The original do-it-yourself travel guide to Europe SM


Shopping in Europe

Souvenirs, Gifts, and Stuff You Can't Live Without

Shopping in Europe. Unusual things are everywhere.
Flea markets, department stores, boutiques, vineyards, and duty free shops.



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My book will get you started.
How To Europe The Complete Travelers Handbook by John Bermont
How To Europe
The Complete
Travelers Handbook
by John Bermont


The best travel guide to all of Europe.
Europe on a Shoestring Lonely Planet
Europe on a Shoestring
Lonely Planet


The essential timetable and handbook for rail travelers.
European Rail Timetable Summer 2010 Independent Travellers Edition Thomas Cook
European Rail Timetable
Summer 2010
Independent Travellers Edition
Thomas Cook


A comprehensive guide to 3,000 hotels and restaurants in 44 major cities throughout Europe.
Michelin Guide 2010 Main Cities of Europe
Main Cities of Europe 2010
Michelin Guide


The links in this green field take you directly to a page at Amazon.com. That page details the item, and in some cases includes candid and critical comments from others who have bought the item.

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You win we win. Thanks for your support!!

Have a good trip in life,
John Bermont


Note: Italicized notations by the author.


' ' ' ' ' '
It rains. Be prepared.

Totes Titanium Auto-Open/Close Umbrella


Weather protection is essential. This is a great lightweight water repellent windbreaker.

The Stormbreaker
by Turfer Sport


Womens's Light Weight Endurance Jacket
Womens's Light Weight Endurance Jacket


Look sharp and be comfortable.
Women's Long Sleeve Cotton Turtleneck by Lands' End
Women's Long Sleeve Cotton Turtleneck
by Lands' End


Jessica Simpson Women's Satin Trench Rainwear
Jessica Simpson Women's Satin Trench Rainwear


I wore one similar to this on my early spring trip to London and Dublin.
Lamb Leather Bomber Jacket - Brown
Lamb Leather Bomber Jacket - Brown


This is my "standard" shirt for most of the year in Europe.
Men's Combed Cotton Euro Design Ski Turtleneck
Men's Combed Cotton Euro Design Ski Turtleneck


My favorite T-shirt/undershirt has a pocket for securely carrying passport, cash, and credit cards.
Hanes 6.1oz. Tagless Pocket T-Shirt
Hanes Tagless Pocket T-Shirt


Wear a money belt under your shirt to protect your passport and valuables, especially if you are staying in hostels or dorms.
Victorinox Deluxe Concealed Security Belt
Victorinox Deluxe Concealed Security Belt


This portable combo door stopper and alarm will give you additional security in your hotel room.
GE 50246 Smart Home Door Stop Alarm
GE 50246 Smart Home
Door Stop Alarm


Walk on cork for all day comfort.

Birkenstock Bali Sandal



Birkenstock
Arizona Two Strap
Sandal


A very helpful planning map, and worth bringing for rail travelers.
Rail Map Europe, 16th (Thomas Cook Rail Map)
Rail Map Europe
Thomas Cook Rail Map


For traveling the rails in England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.
Rail Map Britain & Ireland (Thomas Cook Rail Map)
Rail Map Britain & Ireland
Thomas Cook Rail Map


You will need one or more of these plug adapters for your appliances and chargers.
Electrical Plug Adapter USA to Continental Europe
Plug Adapter
USA to Continental Europe
by Samsonite


SIMRAN PLUG ADAPTER - CONVERTS GROUNDED USA PLUGS TO EUROPE PLUG-GERMAN SHUCKO PLUG (VP 11W)
SIMRAN PLUG ADAPTER
Adapts grounded USA plugs to European plug


This is a universal plug adapter for the UK and Ireland.
Samsonite Grounded Adaptor Plug - United Kingdom, Ireland
Samsonite Grounded Adaptor Plug - United Kingdom, Ireland


To use this with American plugs you'll also need the USA to Continental Europe adapter.
Grounded Adapter
Europe to Switzerland


For charging the batteries of more than one gizmo at a time use this 250 volt universal power strip. It comes with a grounded Continental plug so it does not need an adapter plug for Europe. See the next item if you are going to the British Isles.
Universal Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip for AC 220V/240V Countries. Max Load 13A 250V 50/60HZ - 450 Joules. CE Certified
Surge Protector
Power Strip
6 Universal Outlets
220/240 Volt 50/60Hz


To use the surge strip in Britain and Ireland you will need one of these plug adapters. Grounded Adapter - Europe to England UK Britain
Grounded Adapter
Europe to
Britain and Ireland


Only use this if your appliance is not marked 110-240 v and uses less than 50 watts.
Grounded Transformer
USA to Continental Europe
50 Watts, 220v to 110v


This is a stronger transformer rated for 200 watts.
Transformer - 200 Watt Non Grounded Heavy Duty


Absolutely the best battery for digital cameras which use AA batteries.
Energizer - AA Lithium Batteries - 4 Pack
Energizer
AA Lithium Batteries
4 Pack


Rechargeable batteries will save you money in the long run.
Sony BCG-34HRMF4 Battery Charger with LCD Display and 4 AA Ni-MH Rechargeable Batteries
Sony BCG-34HRMF4 Battery Charger with LCD Display and 4 AA Ni-MH Rechargeable Batteries


Eforcity Universal USB Car Charger Adapter for Palm m500 and many other devices.
Eforcity Universal USB Car Charger Adapter for Palm m500 and many other devices.


