There are a few things you should know to make your shopping experience better at IKEA. In no specific order they are:
* under no circumstance should you visit this store on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Crowds are unbearable. Shop on a Monday or Tuesday when it's so quiet you could hear a pin drop
* bring the little ones as there's a playroom where you can drop them and then you can shop at your leisure (either here or elsewhere)
* there are some terrific ideas to be had while walking through the place (who knew Swedes could be so brilliant at design).
* take the shortcuts when you can. Walking through the entire store is quite the chore...if you know what you want, make a bee line for it (this rule only applies if you've visited the store more than once)
* best place to purchase picture frames, candles, furnish a dorm room, get kitchen stuff
* large, blue over the shoulder shopping bags go with any ensemble
* best place for a cheap Swedish meatball fix
* the no hassle return policy is brilliant
* Ice cream cones for a $1
* relatives who do not have an IKEA where they live will be entertained for hours when they walk through the doors...much cheaper than Wonderland !
* self check out is easy
* staff are friendly and helpful
* ample parking