What you need to know before you book your airfare and tickets
Got your hands on a cheap flight to Birmingham? Make sure to bring some empty suitcases, because Birmingham is a veritable shopping nirvana. The city holds more shopping malls than any other city in the UK. Designer labels galore at The Mailbox or check out the Great Western Arcade for your affordable high street brands. Love to bargain? There is a multitude of markets to nose around at. Arts and crafts, farmers' markets. You name it, Birmingham has it. Check out the goods at the Rag market or the Bullring's indoor and outdoor markets. All shopped out? Enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the many restaurants in this cosmopolitan city. Try the super exclusive Simpsons restaurant if you want to go all out. They use British ingredients only and offer a posh dining experience. Not ready to go to bed yet? Check out the scene at Broad Street where the bars stay open till late on the weekends. Or for a more sophisticated night out, try the extensive wine list at wine bar Malmaison.