The wonderful world of Bijoux Terner

Stuck at the airport? That might not be as awful as you're thinking. Mixed in with all the over-priced souvenir stands and food courts, you may just find one of the best bargain shopping spots out there--Bijoux Terner (or, as my sister and I call it, the $10 store).

They carry nothing but accessories, handbags and jewelry, and if you've never wandered into one of their boutiques before, you'll be amazed at the variety. Watches, costume jewelry (both funky and formal), pashminas, scarves, purses large and small, casual and dressy, wallets, and even some men's items--ties, men's watches, wallets, etc. Once in awhile they'll have a corner devoted to items for the home--coffee sets, sushi sets, throws. And everything is a flat price of $10.

The quality for price is surprisingly good, too. I have a couple of Bijoux Terner purses I've been using for 4-5 years now, and they're still holding up nicely. Same for a pashmina or three. It's one of those rare places where you can go nuts loading up on goodies, and still not do too much damage to your bank account.

According to their corporate history, this is how the company evolved:

Established in the early 1970s, Bijoux Terner dedicated itself to creating elegant and luxurious accessories for the fashionable woman. Inspired by the high-end fashion trends around the world, Bijoux Terner became a trendsetter associated with sophistication, stylishness, and quality.

Their company listing says they now have more than 500 boutiques in 60 countries around the world, and if you've wandered through any sizable airport terminals lately, you've probably seen one of their stores. They've also set up shop in resorts, on cruise ships and at casinos--my mom often shops the boutique in the Beau Rivage casino in Biloxi, Mississippi (and she sometimes sends me Bijoux Terner care packages--go, mom!).

It's a great place to shop for yourself, or to dash through between flights and pick up a gift to tuck way for holidays or birthdays. The next time you find yourself stuck on a long layover, take a stroll around the terminal--if you're lucky, you'll find a Bijoux Terner boutique to while away the hours.