From East to West, here are some of the most talked about shopping destinations of the world
They are the new-age breed. They acquire brands as if there is no tomorrow. From mobile phones, iPods, latest fashion to the newest gizmos in the market – anything and everything is welcome to this generation. They love to travel and hop, and they are willing to spend a fortune if the product caters to their eclectic tastes. You like shopping too, don’t you? We have to admit that between women and shopping there is a close connection – probably the wallet which women always feel the need to empty. If you don’t know which are some of the famous shopping destinations in the world, here are some of the top places where you can splurge your money in style.
Hong Kong
Where: The Landmark Hong Kong Shopping Mall. Despite having a multitude of outlets to choose from, picking up from the best shopping mall in Hong Kong is easier than you might think. The Landmark Hong Kong Shopping Mall provides for an ultimate shopping experience, featuring a who’s who of fashion’s heavy hitters, including Calvin Klein, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Apart from housing Hong Kong’s Harvey Nichols Store, it also has one of the swankiest hotels in town – The Landmark Mandarin. Even if you can’t afford the prices, it’s definitely worth a bit of window shopping. Tip: Want a Hong Kong shopping experience that won’t melt your credit card? LAB Concept in Admiralty is a trendy departmental store that specialises in new-age fashion. The 64,000sq. ft. space has cutting-edge products to offer in books, fashion, music, cosmetics, and offers a funky alternative to the glitzy, expensive Hong Kong malls.
Singapore
Where: Orchard Road There is practically something for every shopper in Singapore, from international brands to uniquely Singaporean products, stretches of world-class shopping malls, to outlet stores, each offering a wide array of choices to choose from. For the latest fashion trends, check out Orchard Road – Singapore’s famous shopping street – or take your pick from the diverse international brands that can be found in the Marina Bay Area. If you’re looking for more cultural finds, dive into the districts of Kampong Glam, Little India and Chinatown to discover a treasure trove of ethnic products, jewellery, textiles, antiques and more. Tip: If you’re looking to buy electrical goods, one of Chinatown’s various shopping malls is a good place to find barter-friendly shop owners, who can offer competitive prices.
London
Where: Bond Street We all know that London is quite expensive, this is why we recommend travelling there during sales. Bond Street has many luxury shops, such as the “Shoe King,” Jimmy Choo, Gucci or Hermes. The Royal Exchange is another great place to go shopping. It is a building that hosts many famous branded shops and restaurants. Tip: No shopping trip to London is complete without a visit to Carnaby Street, the pedestrianised trip that made London swing in the ‘60s. Here, you will find kitschy tourist shops and top-notch clothing stores in equal measure.
Paris
Where: Champs Elysees Boulevard The most prominent shopaholic destination of Paris is the Champs Elysees Boulevard. Here, you will find reputable brands, refined cafes and also the largest Louis Vuitton store in the world. Every Friday, the famous Lafayette Galleries organise impressive fashion shows for tourists interested in news from the fashion world. Tip: The first arrondissement that houses Louvre-Tuileries is quintessential Paris, with the Louvre Museum, Palais Royale and Tuileries Gardens all within snapping distance of each other.
New York
Where: 5th Avenue Who doesn’t wish to shop on 5th Avenue, the famous street full of magazines? You will find stores like Prada, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Chanel, and if you’re lucky enough to find discounts, you will surely enjoy your shopping sessions even more. There are also plenty of cheap hotels and motels, where you can stay during the night and save money that you will eventually spend on clothes or gadgets. Tip: If you’re into vintage, second-hand bargains or just something uniquely “NooYawk,” head to the Brooklyn Flea – an open-air market in the hipster-tastic suburb of Williamsburg. A walk back into Manhattan over Brooklyn Bridge is pretty spectacular too.