by Claudia Bordo

Ok, so the weather outside is no longer frightful, but shopping is still delightful.

So get out of bed, you shopaholics, get out in the crisp fresh air and check out these fine shops. Chestnut Hill shops like these need you! 1. CW Journeys: Traveling to exotic places and experiencing different cultures is a great adventure and a huge opportunity for growth.

At CW Journeys, owners Charlie Weston and his wife, Aliki, are seasoned travelers, well equipped to advise their clients. They specialize in trips to Europe, Africa, the Antarctic and the Galapagos Islands. Cruising is always a great way to vacation. All you can eat, fun destinations, nightly entertainment and the whole time you're being gently rocked. CW Journeys won awards from Conde Nast in 2003 and 2004. For a customdesigned trip, brochures, questions or advice, stop in and see Charlie and Aliki at 8431 Germantown Ave, Monday to Friday, 10 to 5 p.m., or make an appointment. 215-242-4242, Charlie@yourtrip.com

2. Delphine Gallery: This elegant shop in the heart of the Hill is owned by two very talented ladies.

Vickie Spangler is a gemologist, and Deborah Weiner's specialty is stones. Both are jewelry appraisers.

Together they have over 50 years experience. At Delphine Gallery you will find beautiful estate and designer jewelry, including pins, rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

They have exquisitely enameled crystal trinket boxes and hand-etched wine glasses. Vicki and Debbie also feature the fabulous art work of water colorist Sara Steele. Let them evaluate your gold, as these ladies have built a trust with the community and have many loyal customers. Stop in and browse here, you will be impressed.

8435 Germantown Ave., 215-248-3855, www.delphinegallery.net 3. The Philadelphia Print Shop: This amazing shop is a gem in our neighborhood. On the Hill for 27 years, owners Don Cresswell and Chris Lane share a passion and love for their work. They participate in 16 major antique shows each year, and Don has been an appraiser on Antiques Roadshow for the last 11 years. Their collection consists of over 20,000 antique maps and prints including illustrations of flora and fauna beautifully rendered and often hand-colored by famous European and American artists. These aesthetic images are produced by lithography, etching and mezzotint and are notable for their visual delight and historic value. Also available here are book binding, paper conservation, old travel posters and even cool ties with maps of Philadelphia, or of the world. Whether you're a collector or looking for a distinctive gift or just curious, you will find this place fun and fascinating. Hurry in to 8441 G!

ermantown Ave., 215-242-4750, www.philaprintshop.com 4. George T. Hobe: This place is so interesting because owner George Hobe has filled it with fabulous antiques and 18th, 19th and 20th century paintings. You can find toy soldiers made from lead, beaded antique handbags, figurines, lamps, tables and skillfully crafted pottery from 1880 to 1930 and much more. George finds some of his treasures at local estates, and two or three times a year he goes to Paris to shop. Buying antiques in a wonderful investment. Even if you're not an antique lover, you will still find George and his shop delightful. Stop in and browse, and you'll see what I mean. 8407 Germantown Ave., 215-247-5733.