When you start thinking of world’s fashion hot spots, most likely you enumerate New York, Paris, London or Milan. I bet you’ll forget about Tokyo and will make a mistake. While European and American designers have become something predictable, fresh breeze from Asia adds up some new looks, brave solutions and unexpected mix of colors and styles.

Tokyo is a real fashion center of region that spreads its influence towards America and Europe. While citizens of Europe and the New World tend to wear more casual styles, Japanese keep an eye on the latest trends and sometimes the streets of Tokyo can remind you of fashion podiums. Don’t be afraid of unbelievably high prices – you can find here malls and stores that fit any budget.

As Japanese people adore shopping and spend lots of money on it, their shops are one of the best in the world. One can get lost in endless stores of Shibuya, Odaiba, Harajuku and Ginza. Almost all stores work from 10/11 a.m. up to 7/8 p.m. including weekends and holidays.  (more…)

The latest economic crisis has touched seems everyone in our country, making people think more about ways of saving money. If you consider travel a luxury that costs much and thus is not for you this time, then just read the following list of top destinations for budget travelers. Travel is a real art and traveling smart is a double pleasure as you come back home with both unforgettable memories and bucks in your pocket.

1. China and Asia in whole Asia is the only place where backpackers no longer need to decide whether they want to exhaust their bank account or experience second-rate service. While worldwide economic crisis and expensive Euro make trips to Europe costly, Asian countries seem to be the right location. Current stats show each year Americans prefer visiting more Asian countries while Europe stats are flat. China remains the most desired Asian destination showing an unbelievable 83% increase in trips comparing to previous year. What makes China so popular? Only in China any traveler can both explore one of the world’s most ancient civilizations and enjoy cheap rates with quality service. Also China is tending to become a shopper’s paradise - it’s hard to find something you cannot buy on Chinese markets. The prices are not just low; they tend to go to zero. Don’t forget to try Chinese food - it’s totally different from something you used to eat. By the way, if you have never been in any Asian country, you can save your money by doing all-in-one trips that have recently become very popular. This includes 14-21 day vacation throughout continent starting from Bangkok to Bali, Taipei and Tokyo.

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Christmas is getting closer and we start thinking about presents for our friends and family members. Surely, you can wait until December, go to overcrowded shopping malls and get the last pair of socks, gloves or try to find something nice in heaps of unattractive sweaters. If this prospect doesn’t sound good for you, October and November are best months for Christmas shopping. In case you are planning your trip to Europe, this is just a perfect opportunity to buy truly amazing presents.

Europe is called a shopping mecca and it absolutely proves this name. Fashion people know they can get the hottest stuff not only in New York, but also in world’s trend-setting fashion capitals like Paris and Milan. Any conservative person surely knows and values Scandinavian and German designs. In true, you can find presents for all your friends, family, colleagues or boss including the most hard-to-please ones in Europe. Another reason we advise visiting Europe in October and November is you can feel the atmosphere of real holiday. There’s no need to stay in Europe until Christmas as bright, joyful and festive markets are opened months beforehand. You can buy multiple souvenirs, sweets, freshly baked bread and holiday gingerbread or just wander around enjoying colorful sights, lively sounds and hot spiced wine. (more…)

You could see them in movies. You could read fiction books about them, but you’ve never seen them in your real life. Hidden treasures buried in distinct islands are not just imagination; they really exist and every year thousands of people from all over the world try their luck and seek old sunken ships, pirate caches or caves and grottos with jewelry, old coins, gold bullions and other antiques. Do you want to join the army of treasury hunters and make your vacation truly unforgettable?

If the answer is “yes” then check up this list of the most famous treasure islands where you can not only get a wonderful rest, but also feel yourself the main character of adventure blockbuster. (more…)

Shopping in New York

New York is widely known as a shopper’s paradise. Large trading centers, boutiques, exclusive and latest trends are mixed here with street outlets offering bargain priced clothes and shoes. In general it’s hard to find anything that is not sold in Big Apple.

If you plan your trip to NY, take advantage of many shopping opportunities. As you arrive, don’t go to Times Square shops as these tourist oriented outlets usually sell low quality at high prices. If you are serious about bargaining, take time and visit shops nearby New Jersey and Hudson River Valley.

You can always find fair priced clothes and accessories at big department stores like Macy’s or Bloomingdales. They sell merchandise for women, men and children. All clothes are of a good quality and you can find here designer labeled items as well. Despite clothes various things like cosmetics, electronics, household goods or souvenirs can be found at these department stores. End of the season usually means great rebates, so you can buy first-class items at high discounts here. Despite from abovementioned Macy’s and Bloomingdales NY’s most popular department stores include Bergdorf Goodman and Lord and Taylor at Fifth Avenue. Filenes and Saks Fifth Avenue stores sell designer clothes; Century 21 is a real Mecca for those who seek bargain priced items.

Manhattan is known for its shopping malls. South Street Seaport offers more than 120 shops with clothes of all styles. Manhattan Mall and Trump Towers will attract shoppers who want to find something exclusive and up-to-date.

If you have enough time, make sure you check shopping districts in Manhattan. Garment District sells the USA manufactured clothes; Greenwich Village specializes in hottest trends and designer clothing while Soho sells more avant-garde items. (more…)