Showing posts with label shopping. Show all posts

Duty Free Jewellery Shopping On Cruise Ships: Is It Worth it?

There’s something enticing about browsing your favourite perfumes, some new designer sunglasses or sparkling jewellery as the waves roll beneath you. The thought of picking up a beautiful piece while gliding across the ocean adds an extra layer of excitement. Cruise ships often market these items as “duty free,” hinting at instant savings, and the displays are designed to catch your eye at every turn. Yet the thrill of shopping at sea can also cloud judgment. Not every shiny deal is genuinely cheaper, and the quality of some pieces can vary more than you expect. Knowing what to look for makes all the difference when deciding whether to indulge.

What “Duty Free” Really Means


jewellery

When jewellery is labelled duty-free on a cruise, it generally means that local taxes, such as VAT, are not applied. This can reduce the price compared to some high-street stores, but it doesn’t automatically make the item a bargain. Well-known brands often maintain fixed global pricing, so the discount may be negligible. For gemstone jewellery, the value can swing significantly based on cut, clarity, and origin, meaning two rings that look similar might carry very different costs and levels of quality.

The Pros

Cruise ship jewellery shops bring convenience and a curated selection that you might not easily find on land. You can explore a range of pieces in one place, try them on, and compare designs while enjoying the journey. Exclusive promotions sometimes make a luxury watch or bracelet slightly more affordable than onshore, and the experience itself, shopping with ocean views and attentive staff, can feel special. Many cruise lines, including Fred Olsen Cruises, are known for their glittering boutiques, often highlighting themed jewellery collections or limited editions, adding a unique opportunity to find something you wouldn’t see elsewhere.

The Cons

watches

Returns and exchanges can be complicated when you’re sailing between countries, so mistakes or misjudged purchases can become frustrating. Gemstone quality isn’t always consistent, and some “discounts” are smaller than advertised once you compare prices beforehand. Impulse buying is easy when the display sparkles and staff are persuasive, so checking prices online or in local shops for your watches or jewellery before your trip can prevent regret.

The Verdict

Duty Free jewellery can be worthwhile, particularly for branded watches or pieces with clear, verified value. The combination of convenience and occasional savings can make a purchase feel rewarding. However, the key is informed shopping: understand the market value, inspect quality, and avoid being swayed purely by the glamour of buying at sea. With preparation, a cruise can offer both a memorable journey and a jewellery find that truly represents value.
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10 Strategies for Capturing Customer Attention With Your Window Display Design

When it comes to retail, the importance of first impressions cannot be overstated. A well-designed window display has the power to attract potential customers, pique their curiosity, and ultimately drive sales. In fact, studies show that customers make up their minds about a store within the first seven seconds of entering and a significant portion of that first impression is formed by the window display.

window dispay
With so much riding on that initial impression, it's important for retailers to invest time and effort into retail design solutions creating a compelling and effective window display. Here are some strategies for capturing customer attention with your window display design:

Tell A Story

A great window display should tell a story that captivates the viewer's imagination and draws them in. Consider using props, lighting, and colour schemes to create a narrative that showcases your brand or product in a unique and interesting way. For example, a jewellery store could create a display featuring a glamorous evening out, complete with a sparkling necklace, elegant earrings, and a luxurious clutch.

Keep It Simple

While it's important to be creative and eye-catching, a cluttered or overly complicated display can actually turn customers away. Focus on one or two key elements and make them stand out. A simple but well-executed display can often be more effective than a busy one.

Make It Interactive

Engage customers with a display that invites them to touch, try on, or interact with your product. For example, a shoe store could create a display featuring a miniature basketball court, complete with basketballs and sneakers for customers to try on and shoot hoops in.

Use Lighting To Your Advantage

Lighting can be a powerful tool in creating a dramatic and attention-grabbing display. Consider using spotlights or coloured lights to highlight key elements of your display and create a mood or atmosphere that complements your brand or product.

Keep It Fresh

A stale or outdated display can signal to customers that your store is not up-to-date or innovative. Keep your displays fresh and current by changing them regularly, incorporating seasonal or topical themes, and experimenting with new ideas and techniques.

Consider The Customer's Perspective

Take a step back and look at your display from the customer's perspective. Is it easy to see and understand? Does it make sense in the context of your store and brand? Is it visually appealing? By putting yourself in the customer's shoes, you can better understand how to create a display that will resonate with them.