Be on time. Trains and planes don't wait.
Casio G-Shock Watch<br>G100-1BV
Casio Men's G-Shock Ana-Digi Chronograph Sport Watch


Casio G-Shock Watch<br>G100-1BV
Casio Baby-G Ladies Watch


To help find your way on the winding and poorly posted roads of Europe.

Lensatic Military Marching Compass


A GPS will be worth its weight in platinum if you are driving around Europe.

Garmin nüvi 275/275T 3.5-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Traffic and maps for Europe and North America,


This will come in very handy once in a while.

Swiss Army
LED Flashlight


Stay trimmed and neat.

Royce Leather Ladies
Travel Kit with Shaver


Make sure that your electrical appliances are dual voltage so they will work in Europe.
Conair's Dual-Voltage Ionic Hair Dryer
Vagabond Compact Styler
Conair's Dual-Voltage Ionic Hair Dryer


Conair Flat Iron 2
Conair Flat Iron 2" Ceramic Straightener
Dual Voltage


Remington H-1015 All That Quick Curl Travel Hair Setter
Travel Hair Setter
Dual Voltage
Remington H-1015


SteamFast SF-717 Home-and-Away Mini Steam Iron (dual voltage)
SteamFast SF-717 Home-and-Away Mini Steam Iron (dual voltage)



Braun Series 1 1-150 Men's Shaver
Braun Series 1 150 Men's Shaver with Automatic Worldwide Voltage Adjustment


For light sleepers here is an international "white noise" machine.
Lewis N. Clark Immersion Heater 120/240V
Marsona TSCi-330 White Noise Travel Sound Conditioner For both USA and International Use


Bring home the memories.
Olympus FE360 8MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Dual Zoom (Silver)
Olympus FE360 8MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Dual Zoom (Silver)


A camera case protects your LCD screen.

Case Logic ECB-1 EVA Compact Camera Case (Black/Red)


This is the camera that I use,
Nikon D60 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
Nikon D60 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)


with this amazing lens,
Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR [Vibration Reduction] DX Lens
Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR [Vibration Reduction] DX Lens


and this filter.
HOYA 72mm Circularizing Polarizing Filter
HOYA 72mm Circularizing Polarizing Filter


This mini tripod-clamp can hold your camera in unusual places.
Adorama CLAMP-POD SMALL 4001
CLAMP-POD
Adorama SMALL 4001


The handiest tool you will ever own.

Leatherman 830039
New Wave Multitool
with Leather Sheath


Rolling luggage sure beats lugging a pack on your back.
Delsey Helium Breeze 2.0 Carry-On Upright, 21
Delsey Helium Breeze 2.0 Carry-On Upright, 21"


Day luggage for your walkabout.
Delsey Helium Fusion Personal Bag
Delsey Helium Fusion
Personal Bag


A rugged travel combo.
McKleinUSA Buckingham 58464 P Series Tech-Lite 1680D Ballistic Nylon Executive Travel Combo (Brown)
McKleinUSA Buckingham Tech-Lite Ballistic Nylon Executive Travel Combo


Keep your stuff organized.
eBags Medium Packing Cubes - 3pc Set
eBags Luggage Packing Cubes - 3pc Set - Raspberry


Samsonite Space Saver Bags for Travel
Samsonite Space Saver Bags for Travel


The two gallon size is excellent for packing your clothes, but it is hard to find in Europe.

2 gal. clear plastic bags
ZipLoc by SC Johnson



Quart clear plastic bags
One-Zip by Hefty


To relax and sleep on the plane.
Organic Valerian Root 515mg - 100 - Capsule
Organic Valerian Root 515mg - 100 - Capsule



Save money on
auto, SUV, and RV
rentals and leases.




Affiliates
Skype, free international phone.

Save up to 90% with Rebtel for International Calls

Wireless Emporium

Rail passes and tickets from Raileurope.com
Rail Europe

The World's Largest Map Store!
Maps.com - The World's Largest Maps Store!

STA Travel: Student Travel Experts
Cheap Student Airfare


KLM_88x31_Logo
KLM


Look No Further Best Rate Guarantee
Marriott
 

Business Class Deals to Europe - Save up to 65%
Air France


Budget Rent A Car

Shop at eBags
"eBags Outlet"


Premier Tax Free Premier Tax Free provides international shoppers with an easy and fast solution to recover sales tax (Value Added Tax) throughout the world.
NEW! — Stephanie's Paris Blog
O hey Europe

Chapter 23 of
HOW TO EUROPE
The Complete Travelers Handbook
Internet edition.
All photos by the author.
A page from enjoy-europe.com with John Bermont



Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport duty free chocolate store.
If you are flying out of Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, Netherlands you might want to pick up some last minute consumable souvenirs at one of the dozens of duty free shops in the airport. Dutch chocolates are delicious and make great gifts. Then again, you can gamble your money away at the airport casino. [P1250471-SchipholDutyFreeShop.jpg]


The emptor must caveat.

SHOPPING DIFFERENCES

With higher taxes built into the price of everything and per capita income about the same as in America, you just won't find many bargains in the western countries of Europe. In the east you can still find good deals. In both areas you will see many unusual items, designs, materials, and fashions not found at home.

TOURIST SHOPPING

Caution

Duty Free Shops

Travelers are immediately confronted with airport duty free shops when they enter the secure departure zone of international airports. Prices of goods in these shops may be duty free, but there are few bargains. If you are considering a major purchase, say a camera or electronic device, plan far ahead. Write to the duty free shop, care of your European gateway city airport (home-bound), and request a price list at least two months in advance. Compare prices with those for the same items in your local shops or through mail order. There is also duty free shopping on most planes and on board major ferries crossing international borders.

