Before I came to China:
The only thing I knew about the country was that Jackie Chan was a citizen. I had an island mentality and while I knew about cities like Beijing I knew nothing else about it.
Back home:
In my home country I got into anime and pop culture. There are several comic shops selling action figures back home, but at the prices they stock it at, I decided that I’d much rather travel than buy figurines that cost a fortune.
I came to China:
One of the reasons I came to China was for the new experiences, and while I got that I made several incredible discoveries.
Discoveries:
#1 They sell action figures at the cinema.
If I was a kid, I’d throw a tantrum when I left the cinema with my parents so that they would buy me an expensive Ironman figurine to shut me up (genius!)
#2 They sell various kinds of figurines at markets
These not only match the quality of the figures sold online, but they are also much cheaper.
#3 The power of bargaining
If you get a constipated expression on your face and tell the seller that it costs too much, and of course the “NONONO! -turn around and leave” (thank you Luke) you end up having money for a burger and coke, too.
Pandora’s box:
While I waited for one of my classes in September, I saw one of my new Chinese friends browsing a site called Taobao for playboy shoes, (I thought they only made magazines and movies?) she soon showed me that you can buy anything on the site. At first I thought, this won’t be good for my finances, (western mentality) but soon I discovered several new things.
Discoveries 2.0
#1 Bootleg is a word more suited for shoes.
#2 Chinese toymakers are really smart.
#3 The stores back home are ripping people off.
The reason:
#1 Bootlegs surpass the quality of the original products in most cases.
The paint is shinier, or grittier depending on your taste.
#2 They actually improve the product and make the packaging more interesting.
It basically means that your hulk figurine will be able to make you coffee and mow the lawn in a few years’ time.
#3 It costs a fraction of the price!
More money for food!
The conclusion:
This is China baby, and made in China is the new made in England.