Useful conversions: Right now, one Australia dollar (AUD) converts to about $1.06 USD. One kilogram is about 2.2 lbs. Regarding sizing for women, an 8 is typically the smallest size found in shirts or dresses, and it is equivalent to a small or a US 4, where as a 20 is a US 16. Shoe sizing is generally the same, but taking the time to try items on will be worth your time.

You might be surprised by the high cost of food in Australia. I was reluctant to dine anywhere at all, until I realized all the prices were the same – expensive. Australia might be a good place to start going on a diet. It’s easier to skip the soda that you usually order with your dinner if they’re charging $3 for a small glass. Bananas can currently be found at a frighteningly high $17.00 per kilogram. At a farmer’s market, the prices were cheaper, but my sister was still unsuccessful in an attempt to buy banana with 2 AUD in hand. Granted, the recent flood in Queensland might have something to do with those high prices.

Do you have a Costco membership card? My family was surprised to find out that there was a Costco warehouse not far from the center of Melbourne. It offers a wonderful view of the Southern Star, an observation Ferris wheel currently under reconstruction (pictured to the right).  By July, there will also be warehouses open in Auburn, NSW, and Canberra, ACT. We saved money by buying some produce and breakfast items there, so we would eat in a few times.

Another way to save money in Australia is by asking locals about the cheaper malls in the area. One family in Perth advised us to check out the Garden City Shopping Centre and the Hay and Murray street malls, but to only buy items when in the Harbour Town Shopping Centre. It was fun to experience all three, but Harbour Town was by far the cheapest for the same quality.

Getting souvenirs? We regretted buying a few boomerangs at a market in Perth when we saw how cheap they were at the Queen Victoria’s Market, the largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere, in Melbourne. Buy your souvenirs there in Melbourne if you get the chance.

This time last year, I began my weekly visits to Bed Bath and Beyond. It began with a few small purchases such as a desk lamp and a shower tote. Then, it turned into bed bug protectors, and then the Egyptian cotton fiber bed. The list goes on! So, Mom, here is the list of MUST HAVES for your child’s first year of college!

1. The Bed: keep an eye out for Macy’s ONE DAY SALE! (they are random!) You may even consider opening up a Macy’s Credit Card to receive a first purchase discount as well as STAR Rewards which include coupons for 20% off or $20 off! Start off with the bedding! Remember most colleges have beds that are TWIN EXTRA LONG. Plenty of stores and websites like macys.com have a “bed-in-a-bag” that will make your life easy! If you want to get fancy, you can get Macy’s Charter Club 500 Thread Count sheets in Twin XL as well for the ultimate comfort for your college kid! The next crucial thing is the bed bug protector. It sounds discouraging but it is necessary! I would also recommend either an egg crate or an Egyptian Cotton Fiber Bed. It is like having a pillow top on your not-so-plush-dorm room bed. They are also available in a feather bed. Another critical purchase: bed-risers! They come as high as seven inches and allow for ample storage space under the bed!
2. The “kitchen”: Most first-years lack a kitchen in their dorm room. However, you can make it work by having a small refrigerator and a microwave! Easy-Mac becomes a close friend to most! The best budget buy: the Keurig. The smallest one costs about $89 (without the coupon!) and the K-Cups average around $13.99. TIP: buy them at Gloria Jeans and get a frequent buyer card and eventually earn enough “hole punches” to get $10 off! (Last week I got 25 K-Cups for $3.99!) It saves a lot of money during the year and allows you to drink your coffee or tea whenever and wherever you please!
3. The bathroom: For most, a common bathroom is a bit of a shock. So, I would suggest you come prepared with the following:

• A plastic shower tote (the cloth ones never dry!)
• Flip Flops (Old Navy—some are available for only $1 on certain occasions!)
• Terry-Cloth bath robe
• DRYING RACK—very necessary! In a small dorm room with poor air circulation it is the only way your towels will dry!

Keep in mind that every student is different, but the objective here is to make sure your student is comfortable and to have him or her be as prepared as possible for the transition! And… always remember the coupons!

There are basically three kinds of places you can spend your money in Cape Town: malls, markets and factory shops.

Shopping Malls

There are seven major shopping malls in Cape Town, and this list includes: Cavendish Square, Constantia Village, Bayside Centre, Tygervalley, Somerset Mall, Canal Walk and, probably the best mall here, V&A Waterfront.

The best thing about these malls is you can buy almost anything South Africa offers here. From original and handmade artwork to designer clothes and cosmetics, V&A Waterfront is the place to go. Canal Walk is home to Mr. Price, a South African favorite. Mr. Price sells fashionable clothes at a bargain price, and customers have been known to inspect every square inch of the store to make sure they did not miss any bargains.

Markets

Open-air and craft markets also can be found in the streets of Cape Town. Greenmarket Square is the most popular market in Cape Town. You’ll find all sorts of African arts and crafts here, including jewelry, painting and kitchenware.

