Feb. 11--LONG ISLAND -- long known for produce, wines, beautiful beaches and seafood -- also is a great place to find international clothing, furnishings and food. You can thank the Island's large international and immigrant population. But it isn't always easy to know where to go. Here's a sampling of area spots worth checking out.

INDIAN

Lux Me

525 Broadway Mall, Hicksville

PHONE 516-935-2738

WEB lux-me.info

WHY Even if you're still perfecting your double-dribble basketball move a la "Slumdog Millionaire," you can look the part. Ninety percent of the products in Lux Me are from India. In addition to wonderful, chunky jewelry that is expected to be popular this year, you'll see a vast array of colorful scarves and accessories -- you can even find dresses and other items used in belly dancing.

ALSO TRY Elsewhere in Hicksville, women can commission custom East-West shirts ($30-$80) and dresses ($75-$500) from colorful silk and blended fabrics at Aanchal Boutique. "It is very Hollywood meets Bollywood," says owner Harry Singh (351 S. Broadway, 516-433-7670).

ASIAN

White Lotus

32-34 Gerard St., Huntington

PHONE 631-424-0028

WHY Whether you're looking to get your chi at optimum levels, or you just like things from the Far East, the recently opened White Lotus has you covered. "We only have one or two of something," manager Janney Chun says. Besides being a virtual candy store for feng shui enthusiasts with its money frogs, lucky cats and jade, White Lotus offers incense burners and other ceremonial objects, furniture, jewelry and home accessories.

AFRICAN

Artfully Yours

280 Fulton Ave., Hempstead

PHONE 516-292-0016

WHY Owner Shelley Brazley has a large selection of Afrocentric and African-American art and gift items -- from hard-to-find Celeste vase heads to the Rosebud collection of miniature hats to Annie Lee figurines. She also offers DIY classes and activities for customers.

LATIN AMERICAN

Noemy's Varieties

65 S. Main St., Freeport

PHONE 516-867-2386

WHY Owners Jose and Noemy Escobar have an impressive selection of boots and leather goods from Mexico and other Latin American countries. They offer an assortment of leathers -- from cow to ostrich to alligator to fish. Yes, fish leather.

FOR MORE

Haitian Book Center

P.O. Box 258

Uniondale, NY 11553

PHONE 516-538-5899

WEB haitianbookcenter.com

If you are interested in reading about all things Haitian, this online spot is a good bet. In addition to books on history, culture and cuisine, you can read works from some of the country's top authors. You also can purchase CDs, DVDs and other items from Haiti. Titles available in English and French.

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