The only bargains I have seen in duty free shops are on alcoholic beverages and tobacco products, though this depends on the duty free shop and on the country. A pretty good rule would be that one should not enter any of the Scandinavian countries without carrying the maximum of duty free booze, if you enjoy drinking. The same is not necessarily true for Holland where the retail price of most spirits is less than the price in America, except for American products.

On board some ferries, bottles look like fifths and pints, but the exact quantity is not shown on the bottle. Except in the major airports, don't expect very good selections. The same limited number of brands show up in most duty free shops. One lesson I have learned is do not buy brands you are not familiar with, unless you can afford to experiment. Don't even buy new products from known brand names. I have tasted disasters. I think that some distillers dispose of their rubbish in duty free shops.

All goods bought in duty free shops are subject to duty, if any, when you land at your destination. The duty saved is the duty of the country where you bought the item. Shopping is allowed in duty free shops only if you are departing. Arriving passengers can't even buy a candy bar until they pass the customs inspectors.

Dutch 1943 dime bracelet.
During the German occupation of the Netherlands, 1940-45, the Nazi authorities ordered the citizens to turn in all their Dutch silver and gold coins. Jewelry was exempted. Therefore, according to the jeweler I bought this from, some of the clever Dutchies made jewelry out of their money!! Here is a string of 21 silver dimes from 1943. Look for similar items in antiek jewelry stores. [armband.jpg]



This bookstore in Prague, Czech Republic is crammed with Harry Potter editions.



This bookstore window display in Kraków, Poland is crammed with Harry Potter editions. I guess that somebody likes pigeon guano all over the sidewalk, or they have a cat who will be feasting on one of these plump squabs for dinner. Ksiazka is Polish for book. [P1200204-KrakowBookstore.jpg]


Souvenir Shops

After you land you are confronted by shops almost from the moment you're off the plane. After clearing passport and customs control the first hall you see will probably be lined with all kinds of stores. Don't expect any bargains. You might want to invest in a roller dolly for your suitcase if you've just discovered that it is too heavy.

High prices for stuff made in Brazil or Hong Kong can be found in the eighty thousand souvenir shops swarming around the tourist centers. These places are stocked with junque, but do have some useful items like Heineken T-shirts and various hats. I liberated a Russian Army officer's hat and an East German Army helmet on a trip through the eastern part of Germany. Those are good for Halloween costumes.

Consumer protection legislation is not as thorough in Europe as in America. Trinkets that appear to be of local origin may be imports from Pakistan and available at home in your dollar store for half the price. Items are identified with country of origin only when they want you to know. In Greece and the eastern European countries most of the craft work is locally made. Street markets with no overhead are the best places to shop.

When shopping for trinkets, offer a price lower than that marked. Sometimes a shopkeeper will accommodate you. If you like an item but you think it costs too much, say so. That is the easy indirect way to get some negotiations started.

An amber shop in Vilnius, Lithuainia.
This is an amazing store in Vilnius, Lithuainia. I bought a heart shaped amber charm for Stephanie in here. [P1190172-VilniusAmberShop.jpg]


Flea Markets

Some guide books on Europe boast of the great buys available at the Paris Flea Market and the Amsterdam Flea Market. Those were the old days. These places are now among the biggest rip-offs. Most of the customers are tourists. For bargains, go where the local folks shop.

There are scores of outdoor markets in Europe where the greenbacks are not grabbed so readily as in Paris and Amsterdam. Inquire at tourist offices. Look for small markets which are not so institutionalized. Permanent, roll-away, or knockdown structures occupy most of the acreage in the overpriced markets, while the cheaper markets feature merchandise displayed on old boxes or lying on the ground. For a real out of this world shopping experience go to Amsterdam on Queen's Day. See my photo tour at Queen's Day.

Garage Sale - Amsterdam Style on Queen's Day.
On Queen's Day in Holland people lay their junque out to sell. Here is a sale on a sidewalk in Amsterdam. [GarageSale-AmsterdamStyle.jpg]


Flea markets are becoming more popular in Germany but are usually held at intermittent times, say every month or so at certain locations, usually a parking lot near a large shopping area and usually on a Sunday. These German Flohmarkts usually have a large number of vendors from Poland selling all manner of goods, some of which look like throw-outs from the Russian army.

When buying items at flea markets, start negotiating way below the asking price. Even though the vendor sees you as a rich American tourist, there's no need to throw money at him. If something catches your fancy buy it now because you'll never see it again.

If you are a serious seeker of cheap curiosities the best place to start is by buying one of the Travel Keys books by Peter B. Manston. His encyclopedic pocket size Manston's Flea Markets, Antique Fairs, and Auctions of Germany will get you started. This is out of print but used editions are available on Amazon.com. Peter has similar books on Britain, France, and Italy.

Second Hand and Antique Shops

I love to prowl through second hand shops. I can't recall any Salvation Army or Goodwill stores in Europe but there are commercial stores selling second hand stuff. They are amazingly cheap. If you are moving to Europe for a few years second hand shops would be a good place to get your tableware and pots and pans.

Antique shops are more expensive and are a good source for jewelry and dust collectors.

