1. New York City, New York, United States
Perhaps the world's top shopping spot, the Big Apple hardly needs an introduction. Fifth Avenue. Madison Avenue. Soho. Times Square. The list of stellar shopping destinations and famous names is almost endless, so pack light and stock up on everything from electronics to vintage clothes while you're there.
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Family Fun
New York City
New York's many zoos, museums and landmarks make the city a perfect destination for families of all ages. Explore Times Square or take the kids to FAO Schwarz, take a boat ride to the Statue of Liberty or an elevator to the top of the Empire State Building, eat lunch at Carnegie Deli or picnic in Central Park - the choices are endless.
History & Culture
New York City
Though it is not the oldest city in America, no place has more history or culture than New York. One visit can't fit all the highlights: the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Central Park, Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, Natural History Museum and, of course, the moving site of Ground Zero.
2. Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The world capital of Haute Couture, Paris is a shopper's dream. Legendary addresses like Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore tempt the glitterati. Ancient flea markets perch at the city's hems, offering chaotic atmosphere and fascinating treasures, plus a peek into the real personality of Paris.
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Family Fun
Paris
The City of Lights shines bright for kids of all ages. Living up to every pre-trip fantasy, Paris has a constellation of starring sights from the atmospheric Notre Dame to the elegant Eiffel Tower to thrilling Parc Asterix, DisneyLand Paris and the wonders of the Louvre. Prepare to be dazzled.
History & Culture
Paris
History is as easy to come by in Paris as fresh croissants. Just strolling along the Seine is a walk through the ages. But don't miss Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sacre Coeur basilica, Pere-Lachaise Cemetery, the once-bohemian cafes of Montparnasse, the Louvre and Orsay museums and, of course, the Eiffel Tower.
Romance
Paris
From its picturesque bridges to its outdoor cafes, no other city says romance like Paris. Stroll along the river Seine, picnic amid the flowers of the 61-acre Luxembourg Garden or toast the sunset from atop Montmartre as the City of Light sparkles below. Paris - c'est magnifique!
3. Milan, Lombardy, Italy
The high fashion capital of Italy, the northern metropolis of Milan is one of the world's premier shopping destinations. Ostentation, splendor and near otherworldly glamour beckon from the glitzy windows of Milan's flagship design houses, the sleek fashion temples of Armani, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana.
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History & Culture
Milan
History lovers should know that Milan is not all about trendy shops and designer clothes. Among the city's many historical attractions are La Scala Opera, the Milan Cathedral, the National Museum of Science and Technology and Santa Maria della Grazie, the church that preserves da Vinci's "Last Supper".
4. Tokyo, Tokyo Prefecture, Kanto, Japan
Shopping amidst Tokyo's infinite options can be dizzying, so knowing the neighborhoods is crucial: Go to Ginza for upscale boutiques and department stores, Akihabara for electronics, Omotesando and Aoyama for high-end fashion, Harajuku and Shibuya for young trendy clothing, and Kanda for bookstores.
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History & Culture
Tokyo
Tokyo can't be judged from the outside, since those expecting ancient monuments will instead be greeted with modern drabness. The Imperial Palace, still home to the Emperor, shouldn't be missed, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum details the city's history. Sensoji Temple is the city's oldest, and the Tokyo National Museum holds the largest collection of Japanese art in the world.
5. San Francisco, California, United States
The choice of distinctly different shopping districts in San Francisco is almost overwhelming. Whether you want to opt for the opulent Westfield Center or go funk fantastic in the eclectic Mission or tourist traditional in Union Square, you'll definitely need to bring an empty suitcase when you visit.
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History & Culture
San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is just one sight among many in the historic maritime city of San Francisco. Visit Alcatraz, explore Union Square and Fisherman's Wharf, ride a cable car to the Cable Car Museum and discover the city's Spanish roots at Mission Dolores and Asian influence in Chinatown.
6. London, England, United Kingdom
One of the world's top shopping cities, there's really nothing that you can't buy in London. Big name stores line Oxford and Regent Streets. Luxury items abound in upmarket Knightsbridge. For a distinctive London spree, head north to Camden Market and wander among stands of clothing, crafts and bric-a-brac.
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Family Fun
London
Offering the irresistible combination of atmosphere, history and the thrills of a vast, fast-paced city, London makes a majestic destination. From the ghoulish Tower of London and the pomp of Buckingham Palace to the buzz of a big wheel, the London Eye, this is a city that will have you in a spin.
History & Culture
London
Lovers of history will fall in love with London. Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, Buckingham and Kensington Palaces and the Tower of London are must-sees, as are the Tate and National Galleries and British Museum. Military history devotees can spend hours at the Imperial War Museum and Cabinet War Rooms.
7. Miami Beach, Florida, United States
The epicenter of cool has all the shopping options a fashionista could ever want. The Collins Avenue Fashion District boasts designer labels from Armani to Versace. Ocean Drive caters to the younger, funkier beautiful people, while Lincoln Road draws the artistic crowd to its galleries and boutiques.
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Romance
Miami Beach
Miami Beach makes an utterly irresistible destination for those with romance on their vacation itinerary. Fabulous famed beaches, celebrity-owned eateries, alfresco dining, legendary bars, star spotting and spectacular shopping offer inspiring opportunities to indulge with loved ones.
Beaches & Sun
Miami Beach
At the shore in Miami Beach, visitors can swim, surf and jet ski in the warm and crystal-clear Atlantic waters. You can also nap on the white sands, work on a tan or simply watch the beautiful people, especially at South Beach, a favorite of models and celebrities.
8. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
With an ever-booming population, shiny Dubai has emerged as the shopping capital of the Middle East, with more than fifty malls and counting (many ultra-upscale), and outdoor markets peddling everything under the sun. Stores citywide slash their prices during the month-long annual Dubai Shopping Festival.
9. Rome, Lazio, Italy
Italian retail chains line charming medieval shopping streets in the vivacious capital. Family-run outfits still flourish and street market stands are laden with fresh fruit. Upscale fashion palaces are poised at the foot of the famed Spanish Steps, with looks fresh off the world's catwalks.
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Family Fun
Rome
With sights guaranteed to impress even the most jaded teen, the Italian capital makes for a captivating getaway. From the ghoulish bone-decorated Santa Maria della Concezione to the delicious slew of ice cream stops around the city, Rome is sure to have something unforgettable for everyone.
History & Culture
Rome
Besides delicious food and delightful Italian culture, the best thing about Rome is its history. At its peak, Rome was the greatest, most powerful city and civilization in history. Today, sights such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Spanish Steps remind us of what Rome once was.
10. Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
You'll be spoiled for choice in bargain-crammed Barcelona, where designer names jostle for attention in the city's thrilling array of stores. If you're in the market for some picnic shopping, trot to La Boqueria - a rambunctious market - and stock up on almonds, cherries and other tasty delights.
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Family Fun
Barcelona
The winning combination of culture, coastline and a great climate make Barcelona a top choice for the whole family. Gaudi's astounding architectural creations amaze. Some appealing beaches provide daytime diversions. Sights such as the aquarium and Las Ramblas provide yet more entertainment
History & Culture
Barcelona
You will not find any shortage of history in Barcelona, a city that is more than 2,000 years old. A trip through Europe's best-preserved Gothic Quarter turns the clock back to ancient and medieval times, and visually stunning churches and outstanding art museums also make excellent sightseeing.
11. Beverly Hills, California, United States
Developed as a shopping district in the 1970s, Beverly Hills' high end Rodeo Drive is a ritzy throwback to the halcyon days of Main Street shopping. Celebrities stalk the sidewalks, big name bags in hand. More than 60 elite clothing and jewelry stores line this main affluent shopping artery.
12. Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Home to the country's largest shopping mall, the 520-store Mall of America, as well as historic Southdale, the first mall to be built in the U.S., the Minneapolis area is an enticing shopping destination. No tax on apparel makes the better known half of the Twin Cities an even more enticing option.
13. Bangkok, Thailand
A mind-blowing delight, Bangkok shopping runs the gamut from ultra-chic malls to energetic street markets hawking everything imaginable. For an experience unlike any other, check out the Chatuchak weekend market, the largest in Thailand and the world, with a staggering 15,000 stalls covering 35 acres.
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History & Culture
Bangkok
For those willing to see and explore, a visit to Bangkok can be a fun and enriching lesson in Thai history and culture. Some key attractions include the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, Temple of the Dawn, the Jim Thompson House and the two-century-old Grand Palace, featuring a majestic emerald Buddha.
