SHOEpper's Guide 3: Cybergate Mall, Tung Chung, Hong Kong

Recently, I've been getting a lot of queries about my favorite shopping areas in Hong Kong. It seems that most people nowadays no longer equate summer with the local sands and seas.

Instead, most people have seen things my way: why pay much to get sunburned?

Better to indulge in retail therapy instead. :)

After all, the goods last longer than a fake tan. Hehe.

Anyway, going back to my story.

I recently went back to Hong Kong for my retail therapy. After a couple of months working my ass off, I think I deserved it.

Actually I needed it to keep me sane. And prevent me from getting burned out.

Like a hound that can sniff its way home, I found myself navigating effortlessly towards my shopping haven of choice a few hours after settling in my hotel at Dorsett Seaview at Yau Ma Tei (which proved to be in a very strategic location, as it is just a stone throw away from the Temple Street Night Market, the Jade Market and a station away from the Ladies Market at Mong Kok).

Armed with my Octopus Card (a one-card-for-all transportation needs), my little yellow bag (to carry my personal stuff) and my chosen pair of walkers (Zara Espadrilles this time), I braved through the busy streets of Hong Kong and found my way to Tung Chung (after 3 train exchanges), where the Cybergate Mall was located.

For those of you who are not yet familiar with the Cybergate Mall, it is actually an establishment located near the airport, which houses a bunch of outlet stores of different brands. Easily accessible via the Tung Chung MTR Line, the Cybergate Mall has become a favorite destination of both tourists and locals alike in search of original branded goods for less. Yours truly, included.

For SHOEpaholics like me, the Cybergate Mall is heaven on earth. Located within it are outlet stores of some of my favorite shoe brands like:

Adidas

Nike

Puma

New Balance 

Among others.

At a glance though you might be wondering what would set these stores apart from the rest. Well for one, they offer a bigger variety of styles per category, exclusive to the region (some of the pairs I got were exclusively launched in HK, thus none available here in the Philippines. The  chance of seeing someone with an identical pair is when that person  a.:) knows my favorite SHOEpping destination by heart b.) is an avid reader of my blog or c.) robbed me of my precious possessions. Haha! 

The displays were quite attractive and sizes were readily available. 

\

Also these stores offer very good deals, relatively cheaper than the local market place. Some even offer rebates, regardless if you pay in cash or card. Tip: Pay using your credit card as the conversion rate is lower. 

Winner Much. 

And the best part: This year-long sale of goods gets even better during June to August, when Hong Kong officially declares its sale months. Up to 80% off! 

Apart from my favorite shoe brands, other retail stores  can also be found in the Cybergate Mall like Giordano, Esprit, CK, Samsonite, Swatch, Levis, Body Shop, Polo and a bunch of other famous brands.

I can't wait to see you again soon Cybergate Mall. :) Just in time for my 30th birthday. :)

SHOE Adventures Cycle 1: Sueno De Espadrilles @ Kazam Kebab House

I've been invited a couple of times by different clients to blog about their products.

At first I was quite hesitant since I'm a shoe blogger so one cannot really expect me to do reviews for a new cellphone model or be a guinea pig for a skin care brand. 

But recently though, I had a change of heart. I actually started entertaining the thought of marrying my passion for shoes with other products---if and only if I  a.) like the product b.) use the product c.) am friends with the person asking me to try out his/her product.

Indeed friendship can do so much.

You see, my long-time client and friend Joey, invited me to try out Kazam, his wife Geri's business venture.

Hmmm. A Persian Restaurant. Sosyal. I told myself.

" The food is great and you must definitely try the oxbrain. Simply to die for! "

Because of cholesterol? I silently let the evil thought melt away on its own.

"The kebabs are good as well. Try it. Geri will be there naman."

Ok fine. How can I ever say no to my favorite client since I started my own advertising agency way back in 2006? 

Apart from that, I've always had the liking for Persian food. Keema, shawarma and kebabs have always been in my list of favorites. 

