Shopping
The best shopping in the world - international markets, stores, streets and neighborhoods to wander.
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Travel Journal: Wandering through Le Marché aux Puces de Saint Ouen Paris, France
There is something so romantic about going to the flea market in Paris– oh the treasures you might find! Here is a travel story about visiting the famed markets in Paris, France.
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Culture: Shopping – Holiday Window Shopping Traditions
One of my favorite memories during the holidays growing up was getting dressed up and going to “the City” or San Francisco with my mom and sisters to see the holiday windows! I’d have to wear a dress, tights and my mary janes, so I knew it was a big event. Peeking into these imaginative window displays was like entering into a different world – glittery trees, toys, lights, clothes, dressed up manaquins, trains, music and so much more. The windows with animatronics or moving elements were the best! I even had the opportunity to see the holiday windows in New York City one year. How magical! As my kids…
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Culture: Food – Fresh Farmers Markets in the South and East
When exploring any city, I love to head over to the local farmers market. It’s always a great way to a flavor of the local scene as well as pick up some delicious bites to eat. Here are some must-see farmers markets along the eastern seaboard! Charleston Farmers Market – Charleston, South Carolina Located in the heart of the historic district in Marion Square, the Charleston Farmers Market supports Lowcountry farmers and growers, artisans and crafters, live performers and community groups. From locally grown produce to Southern specialties, residents from the entire Lowcountry region and tourists alike enjoy this farmers market tradition. The Market at Pepper Place – Birmingham, Alabama Serving…
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Culture: Food – Fresh Farmers Markets of the Midwest
I remember stumbling upon the Dane County Farmers Market in Madison, Wisconsin in October. The variety of apples that were for sale astounded me. This is where I tried my first Honeycrisp apple and fell in love (luckily, this variety is a staple at most stores even out on the West coast now.) Below are some highlights of delicious Farmer Markets in the midwest – most of which are even open (at indoor locations) during the harsher winter months. Boulder County Farmers Market – Boulder, Colorado With one of the longest market seasons in the state, Boulder County Farmers Market has been a thriving community event for almost 30 years.…
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Culture: Food – Fresh Farmers Markets of the West Coast
Whenever I travel, I always seek out the local farmers market. It’s the perfect place to not only pick up a snack or bite to eat, but also a great way to enjoy the local culture. It’s amazing how at each locale, you’ll instantly get a sense of not only the types of foods that are grown in this region, but also can see what is trendy in that city – from specialty foods, crafts and more. Here is a few popular Farmers Markets on the West Coast of the United States– each with their own flavor and all worth a visit. Ferry Plaza Farmers Market – San Francisco, California San Francisco’s…
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Culture: Shopping – Harajuku, Shibuya, Takeshita Street & Cat Street in Tokyo
A trip to Tokyo is not complete without a shopping outing in 2 very trendy and youthful neighborhoods, Harajuku and Shibuya. Narrow streets snake behind the big roads and are filled with boutiques and shops brimming with the latest Tokyo fashions. Whether you are a kid or not, one must browse through Kiddyland, a several storied shop filled with iconic cartoon characters and Japanese pop culture. There is nothing subtle about Tokyo fashion! Bright colors with bold graphics were abound. Popular trends from other cultures were also seen– there were lots of clothes with references to Brooklyn, New York, cowboys, and British punk! Once you’ve browsed the main boulevards and small back streets of…
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On Location: Salmagundi West, Vancouver – A Whimsical Shop for the Curious
I’m not sure if it was the trumpet soldered to the exterior window gates or the vintage magic poster hanging out front– but I was already sold that this was definitely the shop for me before I even stepped inside! Salmagundi West is located in the Gastown neighborhood of Vancouver, British Columbia. It is part antique store, part gift store, and full of curious fun! Upon entering the shop, my husband sighed, “I think Mom will be here for awhile.” Both kids entered with fingers out ready to explore. My first instinct was to harp my motherly phrase, “no touching kids,” but then I looked up and read the sign…
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Type+Place: Pike Place Market
I have yet to be at the Seattle Public Market when there wasn’t hoards of crowds. Last weekend, it wasn’t any different– in fact, I must say it was actually worse. My guess is it had to be because of the weather. Unlike most grey, drizzly days in the Northwest, the sun was out and couldn’t have been shining any brighter. Spring was in the air and everyone was enjoying it! Despite the crowds, there’s nothing like a visit to Pike Place Market when in Seattle. The fresh fish, flowers, veggies and more are a sight to see, but if you look beyond the vendors there is also fabulous typography.…
