All In A Days Work

Ever wonder how the term ‘flea market’ got its name? Why would anyone want to name their shopping experience after those jumpy little bloodsuckers? While open-air markets are centuries old and well documented, the origin of the term ‘flea market’ has been generally obscured by history.

Today there are three main theories. The first is that ‘flea market’ is barrowed from the French phrase marché aux puces, literally translated as “market of the fleas.” In the 1998 winter edition of Today’s Flea Market magazine, author Albert LaFarge wrote that the term likely originated from “an outdoor bazaar in Paris, France, named after those pesky little parasites of the order Siphonaptera (or ‘wingless bloodsucker’) that infested the upholstery of old furniture brought out for sale.”

Another theory appeared in the book Flea Market, published by Chartwell Books in Europe. In the introduction, the author speculated that boulevards in Paris were reconstructed to accommodate military marches around the year 1860. This pushed merchants into areas north of the city where they constructed vending stalls to sell their goods and wares. “The gathering together of all these exiles from the slums of Paris was soon given the name ‘marché aux puces’, meaning ‘flea market.’”

Still others contend that the term isn’t French in origin at all, but rather taken from the Dutch word ‘vlaie’ meaning swamp or valley and can be tied to New York City’s 18^th-century “Fly Market,” which stood on what used to be a salt marsh.

While we may never know for certain, flea markets are still fantastic place for savvy shoppers to discover vintage goods.

Let’s Talk Shop

Whether you prefer to call it a swap meet, open market, rummage sale or bazaar, your shopping experience will be very different from visiting a retail store.

Vintage Goodies: Since most of these items are used or handmade, you won’t be paying sticker price. Especially if you know how to haggle. Which means more savings for you!

One of a Kind: For the same reason, many of your flea market finds will be totally unique. Maybe you’ll take home an original art piece or an exciting piece of jewelry repurposed from old gears and watch pieces. Feel free to brag about your flea market finds to friends and coworkers!

Market Mania: Swap meets are known for cultivating a culture all their own. Bargain shoppers, for example, are notoriously early risers. If you want to compete for the best deals and flea market finds, you may want to set your alarm a little early.

Another Person’s Treasure

Of course, there also a few things to look out for when flea market shopping.

Don’t Be a Sucker: While many of the used goods at swap meets are in good condition, it’s probably a smart idea to give your item a close inspection before grabbing your wallet. Minor damage is in the eye of the beholder and can often be used as a bargaining chip to bring down the price. But you definitely don’t want to overlook a design flaw or missing piece that could turn your treasure into a bum deal.

Take the Scenic Route: Why not take the long way around the booths? This way you can see everything the market has to offer before settling on what you really want. Vendors often sell similar items so it can be useful to scope out the best deals and goodies.

Shop Till You Drop

Now that you have all the tips and tricks you need to be a rummage sale expert, search Google to find the best flea market finds in your area. May your next shopping experience be exciting and flea free!

Buying your very first car is an exciting time in the life of anyone from young people just starting out in life to those who are getting their driving licence later on after years of taking public transport. However, if you are just learning to drive because you are financially in a position to buy a vehicle, it is important that you learn the rules of the road well and get in plenty of practice – both in theory as well as in driving.

When preparing to get your driving licence, take extra time to learn the theory and take as many practice tests as you can before going in to take the written test. Not only will this enable you to pass more easily but you will also have a strong foundation in actual situations you may encounter that you didn’t encounter whilst practicing behind the wheel.

1. Safety Is Always Your Main Concern

Some new drivers have always dreamed of owning a sports car that they have been wanting for years. As each new model comes out by the year, their desire for that particular car grows and grows. Unfortunately, the looks of the car may not be what you should be focusing on. Does it hold the road well, especially at higher speeds and around corners? Are there any safety issues which have hit the news such as faulty air bags or seat belts? These are all important considerations when buying a new vehicle and perhaps you need to step back from your dream for a moment in light of what you learn about potential safety issues.

2. Economy – Is It an Issue?

If you have been saving up for any length of time for a new car then chances are your finances aren’t unlimited. When this is the case, look for an economy car that is easy on petrol yet large enough to transport you and any family or friends who will be riding with you often. Technology is getting more and more advanced by the day which might lead you to a car that is dual fuel or bio-fuel. Choose an economy car before your ‘dream car’ if you have any hopes of driving it as much as you’d like.

3. Don’t Forget Emissions

The UK, like all developed nations, is cracking down on vehicles that don’t pass emissions control. Some vehicles will be taxed heavily if they don’t meet certain requirements so take the time to understand the new laws on reducing emissions and the cars that meet with these standards. Save yourself a huge headache by doing your homework in advance.

Yes, buying your very first car is fun and exciting but only if you get a car that will be fuel efficient enough to afford regular driving and safe enough to handle the roads you will be travelling. Also, be mindful of the emissions regulations and what it could cost you if you don’t operate a vehicle within certain standards as defined by the government. The key to buying the perfect car is to be prepared and educated on which type meets all of these important issues. After that, your choices are probably unlimited so enjoy shopping and above all – be safe!