Top Rated Shopping in Tampa/St. Petersburg

Once you have observed the crazy tiled floor and the cozy decor, you'll discover the treasures of this old-fashioned store. Word lovers have the chance to access a very rich selection of books here, with various subjects such as fiction, travel, science and medicine, cuisine, history, business or biography. The goal? To increase customer's passion for reading! If you like enjoying a cup of local tea or artisanal coffee while reading, you'll find what you need: the Oxford Exchange also carries an amazing selection of those, to be enjoyed perched on a bar stool or comfortably reclined in a deep armchair.

Boasting 1.26 million square feet on two levels, over 200 specialty shops, 15 full service restaurants, and a luxurious four diamond hotel, this mall has something for even the most refined tastes. Its anchor's include such landmarks as Nordstrom's, Neiman Marcus, Dillard's, and Robb & Stucky Interiors. If all this shopping starts to overload your feet, and your purse, they offer a sunny, 125,000 square foot outdoor plaza to relax in before venturing back into the fray. In addition they offer excellent packages, that include hotel accommodations, relaxing amenities, and special savings.

Cleanse Apothecary, located in historic Old Seminole Heights, is a locally owned boutique specializing in high-end natural beauty products from the world's top niche labels. The pet-friendly shop even stocks products for your pet. Browse the hand-chosen selection of beauty products, soaps, lotions, candles, and home fragrances from brands like Jardins de Provence, Thymes, Caldrea, and The Art of Shaving. The owners are usually in the store and offer helpful advice to suit your taste.

St. Petersburg's Saturday morning market has been going strong since its inception in 2002. Taking over the downtown area every Saturday morning from 9a to 2p, this lively gathering features live music, mouth-watering food and a variety of vendors selling their wares. Find fresh eggs and goat cheese from a nearby farm or Cajun spices and handmade crafts made by a locals. A great family activity, the market also features kid-friendly events. Check the website for more information about vendors and upcoming music acts and events.

It is a known fact that the right oil, vinegar or spice can do wonders to a simple dish. Joe and Son's Olive Oils is a gourmet food shop where they stock a unique blend of olive oils, pestos, sauces, balsamic vinegars and more. These include Blood Orange Olive Oil, Wild Mushroom and Sage Olive Oil, and Roasted Walnut and Truffle Oil. They also have organic oils and skincare products in their inventory. The rustic setting of this store adds to its charm. If you get flummoxed, their expert staff will guide you through to find your perfect pick. You can also sample them before making a purchase.

The perfect spot for a cup of freshly brewed tea, cup of iced coffee and a fresh muffin while perusing shelves stocked with books, DVDs, posters, CDs and vintage vinyl is Mojo Books and Music. Located near the campus of the University of South Florida, the shop is a hub for students, locals, and anyone interested in selling, trading, and buying items. With an impressive inventory of new and used audio and visual entertainment, Mojo provides customers with more opportunities to find an elusive CD, rare book, vintage poster or vinyl collectables. - Vickie Ferguson