Another one is called the Pan American Market, which sources different African artifacts from all over the continent. If you want authentic tribal masks, be sure to visit this market.

Another market you can visit is the Woodstock Market. You won’t find a lot of African arts and crafts here. Instead, you’ll find different kinds of local African food and dishes.

They may sell different items but one thing is for sure: do not forget to barter for prices.

Factory Shops

There are a lot of factory shops in South Africa but a lot more situated in and near Cape Town. There really are too many to mention, and it also depends on the item you’re looking for. Just do a quick search and a list will pop up.

Because of its lower conversion rate, it’s easy to shop in Cape Town. And although they do charge a 14% VAT (Value-Added Tax), you’ll be able to refund this at the airport. Just be sure to bring your passport, receipt and the item.

Madrid, Spain

Although there are a lot department stores in Madrid, small specialty stores are its specialty. And there are dozens of shops that can be found in a number of shopping districts. Let me take you to them.

Salamanca

Salamanca is home to Calle Goya, Madrid’s main shopping street. If you’re looking for high-end, luxury items, Calle Goya is the place to visit. You’ll be able to buy products from Yves Saint Laurent, Donna Karan, Chanel, Versace, Gucci and many more signature brands. Madrid’s “most emblematic commercial center” also can be found in the Salamanca district, Centro Commercial ABC Serrano. This building houses up to three stories high of mostly high-fashion shops, jewelry stores and hairdressing salons. And you’ll also find a restaurant and bar at the rooftop terrace of the Centro Commercial ABC Serrano.

Puerto del Sol

Puerto del Sol houses some of the busiest shopping streets and most famous commercial centers in Madrid. Calle Preciados and its surrounding streets are pedestrian-only shopping streets and home to high-street fashion outlets and department stores, as well as traditional stores. If you’re looking to buy high-end clothes for men, then head on over to Gran Via not far away.

Chueca and Fuencarral

If you’re looking for something a little different, head on over to the Chueca and Fuencarral shopping districts. If you’d like to see and buy more unique and avant-garde fashion and products, visit the Chueca district, one of Madrid’s more cosmopolitan areas. Be sure to drop by the Fuencarral Market for some glamorous, outrageous and eccentric products. If you want anything out of the ordinary, be sure to visit this unique shopping district.

Next destination: Cape Town, South Africa

Bangkok, Thailand

Everybody shops in Bangkok because everything is cheap here. And the vendors in Bangkok sell everything imaginable. It’s amazing how they can do that. So, where do you go in Bangkok to shop for the best deals?

Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest markets in the world and open only on the weekends. A shopper’s paradise, stalls in Chatuchak Market sells anything and everything from clothes to books to plants, antiques, housewares and many more things that would be too numerous to list. You easily can get items for half the price (or better) of anywhere else. But be sure to haggle. In fact, learn some Thai words and phrases so you can haggle even better.

Panthip Plaza is the place to go to for all your computer needs. You’ll be able to find cheap computer accessories in this seven-story building. Computer software is also available here, but be careful. It’s hard to tell which stores are selling original software and copy software. Don’t buy the first thing you see, haggle and compare prices. That way, you’ll get a good deal.

There are many other places you can shop at in Bangkok. So, don’t blow your entire shopping budget in one place. Don’t forget to compare prices and always haggle.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

There are four shopping neighborhoods to keep in mind when shopping in Buenos Aires: Recoleta, San Telmo, El Centro and Palermo.

Recoleta is the most expensive and upscale shopping neighborhood in Buenos Aires. All items sold here are of European standard of quality, and some clothes and shoes are even made in Europe. A handicraft market is also open every weekend at the Recoleta Plaza. If antiques and flea markets are your thing, then San Telmo is the place to go. Flea markets are open on the weekends, including the best Antique fair in the city.

You’ll find Buenos Aires’ biggest shopping street at El Centro. The Avenue Florida, a pedestrian-only street, is filled with stores selling clothes, books, shoes, electronics and a lot of other items. And visit Galerias Pacifico, an upscale multi-level shopping center that is the most beautiful in the city. And if you want quirky, creative and unique items, then Palermo is the place to be.

Are you ready to max out your credit cards and overstuff your luggage?

Tell us about your favorite shopping destination in 2009!

Milan, Italy

Milan is the place to go to for high-end shopping, especially for furniture, fashion and design. The best place to visit for some high-end fashion shopping is Il Quadrilatero della Moda (square of fashion), composed of Via della Spiga, Via Montenapoleone, Via Sant’ Andrea and Via Manzoni. You’ll be able to find Italian names like Fendi, Valentino and Sergio Rossi. Other high-end fashion names that can be found in this square include Armani, Dolce and Gabbana, Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

If you can’t afford high-end shopping, you don’t have to worry. There are flea markets and street markets open on certain days in Milan. Via Papiniano hosts the largest street market open on Tuesdays and Saturdays, where stalls sell second-hand designer wares and brand new staples more cheaply than department stores. And if you like great food, the largest food market in Milan can be found at Piazza Wagner, which is open every day.

