3 Top Travel Spots for Shopping

If you're passionate about finding traditional crafts and unique artisan goods that embody the spirit of your destination, look no further than China, Colombia, and Madrid, Spain. These locations offer rich heritage and exceptional quality. The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) can be an essential ally in planning a trip focused on design and culture beyond typical souvenirs.

For over half a century, this organization has been a reliable resource for travelers. Comprising a network of US-based tour operators, USTOA ensures travel experiences that are more thoughtful, sustainable, and secure. Their tour operators can guide you to artists and craftspeople whose creations highlight local materials and cultural heritage—imagine the vibrant night markets of Shanghai, the historic streets of Bogotá, and two iconic shops tucked away in the lively streets of Madrid.

With the support of USTOA's tour operator members at your side, you'll be led by local experts to discover hidden gems and shops known for their top-quality keepsakes. Additionally, you can enjoy peace of mind through USTOA's consumer protection initiatives, including the $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program and a long-standing reputation for travel excellence.

To further safeguard your luggage and any treasures you gather on your return home, take precautions with the help of Crum & Forster's reliable travel insurance, available through their partnerships. This insurance is designed to keep both travelers and their valued possessions safe and secure from beginning to end.

Explore the Historic Tianzifang District in Shanghai

Few destinations on the planet present such a captivating mix of history and modernity as China, where the vibrant sights, sounds, and tastes await in its traditional markets and contemporary malls. In Shanghai’s Tianzifang District, you may feel as if you’ve stepped into another era. Here, ultra-modern boutiques and cafés coexist within the charming 19th-century shikumen buildings, a testament to the neighborhood's origins in the Shanghai French Concession.

Despite its long-standing appeal, Tianzifang remains somewhat of a hidden gem, drawing the trendiest visitors in China. Wander through the artistic studios nestled in its green alleyways, such as the Changhe Zhinan Pottery Studio, or visit the various textile shops where you can be fitted for custom hanfu clothing, the iconic traditional attire of the Chinese Han people.

You can also take a two-hour flight west to Xi’an for a truly historical experience. Don't miss a visit to Tang Paradise, an enchanting theme park that immerses you in romance and tradition. Here, you can explore traditional crafts and indulge in exquisite cuisine, all set against stunning architecture reminiscent of the time when Xi’an was the world's largest city a thousand years ago.

Another fantastic experience is a hanfu photoshoot. You can choose from locations such as the Lianxi Zhi boutique on Yanta South Road, collaborate with a professional makeup artist at Xin Liufeng Mu Jin, or capture beautiful moments in Qujiangchi Ruins Park, where the remnants of a Han Dynasty palace create a magical backdrop.

Bogotá’s shopping district, where tradition harmonizes with innovation

As the largest city in Colombia, often referred to as the 'Country of Beauty' for good reason, Bogotá sits at the geographical heart of the nation. This central location has allowed it to absorb centuries of influences from across Colombia and beyond. This rich tapestry of influences is most evident in its vibrant design scene, where bright, tropical hues from the Caribbean blend with handcrafted goods found in both contemporary and traditional shops. Central to this experience is Calle de los Anticuarios, a hub for modern cuisine, art, and crafts.

For the trendiest selections on Calle de los Anticuarios, St. Dom is an essential stop. Since opening in 2014, this concept store (with a second location in Cartagena) has been a platform for hundreds of up-and-coming Colombian designers, promoting a philosophy of 'positive consumption' through clothing perfect for beach days, formal events, and everything in between.

Just next door is the Calle de los Anticuarios location of Artesanías de Colombia, which is part of a national initiative that includes four retail outlets and various projects aimed at supporting Colombian artisans. This establishment highlights home goods, gifts, and more crafted using traditional methods and local materials. Among its exceptional offerings are vibrant knit hammocks, traditional momposina-style jewelry, and beautifully woven fiber baskets made by Indigenous groups like the Huitoto.

Timeless elegance in the heart of Madrid’s historic downtown and surrounding areas.

Dating back to the 9th century, Madrid beautifully balances its historical roots with modern allure. From its charming downtown to the scenic villages scattered across the meseta, or plateau, the city is a hub of fashion. Its reputation as a style capital is partly attributed to Cristóbal Balenciaga, who launched one of his first ateliers here. The city also owes its fashion evolution to the Movida Madrileña, an underground movement that forever transformed Spanish fashion.

There are countless opportunities to explore this contemporary style, particularly at El Corte Inglés, a historic department store with multiple locations throughout Madrid. Stop by its flagship store on Calle Raimundo or its branch near the Casa de la Arquitectura museum to discover the finest name-brand shopping all in one place.

Alternatively, anyone wandering through downtown Madrid, especially in the chic neighborhoods of Malasaña and Chueca, located about 20 minutes south of Castellana by Metro, will discover a wealth of elegance amidst its 19th-century architecture and wide boulevards. Among the numerous historic shops, two of the city's most cherished boutiques stand out, showcasing a legacy of quality that empowers artisans to innovate in the modern era.

For those seeking unique Spanish footwear perfect for a sunny day at the beach, Antigua Casa Crespo has been handcrafting espadrilles, known locally as alpargatas, since 1863. Suitable for all ages—women, men, and children—these iconic rope-soled shoes are made from natural, sustainable materials and come in a vibrant array of colors and styles.

If you need something stylish for overcast days, take the Metro a few stops south to Capas Seseña, another iconic shop with a long history of creating handmade cloaks, ponchos, and capes since 1901. Favored by renowned madrileños and extranjeros alike, including King Alfonso XIII, Plácido Domingo, Federico Fellini, and Ernest Hemingway, this outerwear offers an eternally chic, sophisticated, and distinctly Spanish aesthetic.

Bring home your treasures with Turkish Airlines.

Turkish Airlines is a top-notch option for traveling with elegance and comfort. It ensures you and your purchases reach your destination while you feel your absolute best.

With flights to 130 countries—more than any other airline globally—Turkish Airlines features massaging seats, onboard chefs preparing meals on demand for Business Class passengers, entertainment options at every seat, and exclusive lounges in airports around the world. Additionally, a complimentary stopover in Istanbul offers a fantastic chance to experience the city's culture through shopping, from antique bazaars to modern megamalls and Anatolian rug ateliers.

To enter for a chance to win a $10,000 travel certificate for a trip to your choice of China, Colombia, or Madrid, Spain, with a member of USTOA, visit USTOA from now until October 31, 2024.

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