The truth is, there isn’t just one type of Parisian, nor is there one way to act when visiting the city.

But you know us — we couldn’t resist creating a jumbo list of our own. However, we’re listing only friendly do’s and don’ts that will help you make the most of your trip and your budget. Do… keep reading!

Related Paris reading:
• 10 costly mistakes that tourists make
• 10 Ways to prepare for your Paris vacation
• The best SIM Cards for a trip to France

Browse the cheese, but don’t forget to say hello, er “bonjour”, to the shopkeeper. Photo: LEAF Project

Basics

1. Do say “Bonjour” when engaging with another person. This includes all salespeople, servers, front desk, etc. Bonus points for adding a “Monsieur” or “Madame”.

2. Don’t worry about not speaking French beyond the basics. However, do learn a couple of words. Bonjour. Au revoir. Merci. Monsieur. Madame. Oui. Non. Voila — you’ve got it. (Want more? Here are 10 French phrases that can help you save money.)

3. Do seek out locals, or at least try to talk to them at a picnic or in a bar. But try to drop a couple of words in French. It’s a good conversation starter.

4. Don’t expect the French to be rude. They’re just humans. (And you’re far less likely to find yourself in a rude situation if you stick to rule #1 above.)

5. Do learn how to use an “inside voice”. Parisians, in general, are a lot quieter in public places than we’re used to being in the US. You will notice this tout de suite in the Metro, restaurants, in line at the bakery, etc.

Clothing and Packing

6. Do wear comfortable shoes (no stilettos) and clothes that can easily be layered. Pack a nice outfit for special occasions, but don’t go overboard here. You’re mostly going to be walking, and walking, and walking…

7. Don’t come unprepared for the weather. Research the weather before you go and pack accordingly, when possible. Pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.

8. Do wear a scarf in the winter and fall. It might seem like a cliché, but it’ll keep you warm and Parisians wear them all the time. Wrap yourself up — you’ll fit right in.

Eating and drinking

9. Don’t buy bottled water in a restaurant unless you like or need bubbly water. Otherwise, stick to a “carafe d’eau”. It’s delicious — and free.

10. Do spend at least an hour at a café terrace at some point during your trip sipping something. Bring the journal, notepad, book, or postcards, and have the whole experience.

11. Do refill your water bottle at any of the city’s outdoor water fountains. It’s the same delicious water Parisians drink daily. Eco-friendly! Free! Photo-op!

Go for a “tradition”! Baguettes at La Grande Epicerie in Le Bon Marché. Photo: kanuck

12. Don’t buy a baguette “ordinaire”. Stick to the “tradition”. Trust us on this one.

13. Don’t fuss over eating like you eat back home. This is not home, so breakfast options and coffee choices are not the same. (Sorry. But not really.)

14. Do eat things that you have never tasted before. This is Paris and we like to eat. (And we like to eat things that might seem rather unusual to you at first. Go for it!)

15. Do order a carafe of wine at lunch to share… or for yourself. Wine is cheap in France! And you’re on vacation, right?

16. Do eat as much as you can. Once you’re home, you won’t get any more baguettes. Well, maybe you can buy one from Whole Foods, but it won’t taste the same. Here’s how to eat like a local for under €20 a day.

17. Don’t go to McDonald’s. I mean, it’s fine for a bathroom break (and for emergency free Wi-Fi), but the experience isn’t really that different or more exciting than you’d have at the Golden Arches back home.

18. Do throw yourself a picnic if possible. Head to an outdoor market, get some cheese from a fromagerie, some fresh baguettes and head to the wine store. We’re so there.

19. Don’t write off ethnic food in Paris. A lot of it is really good and unique. Just don’t fiddle with the American stuff. But the falafel? Winner!

20. Don’t tip needlessly in restaurants. Please don’t. We’ve talked about this already.

21. Don’t eat anywhere within a beret’s toss of a major tourist destination, especially Sacre Coeur, Eiffel Tower, or Notre Dame. Push a bit farther afield and look for something more authentic without “tourist pricing”. Here are a few choices for dinner in Paris.

22. Do consider restaurants that aren’t listed on TripAdvisor. The site isn’t the final word on dining in Paris — and, actually, it can be quite an echo chamber, sending more and more tourists to the same restaurants, while smaller establishments remain ignored. Head off on your own… follow your nose and your own instincts.

Book accommodations in a central location like Hotel Marignan in the heart of the Latin Quarter. Photo: EuroCheapo

Hotels

23. Don’t pay for breakfast in a hotel or hostel if you don’t have to. It will probably cost you about €9-14 for something that you get (fresher!) at the corner bakery for about €3-4.

24. Do book a hotel that’s as central as possible to avoid wasting time in transit. You might have to pay a few more euros per night, but you’ll save a lot of time and money. EuroCheapo has hotels whether you’re a romantic or traveling with your family. Check out our full guide to cheap Paris hotels.

