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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The Best Italian Gifts for People Who Love Italy
What do you buy for someone who loves Italy? Why Italian themed gifts, of course!
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Why a Travel Photo Book Makes the Perfect Gift for People Who Love Travel
Discover why a travel photo book is the perfect gift to capture memories, relive adventures and inspire wanderlust.
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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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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…
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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.
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