So yes, I did agree to visit his restaurant.

Mentally calculating the days I had before my scheduled visit to the place, I did a research about Persian culture since I want to tailor-fit my outfit to the said occasion.

Prior to the said invitation, being the seemingly dumb blonde, I only associate Persia with either a.) a long-haired cat or b.) a furry rug. 

I found out that Persian culture is highly dominated by colors and woven art. 

Great, we share the love for colors. 

But woven art. Err. I don't think woven shoes are still in fashion.

I remember my grandmother wearing one. But me? 

I would rather eat tons of very spicy keema and ruin my diet than be caught dead wearing such a pair.

I was about to lose hope when I stumbled upon a kiosk at Greenbelt 5 (kung saan bawal daw ang poor people, as stated in the FB pics circulating around. But since my friend Joey and his wife Geri are sosyalin, level dapat. Peace.:) Love you both. :))

Espadrilles....ahhh....love. 

I wasted no time and started checking out the merchandise. 

So cute!!!!! Quirky pairs!!!

My eyes narrowed down to a single pair with a splatter of various bright colors...and woven sides.

Could it be.....yes, you got it! My own  version of Persia ito! Hahaha!

I immediately asked for my size only to find out that all stocks where already out.

But since Lady luck was on my side, I managed to snag a pair that fits perfectly to a T.

And yes, it was the last one. Hehe.

Before I could even ask the sales lady, she blurted what I have been wanting to hear:

" Sir, on sale today. Original price is P2,500, pero now P 995 na lang! "

Music to my ears. So go for the gold!

I got the pair which was placed inside a cocoon-like woven bag. See Persian? Haha. (Seriously though, I read about the brand and it stated that the shoes were actually made in Spain. Pwede na din. Sosyal pa rin. Haha. Level)

Anyway, the much awaited day came and I just decided to wear my new found pair with a plain white shirt and ribbed bottom jeans so that it would pop out with its brilliant colors.

When I finally arrived at Kazam (located strategically at the Mandaluyong Rotonda facing the Cityhall), I was greeted by Geri herself.

The place was very homey. Comfortable. Non-intimidating. Perfect for those in search of a laid back place to unwind afterwork.

In fairness, bagay suot ko, I silently told myself. Tamang arte lang. Haha. :)

I was quite excited to try out the dishes so I immediately ordered the legendary oxbrain and kebab which Joey was raving about.

But of course being the gracious host that she was, Geri offered us bread and Motabal (an eggplant based spread, in lay man's terms).

I like it here na. Hehe.

And when my order finally arrived, I was surprised with the big serving they had. Value for money indeed!

For a moment I just stared at my plate, mentally calculating the calories I have to burn at the gym the following day.

What the heck, by all means, go!

I wasn't wrong. It was all good. Better than most Persian restos I've tried. 

And I'm not saying this because the couple are my friends.

I'm saying this because I mean it. Naks. 

Persian na Persian talaga. Much like my shoes (I need to establish this. Hehe.)

Kidding aside, I found two things in common between my chosen pair of walkers and Kazam:

a.) Value for money

- Big servings, tasty food for Kazam

- At 60% off, my chosen pair was a steal. Aarte pa ba ako?

b.) Comfortable

- Kazam, with its laid-back vibe is the perfect hang-out for those who long for good Persian food in a quaint setting

- The woven in-soles proved to be very comfortable, perfect for the long summer strolls at the mall or the beach

See, I managed to connect everything.:) It was meant to be.:)

For those interested in trying out Kazam's authentic Persian cuisines, check this out: 

Or contact  Kazam at:

Till my next Shoe Adventure! 

Getting a kick out of Kickers: Loving Lyle

Hmmm. I still remember when I first crossed paths with this brand way back in highschool.

I was then a junior at Angelicum school when I chanced upon a pair of bright blue Kickers while shopping for my prom shoes with my mom. 

