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Buying Local: Understand the Pros and Cons of Striving to Purchase your Goods Locally

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Buying local is touted as the best way to be environmentally friendly while supporting local communities at the same time. By purchasing food and other goods that are produced locally, consumers help stimulate their regional economy, help create and retain valuable jobs, supports families and strengthen community and culture. Understanding the strengths, limitations and potential pitfalls of local consumption is key to making the most of the trend.

Generations ago, the only option people really had for shopping was to buy local. Our great grandparents ate vegetables grown in their gardens and bought clothing, tools, and other goods handmade in their own town. Today’s globalized market fulfills our every whim by delivering goods that are either unavailable in our own communities or are cheaper to buy elsewhere.

This luxury to get anything anywhere is a testament to human ingenuity, but it also bears environmental and social consequences. In today’s economically turbulent and environmentally unfriendly times, many consumers choose to shop only within their own town or state. Community resilience and environmental integrity are at the heart of the “buy local” movement. It also offers businesses a special opportunity to support other fellow businesses within their own community. Certainly there are many advantages to buying local. However, the concept is not without its potential disadvantages.

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Buying Local: The Advantages

Often touted as the best way to be environmentally friendly and support your community, buying local means just that – purchasing items grown or manufactured near your home (in your city or state). By purchasing food and other goods that are produced locally you stimulate the economy in which you live. Jobs are created or retained, the community gains revenue, families and cultures are supported, and things thrive and grow.

Purchasing locally also means that you know a bit more about quality control; you know that certain goods have been produced in a way that meets stringent regional and national standards. When purchasing goods from out of the country it can be difficult to know the manufacturing processes and potentially harmful chemicals and byproducts involved.

Further, sourcing locally reduces the transportation costs associated with your goods. Certainly it takes less gas, and thus puts fewer greenhouse emissions into the air, to drive a bushel of apples from town to town than across the nation or globe. Local items are also more likely to be fresh compared to items that are transported long distances.

Buying locally also presents a special networking opportunity among businesses. Choosing to buy from other businesses within your community can lead to new connections, special discounts, and the chance to collaborate and support one another’s brands.

Connecting with Your Community

For businesses wondering where to start, there are several networking platforms that make buying and selling locally easy. Online marketplaces such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are great places to find new and used goods (extra green points for buying second hand!). With over 9 million members around the world, The Freecycle Network is a source for getting and giving free, secondhand items. At no cost, simply type in your city in the search bar to find Freecycle groups in your area and a list of offered and wanted items.

Nextdoor , a platform that connects you with residents and businesses within your zip code, is an effective way to engage with neighbors and stay up to date on local deals. In addition to a personal account, Nextdoor also provides a business profile option for you to promote your goods and services.

Strictly-business apps such as Common Connect and Bizzabo allow users to connect with local professionals across all industries and optimize networking events such as conferences and trade shows.

Think Responsibly When Buying Local

It might be surprising to read, but buying local does actually have some possible disadvantages. First it is important to understand that just because something is locally produced does not mean that it is environmentally friendly. If supplies or equipment have to be shipped in to create the product, then that can offset any benefit of creating or growing the product locally.

Energy and efficiency can be concerns as well, leading to more disadvantages to local business. Specifically, some areas of the country have more developed alternative energy sources, such as wind power and solar power. Local farms and manufacturers cannot always take advantage of this green energy, but other producers may be able to, thus making their products more green. Additionally, larger operations with bigger budgets can function more effectively, adding to their greenness over small, local farms.

Buying locally can be a great way to encourage small business and promote economic growth in our own communities. However, buying locally is not always the perfect solution; it is not even always the greenest solution. Think responsibly before you make the decision!

Shopping Green in a Complicated Economic Environment

With ongoing concerns over climate change and how its long-term impact could alter life as we know it, there is no doubt that the global economy will change as well. The recent COVID-19 outbreak is a prime example of how a global crisis can shape market conditions and consumer buying habits (remember panic buying?) The imperative question is: Can buying locally save small businesses during such times of economic flux? To answer this, it is necessary to understand how a crisis shapes the business landscape and what this could mean for you and your stakeholders. Find out how your business can become more resilient in a complicated economic environment here .

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Are you tired of shopping in a crowded Walmart where everyone is literally rushed, the produce is shipped in from who knows where, and natural, cruelty-free products are few and far between? If so, then give shopping locally a shot!

Finding out where your local service and food businesses and farmers’ markets are located in your area is only a click away online. If you are not enirely sure why buying locally is important, please check out this handy list. Does your family not understand why you only want to buy your food from farmers’ markets or buy homemade soap from your neighbors? This list would be for them too.

1. Fresher food is available at your local market.

A lot of the time, the food at the farmers’ market comes directly from that specific farmer and was picked within the week! Talk about your food being super fresh compared to the store-bought food, where who knows how long the transportation time was from the farm to the store (and it probably had a stop or two in between). There is only one way to get your produce fresher than the farmers’ market: by driving to a local farm that offers a pick-your-own program! Picking your own strawberries, peaches, blueberries, and more is a great way to become more grounded in the earth and get connected with your food!

