Bellavita opened its doors to a select few yesterday. Boasting upscale brand names such as Viver, Hermes and Bulgari, Bellavita sits poised to take on other shopping giants like Taipei 101 and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi. Stores aimed for a younger clientèle are set to open later in the month.

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Does Taiwan really need another playground for the rich? Is it even appropriate amid our global economic meltdown? We'll soon see. I am reminded of something that happened in Taichung a few years ago. Kuang San Sogo opened Sogo II just steps away from the original store. Many of us thought that they were simply moving to a newer, bigger location; we were wrong. Sogo II opened, catering to high-end spenders with names such as Gucci and Luis Vuitton, while the original Sogo remained in its original location. Sogo II lasted less than 2 years before its doors were closed for good.

However, being the tourist that I am, I think that Bellavita is worth a once over! I'll be sure to check it out the next time I'm in Taipei. That way, if it closes down in a few years, I can be the first to say 'I told you so...'

• Taipei Times - Xinyi’s Bellavita shopping mall opens.
• The China Post - High-end Bella Vita opens with clash.