Whether you love or hate the annual frenzy that is Christmas shopping, there will be friends and family expecting gifts – so why not make the experience a pleasant one by combining shopping with sightseeing on a winter getaway? Or, make the most of a business trip by taking care of Christmas gifts while you’re there?
Here are a selection of great cities where you can shop until the money runs out. And if you end up mostly buying special somethings for yourself? Well, we wouldn’t blame you….!
New York
If you’re looking for a ‘one-stop-shop’ so to speak, look no further than the big apple. Hit up fifth avenue to buy for label lovers, pop into the boutiques of SoHo for gems from local designers, or check out Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen for some great antique stores. And while you’re there, why not go skating at the Rockefeller Plaza – it is a classic New York Christmas tradition….!
Paris
For a breathtaking mix of culture and couture, you can’t do better than Paris. Skip the museums and monuments and head straight for the Faubourg Saint-Honoré district, where you’ll find the crème de la crème of fashion, cosmetics, and homewares. Spent most of your budget on the flight? Not to worry, you can hunt down a bargain at the Saint-Ouen flea market, where unique pieces of art, vintage clothing, and wonderfully odd objects await.
Miami
What to do when its too cold for the beach? Why, the malls of course! Miami is a mecca for outlet stores, vintage finds, and expensive boutiques. If you need everything in one place, check out Lincoln Road – a ten-block mall full of stores, cafes, restaurants and galleries. About 30 minutes north of Miami is Sawgrass mills, famous for it’s factory outlets, where you can grab a bite at a Wolfgang Puck cafe when you need to recharge in style.
Montreal
Get a taste of Europe without breaking the bank. Montreal is truly magical at Christmas time – the lights strung up in the old town really make it feel like a fairytale, and the artisanal products available at the outdoor christmas market are great for friends who prefer cute to commercial. Stay in one of our cozy luxury apartments, wrap up warm and don’t pass up the chance to buy a hot apple cider or mulled wine. And if you must haggle – do it in French!