What better way to make up for the months of confinement imposed on much of the world because of the COVID-19 pandemic than to steal on a retail therapy trip? A week or two of fun shopping in an exotic city punctuated with stops at cool restaurants and cafes. This is precisely what the doctor ordered to make up for those boring years of restriction.
Buying things to activate the dopamine in your nervous system may be frowned upon by some, but making it through the worst of a pandemic is worth celebrating. To make the celebration even more memorable, why not take it outside your hometown?
Here are some cities that you should consider for a long time reunion with the shopping mall.
- Chicago
The Windy City has a lot going on as a shopping destination. First is the sheer number of merchants you will find here. With over 450 outlets to visit, there’s never a dull moment shopping in Chicago. You will have the ability to get thread from your favourite brand in addition to something unique for your pooch at one of the chosen pet boutiques. If you are a shoe fan, you will be satisfied with the big selection here.
When it is time to wake up and reward yourself for hours of tiring shopping, you can refuel at one of the city’s famous pizzerias. There are also a number of gourmet dinners waiting for you.
- Boston
Yes, Boston is known for its historic landmarks and the marathon it organizes every year. But it also offers a classic shopping experience for the discerning traveler. There’s an enormous network of malls to explore here and a number of beautiful boutiques off the beaten path. Crush Boutique is known for its collections from established international brands and up and coming talented designers.
If you want to pick up something from a more popular fashion brand like Christian Dior, look at Copley Place or the Prudential Center. You’ll find a selection of local eateries offering chowder and other luxury delights. On your way to a restaurant or other retail outlet, you can stop to dance to the tunes played by talented street performers.
- Seattle
If you are a tech enthusiast looking to pay homage to some of the biggest names in the industry, Seattle will be high on your wish list. But while you are there, you can even take the opportunity to browse the city’s many independent shops. If you are looking to spruce up your wardrobe with vintage clothing, you will find something tasteful at Ballard.
You can get some unique accessories to go with your newly acquired outfit at Fancy. This jeweler stocks unique, handmade items produced from ethically sourced materials. At the Fremont Vintage Mall, you’ll find charming antiques to match the décor of your home.
Seattle also offers the traveling shopper a special culinary experience. You can stop by Salumi Artisan Cured Meats for a long-lasting sandwich, then get farm-fresh ice cream from Kurt Farm for dessert.
- Vancouver
Vancouver is less than 150 miles from Seattle and also bears the Rain City moniker but offers buyers a wholly different prospect than Rain City. Surrounded by mountains, this city is very charming when it comes. No wonder it’s a popular filming location. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more fun backdrop for your shopping expedition.
And the city provides a shopping experience in itself with several mainstream and independent outlets to pick from. If you ask the residents Vancouver is the best place to shop, they will possibly direct you to Chinatown first. This is where you’ll find some interesting gold trinkets for sale at Ultimate 24K Gold Co. An in-house jeweler will help you create a special bracelet to remind you of your Vancouver sojourn.
It is also here that you’ll find a superb selection of Asian specialty shops and bakeries where you can recharge your batteries with well-priced pastries.
- San Francisco
California’s commercial and cultural hub is another location worth considering as a shopping destination. After filling in your selfies at the Golden Gate, you can begin your tour of the city, dropping by the Westfield San Francisco Center, Crocker Galleria, or another of the city’s malls.
Union Square offers a dynamic shopping experience like you will find anywhere else in the country. As well as a chain of high-end fashion brand stores, this location promises great dining options and great entertainment.
Outside Shopping
When you weigh you retail therapy options, the shopping experience should not be your only consideration. Look for other attractions in the city that will interest you. You should also consider the type of accommodation you can get there.