Be Authentic

Your window display should reflect your brand's values and personality. Avoid trying to be something you're not or copying someone else's style. Instead, focus on what makes your brand unique and find creative ways to showcase that in your display.

Keep it relevant

Make sure your window display is relevant to your target audience and the products you sell. Consider who your ideal customer is and what they are interested in, and tailor your display to appeal to them.

Don't Forget About The Details

Attention to detail can make all the difference in creating a polished and professional-looking display. Make sure everything is neat and tidy, and pay attention to small touches like signage, props, and background elements.

Track Your Results

Finally, track your results and measure the impact of your window display. Keep an eye on sales figures and customer feedback to see how your display is performing and make adjustments as needed.

In conclusion, a well-designed window display can be a powerful tool for capturing customer attention and driving sales whether you have a chain of stores or you are fitting out your first shop.  By following these strategies and taking the time to create a compelling and effective display, retailers can make a lasting impression on potential customers and set themselves apart from the competition.

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Give Your Home Business A Boost With E-Commerce

An ever-increasing amount of entrepreneurs are recognising the benefits of working from home and more and more people are looking for ways to take their small businesses online. With such a wide variety of online e-commerce platforms to choose from, where does one start?

Finding the right e-commerce platform for your business is a critical decision that can make or break your online sales experience. Many e-commerce businesses got their start on complicated platforms that can be cumbersome to use and may require specialist knowledge to run effectively. Shopify is a simple and effective e-commerce platform that comes with built-in tools that make it easy to perform a Magento migration without losing any of your functionality or sales data.

Why Is Adding An E-Commerce Platform To Your Website So Important? 



Recent trends have shown a tremendous shift in the makeup of the employment market. More and more people are becoming self-employed entrepreneurs or freelancers and technologies like e-commerce platforms are absolutely critical to the effective sustaining of these trends. The benefits offered by a home-owned business and those offered by technologies like e-commerce platforms go hand in hand.

E-commerce has made it possible for entrepreneurs to effectively earn an income from the comfort of their homes. Being able to sell products via the internet reduces the overall operating costs of your small business to a level that is much more acceptable. Other advantages, like lower staffing requirements, is another strong argument for adding e-commerce solutions to your small company.

How Do E-Commerce Platforms Work?


E-commerce platforms essentially provide the nuts and bolts that are required to make an online business work. The trick is that the nuts and bolts are provided in a convenient package that almost anybody can understand and use. Getting your own e-commerce shop set up can take as little as five minutes and a few clicks. Most e-commerce platforms have developed tutorials that make it easier to perform the initial set-up or transfer your shop from another e-commerce provider.

Once the initial set-up procedure has been completed, you can easily manage your products and price lists from the central admin panel or back-end of your e-commerce platform. Most platforms offer different subscription plans that allow users to select the options they need when they need them. This scalability is very important as it allows businesses to grow into the platform at their own pace and it leads to reduced monthly running costs.

No matter what type of business you are running, there is a scalable e-commerce platform that will meet your needs. Ensuring that you keep up with modern trends is vital to your success in the world of e-commerce because clients are spoilt for choice and competition is strong. Choosing the right e-commerce platform can give you the advantage that you need in order to beat the competition and close the deal. Why not investigate your options and add online sales to your business, you may just be surprised by the results!

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London - Vintage Markets And Car Boots Sales You Can't Miss

The Beatles, Queen Elizabeth, cricket, James Bond, the red telephone box – all things traditionally associated with Britain. However, perhaps more authentically, that should be fish and chips, accents, tea, queuing, car boot sales and a love for all things vintage.



Of course, you can't get much more British than London – home to Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the iconic red bus. Moreover, there is such a wide variety of vintage markets and car boot sales in the capital that it's easy to find a different style to experience each day of the week. There are both specialist markets and more general street markets, so there really is something for everyone.

Old Spitalfields Market



Now, when we say vintage, you may envisage a range of ionic '70s garments or an LP from your favourite artist – but, here, we’re talking clothes, children’s toys, home items and even artisan food products. This market received a major revamp prior to the turn of the millennium and has since transformed into a one-stop shopping destination. This rejuvenated market can be found in the heart of East London, just off Commercial Street.

On Thursdays, a specific antique market runs all day long, offering a bonus cluster of stalls awash with collectables you could find yourself just dying to get your hands on. Five minutes away from this vibrant vendor is the multicultural Shepherd's Bush, the perfect neighbourhood in which to stay overnight during a jaunt in the capital.

