The Emporium Department Store

Ascend to the next level and behold designer collections out of this world. The floor above serves as a pedestal to the most ephemeral - Young & Trendy. Jaunty designer garb, lingerie and sun-bathing ensembles return the lustful gaze of passersby, promising unspeakable things.

From here we move on to Emporium for Men, because men deserve to splash out too. If you would like to look and smell like an Armani model, you'll need to equip yourself with the right stuff. The next storey features designer collections for babies, kids' fashion and toys. Or if you make your mark on the world in other ways, adorn your office with emblematic stationary. And right on the top of the cake is the department of home d-cor and electronics, where you can deck out your pad with only the finest. By now, you will be ready to find a table at one of the many classy restaurants, take home a lovingly cooked meal or choose perhaps to explore the food courts.

Location: The Emporium
Expect to find: Top local and international brands, local and visiting celebs, Arabian princesses, 'katoey' (ladyboy) beauty consultants and hi-society shoppers.
Value: Supreme fashions don't come cheap. Often, you can pick up a good deal though if you keep your eyes peeled for promotions and discounts.
Verdict: If you come to Bangkok for shopping, it's not to be missed.