Since 2001, Shop Gotham has been New York City’s premiere shopping tour company. Its knowledge, resources and breadth of creative itineraries offer privileges that are not available to the independent shopper.
Tours are designed to reveal the best shopping that can be found among the vastness of New York City’s neighborhoods.
Marla Hander is is the company’s president and has shared her travel tips and insight with us.
Cheapflights: What do you always do when you travel – do you have any routine procedures?
Marla Hander: I always research special happenings at the time I am going in the destination. The landmarks are easy to find and there’s usually a concierge with a map for these. I like to seek out those special concerts, markets and exhibitions.
CF: What is your travel pet peeve?
MH: Delayed flights, aren’t they everyone’s?
CF: What is your favorite kind of trip?
MH: If I have my absolute choice (and ample time), I like a city vacation followed by a couple of days at a beach . Run like crazy, then let out a sigh for a couple of days. Despite having been to some wonderful locales, I try not to repeat destinations .
CF: In your opinion, what’s the best destination you have ever been to and why?
MH: Bangkok and Phuket. Want a city that doesn’t resemble home? Bangkok is it. Hotels which pamper and live up to their five-stars – which sit next to temples encrusted with rubies- which sit next to women washing their dinner ware in the river. Phuket is glorious, with its $15 massages under tiki roofs before breakfast.
CF: Where in the world offers the best value for money?
MH: Most of South America.
CF: When you fly, is there a tip you can share to make the experience a great one?
MH: No matter when you booked your seat, check the seating chart again one or two days before your flight. You may find a whole open row for yourself that you can switch to.
CF: What are a few tips on traveling based on your specialty?
MH: Shopping. If you intend to shop in your destination, check several sites for ideas. It’s all very subjective so don’t rely on one opinion. Wander off the beaten track – small shops are always the most interesting and often can’t pay the real estate of the city center. And buy yourself something to remind you of your trip.
CF: At one point in your life, you will have to sit in the middle seat when you fly. Who you most want to share a long haul with and whom would you least?
MH: I would choose to sit with a very handsome charming intelligent man who has something interesting to say! He should do interesting work, engage in philanthropy, and have done some exotic travel. And then I wouldn’t mind if he could take me home on his/her private jet. The person I would least want to sit with is one with the cold!
CF: If there was one travel nightmare trip, where would it be to and what would it involve?
MH: I don’t know where it would be, but it would involve bugs.
Cheapflights is proud to have guest voices express their opinions. The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of Cheapflights Media (USA) Inc.