The Dorsett Hotel in this area provides an ideal base after a busy day of scouring the markets, while there's also Dorsett Hotel, City of London accommodation if you would prefer somewhere more central.

Hackney Flea Market



Antique furniture is back in trend, and Hackney Flea Market is the place to find it. This monthly market is held at Abney Hall on Stoke Newington's Church Street, and if you’re on the hunt for a bargain, you’re in luck, as you’re sure to find throwback pieces stretching back to the '60s here. If you’re not after furniture, there are also stalls selling vintage fabrics, ceramics, prints and some amazing jewellery.

St Augustine’s Car Boot Sale

Found in Kilburn Park, this is arguably London's most famous car boot sale. It has been growing rapidly since its birth in 1996 and continues to attract a trendy crowd on the lookout for hot bargains. If you rummage thoroughly enough, you're sure to find a treasure, whether it is an unspoilt violin, vintage cake stand or virtually brand new Laura Ashley tea set.

Portobello Market



At the south end of this wonderful street market, you'll encounter some pristine antiques and, at the north end, you’ll find a manner of small collectables and goods you’re likely to describe as bric-a-brac. In the middle, the aroma of fresh fruit and vegetables is sure to consume you.

On Saturdays, masses of traders erect over 2,000 stalls here and sell everything from collectables to vintage clothing to books to various fabrics. Understandably, this market attracts a large crowd with people vying for bargains or one-off unique pieces. The market is situated on Portobello Road, north of Notting Hill.

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How To Save Money When Shopping Online

Consumerism has appeared to increase in recent times. Technology has indeed made the world a small global village because you can shop online for certain goods regardless of geographical location. The use of the internet, therefore, offers you with a wider selection of goods and services. It also offers you many opportunities that will enable you to save the pounds. Here are tips on how to save money when shopping online.



Do you need it?

 Before you commit yourself to buying anything online, it is important for you to take a moment and think about it. Do you really need the item and are you getting the best price? At times it may cheaper to buy the item locally rather than buying online, so always shop around as making rushed decisions could cost you. 

 Compare prices

You should look for sites that compare prices. This will help you make the best decision. There are loads of different comparison sites out there depending on the product you are looking for.  Top tip - one way is to type the product you are after into Google and go to the shopping section for the results, this will bring up prices from Google shopping.

 Shipping costs

It is also important to consider the shipping costs. Some companies do not charge anything when they ship the product whilst others will charge. When buying a product online, check out the total cost with delivery added.  With free or cheaper delivery you may not get your product instantly but the discount on delivery will save you a lot over time.

 Ditch the brand mentality

Another way to save money is to ditch the brand mentality. Certain big name brands charge a lot for their items and it's not because of quality. Money goes into advertising and building the brand name. If you are watching what you spend, look for cheaper alternatives. If, however, only that brand will do, spread the cost with catalogues that offer pay weekly or pay monthly credit options. If you have bad credit this may be one way of paying for a big purchase.


Shop in the sales

 Shopping in the sales is a great way of saving money online. Sign up to companies email lists to be the first to know about offers and sales, so you can grab a bargain quickly before items go out of stock. 

Lastly, always think twice when giving out your debit card details online. Some unscrupulous dealers might use this information to defraud you. Do not just buy from any website just because you are shopping online. To shop safely online, you should, first of all, determine the authenticity of the websites in question before making payment. Look for the padlock symbol on the payment page for example and pay using a credit card or Paypal as you will have more protection than paying with your debit card.  Even after you have made a payment, it is advisable that you check your bank statements to determine how much you have been charged. Bring up anything out of the ordinary with your bank straight away.

So here are some ways on how to save money when shopping online. Do you know any hints or tips?

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5 Ways To Complain Effectively

When it comes to spending our money, we want to be getting the best quality of product and the best customer service. When this doesn’t happen, it can be rather frustrating, especially when we have forked out our hard earned cash on such things. Some people are too shy to complain but to avoid others having the same experience, complaining is definitely something you should do.


However, complaining effectively can be quite stressful.  You want to be sure you are in the right and then know how to do it properly. So here are my five ways on how to complain effectively when something goes wrong. 

