Boracay on a budget can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. The locals understand how tourism is a booming industry in the island, and they understand that travelers spend more when they are given the best offers. Other than the beach, locals know that travelers also get excited over bargain hunting in Boracay. Although row after row of shops and stalls seem to offer similar things for sale, a good eye and some extra information just might make your budget travel to Boracay fulfilling. We have picked out for you 3 of the best places to do bargain hunting in Boracay. With products that are different from neighboring shops and stalls, they offer the best value for your money.

Plazoleta Shopping Plaza

Better known as Plazoleta, this group of shops is conveniently located along Boracay's White Beach. This is a favorite among regular budget travelers of Boracay as it offers a good mix of local wares--from exquisite artworks to handcrafted musical instruments, and even fine native jewelry.

Some days, the Plazoleta is transformed to host exhibits for local artists, or to accommodate musical performances that make use of native instruments--free entertainment that is one of a kind for those in Boracay on a budget.

Famous interior designers and architects also do their bargain hunting in Boracay. They make it a point to drop by the Plazoleta and catch up on the thriving local art scene. Artists from the city also visit the Plazoleta to get their unique supply of sarongs and those cool native anklets.

D*Mall

D*Mall is a convenient favorite for those in Boracay on a budget. Most of the day, young people mill around, hopping from shop to shop and taking an occasional break in one of the many restaurants within D*Mall.

Almost everything in D*Mall is priced to suit budget travelers of Boracay. A variety of shops concentrated in one area make it a staple for those who are bargain hunting in Boracay. In D*Mall, you will find stalls of Lonely Planet, famous for its unique hand-painted shirts. There are also sports shops that sell diving gear and equipment for beach sports. Souvenir shops dot the perimeter, selling key chains and sand art in cute bottles.

Keep an eye out for a store that offers custom-made rubber slippers. Design your own and they'll cut out the rubber pattern for your slippers. A pair usually goes for Php 150. You can have your bags or shoes repaired for only Php 10. Definitely a must-visit when you go bargain hunting in Boracay.

The Original Talipapa

Located just before Station 3, the Original Talipapa was razed to the ground a few years ago. With the help of the local government and residents of the island, the Original Talipapa is back to being the home of Boracay souvenirs--a special haven for budget travelers in Boracay. Focusing on Boracay souvenirs, the Original Talipapa offers the following:

• Lanterns
• Keychains
• Souvenir shirts, board shorts, and caps
• Souvenir sarongs

The key to getting a good bargain is to go there as early as you can. They're generous with discounts when you are their first customer of the day. Keep in mind that buying several items from one stall can also get you that discount. As a general tip, bring loose change and lots of water to make bargain hunting in Boracay fun and stress free.