An open air market in Varna, Bulgaria.
Oh boy! -- an open air market in Varna, Bulgaria. You can find almost any household item in these markets, plus some unusual foods and homemade booze. I would be careful with the homemade hootch. [2306-VarnaFleaMarket.jpg]


Street Vendors

There are a few places which still have the classical fellow who comes up to you on the street with an armload of wrist watches up his sleeve. If you buy a famous brand name from one of these vendors, it's certainly a forgery. If it keeps running long enough for you to take it home with you, U. S. Customs can confiscate it.

In Lisbon, I was approached at least once a day by chaps trying to sell me a "gold ring." Each ring looked identical, and each probably would have given me a case of green finger.

In eastern Europe there are a large number of street vendors who have set up tables in town squares or on busy boulevards. Books are the most common items of merchandise in Kiev and some other cities. In Budapest, one street used to be lined with women selling embroidered cloths. It looked like a human clothesline and disappeared quickly when a policeman appeared. I bought two books of beautiful Russian stamps from an enterprising fellow in the main square of Warsaw and some brass inlaid wooden boxes from another. At first it seemed rather blasphemous to be dealing in such a beautiful place but I couldn't pass up those bargains. Distilled spirits are another common item. I bought a half liter of Stolichnaya vodka for a dollar from one vendor in Bulgaria. The same bottle in a store in L'viv, Ukraine cost me 25¢.

The Shakespeare & Company bookstore in Paris. The Shakespeare & Co. bookstore is a landmark in Paris, France. I lived a few blocks away and often found myself prowling around in here. [DSC0074-ShakespeareCo.jpg]
Postcards, Posters, Wall Calendars

You'll find a great variety of postcards: art reproductions, photos of cathedrals, nudes, and watercolors of 19th century street scenes. Prices of similar cards can vary considerably from shop to shop. The best prices can usually be found on the side streets and in open-air markets. Many cafes in Holland have a rack of free postcards, though they may not be to your taste.

Museums always have shops which sell reproductions, books, and miscellaneous mememtos. Get a mailing tube to protect your stuff as you travel. If you are planning to buy posters on the street, maybe buy a mailing tube at an office supply store. Tubes are usually not available at poster stores or from the dealers along the Seine River in Paris. Tubes can be crushed in the mail. One defense is to pack them as full as possible before mailing them home.

Wall calendars available in book stores and office supply stores make good souvenirs, and gifts. You can find well illustrated calendars featuring art, architecture, old lithographs, and other images. My beautiful 1992 Moscow calendar is still hanging on the wall almost 20 years later, right next to my 1994 Prague calendar.

Europe is getting more and more shopping centers like the City Galerie in Aschaffenburg, Germany. The City Galerie enclosed shopping center in Aschaffenburg has 50 specialty shops, four department stores, and plenty of covered parking. Most stores in Germany close at 2pm on Saturday, except once a month, so get up and shop early. [2303-AschaffenburgCityGalerie.jpg]>/font>

The Blarney Castle souvenir shop outside Cork, Ireland features plenty of Waterford Crystal. The Blarney Castle souvenir shop outside Cork, Ireland features plenty of Waterford crystal and various products emblassoned with Guinness, amongst many other items. Ireland has changed its name, according to me. It is now Guinness Island. [101N0437.jpg]


REAL SHOPPING

Department Stores

A visit to a major city isn't complete without a shopping trip through the major department stores and downtown specialty shops. Here you'll find the culture of modern civilization, descendants of the crude tools and pottery you went to see in the museums. Even if you're not buying, go and take a look.

For instance, visit the Kaufhof in Munich, the Galeries Lafayette and Printemps in Paris, the NK and Åhléns in Stockholm, Harrods in London, de Bijenkorf in Amsterdam, and El Corte Inglés in Madrid to name a few. Other major cities in each country have branch stores of the same name. Some of everything can be seen in these major department stores, and they often have a supermarket in the basement and a good cheap restaurant on the top floor with a view of the city. My favorite department store is BHV (the "bay hash vay") on rue de Rivoli across from the Hôtel de Ville in Paris. The basement is a fascinating hardware store. Handyman types will find an incredible assortment here, and in other hardware stores throughout Europe.

The El Corty Engles department store in Madrid, Spain at Christmas.

Crowds gather outside the El Corte Inglés department store in Madrid, Spain for the annual "Cortylandia" window display. Christmas shopping in Europe is just as maddening as it is at home. [2314-MadridElCorte.jpg]


You can almost always find a clerk in the big department stores who speaks English. In some stores, clerks wear name badges with miniature flags of the nations whose language they speak. Don't look for the American flag though. Look for the British Union Jack.

Browse through clothing stores, sporting goods stores, bookstores, and furniture stores for unusual and useful items that suit your fancy and are not found in the United States.

The beautiful Galeries Lafayette department store in Paris, France.
The beautiful Galleries Lafayette department store in Paris, France is an experience not to miss. Have fun! Like many department stores throughout Europe there are several restaurants and cafes, one with a bird's eye view of the north side of Paris. This is the interior Christmas display. The exterior was equally impressive. [DSC0737-GalleriesLafayette.jpg]


The Stockmann department store in Tallinn, Estonia.
The Stockmann department store in Tallinn, Estonia is well stocked. I had a great breakfast of herring, salmon, and salad in the Stockmann cafe. Buffet items are weighed at the register and sold by the amount you take. It's a bargain. The foreign exchange office in this store gives good rates. [P1160009-TallinnStockmann.jpg]


First Floor

Note that in stores and hotels and office buildings all over Europe, the "first floor" is what we call the second floor. Don't stand there confused when you walk in asking for gloves and are directed up to the first floor. The floor at ground level has various names, depending on the country. Many large department stores have one or two floors below ground level. This is usually the bargain basement and/or a grocery store.

