retail therapy

Designed to perfection

With loads on offer to suit a variety of budgets, Milan really is the destination for shopaholics. And what's even better, is it's only a short flight away!

Explore: To take in an aerial view of the city, climb the Piazza Duomo. Dating back to 1300, the cathedral is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture.

Then there is the La Scala theatre where you can see interesting costume and theatre exhibits including ancient musical instruments that belonged to famous artists.

Shopping: In autumn, the fashion world comes to Milan with a whole host of top events including the unveiling of the next season’s ranges. Alternatively look out for the seconds shops where you can pick yourself up a bargain!

For those who prefer lively street markets, there is Fiera di Senigallia, on every Saturday, and Mercatone del Naviglio Grande on the last Sunday of each month.

Stay: For a modern hotel with a cosy atmosphere, why not try the Sanpi Hotel. It is within walking distance of the main sights and shopping areas and offers tastefully furnished rooms, equipped with all the latest facilities.

For somewhere more traditional, you can choose to stay at The Fenice Hotel: an elegant palace dating back to the end of the 1800s. The hotel is located at the beginning of Corso Buenos Aires, just a stone's throw from the old part of the city.

Book your Milan trip with The Co-operative Travel

The city that never sleeps

New York New York, so good they named it twice! You’ve probably heard all the clichés about this great city, but it’s only when you’re there that you can truly appreciate the wonderful sights. There is so much to see and do that you won’t know where to start.

Explore: The epicentre of New York for any tourist has to be Manhattan, with its breathtaking skyline, shops, theatres and historical buildings. You can wander into the trendy areas of Greenwich Village, East Village, and SoHo or the captivating Little Italy and Chinatown. And, if you need to rest your feet at any point, take a ride on the New York subway.

A visit to the Empire State Building is a must. From the observation tower on the 102nd floor, you can enjoy spectacular city views. Or travel by ferry to Staten Island to see the iconic Statue of Liberty. 

Shopping: Many visitors head to New York for the shopping alone; Bloomingdales, Saks and Macy’s are just some of the department stores that tourists flock to. Or take a stroll along Fifth Avenue and you’ll come across the celebrated jewellery store Tiffany’s or FAO Schwarz which houses one of the biggest selections of toys imaginable.   

Stay: The Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers New York is located right in the heart of midtown Manhattan, just steps from the Broadway Theatre district, Carnegie Hall, Rockefeller Centre, Central Park and 5th Avenue shopping. The hotel boasts a fully equipped health club and a variety of dining options.

Located in Manhattan's trendy upper West Side, the West Side Inn Hotel New York offers guests the chance to mingle with true New Yorkers. Surrounded by speciality shops, restaurants and two of New York's most magnificent parks – Central Park and Riverside Park – the West Side Inn is a budget shared-bath hotel that was completely renovated in 1999. Guestrooms are comfortable, clean and contemporary.

Book your New York holiday with The Co-operative Travel