Historically a Sydney-based department store, David Jones expanded its tentacles to the southern state of Victoria about 20 years ago.

Its Bourke Street, Melbourne store fronts the mall of the same name on both sides.

The recently refurbished Food Hall, in the basement of the more southerly DJs store, is a major attraction. Its utility has been enhanced by now American-owned Myer's 2007 decision to close its Food Hall.

While DJs prices are rarely (except at sale time) competitive with department stores in the Manilas and Singapores of the world for clothing and footwear, its range is excellent.

Most of all, you will find courteous shop assistants who call you 'Mr', 'Mrs' or Miss' as the case may be, which is a welcome change from the poor service many shoppers receive in developed nations in the 21st century.