25. Don’t touch those items in the minibar. Head to the nearest supermarket to pick up water, drinks, snacks, champagne, fruit, etc.

Always keep an eye on your stuff in touristy areas like cafes and popular attractions. Photo: Danile Lobo

Money and Safety

26. Don’t carry your passport and all of your credit cards with you. Leave your passport and some of your plastic in a safe back in the hotel. (Also, do make a copy of the passport and keep it with your travel documents.)

27. Don’t fall for street scams (aggressive petitioners, “charity” collectors, bracelet/ring scam artists, three-card monte dealers, shell game hucksters, etc.). But don’t be freaked out by normal people. Simply avoid anyone who approaches you in an unusual manner. If it feels odd, keep on walking.

28. Don’t let your guard down. Petty crime exists here. Just because Paris can seem like a movie set doesn’t mean pickpockets don’t lurk in the shadows. When sitting at a cafe, keep your purse safe and valuables (including that smartphone!) off the table. Things can disappear from your table between sips…

Shopping

29. Don’t take pictures of people in shops. They tend not to like it that much. It’s going to get awkward.

30. Do go to Paris’s famous flea markets to find something totally unique to bring home. We promise you’ll find something more special than an Eiffel Tower snow globe. (Well, you might find a cool vintage Eiffel Tower snow globe.) Check out a few of our favorite flea markets.

31. Don’t be entirely cheap. Sometimes a few extra euros can go a long way. And if you want to embark on a shopping spree, here’s how to do it on a budget.

Yes, a river cruise along the Seine is touristy, but it’s also a lovely way to see Paris. Photo: Jean-Pierre

Sightseeing

32. Do visit all of the touristy sights that you’ve been eager to visit, even if there’s someone in your group moaning and groaning about it. Don’t leave with regrets about not having visited (fill-in-the-blank). You can even get started on your very first day in Paris.

33. However, don’t feel you have to go to Versailles, even though it’s famous and big and glorious. It won’t change your life unless you’re completely obsessed with Louis XIV.

34. Do buy a travel guide. Much of the information listed is evergreen and will be useful. Plus, it doesn’t run out of batteries and it’s a lot less costly to lose (or spill a glass of wine onto) than an iPad. Here are a few of our favorite Paris guidebooks.

35. Do read a few websites and travel blogs before visiting. (As you’re reading this post right now, you’ve already mastered this one. Well done!) Often websites have more offbeat and more recently updated information than guidebooks and magazines.

36. Don’t bring a selfie stick. No one will like you, and many museums look down on them. Take your photo the old fashioned way — ask that guy from Minnesota walking past you to take it.

37. Do take a boat ride along the Seine. It’s breezy and romantic — well, unless you get stuck with a group of 100 teenagers who are literally going bonkers.

38. Don’t come with a padlock and leave it locked to one of our monuments. Please just don’t.

39. Do take advantage of the city’s many free museums, festivals, and concerts. Paris is full of amazing free attractions, especially during the summer.

40. Don’t just see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre. Try to find something else that resonates with you — and that you don’t have to fight to get close to.

41. Do keep your expectations realistic and remain flexible, with a sense of humor, if possible. Paris is not perfect and sometimes things don’t go as planned. (The Eiffel Tower workers go on strike the day you visit? Take a photo — you’ve got a story!)

42. Don’t plan too many day trips from Paris. I’ve lived here for years and have yet to discover all of Paris. If you have a week, you might not want to spend five days day tripping…

43. Don’t walk around with your headphones on while visiting. Why should your ears miss out while your other senses get to enjoy Paris?

44. Do know the hours and opening times of major sights in advance. Go early or late to avoid the big crowds. And know if you can book major tickets in advance (you can at the Musée d’Orsay and Eiffel Tower, among others).

45. Don’t scorn other tourists – we’re all in this together.

Don’t be afraid to take the Metro and be assertive when boarding if needed. Photo: Chris Yunker

Transportation

46. Do use the Metro to get around town when you have more than 4-5 stations between you and a destination. Is it closer? You can easily walk that. Of course, you can also take a taxi, bus or Uber, too.

47. Don’t be shy in the Metro. Say “pardon” and shove gently when needed.

48. Don’t ride a Vélib public bike if you do not feel safe cycling in a city. It seems fun (and it is!), but it can also be dangerous, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Paris’s streets and traffic patterns.

49. Do some pre-trip research on how Paris works, even if it’s very basic. Know how to get to and from the airport, for example. And be prepared for your first day in Paris.

Wi-Fi

50. Don’t try to connect to free Wi-Fi every chance you get. Yes, it’s tempting, especially if you’re used to being constantly connected back home. But you’re on vacation — Instagram and Facebook when you get back to the hotel at night. You have the power to put away your phone! (Your traveling companions will thank you for this one.)

