Forget relaxing on the beach, trying a spot of windsurfing or even checking out the local museums – why not hit the shops and markets instead?! If you’re a confirmed shopaholic then these destinations will be right up your street. Arm yourself with your credit card, comfortable shoes and a shopping partner for those second opinions;
1. Hong Kong, China – Famed for cheap electronics and gadgets, Hong Kong also offers serious shoppers a multitude of street markets held both day and night, huge shopping malls that cater for all budgets and designer boutiques for those unique pieces. Jade, silk and the very latest electronic toys are the must-buys in Hong Kong. The local designers William Tang and Vivienne Tam are popular and for the more budget friendly, head to Stanley Market to pick up Chinese artwork and porcelain vases.
2. Buenos Aires, Argentina – The city of Buenos Aires is home to Argentina’s fashion elite who shop downtown, aka Microcentro, in Calle Florida and Calle Lavalle streets. Here you will find both small independent boutiques and chain stores to satisfy those cravings for shopping. If you’re after the latest Cartier and Armani pieces then take a trip to the Recoleta area of the city. Great buys when in Buenos Aires are leather items, especially when you check out the leather district for local bargains.
3. London, UK – When in London and especially if the local exchange rate is on your side, you can pick up some shopping bargains. Gentlemen can head to Savile Row in Mayfair for the finest bespoke suit making service and Jermyn Street in St James for tailored shirts and other luxury items. Ladies can browse the boutiques of Covent Garden and visit world famous Camden Market for those essential one-off finds. Oxford Street is a mecca for the larger chain stores including Topshop for the latest fashion must-haves and Selfridges for high quality designer outfits. And for the perfect presents to take home – pick up some foodie gifts from Harrods or Fortnum and Mason of course!
4. Bangkok, Thailand – Thanks to the local skytrain, Bangkok is pretty easy and quick to navigate and the line goes as far north as the Chatuchak Market. Held on weekends the Chatuchak Market attracts some 200,000 visitors each day to the 27 acre site! Comfortable shoes, small denomination notes and a sense of fun are a must here! And the market is mostly frequented by locals – ideal to bag a bargain on silk pieces, antique wood carvings and clay handicrafts. The center of Bangkok also features many modern indoor shopping malls with plenty of choice with local and international brands on offer. I like the MBK Center which has a local indoor market near the top floor and a giant food court for a quick bite.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark – The city of Copenhagen hosts the talents of the local Scandinavian designers where their latest pieces can be purchased. The pedestrian-only shopping streets of Købmagergade and Strøget feature high-end international designers such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Prada. Locally the huge department stores Det Ny Illum and Magasin du Nord are great for everything-under-one-roof. And don’t forget a visit to one of Copenhagen’s most famous brands – Bang & Olufsen – for the latest exclusive audio systems.
6. New York City, USA – Travel light and leave plenty of space in your suitcase as New York City has it all! From discount fashions to chic designer outfits, electronic gadgets and games and rare books – head to New York. The city is famous for the boutiques on Madison Avenue and giant department stores such as Macys, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdales. For an interesting mix of smaller stores and individual pieces check out SoHo and NoLita.
