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Uturoa’s local town market, which opens at sunrise daily (but only stays open for a few hours on Sundays), offers a selection of hand-crafted souvenirs and pareus on its upper level as well as a vast selection of Raiatea’s freshest seafood and produce—which make for curiously colorful photo ops—on the main level. It really bustles on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Discover a history that can be felt and a little local flavor with one of the many tours available or explore it all on your own. The beauty of this cemetery is a reflection of it’s location. Worn and unkempt, its air of mysterious romanticism can only be felt and explained with a visit. Although, it is rumored that the above-ground tombs are due to the water levels, it is in fact, mainly Spanish influence that dictated the above-ground practice. Here, you’ll find the reputed resting place of Marie Laveau and a little farther into the city of the dead, her daughter. Both are easily recognized by the offerings left. Here’s a little bit of lagniappe: Many years ago, the groundskeeper started a myth that is still perpetuated by many today. Although the offerings left at the base of the tomb are mainly authentic, the ritual of the 3 x’s are not. Recounted by the misguided groundskeeper to rich white folks after Marie Laveau’s death, the groundskeeper hoped that they would leave money as an offering for the sorely needed repairs of the grounds. It is said that the more gullible the tourists appeared, the sillier the ritual became. It is speculated that the origins of the 3 x’s in fact come from the tomb maker’s signature who mostly poor men of color, could neither read nor write. Be sure you spread the word if you go for a visit and be warned that if perpetuated, you risk a hefty fine.

Panama’s extensive, sinuous coastline provides some of the world’s most delicious seafood. Options are infinite, especially at the capital city’s Mercado de Mariscos. The offering is downhome, traditional and absolutely scrumptious. Pick up something to cook later or just plop down at one of several in-market restaurants for instant gratification. Savoring your ceviche and an ice-cold brew as the market roils around you is pure Panama.

Built in the grand architectural style of the Tang Dynasty, the huge Shaanxi History Museum offers a comprehensive overview of the history of the ancient capital. The museum houses over 370,000 precious relics unearthed in Shaanxi Province. Highlights include sculptures of the twelve Chinese zodiac figures, murals depicting a polo match, and four original terracotta warrior statues.

Shree Jewellers is a definite stop for those with a passion for exquisite jewels. Named “Best Single Jewelry Store in South India” by GJF, the exclusive items on offer include pearls, silver, gold, diamonds, and precious stones. Be sure to peruse the Kundan Collection, traditional Indian jewelry with gold foil set between the stones. The newest location is in Jubilee Hills near HiTech City.

This shop offers a wide variety of high-quality handicrafts from all over Oaxaca. You’ll find a room devoted to woolen rugs, one to woodcarvings, and several to ceramics. On my most recent visit, I couldn’t resist picking up a “Catrina,” one of the female skeletons associated with Day of the Dead festivities, as well as some decorative cut paper.

India is very lucky to have three locations of this Michelin-starred, London-based restaurant: Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi. Yauatcha is a casual yet modern Chinese tea and dim sum house. They also offer loose-leaf teas, wok items, and unbelievably good truffle edamame dumplings. Don’t forget to sample their signature macaroons on your way out.

Industry Screen Studios a full fledged screen print studio that is keeping the screen process alive. From concert posters and fine art prints to custom t-shirts and apparel, Industry works with very talented Artists and Illustrators to create fun, creative, eye catching pieces. They also offer hands on workshops and print demonstrations, so check out their awesome store front/studio in East Austin.

Playa Veracruz is dotted with about a dozen small ranchitos (concessions) and bars. During weekends, it’s especially popular with young locals, who come here to let loose and dine on super cheap grub. The offerings are good: ceviche, fried fish, and plantains. One of the bars is Karimar Aventura. Veracruz Beach is about seven kilometers (roughly 4.5 miles) from Playa Bonita.

Offering a mix of affordable and designer brands, Tsamis Eyewear Boutique at Costa Navarino’s Navarino Dunes sells glasses, contact lenses, sunglasses, fashionable frames, and related accessories. Staff here really know their stuff when it comes to glasses, and can help you choose frames that best suit your face. Moreover, as Messenia features a sunny, Mediterranean climate it’s important to protect your eyes with sunglasses.

What could make a spa with all the typical trappings of luxury even better? Wall-to-wall windows overlooking La Concha bay, that’s what. La Perla does not disappoint, and it’s a great way to spend those finicky winter days when visiting San Sebastián. They also offer massages, which I highly recommend.

Opinionated, obsessive designer Didier Ludot has one of the city’s best collections of vintage couture and accessories. If you’re looking for that perfect Courrèges dress or a mint-condition Hermès Plume bag (one of Ludot’s personal favorites), head to his eponymous boutique in the Jardin du Palais Royal. On offer is haute couture, classic handbags, as well as impeccably restored vintage furs.

Imogene + Willie offers classic clothing and boots, but the real draw is denim. Practically a shrine to jeans, the boutique has patterns hanging from the rafters, and vintage sewing machines rattle away as you shop. Select your favorite cut, and a tailor will custom-fit a pair on-site. 2601 12th Ave. S., (615) 292-5005. This appeared in the October 2013 issue.

In the warm months, the Rosemont Park District’s Barry Recreational Center offers a fun, inexpensive way to keep kids cool—by splashing around in a safe play area with lots of fountains. At $5 a head for non-residents, it’s as cheap and easy a thrill as you can imagine (especially if you’re five years old).

Feathers Boutique has offered a carefully curated collection of vintage clothing for women since 2005, and now also boasts a collection of artisan jewelry to match. Best of all, they’re committed to making fashion accessible (that is, affordable) for everyone. Stop in and have a new experience each time, as their inventory is constantly rotating.