Dubai, UAE

If your main purpose for going to Dubai is shopping, then the perfect time to go will be anytime between mid-January and mid-February of every year. What’s happening then? Why, it’s Dubai Shopping Festival! Enjoy big discounts and daily raffles plus tax free shopping for a whole month! The Dubai Shopping Festival attracts as many as 3 million people from all over the world.

Hong Kong

Although Hong Kong has its own shopping festivals in February and August every year, Hong Kong is actually a shopping destination all year round. Go to Causeway Bay for never-ending shops. From clothing stores to watch shops to shoe stores to crazy Japanese inventions, you will never run out of shops to browse. You eventually will wave a white flag of surrender when you encounter one shop after another. Go to Wan Chai for the best deals in computers and computer accessories. Don’t forget to go to Hong Kong’s numerous street markets for shopping. Be sure to visit the Temple Street Night Market, which runs from 4pm to midnight. You’ll find dozens of stalls selling jewelry, bags, luggages and electronic gadgets, as well as street food items. Fortune tellers and Chinese opera performers also participate at the Temple Street Night Market.

Remember, though, when shopping at Hong Kong, always check the item carefully and haggle. But before you do that, be sure to shop around for better deals.

Next on the list: Bangkok and Buenos Aires.

1. New York City

One visit is not enough if you want go shopping in New York City. There are just too many shopping districts and neighborhoods in the city, and even outside, on the outer boroughs. But if you only have a few days, then let me suggest some not-to-be missed destinations. Drop by Lower Eastside for streetmarkets, Nolita for one-of-a-kind shops, Greenwich Village for specialty shops, Fifth Avenue and 57th St for designer brands. The list doesn’t end there. For more ideas, please visit Retail Therapy in Manhattan, More Retail Therapy in Manhattan and The Never-ending Shops in Manhattan.

2. Paris, France

Paris is THE fashion capital of the world and with good reason. So, it comes as no surprise that Paris is in the list of top shopping destinations in the world. Be sure to drop by the flea markets for some bargain hunting. Visit Saint Ouen Flea Market as well as Porte de Vanves and Porte de Mantreuil. Drop by Fauborg Saint-Honore for some designer brands shopping and the Marais for eclectic fashion.

3. London, England
Shopping in London is an event and not just a destination. So many places to go to, let’s hope we won’t run out of time trying to get to them all. Be sure to drop by Charing Cross Road for a great selection of books. Visit Commercial Street and the famous Spitalfields Market and its vintage fashion and antiques. Oxford Street, London’s busiest street, is always a good place to go as they have almost every store imaginable here. Regent Street is also a haven of shoppers, home to Hamleys, which used to be the largest toy shop in the world.

No matter where you go in these cities, you’ll surely find what you’re looking for.

Stay tuned for more shopping destinations. Next stop: Milan, Dubai and Hong Kong.

Uptown

1. Madison Avenue

Madison Avenue, between 57th and 79th Streets, is the most expensive retail real estate in the world. Cash is fine, but plastic will work better. The most luxurious (read: expensive) boutiques are located in this part of Manhattan. From Barney’s to Shanghai Tang to Lalique, be sure to keep your eyes open for celebrities shopping.

2. Upper West Side

The best shopping street here is Columbus Avenue. Between 66th Street and 86th Street, small shops for families and hipsters can be found to satisfy their retail therapy needs, including Maxilla and Mandible and Harry’s Shoes. You’ll find The Shops At Columbus Circle here, which houses the biggest retail names and offers a spectacular view of Central Park. You’ll find Williams Sonoma, Hugo Boss, Coach and a 59,000-square-foot Whole Foods Market.

3. Shopping One-Two-Five Street

Chain retail outlets have started appearing one-by-one at 125th Street. Old Navy, H&M and The Children’s Store are some of the stores that have popped open in this area. But Harlem hasn’t lost its identity. It still has its own hip-hop boutiques, like Jimmy Jazz and Jersey Man Cap USA. And the 125th St. Record Shack, with its collection of jazz, gospel, R&B and hip-hop, has not lost its touch since 1979.

Outer Boroughs

1. Williamsburg

If you’ve scoured the entire Manhattan island and still can’t get enough, then hop on the L train and take a ride to Williamsburg. Williamsburg is the new place to go shopping. A lot of the small shops in Manhattan have their original shops here. Visit Brooklyn Industries, and stock up on Brooklyn hoodies and sweatshirts. Go to Beacon’s Closet, Brooklyn’s best vintage music and clothes store. Be sure to drop by Earwax, where they store an eclectic music collection.

