The world's best flea markets for the shopper on a budget

If you're addicted to shopping just like I am, and enjoy street shopping and everything that comes with it - the bargaining, the hunting, the walking and so on - this is just for you. 

Street shopping is a boon to people who don't really have stacks of money to blow on shopping and yet, want to find that perfect antique almirah for their home, or that frayed denim jacket that's so in vogue. So where does the girl on a budget go? Well, to a flea market, of course! 

Flea markets are such a fun experience and though it may not be everyone's cup of tea, I know for a fact, that they're tonnes of people out there, just like myself, who find this kind of retail therapy thrilling and exhilarating. If you're one of them, here's your chance to virtually explore the world's best flea markets with me. 

Also, if you ever plan a trip to the countires mentioned below, you'll know where to find awesome stuff at unbelievable rates...

1. Bushwick Flea, New York, USA

The Bushwick Flea market is the ideal place to visit on a lazy Sunday. Take a walk around the fifty odd stalls and submerge yourself in the cosy, warm vibe that the place has. You're sure to return back with many more shopping bags in your hands, than you initially planned. 

2. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Thailand

One of the largest amongst the many shopping locations in Thailand, this place is super coulourful and a delight for any food enthusiast. You can expect to sight freshly picked produce, handmade sweets and bright souvenirs, all on a canoe and from a canoe! It’s one of the noisiest market places, as people raising their tones to bargain is a common phenomenon there. 

3. Monastiraki Flea Market, Athens, Greece

Books, clothes, paintings, trinkets and all kinds of beautiful, fun things, the Monastiraki market will surprise you with its vast variety. The place has a festive, jolly vibe and is a great place to find antique collectibles. Sunday is the best day for a visit. 

4.  Flohmarkt im Mauerpark, Berlin

Like most flea markets, this one too, is open only on Sundays. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind clothing pieces and at throwaway prices. However, one must keep in mind that a good bunch of vendors are actually students and local artists, who sometimes sell their creations as 'vintage' products, at high prices. 

5. Portobello Road Flea Market, London

Portobello in London is popular for the whopping two thousand stall market that entices buyers every Saturday. From fruits, to clothes, to books and records - there's not much you won't find here. 

6. Chor Bazaar, Mumbai

How can we talk about flea markets and leave out our very own Chor Bazaar. The name literally translates to 'Thief Market' and is a place that's renowned as one of the largest flea markets in India. The market is infamous for selling stolen items, but nevertheless, that hasn't stopped a shopping enthusiast from walking it's length and breadth to hunt for home items like sofas, tv sets, lamps and so on. 

7. Rose Bowl Flea Market, California

Held inside a large stadium like place, the Rose Bowl Flea Market is a must visit when in California. Every month, more than twenty thousand people flock this place, to pick up all kinds of stuff, from bikes to jewelry and from clothes to art.

Where would you like to go, if given the chance? Let us know in the comments below...