2009-11-25 13:15:08 - For the ultimate Christmas shopping experience one should consider taking a trip to New York.

New York City is one of the largest cities in the world and there is a plethora of stores, boutiques and unique shops that you cannot find anywhere else in the world. If you are not familiar with some of the many places that New York has to offer its visitors here is a guide to a few of the best places to go for Christmas shopping while in New York.

Our first stop is Macy’s. Macy’s first opened in 1857 and has since become one of the most famous places to shop at in New York. It is especially perfect for shoppers during the Christmas season. Macy's offers beautiful window displays to admire and places to eat when you want

to take a break from shopping to get lunch or dinner. Macy's has a large selection of merchandise for shoppers. Besides their large selection of items, shoppers will be happy to see the many discounts and specials that Macy’s has to offer. International visitors can even get a special discount card at the visitors’ centre. Macy's also offers a baggage and coat check for its shoppers. While one should expect larger than normal crowds during the Christmas season, for the least crowded time visit Macy's during the weekdays preferably before noon.

Bloomingdale's Department Store is next on our list of the best places to do your Christmas shopping while in New York. Bloomingdale’s offers shoppers a real New York shopping experience. Like Macy's, Bloomingdale’s offers its customers special perks like a coat check as well as a special gift card at the visitors’ centre if they purchase more than $50 worth of goods. Bloomingdale’s also offers shipping to your home as well as some great restaurants for visitors to dine at when they want to take a break from shopping. You can find Bloomingdale’s on Lexington Ave. between 59th and 60th Street.

FAO Schwarz Toy Store is probably one of the most popular shopping destinations you will find in New York. Even if you do not have children yourself you will enjoy taking a tour of this historic toy store. Here you will find just about any toy you could imagine plus some you would never dream of. Many are familiar with FAO Schwarz from the movie "Big" starring Tom Hanks where he plays on the large piano. One of the many perks FAO Schwarz has to offer its customers is personal shopper assistance. You can get this by scheduling an appointment or by requesting it when you show up. One great thing about it is it is free! FAO Schwarz also has treats for anyone with a sweet tooth. From milkshakes to pastries you can partake of their delicious treats in their ice cream parlour or take them with you as you shop throughout the store. FAO Schwarz is located at 767 Fifth Avenue.

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