One last thought

Do resign yourself to the fact that you can’t see it all during your visit. You’ll just have to come back. Paris is a life-long love affair, and it only gets better with each visit.

Your tips

What do you do to make your Paris adventure even better? Tell us in the comments below.

The post Paris: 50 Do’s and Don’ts guaranteed to improve your trip appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Of course, standing out is not necessarily a bad thing, and it’s certainly a practical way of dressing. We are all for Cheapos embracing the style that makes them feel the most comfortable. But it’s also nice to blend in with the locals and not be automatically treated as a tourist.

And best of all, you don’t need a million bucks to spruce up your wardrobe to match the Amsterdam style. It only takes a few simple tricks. We’ve given tips on how to dress in Madrid and Florence, now it’s time to turn out attention to Amsterdam.

Related: Headed to Amsterdam? Read this hotel advice first.

How to dress like a local in Amsterdam

So, if you’ll excuse some blatant stereotyping, here are seven sensible tips to help Americans blend in a bit better in Northern European countries like the Netherlands:

1. Men: Your college sweatshirts do not impress anyone

Look, I know college sweatshirts are comfortable, and many of us have lived in them for years. But leave those stinky and stained pieces of thick cotton with bold letter embroidery behind. They take up a lot of room when packing, and men here usually wear sweatshirts only when going to/coming from sports.

Instead, a zip-up hoodie with a solid color or cool pattern works just as well, is easier to roll up and is more practical for traveling.

2. Women: Pack some tights

Black, medium thick tights that end at the ankle are a staple here for ladies’ fashion. And when packing, they’re lighter and take up less space than a pair of dress pants. Women wear them under dresses, skirts and sometimes shorts. Tights dry faster than pants, make your legs look slim and still cover your lower torso when bicycling.

Tourist fashion in Amsterdam. Photo: Bruce T.

3. Men: Ditch the white sneakers

European men wear sneakers, but not chunky, white basketball shoes that engulf your feet to the ankles. Colors are good, comfort is important, and try on a pair that’s roomy and low cut. From Converse to Puma, Adidas to Nike, men here love their sporty brands, especially if it resembles a soccer shoe. And go for the ankle socks (what are you afraid of anyway with those high cotton socks, scratching your lower calves?).

4. Women: These boots are made for walking

Chances are you won’t need a pair of hiking boots in Europe unless you plan to spend a good week trekking the Alps. Even a day trip can be easily achieved with a normal pair of sneakers with good soles on a walking trail. Land is flat in much of Europe, and filled with hand-laid cobblestone. So stay away from thin Stilettos, leave the expensive hiking shoes at the shop, and go for a comfortable boot with a thick heel that can handle the streets (and bad weather, like fake leather).

Slap on a pair of those tights and a short skirt with a slinky top and you’re ready for a night out. A good, cheap buy is a thin sole insert that can make any shore supportive.

5. Both: Baseball caps and golf visors are a giveaway

I’m just saying, again. I know they’re practical, but no other culture over-wears them quite like we do. There are many cool and fun hats in Europe that are affordable, just as useful on bad hair days and make for great souvenirs.

6. Both: Don’t flip-flop

While we’re at it, save the flip-flops for beachwear only. If it’s hot, find some sturdy sandals.

Sometimes you just need to embrace being a tourist in Amsterdam. Photo: oxlaey

7. Both: Shhhh…

Think before you decide to yell across the bar/restaurant/train car/street for your friend’s attention. You could just walk over there. That’s what the locals would do. Or they would wait until their friend approaches them, avoiding any attention-drawing actions altogether. The last thing you want to be is that stereotypical loud-mouth American whose call out leads to a lot of rolling eyeballs.

Your advice?

Have any tips for acting more like a local? Don’t care at all if you don’t look like a local? Share your thoughts in our comments section!

The post Amsterdam: How to dress and act like a local appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

The names of Italy’s finest designers sit alongside independent boutiques and market stalls as shopping in Rome caters to every budget.

And if you need a cheap place to sleep, we know where those are, too! Check out our favorite budget hotels in Rome.

More Rome tips:
8 Charming hotels in Rome near the historic city center under €100
Rome: 10 Easy ways to save on your next visit
Rome: 25 Free things to see and do

Rome Shopping on the Cheap

Here is my “Top Five” guide to the best places to go whether you are looking for Prada shoes or a flea market bargain.

1. Via Condotti and the Spanish Steps

This is the home of Rome’s designer shopping area and where you will find Prada next to Armani with a sprinkling of Gucci. The shops that line Via Condotti entice your credit card out of hiding with their glittering window displays. Take time also for people watching, as this is the haunt of any celebrity in town worth their Hermes bag. And even if this is way out of your budget, remember it costs nothing to go in and unfold things.

