Travel Shopping

54. Try to "shop" where the locals go.

Ask where the marketplace is and buy food and other items there. Visit the tourist sites... but avoid purchasing souvenirs there.

Walk a little way down the road... away from the center, away from the tourist traps, often prices are in relation to proximity. The further away, the cheaper it is.

55. A good piece of advice around dealing with vacation shopping, declarations, receipts and customs officials:

Having it all in one-place speeds up the process. If shopping is part of your travel endeavor and enjoyment on your trip, pack a flat fabric bag in the bottom of your suitcase.

When returning from your trip place all the purchased items in this bag. Everything is accessible and saves you time and money! If not, at the very least, you have made one official’s life a little easier today and your reward will be a smile, stamp and a nod!

56. Budget for inexpensive but thoughtful regional gifts for friends at home or newly made friends abroad alike.

Packaged flower seeds are a good option