2. There is way less packaging involved.

According to scientists, in 2010, around eight million tons of plastic trash ended up in the ocean. What is even worse is that the number is expected to increase tenfold over the next decade! Plastic is a global issue, and it can be easily combatted by choosing reusable over plastic. If you choose to buy locally, most of the items being sold have limited packaging. Bring your own reusable bags, and you should be good! Even better, choose to shop local, ditch plastic, and join One Green Planet’s #CrushPlastic movement.

3. Buying local helps the local economy.

When you buy local, it stays local. More jobs will be created in your town, the community will prosper, and people will be more connected than ever to their own town. Your money helps businesses local to you, as well as your neighbors, hence reason number four.

4. Buying local helps Support your neighbors.

Whether you are buying a product from the farmers’ market or using a local service business, you are not only supporting the local economy but also supporting your neighbors. The farmer down the road, the mechanic that owns the local automotive repair shop, or the woman that sells her homemade skincare and bath products, appreciate their customers so much more. Why? Not only do they get to meet you, a person who uses their products face to face, but your Support helps them and their businesses survive. You help feed their families, pay their bills, and put a roof over their family’s heads. It is a huge deal to buy locally for this reason alone.

5. You know where your food comes from if you buy it at the market.

This is often something that not enough people consider. How is your food produced? What types of pesticides or herbicides are being used on your produce? Does the farmer use any form of permaculture? Does that natural body butter contain ingredients that use palm oil? This reason only really applies to farmers’ markets, but you and everyone else have the right to know where the food is coming from. This connects you to your food and allows you to make healthier choices for yourself.

6. Buying local is actually better for the planet.

Not only does shopping or buying locally from the farmers’ market or other local markets reduce waste from packaging, but it also reduces the use of fossil fuels. Food miles not only consume energy but they contribute to poor air quality, and you will be served older food, which could have effects on your health.

7. The experience is way more fun.

Going to the grocery store would not seem like the most ideal place to have a good time. At least, I don’t think so. When you go to the farmers’ market or local indoor natural market, a lot of times you will see smiling faces, hear live music, eat awesome food, and get locally-grown, fresh food for a steal. There are also some farms, known as “pick-your-own,” where you can actually pick your own food at the farm (such as strawberries, blueberries, pumpkins, etc.). This is especially fun when you have young kids.

8. You get to meet your farmers.

If you get to know the farmers that are producing your food and products, you not only know exactly how they are produced or grown, but you can sometimes get the hook-up. Have you ever heard of a CSA program , (community-supported agriculture program)? If not, it is definitely something to look into in your area. It is a way to directly Support your local farmers, get a weekly fresh batch of produce and goodies, eat seasonally, and sometimes even be able to pick the food in your weekly order. CSAs are not only good for the planet and the local farmers, but they are healthier for you. Often, a CSA is cheaper in the long run as well.

9. It can help you save money.

A lot of the time, buying local, organic produce from a local farmer (whether it is in a CSA program, at the farmers’ market, or organic food co-op), it is cheaper than buying it in a conventional grocery store. In conventional grocery stores, sometimes it will say that the produce is “organic” and “local,” but if you take the time to look further into where it actually comes from, there are still chemicals on the produce to preserve its look, (so it can travel more distance and remain looking fresh), and some hike up prices because of the label. Sometimes, when it says “local,” it can actually be grown from around 100-200 miles away from the store it is being sold in.

10. Buying local gives you the opportunity to buy in bulk.

This is not just referring to buying produce but also to bath products. As stated in reason number two, to shop local, there is less packaging, hence making it easier to add more to what you are buying. Personally, at one of the farmers’ markets I attend, the woman that runs the natural body care company that I purchase my bath items from uses all recyclable and refillable containers for her products in the first place. This makes it so much easier for me to just bring back the empty container to get it refilled. Also, buying in bulk often times saves money. Now, who doesn’t like that?

No matter if it is your local service business or your local food market, give shopping locally a chance. If you do, you will not only experience fresher food and kinder service, but you will have the satisfaction of knowing you are helping your neighbors and the planet.

Image source: Caroline Culler /Wikipedia Commons

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A display of vegetables on a stall in Borough Market, London.

Seven reasons to shop locally

F rom literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shoping. But some retailers claim the shift is now towards the high street, and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday .

Clare Rayner of Retail Champion says: "Christmas sales can account for between a third and nearly two-thirds of a retailer's annual turnover. A bad Christmas can mark disaster for a small business. Sadly, it really is a case of 'use it or lose it'.''

And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local for some of your gifts and groceries. We look at seven of the best …

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

High streets populated with thriving independent businesses boost the prices of nearby homes, according to a recent study . The research by American Express found that house prices near a prosperous town centre have risen by an average of £40,000 more over the past decade than other properties.

2. It is the ethical choice

Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating turkey and carrots that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local butchers, bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local farmers, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

When it comes to gifts, quirky one-off items are a major plus of independent shops. Give your niece or nephew a handmade toy and at least it won't be identical to everything they already have.

There's also the hyper-local gift choice: independent bookshops often stock titles by local authors that aren't yet on the shelves of the major chains, says Carol Thompson, co-founder of Chorlton Traders , a group of independent businesses based in south Manchester. "Local shops also support local artists and designers, food producers and growers, so you're buying products absolutely unique to your area."

