Just as you're heading to your departure gate, something catches your attention: the heady waft of a floral perfume, pyramidal stacks of chocolate, a gleaming display of designer apparel.
It's hard to turn your head away from the alluring world of duty-free shopping. And many don't -- the industry made a robust $39 billion in 2010, according to the Sweden-based Generation Research -- up 13% from the previous year.
But among all the designer accessories, cosmetics, and top-shelf liquor at duty-free stores in airports and cruise and ferry terminals, are there actually any bargains out there?
Some say it outright: "Duty-free shopping is great for topping off purchases or last-minute gifts," says Suzy Gershman, author of Frommer's Born to Shop guides. "But at the end of the day, you're not saving much money."
Though there's a general consensus of buyer beware, Americans can still find some savings if they know how to shop right. We surveyed major categories of duty-free goods around the world to compare prices, selection, and value. Here's what to expect.
Photo Caption: A duty-free shop at Naha Airport in Okinawa, Japan, beckons a captive audience. U.S. Customs allows duty exemptions on purchases of up to $800 (more if you're coming from the Caribbean), with a tobacco limit of 200 cigarettes and one liter of alcohol. Photo by Hyougushi/Flickr.com
