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…
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How to Display Souvenirs at Home (Beyond Fridge Magnets and Snow Globes)
Looking for ideas on how to display souvenirs at home? Let these ideas spark your creativity.
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25 Best Irish Souvenirs: What to Buy in Ireland
Here’s your perfect guide to what to buy in Ireland, from the hand-crafted and beautiful to the kitsch and kinda cute. Roll up for this inside list on the best souvenirs in Ireland.
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The Best Turkish Souvenirs: What to Buy in Istanbul
Find the best Turkish souvenirs to bring home without wasting any space in your suitcase.
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The Best Souvenirs from Porto
Know exactly what to bring home from Porto with our tried and tested Porto souvenir guide.
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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.
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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.
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