1. Know what you are talking about

Firstly know what you are talking about. Many companies will try to help you as best as they can - but some companies will try to get rid of you as quickly as possible and assume you don’t know consumer regulations. Read about the Consumer Rights Act 2015 so you know your rights before you make a complaint. 

2. Know what you want to achieve

For example, if you had a bad experience with something you bought before you ring or turn up in person at customer services you should know exactly what it is you want to achieve from the complaint. Sometimes companies offer you certain things to resolve the complaint as quickly as possible, such as a promise it won't happen again and compensation such as vouchers. Some people take these then find themselves feeling a little frustrated that they didn’t achieve what they set out to. Knowing how you want to proceed means you can continue until you receive your desired outcome. 

 If a complaint is resolved properly, and the company goes above and beyond what they need to then it's always good to give feedback to their head office too. A site such as Head Office Finder will give you contact details for numerous supermarkets such as the Asda Head Office contact number.

3. Use a complaint sandwich

Putting your negative complaint between two positives often helps it become resolved and can let the person you are complaining to see where you are coming from. The sandwich is made of three main ingredients, the 'ear opener' to make the listener sympathetic to your cause, some 'meat' that includes your complaint and suggested solution, and finally a sweet-sounding 'digestive' to motivate the listener to advocate on your behalf.

4. Be polite

Whilst you may be very cross, being calm and polite usually resolves things sooner in my experience. Social media complaints are often littered with posts full of CAPS Lock, excessive punctuation - and often, shockingly, foul language. At the end of the day, the person you are speaking to usually hasn’t played any part in the situation you are complaining about and it isn’t fair to talk to them like this.  Remain polite and they will be sure to help you to the best of their ability. If you are rude and threatening, they may terminate communication which they are well within their rights to do.

5. Set a deadline

You don’t want your complaint to go on forever and you are entitled to an explanation, if not an apology, within a certain time period. When making your complaint, give them a deadline in which you want it to be resolved so they don’t keep dragging it on. With a deadline in place, you’ll often find things resolve in a satisfactory way.

Whilst us British people like to complain about the weather, sport and other things like that, it seems we are often reluctant to actually complain when receiving shoddy service. I hope these tips help you in the future when considering making a complaint.

 *Collaborative post.
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Grab A Luxury Bargain With BidKit For eBay

We all like a bargain don't we, whether that is grabbing a designer coat in the January sales or getting reduced bread in the supermarket. I mean how many of us can resist a bargain?

 If you like shopping on eBay, there is a tool that you may find useful to grab those amazing bargains - Bidkit. Bidkit is a website and also an app that makes searching on eBay so much easier. 

On the left-hand side of the website, are the important sections. 
Local Deals, allow you to search for items within a 50-mile radius via postcode. This is a great idea for collection only bargains, often those items that are too big, awkward or valuable to post like bikes, cars and fragile items. You can sort the results by nearest to you, ending soonest or newly listed. Perfect for picking up that second-hand car or vintage china.


Spelling Mistakes. Did you know that there are an enormous array of items on eBay that never reach a high bid because the item is spelt wrong? The Spelling Mistakes section on BidKit helps you use this to your advantage. For example, you may find a Swarovski Crystal necklace, a Tag Heuer watch or Converse trainers for the kids that are listed incorrectly, with a spelling mistake in the brand's name. BidKit allows you to input the keyword and then it will find you misspellings you can use to save you money.


Daily Deals allows you to browse eBay daily deals whilst Unwanted Gifts and Unwanted Prizes searches through these sections for you. A minimum and maximum prize are useful as well as optional keywords.


Like New is a great category as it allows you to search for those items newly listed and tagged 'like new' or 'worn once'. When you are looking for an item that is in super condition but you still want to save the pennies this category is invaluable. Maybe you want to buy that designer handbag but don't have the cash to pay for a brand new one then this is the category for you. 


New Buy It Now lets you search for items that have only just been listed whilst Zero Bids shows you items that have, you guessed it, zero bids. This last category is brilliant when you haven't got the time to wait until the end of the auction, as you can see what's ending soonest too. Being able to search for these newly listed in the Like New category means you can be the first to nab a bargain. 


Nighttime Auction allows you to search for items that finish when most people are asleep. You can search for items finishing 1am to 7am so it's a great way of finding that must have item when most people won't be on eBay. 


Penny Auctions allows you to find auctions that are currently listed as 1p with free p & p whilst Zero Bids allows you to search for items with no bids.