There you go. This concludes the Manhattan retail store series. Think you’re ready to take on the challenge now? Good luck! And be sure to watch your credit card that it doesn’t wear out.

Downtown

1. The East Village

The East Village is the place to go to for funky, bohemian and alternative shopping. First stop should be Tokio 7, a consignment store that sells designer items at low prices. If you need cash, you can drop off your own designer items and get 50% of the profit. If you want to buy some quirky decor for your place, drop by Exit 9 Gift Emporium, which can be best described as an upscale flea market.

2. Greenwich Village

If you’re looking for specialty bookstores, antique craft stores and gourmet food markets, drop by Greenwich Village. For food adventures, be sure to drop by Amy’s Bread and Murray’s Cheese. Specialty shops are interesting places to visit. Drop by Aedes de Venutas for amazing perfumes and The Porcelain Room for antique and modern porcelain items.

3. Chelsea/Meat-Packing District

If you’re looking for galleries, be sure to drop by the Chelsea District and visit the galleries, especially between 20th and 26th Streets (between Tenth and Eleventh Ave.). And the Meat-Packing District brings you more than just meat. Designer stores, galleries and services have parked their stores here. Visit Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen and Christian Louboutin.

4. Union Square

If you want to be in the center of everything, visit Union Square. Check familiar stores like Whole Foods, DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse), Virgin Megastore and Barnes & Noble. But the biggest reason to go to Union Square is the Greenmarket, the city’s biggest farmers market open 4 days a week.

Midtown

1. Times Square and Theatre District

This district doesn’t quite offer different shops for the shoppers since a lot of the shops here can be found just anywhere. There’s the Virgin MegaStore and Toys ‘R Us (with its own full-scale ferris wheel). There are a couple of electronics stores that are on the verge of “enter-at-your-own-risk” status. You may or may not get good deals, so always be careful and always be aware of going prices outside. Never ever back down.

2. Fifth Avenue and 57th St.

If you’re looking for the best in designer brands, you don’t have far to go. Just drop by Fifth Avenue to 57th Street. Here you’ll find Louis Vuitton, Versace, Chanel and Dior. You’ll also find the long-standing department stores, Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel and Saks Fifth Avenue. Drop by the department stores for browsing beautiful, expensive goods.

Next stop: Uptown and the Outer Boroughs

This will be a three-part series on New York City shopping because one part is not enough to discuss all the shopping districts in this town. So let’s start downtown.

Downtown

1. Lower Manhattan and the Financial District

This is the southernmost part of Manhattan and the center of business and government in New York City. It is also the fourth largest business district in the United States. Chinatown, Mott Street and South Street Seaport comprise some of the shopping districts in Lower Manhattan. Familiar stores like Abercrombie & Fitch and Ann Taylor can be found here (at South Street Seaport), as well as shops like Ting’s Gift Shop (Mott Street), where you can find good-quality Chinese toys, and the fish and herbal markets at Chinatown.

2. Lower Eastside

The Lower Eastside can be found at the southeast part of Manhattan. The best part about shopping here is the street markets. Alterna-shops are found here, including boutiques that sell alternative and bohemian fashion, retro furnishings, Japanese toys and other offbeat stuff. Visit Lower Eastside NY for a complete list of stores and shops.

3. SoHo

SoHo in New York City previously was associated with the arts. Located south of Houston Street, SoHo houses some of the biggest names in avant-garde fashion, but it also houses some one-of-a-kind boutiques that gives SoHo its unique identity. Look for The Hat Shop and the Museum of Modern Art Design Store.

4. Nolita

Nolita, which means North of Little Italy, consists of Elizabeth, Mott and Mulberry Streets. Expect to find one-of-a-kind shops here, meaning not-so-cheap items. Check out Indomix, with its South Asian inspired apparel, and Tracy Feith, with its pretty and bright-colored clothes for women. Be sure to check out Sigerson Morrison for their shoes and Push for their jewelry.

Next up: Downtown continued, Midtown and Uptown.

1. Magnificent Mile

Located on Michigan Avenue, the Magnificent Mile is the place to go to to find the best in designer and signature labels. You’ll find Hugo Boss, Bottega Veneta, Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo, among others. You’ll also find Cartier, Harry Winston, Levi’s, Louis Vuitton, as well as Macy’s, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales and Saks Fifth Avenue here. If you’re shopping here, be sure to adjust your credit card limit to its maximum spending limit.

625 North Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611; Tel. (312)642-3570

2. Downtown Loop

If you’re looking to shop at a more historic part of Chicago, drop by the Loop in downtown Chicago. This is the home of the historic Marshall Field’s store (which is now Macy’s). The Marshall Field’s store is known for its celebrity sightings and appearances, magnificent annual holiday window display and the twin clocks, which the locals always turns to for the time. Other stores include Old Navy, Gap, Brooks Brothers, Nine West and The Children’s Place.

