Shopping is not the main focus at Portofino Bay Hotel. In fact, unlike many posh hotels I have had occasion to visit around the world, this one has remarkably few shops. The ones it has can be roughly divided between the practical and the posh.
On the practical side is Le Memorie di Portofino, or Memories of Portofino, where you can pick up a variety of sundries and magazines along with pricey polo shirts bearing the hotel’s handsome logo. If you don’t like the paper dropped outside your door, you can come here for The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and London’s Daily Mail. Other reading matter includes glossy magazines and the latest thriller to take to the pool. There is also some posh Italian ceramic ware, and resort wear emblazoned with the Portofino Bay logo.
Another place to stop into to pick up the necessities of resort life is L’Ancora (The Anchor) located near the boat dock. It thoughtfully purveys sunscreen and other items you might need as you head for the parks. This shop also stocks chips, nuts, and soft drinks to wash it all down with. In addition, about 50 percent of their business is in ultra-casual clothing.
As you might have guessed, there is an outpost of the Universal Studios Store in Portofino Bay. It stocks plenty of t-shirts and polo shirts, some of them quite nice. You’ll also find a small selection of toys and plush dolls for the kids.
The remaining shops are for pampering yourself or that special someone. Once you’ve taken in the luxurious atmosphere of the hotel, you might want to rush to Alta Moda (High Fashion) for something you’ll feel comfortable being seen in. They have thoughtfully provided the best in contemporary resort wear, with everything from fashion accessories, to swimwear, to lingerie, to evening wear for that special meal at Bice.
Another place to spend the money you didn’t spend on a ticket to Italy is Galleria Portofino. It features the work of contemporary artists and some of it is very attractive indeed. In addition to paintings, there is some lovely decorative statuary, blown glass from Murano, and jewelry from a variety of artisans.
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