Lastly, Expensive Auctions lets you search for the most expensive auctions on eBay. Did you know that there are a number of villas for sale as well as luxury cars? I found a house for £610,000 and a Porsche 911 for £65,000. 

 Bidkit is available from the website online and with the Bidkit app available for IOS so you can bid on the go. It's simple to use, free of charge and of course, it could also save you a fortune! If you are looking for a bargain, check out the website, you have nothing to lose and you could have much to gain. 

 *PR collaboration

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48 Hours In New York

New York is one of the best cities in the world and one of the biggest, so where do you start when you only have 48 hours in New York? Here is my own personal guide on what to do when you only have 48 hours in The Big Apple. 

Where to stay

Times Square

New York is made up fo a number of vibrant neighbourhoods, from Queens to The Bronx, Brooklyn to Staten Island, but when you want to be in the centre of everything it's hard to beat Manhattan. With a wealth of restaurants and tourist attractions on your doorstep, you are in the perfect area for packing it all in.

Check into one of the hotels like the Casablanca Hotel around the corner from Times Square or the Library Hotel on Madison Avenue. If you are on a tight budget Pod 51 has petite but perfectly formed rooms.

 Day one

 Morning

 View from The High Line

To have a view over Manhattan you have a number of options, from the top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Centre to feeling like King Kong with a view from the top of the Empire State Building. 

 For stunning views try the One World Observatory the tallest building in the Western hemisphere. As you ride to the top watch over 500 years of New York evolving in under 60 seconds. After your visit and with your feet firmly on the floor head over to the 9/11 Memorial Museum. The moving memorial is etched with the name of those that died in 9/11 and the museum is a tribute to the victims, in the area where the towers once stood. 

Next, walk The High Line on Manhattan's west side, a public park based on a historic freight line, taking in the street art and views. 

 Lunch

 For lunch near the High Line, check out these recommendations on where to eat, such as Bill's Bar and Burger, one of the Meatpacking districts less pretentious places to eat, or Toro, a Tapas bar in an industrial-chic space. 

 Afternoon

The Whitney Museum Of American Art

If you love modern art, like me then the Whitney Museum Of American Art is a must do. Spend some time browsing over 21,000 works of art with the emphasis on works by living artists.

 Evening
Broadway

That evening have an early dinner, check out the recommendations on where to eat like a local in NYC then take in a theatre show on Broadway. To get the hottest tickets such as Book Of Mormon or Hamilton book way in advance. You can get bargains on the day if you don't mind queuing at the TKTS booth in Duffy Square, but if you are only in New York for 48 hours then you may not want to wait in line. 

 Did you know that in a New York minute over 25 Broadway tickets are sold and over 1000 hot dogs are eaten? No, neither did I! Check out this nifty New York minute page here.

 Day two

 Morning
Ellis Island

Start your day by heading over to Ellis Island in New Jersey. For over 60 years it was the gateway to the USA and saw millions of newly arrived immigrants pass through its doors. It's amazing to think that approximately 40 per cent of all US citizens can trace one of their ancestors to arriving at Ellis Island. Don't forget to book tickets in advance on the website or you may not get availability. 

 The same ferry takes you over to the Statue of Liberty, different options cover a visit to the crown and pedestal.  

 Lunch


Statue of Liberty

You'll want to spend time exploring Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty so eat in the Ellis or Crown cafe for simple burgers, pizzas and chicken dishes.

 Afternoon

Shop for souvenirs

Now you are fed and watered spend some time splashing the cash in the fabulous shops. From Bloomingdales to Macy's, Tiffanys to  Saks Fifth Avenue, New York is a mecca for shoppers everywhere. If you have kids take them to the world famous FAO Schwarz for a huge selection of toys and games. My personal favourite stores are Bath and Body Works and Sephora for brilliant beauty products.

 Don't forget the quirky souvenirs, I mean who doesn't want an I Heart NY fridge magnet?!

 Evening
Chinatown

New York is such a cosmopolitan city so top off your 48 hours in New York with something different - Karaoke in Chinatown. The K One Karaoke bar is particularly cool with its funky 3-D artwork and neon lights. 

 Once you've sung your heart out to Gloria Gaynor then stop by in one of the restaurants such as Mission Chinese Food, one of the city's most talked about Chinese/American influenced restaurants or for something more traditional the Peking Duck House which sells, you guessed it Peking Duck.

pin for later

Finish your 48 hours in New York off with a cocktail at Fig 19, a hidden speakeasy bar with an amazing vibe, accessed from an unmarked door in an art gallery.