3. River North

River North is probably the best Chicago neighborhood to visit when antique and furniture stores are needed. Cosulich Interiors and Antiques as well as Christa’s Antiques are the best antique stores to start with. The Ambiente Collection and Hastens Bed Shop are probably the best ones to shop around for furniture.

4. Wicker Park and Bucktown

If you’re looking to support local economy, be sure to drop by Wicker Park and Bucktown where local designers have set up shop. Check out Una Mae’s, Robin Richman and p. 45, as well as more famous stores including Marc by Marc Jacobs, Intermix and Cynthia Rowley.

Are your credit cards ready?

1. Newbury Street

The Newbury Street shops start at the Public Garden and go all the way west towards Massachusetts Avenue. This is a very trendy area of Boston and mostly tends to the upscale locals of the city. Highlights of the street include 1154 Lill Studio (a design-your-own-handbag shop that will be delivered to your own home a month later), Bliss (which promises to give you a wide variety of tableware and home accessories to choose from to satisfy every taste), Teuscher Chocolates Of Switzerland (sample the Champagne truffle, made with only the finest ingredients) and Stel’s (where fashion meets classic).

2. Harvard Square

Harvard Square is the place you go to when you want to surround yourself with the city’s history. Highlights of the place include the Harvard Coop (established in 1882 and is America’s largest college bookstore), Calliope (which features locally made and specialty clothing for kids until six years old), Hidden Sweets (a locally owned and operated candy and gifts store designed to satisfy your cravings) and The Harvard Shop (run by Harvard students and specializes in Harvard insignia merchandise).

3. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

The Faneuil Hall Marketplace used to be a market for fishermen, merchants and vendors until it evolved into what it is today, an urban marketplace. Shops to go to include Boston Campus Gear (sells activewear featuring the top universities and colleges in Boston), Newbury Comics (an independent store with all your music, movie and pop culture needs) and Funusual (a specialty shop that promises to satisfy your artsy, funky and unusual cravings).

Next time you’re in Boston, ditch the malls and stroll through these streets. You never know what you’re going to discover.

Other highlights of the Mile High Marketplace:

• You’ll find the only year round Farmer’s Market in Colorado (selling fresh produce and flowers, gourmet foods, and much more).
• You can go back into the past at Antique Alley, which is really just a bunch of shops that sell a variety of vintage clothes and antique collectibles.

Admission to the Marketplace is free, however, admission to the flea market is only $3 per person ($2 on Fridays), and kids under the age of twelve get in for free. Purchase a three-day pass for $5 and get admission all weekend. It’s open 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Mile High Marketplace Flea Market is one fun way to spend a day.

1. True Sake

True Sake is the first ever true sake store in San Francisco and the US. It’s the only place to go to in the US to find the best in sake. Not only does their stock come entirely from Japan, but the owners and employees work hard to maintain its freshness. They even have sake tasting classes and an actual Sake Day (mark your calendars – October 1, 2009!). For the “definitive source” in sake, be sure to drop by True Sake.

560 Hayes St. San Francisco, CA 94102; Tel. (415)355-9555

2. Omnivore Books On Food

Omnivore Books On Food specializes in new and collectible books on everything about food. Every food newbie, enthusiast, expert and connoisseur comes here to stock up on food knowledge. Since opening last fall, Omnivore Books On Food has sponsored several appearances from food authors and experts.

3885A Cesar Chavez St. San Francisco, CA 94131; Tel. (415)282-7385

3. Paulette Macarons

Paulette Macarons opened its second store in San Francisco. Enjoy different types of macarons, from the classics (caramel, carribean chocolate, Madagascar vanilla, lemon, Colombian coffee and coconut, among others) to the seasonal ones (rose and passion fruit). Order online or at the store.

437 Hayes St. San Francisco, CA 94102; Tel. (415)864-2400

4. Far West Fungi

Far West Fungi is the must-go to store for all the mushroom lovers. This family owned business offers several mushroom varieties for your cooking and eating needs. When you visit Far West Fungi, you’ll be amazed at how many types of mushroom actually exists.

1 Ferry Bldg. Shop #34, San Francisco, CA 94111; Tel. (415)989-9090

5. Self Edge

If you’re serious about denim clothes, then give Self Edge a visit. They source out the world’s best and finest denim for their clothes.

714 Valencia St. San Francisco, CA 94110; Tel. (415)558-0658

Be sure to drop by these stores when you’re in San Francisco and find out what they have in store for you.

4. La Brea

Nestled between Beverly Boulevard and West Third Street, La Brea is filled with boutiques with the latest sneakers, indie or vintage looks or whatever product that can be turned into a boutique. Notable shops include American Rag, where you can find new and vintage looks for your wardrobe collection, World Denim Bar for lots and lots of denim choices, Pulp when what you need is a funky card and Illiterature, when you need the most unique gift of all.

