Robert Zurko, whose Zurko's Midwest Promotions antiques shows and vintage markets are a Chicago tradition, has announced the dates for the 2013 "Jewel of Europe Vintage Market Shopping Trip."  The trip to markets throughout Poland is scheduled for July 24 – August 5. On the agenda are stops at more than seven vintage markets and innumerable antiques shops in four Polish cities.

The tour, now in its fifteenth year, is led by Robert Zurko, who knows the “treasure hunters paradise” that is Poland.  Recently Sakte’s Art Market Research designated Poland as the next contemporary art market to watch.

On the agenda are markets and sights in Warsaw, Krakow, the resort town of Zakopane in the Carpathian Mountains and Gdansk.  While the itinerary is laid out to provide sufficient time in each place, Mr.Zurko states that flexibility can be built-in should buyers want to remain in a city to take advantage of an auction or other event.

Between antiques shops and vintage markets on the tour, the auction houses and the emerging contemporary art scene, this year’s buying trip offers more opportunities then ever to acquire fine art, design and antiques at lower than American prices.

Poland is not on the Euro. Its local currency is the złoty, which converts to about one-third of the USD. As in many emerging countries, the American dollar usually gets the best deal.

In addition to shopping, Zurko's "Jewel of Europe Vintage Market Shopping Trip" introduces travelers to Poland in an unexpected way. Its remarkable history is reflected in a "new" Polish spirit,  art gallery enclaves and, of course,  exceptional museum collections and historic sights.

Shopping excursions are generally held in the mornings, leaveing afternoons and evenings free for group members to enjoy fine restaurants, theater, music festivals and other events.

Among the benefits of shopping Central Europe on the "Jewel of Europe Vintage Market Shopping Trip" is the pack-and-ship service availability that connects purchasers of large items with reliable and trusted shippers who can arrange transit from Poland to the U.S.  Additionally, shoppers have the benefit of Robert Zurko’s familiarity with restrictions that may apply to antiques of Polish National Origin.

Tour group amenities include daily Continental breakfast, local transportation, deluxe motor coach, train and boat excursions. Zurko Productions provides ground accommodations and arrangements.  All transfers are included as is luggage handling between airport and hotel. The tour group is limited to twenty.  Cost of the shopping trip is $1898, double occupancy. The cost of buying the art, design and antiques available in Poland's vintage markets is up to the individuals.  According to Mr. Zurko, "Most people buy enough to cover the cost of the trip."

May 1 is the deadline for reserving a space in the "Jewel of Europe Vintage Market Shopping Trip." Space can be held with a $500 deposit.

A $100 discount coupon that can be applied to the Reservation fee can be found on the website ArtandDesign20.com.  Or menton Discount Code AWMZ, when reserving space.

For more information on Zurko's "Jewel of Europe Vintage Market Shopping Trip," please contact Robert Zurko direct. Phone 715-526-9769 or email zurkoo@frontiernet.net. (Be sure to put Poland Vintage Market Shopping Trip in the subject line.)   A brochure can be downloaded at www.zurkoproductions.com