The said pair was already pricey back then; if I remember it correctly, it costed around P 2,995 during that time (err... late 1990ish) but I managed to persuade my mom into getting me the blue, submarine inspired shoes (actually, I opted to get a cheaper pair for my prom shoes, afterall, it'll only be worn for a night.).

Years passed and still, my fondness for this brand never did falter. Time and again, I would visit the Kickers store to check out its latest releases and how each pair would fit me well.

A few weeks ago, during a sale at the Block at SM North, I chanced upon this dainty pair which I have been eyeing for the longest time. 

It was a pair of  fancy white dress shoes with cute tiffany blue laces. Yes, tiffany blue. For those unfamiliar, check the color palette online.  

I knew in my heart that I wanted it since I first laid my eyes on it a few months back. However, at P 3,995, i found the pair quite expensive. 

Ok, I love Kickers but it only ranks 5th on my favorite brands (subject to change without further notice, haha) so that's why I wasn't willing to spend much on a pair. Not to mention that during the time I saw it, I already finished hoarding several pairs from Adidas. Can't justify purchasing Lyle (the style name), so I had to let go.

Until a few weeks ago. 

Lyle went on sale. At nearly 60% off! 

Yup, got the pair for only P 1,670! Not bad.;)

Without hesitating, I grabbed the pair and asked for my size.

With my beloved fairy god mother on my side, the store had one last pair...of my size.

It was such a serendipitous moment!

I immediately fell in love with Lyle's edgy looks and cute accent laces.

The soft inside cushion provided utmost comfort, which makes it perfect with or without socks on.

Indeed, it was meant to be when the last pair slipped on perfectly.

Here's a picture of me wearing my beloved Lyle proudly.

Indeed, true love never dies. 

For years after, I still get a kick out of Kickers.  Most specially since I fell in love with Lyle. 

Time to SALEbrate: Cardams Waterproof Walkers

Finally, I have ample time to blog.

Yup, been really busy. And that is an understatement.

Add to the fact that it was only this morning that I was able to figure out how to transfer photos from my iphone to my mac. Hehe.

But then again, it feels really good to be back.

You see I took some time off from work last week to finally get my much-needed (and deserved) vacation.

Afterall, all work and no play makes me dull.

On second thought, all work and no SHOEpping kills me.

So before heading to my beach getaway, I decided to drop by SM North Edsa to do some last minute shopping for toiletries.

Earlier this year, I told myself that I won't be getting another pair of walkers until May since I bought several last month.

My mind was willing. But the flesh was weak.

From afar, I saw the huge "sale" sign outside the store.

Cardams. Hmmm.

Sale...hmmm. so what. I was about to move on when I saw a shiny gray pair.

It was made of shiny, waterproof material perfect for the sudden rains that frequent the metro.

The hi-cut design makes it a versatile pair perfect when wearing jeans or shorts.

Quite comfortable as well, despite the paper thin soles.

Like an eagle spotting a prey, I moved towards the pair.

Hmmm. Not bad.

I slowly removed my thumb to reveal the price tag.

I was stunned. I couldn't say a word.

From P 1,499, the price dropped to an amazingly low P 299!!!!!

Without batting an eyelash, I called on the sales clerk and asked for my size.

Voila. It was meant for me indeed as I saw my pedicured feet slip in perfectly. Hehe. Another Cinderella moment.

I held on to my treasured pair with dear life as i practically rushed to the counter.

I barely managed to hear what the poker faced cashier was saying. All I remembered was that I gave her the money and tapped impatiently as I waited for my change.

Finally, what seemed like hours, the lifeless cashier gave me my change and wrapped my purchase.

I gave her the sweetest smile while she gave me, well, a blank stare.

Who cares? I got the pair I wanted.

For so much less.

Now if only I could wear it to the beach.....haha.

Here's a picture of me when I wore it to work yesterday.

Cardams is located at the ground floor of SM North Edsa.

