If you’re a person who loves the thrill of the hunt, especially when it comes to finding vintage treasures, a flea market in another country will be that much more exciting. Distinctive jewelry, historical finds and things that carry a certain je ne sais quoi await.
But unlike shopping a flea market in the United States, a foreign flea market carries with it a unique set of rules and nuances. Before you jet off to flea-market fun, read these helpful tips and tricks.
Before visiting, check the country’s regulations regarding going home with vintage pieces. Some countries forbid travelers to leave with items that may or may not have historical significance. For example, French customs has been known to require receipts for all antique items. Visit your destination’s official Customs website for information. If all else fails, you can always ship your items home.
If you are traveling to a non-English speaking country, it will be beneficial to learn a few basic words to use at the flea market ahead of time. Not only is it polite, but it will also help you understand the amount you will be paying. Phrases such as, “How much is this?” “Can I have a receipt?” and, of course, “Thank you” will prove helpful.
Are you a collector or someone who enjoys locating rare finds? Do some research before your trip and find out which items are sought-after in the particular country you’ll be visiting.
Leave extra room in your carry-on for your vintage goodies. During your trip, hold on to plastic bags and tissue paper so you can carefully pack delicate items. A sweater or scarf is good for wrapping up items, too. With that being said, try to only purchase small items. But if you just can’t part with that chair or piece of artwork, it can certainly be shipped to your home.
And lastly, there are books out there that can help you even further in your flea market adventures. The Secondhand & Vintage line of travel books are especially good, and include, for example, London
Read This Next
How to Haggle in Marrakesh, Morocco
Destination
Aug 20, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Dec 20, 2024Celebrate the New Year at New York Marriott Marquis
The holidays are the best time in New York City, between the giant Christmas tree and the exciting countdown to the new year in Times Square. This year, New York Marriott Marquis offers guests a quintessential Times Square New Year’s Eve experience in the heart of the action but with all the comforts of staying in your hotel room. As the country counts down from 10, guests at Marquis will have the best view of the world-renowned NYE Ball Drop, making it the best destination to ring in the new year in style.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Most Affordable U.S. Destination Wedding Spots Revealed
Destination weddings, on average, cost more than hometown weddings, but if you have your heart set on jet-setting for your big day, it can help to know where you can spend the least on those nuptials.
Hotel
Dec 19, 20244 Hotels to Stay at for 2025 Sporting Events
Diehard sports fans often travel near and far to watch their favorite teams. With plenty of exciting sporting events taking place in 2025, these hotels offer a respite for sports fanatics after the events.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Dec 19, 2024Postcard Cabins Brand Now Part of Marriott
More than 1,200 glamping cabins recently joined Marriott in an acquisition set to bring more travelers closer to nature. Postcard Cabins, formerly Getaway, was founded in 2015 with the mission to bring free time in nature to more people.
ShareThis