Related: Where to dine for cheap near the Spanish Steps

2. Via Cola di Rienzo

This busy shopping street just behind Castle St. Angelo is home to mid-price shops with a mix of designer boutiques and high street chains. Look out for Brandy, a teenage basement clothes shop that is almost hidden below street level. COIN, one of Rome’s few department stores is a great place to spend an hour or two browsing.

For a bite, check out “Castroni,” a delicatessen that sells not only a fantastic range of Italian delicacies but also stocks international food. It’s the only place in Rome where you can buy peanut butter or baked beans! (Metro A, Lepanto or Ottaviano)

There’s something for everyone on the always bustling Via del Corso. Photo: Chris Yunker

3. Via del Corso

This long narrow street is at the heart of Rome’s historic center running from Piazza Venezia to Piazza del Popolo and a short walk from the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain. During the evenings, the street is packed with shoppers. Wander around the mix of high street stores like H&M, Mango, Diesel, Levis, and Zara mixed with small designer boutiques, bookstores, and the elegant Galleria Alberto Soldi shopping center.

Related: Affordable hotels near Via del Corso

4. Porto Portese Flea Market

Held every Sunday morning, this is the largest market in Rome and the place to come for a bargain. With a mix of second hand and new goods, food, antiques, and general bric-a-brac, spare at least a couple of hours to browse the endless rows of stalls.

Getting there: Tram 8 Largo Argentina to Trastevere Station – then about a five-minute walk to Via Ippolito Nievo. Follow the crowds.

5. EurRoma2 and Castel Romano Outlet

Euroma2 is an upscale shopping center in the EUR area of Rome spread over three floors in an elegant temple style with ornate glass domes. Chain stores and designer shopping sit alongside coffee shops and restaurants catering to all budgets. This is a good place to come during summer as it’s air-conditioned and all indoors.

Getting there: Take the Metro to EUR Palasport Metro Line B. and then take the free shuttle bus that stops just outside, a journey of around 10 minutes.

Castel Romano is a designer outlet village, part of the McArthur Glen chain, around 15km south of Rome. Designer discounts housed in a mock ancient Roman village, brands here include Burberry, Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabanna, and Roberto Cavalli.

Getting there: There is a bus service to the outlet that operates from EUR FERMI Metro Line B, and there is a private shuttle that can be booked at most hotel receptions. See more details.

The post Rome Shopping on the Cheap: 5 spots to find Roman fashion for every budget appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

If, like me, you find sales impossible to resist, then you should definitely avoid the area around Pl. Catalunya, Pssg de Gracia and the Gothic Quarter where there are signs in every shop window beckoning passersby to save 50% or more on 2012 winter fashions.

Here’s how it works:

– Sales began on January 7. Most stores will mark down their merchandise by 20-30%.

– The sales get deeper as the month passes. Every week stores will offer better discounts, so in a way it pays to wait until the third week or so of January. However, if you wait too long your size or a certain style you’ve had your eye on may be sold out. It’s a gamble.

– Most stores offer sale items through January and February.

What’s on sale?

Just about everything! But especially shoes (Spanish boots anyone?), clothing, accessories, and home furnishings. Don’t expect discounts on food or at shops along La Rambla.

Where to buy?

Follow this breakdown of recommended shops, depending on your spending power:

Posh: L’Illa Mall in uptown and boutiques along Pssg de Gracia.

Midrange: Portal de l’Angel is the top choice for a little bit of everything. An outdoor shopping mall branching off Pl. Catalunya, take this pedestrian street into the Gothic Quarter, stopping at big name stores such as Mango and Zara on the way.

Exclusive/Artsy: The Born is jammed with pricy boutiques selling cutting-edge fashions, one-of-a-kind jewelry and exclusive lotions and scents. Most shops in this area offer superb products at prohibitive prices. However, there are a few bohemian boutiques in the mix that may tempt those with less to spend. Start at the Santa Maria del Mar church and wander from there along the side streets.

Shoe sales

My favorite emporium to shoe sale shop is Casas. They have a wide selection of Spanish-made shoes, boots, sneakers and sandals. They do not sell cheap, fall-apart-in-two-months crap, and usually their wares are rather expensive. For this reason it’s best to peruse Casas at sales times when a pair of designer, leather Spanish boots by Vialis might be 50-70% off, making them affordable.

Read more on the Casas Web site.  * Note that Casas also has an outlet store near the Lesseps metro stop that sells discounted shoes year-round.

Also in our guide: If you’re in the process of planning a trip to Barcelona, be sure to swing by our city guide to read reviews of the best budget hotels in Barcelona. All of our hotel picks have been visited and inspected by our Barcelona editor.

