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 Travel Gifts for Couples
A hand chosen collection of the best travel gifts for couples ready for 2024.
-
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.
-
Portuguese Ceramics: Your Guide to Authentic Handmade Portuguese Pottery
Today’s Portuguese ceramics represent the crossroads of history. And make for a good salad dish, too. Here’s what to know before you buy.
-
-
The Best Souvenirs from France to Bring Home and Fall in Love With
Enjoy this guide to the best French souvenirs and make sure you bring back the perfect gift and memory from France.
-
What to Buy in Seville: The 9 Best Seville Souvenirs to Bring Home
Everything you need to know about shopping in Seville, including where to buy authentic Seville souvenirs
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
