Book it: Four hotel restaurants for a gastronomic getaway in Europe

• The best hotels in Bordeaux

Borgo Egnazia, Puglia Best for... local food lovers

The low-down: Rome and Venice may be Italy's enduring tourist cities, but nestled in its 'boot' is Fasano, part of the Puglian south that shows the country's softer side. It is there you'll find Borgo Egnazia, a hotel-cum-village that at its summer peak plays host to some 550 guests (not to mention 500 staff), set against rows of olive trees and fennel plants. Offering rooms and villas sleeping up to seven, and with the majority of its food, wine, staff and even building materials coming from the region, this celebration of Puglian tradition shows that Italy's attractions aren't just confined to the north.

Out and about: Drive (or be driven) around Puglia's hillsides in Maseratis, Lancias and other classic Italian cars courtesy of Puglia Auto Classica. The seafood or meat set menus at Osteria del Tempo Perso, a 16th-century cave featuring the best of local specialities, such as orechiette pasta and creamy burrata, are well worth a try. Top it off with a passeggiata around the cobbled streets of Ostuni's old town afterwards.

Source: Book it: Four hotel restaurants for a gastronomic getaway in Europe

The top 10 European destinations where you can find cheap flights during October half term

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc (Image: Hero Images) The summer holidays are well and truly behind us, but the next set of school holidays will be here faster than you think!

The October half term is just a few weeks away, and if you've been considering a mini break abroad, now is the time to start planning.

You could snap up a brilliant travel bargain - and in fact, new research from Skyscanner has revealed that a whole host of European hotspots are already proving significantly cheaper for the half term dates compared to last year.

Research from the flights booking website also revealed that 24% of half term flights are booked in September - so take action and you could beat the crowds and bag the best deals.

We take a look at the top 10 destinations revealed by Skyscanner to offer the best value flight fares for October half term - and why they should be on your radar right now...

1. Prague

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: Gallo Images Flights to Prague are averaging at about £93.63 based on a variety of UK departures, making it the destination with the biggest price drop thanks to a 20% difference compared to last year.

The best part is that once you've arrived, you won't need to splash the cash, with the Czech capital also being revealed as the best-value city for culture , whether you're looking to take a picturesque stroll along the Charles Bridge, or go exploring inside Prague Castle. 

TOP DEAL: Return flights for £70 per person, departing London Stansted on 23rd October, returning on 27th October.

2. Reykjavik

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: Getty Images Europe If you've always wanted to go exploring in the Icelandic capital, now's the perfect opportunity! Seat prices have dropped by 15% with an average fare of £202.65 - but you can get even cheaper if you book before the crowds.

Reykjavik is sure to make for a city break unlike any other thanks to the wide array of museums, sights and surrounding natural landscapes that are just waiting to be explored.

TOP DEAL: Return flights £162 per person departing London Gatwick on 21st October, returning on 25th October. You can book the deal here .

3. Faro

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: EyeEm Like Reykjavik, Faro has seen a price drop of 15% across flight rates, with an average of around £177.58.

By October the temperatures have considerably cooled down compared to the summer (unsurprisingly), but they're still at a comfortable average of 23C in the daytime.

They're ideal conditions for exploring - and Faro is far more than just sandy beaches, from its wide range of museums to bustling food markets.

TOP DEAL: Return flight £166 per person, departing Manchester on 23rd October, returning on 29th October.

4. Alicante

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: LightRocket This October half term, prices to Alicante have dropped by 13% to an average flight price of £157.71.

The only hiccup with travelling during this time is that the weather can be quite volatile - although temperatures remain relatively warm, it can sometimes rain.

So if you are feeling tempted, then it's worth having a few back-up indoor activities planned just in case - but luckily there are plenty of museums and malls to explore too!

TOP DEAL: Return flight £133 per person, departing London Stansted on 23rd October, returning on 27th October.

5. Rome

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: Photolibrary RM Rome never fails to draw in crowds of tourists from all over the world whatever the time of year, but surprisingly the Italian capital is working out cheaper compared to last year with a price drop of 8% and an average of £144.02.

