People's vote

While gadget enthusiasts are happy buying anything remotely hi-tech, the question arises whether these festival discounts are just a padded-up price or the real thing. We spoke to some DSF shoppers.

Sharon Carvalho is not about to get swayed into making a purchase during the sale. "The sales advertised up to 50 per cent discount on a certain item. I realised that the item in question was the oldest one in stock so it was quite deceitful, really. But I suppose, at the end of the day, these are just marketing tactics," she says.

Lisa George, an accounts manager with a private firm has been on the lookout for a 42" Panasonic plasma television and says she may go in for one that she saw on sale at Carrefour. "The best part is it comes with a free glass table stand which costs between Dh1,500 and Dh2,000 so I think it's a good bargain," she says.

Elaine Fernandes has been looking forward to the DSF. This administration executive hopes to get a good deal on a few gift items for relatives. "I'm planning to get my sister or brother a new camera. It will either be a Fuji or a Sony as both are being offered at good prices now."

Anamika Khanna is a marketing and retail manager for a private firm and has spent some time browsing the shelves to buy an LCD TV for her home. "I think the electronic items on sale certainly offer the customer an opportunity to buy brands at excellent value. We all know that manufacturers keep releasing the advanced versions, so it is a matter of opinion to think of reduced prices as offloading of stocks."

Gipson Mathew, customer service manager, HP, has been doing the rounds to see what is available and feels this is a time when gadget lovers are really spoilt for choice. "I don't think one would get such a good price anywhere at any time," he says.

Nawaz Firdous, a digital technology executive bought an MP3 player. "I got it at knockdown price and it felt great. The only hitch about making a purchase during this time is that the shops get crowded and the sales people find it difficult to talk to each person for more than a few minutes," he says.

TIPS FOR THE ROAD

Try bargaining: While fixed prices are the norm in certain large department stores, most of the shopkeepers elsewhere do expect a fair amount of bargaining. So don't get intimidated by the appearance of the shop because even the most chic places can reduce their prices.

Window-shop: Always make a few trips around town to ensure that you are on the right track and not being taken for a ride.

Keep your mind open: When shopping at sale and discount outlets, it's easy to get caught up in a buying frenzy. Remember to take a step back and look at potential purchases with a discerning eye.

Do a little research first: It's a good idea to learn more about the merchandise you're shopping for by reading a review or a similar guide which has ratings of most consumer electronics.

Guarantee: It's imperative for you to have your international warranty stamped by the dealer. Make sure the equipment is compatible with the voltage and systems in your house. Also, keep the bill with you in case you want to return the goods.

Transport & Duty: Remember that the products you pick up are dutiable if taken to other countries. Most items need to be deftly packed to survive the long haul.