For five years, this colorful store inside the Williams Business Centre has provided locals and visitors with things they never knew they needed, such as ceramic pigs painted in colors that customers may pick from the store's design collection. Each painted pig will take on a personality of its own. As if that was not enough, the shop also offers adult gift items such as ceramic envelopes, which are in fact mail holders, and sports clocks. There's a lot more of that kind of useful stuff. You just have to come and see for yourself.

This is certainly one of the leading cigar stores in the Southwest, and it's not just a good place to buy them, but actually one of the best places to smoke them. A recent Tucson city ordinance generally forbids smoking in restaurants and cafes, leaving few places for dedicated smokers to indulge their vices. After perusing a wide variety of premium cigars, pipe tobaccos and accessories, connoisseurs may relax in one of the plush lounge chairs, savor their cigars, sip espressos and exchange notes with other tobacco aficionados. What else can you ask for?

This clothing store has been an institution in Tucson for 44 years. It only carries the finest in apparel for men and women, and doesn't make any compromises. All the big names in European and American haute couture design are represented here. Don't look for the latest fad in teenage clothing here, and leave the kids outside unless you can be sure they won't touch any of the merchandise; the sales staff is really particular about that. The ambiance reflects its philosophy: subdued elegance, classy conservative interior design.

Marshall's has been Tucson's leading full-service jeweler for more than 30 years, and if you're searching for that very special present for that special person, you'll be well advised to look here first. Diamonds are cut in accordance with ideal cutting proportions; grading guarantees are given for all precious stones sold; and a knowledgeable staff will take all the time it takes to answer all your questions. The store at the Crossroads Festival plaza just exudes elegance and style, and, of course, all the big names in watch and jewelry design such as Rolex and Cartier are present.

Located in the Plaza Palomino courtyard, arguably the most beautiful shopping area in Tucson, this little store offers a line of womens' apparel that is definitely off-center, mainly a collection of colorful fashion T-shirts. Great as gifts! Check out those garments featuring prints by painter Michael Leu. Lindi also features an array of gifts and souvenir items crafted by local artists, mostly ceramic works in bright colors. Shipping is available.

This store at the Plaza Palomino courtyard offers a variety of womens' apparel well suited for Tucson's casual lifestyle. Other than clothes, there is also a limited selection of handbags, scarves, shoes, jewelry and other accessories, including the Moda-Spana line of elegant womens' shoes, plus assorted gift items and cards. Prices are very reasonable, and browsing is simply delightful in this light and airy space.

This neat little shop in the El Mercado shopping plaza offers more than flowers. Owner Georgeanne Timbres makes a point of supporting local artists, selling their paintings and ceramic works on top of a wide array of flowers, plants, and cacti from the surrounding Sonoran desert. One of her featured artists is Tucson sculptor Paul Gaudette. She also designs for special occasions and parties and frequently provides flower designs for weddings at one of Tucson's famous resort hotels.

Dinnerware, serving pieces, glassware, candles, and other such things that always make good candidates for wedding gifts, is what you'll find at this neat store on Tucson's east side. Most of the products are imported from Europe, but there is a good share of work from local artists on display here, too. Many gift items here would make for appropriate souvenirs, such as pottery and jewelry with a Southwestern tinge. Just come in and browse.

It's a big chain store, which some people might find objectionable, but it certainly attracts many customers by the sheer size of its stock and convenience to shoppers, not to mention the many discounts. There is an abundance of magazines and a large CD section with listening stations to sample music. Coffee drinks and pastries are another attraction here. These treats are bought and consumed in the bright, spacious Starbucks on the premises. Overall, this spot is a popular place for both locals and visitors to hang out, read, meet, chat, and, occasionally, listen to live performances by local musicians.

This new independent bookstore on Speedway has recently taken over the place 'The Bookmark', which shut down recently. The new business is holding its own among the big chains, in fact, it has become rather successful due to its focus on local authors and events. There is an impressive array of books on the Southwest and Native American themes, both fiction and non-fiction including some great picture books. Note that you may not only browse at your heart's delight but you may also bring in your coffee from the cafe next door!