Can anyone tell me where I can buy in Kunming large electrical appliances and furniture using my American Express Card, its becoming more and more difficult to find merchants that can take AMEX.

I'm looking for a larger capcity washing machine. The largest I've seen is 10kg. It would be wonderful to wash several loads and then be done. I've been here 11 years and getting tired of washing such little quanties at a time. Any advise?

Why don't you ask those 'Dry Cleaner' places where they got their washing machines.

@Frankn
You can look for appliances on taobao.com - from the humble crappy washing machines all the way up to the industrial strength commercial laundry machines (that can wash comforters) (or even dry cleaning machines if you're game). AMEX is always a problem because of the surcharge - but you MAY be able to recharge alipay using amex (but doubtful). Amazon.cn used to take amex - but not so sure anymore.

IF you use online shopping - just be sure you or a friend can spot the fakes from the genuine virtual store fronts.

We used to try to support the local shop keepers - but the moment they hear our non-yunnan accents - they jack up the prices from 30-50% - so we just walk away. Taxi drivers (thieving bandits) try the same thing on a regular basis - anything to steal another ¥2-5.

The PAIN with mail order for LARGE appliances and furniture - they usually ship to the humungo warehouses just out of town - so you've gotta drag your butt down there - CHECK that the gorillas haven't dented, smashed, or otherwise damaged your merchandise - then go find a delivery truck AND movers to drag your stuff up the stairs (or elevator if you're living in the more nouveau joints) and into the apartment/home. Usually runs ¥100-200 delivered door to floor.

But I digress. Taobao (to the casual observer) doesn't accept AMEX. Alipay MAY - but I'm couldn't find it.