It’s Daycare for Men at This Shopping Centre in China!

I have to confess to being somewhat of a shop-a-holic. See shops, must look. And I’m a pretty good shopper in the scheme of things. My retinas are trained to scan, zoom in and out and focus on exactly what I love and reject the rest (if you’re interested I have a particular fondness for polka dots, ruffles, anything pink, 50’s style dresses and cute denim jackets).

So…if my bag-carrying husband happens to be accompanying me I go pretty easy on him in terms of wait-time. I should also mention that if there’s any possibility of heading into a shopping mall I am prepared and go dressed in leggings and a top that can be whipped off in seconds. That way I can usually try things on without even getting undressed. I am in and out of there in no time. Whoosh…

(I really think I should be allowed to shop uninhibited in just a strapless bra, seamless undies and a dressing gown though. While a guy in a golf cart follows me with my loot…….)

My husband refuses to enter any store-front that specialises in makeup, handbags or dresses and waits patiently out the front for me to appear and I feel guilty the entire time, no matter how fast I am.

And I don’t know how many times we’ve had a conversation around the idea of large shopping centres like Chadstone ensuring they have at the very least, comfortable leather chairs strategically placed with big-screen TVs showing sports, non-stop. Bring them a drink too while you’re at it. The happier they are, the longer we’re going to stay. Ka-ching.

Well finally a mall in China has got onto this idea with the installation of ‘husband storage pods’ for men to occupy themselves while their wives happily browse.

Each pod comes equipped with a chair, computer and game pad with retro 90’s games installed. Usage of the pod is free (but there is debate as to whether or not this will remain the case).

Pods can be reserved in advance via a mobile phone app.

There’s been a few hiccups so far; complaints about lack of air conditioning or ventilation and the popularity of them with the teenagers has left some husbands unable to access them. And lastly, some of the women aren’t so keen either as they’re afraid they won’t be able to get them out until they’ve finished their game!

Bring it on Australia! (I like my idea better though)…xx