The large and specialty stores will ship purchases home so you don't have to carry them. When they do this the VAT, value added tax, which is already included in the posted price can be refunded to you, but a shipping charge is added which approximates the amount of the tax. Getting your VAT returned is not a work of joy. See chapter 24, Shipping Your Treasures Home from Europe.

Open hours for the store Potten & Pannen in Praha.



Potten & Pannen (Pots & Pans) in Prague is open on Monday from noon to 6 pm, Tuesday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm, and closed on Sunday. The Czech Republic is famous for its beautiful cut stemware. We brought home some champagne glasses. [2302]

Grocery Stores

Grocery shopping can range from modern supermarkets to shop hopping for bread, meat, dairy products, and fresh produce in a half dozen provincial-type shops and open-air markets. There are some advantages to the provincial way of life, but you can eat up a whole morning just buying a sack of groceries. Goods, especially bread, are usually fresher at the individual shops. But open hours are limited and the quantity of goods is limited. Shop early. Enclosed shopping malls are becoming more common in Europe. These usually include a super market and/or various specialty food shops. Super markets are springing up everywhere and the days of the small shops might be numbered.

A fish shop in Haarlem, Netherlands.


A typical Holland fish shop in Haarlem, Netherlands. I just love raw herring, known to the Dutch as haring. [P1240451-HaarlemFishShop.jpg]


You'll notice some differences as you shop. For example, fresh produce may be selected for you by the shopkeeper, or by an attendant in large supermarkets. You can't always paw over the fruits and vegetables to get an unblemished, perfectly ripe item. In some stores milk and eggs are often left out at room temperature, not kept in refrigerated cases. Room temperature in many stores is often quite cold. The Dutch dairy products shops are a treat. Each cheese can be tasted before you buy. One of my favorites is boeren kaas, "farmer's cheese."

Supermarket in the basement of a large department store in Stockholm, Sweden.
In the basement supermarket of a large Stockholm, Sweden department store, take a number for service at the meat, fish, or cheese counters, or help yourself to packaged products just like home. Notice that the woman in the foreground has brought her own rolling shopping bag. This is fairly common in Europe. [2313-StockholmMeatMarket.jpg]


Bring your kid when you go to a German meat counter and the toddler will be given a small piece of sausage or a hot dog. Yes, they are fully cooked so you can eat them "raw." Stephanie had a free lunch on many of our shopping trips.

In the eastern countries, the situation is different. I've seen scores of people standing in stores in some cities waiting for whatever they can get at government controlled prices. Meanwhile at the farmers market, all sorts of meats and vegetables are for sale at free market prices.

The enclosed farmer's market in Kiev.

At the indoor farmer's market meat is left out on butcher block tables for your selection in Kyiv (Kiev), Ukraine. [2320-KievMarket.jpg]


The butcher shops are hardly different from the meat counters in some grocery stores and delicatessens at home. Meat is left open and unwrapped in glass cases, sometimes refrigerated. Point to the item you want, or try to pronounce it. Same goes for the fish shops, though the fish is always on ice.

If you are in Paris stop at Place Maubert, on Boulevard Saint Germain a couple of blocks east of Boulevard St. Michel. There is a group of shops where you can buy almost anything — cheeses, meat, fish, wine, flowers, etc. Twice a week there is a farmer's market in the square. I lived a couple of blocks away and was a regular customer. The President of France, François Mitterrand, lived in the neighborhood on rue de Bièvre, with a couple of policemen standing at ease at each end. France doesn't have a "white house" giving free rent to the reigning culprit in charge.

One problem with all these butcher and baker shops is the waiting lines, or mobs. When you walk in, look around and note the people who are present. Keep your eye over both shoulders checking out new arrivals to make sure that no one makes an end run to the counter. During busy shopping hours, there may be ten customers for each shopkeeper. Keep inching forward or you could be in there all afternoon. If there's a large mob in a store, look around for the "take-a-number" dispenser. These are becoming more common.
The top of a carton of 10 eggs in the Netherlands.
You wanted to buy a dozen eggs? Sorry, they come in cartons of ten in Holland. [2317-HollandEggCarton.jpg]


Usually in Europe you must bag your own groceries, in your own bag. If you didn't bring a bag, the store will usually sell you a sturdy plastic one for the equivalent of about 25¢. It can carry about 15 bottles of beer. Then you have a panic job of bagging your groceries before those of the next customer come shooting down the ramp. Don't expect consideration, much less a smile, from the cashier.

A small market in San Sebastian, Spain.
A small market like this one in San Sebastian, Spain can offer all the provisions you need for the next couple of days. In a nearby wine shop I saw Nivara D.O. crianza for €2,59 (about $3.60) per bottle. That's mighty fine drinking for a mighty fine price. [P1030125-SanSebastianMarket.jpg]


A drugstore in Tallinn, Estonia.
As is typical throughout Europe, this drugstore in Tallinn, Estonia has its open hours posted on the front door, and has the names and addresses of other drugstores in case this one is closed. In most cities there is a rotating shift of drugstores open or available around the clock. The neon green cross is the standard sign of drugstores. This one also displays the age-old symbol of the medical profession, the caduceus, a winged staff enveloped by two snakes. [P1150478-TallinnApteek.jpg]


Warranties

Items purchased outside the United States are not covered by warranties issued by American manufacturers or distributors of those products. And there is a small chance that foreign purchased products do not meet United States safety standards. They may even be inferior goods with forged brand labels from our "friends" in China.

