There is a shopaholic deep down in all of us. It is just that some are more equipped to hold back, and save the much needed dollar. I, however, am not one of them. My days off in London Town are spent browsing my regular haunts, be it my favourite second-hand bookstore in Notting Hill, vintage fashion and jewels in Camden or Carnaby St, and Oxford St for when I feel like brainless shopping. So of course I have been screening the stores here in Williamsburg.
Bedford Ave has many a store. Many of them for clothes; vintage, boutique and franchise, oh my! Stalls are set up on the streets that sell books, jewellery and even a shoe or two. But if you walk down the road, I suggest that you turn down North 9th St and peek into Brooklyn Charm, a quaint jewellery store with a difference. When you walk in, instead of being bombarded with their own designs, you are the creator yourself. They have many 
different kinds of chains for bracelets and necklaces, gold, bronze and silver, with big or small links, and depending on the length they range from $6 to $10. Once you choose the one that you like, just browse around and be in awe of the many decorative objects; the typical and expected mixed with the vintage and rare. The charms and amulets and crafty ornaments are priced from a buck to $15. There are baubles for all tastes and quickly I was watching the amiable store girl make my bracelet in front of me. The process depends on your design and you can be particular in placement so the finished piece is exactly what you want.
Brooklyn Charm owner Tracie Howarth whose been making and selling jewellery for over 13 years, says she was inspired by the mix of vintage jewellery and customizing—the two passions came together for her; and she says: “I’ve come to learn that the more customized a piece of jewellery is, the happier the customer is.”
So it’s all getting serious, when it comes to the World Cup. I’m no expert in football (sorry soccer), but I do know some good places in which to watch, chill and be merry while a game is on. My favourite place to watch a game, except my bed, has to be Nita Nita on Wythe Ave. They have a huge projector and comfortable seats. The afternoon games are perfect here as it doesn’t get too rowdy although on a Saturday the pub is brimming with fanatics, whatever the nationality. While the games on, I suggest trying their tapas; they have a great range of snacks such as a cheese board, humus and pita and also salad. The drinks are reasonably priced with a selection of drafts, cocktails and wine. I am in favour of the Belgian White, which is only $3! A pub isn’t a pub without a beer garden and Nita Nita has one that matches the atmosphere of the place inside, so even if you’re not into the game, have a bevy outside and enjoy the sun.