1 Turkey

The Turkish people are the most hospitable people that I've met on my travels; on virtually every street corner I was offered a glass of sweet apple tea or a bite of sticky Turkish delight. Istanbul's world-famous Grand Bazaar definitely deserves its reputation, as it contains the most spectacular collection of stalls selling everything from exquisite handmade leather bags and high-quality cotton and linen, to exotic spices and chintzy souvenirs all at bargain-basement prices. It was at the Grand Bazaar that we recognised that Turkey was the ideal location to buy Egyptian cotton towels, and from here we went on to strike up a close and exclusive relationship with a small supplier. The bustle, noise and touts can get a bit overwhelming and tiring, so for a more relaxed experience, Ortakoy is ideal. Bargaining is still encouraged, but there are no stallholders chasing you down after the slightest glance at their goods. For clothing, leather and rich fabrics the Ortakoy has a fantastic choice and there is plenty of space to peruse at your own leisure.

2 Russia

The changing face of Russia over the 20th century is one of the most penetrating traits of Moscow, with ancient monasteries muddled in among tower blocks and shopping centres.

This eclectic history is reflected in the shopping. There's an impressively wide range of goods available. Watches, cameras, wines and spirits, furs, ceramics and glass, jewellery, traditional toys and military regalia may be bought in both Moscow and St Petersburg. But beware of paying over the odds in large department stores such as GUM on Red Square in Moscow. A good strategy is to choose your glassware in one of the large department stores, and then buy them in a smaller, less centrally located shop.

The Vernisazh Market held in Moscow's Izmaylovsky Park is a great place to snap up bargains. This weekly event is getting rather commercial, however it is a fantastic marketplace to shop and I found everything typically Russian for sale here.

3 Thailand

Thailand is a real treasure-trove when it comes to great antiques, bargains and the like. In Bangkok, the bustling, cosmopolitan capital, try going to Naga House, 315 Soi Ongkarak, Soi Samsen 28 to find the best teak furniture around. If you're looking for something more rustic and charming, trying buying your handicrafts in wood, metal and ceramics in the Amarin Plaza, Gaysorn Plaza or the River City Grandeur shopping complex. Fabulous jewellery is another big attraction for travellers to Bangkok and this can be found on the Sukhumvit Road, near Soi 14.

Thai silks are a major draw, regardless of where you are in Thailand. Locals will be happy to give you tips on the best places to buy, so hunt around for the best value.

4 India

For India's best silks, I like to go to Bangalore, located in the south of India, or to Varanasi, the holy city on the banks of the Ganges also known as 'Kashi'. The silk Jacquards here are second to none and when they're brought home they are immediately evocative and create the perfect talking point.

In the ever-changing and beguiling capital, Delhi, there is a huge selection of markets and Chandni Chowk is one of my favourites. It was built by the Moghuls and is the main street leading from the historic Red Fort to the Fatehpuri Mosque. Literally translated it means 'moonlight square' and it was the main bazaar where the Royal women from the court of the Moghuls used to shop. Nowadays, you can buy some excellent jewellery and silverware. Beads, sequins, buttons, ribbons and threads are also sold here. Dilli Haat is a craft bazaar where artisans from all over India are given a chance to sell their wares directly to consumers.

5 Isle of Arran

Whilst the Isle of Arran is more famous for its stunning, mountainous interior and Robbie Burns than for its homewares, there are still some great bargains to pick up. The antiques centre at Dalgaren Mills is a particular favourite of mine, and great for historical bits and pieces from the locality.

6 Ecuador

The main port of Guayaquil is the entry point for most of the travellers to this exotic country. In the Santa Elena Peninsula nearby, I found lots of artisinal workshops specialising in centuries-old tradition of making Panama hats, all of the highest quality.

Following the Via del Pacifico towards Puerto Lopez leads you through many diverse communities centred on the fishing industry and upon arrival in Montecristi, the world capital of the Panama hat, you will be able to see the finished article in all its glory. Both the Montecristi and the Fino varieties are reputed to be the best in the whole world.

7 Provence

Following centuries of poverty, the Provencal villages have been transformed into beautiful and exclusive communities, with cottage and farmhouse industries providing much employment in the region. Everything has an almost timeless quality here, as products have been made the same way for centuries and there is a continued desire to retain traditional methods in manufacture.

Provence is a haven for traditionally produced cheese, oils, herbs, preserves and other household products such as hand-carved utensils and natural vegetable soaps. In practically every village you will be able to source these traditional products at a fraction of the price in the Parisian department stores.

8 China

Shanghai and Huangzou are the main textile centres in China and you can pick up some amazing handmade items here with no problem at all. Chinese expertise in weaving in these two cities is second to none and the high quality of the jacquards and raised velvet floks are testament to this.

My favourite place is the Longshen Market in the Guangdong Province is a must-see, and it forms part one of the lesser-known areas for fabrics, specialising in great textiles and leather goods too. In addition to this, Hou Jie market has everything you could ever need, but it'll take a fair few hours to explore all its excellent stalls.

9 Italy

Italy's unrivalled reputation for high fashion and exquisite designers drove us to visit Italy. Home to the Milan Furniture Show, probably the most influential furniture show in the industry, Italy is one of the most innovative and fashion-driven countries in the world. In addition to their expertise in design, Italian leather is widely renowned as the finest quality available. Italy is another country with treasure-laden villages and cities. One such oasis is Alessandria, situated between Parma and Torino. This bustling market town is overflowing with an eclectic mix accessories and furnishings.

10 Morocco

Morocco, more specifically Marrakech, is a mecca for shopping. The streets and alleys in the city centre are filled with hundreds of shops, known as souks, selling everything from rugs and carpets, leather goods and linens to silver jewellery and ceramic pots.

I found the specialised quarters of the souks the best place to shop. Although the most colourful is the Souk des Teinturiers or dyers' souk, which is packed with drying sheafs of coloured wool, it is at the Criée Berbère, the centre of the carpet and rug trade, where I found some fantastic bargains on exquisite products.

As well as products for the home, this country has the most awesome selection of knick-knacks and souvenirs. I have returned from my travels with a tagine, three leather bags, countless pairs of earrings, and a few brass ornaments.

The Moroccan people are really friendly and welcoming but don't be afraid to barter the prices down.

· Kate Hardcastle is the general manager of Halo Living (0845 850 4256) which launched this month.