The Truth About Souvenirs
How to find stories and support local crafts and traditions, instead of loading up on trinkets.
In a world of mass-produced replicas, finding an object with a soul requires a clinical eye. I’ve spent two decades tracking down the makers, the weavers, and the keepers of tradition . This is my field-tested guide to how souvenirs can help move you beyond the gift shop and into the heart of a culture.
From Porto’s tiles to Sri Lanka’s masks, here’s how to find pieces that actually matter.
Plus, what to do with them all when you get home.
STAY IN THE LOOP
If you only read three things this week…
-
The Best Luxury Travel Gifts for Him
Struggling to find the best travel gifts for men? Don’t reach for the socks just yet. Behold, 39 great present ideas for men who love to travel. Including links so you can just click and buy, no messing about.
-
The Best Helsinki Souvenirs To Bring Back Home
Looking for the best Helsinki souvenirs and wondering what should be on your shopping list for a trip to Finland? I love the place and love the Finn’s flair for tradition and design. Here’s a list of the best things to buy in Helsinki.
-
The Best Travel Gifts for Couples
A hand chosen collection of the best travel gifts for couples ready for 2024.
-
The 21 Best Souvenir Ideas for 2026
Enjoy this inside guide to the best travel souvenir ideas from all around the world.
-
What to Buy in Ecuador’s Markets and The Stinging Nettle Surprise
Quito’s markets shine a spotlight onto her traditions, customs and the kaleidoscope of daily life. But the Mercado San Francisco near the Old Town has a secret of its own…
-
What to Buy in Italy: The 21 Best Italian Souvenirs
Forget tourist tat. Here’s a collection of fantastic, authentic Italian souvenirs worth buying, including tips on what to look for when you do.
Creative Ideas for Souvenirs
Step beyond the gift shop with this imaginative list of souvenir ideas.
What Happens When You Get Home?
Here’s a collection of tried and tested ideas for how to display souvenirs once you get home.
YOUR TOOLKIT
A deeper way to remember…
A great way to make notes, keep stories and engage all the senses when you travel.
- Flexible formats
- 101 Journal prompts
- The science behind it all
