Canada actually figures among the top luxury shopping destinations in the world; making it needless to emphasise the importance of holding a credit card and hiding it away safely when shopping temptations get a little too demanding. Not to mention that most hotels in Canada require a credit card when booking a room. Browse through the Card Offers from American Express Canada as they may offer you more flexibility. Travellers visiting this part of the world can check out what the popular shopping zones of the country have in store.
Bloor Street
The Bloor Street in down-town Toronto that is a luxury shopping area, with several popular international brands such as Gucci, Prada and Hermes setting shop on this ‘Mink Mile’. With over 700 shops lined along the street offering a range of shopping options, classy food and 124 spas, and even personal shopper services, this street is definitely where credit cards find their real use. With reputed chain stores, finest crystal, silver and chinaware on offer, designer wear boutiques, art galleries and five shopping centres housed in the street, this shopper’s paradise still retains its Victorian architecture, making the shopping experience even more enjoyable.
Halifax
Moving out of Toronto, several shopping options are available in Halifax, from the Halifax Shopping centre that is home to about 200 shops to the latest shopping zone at the Dartmouth crossing that features several boutiques, retail outlets and branded products. The Bayer’s Lake shopping district is a retailer zone, home to over 400 business firms featuring retail outlets, international labels and restaurants. The Spring Garden Road and Bishop’s landing are two other interesting shopping zones replete with jewellery and speciality stores where travellers can purchase memorabilia and gifts for their dear ones, or even a gift themselves a piece of carved crystal by simply swiping their credit cards, if they can afford the spend.
Ottawa
Visitors to Ottawa are treated to an outdoor shopping experience, as the shopping zones can be explored while enjoying a casual stroll through the terrain. Exclusive boutiques, local handcrafted items and vintage collectables from this city are worth exploring. Budget shopping options at the discount shops and departmental stores offer value-for-money deals, in case visitors plan to spend some time in the city. Credit cards are accepted at the high-end malls and restaurants here. Don’t forget the many rewards you could be earning if you used your card for travelling expenses. Westboro Village, ByWard Market, Bank Street Promenade and the country’s first mall – the Spark Street Mall are all easily accessible, with travellers enjoying the evening visits. All shopping areas have decent restaurant, pub and café options, allowing shoppers to rest a while before continuing on their shopping spree.