14. Bahamas, Caribbean
Unique shopping opportunities can be found across the Bahamas' many islands, but the biggest concentration is along and around Bay Street in downtown Nassau, where you'll find department stores, boutiques and duty-free shops, as well as a lively straw market selling art, crafts and designer knock-offs.
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Casinos
Bahamas
The Bahamas boasts an enticing array of gambling destinations. Grand Bahama's big draws include Freeport's Bahamia and Lucaya's Isle of Capri, while Paradise Island, adjacent to Nassau, boasts the thrilling, glittering Atlantis Resort, a fairy-tale destination with a 7-acre lagoon, towers, glass sculptures and fantastic gaming.
Beaches & Sun
Bahamas
Whatever you look for in a beach, the Bahamas has it. With sands that range from pink to white to sugary, waters that are blue or crystal clear, waves that cater to water sports or swimming and sunsets that are always romantic, the Bahamian shores are brilliant and unforgettable.
Family Fun
Bahamas
The Bahamas offers families 700 islands of fun, sun and nature. Marvel at the tropical wildlife, plunder away at Pirates in the Bahamas, or explore the Adventure Learning Centre's petting farm, planetarium and nature trail. Of course, there are always relaxing beaches for family fun.
15. Puerto Vallarta, Pacific Coast, Mexico
Thanks to the steady stream of cruise ship passengers passing through its harbor, Puerto Vallarta is geared toward the shopper, with virtually anything Mexican-made being readily available. The marina boardwalk, its nearby market, and the surrounding streets are full of shopping opportunities.
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Romance
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta has the ideal setting for a luscious romantic escape. Banderas Bay, the site of Elizabeth Taylor's and Richard Burton's big romance, offers fabulous beaches, some of the country's best restaurants, proximity to Old Mexico and boat rides to the charming fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan.
Beaches & Sun
Puerto Vallarta
On the second-largest natural bay on the continent, Puerto Vallarta has miles and miles of world-class beaches. The coastline is dotted with quiet coves and spectacular islands, and the water caters to all sorts of beach activities, from sunbathing to snorkeling to windsurfing.
Family Fun
Puerto Vallarta
All the right ingredients for a fabulous family getaway are on offer in, Puerto Vallarta; wonderful weather, beautiful beaches, great resorts and welcoming people. Perched between the ocean and the jungle, PV offers all the sports and activities of a perfect Pacific playground.
16. Chicago, Illinois, United States
Amid downtown's gleaming skyscrapers lies Magnificent Mile, the Michigan Avenue strip that's long been Chicago's shopping heart, boasting swanky chain stores and the famous Water Tower Place. Further afield, the Bucktown, Lincoln Park and Wicker Park neighborhoods offer some extraordinary boutiques.
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Family Fun
Chicago
One of the best places to go with family in tow, Chicago absolutely teems with attractions. Choose from the fun of touristy Navy Pier and photo ops at the mirrored Cloud Gate sculpture to riding a tandem along the hem of Lake Michigan, the (free) zoo or the wonderful Shedd Aquarium.
17. Hong Kong, Hong Kong Region, China
Hong Kong is definitely a destination for the experienced bargain shopper. Tsim Sha Tsui offers the densest concentration of shops in the crowded city. Shoes, watches, luggage, clothes and myriad more items cram shops and stands in the frenetic area. For more elegant attire, try the Central area.
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History & Culture
Hong Kong
A rare combination of age-old tradition and a dynamic modern state, Hong Kong boasts many remarkable historical attractions. Be sure to visit the Peak Tower, the Po Lin Monastery with the largest outdoor bronze Buddha in the world, the Man Mo Temple and the Hong Kong Museum of History.
18. Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Shoppers of all budgets can find a lot to love in Montreal, from the Marché Jean-Talon farmers market to the mid-range trendy shops and department stores along rue Ste-Catherine, to the more cutting edge fashions of rues St-Denis and St-Laurent, to the high end luxury boutiques on rue Sherbrooke.
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Romance
Montreal
With its European ambiance, Quebecois joie de vivre and its elegant architecture, Montreal is ideal for romantic escapes. Intimate bistros, perfect for tête-à-têtes, nestle on cobblestone streets. Patio tables give views of Montrealers strolling their streets. A thrilling slew of hot hotels and nightlife make for exciting nights.
