Saturday, May 22, 2010

Going to APO Market

One place I like to go to from time to time is the APO market in Angeles City proper. The place is like a large flea market. Plan to get there between 7-8am as it gets too crowded to my liking after that time. I like to be out of there at the latest 930am. It is opened only on Fridays but there are lots of bargains to be had. Of course the old saying “you get what you pay for” remains true. However sometimes you do find items of better quality at decent prices. You can usually find anything and everything ranging from clothes, plants, CD and almost anything else you can imagine. Anytime I went there on a mission to find something I needed or wanted I always found what I was looking for.

While in the market area remain vigilant for pickpockets, expect to be canvassed by beggars and to get pushed by the crowds especially later morning. You can usually negotiate prices or haggle with the sellers. Because foreigners are all considered rich some sellers may try and charge more when prices are not already indicated on items that may interest you. I let my Filipina spouse do the buying and the haggling.

The market itself is located near the Apo Chapel, because the market commemorates Apo Day, part of the Apo Fiesta held every October. This is a religious event. You can get to the market via jeepney on route to Henson road or by trike if you want to pay more. Forget taxis here they charge unbelievable fares unlike what you find in Cebu and other areas of the Philippines. If you travel by jeepney always watch your pockets although I admit I have never had a problem. Some friends have had wallets, cell phones, ipod players and the like snatched from them in a flash with the thief jumping out of the jeepney and running away before they even realized what is happening, so play safe.

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