A rug tip. I bought a rug in Turkey. Many high end rug stores will specially wrap up a rug for shipment. My rug store actually put it in a canvas duffel. When you go to the Istanbul airport, the airport lines are filled with folks shipping their rugs as extra luggage.

I bought and brought an extra large suitcase, which I sent along empty. Doug and I put our smaller suitcases inside. When we purchased things, we just put it inside the empty suitcase. One must come prepared!!!

I live in Switzerland. I found Murano glass in our stores actually cheaper than in Murano. There is no discount in EU on Orefors or Kosta Boda or Baccarat or Lalique. You only get deals by going to their seconds factory stores.

With the dollar the way it is today compared to the Euro, prices on EU goods could be inflated in the US. Therefore, if there is something you really want, it may be worth it.

Another tip. Check the internet for prices and know exactly what you want and how much it costs before you purchase in Europe.

I live in the NYC area and I found rug prices at ABC Carpet and Bloomingdale's Clearance Center were equal to or perhaps a bit better than at the source. If you pay duty on your purchases, you may be overpaying. Additionally, since rugs are considered crafts, they are not subject for duty free. Hence, no tax back.