History & Culture
Montreal
Since Cartier landed in Montreal in 1535, it has evolved from a small village into a major world metropolis. Trace its development from the days of Champlain as you walk through Old Montreal's Parisian-style streets, explore the Botanical Gardens and visit the renowned Notre-Dame Basilica.
19. Singapore, Singapore
Whether you want to sashay through a slew of gargantuan malls or sidle down side streets in the hopes of a bargain, Singapore is sure to satiate the appetites of the most jaded shopper. Choose from local crafts in Chinatown, Little India and Arab Street, or find upscale attire along Orchard Road.
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History & Culture
Singapore
Tourists have shown an increased interest in the past, so Singapore has restored much of its Chinatown district, including the Thian Hock Keng temple, with its impressive warrior door gods and the city's oldest Hindu national monument. The Kranji War Memorial is a tribute to the casualties of the Second World War.
20. Toronto, Ontario, Canada
A smorgasbord of scintillating shopping experiences awaits in Canada's largest city. Intrepid shoppers can sashay along up and coming Queen West, with its independent boutiques and funky, trendy galleries, or strut through flagship stores and big name emporia in chic, sleek, star-studded Yorkville.
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History & Culture
Toronto
Vibrant Toronto has a dazzling array of arts and culture venues; more than 200 theater companies tread the city's boards; big name and alternative museums and galleries abound; orchestras and bands thrive in the spirited city; and a seemingly infinite number of festivals confetti the calendar.
21. Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Boisterous Sydney offers every kind of shopping for visitors, with the heart of the action centred on the tourist-thronged Rocks district and along George and Pitt Streets. A distinctive Sydney shopping experience can be had at the Queen Victoria Building, where 200 boutiques compete for attention.
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Beaches & Sun
Sydney
With dozens of stunning ocean beaches within half an hour of downtown, there are few better urban beach destinations than Sydney. Famed Bondi Beach sees up to 40,000 on busy weekends. If quieter beaches appeal, take the coastal walk past smaller strands all the way to Coogee's calmer sands.
History & Culture
Sydney
Home to indigenous people for tens of thousands of years, Sydney's European history began when Captain Cook laid eyes on Botany Bay in 1770. The discovery of gold in 1851 led to massive growth and Sydney has blossomed into a thrilling, glittering, modern city with world-class arts and culture institutions.
22. Madrid, Spain
Boasting a slew of intriguing boutiques - 50,000 of them, no less - Madrid can fulfill your every shopping desire and then some. El Centro teems with tempting opportunities. For intrepid shoppers and hagglers, El Rastro, which takes place every Sunday, is Spain's largest and most varied flea market.
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History & Culture
Madrid
Madrid boasts some of the finest art collections in the world, but the city also has plenty of interesting historic attractions. The Royal Palace, the Convent of the Royal Barefoot Nuns, the Museo Naval and Puerta Del Sol trace Spanish history from the empire Francisco Franco's reign to the modern day.
23. Buenos Aires, Capital Federal District, Argentina
Latin America's shopping capital offers exciting experiences along its grand, wide boulevards. Galleria Pacifico and Patio Bullrich are upmarket malls, crammed with Argentine fashions. You'll find fabulous shoes, bags and other items for appealing prices throughout the city, known for its leather goods.
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History & Culture
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires' European heritage is evident in its architecture, boulevards and parks. Recoleta Cemetery is the final resting place of many of the city's tycoons and presidents, as well as still-beloved first lady Eva Peron. Cafe Tortoni, the city's oldest bar, will transport you back to 1858, and the spectacular Teatro Colon impresses just as it did in 1908.
Romance
Buenos Aires
The birthplace of the sensual tango is an incredibly romantic city to sashay to. Atmospheric old neighborhoods present captivating corners and enticing restaurants to linger in. Restaurants and nightlife options are appealingly priced, making it even easier to enjoy any number of romantic meals out.
24. Marrakech, Morocco
One of Marrakech's main and most fascinating attractions is Djeema el Fna, its sprawling labyrinth of vendors selling everything from crafts to rugs to clothing to spices. Other souks specialize, with Siyyaghin concentrating on jewelry and El Kebir focusing on the leather goods for which Marrakech is famed.
