연락처 : EQ 이메일 : mickiequan@yahoo.com If there's one spot in London where retro style spills out onto the street it's Portobello Road. This infamous street, which is located in the center of Notting Hill is more than an attractive backdrop for Hugh Grant films. It's an oasis for those who appreciate antique treasures and special gifts.

Saturdays are when the streets are alive. The market is an adventure in search of treasure. The air is suffused with chatter and the smell of freshly baked pastries from the bakeries. I always start at the antique section which is where stalls sparkle with silverware, antique clocks, and old jewellery. They're not just objectsthey're historical objects that you can take in the palm of your hand.

The stalls in the retro era are a treasure trove for curious gift-buyers. You may find an Art Deco tea set next to a stack of vinyl records from the 1970s, or a battered leather luggage waiting for its next adventure. I've discovered old typewriters which still function perfectly, as well as a tin toy that will make everyone's eyes sparkle.

What I love about Portobello Road is the personality in each purchase. Many traders are collectors who love to share the stories behind their items. This type of history makes the gift more personal.

There's more than just antiques. There are many independent shops that sell recycled vintage items - old fabrics that are transformed into cushions, reclaimed wooden jewellery boxes and retro wall prints that have been remastered. It's a place where nostalgia meets creativity, and it's perfect to find a gift that's unique and stylish.

Take your time if going to Portobello to shop for gifts. Take your time and stop for a coffee in one of the tiny cafes, and keep your eyes open. The best finds are often found when you're not in a hurry. And when you leave you'll find something in your bag that isn't available in the department store -- something with a soul, a story, and perhaps a touch of London magic.