Although Eurodisney Paris has lots of fun rides and attractions, unless you’re the best parent in the world, it’s probably not real high on your list of things to do in Paris. If you’re like many people, shopping is at or near the top.

But if you can find a volunteer to go with the kids to Disneyland Paris Resort, you can spend the day at La Vallee Village, the outlet mall that’s just a few minutes’ walk from the Disney park entrance. If you’ll have the kids in tow, there’s a play area for them at the Village. Read more…

With some of the top flea markets in the country going strong for years now, L.A. needs another flea market like it needs a hole in the head. But Southern Californians are so crazy for flea markets that too much is not enough. In fact, the only thing more popular than flea markets is food trucks. And some brilliant entrepreneur got the idea to combine the two.

The new L.A. Flea Market debuts on July 18 in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium. The grand opening will feature the Hollywood Yard Sale with items donated by George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and other celebrities. Proceeds from sales will benefit the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center. Read more…

Southern California flea markets have something for everyone. Whether you’re a serious collector, or just someone who appreciates one-of-a-kind items, you can find something cool for a great price, if you follow a few simple steps.

If you’re looking for something specific, do some homework in advance. Go online and get an idea of what fair market value is for the item you’re trying to find. Then, figure out which flea market is most likely to have a vendor who carries it. Read more…

As far as we’re concerned, no visit to Paris is complete without spending some time in its marvelous flea markets. Always a place of incomparable style, Paris has produced exquisite art, decorative objects, and fashion, as well as wonderful, whimsical souvenirs. And flea markets have it all — from the sublime to the silly.

If you’re looking for something truly unique for a special gift, or a treasured memento, check one out. Take cash, keep an eye on your wallet, and de prepared to do a little bargaining. Read more…

Unlike Paris, where department stores were part of Baron Haussamans’s grand plan, Rome’s grandi maggazzi aren’t all that grandi.

They’re actually pretty small – the big stores are in the new shopping malls on the ring road that runs around Rome’s perimeter. But you can certainly find whatever you’re looking for in Rome’s department stores, and many are located near Via Condotti were luxury labels like Versace and Dolce & Gabbano are located. Read more…

Known as mercato delle pulci, Rome’s flea markets have their roots in ancient times. They’re a great way to experience an authentic slice of Roman life. And you’ll often find a one-of-a-kind item that becomes a treasured souvenir or a thoughtful gift.

Most visitors to Rome who enjoy flea markets and antique shops know about the Porta Portese market. With 4,000 vendors, it’s one of the biggest flea markets in Europe. Read more…

London has delightful antiques shops that will appeal to both serious collectors and casual shoppers alike. With dozens of dealers all in one place, the antique malls are especially convenient, and there are several great ones to choose from. Plus, they’re usually open during the week when most of the markets are closed.
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There are plenty of the things to do in Southern California, and most visitors run out of time before they run out of attractions. Most travelers don’t know that there are fantastic flea markets in the Los Angeles area every weekend. And in addition to finding the perfect old poster, antique lamp, or vintage handbag, you may also see a celebrity.

L.A.’s flea markets are huge, varied, and fun. Some, such as the Rose Bowl, are all-day affairs, while others are a pleasant way to pass a few hours. Read more…

Barcelona has an original style all its own. Most of Europe’s major design trends made their way here, were influenced by Catalonian sensibilities, and emerged distinctively different. Which makes shopping for antiques in Barcelona especially enjoyable. The treasures you find here will be truly unique.

If you’re lucky, you’ll find an example of Barcelona’s fabulous version of Art Nouveau, known here as Modernisme.
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If you’re like us, eating well is the best part of traveling. So in addition to all kinds of restaurants, we also include markets, specialty shops, and food stores in our itinerary. They’re great places to pick up souvenirs, buy gifts for friends, and find supplies for a picnic lunch.

The best food stores are destinations in themselves. And you can learn a lot about local culture by strolling the aisles. One look at the potato chip section in Marks and Spencer will tell you that today’s Britain is a multicultural melting pot.
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Shopping in Paris is a mixed blessing. On the one hand, you’ll find beautiful, amazing things you will treasure forever. On the other hand, the prices can be so high that they take the fun right out of it.

No wonder Parisians coined the term “leche-vitrine,” which loosely translated means “window licking.”

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