Two of furrylittlegnome’s favorite department stores are foreign and are always included for one or two visits on her itinerary whenever she is in Paris or London. Here is a quick glimpse of each.
Galeries Lafayette
40, blvd Haussmann
Paris
Opened in 1893 and located in the upscale 9th arrondissement, the inside of Galeries Lafayette is an architectual gem. On an upper floor of this shopping mecca is a terrace and observation deck – where one can get a glimpse of the City of Lights.
Harrods
87-135 Brompton Road
London
It’s true. At its present location since 1849, Harrods takes up an entire city block in wealthy Knightsbridge. With its iconic green awnings, this five acre store, currently owned by the Fayed family is the biggest department store in the UK and Europe. And whilst all are welcome, you must remember, there is a slight dress code.
Everything in Harrods is extravagant. All gnomes must visit giant food halls, and riding the Egyptian escalator is a must. Also, just to make things easier for their foreign customers, Harrods has an entire department (Tax Free Shopping Bureau) to handle VAT refunds!
Even if you don’t plan on purchasing anything in either store, just a walk through these grand entrances is enough to make you go “Wow!”
furrylittlegnome 
I was in these stores long time ago… They are great, but I could only look at and not able to buy…It is WOW!
Yes, it is a bit of a sticker shock…
Hi Gnome – have you ever purchased anything at these shops? They look GORGEOUS!
Of course! There are too many items to list…
They do look beautiful. I saw a show on Harrods once showing the employee side of things. Separate entrance, elevators etc. The amount of prep work before the main doors open. Fascinating. 🙂
…and all employees carry their personal belongings in a clear bag…
I had to do that for jobs I’ve had in the States too 🙂