For a truly global marketplace, stop in at NOVICA. This innovative shopping experience partners with National Geographic to feature home décor, jewelry, apparel, and artwork by some 2,000 artists from the Andes, Bali and Java, Brazil, India, Mexico, Thailand and West Africa. With its online distribution model, NOVICA removes layers of middle men and their markups, allowing the artisans to make more money while customers get lower prices. NOVICA wants shoppers to know the artisans behind the product, stating, “We want you to feel that attachment to the product and to the hands that created it.” With that in mind, every item includes a profile of the artist. You can read his or her personal story, “save” him to your favorite artists list and search for more of his works. For instance, we found this exquisite hand-tooled mahogany and leather table designed by Peruvian craftsman Abel Rios ($178); when you click on his other items, a list of 60-plus pieces — including jewelry boxes, chairs, ottomans, and more — comes up. Create your own virtual bazaar by starting an account to keep track of your favorite items, whether it’s this striped alpaca wool shawl ($66) or the striking “White Torch” photograph ($130); you can even send photos or painting as e-cards. If you’re in the market for something unique for a special someone, try the GiftFinder for ideas, such as these bright bamboo boxes ($105) by Wayan Genep from Bali as a corporate gift. But our favorite NOVICA market is the GiftAnimals section, with everything from the silver Elephant Parade cuff bracelet ($118) and this charming Playful Cat key holder ($45) to this whimsical “Zebra as Acrobat” sculpture ($273; pictured) and an array of animal masks. Now, that puts the world at your fingertips!