Shopping in Savannah
There are several types of stores in Savannah, such as specialty stores, supermarkets, department and convenience stores. Since prices and quality vary, it is helpful to become acquainted with those stores where you can shop most conveniently and economically. Such information is available from people who live here, from newspaper advertisements in Savannah Morning News, and from internet searches.
Most stores operate on a “self-service” basis, where the customer uses one of the baskets or carts provided and select the merchandise desired. It is important to keep the receipt one receives when paying for a purchase, if an item is unsatisfactory, a person can usually return it if the merchandise is still in brand new condition and if the customer still retains the sales receipt.
Newcomers should be aware of some important conditions regarding shopping in the United States; The first is to NEVER put merchandise in one’s pocket or purse. This action is known as “shoplifting,” and is a criminal offense. Being arrested once for shoplifting can result in a court hearing, a fine, and publicity in the newspapers, not to mention problems with the Department of Homeland Security. Another condition to be aware of is that prices in stores are fixed; one cannot bargain for a lower price.
Store Sales
All stores have “sales” periodically when regular merchandise is sold at reduced prices. Sales are advertised in newspapers. Sometimes sale item may not return; the consumer should ask what the specific store policy is about return of sale items. Some items are not returnable, such as bathing suits and underwear.
Sales Tax
Most states charge a sales tax on “luxury”items. Expect to see an entry for tax when you receive a bill for merchandise or for meals in a restaurant.
Coupons
Many shoppers use discount coupons which can be found in newspapers and other news magazines when purchasing items. These offer discounts on brand name products, and are usually valid to use for a specific size and quantity of a product. Most coupons must be used by a certain expiration date. Some coupons are only valid for use at certain stores while others can be used at any store where the product is sold. Some stores offer “double coupon” discounts on particular days, or if a minimum amount of merchandise is purchased.
Shopping Areas
The city’s two malls—the Oglethorpe Mall and the Savannah Mall—are both located on the Southside of the city and are jam packed with department stores and retail chain stores that carry a huge selection of clothing, shoes, cosmetics, accessories and more. The always-busy Oglethorpe Mall boasts a Barnes and Noble and department stores Belk, J.C. Penney, Sears and Macy’s, while the quieter Savannah Mall is home to a Target, Bass Pro Shop and Dillard’s department store.
1. Savannah Centre
If you’re the kind of shopper who likes to browse through rack after rack in search of that killer bargain, then head to Savannah Centre, home of T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, two popular chain stores that are filled with fashionable finds at reasonable prices.
2. Savannah Mall
The only place in town where you can buy a fishing rod, carton of milk and Coach Purse all in one fell swoop, the Savannah Mall has a number of local and national stores that appeal to people with a variety of interests. The two-story mall is anchored by Target (the only one on the city’s Southside), Dillard’s, Bass Pro Shop and Burlington Coat Factory and also features national chains such as Gymboree, Bath and Body Works, Lane Bryant and Victoria’s Secret.
3. Habersham Village
A staple in Midtown for more than three decades, Habersham Village is comprised of four buildings in a two-block radius that feature a number of locally owned businesses. Grocery store Red and White, one of the few remaining local supermarkets in the city, has a great selection and helpful staff. Just across the street from Red and White are camera store Bay Camera Company, liquor store Habersham Beverage and Rite Aid.
4. Oaks Shopping Center
For Downtown-caliber boutiques in a convenient Midtown setting, head to 12 Oaks, a shopping center with several outstanding locally owned stores. BleuBelle Boutique, a favorite among Savannah fashionistas, has a great selection of designer clothes and accessories and Globe Shoe Company, a long-time Savannah favorite, has an extensive selection of designer shoes for both men and women, along with exquisite handbags and accessories. Chefs and bakers will love Kitchenware Outfitters, which sells every kitchen item under the sun and even offers cooking classes. Shoppers can get their coffee fix at Starbucks or grab a bite to eat at Bonefish Grill, Five Guys Burgers, and the Atlanta Bread Company or Cancun Mexican restaurant.
5. City Market
City Market is a favorite among visitors and locals alike. An ode to the original City Market, which was used by farmers and traders in the 18th century to sell their goods, the open-air market has a little bit of something for everyone. City Market is home to several art galleries, including the A.T. Hun Gallery, Jim Pennington Fine Art, and Thomas Kinkade Gallery, along with several smaller galleries and artists who have space in the market’s Art Center. In addition to great shops, City Market also has a number of places to grab a light snack, sweet treat or hearty meal.
6. Oglethorpe Mall
If you’re looking for one-stop shopping, there’s no better place in Savannah than the Oglethorpe Mall. Anchor stores include J.C. Penney, Macy’s, Sears and Belk, all of which offer a huge selection of clothing, shoes, handbags and jewelry, items for the home, beauty products and more. Popular chain stores include Barnes and Noble, Gap, Old Navy, Express, Hollister Co., Charming Charlie, ALDO, Gymboree, Forever 21, Bath and Bodyworks and more. Kids will have plenty to keep them occupied between the free soft play area and the carrousel and train in the food court, which kids can ride for a small fee.
This information courtesy of Amy Pine’s blog.