Shopping the handicrafts
village in Embu is a nice break away from the city.
As South America’s largest city, Sao Paulo’s stores are a magnet
for shoppers from across the continent as well as for paulistanos. The
city is home to massive malls, upscale shopping a la Rodeo Drive, urban
markets, and nearby handicrafts villages. Check out these shopping areas:
Iberapuera
Shopping Center. Located in the Moema area of the city in walking
distance of the Sonesta São Paulo Iberopuera, this mall offers
over 500 stores on four levels. We found good stores offering clothing,
shoes, jewelry, candies, and more. Remember, seasonal fashions will
be opposite of those at home. During our April visit, the season’s
new sweaters and coats were making their first appearances. Prices are
fixed throughout the mall, which also has a post office and ATMs (and
movie theaters.)
Central
Market. Foodies can’t miss this clean, well-organized market
featuring fruits and spices from across South America. Plan to have
lunch upstairs overlooking the market; specialties include mortadella
sandwiches.
Liberdade. The Japanese community (pronounced
lib-er-da-je) includes many stores with handicrafts from Brazil, many
with a Japanese flair such as bonsai trees made from local stones.
Rua Oscar Freire. The Rodeo Drive of São Paulo (located
in the Paulista area of the city), here you’ll find the biggest
of the big names: Versace, Gucci, Tiffany, you name it. Stroll this
chic district for shopping – or just window shopping – then
take a break at Oscar Freire Figueiras Restaurant.
Embu.
Located about 45 minutes form the city, this charming community is filled
with handicrafts, including handmade furniture and wood carvings. An
excellent day trip when you’re ready to get out of the hustle and
bustle of the city for a while.
Iberapuera
Shopping Center. Located in the Moema area of the city in walking
distance of the Sonesta São Paulo Iberopuera, this mall offers
over 500 stores on four levels. We found good stores offering clothing,
shoes, jewelry, candies, and more. Remember, seasonal fashions will
be opposite of those at home. During our April visit, the season’s
new sweaters and coats were making their first appearances. Prices are
fixed throughout the mall, which also has a post office and ATMs (and
movie theaters.)
Central
Market. Foodies can’t miss this clean, well-organized market
featuring fruits and spices from across South America. Plan to have
lunch upstairs overlooking the market; specialties include mortadella
sandwiches.
Embu.
Located about 45 minutes form the city, this charming community is filled
with handicrafts, including handmade furniture and wood carvings. An
excellent day trip when you’re ready to get out of the hustle and
bustle of the city for a while.