The post Barcelona: Rebajas! Winter sales offer steep discounts on winter clothing appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

To avoid hearing me groan when you tell me what you paid for your sandwich, here’s a list of suggested “price ceilings” for some Parisian basics. It’s a good list to keep handy to save a few euros or, you know, if you’re ever a contestant on a French version of “The Price is Right”…

1. Glass of wine

While beer and cocktails can dent the wallet pretty quickly, wine should never be too expensive in a standard café or bar. Avoid the more specialized wine shops and wine bars and opt for a glass of red or white at a more low-key joint. Limit: €4

2. Steak frites

Most cafés and bistrots serve traditional yet affordable French fare. From the well-traveled but enjoyable Chartier to the classic Les Philosophes in the Marais, a cut of meat and frites shouldn’t be a splurge. Limit: €18

3. Walking/bike tour

With multiple free walking tour options, some tourists prefer a private tour to explore the city more intimately. With dozens of choices out there, it’s hard to pick. A walking tour with Oui Paris Tours or a bike tour with Fat Tire is a great, affordable way to get to know the city. Limit: €30

4. Electronics adapter

Many a traveler forgets that outlets and plugs are different in Europe. Souvenir and electronic stores sell adapters to make your chargers fit into the wall outlets, but the cheapest ones can be found at BHV, the all-purpose department store in the Marais. Limit: €10

5. Crepe/Sandwich

Street food can be found everywhere, so prices are competitive. At lunchtime, the choice often comes down to a sandwich or a crepe. For a gooey ham and cheese crepe or a chicken and veggie sandwich, I never worry about having enough money. Limit: €5

6. Clothing

With wintertime approaching, having appropriate socks (ones without holes) seems important. Unprepared visitors often wonder where to get the latest Parisian fashion as they shiver in their tee shirts. Do like the Parisians do and head to the closest H&M or, better yet, to Japanese department store Uniqlo by the Opera Garnier for some good shopping and great site-seeing. Limit: €40 pants, €40 sweater, €3 socks

7. Café

Instead of 7-11 and Dunkin’ Donuts, the French head to the café for a pick-me-up that won’t break the bank. A café (an espresso) may leave some tourists longing for a cup of Joe, but for mere euros you can squat a seat for as long as you’d like. (Tip: Stand at the cafe’s bar for cheaper prices.) Limit: €2

8. Theatre/Opera tickets

If you packed a top hat or a ball gown anticipating a night at the theatre, there is hope. Last minute “rush” tickets for the Opera Garnier and Bastille are extremely affordable if you are patient enough to line up 2-3 hours before the show. Théâtre du Châtelet, which often hosts musicals like Les Misérables and Sweeney Todd, offers rush tickets up until the minute before curtain. Limit: €30

9. Pastry

Unless you’re going to try the trendiest macaron or a French-style cupcake, pastries are a steal in Paris. Bakeries all over the city will serve up the best flaky croissants, lemon tarts, or apple pastries for mere coins. Limit: €3

10. Entrance to a bar/club

If you choose to go to a bar or club on the Champs-Elysées, good luck to you. Personally, I’d never enter a place that made me pay a cover. There are plenty of nightspots on rue de Lappe by the Bastille or in the winding streets of Montmartre that will keep the budget-conscious partier happy.  Limit: €0

What do you think, Cheapos?  What other price limits can you imagine in Paris? Share your own “price ceilings” in our comments section.

Also in our guide: Planning a trip to Paris? Our editors have inspected, reviewed and photographed Paris’ best inexpensive accommodations. We’ve got picks all over town, in the Latin Quarter, near the Louvre, in the Marais and more central neighborhoods.

The post Paris Prices: The maximum we’d pay for everyday items appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

So what can we do about the not-fitting-in situation? Read on my friend, read on.

Start with the shoes

Let’s start with the obvious: lose the shoes. It even rhymes, so no excuses. White New Balance runners might be fine in Connecticut but in Florence they’ll blow your cover faster than whistling “Dixie Land” through a megaphone.

Consider leather walking shoes, leather sandals, or if you must, a more conservative sports shoe. You’ll find affordable shops selling shoes on Via del Corso. And while we’re on the subject of footwear, sports sandals don’t cut it here either. Leather. Leather. Leather! And flip-flops? Forget it.

On the subject of shorts

Let’s move our way up, shall we? How about shorts? Nope. Italians don’t wear them. Unless it’s at the beach where the name of the game is to wear the least amount of clothing possible. A true Italian would rather eat canned tomato sauce than be caught wearing half a pair of pants in the street. Long pants, shirts, dresses, but no shorts.

As for beachwear, one word: Speedo.

Shirts

Now we come to the torso. Remember, you’re trying to blend in, not look like a walking billboard. Big letters out, neatly-pressed shirts or monochrome tees in. Don’t shout with your t-shirt, save that for your hands and face – like the locals do.

The city center is filled with shops and sales are on twice a year at the end of the summer and after Christmas. Take advantage of those, stores slash prices by up to 75 percent.

Clothing outlets

There are several ways of cheaping your way into vogue. One suggestion is to attend “Vintage Selection” – Florence’s annual vintage clothing fair held in late January. Check Stazione Leopolda’s website for more info.