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Spa
Marrakech
Among the crowded streets and souks of vibrant Marrakech, ancient hammams beckon. Choose from alluring addresses such as world famous Les Doux Tours and traditional Moroccan bathhouse Riad Mehdi, where both age-old and modern treatments star and comfortable rooms await around the courtyard.
25. Vienna, Austria
Traditional crafts, such as hand-painted porcelain, ceramics, wrought iron and leather goods, are Viennese classics. While the bulk of stores are situated in the city center, chic Vienna's most elegant shopping avenue is Mariahilferstrasse, a perfect spot for picking up jewelry, accessories and fashions.
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History & Culture
Vienna
From Maria Theresa to Franz Ferdinand and from fragmented state to world empire, Austria has a history of compelling royalty and influential statecraft. One can find much of this in Vienna's many historical attractions, including the Schonbrunn Palace, the Imperial Palace and the State Opera House.
26. Athens, Attica, Greece
Known as a place to acquire antiques and leather goods, the Greek capital also has a famed flea market in Monastiraki. Chic neighborhood Kolonaki teems with cafes, stores and restaurants. Situated within this fashionable suburb, Tsakalof Street is among the world's most expensive shopping addresses.
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History & Culture
Athens
Paradise for the history lover, Athens is filled with precious ruins of ancient Greek civilization. The most famous sights are the Acropolis, the Parthenon, Agora, the Theater of Dionysos and the National Gardens, but to visit these attractions is merely to scratch the surface of what Athens has to offer.
Family Fun
Athens
Athens makes for a marvelous family vacation. Everyone will go away with astounding sights and experiences emblazoned in their memories; buildings the kids have only seen in cartoon form, from the Parthenon to the Acropolis looming up high. Plus towering statues, idyllic islands and stunning antiquities.
27. Beijing, China
An exploding commercial giant, Beijing abounds not just with big street markets (avoid the overpriced and touristy Silk Market and instead check out Panjiayuan, sometimes called Dirt Market), but also higher end areas like downtown's Wangfujing, a pedestrian mall flanked by two Western-style shopping centers.
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History & Culture
Beijing
With a street grid laid out by Kublai Khan in the 13th century, Beijing is filled with history. Tiananmen Square contains a memorial to the Heroes of the People, the Mao Zedong Mausoleum and the spectacular Forbidden City palace. Slightly outside of town, the Ming Tombs are the burial grounds of 13 dynastic emperors.
28. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo's bazaars (called souks) are among the world's most famous, where almost anything fathomable - even live camels - is for sale. Be ready for sensory overload, and be ready to haggle, as starting prices are generally double the expected sales price. Khan el-Khalili is one of Cairo's most popular souks.
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History & Culture
Cairo
The Egyptian capital was founded in 969 A.D. and encompasses a veritable litany of wonders. Seven thousand millennia of history has left astounding treasures on the banks of the Nile, from the Sphinx and the Pyramids to the Orthodox, 3rd-century Hanging Church and atmospheric, medieval Old Cairo.
29. Rio de Janeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
A proliferation of malls makes shopping a breeze in affordable Rio. Try Barrashopping, a vast complex of more than 600 stores. At Galleria River in Arpoador, a dozen stores cater to surfers and skaters. Alternatively, get a taste for Brazilian beach life and score souvenirs from vendors strolling the sands.
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Romance
Rio de Janeiro
Lively, exuberant Rio de Janeiro is an excellent choice for an active romantic escape. The city pulses with the throb of sensual samba rhythms, the beaches teem with life, the nightlife scene is searing hot and there's a palpable air of excitement in this vivacious city of seven million.
Beaches & Sun
Rio de Janeiro
Perhaps nowhere on earth is the beach so crucial to a big city's culture as in Rio, with its two most popular strips having even been immortalized in song. Of the two, Copacabana is bigger and livelier, Ipanema a bit more upscale and relaxed. For even greater Žlan, try Leblon just to their west.
30. Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Victoria and Albert Waterfront, South Africa's most visited attraction, offers more than 400 shops for all tastes and budgets. St. George's Mall is a popular and very central pedestrian shopping avenue, with arts, crafts and jewelry among the wares. For antiques it's Long Street, one of the city's oldest.
