Shop til you drop

It’s not Dubai, it’s not Hong Kong, it’s not Milan and it’s not London. Warsaw has a long way to go before it’s regarded as a shopping mecca, but the city is seeing true growth in the array of shops available and the number big-name labels that are opening storefronts. Whether it’s western style malls, designer boutiques, dusty family stores or antique markets a day spent shopping can result in both bargains and treasures, and there’s presents to be had for everyone on your list (including yourself).

Wife or girlfriend
When we think of what the ladies would like, one word comes to mind: amber. Poland is well known as the best place to find handsomely shaped fossilised resin, and you can easily nab a piece that will please at the appropriately named World of Amber or famed Polish jeweller W. Kruk.

Husband or boyfriend
One word: vodka. Another word: lard. Take home Poland’s famous nectar and a container of smalec (spreadable lard) and you’ll make any man happy. Krakowski Kredens carries tubs of the greasy stuff, while you’ll find popular Polish vodka brands like Żubrówka and Belvedere at Chopin Luxury and M&P.

Brother
Euro 2012 fever has gripped Poland, and Intersport at Zlote Tarasy is the official shop for licensed Euro 2012 apparel. Grab your brother an array of t-shirts and sweatshirts bearing the colourful Euro 2012 insignia and he’ll feel like his sporting best.

Sister
If sis is a stylish gal head to Morka+ in Saska Kepa for the fashion-forward pieces created by Polish designer Ewa Morka. For high-end options the new domMody VITKAC is filled with name brands like Gucci and Alexander McQueen, and the Likus Concept Store is one of our fashion favourites.

Child
If you’re looking for souvenir-y staples like bright red Polska onesies and dolls dressed in traditional Polish garb, look no further than Cepelia. For something on the educational end of the spectrum we recommend you raid the Science Store at the Copernicus Science Centre; games, experiments and books for all ages await.

Mom
Give mom some monk-like zen with soaps and lotions from Produkty Benedyktyńskie, which carries a variety of products created by the brothers at Tyniec Abbey in Krakow. If she skews towards sweets then snag a box Polish truffles at Pijalnie Czekolady Wedel.

Dad
If your dad is anything like ours he can lose hours of his life in interesting vintage bookshops. Warsaw is packed with them, and Antykwariat Lamus is one of the best for old postcards, unique prints, old books and yellowing maps from last century.