There are also discount clothing outlets in the outskirts of Florence which house most of the big Italian designer labels. The Mall and Barberino seem to be two of the more popular ones. They also offer tour packages which include entrance fees.

Ready to act

So now that you’re all dressed up, what do you do? Stay tuned for my next post: How to act like a local.

The post Florence: How to look like a local – Part 1: The Clothes appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

What do you like? Study the billboards!

But first things first, let’s prepare for our voluptuous quest. Looking for discounts? Schedule your trip during either the big January or July sale periods. Also, know your European size numbers. Upon your arrival, start looking for lingerie billboards. It’s an easy, breezy way to figure out what you like and don’t like. Plus, it’s free.

So without further ado, here are six of my favorite hunting grounds for lingerie. From the grand magasins to the bargain bins of Montmartre, all budgets are covered here. Plus, I’ve asked a few of my Parisian friends to drop the names of their pet brands and shops, along with a few tips.

1. Department stores

Shake the jetlag blues away with a little browsing at Galeries Lafayette. Its entire third floor, a.k.a. “Seductive Fashion” is dedicated to lingerie and hosiery, and yes, it’s got the goods to back up its name. With a dazzling slew of French brands, you’ll be able to cover a lot of ground without a great deal of wear’n’tear on your heels. I personally like shopping here because the no-pressure staff gives me space to browse and dream.

More “Seductive Fashion” at Galeries Lafayette.

Every once in a while, I’ll treat myself to an exquisite piece by century–old Aubade and Galeries Lafayette’s very own alluring house brand. Here you’ll also find Erès—my friend Anne’s favorite brand. “Cozy,” is how the discerning book designer succinctly described her decades-old French staple. Erès’ bathing suits also boast all-natural construction. You won’t find any uncomfortable high wire acts here, Cheapos.

2. Old-school lingerie shops

Are you in need of individual attention or a bra fitting? Well then, trek it to one of the independently owned lingerie and hosiery shops. My former beau (and now my husband) purchases special little sweet-nothing gifts at the Corsetry boutique Claverie at 234 rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin, near Metro Louis-Blanc.

In business since 1860, Josephine Baker and Mistinguett are just a few of the starlets who frequented the former corset showroom. Art Nouveau stained glass and curved staircases abound! These small classic French institutions are slowly becoming extinct, so while the sheer fun of it lasts, take a browse!

Etam at the former La Samaritaine department store

3. Chain, chain, chain

Trendy French chains also stock tantalizing collections. Musician Cat Masson didn’t miss a beat when I quizzed her about her favorite lingerie lines. “I love Etam and Oysho, too! Princesse Tam Tam is really nice—a little pricy but worth it! Here’s my secret. After I wash them in the machine inside a little lingerie bag at 30 to 40 degrees maximum, I hang them until they’re dry. Don’t forget the bag! They’ll last longer.”

4. Like Target?

Well, then you’ll love its French cousin Monoprix. Affordable and hip, the trusty chain also commissions designers to create their collections. My clothes designer friend Ghislaine swears by Monoprix’s house brand of lingerie. “It’s affordable and good quality. And pretty too! Some I have had for ages! So long that the tags have become unreadable.”

Rue de Rennes is a prime Cheapo hunting ground for lingerie. Here the brands to spy for are Monoprix (50), Valege (146) and Darjeeling (152), along with Cat’s picks: Etam (135-139), and Princesse Tam Tam at 53 rue Bonaparte, located just a hop, slip and jump from the Rennes Metro stop.

Dig in at Sympa in Montmartre.

5. Bargain bin bliss

And squeaking of historic buildings, don’t leave Paris without experiencing the bargain bins of Sympa at 62 Boulevard de Rochechouart. A Cheapo haven, it now occupies a part of “le bal de l’Elysée Montmartre,” where the famed Can Can star (and favorite muse of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec) La Goulue made her racy debut!

Here at Sympa, Etam, Petit Bateau, and Unzies sit pretty on the outside, while Chantelle and Huit hold court inside. My book editor friend Annelise recommends Petit Bateau. A century-old institution, she said, “For me, the “touch” of the clothes is pure cotton, simple looks, and a sweet taste of childhood.”

Shhhh. Secrets Pigalle in Pigalle.

6. Pigalle

Located near Sympa you’ll find the shops of Pigalle. Whether you’re in the market for false eyelashes, custom-made corsets, or Nancy Sinatra-worthy go-go latex boots, they’ve got you covered both night and day. I’d kick off my search at either Secrets Pigalle on 62 Boulevard de Clichy or Rebecca Rils at 76 Boulevard de Clichy. Kitty corner to the pair of shops is the Moulin Rouge. There are lots of distractions, so look both ways before crossing!

Cheapos, do you have a favorite lingerie shop in Paris?

