bloomingdales versus macy's

[ninarosa]

going to the big apple soon.Which store is best to navigate for make up, handbags and jewellery? I only have time to visit one of them, Also, what is Woodbury Common outlet like? is it worth the trip?

[littlej111]

Woodbury common is definetly worth the visit, when i went that is where i bought nearly everything that i came back with.

[JonnoGenie]

Bloomingdales is very like Selfridges, a giant store of concession stands - generally very classy. Macy's is like, hmmm... I don't know some more everyday Oxford Street department store.

So, how much money have you got? If you're on a budget you might be wasting your limited time at Bloomingdale's. Macy's jewellry and handbags are right next to each on the ground floor (Herald Square entrance). As I recall make up is at the other end of the building on the same floor. Macy's is also better for kitchen gear (basement). Clothing is a bit naff and poorly laid out,

If you go, remember to start in Visitor Reception on the mezzanine floor, and ask for your visitor discount (11% off) card. Show your passport to get one. I was told they do these in Bloomies too, but learned too late to go and try and get one there, so can't confirm this.

Woodbury has bargains, there is no doubt. But it is also a full and very full on day, like a day at an IKEA. Depends how much time you have really.

[JK2]

Have a look at this link to Sephora - they have shops all over New York - look at the store list. They are fantastic and only do make-up & perfume - huge shops - every brand imaginable and many high fashion brands that we don't have in the UK.

http://www.sephora.com/help/stores/index.jhtml

[pastafreak]

LOL-Sephora...died and gone to heaven!!....I did all my shopping on Long Island where my family lives...LOADS of malls....you would need DAYS to do them all!!

[ninarosa]

Great answers, I'm there already ! Saw Sephora store in Paris but husband dragged me past it.
Am staying on Times square , are stores and theatres easy walking distance and \ or are cabs reasonable in price?l

[JonnoGenie]

Cabs are cheap and good, subways ok (if you like subway trains, I tend not to; prefer to see what is going on). Buses are good and very frequent. You really can walk anywhere anyway, if you are a 'walker'. (I've been known to walk from 80th to Battery Park, and back, in a day... but that is 200-250 blocks, certainly 10+ miles). As a benchmark, what ever your age/health, you should have little problem walking over at least a 20 block radius of where you are staying. Within that area, it is probably quicker to walk than take public transport, though a cab will usually do it quicker if you are in a real rush.

Sephora is great, my missus loved it. They do samplers of just about everything. So each time we popped in, I left with hands and face well nourished with $100 moisturiser! lol