Travel doesn’t have to be just for business and getaways. A chartered flight is the best way to get the perfect holiday gift for everyone on your list. A fabulous perk that comes with shopping destinations is that they offer more than outdoor markets and retail outlets—you also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in cultural activities. Pack your most comfortable, stylish walking shoes and get ready to exercise your wallet.
North America
New York City, New York, USA
If you’re in a time crunch and need to score some great holiday gifts, book a domestic flight to New York City. The city is a shopper’s paradise with a variety of options. If you seek the flagship stores of designers and high-end brands, wander Fifth Avenue. If you prefer mall amenities, check out the Time Warner Center. SoHo is stocked with boutiques full of vintage and unique items. Looking for something new? Try a pop-up shop in Union Square or Bryant Park.
Los Angeles, California, USA
If bundling up in winter gear to shop isn’t your idea of fun, ask the pilot to take you to Los Angeles’s Rodeo Drive. The outdoor temperatures are comfortable this time of year. Nearly every store along Rodeo Drive sells high-end brand-name merchandise and you’re bound to see at least one A-list personality.
In nearby Beverly Hills, The Grove at Farmers Market, or The Grove, is a popular outdoor shopping center with high-end stores that offers entertainment, live music, lights and adorned trees during the holidays. The shopping center offers concierge services that take care of anything from hands-free shopping to reservations to gift-wrapping.
Asia
Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong takes the holidays seriously. You’ll find its massive shopping malls decked out in holiday swag and giant caricatures. Times Square gives you 10 floors of luxury options. If you’re more interested in products you can only find in Asia, check out Langham Place, a “vertical mall” that stretches over 15 levels. When you need to take a break, relax by the 9-story fish tank.
If you want a more cultural experience and the opportunity to shop for more artisan, vintage or local products, the Jade Market and Temple Street Night Market will not disappoint.
Europe
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a winter wonderland during the holiday season with snow, lights, music and sweet smells. Partake in the festivities by visiting the area’s famous Christmas markets, or Weihnachtsdorfs. The Belvedere and Schönbrunn markets have regal palaces as their backdrops, making the experience more magical. Another beautiful castle with a market is Grafenegg, which is just outside Vienna.
The most popular Christmas market in the area is Rathausplatz’s Christkindlmarkt, a Bavarian-style market that receives more than three million visitors each year. Vendors offer a variety of handmade goods, toys, candles, soaps and unique gifts.
London, United Kingdom
Harrods is always a must when holiday shopping in London. It’s simple to spend the entire day at the world-famous shopping center. Take a break in the afternoon for an elegant tea service.
London is also home to the Southbank Centre Christmas Market, which you’ll find along the River Thames in Westminster. Each stand in the market looks like a charming dressed-up chalet. Here you’ll find handmade goods, entertainment, treats, an ice skating rink and a Finnish sauna overlooking the river.
Other Great Holiday Shopping Destinations
- El Rastro and Chueca District, Madrid, Spain
- Palmero Viejo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Fashion Quadrangle, Milan, Italy
- Prudential Center, Newbury Street, and Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, Massachusetts
- Golden Triangle, Paris, France