Who Wants to Win a $50 Apple Gift Card?

*Update*

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you so much for stopping by and entering.  The winner is Brandy.  Congratulations!

I am can be a shopaholic.  : )  Fortunately I am very good at finding the best bargains.  I always use coupons and buy things on sale.  And…I always shop around, particularly when it’s a significant purchase. But it’s not enough to get the best price.  I also want real feedback from people who have purchased a product so I can make an educated decision as to the best brand, model, etc.

Ciao is a new online shopping community and features thousands of accurate, honest reviews from real people.  Ciao knows that real customers want real information to make purchasing decisions.  On the site you’ll find reviews on everything from cell phones, laptops, and MP3 players to movies and beauty products.  What’s great about the site is that you’ll find reviews on the latest and most popular products.  I personally want to get more information on whether or not I should get an iPhone or a different smartphone.  If you become a member, Ciao will pay you $1.00 for every qualifying review.

They’ve just started posting video reviews which is a nice addition since I always like to see a product in use when possible.  Membership to Ciao is free and allows you the opportunity to connect with other users and customize your reviews, create wish lists and gift guides, and keep track of the products you like or dislike.

Win It!  One very lucky reader will win a $50 Apple Gift Card.  Fortunately for me it’s coming straight from the company!  : )  The giveaway rules are a little different so please pay attention.  First you’ll have to become a member of Ciao (it’s free, remember?).  Then you need to visit the site and write a review on a product of your choice (it’s painless, I promise).

Follow this easy three-step process:

1.  Enter the product you’d like to review (i.e. iPhone)

2. Click on “write a review” and share your experience using this product as well as rating, with the Ciao community of shoppers.  Be sure to do a full-length review.

3.  Join the Ciao community, start connecting with other shoppers and earn money for your reviews.  You can even upload a video review if you’re ambitious.

4.  Once you’ve completed these steps and have written a review (120 of your own words), post your Ciao username and a link to your review in the comments section on this blog post.

I’m really jealous that I can’t enter the contest myself looking forward to reading your reviews!  Deadline to enter is November 6, 2008 at 10 pm PST.  US residents only.  Comments not following the rules will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Profuse thanks to Ciao and the Family Review Network for this review opportunity!

Note: this contest is also open to current Ciao.com members, just be sure to include a link to a new review to qualify for this giveaway.