Shopping HOLIDAYS

Find a unique buy - and perhaps a bargain or two – in these world-class shopping cities

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Dubai

You haven't seen a mall until you've seen the Dubai Mall – one of the world's largest shopping emporia, home to everything from an underwater zoo to an ice rink.

From global brands to local Emirati perfume, you'll find it all here. However if you buy one thing, make it gold, as quality is high and taxes lower. For this, the Dubai Gold Souk is the place to head.

SHOPPER'S STAY: With its opulent gold interiors, Raffles The Palm Dubai (raffles.com/thepalm-dubai) feels like a suitably blingy crash pad. Double rooms from £150, excluding breakfast.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a shopper's paradise where you can find things that aren't sold anywhere else. Go to BicCamera or Yodobashi in electronics district Akihabara and, as well as every kind of electronic device, you'll find a vast range of collectible figurines and novelties. Retailers Loft and Hands both sell an enticing range of Japanese stationery, while Daiso is great for niche kitchen kit or snacks.