Advice Concerning Buying from Street Vendors, Please!
 

I have read alot of postings from people talking about different items they buy from street vendors in cities such as Florence, Rome, etc. <BR>And this "practice" is mentioned in travel guides, too. <BR>Obviously this is different than buying from street vendors in places such a New York City? <BR>I would never buy anything off the street down there, <BR>But maybe I am just too isolated up here in Vermont, and this has become a more acceptable practice than when I went to school down in New York over 30 yrs ago! <BR> <BR>Please let me know opinions, experiences etc of buying off the street in Italy! <BR> <BR>Thanks so much, <BR>nancy <BR>

Dear Nancy: <BR> <BR>If your policy is not to buy from street vendors in N.Y. then I suggest you don't do it anywhere else. You have to assume that you get what you pay for. <BR> <BR>We buy from street vendors in Europe quite frequently, but only souveniers such as tee shirts and locally-made objects such as necklaces with beads made made from Mt. Etna lava. Just trinkets, but interesting conversation pieces and token gifts for the folks at home.

Hi Nancy, I don't hesitate to buy things from street vendors in Rome (or New York, either!), although I wouldn't buy anything of great value, of course. I bought a silk scarf ($10?) from a vendor outside the Colisseum, just because it was a very windy day and I didn't have a hat. Every time I wear it here at home, I get compliments. Next year, I'm buying one for everybody on my Christmas list!

Nancy, I bought several belts and silk ties from a street vendor on Via Natzionale in Rome last year. They have proven to be quality products which I purchased at a price less than half of what I would pay in the US. I also saw some items that were little better than trash being sold from street vendors. So its Caveat Emptor (buyer beware) but if you're picky, you just may find some real deals. Enjoy the experience!

Hey Karen, <BR>I think I remember reading something you posted a bit ago, about that scarf you bought! <BR>Mike, Yes, buyer beware! <BR>Thanks both for advice. <BR>nancy