Whoever said money can’t buy happiness didn’t know where to go shopping. Nitasha Panda lists eight popular shopping destinations across the world that will leave you with bags full of happiness.
1. Fifth Avenue, New York City
Hailed as one of the most popular shopping destinations of the world, Fifth Avenue is in mid-town Manhattan where one can score a Blair Waldorf Henri Bendel headband or a Serena van der Woodsen shift dress. It is located between the 49th and 60th streets and is home to the world’s top luxury boutiques.
Walk down Fifth Avenue and you are sure to find something – including a lot of things that fits your wallet: Tiffany’s for a trinket, Prada, Versace, Bergdorf-Goodman to feast on, FAO Schwarz for kids, suits for men at Brooks Brothers. Saks Fifth Avenue is a must-go-to.
Note: While I said that you will find something that fits your budget, Fifth Avenue is considered to be one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world.
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2. The Magnificent Mile, Chicago
The Magnificent Mile in Chicago is located at North Michigan Avenue, just two blocks off Lake Michigan and has earned its name on this list due to its beautiful setting and of course, the shopping sprees that wait. Retail therapy is at its glorious best here what with shopping czars such as Neiman Marcus, Lord & Taylor, Gucci, Brooks Brothers and Hermés.
There is a huge buffet of stores one is served up, and you can take your pick from fashion, food, décor; anything else you can possibly think of. With approximately 2.6 million square feet of retail space housing about 460 stores, two museums, over 400 restaurants, what more can one ask for! So, whip out the plastic at the Magnificent Mile and shop in style.
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3. Rodeo Drive, Los Angeles
The famous Rodeo Drive just had to make it to the list. A lot smaller in size than its counterparts, Fifth Avenue and the Magnificent Mile, – this street is huge on the glamour quotient. Swanky boutiques, designer stores, exclusive limited editions and Hollywood is what Rodeo Drive is about. So, don’t go into shock if you spot Jennifer Aniston or Katie Holmes picking out the same dress as you! Shop, splurge and spoil yourself thoroughly.
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4. Bond Street, London
Bond Street, London, stands for all the elegance and modishness that is England. Since the 18th century, this high street has been the epitome of luxury shopping.
Located in the heart of London in the West End district, Bond Street now combines Old Bond Street and New Bond Street. The world’s most renowned designers have their spaces here – Louis Vuitton, Versace, Armani, Chanel, Prada, Ralph Lauren and the list goes on. Tiffany’s and Cartier for those who like some shimmer and for those who like to live like the Queen, drop in at the Queen’s official jewellers, Asprey’s. Check out good old Brit brands like Burberry and Mulberry.
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5. Orchard Road, Singapore
Among the most expensive shopping streets in the East is Singapore’s Orchard Road.
Orchard Road is a huge tourist hangout and also the hub of Singapore. Shopping malls on both sides and stores that stash all things voguish, Orchard Road has come a long way from being an area of pepper farms and fruit orchards. With about 22 malls to choose from, it is a shoppers’ delight!
The huge malls, eccentric little stores, sidewalk cafes make shopping here a wholesome experience. Tangs or CK Tangs is a popular landmark here while Paragon is home to all the designer brands like Gucci, Mui Mui, Prada, Coach, Zara and Forever 21 for the chic shopper.
6. Via Monte Napoleone, Milan
How can you go to Milan and not walk down the Via Monte Napoleone, home to the best designers in the world? This street is one of the most up-to-the- second strips in Europe. It dates all the way back to 1804 to the age of Napoleon. Family shops used to be famous on this stretch but all that’s changed now.
All the fashionistas of the world – from European royalty to Hollywood divas shop at the stylish and exclusive boutiques on this avenue. Roberto Cavalli, Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, Prada are just a few of the names that have their flagship stores in this fashion capital. A fat wallet will really help here but then it doesn’t cost much to take a stroll and breathe in all that fashion.
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7.Rue du Faubourg St-Honore, Paris
Rue du Faubourg sits pretty just behind the Elysee Palace, home to the French President. Known to be one of the most chic avenues of the world, it is discreet and could be easily missed but for the elegant awnings that spell out the names of all the top designers on this planet.
Chanel, Gucci, Valentino, Louis Vuitton, Ferragamo, Valentino and so many more can be found on this trés-chic street. Lanvin and Hermés have their flagship stores on this street, but alongside the big names, one also spots adorable little boutiques stacking inexpensive knick-knacks. So amble along cheerily, and take in the latest fashion has to offer.
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8.Bahnhoftstrasse, Zurich
It is said, Zurich is Bahnhofstrasse and vice versa. The three words that aptly describe Bahnhoftstrasse are elegant, exclusive and expensive.
Situated in the centre of the city, this boulevard is dotted with designer shops from Cartier to Armani, Chanel to Louis Vuitton, and Hermés to Prada. But fret not, you also have a Mango and an H&M, so you are sure to find something to suit your pocket. Jelmoli is the largest department store on this stretch.
No trip to Switzerland is complete without buying some chocolate. Stop by at the world famous Café Sprungli and pick up a box to take home.
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