On the other hand, manufacturers and stores in Europe can bend over backwards to make the customer happy. I bought a used bicycle in Holland from a bike dealer. About six months later, the crank hub broke off. The frame was completely ruined. I went to the bike shop and was told to bring the bike in and the manufacturer would repair it. I did and they did, except that they gave me a completely new frame and reassembled the bike. Cost? Nada. That's the Sparta bicycle company in Holland for you, the kind of company you wish there were more of. I never heard of any other firm which would completely rebuild a broken item for free. And mine was years old when I bought it second hand. That was the third bike that I bought in Holland.

BARGAINS

Although almost everything costs more in Europe, there are a few items to be had at a lower price than at home.

The Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey.
Elizabeth's favorite souvenir of the places she visits is a locally painted ceramic plate to hang on the wall. Here she is in the amazing Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey negotiating a new find. Of course she also bought a carpet and that nice leather backpack. A gang of brazen gypsies nearly had their hands in her backpack as we walked on a busy boulevard in Istanbul. I couldn't believe it as Elizabeth suddenly started swinging at these girls without warning. I didn't know what had transpired. The gypsies didn't succeed in getting anything, and they jumped into a waiting car and were off before I could get a good picture. [2308-IstanbulBazaar.jpg]


Tulip certificate of inspection. One of my favorite souvenirs is another few dozen Dutch tulip bulbs, now planted around in the yard. Make sure that the bulbs you buy have this certificate attached or the U.S. Department of Agriculture will confiscate them as you pass through Customs on your return. [tulipcertificate.jpg]


Where To Buy

Prices are normally lower in the country of origin, and lower yet in the city where made or at the factory itself. One notable example of this is Swedish table crystal and decorative handmade glass articles. These are sold at about one-fourth of the American retail price at factory showrooms. The major brands are Boda, Kosta, and Orrefors, which are also the names of the towns in southern Sweden where the glass is made. A number of other towns between Vaxjo and Kalmar are also in this business. The items on sale are seconds, but are hardly distinguishable from those on display in fashionable American stores.

Cut glass is also a specialty in the Czech Republic and the prices are very good, even on major boulevards in Praha (Prague). Other glass items are also well priced. I bought a couple of glass laboratory condensers for a couple dollars each in a side-street shop. Eastern and southern Europe have more bargains because the price of nearly everything is lower in those areas.

Not only are the prices lower but the selection is much greater for Swiss watches and Swiss army knives when you shop in Switzerland. Stephanie and I got knives for ourselves and for gifts in Geneva. Elizabeth bought a watch on our trip south from Germany. It's a no-brainer.

Beer coasters from around Europe. Beer coasters from around Europe are my always souvenirs. They are free. I have hundreds of them. [2330-BeerCoasters.jpg ]

Freebees

There are a few "free" souvenirs. One item that I indulge in is the paper coasters used in bars and cafes throughout Europe. Each carries the emblem of the house brew. There is usually a stack of them within easy reach on the bar or on the table. Or take the wet one under your own glass. If you're a label saver, ask your waiter to steam the label off your dinner wine bottle. Usually he will accommodate you. If he balks take the bottle back to your hotel room and do it yourself. Matches are also a nice free souvenir when you find them. Most matches in Europe, even book matches, are wooden.

I do not take towels from hotels, but I do liberate ash trays from restaurants. I ask for the glass and ceramic ones but I just pocket the plastic ones. At one of my favorite restaurants in Amsterdam, the Luden, I asked the waitress for one of their nice glass ashtrays. She went to the kitchen to check on it and came back with a comment that they are running low on them and couldn't let me have it. Later, the maître d' came by as I was admiring the candle holder. I wasn't going to ask, but she told me that I couldn't have it, and then she volunteered the ashtray! Thanks. On my way out our waitress said that she was sorry that I could not take the ashtray. I smiled. The restaurant Luden has been my favorite in Amsterdam for years — good food, ambience, service, and prices. Sorry, but you probably won't find any ashtrays in there any more. Holland is 100% smoke free, except for the "coffee shops," a euphemistic term for stores selling mary jane. After dinner I visit the Hoppe brown bar, a short walk south. It's the best meeting place in Amsterdam, for centuries. For the best lunch step over to the Café Luxembourg.

Actually indoor smoking is now prohibited almost everywhere in Europe so the supply of ashtrays has diminished considerably. They are still plentiful at outdoor cafes.

The souvinir shop at Rosslyn Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland. The souvenir shop at Rosslyn Chapel, Edinburgh, Scotland features the books you would expect. [102N0214.jpg]

CAVEAT SHOPPING

Embargoed

Some items for sale overseas are prohibited from entry to the United States, or require a permit for entry. A few examples are: firearms, fruits, plants, meats, uncured cheeses, drug paraphernalia, and a long list of other items. Violations can be expensive and embarrassing.

All goods from some countries are prohibited. Cuban cigars are sold throughout Europe but you cannot bring them home because of an Executive Order signed by President John F. Kennedy way back in 1962. That was after he stocked up his humidor with thousands of Cuban cigars. Beautiful and expensive Iranian carpets are sold in Istanbul but are not admitted to the USA because of Executive Order No. 12613 signed by President Ronald Reagan in 1987. Iran has been a PITA for decades.

