Asia is a spectacular shopper’s paradise. From sparkling malls to sprawling markets, designer boutiques to duty-free stores, this dynamic region is transforming the global retail experience. In the past, shopping tourism simply meant stocking up with souvenirs at the end of a trip; today however, retail therapy is a reason for travel itself. Cities across Asia are now home to a captivating collection of commercial centres that allow visitors to satisfy their shopping urges. These cities are also great for family getaways that easily combine retail therapy and family experiences all in one. Read on to discover Asia's shopping hot spots to take advantage of during your next trip!
Spectacular Shanghai
Nowhere does Asia’s retail heart beat stronger than in Shanghai, China’s commercial capital. This booming city is home to Nanjing Road – a 5.5 kilometer-long retail haven with hundreds of stores, ranging to everything from the well known global brands to local shops. Nearby Huaihai Road, the “Oriental Champs-Élysées” of the east, is home to the world’s top labels.
Shopping in Shanghai is not all about glitzy department stores however; visitors seeking authentic Chinese retail culture should head to the city’s markets and bazaars, where they can pick up an array of local products including jewelry, silks, handicrafts and more. Shoppers can stay seamlessly connected to the city’s retail scene at Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World. Set in a 208-metre tower on Nanjing Road, this landmark hotel is directly connected to the New World City shopping mall where children will surely admire life-like wax figures of their favorite stars at Madame Tussauds. If guests need a break from shopping, they can soothe their senses in the spa, swim in the pool or dine at a choice of restaurants. Head over to Epicure On 45, the restaurant on the 45th floor of the Radisson Blu where views are unprecedented and dishes are even more pleasing, or the Sky Dome Bar for a cocktail with a view. Across the shopping mall, thrill seeking families can enjoy a day at People's Park Amusement Park, home to various speedy roller coasters and rides to try out!
Psst! Love snapping photos when you travel? Check out the top 6 photo spots in Shanghai.
Journey through Jaipur
Shopping in India is like nowhere else on Earth; its bustling bazaars elevate the retail journey from a transactional process to a multi-sensory experience. In Jaipur, Rajasthan’s exquisite “Pink City”, guests can discover many mesmerizing markets that encapsulate the color and culture of this royal region.
Jaipur is famous for its gems and guests can pick up an amazing selection of precious stones at the famous Johari Bazaar. Alternatively, brightly colored fabrics can be found at Tripolia Bazaar and authentic handicrafts are available at Chandpol. Children can find all sorts of pleasures in these markets - from toys to cotton candy and knick-knacks to traditional Jaipuri clothing. Make sure to get a taste of Jaipur street food, where every bite is a new flavor! For a modern retail experience, the city’s World Trade Park is a gleaming 11-storey shopping mall housing more than 500 stores.
Radisson Blu Jaipur is within walking distance of World Trade Park and just 2 kilometers from the airport, creating the ideal setting for retail breaks. Guests can experience the hotel’s Market Place restaurant before heading into Jaipur’s own maze of markets. The spa and rooftop pool are blissful places to chill out during the day.
Bustling Bangkok
No city epitomizes Asia’s retail tourism boom like Bangkok. Thailand’s capital is a thriving commercial centre where new malls seem to rise daily, each aiming to out-do the last. Popular downtown destinations like Siam Paragon, CentralWorld and Emporium have been complemented by exciting new additions including Terminal 21, EmQuartier and Icon Siam, the spectacular riverfront mega-mall. At Terminal 21, each floor is decorated and designed as per popular destinations around the world like Paris, Rome, Caribbean and more. Families can take a vacation within a vacation and children are sure to marvel at the sights in this mall, where each floor transports you to another corner of the world.
Bangkok isn’t all about shiny new shopping centres however; Chatuchak is one of Asia’s biggest markets with 15,000 stalls, while Pantip Plaza is a buzzing centre of electronics, Pratunam is a massive wholesale fabric centre, and MBK simply sells everything one could desire in a huge, multi-storey indoor complex.
Situated in Sukhumvit, Bangkok’s main downtown district, Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok puts guests in the heart of the action. Emporium, EmQuartier and Terminal 21 are all within walking distance, and the nearby BTS and MRT light rail networks make the entire city accessible. Meanwhile, the hotel’s spa, rooftop pool and a choice of restaurants allow guests to relax in style.
