Apparently there’s a “Steelers” version of the Beyonce song “Single Ladies” and it’s called “Steeler Ladies.” Here’s a snippet:

Gonna win it and they’re gonna put a ring on it
In the superbowl, the Steelers will be bringin’ it
Gonna win it and they’re gonna put a ring on it

Yeah, I couldn’t believe it either and then I saw this rack of shoes at a shop and, well, that answered any questions I had.

If you consider yourself a lady or a gent, it is mandatory that you carry a suitable umbrella: One that doesn’t flap in the wind, turn inside out every few seconds, or make you look like a five-year-old. In this dire economy, you may find that a good, sturdy umbrella is the least of your concerns but think of it as a metaphor for life: You can weather the storm if you’re well protected. And that is where James Smith & Sons comes into the picture. The London-based family-owned shop has been crafting umbrellas, sticks and canes since 1830. For those who can’t do math, myself included, that’s 179 years! The store on New Oxford Street is a true find — even if you’re not desperately looking for a “swagger stick” with an alligator head or a brolly that turns into a seat.

As expected, Berlin’s flea markets are stocked with all sorts of oddities, including lots of GDR memorabilia. I visited the oldest one on Straße des 17 Juni (translation: 17th of June Street) on a rainy Sunday so most of the stalls were already closed. Still, I found plenty of stuff I had to resist buying:

I didn’t know who Frank Valdor but I had to find out after I spotted this record cover. Apparently, he’s a German lounge legend known as the “King of Dynamic Party Sound.” Certainly looks like he’s getting the party started: The hot pink open shirt is classic.

These vintage lidded beer steins depict similar scenes. The blue and white stein shows a man and a woman cuddling below a tree while being entertained by a sword-carrying musician. The leather stein displays a guitar player having his way with a lady (or beer wench) as she pushes him away.

Not sure about the significance of the years 1985 and 1986. These two plates were probably part of a bigger collection that hung on someone’s wall before the fall of the wall. I love the children in traditional dress — I found similar images on a packet of bacon at a supermarket.

Germany loves its Christmas markets (or Weihnachtsmarkts). We visited at least eight of them on a four-day trip to Berlin. It was unavoidable as the city has over 50 of them. My favorite was at Gendarmenmarkt, a beautiful square flanked by two cathedrals and a concert hall. I managed to have a taste of all the offerings: sausage, raclette, cheese and charcuterie, waffles with chocolate sauce and lots and lots of glühwein. Glühwein is basically German mulled wine. You’ll find several huge vats of the stuff at each market. It keeps visitors warm as they shop for wooden crafts, tree decorations, felt slippers and other goodies.

We couldn’t stay away from Istanbul’s famed Covered Bazaar (or Kapaliçarşi). It’s absolutely massive: With 22 entrances, 58 streets and more than 4,000 shops, many returns are in order. On a seven day trip we visited at least three times. A few of the vendors already recognized our faces. I was known as “Ms. Cheap,” a nickname I earned for my haggling skills. If a vendor asked for 40 Turkish Liras, I offered 15 — sometimes 10 — hoping they’d go as low as 20. Don’t be shy, bargaining is a must here. The trick is not to be afraid to walk away. Just remember to ask for a business card in case you change your mind. Of course, finding that shop again will be a mission. Come prepared with a good map, walking shoes and plenty of cash. And get there early, before the tour buses unload the cruise ship crowds in the afternoon.

You can buy thousands of things at the bazaar: intricate gold jewelry, precious gems, silk carpets, mosaic hanging lamps, colorful pottery, aladdin lamps, waterpipes, bath sponges, bellydancing outfits, long scarves, tea sets and more. It’s a bit overwhelming at first so try to have an idea of what you want to purchase. Also, keep in mind that few things are dirt cheap — luckily there’s an ATM on the premises.

Vendors at the bazaar are mostly young and friendly. They know multiple languages — or at least enough words to make a sale — and are hospitable. They’ll offer you apple tea before you even make a purchase. Ennis (above) served us sandwiches and cokes and Seyki (below) gave us extra change for the bus when we said goodbye — you won’t find that kind of service anywhere else. Some will even offer to show you around town — if they like you enough, of course.