Trafford Center could easily turn into a picturesque shopping mall with its medieval paintings on the interior dome, which was the heart of the mall, supported by columns of golden pedestals. Bogus palm trees were planted in the middle of the walkways, adding a certain tropical twist. Soaring arch-glass ceilings were one of the main architectural exhibits, it not only filled the atmosphere with sufficient natural lights but also radiated a sense of relaxation and comfort as sunshine dappled the entire mall.

Part of Trafford Center was assigned with different themes, namely "New Orleans," located on the second floor, and "The Egyptians," on the ground level.

Looking for budget dinner? The "New Orleans’ does not seem to be an appropriate place to dine in, for the restaurant's menu suggested so. However, if you opt for a romantic dinner or are hoping to impress the woman you are dating, these restaurants may a perfect rendezvous! Bars, restaurants, and taverns were reminiscent of those in French Quarter—seating was available on the second level within the restaurant itself, open balconies overlook live bands playing jazz boom from the center podium.

Before descending to the ground level, you find yourself standing on the upper deck of "a cruise ship" or "a steamboat." Looking down, there was a vast food center that could no doubt reach a few-hundred seating capacity. These were where the mouth-watering and economical cuisines concentrated. It was suitable for family or friends gathering where each can order different gourmet, and at the same time save cost and taste slivers of a variety of foods.

"The Big Screen" in the center of the food mall was a real eye-catcher. Every minute, it promotes forthcoming events in Trafford Center and flashing numerous ads on travel destinations or packages, leaning more towards Western and Eastern Europe.

After satisfying your stomach, get a cup of chocolate fudge brownies to fill your insatiable sweet-tooth at Wall’s Ice Cream Corner. The arcade center was a great place for relax and fun work out. It has its own 10-pin bowling alley, sets of pool tables, mini pubs, and cranking arcade machines; included shooting games, stimulation, boxing, and bumper cars contribute most of the racket of the place. These games were not the most prominent feature but the ornate Egyptian stone carvings, sculptures, and numerous flickering "burning torches" (piece of white paper denotes the flame, with yellowish/orangey lights shine onto it and surge of artificial light air make the paper reflects glow and dance like real flames!) over-elaborating the arcade facade.

P.S. Touring the entire mall could take you up to a day, and allow 3-hours for a cursory stroll.

The largest indoor shopping complex in Europe, the Gateshead Metrocentre, is near where I live, so I did wonder how the Trafford Centre would compare. As the Metro Centre is "the largest," the Trafford Centre must be smaller, but it’s still pretty big. It’s primarily on two floors, with a light, airy, open plan theme. Specification-wise, it’s classier than the Metro Centre. The floors are marble/marble effect, and the exterior is also attractive with its pillared entrances and dome.

Shopping is typically varied; up-market department stores like Debenhams are here, as are all the major high-street clothing and electrical retailers, etc., etc. Navigation may not be the easiest, but maybe that's a good thing. It’s sometime a nice little adventure just to wander around not knowing where you are, wondering what you'll stumble on.

I'm not much of a shopper, but I am an eater, so the food hall was of particular interest to me. The specialty restaurants on the upper level were particularly tempting. I ate in the Cathay Dim Sum (see its journal) on a hot tip, but there was also an extremely interesting Spanish tapas bar - next time maybe. Other options included Indian, Korean, American, British pub-style, and pizza - something for everyone. Adjacent to the food hall inside the TC is a UCI Multiplex.

Outside, parking is plentiful and free, and shops stay open till 10pm most evenings. I hope someone finds these shopping observations from a non-shopper useful. Oh, and finally, their website.