 So this is my 48 hours in New York. Let me know if you have been to New York. What would you recommend?

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If Your Short On Time Try A New Shopping Service - Slick Shoppa

What to buy the person who has everything? It's a time old dilemma and one that never seems to get any easier. Maybe you have a friend that is difficult to buy for or maybe someone in your family has everything they need. When it comes to present time you spend ages wracking your brains and resort to the same old boring presents.


Here is where Slick Shoppa can help. Slick Shoppa was set up by Adam Bigham, after being frustrated spending hours online looking for presents for his difficult to buy for father. He identified that there were a lot of great products out there that don't reach the top of the search engines and could see a gap in the market for someone to do the searching for him and come up with some original ideas. Ideas for gifts that weren't sponsored but gifts that were just perfect and also well priced.

How the website works is that you register and submit a request, then genuine humans do all the hard work for you and find that perfect gift. The best part of the service is... it's completely free.

So I put it to the test.



First, you register for the site. Then you log in with your details.







The next step is to submit a new request and fill in a few details. Then you sit back and wait for an email from the company with their recommendations.

Rather than use fancy algorithms they use real people to do the hard work, finding that just so gift for the best price.

I was recommended:-

1. A vintage brooch by Rock My Vintage

2. A diamante gold vermeil pendant by Eternal Collection

3. A blue woven scarf by Joules





If you thought they have great recommendations or weren't exactly what you needed you can leave feedback. You can also ask for ideas as well.

Diamante gold vermeil necklace by Eternal Collection £25

So what did I think of the recommendations you may wonder? Now my mum would never wear a brooch or a scarf but they were spot on with the necklace they choose for her as it is exactly her style. I think the more specific you are the better results you will get. All the recommendations were under budget and I liked the fact that wrote the reasons why they choose each item. They also noted if there was a sale on or special deals on the item.

Could the service be improved? I think slightly more specific questions could help with the matching process, specifically lifestyle, such as hobbies and interests, and sense of style. My mum loves high fashion and has a style that I would describe as fun, but I wouldn't describe her as elegant (sorry mum!), so she wouldn't wear a scarf or vintage brooch. Adam and his team are looking to make the questions more specific to the type of present but until then I would recommend being as detailed as possible.

I think the Slick Shoppa site can certainly save you time and money. It also gave me a killer recommendation at a great price from a company I would never have found normally. Although not entirely perfect, it is a work in progress and it's free so what do you have to lose!

Recommended.

*PR collaboration
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Your 2016 Christmas Shopping Guide To New York

So it's nearly that time of year again, CHRISTMAS TIME! Hasn't it come around quickly? Now I like my luxuries that is no secret, but I don't like to waste money either.  In fact, I would say I love value for money luxury. This brings me to Christmas shopping and saving money. What is the best way to save money on your Christmas shopping I hear you ask? A trip to New York I answer! Yes, you heard correctly but hear me out on this one...

Firstly November is a great time to get a cheap flight to New York. At this time of year Black Friday deals mixed with the pre-Christmas sales means flights are super cheap. Looking at the Cheap Flights website yesterday I found a flight to NYC for £339 direct with Iberia going on the 6th of December. When you consider the price of an anytime train ticket to Edinburgh from my nearest train station Bridgend, going on the same date, is £367.20 you can see the bargain to be had.

Skating at the Rockefeller centre

Secondly many items are cheaper in the US, specifically US brands, so if you are a fan of Hollister or Vans, or looking to buy Disney or Dreamworks gifts for the kids you can grab a bargain in the US. Even when you add in the sales tax that they charge these items below are still much cheaper. Also, did you know that in New York items of clothing under $110 are zero rated for sales tax?  Not a lot of people know that.

Another thing to think about is the dollar rate.  Now we all know that the dollar rate has fluctuated recently due to Brexit and the US election but it looks like it is on the up again. 

Of course, there is so much more to do in New York other than shopping. From ice skating in Central Park to looking at the amazing window displays on 5th Avenue, to the traditional all year round attractions of the Empire State Building, The Statue Of Liberty and seeing a show on Broadway. There is so much to do in New York in the Winter.