4. You will be supporting British entrepreneurs

Artisan markets help foster the talents of the next generation of British designers and retailers. "[They] are hotbeds of innovation," says Mike Cooksedge, founder of SeeMyLocalMarket . "There is a constant turnover of new products, and sellers listen to customers' demands. If a certain pie filling is popular, for example, a pie company will respond to that and quickly supply more of them – and you can suggest things too, so you can even have a bit of influence over the products on sale."

5. You can help build communities

Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

Markets also often give space to community groups and social enterprises, says Ellie Gill, campaign manager at Love Your Local Market . "Markets can have a community value, as there is often a social purpose to stalls – they can be public spaces as well as retail outlets."

6. You might get a better deal or some good advice

Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

If you get to know your independent trader they should be able to recommend products to you, says Michelle Ovens, national campaign manager for Small Business Saturday. "For example, if you have a particular dietary requirement they can be great at telling you all about products you may wish to buy."

7. You can sometimes try before you buy

Major retailers have the advantage of economies of scale and can afford to slash prices and offer reduced costs. However, it's easy to waste money on products you end up not actually liking. You can hardly crack open a bottle of fizz in a supermarket aisle and do a quick taste test, or check if an apple is crunchy by taking a big bite. Neither can you do this online. At independent retailers, however, it's easier to ask to sample a product. Many independent off-licences throw regular wine tasting events, while farm shops, bakeries and delis hand out tasters as a matter of course.

Stay independent and make loyalty on the high street pay

Forget Tesco Clubcard and Nectar: around the UK there are now scores of discount and loyalty schemes that help you shop and save at independent stores.

Your Street gift cards Launched in June with the aim of getting people to return to local shops and "sustain the long term future of the high street", this is a gift card that can be spent at more than 130 retailers around Bristol . You can buy cards with values between £10 and £500. So far £70,000-worth have been sold.

Loyalzoo A new scheme which lets independent shops around the UK run loyalty schemes via a single app. You download the app on your smartphone, check-in to shops when you arrive and tell the retailer when you pay so they can add points to your account. On offer are free coffees, sandwichs and other deals. It is currently focussed on west London , but the designers are keen to get other businesses to sign up.

Tag! A scheme where you buy a card for £5 (10% goes to local charities) and receive discounts and other deals in a range of independent shops. It runs in parts of Manchester and Stockport . Retailers and the discounts they offer are all listed online. The aim is to encourage people to visit lots of shops on a high street, unlike the loyalty schemes of individual shops which incentivise visits only to them.

MyHigh.St A website offering delivery and click-and-collect services for people who want to buy goods from a range of independent shops, whether it's those on their local high street or beyond. Shoppers earn loyalty points at a rate of 1p for every £1 they spend on the site – double for click-and-collect to encourage them to visit the retailers in question. Currently, 290 shops around the UK are signed up. All have a physical presence, although some are market stalls and pop-up shops.

NotOnTheHighStreet.com Maybe not supporting the high street as such (although some of the businesses do have a physical presence) this website, which launched in 2006, brings together goods from 4,000 small retailers in one place. Goods are sold and dispatched by the individual firms but searchable by type and can be paid for in one transaction. This year, six of the businesses on the site have grown their turnover to more than £1m. Hilary Osborne

Consumer affairs
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Everything You Need to Know About Purchasing Locally-Made Vacation Souvenirs

Vacation souvenirs are a great way to commemorate a memorable trip and bring a little bit of your travel experience back home with you. When planning a vacation, visiting a local souvenir shop to get an item will help you remember your experience for years. Instead of settling for the same generic souvenirs sold in tourist traps, why not support local artists and purchase travel souvenirs unique to the area? Not only will this provide much-needed financial support to the local economy, but it will also give you a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remind you of your journey.

Regarding vacation souvenirs, nothing says I was here quite like locally-made items. Whether you’re visiting a big city or a small town, as an ecotourist , buying locally-made souvenirs is a great way to make your travel memories even more special.

What is locally made souvenirs

Locally made souvenirs can be something like a handicraft made by local artists locally made in that village. For example, if you are visiting a beach town or island with many tourist shops, you might want to look for the words local or made on-site on their products. These types of souvenirs often have a more genuine feel because they were created by people who live in the community and create their art out of items they find there. There is usually a local souvenir shop where these goods are sold. Purchasing from one of these stores is great because it supports these small businesses.

Why you should buy locally made souvenirs

Shopping for vacation souvenirs can be an exciting and enjoyable experience. By supporting local artists and buying locally made souvenirs, you can positively impact the community you visit. By purchasing locally made souvenirs, the financial benefit goes directly to local people, which means we can contribute fully to local community development. By shopping at a local souvenir shop, you will support small business owners who have been steadily investing their time and energy into their own communities for years – not large corporations who may have recently relocated from another country with little investment in the community or its history.

You should avoid anything that appears mass-produced. Buying a souvenir mass-produced means the profit goes to a big company or even a business in a foreign country. This does nothing for the local economy, and the souvenir is likely to be something you could find in any souvenir shop worldwide. Instead, buying travel souvenirs from a local shop means supporting the local economy and getting something unique and special. Plus, you can often find a great bargain as well. So, next time you’re on a trip, find a local souvenir shop and get something you can cherish for years.

