Venere Travel Blog» markets

Top Local Food Markets in Portugal

Anita Choudhary — Sat, 07 Jul 2012 16:00:03 +0000

Sharing the western side of the Iberian Peninsula with Spain is Portugal. Although it is somewhat culturally and geographically isolated from Spain, Portugal features beautiful countryside, lively cities, and a rich, unique culture. The dictatorship-based government ended in 1974 and was followed by the advent of Democracy. Finally, Portugal joined the European Union in 1986. As a result, the country has evolved from one Western Europe’s poorest countries into one of ever-increasing prosperity.

Barcelona Second Hand Shopping Tips

Anita Choudhary — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 16:00:00 +0000

If you’re planning a vacation to Barcelona and finding some great shopping deals while your there, you’ll want to consider checking out any of the abundant second hand venues in the city. Barcelona is renowned for its architecture, cuisine, culture, and history. However, it is also a popular destination for international travelers who love to shop while vacationing. The following are some Barcelona second hand shopping tips that you should consider.

Istanbul’s Best Street Markets

Anita Choudhary — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 17:00:13 +0000

As well as being the most populous city in Turkey, Istanbul is also known as the country’s cultural and financial center. It is referred to as the bridge between the Asian and European continents as it is situated on both sides of Bosphorus Strait which links the Black Sea with the Marmara Sea. In 2010, Istanbul was listed as one of the three cultural capitals of Europe. The city is also the home of some excellent shopping opportunities. Listed below are some of Istanbul’s best street markets to explore when visiting the city.

The Street Markets of Chinatown in Singapore

Anita Choudhary — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:00:20 +0000

Singapore has always been one of the more popular business or vacation destinations in Southeast Asia. For the individual that focuses on shopping, there is no better location in this region of the world than this particular area, especially when it comes to the numerous street markets that are so popular with locals and tourists alike in Chinatown. From seeking authentic souvenirs, gifts and local art and crafts products, the street markets are colorful, vibrant and interesting for the millions of tourists that visit the mesmerizing city of Singapore.

Amazing Souks (markets) in Dubai

Abha — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:00:05 +0000

Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make-up the UAE (United Arab Emirates) is known for its amazing markets and gold shopping destinations. Economically, the region has grown exponentially in the past decade to become the most innovative, modern, and progressive emirate of the seven. Having developed at an unbelievable rate of growth, especially in the tourism and trade sectors, it is more like an independent city-state. The primary allure for international travelers and tourists visiting Dubai is the shopping that is available as the region is synonymous with retail shopping.

Best Shopping Malls and Street Markets in Hanoi

Anita Choudhary — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 17:00:50 +0000

The capital and second largest city in Vietnam is Hanoi. It features a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western cultures with a great deal of Chinese influence from the centuries that Vietnam was dominated by China. It still features architecture from the 1970’s and 1980’s as well as French designed structures from its colonial past. With the vast modernization and urbanization that the city has been undergoing, it is now one of the most targeted shopping destination in the tourist industry.

Street Markets and Budget Shopping in Dublin

Anita Choudhary — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 16:00:28 +0000

Dublin is Ireland’s capital city and is known as the "Town of the Hurdled Ford" amongst the locals. It is revered as being one of the most vibrant tourist destinations in the British Isles. This is a large city with the population of the greater Dublin area approaching the 2 million mark meaning that roughly 25% of the Irish Republic’s population resides in this area. One of the best reasons to vacation in the city along with the numerous pubs and restaurants is the numerous opportunities for shopping, especially if you are on a budget.

Top 5 Tips when visiting Brussels

Anita Choudhary — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:00:33 +0000

For those of you who have never visited Brussels, Belgium, before and are planning a vacation there in the near future, you are definitely in for a number of treats to take advantage of when you are visiting the city. For one of the largest cities in Western Europe, Brussels will surprise you with all of its hidden “treasures” as there are tons to see and do when visiting. And don’t forget about the cuisine and shopping opportunities which are two of the primary reasons that so many people visit the city.

Top 5 Things to Do in Tokyo

Anita Choudhary — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 16:00:07 +0000

The capital of Japan and the country’s largest city (12 million plus) is Tokyo and is one of the world’s most modern cities. The city offers something for every type of international traveler. So no matter what your preference is, you are likely to find just about whatever venue you are looking for to satisfy your tastes. Whether you’re a backpacker, a family man, honeymooning, a retired couple, or just an obsessive shopper, you could be looking at your dream vacation in the city. Here are the top 5 things to do in Tokyo.

How to Shop in Hong Kong

matteo — Tue, 10 May 2011 16:00:18 +0000

Hong Kong, China, as one of the great cities of Asia and even the world, is a fantastic place for visitors to shop and find exotic goods that they wouldn’t be able to find at home. This is a brief guide to what’s on offer, how to buy it and then you can figure out for yourself how to get it all home!

Flea Markets in Cairo, Egypt

Anita Choudhary — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 16:11:49 +0000

With its population of over 16 million people, the city of Cairo is one of Africa’s and the Middle East’s largest cities. It is located on the Nile River; and despite being rich in historical significance, it is now home to a very modern society. As one would imagine, the city of Cairo has plenty of attractions and things to do; from the Egyptian Museum, in the heart of the city, to the Giza Pyramids and the Saqqara Pyramid Complex. However, many tourists visit Cairo for shopping purposes.

Street Markets in Marrakech

Will Joce — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 17:00:52 +0000

One of the joys of Marrakech is soaking up the atmosphere of the Souks, the markets and bazaars that spring up across the city where almost anything can be bought or bargained for. Always remember that haggling is expected and almost required and that if you are a foreigner you will end up paying higher prices than the locals, but try not to let obsessive bargain hunting get in the way of your enjoyment.

The main street market in Marrakeck is Souk located next to the Place Djemaa El-Fna. This is the largest, most diverse but also the most aggressive of Marrakech’s street markets. It is a great place to start your Moroccan shopping experience and get a feel for what’s on offer and at what prices.

Street Markets in Milan

Allan Dumayas — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 17:00:41 +0000

As a traveler, I make it to a point to look and shop around if ever I find myself in a foreign place. I’m the sort of tourist who loves going around places while immersing myself to the new experience. I would walk around town as if I’m a local, if possible meet new people, and buy something significant which would best describe the new place I’m at.

One of my dream destinations is Milan in Italy. And what’s in Milan if you might ask? Not only is it the second largest city in the whole of Europe, nor is it the fashion capital of the world; Milan has a warm and accommodating atmosphere which can be experienced on the city’s rows upon rows of street markets which caters almost everything! From antique souvenirs, designer clothes, and fresh produce, the street markets in Milan will surely never fail to surprise even the most experienced shoppers. Want to know more what’s in store for you at Milan’s street markets? Read on!

1 Day in Florence

Auria Bohn — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 17:00:09 +0000

So you’ve checked Florence’s major sites off the list: David, the Uffizi gallery, Piazza della Signoria and the Ponte Vecchio to name a few. Now what?

Photo: Getty Images, Corbis

Florence’s historic, cultural and artistic treasures are undeniably many of the world’s best. But that’s not the only thing the city has to offer. And 24 hours are all you need to discover how to live it up like a true Florentine!

London Markets for Shopaholics

Abha — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 15:40:25 +0000

No holiday is complete without shopping, but some people travel just to shop. London, featuring over 300 markets, is one of the top ten shopping destinations in the world. The city prides itself on its boutiques, designer labels, high street chain stores, street markets and well-known department stores- Fortnum & Mason and Harrods.