This post is not for those with a lack of willpower; well, when it comes to shoes. Rosie Khdir struggles against her own shoe-buying addiction as she reveals Holland footwear gem, Shoebaloo.

When you think of Holland and shoes, a heavy wooden clog probably springs to mind. But no more. From now on when you think of the Netherland, you shall think of Shoebaloo!

Shoebaloo is shoe haven for anyone who appreciated exclusive brands like D&G, Prada, Dior and Jimmy Choo. Items almost hover in the windows of this futuristic shop and you feel more like you’ve entered a museum of luxury shoes, than a store.

It started out in the 70s as a small 30m² shop, situated in Jordaan the “hippy quarter” of Amsterdam and sold Spanish boots called Botas Camperos – very popular at the time I assure you.

A men’s shoe store at the Koningsplein followed, and then later a store at PC Hooftraat selling both men’s and women’s luxury footwear and a women’s store in Leidsestraat.

In 2005 a Shoebaloo store opened on the Cornelis Schuystraat which specialises in men’s and women’s bags and accessories. The most recent shop to open is the Flagship store on the Kruiskade in Rotterdam.

So if you are looking for a high end shopping experience with all your favourite big names, Shoebaloo is the place to go. To get there with ease, and to save more of your money for Shoebaloo purchases, P&O Ferries provides a great value service from Hull – Zeebrugge.

Image credit: tomcole

Tags: History, Lifestyle, Netherlands, P&O Ferries // Add Comment »