Before you travel, check out our Rome city guide ; it has everything from the best cheap hotels, top restaurants and all the main sights you won't want to miss.

TOP DEAL: Return flight £113 per person, departing London Gatwick on 21st October, returning on 25th October to London Stansted.

6. Malaga

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: Moment RF During the summer flights to Malaga can leave you blowing your budget, but come October the prices have dropped - and this year they've lowered by a further 8% to an average of £164.85.

With average daily temperatures of 24C it's still warm enough to make the most of the picturesque outdoors, but if you do get caught on a slightly chillier day, use it as an excuse to check out Malaga's local restaurants, or explore the quirky museums and cinemas.

TOP DEAL: Return flight £114 per person, departing London Stansted on 23rd October, returning on 27th October.

7. Barcelona

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: Lonely Planet Images Barcelona remains a firm favourite for tourists no matter what the season, but it's worth making the trip in October after the destination's faced an 8% flight price drop to an average of £122.05.

In the summer Barcelona boasts hot temperatures, but when you're trying to explore the city they can be somewhat overwhelming.

However in October the temperatures become far more bearable, and make ideal conditions for seeing the best of what Barcelona has to offer, from the Sagrada Familia to Park Guell.

TOP DEAL: Return flight £70 per person, departing London Stansted on 23rd October, returning on 27th October. 

8. Tenerife

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: Lonely Planet Images Flight prices to Tenerife have dropped by 6% for an average total of £346.67 - and with temperatures staying around 25C you could bag a sunshine break without the sky-high summer prices.

There's so much to see and do with the kids, it's sure to be a brilliant family getaway - check out some of our favourite activities here .

TOP DEAL: Return flight £263 per person, departing London Gatwick on 24th October, returning on 29th October.

9. Milan

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Credits: E+ Milan flight prices may only have dropped by 5%, but they still average a very budget-friendly price of £78.48.

Meanwhile, the city is easy to enjoy no matter what the weather. In fact, highlights include the Duomo, museums, art galleries and of course the shopping - all of which can be enjoyed indoors.

Make sure to bookmark our Milan city guide where you'll find everything from the best cheap hotels to the restaurants you need to try and sights you won't want to miss.

TOP DEAL: Return flight £62 per person, departing London Gatwick on 21st October, returning on 28th October.

10. Palma

© Provided by Trinity Mirror Plc Flight prices to Palma have dropped by 2%, leading to an average of £169.46.

However, if you're heading to Majorca in October, then you should be prepared for some bouts of rain. Luckily, with a wide array of restaurants, aquariums, museums, bowling alleys and cinemas, you won't be stuck for things to do!

TOP DEAL: Return flight £109 per person, departing Liverpool on 23rd October, returning on 28th October. 

Related: The World's Most Popular Travel Destinations (provided by Wochit News)

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Source: The top 10 European destinations where you can find cheap flights during October half term

Vodafone launches unlimited international roaming plan across UK, Europe

NEW DELHI: Telecom service provider Vodafone India today unveiled the first-time-ever, worry free, unlimited International Roaming proposition for travelers to Europe with its international roaming pack, Vodafone i-RoamFREE.

Whether it is a business trip, or a leisure holiday, international travelers can now easily activate a pack and use their number overseas from UK and other popular travel destinations of Europe like Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Turkey, Greece, Portugal, Czech Republic, Romania, Hungary, Malta, &Albania.

Apart from Europe, travelers can also use unlimited calling and Data in USA, UAE, Singapore& Malaysia with the same pack taking the total tally of "Unlimited" Countries to 18. The pack is available at multiple affordable price points ranging from Rs 5000 for 28 days (which is effectively Rs 180 per day) to Rs. 500 for every 24 Hours usage. Prepaid and postpaid consumers can activate the pack through My Vodafone App or on the website www.vodafone.in/ir

Avneesh Khosla, Associate Director – Consumer Business, Vodafone India, said, "We launched our flagship unlimited international roaming proposition for USA, Singapore and UAE in April, and are now very excited to extend it to these additional destinations. Europe, USA, UAE, Singapore & Malaysia comprise more than 50% of our total roamers and international traffic. With calls and data becoming completely free in these countries, we are eliminating the hassle of carrying local SIM cards or looking out for public WiFi during overseas travel. Customers can freely upload photos & videos, look up places on maps, check emails and stay connected back home using their Vodafone number without worrying about high international roaming bills. They can remain confidently connected on their existing Vodafone number when they travel, and be assured the best of voice and data services."