The WMF company has retail kitchen utensil shops through Germany.

WMF stores are located throughout Germany. You can spend some time shopping for kitchen ware here. They have thousands of things that you never knew you needed. These are German goods so you know they are not cheap. Other manufacturers also have their own retail shops. [2301-WMFStore.jpg]


Forged Labels

Forgery of trade marks is a serious problem for producers of high fashion wear, tennis shoes, entertainment goods, computer software, and other overpriced items.

When you return home, US Customs can confiscate any forged or copied item. Chapter 25, Passing Customs Know the Rules When Crossing Borders will introduce you to regulations of the US Customs Service.

Unusual Offers

While it was still communist, Elizabeth and I visited Budapest for a week. We did the city tour, bought some souvenirs, and splurged for dinner a couple of times. At lunch in one restaurant we admired the espresso cups. They included a small "hat" to place over the cup to keep the java hot. Elizabeth asked where she could buy these and after some discussion between the waitress and the manager, he offered to sell them to us.

We bought a set of six, but before leaving the restaurant a rather portly gentleman appeared from the kitchen. He was the owner and had come out to look around. We didn't know it at the time we made the deal but it seemed that the manager had sold something that was not his to sell. He already had our money, and we had most of the coffee set in our day bags. But, Elizabeth had rejected one cup due to a defect and she wanted a good one. We waited some 20 minutes for a good cup to appear. Finally, from a nook near the stairs, the manager signaled us to leave and discreetly put the last cup in my conveniently unzipped day bag as we walked past him out of sight of the owner. I guess it could have been jail time for all of us if we had blinked.

A Systembolaget booze and wine store in Stockholm, Sweden All beer, booze, and wine sold in Sweden is sold by the government monopoly Systembolaget. This can be a problem for congruent connoisseurs of fine spirits traveling on a budget. The Systembolaget operates on the premise that every drinker is also a millionaire. Therefore, bring your beverages from the duty free shop on the ferry like every self-respecting tax-dodging Swede. Then you won't have to search all over Stockholm for one of these stores with restricted hours and astronomical prices. [P1130256-Systembolaget.jpg]


Beer for sale in a small Dutch grocery store. In Holland you can buy beer and wine in every grocery store. This is the beer display in a small market in Haarlem, Netherlands. If you had a bushel of wheat you could make bread. You could also make beer. After giving this momentous question two seconds of thought I decide that I am thirsty. Beer is food. [P1240453-BeerDisplay.jpg]

Wine

Buying wine and returning it to the USA is a worthwhile diversion as you travel in Europe. It is relatively easy to find wine shops in the major cities which will help you select some good souvenirs and package them for your return flight. But you can no longer bring open market wine in carry-on luggage, since August 2006. You must now put your wine in checked luggage, and I do not guarantee that it will arrive or arrive in one piece. See chapter 6, A Packing List for Europe for the latest airline carry-on luggage rules.

Many states in the USA restrict or prohibit entry of alcoholic beverages. Those are the states with the most churches. Even though Jesus made wine you better be careful that you don't commit a felony by bringing some ruby liquids into these states. Review chapter 25, Passing Customs: Know the Rules When Crossing Borders for more information.

Buying wine in Burgundy
We were driving by so I stopped in Burgundy again to taste and buy. This region has a magnet out for me. Stephanie shot this as I waited for my wine purchase paperwork. A certificate is issued when you buy en vrac (in bulk). You can buy 10 or 20 liter containers from the merchant, or bring your own. Get free labels, and buy bottles and corks separately if you want to bottle it and put some away. Drinking French wine helps you speak French. Oui!! These are my summer driving clothes in Europe. [2310-WinePurchase.jpg]





NOTE TO READERS

I welcome questions and comments. If you have any concerns about your trip to Europe that have not been covered well enough in this chapter do not hesitate to write and ask. My email address is johnbermont@enjoy-europe.com.

When you write please include as much detail as possible. There are about 50 countries in Europe. It will help me answer if you mention the countries and/or cities you plan to visit. I will reply in a day or two.

Don't forget to scroll through the Table of Contents below. The other 29 chapters of HOW TO EUROPE are also available, free to read on line. In addition, the Google search box below can locate specific subjects in any chapter or page on site.

For a check-off punchlist of everything go to The Finale, Packing List and Last Call What You Need to Travel in Europe, All in One Place.

If you know of someone else who would appreciate reading this web page please send the URL link to him or her. To easily do that, click your "File" tab in the tool bar and scroll down to "Send" or "Send Link." Your friend will thank you, and I thank you.


Who wrote this?

Home and general index.
Table of Contents
HOW TO EUROPE
The Complete Travelers Handbook

All of the text, updated to May 2010, is available on line, FREE. Updated photographs with captions are available on line for those chapters as noted "with illustrations."
The entire book, copyright 2003, can be purchased by clicking Amazon.com.
Chapter 1, with illustrations.
What's It All About?
In Europe, Travel Like a Native


Chapter 2
On Budget in Europe
Travel Costs


Chapter 3
Passport and Visas for Europe
Identity and Travel Documents


Chapter 4
Flying to Europe
Travel Starts at the Airport


Chapter 5
What to Wear in Europe
Travel Clothes for all Occasions


Chapter 6
Your Packing List for Europe
A Short List of Travel Accessories


Chapter 7
Luggage for Europe
Travel Light, Travel Light, Travel Light


Chapter 8
Cash, ATMs, Credit Cards, Personal Checks
Travel with Each in Europe


Chapter 9
Your Travel Diary of Europe
Notes Supplement Your Photos


Chapter 10
Guide Books, Maps, Dictionaries
Travel in Europe with a Good Guide Book


