My most wonderful childhood remembrance is of hunting for mushrooms and wild strawberries with my pals in the woods of northern Italy.<注1> The nearest I get to that experience in my adult years is when I go shopping at a good flea market.<注2>

　　Whether in London, Paris or at a rural antique fair, an addictive adrenaline surge is triggered when I discover an architectural fragment I know can be convertedsintosa headboard, or when I come across an old sea chest that, with some paint and polish, can be made to work as a coffee table.<注3> The only moment that compares—at least in memory—is finding a rare species of wild mushroom.

　　It's important to point out that spotting a beautifully exotic item won't produce that special feeling unless I can instantly envision the new use to which it will be put.<注4>

　　In truth it took quite a while, but I finally learned to practice self-discipline when browsing at flea markets.<注5> For many years I accumulated all sorts of interesting objects and stowed them away for the day when I was sure they're come in handy.<注6> Well, guess what? My closets, basement and attic got more and more cluttered<注7>, but that day never did come.

　　It's that time again: sunny days are upon us, and flea markets and antiques sales wait. Old pieces with great potential abound<注8> —all you have to do is spot them. But wait a moment, I just got something to tell you before you plunge into<注9> it. That will help make your hunt more fruitful. Believe it or not, you'll definitely be inspired.

　　Keep an open mind. You may not come away with the things that were on your list, but that's the beauty of the hunt: you never know what you'll find. If you didn't find a particular item this week, don't despair—chances are you'll find it next time.

　　Know when to walk away. Sometimes playing the cool, uninterested browser will get you a better deal on an item, but don't be too coy.<注10> If you see something you like, buy it—there may not be a second chance on a one-of-a-kind find.

　　Know how to negotiate. Although haggling over a price is part of the experience, an offer that's too low is insulting.<注11> Vendors will often lower the marked price by about 10 per cent. Buying several items from one vendor and giving them regular business will get you a better deal.

　　Know who to buy from. This is a well-kept secret among flea-market gurus<注12>: you're more likely to get a deal on items that aren't part of a vendor's regular supply. Vendors sometimes pick up odd items to add to the mix and may be more willing to part with them for less money.<注13>

　　Have cash on hand. Cash is always the most powerful negotiating tool and best method of payment. Most vendors won't accept cheques or credit cards. Small bills make it easier when you'ree haggling a sale. Markets in rural areas have ATM machines nearby, but field markets usually don't. Be aware that prices often prove more negotiable when vendors learn you'll be paying with cash rather than with a credit card.

　　Anyway, a flea market is an interesting place to visit if you want to buy something or if you want to buy nothing. It consists of an open space filled with individual vendors selling used or almost new merchandise, as well as produce, paintings and crafts. Approach your acquaintances<注14>or public library for the location of the nearest flea market and for the days and hours it is open. Don't be surprised if you find the very thing you have been looking for! You may wish to set up your own table at the flea market if you would like to sell toys, books and items that you no longer use. It will be another kind of pleasure. Now it's your turn to go and find out.