Page 57 - Mongolia & the Gobi Desert

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there are export laws in place, so some items cannot leave the country. Make sure the shop
understands that you’ll be taking the item out of the country and that they provide the correct
documentation to do so.

China

Throughout China, you’ll discover wonderful buys on a variety of gifts like chopsticks,
signature seals (which are known as “chops”), cloisonné, Mao hats, and silk scarves. These
goods—and much, much more—are available at local stores. You can pay with local currency
or credit cards. Occasionally shops will take U.S. currency or traveler’s checks, but this is
becoming more and more rare.

One thing to note about shopping in China is that bargaining is allowed (even expected) at
open-air booths/street vendors, but at these types of businesses you must pay with cash only.
Beware of counterfeit RMB given by street vendors as change—pay in exact change whenever
possible, and you’ll avoid being cheated.

Russia

Among the best buys in Russia are black caviar (sold in small sealed jars), the traditional
Russian wooden nest of dolls (matryoshkas), hand-embroidered shirts and blouses, balalaikas,
samovars, watches (Raketa brand and military watches), chess sets, pure wool scarves, lacquer
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small Christmas and Easter gifts made by Russian craftsmen for sale throughout the year that
make great unique presents for friends.

To bring back a little of Russia with you, you have some traditional items to choose from. The
blue and white Russian porcelain Gzhel is used for vases, table settings, some delicate toys,
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Ukrainian style shirts with intricate embroidery. Palekh boxes (brightly colored and lacquered
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jewelry, and some churches allow you to purchase Russian Orthodox religious items.

U.S. Customs Regulations & Shipping Charges

For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs &
Border Protection. Their website, www.cbp.gov has the answers to the most frequently asked
questions. Or you can call them at 1-877-227-5511.
The top three points to know are:

• At time of writing, your personal duty-free allowance is $800 for items brought with
you. Items totaling more than $800 are subject to duty fees.

• Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. Even when
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shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties—not

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