Cheapflights has collaborated with the Post Office Travel Money to create this infographic below, a Christmas shopping guide to New York. So with all the reasons I've given, go and book your flights now... and buy me an Iphone 7 please with all the money you've saved!

po_xmas_shopping_guide_final_150dpi *PR collaboration
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Saving Money With My Favourite Voucher Codes

I don't like to waste money so If I am doing any form of online shopping I always look out for a voucher code like The White Company promo codes you can get from My Favourite Voucher Codes.

 My Favourite Voucher Codes have over 10,000 live codes and coupons to use to save you money. From food and drink voucher codes to toys and games coupons, from jewellery and accessories codes to cinema, tours and events coupons. Something for everyone really. 

 The White Company promo codes range from 15% off online orders and free standard delivery to 20% off online orders when you spend £100. The codes change as and when there are good deals on and it's always worth checking out the site when you are about to make a purchase.

 These are my favourite items from The White Company at the moment.
Beaumont Bed from £ 795.00

This Beaumont statement bed with contemporary lines is beautifully made and would make a stunning centrepiece to a bedroom. I really love the simplicity of the metal work canopy, and the neutral colours of the room decoration.


Cashmere Rib Front Cardigan - Cloud Marl £159

For some everyday luxury why not treat yourself to this cashmere rib cardigan? I really adore the waterfall design of this cashmere cardigan which flows beautifully and can be easily layered over almost anything. Cashmere is warm and super soft too. A great investment for Autumn/Winter.


Petersham Sofa Velvet - Stone Velvet From £ 2,100.00

This Petersham made to order sofa in a velvet fabric, looks so comfy and soft I had to include it in my choices. With low scatter back cushions and a choice of 8 colours this sofa in a classic design is also understated so that it can blend in with every lounge.

So these are my top picks with The White Company at the moment, and if you use the 20% off voucher with My Favourite Voucher Codes you can save a considerable amount of money.

 If you are a traveller like me, I've also noticed some great deals on hotels with Hotels Combined, Hilton and Expedia amongst others. My Favourite Voucher Codes is certainly worth checking out, and as they donate 20% of their profits to charity too you are even helping  those in need as you shop!

 Tell me, do you use coupons and codes to save money?

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My Designer Wish list

My wardrobe is mainly high street clothes and accessories although I do love a bit of luxury including designer bags and stunning precious gold and platinum jewellery.

If I had the money I admit I would be a real label junkie. As I said I love luxury but I don't like to waste my hard earned cash so I am a smart buyer. I look for online auction site bargains, and I always check out the charity shops if I am in an affluent area, as you never know what exciting bargains you will find.

There are also companies online that sell pre-owned and second-hand highly desirable items with finance options available so you can spread the cost. One such company is Xupes. Xupes sell a range of luxury goods from beautiful fine art and rare antiques, precious diamond jewellery and vintage watches to designer branded bags from the likes of Chanel, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton. 

 I'm afraid my husband has designer tastes too. In fact, he has no problems spending his money on quality, luxurious well-made items that he wants. Of course we don't have a bottomless pit of money, I wish we did, and he always lives in hope of winning the lottery, so until then here is my designer wish list from Xupes. 


Firstly, I'd pick this gorgeous ceramic IWC watch for the husband. This 'Top Gun' pilot watch would be a perfect gift for my him as he is learning to fly. This pre-owned watch in excellent condition is priced at £9795, a big saving on the RRP of £13,900.





I love the vibrant blue of this Louis Vuitton Speedy 25 pre-owned luxury bag. Made from blue leather with a gold-coloured zip, this bag is priced at £599. A snip at the price and perfect on the arm of any self-respecting fashionista. 


This Cartier Tank Francaise watch in 18ct white gold is in excellent condition, complete with box. Very pretty this gorgeous watch is set with small diamonds and is priced at £13,995. I would love to put this on my Christmas list!


This beautiful classic tennis bracelet has 58 round brilliant cut diamonds mounted in pure rare platinum. A classic design and an investment. Priced at £6995 this 7.54ct bracelet is a real bargain. 


This final piece really is the most exquisite piece of jewellery. A Cartier pear shaped diamond ring of 3.77cts, with a colour grade of D and a quality that is internally flawless. Complete with a GIA certificate, you rarely see a diamond of this quality in your lifetime, and from a designer brand too. Oh, and the price? £425,000.

So this is my designer wish list. What would you put on your wish list if money was no object?
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