Chapter 11
Electricity in Europe
Travel Voltage Fundamentals


Chapter 12, with illustrations.
Photography in Europe
Travel with Your Camera


Chapter 13
Bring a Smile
Travel Europe in Good Attitude


Chapter 14
European Hotels, Hostels, B&Bs, Private Homes
Sleep Options for Travel in Europe


Chapter 15
Eating Your Way through Europe
Travel on Your Belly


Chapter 16
Getting Around Town in Europe
Travel by Bus, Streetcar, Subway, Taxi, Bike, and Shoe


Chapter 17, part 1,
with illustrations.
Trains in Europe
Travel Europe by Train, Bus, and Ferry


Chapter 17, part 2,
with illustrations.
Trains in Europe
European rail details


Chapter 17, part 3,
with illustrations.
Night Trains in Europe
Travel Europe by Train, Bus, and Ferry


Chapter 17, part 4,
with illustrations.
European Bus and Ship Services
Travel Europe by Train, Bus, and Ferry


Chapter 18
Driving in Europe
Travel by Car, Van, or Motorcycle


Chapter 19, part 1
Telephoning to, from, and within Europe
Codes, 10-10, telephone cards, cellular phones, PTT


Chapter 19, part 2
Sending Mail to & from Europe
Air Mail, Priority, PTT, Poste Restante, Amex


Chapter 19, part 3
Internet and Email in Europe
Cyber Cafes, Keyboards, Password, Your Laptop


Chapter 19, part 4
Telegrams
Wiring Cash and Keeping in Touch


Chapter 20
Health and Safety in Europe
Travel in Confidence but with Caution


Chapter 21
Working in Europe
Travel for Free


Chapter 22, part 1
Moving to Europe
Travel to the Max as an Expatriate


Chapter 22, part 2
Living in Europe
Travel to the Max as an Expatriate


Chapter 23, with illustrations.
Shopping in Europe
Buy Your Souvenirs, Gifts, and Necessities


Chapter 24
Shipping Your Treasures Home from Europe
Travelers Have a Number of Options


Chapter 25
Passing Customs in Europe
Know the Rules When Crossing Borders


Chapter 26
Languages, Numbers, Alphabets
Encounter The Tower of Babel in Europe


Chapter 27
The Metric System in Europe
Traveling with Grams, Meters, Liters, and Celsius


Chapter 28
Time and Dates in Europe
Travel in a Different Time Zone


Chapter 29
The Weather in Europe
Travel with Your Umbrella


Chapter 30
Melding with Europe
Travel Is Interesting and Entertaining




The Finale
Packing List and Last Call
What You Need to Travel in Europe,
All in One Place
Learn the basic infrastructure:

Prime Travel Data
Elementary Travel Information for Europe
Austria
Belgium
Czech Republic
Denmark
Finland

France
Germany
Greece
Ireland
Italy
Luxembourg
Netherlands
Norway
Portugal
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom

Utilize John Bermont's exclusive:

TRAVELERS YELLOW PAGES
A Directory of Links to Products, Services, and Information
Airlines to Europe
National Tourist Offices
City Tourist Offices
City Information and Tours
Country Information and Tours
Luggage and Backpacks
Discount Air Travel
Villas and Homes for Rent
Hostels in Europe
Hotels in Europe
Auto Rental in Europe
Rail Services of Europe
Eclectic Travel Sites
Internet Search Engines
Photography
Guide Books for Europe
Educational Programs
Newsletters from Europe
Personal Travel Pages
Personal Trip Planning

Get open hours, costs, locations, and more:

Travelers Portfolio
Essential Visitors Information for the Top Sights of Europe
       Amsterdam       
Anne Frank Huis
Rijksmuseum
Van Gogh Museum
       London       
British Museum
Buckingham Palace
National Gallery
Natural History Museum
Palace of Westminster
St. Paul's Cathedral
Tower of London
Westminster Abbey
       Paris coming soon       
Arc de Triomphe
Tour Eiffel
Hôtel des Invalides
Musée de l'Armée
Opera
Montmarte
Cathédrale Notre Dame
Musée d'Orsay
Musée du Louvre

Exchange rates, weather, maps:

Up-To-The-Minute
Be informed before you go.
       Money Exchange
Currency exchange rates, including the euro, British pound, Swiss Frank.
       Weather in Europe
Current European weather conditions and forecasts. Good luck.
    Maps and Time Zones
Free online maps of Europe. Guide to setting your watch ahead.

Captioned photos from Europe

PhotoLog
Pictures of what we do in Europe.
       Queen's Day
Holland hosts a great one-day party, annually on April 30. Here is the action in Haarlem and Amsterdam.
       Keukenhof
A beautiful huge tulip garden blooms during middle spring. We made a leisurely bike ride from Haarlem.
       Bull Flight
My daughter Stephanie enters the ring and encounters a baby bull in Spain, then flies for her life!

Didn't find what you need yet?
Google It !!
 

Copyright
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travel guide to
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SM


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345 b/w photos
Last Call checklists
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The Complete Travelers Handbook
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FLAGS of EUROPE

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Keywords for this chapter:
shopping, souvenirs, gifts, wine, cigars
duty free VAT

Shopping in Europe
Souvenirs, Gifts, and Stuff You Can't Live Without