5. Third Street

If what you crave is a good shopping walk, then try visiting West Third Street between La Cienega Boulevard and La Brea Avenue. Some must-visit stores include Aero & Co, Zipper, where you never know what unique gift you’ll end up buying, Flight 001 for your luggage and bag needs, and Scout for the best up-and-coming independent designers.

6. Montana Avenue

People from the industry visit this small retail haven located in Santa Monica. Check out Hemisphere and their collection California Monterey furniture fused with Chinese, Tibetan and other furniture collections from the far east, Kovan for the non-traditional jewelries Norman Covan is famous for, and Subtle Tones for all the loungewear you’ll need.

7. Santee Alley

If you want to do your shopping all in one places at great prices and on the streets of Los Angeles, be sure to drop by Santee Alley. Hunt for bargain prices at this shopper’s gem of a paradise. Be sure to drop by on the first Friday of every month when they have sample sales.

So, feel like contributing to California’s economy boost? Be sure to visit these districts for the best deals and quality.

Next stop: Seattle, Washington

At the Golden Triangle, you’ll find some of the most expensive stores that exist, and right in the center of it is Rodeo Drive. Rodeo Drive is a three-block line of shops designed to make you drool and lust over the product, especially if you can’t afford it. If you’re gonna pay a visit to Rodeo Drive, be sure to bring lots of cash or increase your credit limit.

Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA; Tel. (310)271-8174

2. Robertson Boulevard

If you want to shop, grab lunch or some coffee and spot a celebrity, then be sure to drop by Robertson Boulevard in Los Angeles. Celebrities tend to gather at this spot, despite all the paparazzi, due to the proliferation of unique stores that they frequent, including Kitson Boutique, Agnes B, Curve and Lisa Kline. After having your fill of celebrities, fill your appetite with lunch at The Ivy, also located on Robertson Boulevard.

3. Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue is home to kitschy, off-beat and unique stores in Los Angeles. You won’t find a lot of designer labels here, although a lot of TV program costume designers shop here for the stars. Most kinds of shops can be found here, as well as upcoming designers’ shops. Some locals prefer to drive from store to store along Melrose Avenue. But if you’re able and willing, stroll along this stretch and be able to check out all the stores that catch your eye. Hold on to your wallets, though, and don’t buy everything you find cute.

There’s more where this came from! Tune in next time to find other Los Angelese shopping districts.

1. Doe

Doe is a local indie boutique, art gallery and design house. This family-operated boutique specializes in women’s clothes and accessories, especially those produced by designers from the West Coast (in particular the Bay Area). But they also carry a lot of other items, including baby stuff, houseware, bath products and papergoods. As an art gallery, they also feature art shows as well as collaborations with other artists.

629A Haight St. San Francisco, CA 94117; Tel. (415)558-8588

2. Just Awesome! The Board Game Store

A store selling boardgames. You don’t see a lot of these shops. They have a good selection, broken down into easy categories. They have Open Box, where you can test drive a board game before buying it. They also have regular board game nights. It’s a store for any board game lover.

816 Diamond St. San Francisco, CA 94114; Tel. (415)970-1484

3. Under One Roof

Under One Roof is the first and only non-profit retail store in San Francisco. Its mission is to generate funds to support HIV/AIDS education. They sell different items, including books and glassware. Show your support for HIV/AIDS education by buying their items at their store or online.

518A Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114; Tel. (415)503-2300

4. Double Punch

Double Punch is for the adult who loves and collects toys. Located at the North Beach district, near Washington Square, Double Punch features and sells collectible items from Japan, limited designer toys and other items from designers all over the world. They also have a gallery where they feature works from local artists.

1821 Powell St. San Francisco, CA 94133; Tel. (415)399-9785

5. Lola of North Beach

Need some stationery? Journals? How about some thank you notes or photo albums? Then drop by Lola of North Beach. All their items reflect and celebrate family and friends.

1415 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133; Tel. (415)781-1817
Ghirardelli Square, Main Level, 900 North Point St. E206, San Francisco, CA 94109; Tel.(415)567-7760

So, do you think you might wanna try these stores?

With summer comes plenty of fun in the sun, and hopefully (if you’re lucky) plenty of free time to shop!

Lots of people hit the road (or sky) for a quick vacation getaway, and one of the most famous places to go for a trip away from home is Orlando, Florida- the location of Walt Disney Studios.

But what most folks don’t know is that Walt Disney World also has one of the best places in the world for shopping and nightlife: Downtown Disney.

Downtown Disney is a huge shopping area about a mile or two away from the actual theme parks. The downtown area includes all types of stores, such as Disney memorabilia shops, candy shops, sports stores, a Lego store, and even a few electronic stores. Of course, there are many, many more, and the best way to find out just what downtown has to offe, is to stop by for a visit!