How you can find locally made souvenirs

The best places to buy locally-made souvenirs are street vendors, markets, and booths. They are typically found in busy areas, on streets near attractions like museums and local landmarks. They could be there every day or just on specific days. No matter where you’re going, finding locally made souvenirs can add an extra special touch to your travels. Below are how you can find locally made souvenirs:

Ask local people where and what they suggest you buy

For example, if you’re traveling to Mexico, take time to get a recommendation from locals on which souvenir shops have high-quality Mexican goods like arts and crafts. For example, if you travel to Rome, ask a vendor at one of the touristy markets or stores about any artisanal makers.

Get curious about vendors and artisans

When you come across a local souvenir shop, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the items they offer. Talk to the shop owner or artisan and ask them where they got the items or even what they are made of. Ask if they have any advice on what travel souvenirs will make great gifts for your friends and family back home.

When purchasing vacation souvenirs, there is no better way to remember your trip than by visiting a local souvenir shop. These unique stores are full of locally made items and can offer a great selection of traditional and unique products that you won’t find anywhere else. So, whether you’re looking for something traditional or unique, visit a local souvenir shop on your next vacation and bring home something special.

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10 Tips for Finding Authentic & Meaningful Souvenirs on Your Travels

Meaningful souvenirs that capture the spirit of a place and culture can last you a lifetime. Here are 10 practical tips for avoiding mass-produced mementos and finding handmade, ethical and authentic souvenirs on your travels.

I may be a minimalist traveller at heart, but I have a soft spot for beautiful, handmade souvenirs.

Textiles are my thing. Wherever I go, I always bring home a handmade wall hanging, carpet or tablecloth to add to my growing collection. My most-treasured souvenirs from five years of travel are a set of paintings from Yangon , a wooden box from Marrakesh, filigree jewellery from Kosovo , and a traditional Carriel bag made in Jerico, Colombia .

Like many long-term travellers, I always struggle to make room in my backpack for said textiles plus gifts for family back home. Over the years, I’ve had to learn (through a long process of trial and error – and yes, a few overweight luggage fees) to be very selective when buying souvenirs.

The sad reality is that majority of souvenirs made for tourists these days are low quality and mass-produced. Compared to my first trip to Southeast Asia back in 2012, handmade, authentic and ethical souvenirs have become far more difficult to find.

This is particularly true of night markets in Asia. But I now see the same trend towards cheap, ‘fast’ souvenirs almost everywhere I go.

In my everyday life, I write about and research ethical fashion and fair trade. This puts me in a good position to offer advice on this topic.

I was recently invited by Intrepid Travel to share my top tips for ethical shopping in Luang Prabang, Laos – and that got me thinking about ways to find meaningful souvenirs no matter where you’re travelling to.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

A woman sews a textile in Sapa, Vietnam.

What makes a souvenir meaningful?

Mass-produced souvenirs don’t fit with my travel ethos at all. For me, the best souvenir is something that reminds you of a particular place and a particular time – so it follows that the object should have roots in the location where you found it.

What’s the use of buying a scarf made in a factory in China to recall your travels in Laos? It just doesn’t make sense to me.

‘Meaningful’ souvenirs are just that – objects that mean something to you. Ideally, they also mean something to the culture and to the person who made them.

When looking for souvenirs to buy, I have four criteria that I always consider:

Is it made locally?
Does it use local materials?
Is it made ethically?
Is it something I’ll use back home?

If you follow my souvenir buying ethos and focus on a few key items that meet these requirements, you’re surely save money and luggage space.

More than that, buying meaningful souvenirs is an easy way to support artists, small businesses and social enterprises, and thus give back to the local community.

10 tips for finding meaningful souvenirs

Here are 10 practical tips for finding meaningful, authentic, handmade and ethical souvenirs anywhere in the world.

1. Do you research before you arrive

If you want a souvenir that’s steeped in culture and significant to the place you’re visiting, it really pays to do some online research before you travel.

I don’t just mean consulting ‘top 10 souvenir’ lists, because those are often limited to popular, mass-produced souvenirs.

Instead, focus your research on traditional craft techniques and materials. Is organic hemp a specialty fabric? Is basket weaving part of the cultural heritage?

Within those categories, try to find out if there are any particular patterns, motifs or colourways that are important to the area. Oftentimes artisans tailor their designs to tourists’ tastes. That’s fine if the finished product resonates with you, but if you want something culturally significant, you might have to look beyond the regular shops and markets.

Objects such as textiles, woodwork and metalwork are often tied to local culture and customs. Taking the time to investigate their significance demonstrates respect beyond their aesthetic value. On a practical note, coming in with an idea of what you’re looking for will make the decision-making process much, much easier.

UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage is a great place to start researching artisan techniques and indigenous materials.

2. Avoid night markets & tourist traps

I love the atmosphere of a good night market, but it’s not where I choose to do my souvenir shopping. In Southeast Asia particularly, night markets have become the domain of tourists and are often overflowing with cheap, mass-produced ‘stuff’.

