The Good Customer

The Budha Of LKF

Tucked away in an alley off of Hong Kong’s most happening street – Lan Kwai Fong (LKF), is Baby Budha. This small bar/lounge at 18 Wo On Lane, Central is a great place to start or end your night … away from the masses in LKF.

Popularity: 1% [?]

~Homesense/Winners~

 

***This post only pertains to the location at 491 W 8th Ave, Vancouver, BC.***

Rules of the Fitting Room – A Lesson

1. Upon approaching the fitting room area, have all your garments ready to go (otherwise attendant will become impatient)
2. Hang items on rack for attendant (otherwise attendant will order you to do so)
3. Make sure you hang all your items back on the hangers after you finish your fitting (otherwise you will be reprimanded by the attendant)
4. Be sure to wait before you exit – to enable the attendant to count the number of items you are returning (otherwise the attendant will assume you have stolen something and physically stop you from departing the area)

I realize that crime is a problem but customers don’t need to be treated like potential criminals. I believe that the same security measures could be addressed without the tacky militant act.

Lesson for Winners: Treat your customers with a bit of respect. (otherwise your customers will not enjoy their shopping experience)

 The Good Customer has frequented this location a number of times and unfortunately has encountered or observed the same “fitting room tactics” on countless occasions. Although this retailer is not a high end department store, this type of conduct towards their customers is tasteless and undesirable.

Popularity: 1% [?]

~Canada's Shoppurtunity Book~

~Save $25 on next purchase of $100 or more at Roots or Roots 73 Outlet

~Save $10 on next purchase of $40 or more at Indigo/Chapters/Coles

~2 for 1 admission at Cineplex Odeon Theatres 

(all coupons are valid until Nov 11, 2009)

Where : Roots Canada Retail Stores

~Canada's Shoppurtunity Coupons~

Popularity: 1% [?]

~Kim's Mart~

 

What : Kim’s Mart

Why :

• Grocery store in Mount Pleasant specializing in Asian fare.
• Offers fresh produce, seafood, loads of instant noodles, cute confectionary, Korean delicacies, Asian sauces & spices.
• Competive pricing
• Alternative to Chinatown grocers or mega Asian market – T&T

Where :

591 E Broadway
Vancouver, BC V5T
(604) 872-8885

Popularity: 1% [?]

~Coffee Bar at Nespresso Vancouver~

I have been a proud owner of a Nespresso machine for almost a year now. Every time I interact with their employees, whether in person or on the phone, I keep waiting for something to go terribly wrong. Why? …. because the customer service is “too good to be true”!

Since receiving my “Nessie” (yes, I named it) through courier, I have received enough correspondence from Nespresso that would shock Canada Post.

And what is Nespresso sending me?

• New product information
• Coupons or promotions
• Customer satisfaction correspondence

In addition to snail mail, I have received numerous phone calls from Nespresso. Why are they calling me? For feedback! Yes, apparently they care about my thoughts. By focusing on clients individually, Nespresso is able offer personalized service. 

Visiting the one and only Nespresso boutique in Vancouver is reminiscent of a posh lounge. The shiny white interior pegged with the colourful coffee capsules is a treat for the eyes. 

Don’t be surprised if you are invited to try their products when you visit their boutique. They are more than happy to whisk you away to their pristine coffee bar. The sampling of their coffee/espressos is an experience in it’s itself. If you are interested, the personnel are eager to give you an abundance of information. I never knew that there were so many dimensions to an espresso. (Note: This is not like a Costco sample table where the cranky staff member gives you a dirty look for taking 2 crackers.) Never are you rushed or pressured to purchase anything. Perched on the bar stool at the Nespresso coffee bar, sipping your espresso with square of dark chocolate is a sublime experience.

The store personnel possess outstanding product knowledge. Quite amazing… since they have over 16 espresso varieties, several different accessory lines, and a number of machines. I am under the assumption that they all underwent a vigorous training program.

Nespresso constantly tries to engage their clients with new products. From ever-changing limited edition espresso varieties, to their own line of sugars, chocolate, and drink recipe books. What’s next?…. Nespresso cream? Sweet!

PS. I have visited the Nespresso retail store in Hong Kong on several occasions and have received the same level of exceptional service. They truly are a world wide and world class company.

Popularity: 1% [?]

~Nespresso Cups~

What?: ‘Essenza’ Espresso & Lungo set.  Glass cups with resin saucers.

Why?: Great presentation of your caffeinated beverage. Love the tiny textured handles!

How much? : Set of 2 Espresso Cups – $17 usd;  Set of 2 Lungo Cups – $21 usd;  Set of 4 (Espresso & Lungo) Cups – $29 usd

Where? :  Nespresso Boutiques and www.nespresso.com

Popularity: 7% [?]

What? : Japanese Tapas

Why? : Being one of my favourite Izakaya’s in Vancouver, we treated our out-of-town guest to a night of gastronomic pleasure.  To our delight, the restaurant had fresh sea urchin (uni) flown in from Japan that morning.  Yuji’s offers inventive Japanese tapas, fresh seafood and delicate desserts. Never fails to please the palate!

Where? : Yuji’s Japanese Tapas

~Scallop & Habanero Nori Wrap~

~Fresh Uni Sashimi~

~Homemade Cheese Pudding~

 

 

Popularity: 3% [?]

~Bliss Body Butter~

For all you fans of Bliss spa products….

I came across this “duo set” from Sephora. Apparently the duo package was put together for the products’ 10th anniversary.

In the US, each body butter tube sells for $35 each. The duo package sells for $49…. so, a savings of $21.

In Canada, each body butter tube sells for $37 each. The duo package sells for $64…. so, a savings of $10. (why do the Canadians get the short end of the stick?)

If this is a staple in your spa basket, now is the time to stock up! Available fragrances:  Lemon+Sage, Blood Orange+White Pepper, Naked

Popularity: 2% [?]

~Body Butter - Peachy Cream~

What? : Body butter from Soap & Glory – UK-based face and body product brand

Why? : This body butter is unlike the other “butters” on the market. The texture is almost gel-like – not as oily as others. The fragrance of peaches is incredibly fresh and long -lasting…. smells good enough to eat (although it is not reccommended)

Who doesn’t want to be smooth, silky, and delicious?

Where? : in Canada - Shoppers Drug Mart; in US – Target

Popularity: 1% [?]

~Lamb & Eggplant Panini~

What? : Roasted Eggplant and Lamb Panini Sandwich with Side Salad

Why? : Consumed on a “girls day out” lunch. My girlfriend ordered this entree and can’t stop raving about it.

Where? : Enigma Restaurant

Popularity: 13% [?]