The fun doesn’t just stop there however. Downtown Disney also has one of the best adult nightlife spots in the city: Pleasure Island. It derives its roots from the good ol’ Pinocchio movie where the kids run off to a wild and crazy island of the same name. Some of the best clubs around are located within Pleasure Island, such as Mannequins, Orlando House of Blues, Adventurer’s Club, Comedy Warehouse, 8 Traxx, Motion, and BET Sound Stage.

Good shopping time, or partying, often works up an appetite which is why Downtown Disney also has some of the best places to stop for a bite to eat along the way. Downtown Disney also includes some fun attractions for the family, like Cirque Du Soleil, Disney Quest (a virtual reality Disney theme park), plenty of kiddie rides scattered here and there and even a restaurant called T-Rex Cafe which includes life-like dinosaurs everywhere in the same fashion as Rainforest Cafe.

As mentioned above, there are plenty of ways to spend some money at Downtown Disney, and for those who take the time to visit it can provide one of the most unique shopping experiences around. Take my word for it, this article will not do the atmosphere justice. If you ever visit Disney with the kids, or even just solo, don’t forget to stop by Downtown Disney. You won’t regret it.

7. Mission Street

If you’re looking for unconventional and out-of-the-ordinary things to buy, then the Mission District is the perfect place for you. Be sure to drop by Valencia Street and 16th Street. Looking for a hat, try Ads Hats on Valencia (between 18th and 19th Streets) where the entire store has walls and walls of hats, from berets to fedoras to page boys. And the best thing about the store, one-third of the hats they sell are from local designers.

Looking for clothes by local designers? Try Minnie Wilde or Saffron Rare Threads. Minnie Wilde (266 21st Street, between Valencia and Mission Streets) features cute, fun and flirty clothes from Hayes Valley designers, while Saffron Rare Threads (3579 17th Street) creates all-around professional clothes featuring the designs of San Francisco locals, Priya Saraswati and Yugala Priti.

8. Polk Street

Shopping on Polk Street can be an experience all in itself. You’ll find everything here, from high-end to low-end. Looking for clothes for men and women? Drop by Catseto or Fashion Exchange. Looking for lingerie items, try Lusciouswear or Belle Cose. Do you love clothes and shoes from the 50s to the 80s? Then be sure to drop by Mascara Vintage. After some heavy shopping on Polk Street, be sure to drop by Bob’s Donut Shop at the end of the day and treat yourself to some wonderful and cheap dessert.

9. Sacramento Street

Sacramento Street is full of high-end shops so be careful coming here for some shopping adventures, but they do have some of the best items money can buy. Drop by Brown Eyed Girl to find colorful women’s clothing and accessories. If you’re looking for classier designer clothes, then maybe Susan is the shop for you. And if you’re looking for unique home décor and furnishings, be sure to drop by Sue Fisher King.

So what do you think? Are you prepared to burn your money in San Francisco? Be careful boosting the economy, though. It might create more problems for you if you don’t watch yourself.

4. Union Square

A lot of the tourists know this area because Union Square is right in the middle of downtown San Francisco. All the designer labels are here. All the major department stores are here. Even the small concept stores are here. One of the great things about Union Square shopping is the easy access on foot. You can find anything and almost everything here. Looking for books, try Borders. In the mood to see paintings and other art pieces, try visiting one of the many art galleries scattered all over this area. Needing some signature pieces? Try one of the high-end department stores, Neiman-Marcus or Saks Fifth. And after all that heavy shopping, drop off your stuff at one of the numerous hotels located in this area, including Westin St. Francis and Grand Hyatt. Or grab a bite or a cup of coffee at the famous restaurants near Union Square, like Bangkok Noodles, Morton’s, and Sears Fine Food.

5. Haight Street

From high-end shopping to eccentric stores, we move  from Union Square to Haight Street. Haight Street is not for the weak-hearted. Walking along the main road of Haight,  you’ll pass by smoke shops, tattoo parlors, costume shops, shoe stores and vintage clothing boutiques. Unforgettable shops include Positively Haight Street and Piedmont Boutique. Careful though. A lot of shops sell unique and rare products, which means you’re paying for one-of-a-kind items with one-of-a-kind prices, if you know what I mean.

6. Hayes Valley

The construction of the Hayes Valley shopping district happened by accident. In 1989, the Central Freeway entrance ramps on Franklin and Gough Streets collapsed because of the great earthquake. But instead of fixing the ramp, the district decided to demolish it entirely and built a new commerce site on Hayes Valley where foot traffic can live again. Elegant, modern home accessory stores exist along with fine Italian shoe stores, pet stores, vintage clothing boutiques and bookstores on the streets of Hayes Valley.

There will be more San Francisco shopping districts coming soon!

