Because so much in the U.S. is mass-produced, there is a large quantity of goods available at relatively low prices for everyone. You will find a tremendous range in cost and variation based on quality, style, areas of the country and other factors. Comparative price shopping is a good idea before you buy any major items. The Tampa Bay area consists of Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Safety Harbor, Dunedin, Largo, Seminole, Palm Harbor, Pinellas Park, Oldsmar and Tarpon Springs.
THE CAMPUS BOOKSTORE
The bookstore is located on campus to provide your required books and supplies. Hours of operation are posted on the front of the store. Your textbooks can be purchased there (new and sometimes secondhand), and most of your used textbooks may, of course, be sold there. The bookstore also sells stationery and art supplies, candy, and some clothing such as T-shirts, sweatshirts and miscellaneous items.
DOWNTOWN AND OTHER SHOPPING CENTERS
The Tampa Bay area, like all large cities, offers numerous shopping venues. However, the presence of businesses and offices, the bustle, and traffic make shopping a bit hectic – especially if you’re driving. More leisurely shopping can be accomplished in shopping centers. Shopping centers offer a variety of shops, restaurants, movie theaters and services, such as medical, real estate and travel offices, with ample parking space available and easy access from several entrances. Generally, stores in these centers include a supermarket, drugstore, department store and other specialty shops. Most stores are open in the evenings and on weekends.
DRUGSTORES (PHARMACIES)
Drugstores will fill your doctor’s prescriptions and you can purchase over-the-counter remedies. You also can find a variety of other items such as magazines, candy, toiletries and cosmetics, newspapers, film, etc. Most drugstores are open Saturdays and Sundays, as well as weekdays.
The United States is a paradise for shoppers. Here is a description of the main categories.
To help international students not familiar with U.S. sizes when shopping for clothing and shoes, a comparison with European sizes is provided in the International Student Handbook. Contact the International Student Services staff on your campus for a copy.
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