Away From Tourists, Tuscan Charm Meets Fresh, Local Products In EastCentral Florence


Piazza Ghiberti, Florence.

E-mail:  mercato.ambrogio@virgilio.it

Having spent several weeks in Florence over the years, I find myself returning over and over again to the wonderful Mercato Sant’Ambrogio. Situated just northeast of Santa Croce and around the corner from the Loggia del Pesce and numerous antique stores, this indoor and outdoor market sells everything from underwear, socks, shoes and clothing to salami, cheeses, bread, pasta, fruit, vegetables and wine.

Locals abound and few tourists venture this far east of centro storico (historical center) even though Mercato Sant’Ambrogio has been around since 1873. The covered stalls outside offer shade from the summer heat, housing the fruit and vegetable vendors as well as those selling clothing, shoes, household items, and more. 

Much smaller, intimate, and less touristy than the Mercato Centrale located on the northern periphery of the historical center, Sant’Ambrogio feels much more comfortable and authentic. You can even sit down at the small Trattoria da Rocco (Mangino Gianpaolo) for a very inexpensive lunch (open Mon-Sat from 7 AM – 2 PM) at one of the few small tables where you will likely be dining with neighborhood residents rather than droves of tourists.
Gelateria Gallo Ghiottone Offers Tasty, Inexpensive Gelato Just Around The Corner!
So if you are looking for an authentic experience, inexpensive clothing, and fresh, local products away from the relentless tourist traps of Florence, Mercato Sant’Ambrogio is the place for you …

CombatCritic Gives Mercato Sant’Ambrogio 9 Out Of 10 Bombs




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Title: Away From Tourists, Tuscan Charm Meets Fresh, Local Products In EastCentral Florence
Key Words: Mercato Sant’Ambrogio, mercato, sant’ambrogio, ambrogio, Santa Croce, santa, croce, Florence, Firenze, market, indoor, outdoor, fruit, vegetables, shopping, travel, value 

JC Penney Is Better Than Kohl’s, But Not By Much!


Kohl’s refused to work with me after THE ONLY LATE PAYMENT IN 25+ YEARS partially as a result of their failure to send a bill or late notice, so we started shopping at JC Penney after a many year absence. It seemed like they were offering great prices between 2012 and 2013 in Kansas City, Missouri, but recently the “value” seems to have disappeared, at least here in Lawrence, Kansas.

The store here in Lawrence is dead as a ghost, so it is only a matter of time before this one-time giant goes belly-up like so many other retailers these days. Too bad because I do not buy clothes or shoes online because sizes vary so much and inevitably they do not fit once they arrive. 

Make sure you read the fine print on their coupons. It says 25% off on shoes, but in the fine print it says “athletic shoes excluded” … I didn’t have my glasses with me and made the trip across town for some much needed tennis shoes. What a waste of my time and gas!!!

CombatCritic Gives JC Penney (Lawrence, KS) A Lackluster 4 Out OF 10 Bombs … BOMBS ARE GOOD!







Key Words: JC Penney, JC, Penney, JC Penneys, Pennys, Penny’s, department store, department, store, clothes, clothing, shoes, purses, shop, shopping, Lawrence, Kansas, CombatCritic, TravelValue

A Friendly, Vibrant Vibe Awaits You at Mercado del Rio Piedras!


A Friendly, Vibrant Vibe Awaits You at Mercado del Rio Piedras!

Leaving the Rio Piedras train station, go straight one block to De Diego street, turn left, and go about 10 blocks. Mercado del Rio Piedras will be in your left. 


Occupying a full block, the market has fruit, vegetables, food stalls, clothing and sundry shops. Mostly locals, it’s a good place to escape tourists and get a cheap lunch!

Strictly locals, this market has a little of everything either inside the large mercado or in the surrounding shopping zone. Inexpensive food stalls, fruit and vegetables, clothing, toys, souvenirs, and a friendly, vibrant vibe await you in Mercado del Rio Piedras! If you want to escape tourists and find some great bargains, THIS IS A MUST SEE in San Juan!


CombatCritic Gives Mercado del Rio Piedras 9 Bombs Out of 10 … BOMBAS ARE BUENAS!

Key Words: Mercado del Rio Piedras, mercado, market, rio, piedras, river, stones, shopping, food, eat, clothing, shops, shoes, fruit, vegetables, San Juan, Puerto Rico, CombatCritic, TravelValue