Apart from offering unlimited usage in 18 countries, the same pack also allows consumers to use their phones freely across 42 other countries. Vodafone has recently added new countries like Japan, Qatar, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Egypt and more to this pack. In all these countries, subscribers can receive incoming calls for free, make any call for Re. 1/min and browse data at Re. 1/MB only.

Source: Vodafone launches unlimited international roaming plan across UK, Europe

15 Best Places to Travel in October in Europe, Asia and Tropical Destinations

Choosing the right destination for your vacation is the crucial part of having a nice time and this list of 15 best places to travel in October in Europe, Asia and tropical destinations can help you choose it. Since I love to travel, for me there is no bad time for traveling. Anywhere and anytime is perfect, as long as I'm on the road. If you add to that some good travel buddy, wherever you go, chances of having a great vacation are pretty high. Depending on your desires, best places to travel in October in the world will vary as well.

October is not the most popular month for vacations and traveling. The school year already began and families with children (usually) cannot travel but those who do not have kids (or who decide to bring the kids for the roadtrip despite that fact that school began) might have a perfect vacation in October. Why? Well, the weather is much milder during the summer and the prices are considerably lower for accommodation as well as everything else. If you are a bit of an introvert like I am, less crowded beaches and streets of best holiday destinations might suit you better. On the other hand, if you prefer traveling within the U.S., our list of 10 best places to visit in the USA in October will definitely inspire you to choose were to go next.

TCHAIJIT / shutterstock.com

For those who wish to travel abroad, this list will serve as a perfect guide. We will discuss best places to visit in October in Europe since October is one of the best months to visit Europe.  The weather is perfect, especially in southern Europe, and there are many food and drink festivals. Days are usually warm but in the evenings can be a little chilly. The only downside of visiting Europe in October is the increased chance of rain. Still, you can solve this with packing an umbrella with you. For those who prefer tropical beaches, we will include best tropical places to travel to in October. For all the beach lovers, tropical places on our list will also give you a glimpse into the best beaches to visit in October. Don't worry, temperatures are perfect for swimming and sunbathing and you might even find some secluded beach and enjoy your vacation. Since Caribbean islands are among the favorite destinations, I made sure to include one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in October. You can check our list of Top 8 Best Beaches in the World while you are packing your bags. Having traveled to South Asian countries myself, I have to tell you that you will have the time of your life if you make this choice. In order to help you find your destination, I singled out best places to visit in Southeastern Asia in October.

In order to compile this list of 15 best places to travel in October in Europe, Asia and tropical destinations, I check a number of travel sites including: Fodor's Travel, Trips to Discover, Weather, Travel and Leasure, and Quora. Recommendations for best places to travel in October 2017 are abundant and I decided to single out the ones with the best climate (often most frequently recommended ones) and to choose a couple of suggestions for Europe, Asia and tropical destinations to provide a variety of choices, regardless of where you want to travel. Locations are ranked according to number of activities and festivals you can attend while being there. Tropical places are at the bottom because they only include sea-related activities and places with organized events and festivals are at the top of our list.

Source: 15 Best Places to Travel in October in Europe, Asia and Tropical Destinations

Ireland is 'top destination' on new Lonely Planet list

We may moan about the weather and the damp but Ireland is getting a lot of positive tourism-press these days. The latest highlights our 'wild' side in the new Lonely Planet's Atlas of Adventure.

The focus is on our relatively new love of adventure racing and endurance sports, and the travel guide says that Ireland is a "…top destination for coastal adventures, testing endurance events and multi-day walks".

Reason for our new found love of tough sporting challenges? I would have said it that we're of brave stock and like a challenge but this is the Lonely Planet's angle: "It's been suggested that Ireland's embrace of adventure racing, ultra-running and other punishing outdoor challenges combines a celebration of a mythic warrior past with self-inflicted penance for the excesses of the country's recent boom-and-bust". Ok then.