Even supposedly authentic markets such as the iconic Bac Ha in Northern Vietnam have lost much of their authenticity in recent years.

If you’ve travelled around Vietnam by bus, you’ll know it’s customary to stop at ‘souvenir shops’ on the highway from Hanoi to Halong Bay , for example. Again, these are usually tourist traps.

These are extreme examples, and I know I’m generalising here – there are of course many, many exceptions to this rule. Art and craft markets are often the best place to source souvenirs directly from the creator, and many cities have beautifully curated boutiques that are designed for tourists but still offer quality products.

Let common sense prevail. If you visit a market where the same items appear again and again – and it’s obvious that it’s made from synthetic materials – then those aren’t necessarily going to be the most meaningful souvenirs to take home with you.

A market filled with bronze and copper pots.

3. Support social enterprises & ethical boutiques

Instead of souvenir shops, try seeking out social enterprises and ethical boutiques instead. Social enterprises that train and employ people, often those most disadvantaged in society, can be found all over the world. More often then not, they produce high-quality products. They also reinvest profits back into their communities.

A good example is Jennifer’s Hamam in Istanbul , a project that works with artisans to make hand-loomed Turkish bath towels. There are dozens of social enterprises in Hanoi , Phnom Penh , Kuala Lumpur , and other cities across Southeast Asia, each of them committed to supporting artisans and minimising their impact on the environment.

4. Go straight to the source

‘Handmade’ is a word that gets thrown around a lot these days. The easiest way to tell if something is truly made by hand is of course to see the process with your own eyes.

Do some digging around and no matter where in the world you are, you’ll find a chance to go direct to the workshop, studio or craft village. This allows you to observe the process and buy direct from artisans.

Artisans Angkor in Cambodia is a great example. In addition to their boutiques, they also offer short tours of their craft workshops and silk factory in Siem Reap . When I visited Amish Pennsylvania, I was told about a home workshop – I drove up to someone’s garage and bought an incredible hand-sewn quilt from the woman who made it.

5. Look for certification seals or symbols

Fair Trade Guaranteed or Certified, GOTS organic cotton FSC Certified wood – all of these marks are designed to help consumers identify products that are fairly made from sustainable materials. You might look for these symbols when you do your shopping at home – you can also use them to find meaningful souvenirs.

Certification isn’t the be all and end all, but it’s a pretty good indication that a company or brand has policies in place to protect its workers and the environment.

Some cities and regions have developed their own standards to promote artisans and safeguard cultural heritage. For example, Handmade Luang Prabang recognises makers who produce textiles and woodwork locally using endemic materials.

A woman weaving a carpet on a large freestanding loom.

6. Join a culture-themed tour

Joining a food tour is a great way to understand a place’s culinary scene and get recommendations for where to eat local food . In the same vein, a culture-focused city tour can help you figure out what souvenirs to buy and where.

Urban Adventures offers a program of private and small-group tours that are specifically focused on locally made souvenirs. Itineraries range from market tours of Hong Kong (created in collaboration with Lonely Planet), to shopping tours of Bucharest, Romania and special edition tours, such as guided walks through Christmas markets.

7. Ask a local

The main benefit to joining a guided shopping tour is having a guide to give you their suggestions. Even if you don’t join a formal tour, it’s always worth asking a local to recommend meaningful souvenirs and their favourite shops.

Brightly coloured plates mounted on a wall.

8. Be prepared to pay a bit extra

When searching for meaningful souvenirs, it’s important to think in terms of quality over quantity. Something handmade is always going to be a bit more expensive than a factory made alternative.

Think of each souvenir or gift you buy as an investment piece. That way, you’re far less likely to gravitate towards cheap, poorly made items.

9. Take your time

The pressure to find the perfect souvenir and buy the ideal gifts for people back home can be intense, I know. But rushing to fill up your suitcase as quickly as possible is a sure-fire way to end up with whole bunch of stuff you don’t really want or need. Meaningful souvenirs take time to make – and they take time to track down, too.

Take your time to look around, not necessarily in search of the best bargain but rather to compare different designs and quality. If time permits, I try to visit a market several times before I commit to buy anything.

10. Only invest in something you’re going to use back home

Trinkets, ornaments and colourful knickknacks are fun, but how often are you actually going to use them?

If you buy a souvenir that you can integrate into your daily routine back at home, then you’re much more likely to hold onto it and cherish it into the future. If an item is crafted to serve a specific purpose (even if it’s just decorative), it’s much more likely to hold meaning.

A spice grinder from Istanbul, a set of shot glasses from Serbia , a printed tablecloth from Tbilisi – all of these items are beautiful, but they also serve a specific purpose and hold value to the culture they came from. To me, that makes them even more meaningful.

10 easy tips to help you find authentic, ethical & meaningful souvenirs and gifts on your travels. Save time, money, and support small businesses.

Meaningful souvenirs: Pin it

Check out my latest souvenir guides.

