With the holiday season just around the corner, seven fabulous shopping destinations around the globe can turn Christmas shopping into the perfect vacation. Suggestions by Booking.com offer ways to quell shopping addictions while solving holiday gift needs with some very tempting and immersive shopping destinations.
Galeries Lafayette, Paris
The historic Galeries Lafayette was founded in 1912 and has been considered a must-experience venue in the French capital ever since. This grandiose department store features a monumental stained glass dome and a terrace overlooking Paris in addition to sensational shops after shops after shops… Stay at the 1er Etage Opéra, a modern accommodation that is a mix between a boutique hotel and a deluxe guest house, located in the Opera Garnier District, just a 4-minutes’ walk from this shopping paradise.
Harrods, London
Housing exclusive collections and top international brands, the historic Harrods department store opened its doors 182 years ago with its signature green bags becoming famous all over the world. Nothing is too much trouble for the staff at this gem of a shopper’s delight. Try the new cutting edge Wellness Clinic at Harrod’s for a quick lift, whether in spirits, beauty or both. Stay at the nearby Beaufort House – Knightsbridge, situated a mere 325 feet away and offering luxury serviced apartments in the heart of the exclusive Knightsbridge shopping area. You can also head to nearby Mayfair for a stay at The Beaumont, where history, design and art converge.
The Dubai Mall, Dubai
A unique shopping experience for the whole family awaits at the stunning Dubai Mall. Offering a diverse range of shopping and dining, Dubai Mall also features an aquarium and underwater zoo, a 22-screen cinema, an ice rink, and an indoor theme park. Stay at The Address, Dubai Mall Hotel, which is connected directly to Dubai Mall, and watch the fountain spectacle erupt in a symphony of water and light at regular five-minute intervals during the day and night. An elegant 5-star hotel, it features an outdoor infinity pool overlooking the Burj Khalifa, as well as a relaxing spa.
Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele, Milano
The imposing shopping mall of Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele is not only a very important historic monument that became popular due to its size, but it’s also home to prestigious brand shops that will tug at the heart, and the wallet. Stay at the Aparthotel Dei Mercanti, set only a few hundred feet from Milan Cathedral. These apartments are a great choice for a spacious accommodation near one of the world’s oldest shopping arcades.
GUM, Moscow
Facing Moscow’s Red Square, the department store GUM has stunning architecture and a long history. When taking a brief break from the retail frenzy, stop to admire its beautiful hallways and the impressive glass roof. Stay at the luxurious 5-star Four Seasons Hotel Moscow, which is situated in the historic building of Moskva Hotel and is just a quarter mile from the GUM department store. Guests can relax at the hotel’s glassed-in, heated pool after finishing with their shopping or enjoy their drink at The Silk Lounge or Moskovsky Bar.
Isetan, Tokyo
Shopping lovers adore the trendy Japanese department store of Isetan. Considered to be one of the most popular in Tokyo, this fashion center is a shopping paradise, particularly during sales periods. But at any time of year it’s a great place to indulge every retail whim. Stay at Tokyu Stay Shinjuku, a property that only opened its doors in May 2015 and features simply decorated rooms, 650 feet away from the Isetan Department Store.
The Landmark (Central), Hong Kong
Also known as “Central”, The Landmark is one of the oldest shopping malls in Hong Kong. Featuring exclusive shops, Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy cafes, this department store is the perfect place to splash some cash. Stay at the The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong situated in the heart of Hong Kong’s fashion district, where the exclusive-ultra-chic luxury hotel features unique spa treatments to revive after a long day shopping.
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