If you’ve been stationed at an overseas military base, chances are you’ve heard of a bazaar. Hosted in virtually every military community, these events are a shopper’s paradise — bringing together vendors from around the world to show their wares.
Most shoppers agree: bazaars are the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts for friends and family… or even just for yourself!
But what are the “must buy” items that sell out first? I asked my radio listeners to name the treasures that you can’t leave Europe without buying from a bazaar. Here’s what they said:
1. Handmade Christmas Ornaments
European Christmas ornaments make unique and beautiful gifts for family back in the United States. Just make sure you pack them carefully when shipping!
2. An Antique Wine Barrel
This popular vessel for fermenting grapes can also make a great statement piece for your home or garden, with a little work. Many old wine barrels are even converted for use as wine racks.
3. Polish Pottery
A centuries-old art form in Eastern Europe, the pottery and ceramics created in the Silesia region of Poland are durable and functional pieces that are unique and easily identifiable.
4. A Fire Column
These decorative metal columns make a statement indoors or out, but their true beauty is unleashed when you light the fire within. Warm your patio in all seasons!
5. Fancy Cheese
Cheese is an ancient food whose origins predate recorded history. Hundreds of types of cheese from various countries exist — each with its own texture, flavor and scent.
6. A Turkish Carpet
These traditional rugs are prized for their high quality, unique geometry and patterns, and lasting value.
7. Belgian Chocolate
Belgium’s association with chocolate goes back as far as 1635. The country is known for pralines and truffles, as well as many unique animals, figurines and more.
8. Wine
Need I say any more? Thousands of varieties of wine are produced annually around the world, and there’s only one way to know which ones you like — the old fashioned taste test.
Stationed in the Kaiserslautern Military Community? Find information about the next bazaar in your area on the Army MWR website or the Ramstein FSS website!