The best souvenirs from Colombia
Where to do your shopping in Hanoi
Where to find Malaysian souvenirs
The best Cambodian souvenirs
The best Georgian souvenirs in Tbilisi
Authentic Armenian souvenirs
The best Oman souvenirs

One Comment

You made a good point when you mentioned buying something that serves you a purpose when you bring it back home so you won’t feel regret spending your money on it. My wife and I are thinking to go on a vacation next month since we have not had the chance to do so for quite some time as we both have been busy with our jobs. I think it would be great if I get some souvenirs that are useful like clothing pieces from the place for my parent, as well as my siblings.

Souvenir Shopping in Moscow: Izmailovsky Market

I have a list of things that I need to bring back from every country to complete our ‘Home Sweet Home’. Our abode has a Turkish lamp from Istanbul, an ostrich egg from South Africa, a carved wooden door from Zanzibar, bright red clogs from Netherlands, floor carpet from Oman, papyrus paintings from Egypt… the list goes on. It truly looks like a travellers house! Obviously, on the list was ‘Matryoshka Dolls from Russia’. Now that I was in Russia, I just had to pick up a set.

Kremlin at Izmailovsky

Shopping for the Maytryoshka dolls can be tricky…they start at Rub 50 and can cost as much as Rub 50,000!!! YES… Rubles fifty thousand! The cheaper ones are like toys and the expensive ones are works of art, with intricate designs and fine paintings. However, price is also drive by the location; souvenirs are really expensive in the city centre, especially near the Kremlin. So, if you want to get yourself a sweet deal, or buy in bulk to gift them to friends, you should head to Izmailovsky Market, which is famous for its souvenir market. The market is where the locals buy dolls, magnets, other souvenir items, scarves, fur etc in bulk and then, sell them to tourists at various places in the city centre.

Faberge Egg Souvenirs

Getting there?

Every local knows about the Izmailovsky market. However, don’t expect too much help from the locals as most Russians do not understand English. And let’s not forget, you are in Russia …and culturally, many Russians do not engage with a conversation with strangers.

The easiest way to get to the Izmailovsky market is by using the metro. It takes about 20 minutes from the city centre to Partizanskaya, which is the closest metro station to the market. You can then walk for about 5 minutes to the colourful building, which is the Izmailovsky Kremlin and houses the souvenir market.

The other option is to take an Uber, which will cost about Rub 400, but might it take you an hour or so to get there from the city centre. Moscow has crazy traffic!

What are the opening hours?

The market opens at 10:00 and the starts winding up by about 17:30. By 18:00, most stalls are closed. The market is most crowded, with the maximum number of sellers and buyers, on the weekends.

Souvenir market at Izmailovsky

What to buy?

I was at the market to buy dolls, and focussed my energies on the same. However, you can buy some great woollen garments and winter wear. There is porcelain from Russia and the CIS countries… pretty blue stuff, but very delicate and difficult to carry. There is also an entire market on paintings – nature, still life, monuments. And then, there is a flea market full of used stuff – kitchenware, clothes, artifacts, jewellery …lots and lots of knick knacks!

Paintings at the Izmailovsky market

What’s the price?

What else is around?

There is a small vodka museum at the Izmailovsky Kremlin where you can look at funky vodka bottles and sample some Russian vodka as well.

Fancy some vodka?

There there is a little church and there are buildings that seem to have popped out from candy land. There are a couple of coffee shops for you to grab a cup of coffee and a cookie.

There are quite a few restaurants serving vegetarian and meat based dishes in the area. The Best Western, Alpha and Delta hotels are nearby. Each has a couple of good restaurants with good quality food.

What did I do?

Luckily, I was staying at the Best Western in Izmailovsky, which is very close to this market. However, by the time I would get back to the hotel, it was 19:00 and the market was closed. I managed to visit the market only once, most days were spent in sight seeing, on my last evening in Moscow. How I wish I would have visited it earlier…or maybe multiple times!

I spent about 3 hours at the market, bargaining, shopping and clicking pictures. I got great value for money products and had a great time walking around the place. If you do intend to shop for souvenirs in Russia, make time for the Izmailovsky Market!

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POSTED Mar 29, 2022 - 01:12 PM

Here’s why customers choose to buy local for sustainable living

AUTHOR NAME HERE

Less product miles and reduced waste production are some of the sustainability reasons why consumers choose to buy local

In PwC’s June 2021 Global Consumer Insights Pulse Survey , Southeast Asia and the Middle East have the highest number of consumers adopting eco-friendly shopping practices. Specifically, 74 percent of the respondents in the Philippines said that they have now become more eco-friendly shoppers.

Additionally, PwC listed factors that influence a consumer’s loyalty to a brand, and ethical and sustainable practices ranked fifth and seventh, respectively. This shows that consumer interest in sustainability is increasing, especially in the country. This is great news for local brands, which have a leverage in offering sustainability to customers. Here’s why.

Less product miles

Products that are manufactured locally don’t require overseas plane or freight travel. Reducing product miles , or the total distance traveled by a product from where it was grown or manufactured to where it will be sold or consumed, means less fuel consumption and air pollution. Buying locally, especially from MSMEs within the customer’s vicinity, may even allow businesses to utilize active transport instead.

For perishable products, removing overseas shipping also means cutting down the amount of time that transport refrigeration units are used. These vehicles are commonly powered by diesel engines that emit nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide, and particulate matter.

