New York's Best Shopping Districts

New York City is one of the premier shopping destinations in the world

New York City is one of the best shopping destinations in the world. Your options are limitless from high-end retailers and department stores to farmers markets and specialty shops, whatever your heart desires, you will be able to find it in the Big Apple.

Fifth Avenue is synonymous with extravagant shopping around the world. Most luxury brands, including Armani, Cartier, Gucci, Harry Winston, Louis Vuitton, Prada and Tiffany and Co have storefronts on Fifth Avenue between 49th Street and 60th Street. Fifth Avenue is also home to upscale department and specialty stores like Saks, FAO Schwartz and The Apple Store. Any fashioned-focused tourist worth their Manolo's, knows no sophisticated shopping spree in New York City is complete without visiting the "4 B's Designer Shopping": Bloomingdale's, Bergdorf's, Bendel's and Barneys. For those with cashmere taste on a small budget, seek out Sample Sales and Trunk Shows which offer deeply discounted designer items.

Technophiles will want to test out their haggling skills at the JandR Electronics flagship store with a city block full of the latest gadgets. If shutterbugs can't find what they are looking for, you can usually negotiate good deals at 17th Street Photo Supply or find refurbished items at BandH Photo SuperStore in Midtown.

For those who love brand name bargain, head downtown to the Financial District to Century 21 and Daffy's and search through department store designer leftovers to find that perfect fit. The selection ranges from Hanes to Hermes for men, women and the home at more than 40% retail prices. Across the street, Syms offers a fantastic selection of designer men and women's suits, wool and leather jackets, shoes and accessories from Anne Klein, Cole Haan, DKNY and Liz Claiborne for under $200. Be sure to check the websites for printable online coupons for further discounts. While downtown, the South Street Seaport is a premier shopping destination, but expect to pay full retail prices.

For those who simply cannot resist the allure of knock-off designer purses and sunglasses, head down to Chinatown. Despite that fact that law enforcement investigates this type of business, it's only illegal to sell, but not to buy. Canal Street between Lafayette and Bowery is lined with small stalls peddling replica designer handbags, wallets, sunglasses, watches and DVDs out in the open. If you don't see what you want, ask. Canal Street is a cash-only environment, so use common sense when making transactions and don't be afraid to thoroughly inspect the goods and haggle like crazy.

If you get bit by the bargain hunting bug, take a day trip to Paramus Park Mall, Garden State Mall or Jersey Gardens Factory Outlets in New Jersey, which are easily accessible by public transport. Where purchases made in New York City attract an 8.8% sales tax, New Jersey does not charge sales tax on clothing and prices are generally lower outside of the New York City.

Manhattan offers many alternatives to mass market retailers and designer boutiques. Chelsea Markets, Antique Garage in Chelsea and the Green Flea Markets on the Upper West Side are great for handicrafts, antiques and vintage collectibles. If it's bohemian chic that you're after, browse the shops in St. Mark's Place in the East Village and Bleeker Street and Christopher Street in Greenwich Village. The streets of Soho are filled with not only brand name retailers, but also tons of street vendors offering that unique New York souvenir.

No matter what your style, New York City will satisfy. For more in-depth descriptions, check out New York Magazine's neighbourhood shopping guide and maps on their website: