June 25th, 2007
Waikiki’s ala Moana Center Expands Shopping Options
Although Waikiki may have made its reputation as a sun-and-sand destination, visitors will quickly notice how important shopping is as a component of the destination’s tourism appeal.
Kalakaua Avenue is lined with high-end shops and many Japanese tourists come to Waikiki with shopping as their preferred activity. Another major magnet for shoppers is the Ala Moana Center, which bills itself as the world’s largest open-air mall, with 260 stores, including 70 dining venues and such high-profile stores as Gucci, Bulgari and Tiffany & Co.
The center is in the midst of a two-year retail expansion project that will add 35 new merchants, including Hawaii’s first full-line Nordstrom. The center recently saw the opening of Tsukiji Fish Market and Restaurant, inspired by Tokyo’s famous eponymous fish market.
A spokesperson for Ala Moana Center had an interesting observation, mentioning that while visitors from major U.S. cities will find these high-end shops familiar, those from many other parts of the country will be impressed by the plethora of shopping options.
The center has several commissionable shopping packages, ranging from $25 to $120, and including things like free transportation, discount coupon books, gift cards and a complimentary shopping bag. Visit www.shopamericatours.com/.