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There are many and varied shops in Bergen centre. Bergen has three exciting pedestrian shopping streets -- Strandgaten Torgalmenningen and Marken. The main square, Torgalmenningen, is dominated by a relatively large shopping complex called Galleriet. It is the Norwegian version of the American enclosed shopping mall. Stores generally close early except for malls like Galleriet, Bystasjonen, Oasen and Lagunen. Most towns and resorts have a shop where typical Norwegian handicrafts are on sale. Silversmiths and potteries are numerous and worth visiting. Traditional items include furs, printed textiles, woven articles, knitwear, woodcarving, silver, enamel, pewter, glass and porcelain. Tax-free cheques can be obtained from any of the 2500 shops carrying the sticker 'Tax free for tourists'. These shops save visitors 11 to 18 per cent of the price paid by residents. VAT refunds are paid in cash at airports, ferries, cruise ships and border crossings. |
