Does anyone have any shopping tips for me (where to shop, bargaining, etc..)? I am going to Rome/Florence/Venice... <BR> <BR>Thanks! <BR>KT

Declare everything that you buy. It will help you avoid huge hassles. Italian designer purses, etc... are cheaper in Italy than in the US so stock up.

When you see something perfect, buy it. Don't wait until you get home and have regrets. <BR> <BR>In Venice, I suggest wandering for a while to get the overview of what is available. For example, I stopped in at least 40 shops which sold Murano glass, and then I finally settled on my favorite. Because they were all just near the Rialto bridge, I felt safe in walking away and finding the shop again. That isn't necessarily true if you get "off the beaten track." You may never be able to FIND the track again! <BR> <BR>One thing that makes a great souvenir from Venice (and also a great "Thinking of you" gift for friends) is a piece of Murano glass in the shape of a piece of candy. They are available in many shops. I brought mine home and glued a magnet onto the back. It maked a great kitchen magnet. Whenever I see it, I think of Venice. <BR> <BR>Purses in Florence are out of this world. Again, don't leave Florence without one if you really like it. (I did. My daughter bought hers, and I could kick myself!) <BR> <BR>Have a great time shopping! <BR> <BR>Deborah

Florence is the leather center of the world it seems. There are many shops selling leather products (coats, shoes, purses, etc) and the prices are attractive. My wife really loves a line of shoes called Lilly of Florence, actually owned by an American and her daughter, and their factory and main shop is in Florence. These shoes are carried in Nordstram here so they are pricey. She saved big bucks on the shoes there.

shopping in italy is fabulous ( all those designer shops), and I had the best time in Gucci in Florence but be wrned. Italy is a very expensive country. If you plan to buy some designer gear, check out prices at home first for comparison. I found it slightly cheaper than London (where I come from), but then everywhere is! Bargain on market stalls (my friend bought a fabulous leather jacket this way in Florence) but not in the shops where prices are fixed. Have fun.

Venice: Carnival masks (the real thing or the smaller reproductions); handmade paper (stationery, journals, diaries, etc.); jewelry (shops in St Mark's Square, as well as throughout the area). <BR> <BR>We didn't do any 'bargaining', but when we purchased a rather large amount in one store, we were given a couple of items at no cost....