What is the story about?
Not to say that sightseeing is losing its charm - especially in some of the most-visited dream destinations of the world. But there is way more today that is driving
people to book those expensive flights half-way across the world, than just trotting through must-see tourist lists. And there is nothing quite like spending money, to go spend money at these dreamy shopping destinations across the world. Here's where they are - and what makes them so special.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, Paris
Calling Galeries Lafayette on the Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement of Paris a 'shopping arcade' would be incredibly minimising. The Bell Epoque glass dome alone adds enough of a theatrical touch as do the curated floors of luxury. The best time to visit the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann in Paris is between late November to December for the breathtaking Christmas installations. The June-July stretch also comes highly recommended for the iconic Les Soldes summer sale.What to shop: The Galeries Lafayette Haussmann has French luxury options across Chanel and Dior, contemporary Parisian labels like Sandro and Maje and beauty staples like Lancome and Bioderma. For the gourmet options, don't miss out on the French pastries and artisanal chocolates.
Macy's Herald Square, NYC
Macy's at New York City's Herald Square is pure American retail history. One of the reasons this Macy's has held on to its allure is the grandeur with which it offers the mammoth scale of shopping, of course not to mention the cultural events tied with it such as the Thanksgiving Day Parade and blockbuster holiday windows. The best time to visit Macy's Herald Square in NYC is the November to December to experience the holiday windows or even late-January for post-holiday sales.
What to shop: Macy's Herald Square has accessible luxury fashion options like Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein, beauty picks like Estee Lauder and MAC.
Isetan Shinjuku, Tokyo
Tokyo's Isetan Shinjuku carries none of the chaos that entails retail shopping. It's clean, crisp and leaves you feeling luxurious after a saunter through it, even if you haven't bought something - yet! The best time to visit Isetan Shinjuku in Tokyo is the March to April stretch, particularly for the cherry blossom landscapes or October and November for when new collections drop.What to shop: Up for grabs at Isetan Shinjuku are Japanese designers like Issey Miyake and Comme des Garcons and high-end skincare like Shiseido and SK-II. For gourmet options there, don't miss out on the wagashi.
GUM, Moscow
GUM is the representation of how imperial grandeur can be tied into the retail experience, that too without any kitschy elements. Overlooking Red Square, crowds flock to GUM for the atmosphere - blame its vaulted glass ceilings and arching corridors.The best time to visit GUM in Moscow is December, for the snow-draped fairy lights and festive markets - but summers do offer easier exploration.
What to shop: GUM offers Russian luxury and heritage brands, designer labels like Prada and Gucci. And don't leave before trying the iconic GUM ice cream!
Selfridges Oxford Street, London
Selfridges on Oxford Street is constantly on a quest for reinvention - the immersive displays and pop-ups add a conceptual element to retail therapy, which elevates the experience. The best time to visit Selfridges in London is December, for its whimsical and mystical Christmas windows. June to July however, offer stellar summer sales.What to shop: British designers like Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney are up for grabs as are streetwear and emerging labels.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan
Getting clicked right in the middle of the mosaic floors and under the glass-vaulted ceilings, make the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II feel like a fashion pilgrimage in itself. The best time to pay a visit to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is between April and June or the September to October stretch. December offers festive cheer.What to shop: Italian luxury options like Prada and Versace pull aspirational and seasoned crowds alike as do the leather goods and accessories options.
