Thursday, November 19, 2009

London Shopping: An Insider's Guide

By Rajul Chande

London offers a world of shopping opportunities! So what is your best option if you're short of time?

Assuming you've only got a few precious days to spend in London: isn't it sensible to visit the city's famous department stores, to find everything in one place?

Here's a summary of London's famous department stores:

Harrods

Everybody knows Harrods! It's like being a kid in a toyshop where you can happily lose yourself for many hours. The Food Hall is a special favourite - you can taste a proper Italian "gelato" if you deserve a proper treat. Although Harrods can be pricey it's a bundle of fun, even just for window-shopping!

Liberty

Liberty became famous for dressmaking but is actually a general department store. It is not all that well-organised as a store but that is actually part of its charm. The homewares department is super. The store is in central London right off Regent Street.

Selfridges

Selfridges is heaven for the fashion-conscious and all those who want to browse their favourite designer brands under one roof. Don't miss the store's flamboyant window displays on Oxford Street. Selfridges is also known for its special events and exhibitions which change every season. The well-known Selfridges sales is also worth knowing about.

Harvey Nichols

This store is a haunt of London's jetset "Sloane Rangers" whom you'll catch a glimpse of in the 5th Floor Cafe! Harvey Nichols has a-0 year history and is especially highly-rated for beauty goods and fashion items.

Fortnum & Mason

This is one of London's best stores to buy classy gifts and souvenirs, especially edible delights like tea (there are hundreds of varieties), chocolate and English jams and preserves. Sample the store's tempting delights (such as a traditional English breakfast) in one of its restaurants. Fortnum & Mason is famous for fantastic hampers: take one with you to one of London's fabulous Royal Parks!

That completes this round-up of London's best stores. Happy shopping and be sure to check out London Hotels Insight for more great insider tips.

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