"Gucci, Prada, Vuitton". The moment you come across small women mumbling these words under their breath like some sort of mantra (or a crazy person), you know you've reached the right place. This is Canal Street, and although you probably won't find this place listed in many New York City tourist books, it is a vital part of a true NYC experience.
It all starts the minute you emerge from the underground subway; you are greeted by absolute mayhem. Hundreds of people fill the streets, little shops the size of closets line each side, and vendors with large suitcases and duffel bags sit on the sidewalk. This is the place where knock-off items such as purses, sunglasses, jewellery and the likes are sold. Along with any NYC souvenir you could possibly want.
I love bartering with the shop keepers for the best price on the items I am purchasing, even though I know they are probably robbing me blind. I love the excitement and throb of the crowd and following little ladies through back allies and streets so they can show me what they have to sell. It probably sounds pretty sketchy, but if you ever visit NYC, you need to make a stop on Canal Street. I think you will get hooked. Just make sure you barter, it’s all part of the experience.
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