Image: IMBD/Gossip Girl 

Come mid-December, the Sydney CBD will be teeming with people. It can be one of the most hectic and overwhelming times of the year, made worse by the stress of having to try to secure all the gifts on your list. More often than not, this involves multiple trips where you end up walking the equivalent of a half-marathon canvassing the city for all of the various little knick knacks people have requested. But what if you could avoid the stress and manage to do all your shopping in a single day without having to go very far?  

Good news: this is in fact very possible. In this survival guide, we’re outlining how to not only survive Christmas shopping, but get it all done in one place: The Galeries. 

First stop: The Daily Eatery

Before any shopping begins, you need to mentally prepare and set a plan. Specifically, with caffeine in-hand. So start your day at The Daily Eatery. Conveniently located just outside Town Hall Station, you can enjoy an oat latte and share a classic Eggs Benny while you map out your plan of attack. 

Second stop: Incu   

While spirits are high and you haven’t totally collapsed under the weight of shopping, you should get any clothing gifts done first. If you’re also looking for a Christmas outfit for yourself, it’s best to do it while you’re in a good mood to avoid change room spirals. Incu will have you sorted for any fashion needs; stocking the coolest labels that even your most fickle family member will love.  

Third stop: Books Kinokuniya 

Kinokuniya needs to be your next destination. A good book is an eternally excellent gift and at Kinokuniya, they’ve got something for literally everyone. From your manga-obsessed cousin to the homemaker aunt who churns her own butter, you’ll find a book they’ll end up recommending to others.  

Fourth Stop: Ichi Ban Boshi 

Now, a sustenance break. Get some lunch at Ichi Ban Boshi  — you need to get the Agedashi Tofu, Gyoza and Tokyo Ramen — and do a quick recon on what you’ve bought and what you still need to do.  

Fifth stop: Muji  

If you’re putting on a long lunch or hosting the family celebrations, you should stop by Muji which will have most of, if not all your decorative and organisational needs. Plus, you’ll also probably be able to pick up a cool Kris Kringle gift for your work BFF while you’re there.  

Sixth stop: JB Hi-Fi  

Whether you need to pick up a speaker for one of the events or are on the hunt for a present to give your tech-head friend, JB Hi-Fi will have all your answers.  

Seventh stop: Grounds of the City 

You’ve made it! With all your Christmas shopping complete in a single day, you deserve a glass of bubbles, some fries and a steak tartare at the Grounds of the City. Cheers to gifts that people will love and getting the job done without losing your mind!