Check out the video by three-time World Champion, Australian-Irish Mick Fanning, filmed in Ireland.

 

Then, of course, there's the added reward of "end-of-the-day pints and pub music".

"Ireland is defined by the sea. Huge waves, towering cliffs and long beaches attract elite surfers, sea paddlers, climbers, kiters and open-water swimmers."

Surfing in Donegal

The Forty FootThe Forty Foot made headlines a couple of months ago after appearing in the New York times Irish swim spots and it features here too: 

"Ireland has a long tradition and a contemporary enthusiasm for open-water swimming."

Forty Foot makes the cut yet again

 "The Forty Foot on the edge of Dublin Bay is mentioned in James Joyce's Ulysses and still attracts sea swimmers year-round, while each August the capital's Liffey River hosts the world's second-oldest continuously swum open race".

One example, that a lot of people may never even have heard of before now is…"The Race is run across the wilds of Donegal and, to ensure dreadful weather, held in March. 

"The challenge includes a 15km kayak, 166km of cycling, 5km of mountain running and 64km of road and trail-running. All to be completed in 24 hours."

Wild Atlantic WayNo list would be complete without the Wild Atlantic Way getting a mention: "In a country, less than 500km long, the Irish have conjured up the innovative 2,500km Wild Atlantic Way, which follows the coast-hugging roads and boreens of the west coast to string together adventure-activity outfitters, spell-binding seascapes, and welcoming bars". 

Looks like the dogs have life jackets but what about their owners?!

Surfs UpSurfers should be flocking here after all of this praise:  "Ireland has Europe's biggest, best and most varied surf, and with a warm wetsuit you could spend a lifetime exploring its wild, rocky coastline. 

"From Donegal in the north, all the way down the west coast, past Co Cork to Wexford, this indented, swell-battered coastline delivers waves to suit everyone from wild-eyed grommets to charging big-wave riders". "The 'perfect' big wave is Aileen's, a 12m monster off the colossal Cliffs of Moher in Co Clare, named after nearby headland Aill na Searrach by the local surfer John McCarthy who first rode it."

Cliffs of Mohers...surfing for the brave

"You'll be sharing the seas with a safari park of big marine wildlife, including humpback, fin and minke whales, seals and basking sharks".

The Midlands are not left out either: "Don't overlook the interior, where winding rivers, wending trails, wild terrain, wind-whipped peaks and warm pubs combine to offer a thousand welcomes to the wandering adventurer, whether they're exploring on water, wheels or in rugged heels."

Kayaking and CanoeingWe're also listed as offering world-class kayaking and canoeing opportunities: "Ireland's two longest rivers, the broad majestic Shannon and the beautiful Barrow, both invite DIY canoeing and camping adventures."

And it also urged tourists to look beyond the Wild Atlantic Way to the centre of the island."Don't overlook the interior, where winding rivers, wending trails, wild terrain, wind-whipped peaks and warm pubs combine to offer a thousand welcomes to the wandering adventurer, whether they're exploring on water, wheels or in rugged heels."

Climbing, cycling and hiking are included as among the adventure sports on offer, but the country's ultimate challenge is circling the island on a boat.

Happy campers...or kayakers

"The world's 20th largest island presents paddlers with a satisfying circumnavigation challenge of 1,500km.  Tom Daly made the first solo circuit in 1979. Since then more than 50 paddlers have gone around. 

"In 2015, Mick O'Meara set the 238-day record."

I think we need to get back out there folks before the invasion, as welcome 'n' all as it is. 

Source: Ireland is 'top destination' on new Lonely Planet list

5 Best Fall Travel Destinations In Eastern Europe You Have To Visit

While most people prefer to travel during spring or summer, fall globetrotting often means less expenses, fewer crowds and perfect temperatures. Fall period is usually filled with interesting, visit worthy events and season themed outdoors exhibitions. While many international tourists might choose to pay a visit to traditionally popular Western European cities this fall, some Eastern European cities are certainly keeping up and slowly but surely transforming into top notch travel destinations.