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During the years of the Celtic Tiger boom, it was just about impossible for a Cheapo to do any shopping in Dublin. Sure, it’s fun to marvel at the gorgeous window displays at Brown Thomas department store on Grafton Street, but buying anything? Not in the cards, especially not with the exchange rate.

That is unless you know where to look for vintage stores. These stores have been offering affordable shopping since the boom, and have survived even as many of the glitzier stores have closed in recent years.

Seek out the following shops and you can afford to bring home some gifts for friends and family–and maybe a little something for yourself, too.

The Harlequin
13 Castle Market, Dublin 2
Web site (Facebook)

Besides being located smack in the middle of one of my favorite areas of Dublin, this shop has everything you could want in a vintage store: racks and racks of well-organized, interesting clothes, bags, and jewelry–without even a trace of that musty vintage smell. Some parts of the store are organized by decade, other parts by item.

If you love handbags–beware–this store has an incredible selection of gently-used bags. And belts. And even hats, too.

The Loft at Powerscourt Townhouse
59 South William Street, Dublin 2
Web site

Cheapos walking into the indoor shopping center that is the Powerscourt Townhouse might think at first that they’ll never find anything affordable. Yet if you’re visiting on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday–climb the stairs to the very top floor where you’ll find a space called “the Loft.”

Here, independent designers and vintage enthusiasts set up a little rack of their items. Handmade jewelry, bath products, affordable little dresses and vintage belts are all on offer here. You can shop happily knowing your purchase will support small businesses.

A Store is Born
34 Clarendon Street, Dublin 2

Only open on Saturday from 11 a.m.–6 p.m., you could walk by this space any other time of the week and barely notice it. It is the size of a garage, and is packed with interesting sweaters, scarves and jackets. If the Dublin weather has you wishing you packed something heavier, stop into this store on a Saturday to stock up on warm items.

If possible, arrive early as the small space gets crowded by mid-afternoon. The earlier you arrive, the better the selection.

All three of these vintage stores are located within a 5-minute walk of each other, making a manageable day of shopping. There are other vintage shops in Dublin that specialize in gowns or silk blouses–but Cheapos will be best served by sticking to this list.

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Grande Épicerie de Paris Bon Marché

So fire up your printers, Cheapos! Here’s the agenda for the first day of our shop ’til you drop campaign of Napoleonic proportions!

Tips

Do pack one oversized bag for your goods. While the multiple-shopping bag scene with Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman” is charming and all, you’re just inviting advances from pickpockets. Most grocery store chains sell durable large bags for just a few cents. Franprix’s current model was inspired by Mondrian!

Also, for the love of saving both time and money, purchase your Metro tickets by the “carnet” (10-pack) before you set out.

Galeries Lafayette’s dome

10:00 a.m.: Abbesses
Metro: Abbesses, line 12

After a short run around the Sacré Coeur ’hood to help Wen shake the jet lag blues, we headed to Sympa for some bargain bin shopping. This string of shops runs along rue de Steinkerque, a street once notorious for its brothels and dance halls. (Picasso shopped here!)

On this day we were able to score some slinky black tops by Carling, each costing €2.99 a pop! Confession: I bought twelve, and my sister purchased nine. Heads-up: Etam’s frilly spring 2011 line of lingerie is currently on sale for just a few euros apiece!

11:00 a.m.: 140 bis, rue de Rennes
Metro: Rennes, line 12

We then soared to Zara at the Félix Potin building (an Art Nouveau masterpiece) on the bustling rue de Rennes. It’s a pet Zara hot spot because the location usually serves as one of last stops for the chain’s leftover winter clothing sales.

Commes des Garcons’ exhibit at the Musée de la Mode et du Textile

Here my sister scooped up a classic belted trench coat, along with seven cap-sleeved turtle necks, all costing just €3.99 a piece. By this victorious moment, the woozy feeling of jet lag had completely abandoned the scene. Yes, sometimes fleeting joy CAN be bought!

12 noon: Bon Marché
Metro: Sevres-Babylone, line 12

After grabbing soda pops just outside the Rennes metro stop, we fast-trekked to the Christian Dior exhibition at Bon Marché. Decked out in Dior’s beloved white and grey, the exhibit was made up of iconic “New Look” ensembles, photographs, and super hip multimedia projections on oversized accessories like chairs, mannequins and hat boxes. After a few spins around the gallery, we snagged a few sweets at the Grande Épicerie de Paris Bon Marché, which is just behind the main building.

Wendy’s new coat

Please note: the Dior exhibit closes March 26, 2011, so if you’re in Paris now, hotfoot it there right away. Not in Paris? Fret not, because the department store often coordinates free exhibits. There will be more to come!

1:30 p.m.: Carrousel du Louvre
Metro: Louvre Rivoli, line 1

Feeling the sugar rush, we raced to the “Les années 1900-2000” exhibition at the Musée de la Mode et du Textile. Our favorite showstoppers included Jean Paul Gaultier’s plumes, Junya Watanabe’s unstoppable bustles, and Comme des Garcons’ bulges in all the wrong places.

