One of the great pleasures of visiting enchanting new places such is the chance to pick up some of the local products. And whether as keepsakes, souvenirs or just clothes or
jewellery to wear, Fremantle has a range of inimitable items ranging from opals to chocolate. Here's a look at the Fremantle shopping scene.

Fremantle has its High Street shopping scene with Essex Street, Market Street, and High Street all offering fine shopping options. Fremantle is home to the usual big department stores located around the malls and King's Square. They are the places to pick up brand name cosmetics and designer fashions. But to really experience shopping here you have to head for the specialist shops and markets you can find around every corner.

First stop, get hold of some baubles to adorn your body. In Australia this means opals and pearls. Local opal shops buy directly from the miners and so prices are very competitive. They also create jewellery either with their own distinctive designs or to your specifications. Items in sterling Silver, and nine carat, 14 carat and 18 carat gold are available.

South Sea and freshwater pearls are another Perth speciality. Australian South Sea pearls are farmed in the waters off the northern Kimberley and Northern Territory coasts. They are considered the most beautiful and lustrous pearls in the world.

Another of Perth's shopping delights is chocolate particularly the handcrafted chocolates produced by the Fremantle Chocolate Factory. You can visit for complementary chocolate and fudge tasting and watch the craftsmen at work making the chocolates. Among the offerings are truffles, pralines, chocolate bars, and novelty chocolates.

Aboriginal Art and Crafts are another great Fremantle purchase. These include original paintings and ceramics, wooden carvings and masks, along with items such as boomerangs, didgeridoos.

And finally, no visit to Fremantle would be complete without a visit to the city's many markets. Fremantle Markets on South Terrace is the most venerable institution offering everything from fresh fruit to jewellery and local handicrafts. Visiting the Fremantle Markets is as much a cultural as a shopping experience, offering a rare and magical glimpse into Fremantle heritage.

Another gem of a market is the E Shed Markets in Victoria Quay. It date back to 1897 and was restored in 1975. Overlooking Fremantle wharf, this grand Victorian building features over 150 outlets selling everything from furniture, prints, pottery, antiques and old books, to seafood, cheeses, herbs, and spices.

E Shed Markets also features musical performances and magic shows and other amusements including rides for the kids. You can also get a massage or a hairdo here.

It also houses the E Shed Food Court and many cafes. You can get everything from Aussie tucker to Japanese and Indian cuisines, ice cream and fruit juices.

Fremantle is a shopper's paradise and also offers a fine range of accommodation. Among the best Fremantle hotels are the Quest Harbour Village Perth and the Tradewinds Hotel Fremantle.

Richard Greaves has over 20 years experience in the travel industry and writes for Cheaper than Hotels. Cheaper Than Hotels offers Fremantle hotels as Quest Harbour Village Perth and Tradewinds Hotel Fremantle http://www.cheaperthanhotels.com.au/Australia/Perth/Fremantle/Tradewinds-Hotel-Fremantle/.