1. Chestnut Street

There are a lot of shops to be found along Chestnut Street. There’s Bare Ecsentuals, City Optix, Bluebird Gifts, Williams Sonoma, Chadwick’s of London and Kimmel’s Stationary. There’s always something here for everyone. Looking for jewelry? Drop by Deleuse Jewelers. How about something to make you more beautiful? Try The Body Shop. Or maybe you want something for your camera? Try Fireside Camera. And, at the end of the day, unwind at one of the numerous cafes and restaurants in the area.

2. Chinatown

Ahh, Chinatown. Known for its decorative and unique buildings and the famous Dragon’s Gate, which signals your entrance into Chinatown. Located between Union Square and North Beach, it’s the perfect place to get cheap souvenirs and gifts for your family, friends and, sometimes, colleagues. Be careful when buying cheap gifts, though. Some of them may be cute but totally useless. So, make good choices and be sure to shop around first. Don’t buy at the first store you go into because you’ll definitely find the same thing in another store with a lower price.

3. Fillmore Street

With over nine blocks filled with shops, cafes and restaurants, it’s easy to get lost and stay on Fillmore Street. From art galleries to antique shops to clothing stores to book shops, there is a shop for everyone
here. Looking for make-up? Drop by MAC, Kiehl’s or Neja Cosmetics. Looking for furniture? Try Kuraya and Shabby Chic. Visit Paper Source or Papyrus for your paper and stationery needs. Whatever you need, you’re bound to find a store you’ll like.

There are more shoppers’ streets to explore in San Francisco, so watch out for that!

Be careful when shopping in San Francisco, it may be inexpensive at first, but it will add up. And, as much as it pains me to say it, remember the 9.5% sales tax in San Francisco.

What does it actually cost? The Euro is currently worth 1.4 times more than the dollar, so a price in Euros can make something look cheaper than it really is. To estimate roughly how many dollars something was worth, I simply would think of it as adding a little bit less than half of the price to its price in Euros.

Can I find it somewhere else? On the grand streets, with splendid lights and tons of happy people, buying an item can be extremely tempting, but more often than not, the same item can be purchased for half the price two streets away. (This is very common with food.) Maybe you could buy the same item near your own home, for much cheaper. Does the fact that it’s coming from a different country really make it worth the extra cost?

What is it really worth? You should expect hand-woven hats or scarves to cost more than their mass-produced counterparts. It is wise to be wary of items that you see more than once in different shops; they probably are not worth it.

And perhaps the most important question:

Will it fit in my suitcase?

I present to you, the top ten malls according to HotelsByCity:

#10. A huge mall, the King of Prussia Mall in Pennsylvania has a Macy’s on each end of the mall and over 400 stores in its directory. A great place to check out dining room tables.

#9. The Galleria Dallas in North Dallas, Texas offers shopping and an ice rink!

#8. In Honolulu, Hawaii, one can find the Ala Moana Center. As the largest open air shopping center in the world, over 50 million tourists visit every year.

#7. In Sunrise, Florida, the Sawgrass Mills mall is a great place to go for amazing deals. This outlet mall has over 300 stores in it!

#6. One of the most profitable malls in the USA is the South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, California. This does tend to be an expensive mall.

#5. The Fashion Show Mall in Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its…fashion shows! It is over 2 million square feet big!

#4. Macy’s in New York City, NY, is a shopper’s dream come true. There are over 10 floors for you to explore!

#3. In Beverly Hills, California, Rodeo Drive is the place where the rich and famous buy, while the rest of us window shop.

#2. Arizona Mills in Tempe, Arizona, includes all of your typical stores such as Bath and Body Works, and it is also home to a Rainforest Cafe, a movie theatre, Gameworks, etc.  You could find some great taps here!
#1. This mall probably comes as no surprise. The Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, is filled with roller coasters and other “things” such as an aquarium. There are 14 available screens for watching movies, you can get married, and more. Going shopping is also an option.

Shoppers, start crossing these off of your lists!

Santa Cruz’s downtown was beautiful. With a wide assortment of unique shops and boutiques, there was plenty of shopping to be had. From bathroom accessories to clothing to books to kitchenwares to contemporary beds, I found many stores to peruse. Fortunately for my credit card, anything I bought needed to fit in my suitcase, so there was more window shopping than purchasing.

In addition to the variety of shops, there were other places of interest. The downtown boasts of great restaurants and cafes. For entertainment, there are theatres, lounges, clubs with music and dancing, and much more. As I was in the downtown in the morning, I only got to sample a coffee and scones. However, both of these were delicious!

Of course, there is another benefit to the Santa Cruz downtown – the great weather! Being a New Englander, it was quite a treat to be able to walk outside without a coat and enjoy the feel on sunshine on my face in the month of February.

If you are going to be in the Santa Cruz area, the downtown association has an excellent Website that has all of the information you need to plan a trip. Find out what stores they have, what special event is scheduled, or simply how to get there.