Novi Sad, Serbia Danube Park, Novi Sad, Source: www.luftika.rs

As the second largest city in Serbia and one of European Capital of Culture cities for 2021., Novi Sad is without a doubt a cultural hub and a perfect travel destination. Whether you want to visit the fall flower market, enjoy beer festivals or simply go sightseeing on the historical Petrovaradin Fortress, fall is the right season to do it. Beer fans will find October to be the most enjoyable month to pay a visit to Novi Sad, as Oktoberfest Novi Sad and Festival of Craft Beer are both scheduled for October, only 10 days apart.

Festival of Craft Beer, Source: www.nscraftbeer.com

With over 20 types of craft beer, seminars, corner where you can watch professionals brew beer and of course music, Festival of Craft Beer has quickly grown into one of the biggest fall attractions in Novi Sad, both for tourists and locals. Yet, for those who prefer something a bit more simple and conservative than craft beers, perfect event to visit is certainly Oktoberfest in Novi Sad. Not much different than the original Oktoberfest, beautiful women in traditional attire will be serving pretzels, sausages and of course, beer.

Oktoberfest Novi Sad, Source: www.facebook.com

After intense beer fests, the best way to end a fall trip to Novi Sad is definitely with a lengthy visit to the Fall Market in Novi Sad, during the last week of October. With plenty flowers, pottery, fall vegetables and products of old traditional crafts, Fall Market is known for having an outstanding number of visitors.

Fall Market, Source: www.lepotaizdravlje.rs Warsaw, Poland Source: www.kobieta.dziennik.pl

Consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful cities of Eastern and Central Europe, Warsaw has plenty to offer to potential visitors, from its stunning architecture to internationally acclaimed festivals, exhibitions and events. One of such examples is certainly the Warsaw International Film Festival, in its 33rd edition for October 2017. During the festival, members of audience have an opportunity not just to watch the newest films from all over the world, but also to take part is workshops and masterclasses.

Warsaw International Film Festival, Source: www.wff.pl

One of the most exciting attractions in Warsaw during 2017., for tourists and locals alike was certainly 3D Prehistoric Oceanarium. In collaboration with the best paleontologists in the world, 3D designers have reconstructed the submarine world from 350 million years ago. While most scenes are in 3D, some featuring giant sharks are animated in 5D for a shock effect.

Scene of Dunkleosteurus 3D Prehistoric Oceanarium, Source: www.nowawarszawa.pl

After a stroll through scenic Old Town, "Dali VS Warhol- art, music, film" exhibition awaits at The Palace of Culture and Science. While comparing the two artistic geniuses, curators will exhibit more than 100 works of each artist, with some of them being shown to the public for the first time.

Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol, Source; www.lem.fm Moscow, Russia Source: новости-москвы.ru-an.info

While anyone will agree there isn't a bad time to visit Moscow, there is something special about traveling during the picturesque months of September, October and November. Besides the regular points of interest for tourists, such as the Red Square, Kremlin or Gorky Park, during the fall Moscow offers numerous additional attractions. One of the most well known fall events in the open is International festival Circle of Light. During the last week of September, Moscow's most famous buildings such as Bolshoi Theater and Moscow State University are turned into a canvas for digital and visual artists. Using creative projections, lasers, light and fire, artists from all over the world will showcase images, films and animations throughout Moscow.

Projection of Swan Lake on the building of Bolshoi Theater, Source: www.lightfest.ru

For those more fond of games than arts, Moscow will be hosting the annual exhibition festival of computer and video games called Igromir during the last week of September. And since video games and cosplay often go hand in hand, additional event known as Comic Con Russia is scheduled during the same days for a full effect.

Source: www.comicconrussia.com

When it comes to fine arts, September and October are among the best months to visit Moscow, as record number of exhibitions of renowned artists are always held in this period. For the fall 2017., the city of Moscow has prepared over one hundred exhibitions, with a few that stand out. Those certainly worth visiting are "Drawings by Klimt and Schiele from the collection of Albertina Museum" in Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, and "Art Show of El Lissitzky" in Tretyakov Gallery.