Reduced waste

Did you know that each Filipino contributes almost 12.4 kilos of packaging waste yearly? Bubble wrap, styrofoam, plastic—imported goods produce a lot of non-renewable packaging waste because manufacturers need to make sure that it arrives here undamaged.

Since it travels more before it is consumed, imported goods may have decreased shelf life and an increased chance of spoilage. These increase the possibility of quickly being discarded by retailers or customers themselves. Perishable items may go bad before they are bought, or they may be closer to expiration already upon landing in customers’ shopping carts. This waste is cut down for local MSMEs, especially those with farm-to-table approaches.

Economic and social impact

Sustainable development has three pillars : economic, social, and environmental. Buying from local MSMEs keeps the money circulating and creates job opportunities within the community. Since these businesses are owned by people who live in the community themselves, they tend to be more invested in the community’s future and contribute to its growth.

Unique and diverse products

If customers want to buy kakanin, woven textiles, or other uniquely Filipino products, would they seek it from international brands? Probably not, because it would be easier to find those from local businesses. Global brands tend to make products attractive and sellable to audiences worldwide, so there may be a limit to the product types they carry. Due to shelf life and transportability factors, local businesses have better chances to offer hard-to-find products as well, especially for perishable items .

For conscious consumers, patronizing local products is a simple and doable starting point for incorporating sustainability into their lifestyle. Covering the economic, social, and environmental aspects of sustainable development, this practice is able to provide benefits to everyone–from the customers and the businesses to the environment. With more consumers adopting eco-friendly shopping practices, now is a good time for local MSMEs to step up in the market and gain support from their community.

For more information and news on business visit CREATE Philippines and IFEXCONNECT

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Russian Kitchen

A hunter’s guide to souvenir shopping in Moscow

One of the first questions that comes to mind of foreign tourists is what should they buy in Russian and where. Pictured: Moscow’s Vernisazh market at Izmailovo. Source: ITAR-tASS

A fair in Russia is an open-air market, although it could also be described as a bazaar. It comes with all the usual trappings: noise, shouting, haggling to get two-thirds off the price of a product that is at least five times overpriced, ever-present pickpockets, and the same thrill of the chase that causes Europeans to snap up carpets in Tunisia and matryoshka dolls in Moscow. Buying Russian souvenirs anywhere else is pointless.

This leaves only two questions: What should you buy in Russia, and where?

Moscow wants to go visa-free

Salt, saints and sinners

Looking for interesting antiques, unique drinks, and peculiarly Russian food? How about some excellent warm clothing for those cold winter nights? Russians know a thing or two about that. Many tourists from Northern countries come here especially to seek out fur hats with earflaps or fur coats.

Anna Maria, a student from Denmark, shares her thoughts on Moscow’s Vernisazh market at Izmailovo: "It's fashionable in Europe now to wear things from Russia. There’s some great stuff: hats, scarves, earrings... I really want a fur coat! But a fur hat is the most important thing! I advise all tourists to get one here. That's what I'm looking for right now.”

Russia is particularly famous for its down shawls from Orenburg in the southern Urals. They are incredibly warm, yet thin and lightweight. Orenburg shawls bear all the characteristics of traditional folk handicraft.

In Russia, colorful woolen and cotton shawls with traditional Russian patterns known as khokhloma are becoming increasingly popular. Young girls carefully select shawls to match their eyes and hair and to wear them with fur coats. It became fashionable just a year ago, and it really does look beautiful. European tourists sometimes cling to old preconceptions that, supposedly, "only grannies wear such scarves."

What to buy in Russian Souvenir shopping. Pictured (left-right, top to bottom): Ushanka hats, Zhostovo trails, decorative eegs, Orenburg cashmere shawls . Source: Anton Panin

Besides clothing, Russian fairs teem with matryoshkas and other wooden objects. Such souvenirs not only decorate shelves, but can also be put to good use in the kitchen: Russian-style spoons, plates, or spatulas make a great gift.

Some tourists admit to occasionally scouring Russian markets for old Soviet antiques. Dulled World War II medals, military clothing, badges, books — these are all of wild interest to collectors. It should be noted that such medals and decorations were awarded to people for heroism on the battlefield, and then sold to dealers out of extreme poverty. Selling and buying state awards is illegal, and special permission must be obtained before trying to take them out of the country. So be forewarned.

Utensils occupy a special place among Russian souvenirs. For example, the rare samovar is still a symbol of Russian life, despite having been replaced by the ubiquitous kettle. From time to time, visitors might still catch a glimpse of a large and beautiful samovar on a dining table. The famous dishware from the town of Gzhel is also a trademark of Russia, renowned for its intricate patterns and colors. Gzhel is an ancient center of porcelain, earthenware, and pottery production.

What to buy in Russian: Souvenir shopping. Pictured (left-right): Gzhel ceramics, Matryoshka dolls. Source: Anton Panin

And, of course, many people want to indulge themselves and their friends with good old-fashioned pancakes, cakes, and kvass. Moscow periodically hosts honey fairs, with different varieties brought in from all over Russia. Fair-goers can spend all day tasting honey. At such events, tourists can also have a sip of a light alcoholic drink known as medovukha, or sweet mead.