Still on sale as I write this. :)

SHOEpper's Guide 2: CMG Trinoma

Post-Christmas sales.

Simply divine.

I had to muster all of my EQ to keep myself from spending much on shoes before Christmas.

Fortunately, by distracting myself through watching an MMFF Film and the Chinese circus, I was able to brave through Christmas.

And when the 26th of December finally arrived, I was in major SHOEpping mode.

So off I went to yet another one of my favorite shopping destinations: CMG Trinoma.

A stone's throw away from my home, CMG Trinoma is home to some of my favorite shoe brands: Kartel, Frank and Traffic.

What I love about the place is that they regularly have sales...up to 70% off during peak dates. Stocks are readily available, which is quite a rarity in other shoe stores. Very fashion-forward and updated when it comes to shoe styles. Classic ones are also available here though.

The upscale look of the place makes it the perfect haven for branded dress shoes and loafers alike. If you are into smart casual fashion, CMG Trinoma is your mecca.

Designer shoes abound the place. Quite pricey but well worth it.

Shoes and sandals range from P 995 up. The ones I like are priced at P 3,995 up. That is if they aren't on sale.

Patience is the name of the game when shopping here.:)

I recently got a pair of dress shoes (to be blogged soon) on sale which I intend to wear on my first day of teaching (January 11th) . Original price was P 3,595. I got it for P 1,995. But I had to wait for 6 months. Haha. Thank God for serendipity. The long wait was all worth it.

See, I passed the marshmallow test with flying colors. Haha!

CMG Trinoma is located at the 2nd floor of Trinoma Mall beside Aldo shoes, a few stores away from the Adidas Lifestyle Store.

SHOEpper's guide 1: Adidas Outlet Store in Taguig

Come on, sing with me!

"Ain't no mountain high enough...ain't no valley low enough...ain't no river wide enough...to keep me from getting to you babe!!!!"

This hit song serves as another inspiration of mine when braving the entire metro (and beyond), in search of the perfect pair of shoes (and pants, and shirts, and accessories and....the list goes on. I'm sure you get what I mean).

For a SHOEpaholic like me, no outlet store is too far from my QC home.

Even if this one is in Taguig. Yeah baby....no mountain too high. Hehe.

One of my favorite outlet stores is the Adidas Outlet Store at the Petron Gas Station in front of the Cypress Towers in Taguig. Quite near Market! Market! and just right after Mc Kinley Hills. Better if you drive though. Commuting can be such a hassle in that area. Well, unless you take a cab that is. :)

With a wide selection of goods from trendy shoes to apparels with unbelievably affordable prices, this has been my favorite bi-monthly destination (paydays...ok, sometimes, err...weekly...so kill me.). The look and feel of the store is very much inviting: well-lit and with very helpful staff members. I also like the way the merchandises were arranged: far from the usual "warehouse-turned-ukay" look of other stores.

On the first floor are the performance apparels and shoes, while the lifestyle section can be found on the second floor. There's an Adidas brand for everyone here as the outlet store also has some kiddie shoes and apparel, apart from the usual men's and women's line. 

Discounts wise, the Adidas outlet store offers as much as 50% off on selected items. No need to wait for paydays to enjoy great sales like this. You can even find several pairs of the latest shoe models at so much less. 

The long drive will definitely be worth it. Imagine the savings you will get.:) Not to mention the hard to find stuff which can still be bought from there. 

Here's a preview of the stuff i bought last sunday. During the first hour....

And when I finally called it a day. :) 

Ok so what I got were 3 pairs of shoes (All Lifestyle Brands) and a couple of shirts (Fancy round necks). Ok, Plus a pair of bright lifestyle khakis and a pair of 3/4 lifestyle shorts. Promise. That's all. 

Wait, before you raise your eyebrows, I managed to close a one-year deal with a client so I was just rewarding myself. So I think that justifies everything. :)

Bear with me. Hehe.