Drawings of Egon Shiele, part of the "Drawings by Klimt and Schiele" Exhibition, Source:www.arts-museum.ru Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina Kastel fortress, Banja Luka, Source: www.mapio.net

Second largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina known for its numerous parks and gardens, Banja Luka may not be the most obvious choice for a fall trip, but being unconventional only makes it even more interesting. After paying a visit to the ancient Kastel Fortress built by the Romans in 3rd century and strolling through large city park "Mladen Stojanović", there are many cultural events around the city to choose from. One of the best known events on a national level is the Researcher's Night, a series of free workshops in different areas of science delivered over the course of one night. They are hosted by professionals and students of engineering, chemistry, mathematics and physics for children and young people who want to learn in a creative way or simply see some cool experiments.

Researcher's Night Banja Luka, Source: www.facebook.com

Another major fall event in Banja Luka is BanjalukAnima, an international festival of animated film. While animation industry in Banja Luka has its beginnings in the late 1960's, this festival has been established only ten years ago. Nevertheless, it has hosted some of the most successful animated European films over the past decade, and introduced many acclaimed foreign artists to local audience, including Jerzy Kucia, Cordell Barker and Priit Parn.

Award winning animator and writer Mikhail Aldashin at BanjalukAnima, Source: www.facebook.com

For those who are not particularly interested in science and prefer still images to moving ones, Museum of Modern Arts will be the place to go. One of the most acclaimed living British artists Grayson Perry will be exhibiting his "Vanity of Small Differences" tapestries from 7th September to 20th October. Known for his eccentric art style and alter ego Claire, Perry is considered to be one of the biggest cultural icons of Great Britain and was ranked number 32 on the list of "100 Most Powerful People in British Culture" by The Telegraph.

"Vanity of Small Differences", Grayson Perry, Museum of Modern Arts Banja Luka, Source: www.bunker078.com Bratislava, Slovakia Source: www.pinterest.com

Besides being ranked as the third richest region of European Union by GPD per capita, Bratislava is also one of the most visited capitals in Europe. With its moderate continental climate, it is a perfect choice for fall traveling, as it isn't too cold to walk around the city and go sightseeing. Except for its famed castles and elegant cathedrals, fall in Bratislava also offers a wide variety of cultural activities to enjoy, such as Bratislava Jazz Days festival and International Film Festival.

Roy Hargrove, one of the confirmed performers at Bratislava Jazz Days 2017., Source: http://www.bjd.sk/

Founded in 1975. by Slovak jazz musicians as a small local festival, Bratislava Jazz Days has grown into one of the biggest festivals of modern jazz in the world. The panel of performers has grown each year, with more and more international musicians taking part in the festival. From 20th to 22nd October, 2017., Bratislava Jazz Days will present Ray Hargrove, two time Grammy winning jazz trumpeter as well as Cory Henry, Marcus Miller and many other notable names in the world of modern jazz.

Rade Šerbedžija a ccepting award for Artistic Excellence in World Cinema at Bratislava Film Festival, Source: http://bratislavaiff.sk

Just as the Jazz Days end, another major cultural event in Bratislava starts. Packed with films starring world renowned actors from all over the world, International Film Festival Bratislava has previously honored actors such as Rade Šerbedžija, George Clooney and Charlotte Gainsbourg. This year, audience will be able to choose between almost one hundred films that will be shown during the festival.

Source: 5 Best Fall Travel Destinations In Eastern Europe You Have To Visit

Rick Steves: Tips for shopping in Europe

Rick Steves Published 8:00 a.m. ET Sept. 9, 2017

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European department stores (such as Galeries Lafayette in Paris) can be glamorous platforms for top fashion and people-watching.(Photo: Steve Smith)

 

With each trip I take, I look for cultural souvenirs — experiences and memories are the gold nuggets of travel. Shopping is never my priority, but when I do bring mementos home I find the best souvenirs come from local entrepreneurs and craftspeople. These days, Europe's modern shopping arenas are also fun spots to witness a slice of contemporary life. In moderation, it can be fun to immerse yourself in the retail culture of Europe's grandest cities.

