Indonesia is a country with a unique and unique culture . From here you can bring amazing items and crafts that will remind you of the journey. Souvenirs in Indonesia are cheap, but this does not negate their quality. If you travel with a group and a guide, there is time for organized shopping, then keep in mind that prices will be 2-3 times more expensive. It is better to walk yourself along the trade rows, fairs and shops.
Features of shopping in Indonesia
The main rule of Asian markets is bargaining. For sellers this kind of entertainment. Sometimes they specially put a high price to attract attention to the goods. The passion of the buyer often leads to the fact that traders are ready to give their goods for a pittance. Therefore, be sure to bargain, and be able to buy unique products at low prices.
Indonesians are skilled craftsmen. In large cities and villages on the islands, they make amazing things. Men are mainly engaged in wood carving, and women - painting. Each product is special, because they are all made by hand.
What to buy in Indonesia?
The most popular purchases for tourists are:
- Souvenirs made of wood. The local masters are known for their skillful wood carving, so on the streets you will find numerous traders of wooden figurines. Indonesians like figurines in the form of cats and even put them at their wedding as a symbol of eternal love and harmony. The cost of such a gizmo can vary from $ 1 to $ 20 depending on the size and ornament. Most souvenirs made of wood in Indonesia are made in Bali .
- Fabrics. Indonesian masters use the batik technique for painting the fabric, which means "a drop of wax". With her help paint silk. The main products are dresses, scarves, ties, scarves. Very beautiful fabric can be purchased in Jakarta in the Pasar Beringharjo market. Indonesians create a hand-made fabric with the use of gold and silver. It's called singlet. From it sew solemn outfits, for example, for a wedding.
- Wicker furniture. She in Indonesia is considered a work of art. Furniture is made from palm branches, grapevines and rattan. Products are beautiful and durable. Wicker interior items are better to buy on the islands , where prices start at $ 20. In large cities, the same products can cost 10 times more expensive.
- Jewelry. A good gift that can be brought from Indonesia, will be a decoration. Prices for products from precious metals here are different from domestic and European. On the streets of Indonesia there are many author's shops, where decorations are sold in a single copy. Also, the buyer can order his own product, and the jeweler will make it on the spot. In addition to jewelry, Indonesians make silverware.
- Cosmetics. Cosmetics will be a useful souvenir from Indonesia. But to her choice is to be taken seriously. In local markets, you will find many shops selling cheap oils, creams, shampoos, blends and incenses better. Experienced tourists are advised to purchase them in stores with SPA-centers. A specialist in such a store will give you advice and conduct an allergy test. But the products bought in the market can cause serious health problems up to allergic reactions.
- Products. In Indonesia, one of the most expensive coffee in the world is produced - Luvak. It is collected by hand in small portions. The price starts at $ 50 per 100 g. Also, you can bring a gift from Indonesia jasmine tea and honey, which is not at all like the domestic one and resembles a thick cream. If you decide to buy spices and fruits, then it is better to go to any local market. Fruits buy slightly immature - so they will not deteriorate in flight.
- Clothing. Indonesia is a great place for shopping. Here you can buy shoes and clothes from local designers. Talisa House, Biyan, Ghea and Sebastian's, Ali Charisma, Ferry Sunarto - these brands are not replicated in Europe, so you have a chance to buy a unique item. But be prepared that Indonesians sew clothes for local residents, so often it is small in size.
The cheapest shopping center in Jakarta is located on Malioboro street and carries the same name. Here you can, for example, buy good jeans for $ 5. In other large shopping centers, European clothing is offered at appropriate prices.