The idea of going on holiday specifically to shop is possibly out of the reach of most of us, but that isn’t necessarily what the concept involves. Going shopping in a foreign country can actually – whether you actually buy anything or not – be one of the quickest, most complete ways of understanding a culture. Whether streets, malls or markets, the sheer volume of people interacting and going about their daily business is fascinating to behold. So here are three of the best shopping destinations:
The Classic: Paris
Shopping in Paris has long been the experience by which other destinations are measured, and for the sheer joy of strolling from shop to shop surrounded by fantastic architecture, sights and sounds, a stroll along the Champs Elysees, Avenue Montaigne or inside the department stores of the Boulevard Haussmann you cannot beat Paris. Hands-down. Is it the single best place to actually acquire items? It’s pricey and still somewhat smaller than many other major world-cities.
What esteem you hold Paris in depends ultimately on whether the experience of shopping outweighs what you can shop for. That said, Paris is a fashion capital and a definite must-see.
The Quirkiest: Tokyo
Hello oranges, meet apples: when we say ‘shopping holidays’ we’re talking about virtually any shopping experience, and ranking these is often problematic. Perhaps the best shopping cities are those that try to offer it all – something I’ve factored into my rankings. But if you want something specific from your shopping experience, your opinions will vary.
Tokyo is actually a lot more multi-faceted as a shopping destination than perhaps you’d think. And of all the destinations on the list, it’s easily among the most culturally charged. Fashion is as big in Japan as it is in Paris, though it has to be said that Japanese tastes can be ‘unique’ in this area. But Japanese fashion can be fascinating to explore and work into your usual repertoire – go to Aoyama for classy stores, Harajuku and Shibuya for teenage trends (but it may be worth understanding Japanese clothing sizes before you go).
Tokyo is also significant for its Akihabara district, which inspires visits from fans of technology, gaming and anime / manga culture. One stop shop Yodobashi Camera is a typical outlet, but smaller, shops like the amusingly named ‘Super Potato’ (specialising in retro Japanese consoles) are a lot more exciting to discover.
The Biggest: Dubai
If you’re after sheer scale, Dubai is categorically the best place in the world for a shopping spree. Based on total area, the Dubai Mall in downtown is the world’s largest shopping mall, though Dongguan’s New South China Mall is the largest in terms of gross leaseable area. Unlike the New South China Mall, it is actually more than 1% occupied. 37 million visitors a year enjoy around 1200 stores with several atriums and conference spaces, an indoor theme park, 22 screen multiplex cinema, a hotel and 120 restaurants and cafes. Oh and Ice Rink and Aquarium. It’s not even the only mall in the area.
Dubai is also significant for its souks (traditional markets). Particular unique are those selling textiles, spices and gold – a fascinating insight to an aspect of Emirates life that is perhaps falling by the wayside.
Steph Wood writes on behalf of Vanquis Credit Cards, a UK-based Credit Card Company.
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