Hola!  It is said that 48 percent of U.S. visitors and an astounding 94 percent of international visitors to Orlando shop until they drop at the area’s luxury department stores, upscale boutiques, outlet malls, antique shops and farmers markets. In many cases, entertainment complexes are also part of the mix, combining shopping with dining and high-energy fun.

This week, I will be showcasing the places I visited on your behalf on my recent trip. There is no doubt in my mind that all visitors’ tastes and budgets will be delightfully satisfied in this shopping paradise.

I will start by talking about the outlet centers. I’ve never been much of an outlet shopper myself, until I personally experienced Orlando Premium Outlets and Prime Outlets International.

For some reason, I perceived outlets to be crowded and claustrophobic, with low-quality merchandise. I am not sure why I had that negative perception, but boy was I proven wrong!  The outlets in Orlando are not only are beautifully kept and in open air, but the quality of the merchandise is exceptional, first-class! For me, this was an unexpected and welcome surprise.

Prime Outlets International Orlando recently unveiled Phase 1 and Phase 2 of their multi-million dollar redesign project with new stores including Neiman Marcus Last Call Clearance Center, Sean John, Hugo Boss, Banana Republic Factory Store, BCBG Max Azria Factory Store, Michael Kors and J. Crew Factory Store. This is Orlando’s largest outlet mall and definitely worth checking out! Their slogan says it all “The power of passionate shopping!”

The selection of stores makes every visit time well spent, from women’s, men’s and children’s apparel and accessories, to health and beauty, shoes and luggage…you get the idea. And it’s all at amazing outlet prices every day! The 1Club will provide you with exclusive offers and special services. You can sign up at Guest Services or primeoutlets.com. If you are passionate about shopping and saving, you should join the Club.

Orlando Premium Outlets is located just minutes from Walt Disney World. It is the area’s most upscale outlet center and one of the most popular outlets in the world. They feature 110 stores including Dior, Fendi, Giorgio Armani, La Perla, Lacoste, Salvatore Ferragamo, Theory, Tod’s, Zegna and much more. They recently opened DKNY, Etro and Michael Kors.

Check out this video about outlet shopping at Orlando Premium Outlets.

My favorite thing about this outlet center is their different shopping packages, especially the Personal Fashion Stylist Package. Author and national stylist Jackie Walker will meet with you to determine your personal style. She will then take you on a VIP shopping tour of the outlet so that you can bring your closet and wardrobe into harmony with your life. You will have a unique and exciting day of shopping in the stores of the world’s leading luxury designers. You will receive a VIP Gift Bag with lots of goodies including Walker’s bestselling book “I Don’t Have a Thing to Wear,” a VIP Coupon Book, A $100 gift card and other gifts from the outlet stores.

Worth pointing out is their upcoming Labor Day Weekend Sale which will take place Friday, Aug. 29 to Monday, Sept. 1. You’ll enjoy extra discounts on top of their everyday savings of 25%-65%.

Tomorrow, I will chat about specialty centers with truly unique stores! Have fun shopping!

Ciao!