Afterwards, we had a wonderful, marvelous photo-op at the Arc-de-Triomphe du Carrousel. Film buffs, this is where the iconic balloon scene in “Funny Face” with Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire was shot. ‘S Marvelous!

3:30 p.m.: Samaritaine at Pont Neuf
Metro: Pont Neuf, line 7

Spotting a few dramatic-looking rain clouds heading our way, we made a joint decision to promenade swiftly down rue de Rivoli to Zara’s other “last stop” for sale items, located in the former Samaritaine department store at Chatêlet.

After ogling its spectacular exterior, we nipped into Zara where Wen picked up a few more turtlenecks (Can you ever have enough? I don’t think so!), and I scored a fur-lined vest and a thick green felt dress, both costing just €6.

4:30 p.m.: Pont Neuf and Saint Germain
Metro: Pont Neuf, line 7

We then made our way to the Pont Neuf to pay homage to King Henri IV (a.k.a. “Le Vert Galant”), and yes, to check out his boots. Green with envy and fatigue, we slowly crept across the bridge, limping toward Saint Germain des Prés.

The dapper monarch’s benediction must have been with us because in no time at all we found ourselves seated in a cozy boutique, surrounded by hundreds of boots, all on sale. The proprietor was extremely personable, helping my sister find the boots of her dreams. The boots? On Sale. The Cendrillon (Cinderella) experience? Priceless.

View from the flat at l’heure bleu

6:00 p.m.: Boulevard Haussmann
Metro: Havre-Caumartin, line 7

Losing both daylight and any remaining feeling in our feet (or “dogs” as my grandmother Wentz would say), we ended our whirlwind day trip by paying a call on those Belle Époque beauties, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps on Boulevard Haussmann.

After an ogle and a gaze at GL’s amazing dome, we stopped by its gourmet shop, where we loaded up with bread, Cantal cheese, and a bottle of crisp white Cheverny. Then we slowly hobbled back to Saint-Lazare, where we caught line 12 back to Abbesses, just in time for l’heure bleu (twilight), more sister bonding, and planning for the next day!

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Two seasons of sales

The summer sales are held at the beginning of July and last through mid-August. This is when shopkeepers lure in shoppers to snatch up those deeply-discounted sandals and swimsuits, just before the summer ends.

In the winter, the sales start around the beginning of January and last until mid-February. Smart shoppers hold out until after Christmas to grab up the good buys during the winter sales. This year, the sales run through February 16, 2011.

Boy oh boy, can one find some great stivali (boots) on sale! Yep. During the winter sales, Italians all over the country come out and bombard mom-and-pop shops, outlets and even mega-shopping malls. And believe me, the bargains abound.

Making the most of the “saldi”

Before you hit the stores, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are my shopping tips:

1. Not all discounts are real.

Unfortunately, some shops dishonestly jack up their “regular” prices during this period and tack on a “deep discount” (“sconti”) sign next to them. This is to make you believe that you’re getting a good deal, when actually you’re not. Therefore it’s best to shop around and compare prices.

2. Pay close attention to return policies.

In Italy, you can almost never return an item you’ve purchased and get your money back. It’s just not part of their consumer culture. Some shops don’t even let you return anything, period. When permitted, stores will allow you to exchange items or receive a store credit to be used within a limited period of time. Therefore, when in doubt, ask about a store’s return policy.

3. Try asking for an additional sconto (“discount”).

Most big stores won’t honor your request. However, some of the smaller shops will lower the price even further, especially if they’re desperate to sell. It never hurts to ask.

4. Beware of the signs that say “Non si prova.”

“Non si prova” means that you can’t try it on. In some stores and with certain items, this is the policy. There must be a good reason for this. Honestly, however, to me it sounds a bit sketchy. If I can’t try it on, then I’m not buying it.

5. Know where to buy.

There are several shopping districts in Rome. Listed below are some of the most popular shopping streets and malls.

Shopping Streets:

Via Cola di Rienzo (Prati)
Via Nazionale (Centro Storico)
Via del Corso (Centro Storico)

Shopping Malls:

EUROMA 2
230 stores + restaurants
Via Cristoforo Colombo angolo Viale dell’Oceano Pacifico
Tel.: 06 /5262161
Web site

GALLERIA PORTA DI ROMA
220 stores + restaurants + movie theater
Via Alberto Lionello, 201
Tel.: 06/87074217
Web site

ROMA EST
210 stores + restaurants + movie theater
Via Collatina
Tel.: 06/ 22511377
Web site

PARCO LEONARDO
210 + restaurants + movie theater
Via Bramante, 31 & 65 (Fiumicino)
Tel.: 06/45422448
Web site

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