3 Best Places to Shop in Sichuan and Chongqing, China

Carrefour is the largest foreign-owned department store chain in China. The France-based giant sells everything from congee to caviar, plus there's a decent import section with all the goodies from back home. Carrefour is the best place in Chongqing to stock up on Western food and drink before a Yangtze cruise.

Nothing says modern China quite like this gigantic superstructure currently holding the "biggest free-standing building in the world" title. China is no stranger to superlatives and this stands as a reminder by the government of just how economically powerful China, and particularly Chengdu, has become. One can shop, sleep, swim, and ice skate without leaving. The Paradise Island Water Park even provides artificial sunlight. The massive structure designed by a British-Iraqi architect has also become a huge embarrassment to the Communist Party due to reminders of the widespread corruption, as the billionaire financier was convicted of embezzlement and since vanished.

A good place to shop for souvenirs is Song Xian Qiao Antique City, the country's second-largest antiques market, with more than 500 separate stalls selling everything from Mao-era currency to fake Buddha statues to wonderful watercolor paintings. It's near Du Fu's Cottage and Wu Hou Temple. The market does not get into full swing until late morning. There are several noodle shops and teahouses surrounding the market and river.

Always counter offer with less than half the asking price and proceed from there.