Here are some suggestions for smart shopping, where you can focus on experiencing culture rather than collecting things:

Outdoor markets

The most colorful shopping in Europe — and a fun way to feel the local vibe — is at its lively open-air markets. A stroll along Portobello Road, one of London's many lively street markets, has you rubbing elbows with people who brake for garage sales. In Florence, the sprawling San Lorenzo Market has stalls of garments, accessories and leather jackets ranging from real to vinyl. Even a place as overrun with visitors as Istanbul's Grand Bazaar has tourist-free nooks and crannies that offer a glimpse into the real Turkey. Jump into the human rivers that flow through these venues.

Artisan shops

Try to experience some "creative" tourism when you travel. Seek out and appreciate a local craftsperson. In the Tuscan town of Volterra, visit Roberto and Giorgio's powdery workshop and watch as they carve alabaster into exquisite, translucent sculptures. In Rothenburg, Germany, appreciate the printmakers selling etchings made with the same copper-plate techniques that artist Albrecht Dürer used 500 years ago. And the narrow streets near Vienna's cathedral are sprinkled with old-fashioned shops that seem to belong to another era — just the place to pick out an elegant dirndl.

Before these local businesses are pushed out by the rising tide of cookie-cutter chains and synthetic conformity, seek out Europe's true artisans, who are committed to doing things the old-fashioned way. Engaging with these craftspeople is an exciting way to bring local history and culture to life (and you can return home with a memorable souvenir).

Artisans like this alabaster sculptor in Volterra, Italy, keep the local craft alive — and provide meaningful souvenirs for travelers. (Photo: Rick Steves)

Department stores

In Europe, many department stores are just as much of an attraction as the souvenirs they sell. In Paris, visit Galeries Lafayette or Printemps. Harrods is London's most famous and touristy department store, but locals prefer Liberty on Regent Street. In Italy, an upscale department chain is La Rinascente, and in Spain, El Corte Inglés is everywhere. Berlin's mammoth Kaufhaus des Westens (KaDeWe) has a staff of 2,100 to help you sort through its vast selection of 380,000 items. Though lacking the charm of artisan shops and markets, department stores offer an economic and efficient way to pick up souvenirs as well as a glimpse at everyday fashions and local lifestyles.

Boutiques and shopping zones

The best shopping districts not only offer interesting stores, but also let you feel the pulse of the city. In Rome, an early evening stroll down Via del Corso takes you past local millennials making the scene as well as the cheap department stores they prefer. Then head over to the Spanish Steps for the beautiful people and their more elegant shops. In Paris, a stroll from the Bon Marché department store to St. Sulpice Church allows you to sample sleek clothing boutiques and clever window displays while enjoying one of the city's more attractive neighborhoods.

Museum gift shops

Gift shops at major museums (such as the Picasso Museum in Barcelona or the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam) are the place to pick up books, postcards, unusual posters, decorative items or clever knickknacks featuring works by your favorite artist or commemorating a historic event or sight. Museum gift shops are also a good source for books you may not see elsewhere.

Christmas markets

If you're traveling around the holidays, take time out to enjoy Europe's festive Christmas markets. Sprinkled across Europe, but especially popular in Germanic countries, they serve up a healthy dose of holiday spirit and plenty of traditional nutcrackers, ornaments and sweets. Hand-carved wooden ornaments and nativity scenes, lavish wreaths and aromatic candles line the booths. In Germany, look for nutcrackers made in the Erzgebirge region, where they originated. Stroll around while sipping hot mulled wine (Glühwein in German), spiced with cinnamon, cloves and citrus fruits. This quintessential Christmas market drink is usually served in a holiday-themed ceramic mug, which itself makes a fun, affordable souvenir.

I'm often asked about the difference between a tourist and a traveler. To me, a tourist visits all the big sights, sees spectacles on stage and returns home unchanged with a suitcase full of knickknacks. A traveler becomes a temporary local, engages with the culture and comes home enriched, with a vivid collection of experiences and a broader perspective. And, whether you are a tourist or a traveler, or a little of both, a few well-chosen souvenirs can remind you of the highlights of your travels for years to come.

Rick Steves writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.

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Source: Rick Steves: Tips for shopping in Europe