SHOPPING AROUND THE GLOBE

Imagine you had the dosh to visit some of the best shopping capitals in the world. Here's what you're missing…

Paris

Paris is the place to go to for fashion with numerous designer names and shops, including Cartier, Chanel and Versace, adorning many of the streets. There is so much on offer with such beautiful and elegant gifts to purchase that, at times, you'll find it difficult to keep control of purse strings!

There is more to Paris than clothes stores, and you will quickly discover to your delight that there are charming glassware shops offering divine glass blown vases, paperweights and perfume bottles with exquisitely delicate designs. There are some marvelous Marqetry works to be found. These are paintings solely carved from natural wood costing at least 150F.

Paris offers not only the beauty of the Eiffel Tower, and other magnificent buildings, but also beautiful souvenirs that will forever remind you of the city of love. sheena evans

Cairo

Shadowy souks and clamouring bazaars make for a shopping scene straight out of Arabian Nights. I discovered you could explore the meandering alleyways of Khan el-Khalili, and pick up aromatic herbs, spices and incense for pennies. The perfume bazaar in Souk al-Attrarin is an aromatherapeutic delight with the possibility of creating your own blend of fragrant essences all to be stored inside an exquisite handcrafted bottle. Perfume prices do vary enormously, but many bottles start under a pound.

Egyptian cotton is the best in the world and it's cheap. My recent purchase of a galabyya (traditional kaftan robe) cost £5 and will last me a lifetime!

Leather sandals start at around £4, and authentic chequered headgear/scarves go for a pound. Add a velvety fez hat for a couple of quid and you have found yourself the perfect fancy dress outfit.

If you must, stuffed camels begin at 50p. Whatever you do- haggle, haggle, haggle! annette crummack

London

Why go abroad for a spot of retail therapy, when we've got our very own cosmopolitan capital at the other end of the M1?

London offers everything one needs for a shopping extravaganza with endless high street favourites like Top Shop, Warehouse and Hennes. Visit Selfridges, the largest store on Oxford Street and hob-nob with the rich and famous in Harvey Nicks and Harrods.

Recover after a hard day's shop and hit the wide range of trendy bars and clubs around the city. jennifer robson

Sydney

A free spirited, vibrant city built around one of the world's most beautiful harbours, with scores of sparkling blue beaches within easy reach of its cosmopolitan heart.

You'll find a place called 'The Rocks', a beautiful waterfront precinct that offers a wide selection of dining, shopping and entertainment. The shops here include all the world famous store names and, unbelievably, anything that you want is available. Though there are varying degrees of price structures for many products, the bargains can be found if you look hard enough!

Markets are open on weekends and they specialise in Australian homewares, antiques and gifts.

While in Oz, enjoy the genuine warmth of the climate, the people and become part of the relaxed way of life before heading back to dreary Britain! nikki cryer

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