Joanna James
Luxury shopping is a whole other ball game on its own and one that can excite you in many ways, especially when it becomes a habit. Retail therapy is a wonderful way to get a boost of serotonin into your veins and that is why we have compiled the top five best department stores for you.
What is better than shopping in Paris? The answer is nothing much. The Galeries Lafayette, Paris is one of those department stores that are better known for its architecture which is in the style of Belle Epoque, as well as some cutting edge fashion choices. There is plenty in the way of jewellery, cosmetics, home décor, fashionable and high-end clothing among others. You can also expect a fully guided tour of the architectural wonders such as the Art Nouveau staircase, the neo-Byzantine colour glass dome and the spectacular rooftop terrace.
Another one of the shopping destinations of the world that would pop into your mind when thinking of extravagance and elegance, is Milan. Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele is located in the city centre. It is an interaction of two whole streets; Teatro Alla Scala and Duomo, making up an octagonal space which is topped with a glass dome. It was designed sometime in 1860 but it wasn't until 1865 when construction began, to end in 1877. At the Galleria, you can visit some of Milan's oldest shops and stop for a meal at one of the city's equally ancient restaurants.
Some people say that Le Bon Marche in Paris is the first department store in the world. It was designed by the same Gustav Eiffel who designed the Eiffel Tower and was first opened in 1852. Apart from clothes and accessories, there is also a giant food centre. Called La grande épicerie de Paris, it contains over 5000 global products as well as local products from Spanish Hamon, artisanal jams and Welsh mineral water among others. You should visit sites the likes of Shopping in Focus to find out more about the products available at Le Bon Marche, Paris.
Detsky Mir or Children's World has been one of the most famous children's department stores in the world since Soviet times. It was first opened in 1957 and is the Disneyland for Russian children. There are rows upon rows of well-created toys and games as well as a carousel that still works today. In 2008, Detsky Mir was closed for almost six years during which it underwent massive renovations. It is a must-visit if you are ever in Russia.
Probably the most well-known department store on our list, Selfridges is located in central London. It has a flagship store in Oxford Street that takes up almost 10 acres and is believed to be the second-largest department store in England after the famous Harrod's. It is a must-visit shopping destination even if all you want to do is window shop and look at the Art Deco.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
