London's most famous department store is Harrods, and it contains one million square feet of sales space. The store opened in 1849, and its motto "Omnia, omnibus, ubique" (Latin for "Everything, for everyone, everywhere") isn't just a marketing slogan. Its present owner, Egyptian millionaire Mohamed Al Fayed, has spent more than twenty years and literally millions of pounds updating the facilities in Knightsbridge and filling the seven floors with an awe-inspiring assortment of shopping departments, restaurants and services. It IS expensive, and when you pile on the exchange rate it's sometimes absurdly expensive, but you absolutely have to go during your London vacation. Compare it to taking your family to Disneyland instead of a carnival that's just appeared for the weekend in a mall parking lot.
Located on the Brompton Road, Harrods is easily accessible by bus or cab, and you can take the Underground's Piccadilly Line to the Knightsbridge Station directly opposite the store entrance. You know your experience will be special as the doorman in the green coat and hat greets you. Be sure to take a copy of the free store guide which maps each floor and offers the location of each department, restaurant and rest room. There are stairs, escalators and elevators (lifts in the U.K.) located throughout the store - but be sure to ride Al Fayed's gorgeous £20 million Egyptian Escalator.
In terms of shopping, you will find absolutely everything necessary to outfit your family and home, along with toys and amusements for all ages. All major designers showcase their fashions and accessories here. The Food Halls are world-famous, and house items from the suburban to the sublime. There are several Classic Collection departments, with Harrods' brand merchandise and gifts. Waterstone's Books has an outlet within the store, as does HMV for videos and music. There is even a pet store on the second floor. To save money, be sure to visit one of the Tax Free Shopping offices before you leave Harrods. In many cases, you'll be able to receive a refund of the 17.5% VAT (value added tax) on your purchases by filling out some paperwork. The staff are very good about recognizing Americans and will nearly always ask if you'd like to make your purchases in U.S. dollars, which are converted on the spot.
As far as restaurants, there are 28 locations ranging from Starbucks and Krispy Kreme Donuts to a Rotisserie, Sushi Bar, and a pub. The Georgian Restaurant serves a delicious lunch and a wonderfully informal formal afternoon tea. The services provided may seem somewhat ordinary - currency exchange, theater tickets, a pharmacy, tailoring and a spa - but the quality of service will far exceed your expectations.
Before leaving the store, be sure to visit the memorial to the late Princess Diana and Al Fayed's son Dodi on the lower ground floor. Like everything else in the store, it may seem a little over-the-top, but most visitors find something strangely fascinating and touching about it. If I'm not mistaken, it's also the only place in the store in which photography is allowed.
Your Harrods experience could last just a few hours, or extend over a few days, but it's a must-see during your time in London. I would be surprised if you could leave without at least one signature green bag with a souvenir of your visit.
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