New York City is on our radar this week for one reason in particular – shopping. Fabulous, Festive-Season shopping.
Not for nothing have travellers from the UK become known as “two-bag Brits”. We fly out with one bag and return with two, stuffed full of purchases from our favourite brands from iconic department stores such as Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue and renowned discount stores such as Century 21, Loehmann’s, TJ Maxx and Marshalls.
Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, is when the shopping season starts. The Monday following that is known as Cyber Monday, one of the busiest shopping days for online retailers.
This year, shoppers are more bargain-minded than ever. Analysts say Black Friday will reflect that, with a greater number of shops slashing prices and extending the dates of their sales.
Most items are cheaper in the US than they are in Britain. There’s no sales tax on shoes and clothing that cost under $110. And the service is legendary.
Bloomingdale’s has a Visitors Centre with a personal shopping service, hotel package delivery and a “signature gift” for customers who have spent $200 in their spree. It also offers a 10 per cent discount to visitors from Europe.
Customers at Macy’s can pick up an International Savings Card (pdf), which offers 10 per cent savings for 30 days.
Some of the best New York shopping can be found on the stalls in SoHo. There, unique teeshirts, hats and jewellery can be snapped up at stocking-filler prices.
If you’re hoping to tack on a little culture during your stay, there are savings to be made there too. The City Pass grants access to six of New York’s must-sees including the Empire State Building, Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History and Museum of Modern Art (has a great shop too) for $79 ($59 for children).
(Picture credit: Macy’s Inc.)