Where should tourists go to buy souvenirs in Moscow?

What to buy in Russian: Souvenir shopping. Pictured (left-right): Pavlovo Posad shawls, Palekh lacquer boxes. Source: Anton Panin

Red Square market

This is the most banal option, perfect for lazybones. On exiting Teatralnaya metro station, you will see a series of tents with the usual suspects: dolls, hats, scarves. Pros: you do not have far to go if you are staying in the center, and you will be able to visit the Kremlin and Red Square at the same time. Cons: everything is overpriced and rather clichéd.

Strolling along this historic pedestrian street at the heart of Moscow, you can hear live music, buy your own portrait, and pick up souvenirs or even a tattoo. Pros: the street itself is of historical interest. There is quite a wide variety of souvenirs and lots of pictures. Cons: the prices are slightly inflated.

Sparrow Hills

This famous tourist attraction is a kind of observation deck from which to view Moscow. There is never a shortage of stalls with souvenirs. The choice, however, is not large, even though it is somewhat more varied than the selection on Red Square. Pros: at Sparrow Hills you can take a ride up the chairlift or a boat trip from one of the piers; in good weather, you can see almost all of Moscow from the observation point. Cons: a rather limited selection and generally very windy conditions, even in summer.

Vernisazh at Izmailovo

This is perhaps the most famous and largest market in the area, located at Partizanskaya metro station to the east of Moscow. Here you can find souvenirs galore, including giant matryoshkas and numerous Soviet antiques and paintings. Seasoned tourists recommend going deep into the belly of the market, where things are cheaper and haggling is easier. Pros: a vast selection and located near Izmailovo Kremlin. Cons: quite far from the center of the center.

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Travel Tips

I Only Buy Souvenirs That Are Actually Useful — and It's Changed the Way I Travel

It's the best way to relive your travels.

Kailey Whitman/Travel + Leisure

Whenever I grab a pinch of salt while cooking, I think about the road trip my mom and I took to Burlington, Vermont, right after I graduated from college. When I drink my morning coffee, I reflect on the first weekend my boyfriend and I spent together in upstate New York . And when I reach for a pen at my desk, I’m reminded of another mother-daughter vacation to Copenhagen. It’s not just because I have a really good memory — it’s because my home is filled with thoughtful souvenirs.

Most of my travel itineraries revolve around restaurants, bars, and coffee shops — mainly because I’m a far more pleasant traveler when I’m well-fed and caffeinated. But local shops and flea markets always make their way on my list of trip must-dos. In part because they’re a great way to understand a culture more deeply, but also because I’m constantly on the hunt for a good souvenir.

When I look around my home now, and the physical representations of my travels I’ve filled it with, I’m reminded of the souvenirs I eyed — and begged my parents to buy, with a middling success rate — as a child. Think stuffed animals, bags of polished rocks, and miniature license plates with my name on them. The items themselves might not have had much sentimental value, but it was more about what they represented. These little trinkets — whether they were a ridiculously shiny gold-tone Eiffel Tower keychain or a magnet in the shape of Florida — said, "I was there."

Whenever I returned home, the knickknacks would usually find themselves on a shelf or in my closet, and I wouldn’t give them much thought after getting back into my routine. That’s why now, as an adult, I’ve found that souvenirs in the form of items I actually use daily are much more valuable to me.

That’s not to say I don’t love the occasional novelty sweatshirt or bumper sticker, but I tend to buy goods made by local artisans and designers: ceramics, glassware, home linens, clothing, etc. My salt dish from Burlington, my mug from upstate New York, and my ceramic vase from Copenhagen are just a few of the items I’ve purchased as functional souvenirs. At this point, they’ve been in at least four apartments, and I have no plans to leave them behind any time soon.

Kailey Whitman/Travel + Leisure

On a recent trip to Mexico City, I was on a mission to come home with meaningful souvenirs. I knew I wanted to bring something home that I could remember this trip by — the first big trip I took with friends since the pandemic began.

While browsing a clothing store in the Roma Norte neighborhood, we stumbled upon a rack of silk dresses from a local designer Carla Alfonsina . (She is an illustrator and tattoo artist, and the dresses feature her own drawings.) We crowded in the small dressing room, trying on two different printed versions of the dress, helping each other tie the silk straps in the back and elbowing each other to get a look in the mirror. It was dumb luck — the dresses fit each of us and our styles perfectly.

We each bought one. None of us live in the same city, so we’ll never run into the issue of wearing our matching dresses at the same time and place. (Although, I like to think of us unintentionally wearing them together from across the country.) I’ll be reminded of that charming shop, that beautiful day, and my wonderful friends every time I wear it.

For me, travel is about being present. It’s about, briefly, leaving my life at home and immersing myself in a different world. When I’m back at home, though, I’m able to recapture some of those feelings thanks to my souvenirs. Even if just for a moment, I can transport myself back to Burlington, Copenhagen, or Mexico City, just by reaching for a pinch of salt, grabbing a pen, or slipping on a dress.

New York City’s Best 50 Souvenirs and Gifts (a Local’s Guide)

Sharing is caring!

“What souvenirs should I bring back from New York City?” It was a question that often stumped me. As a longtime New York City local, I never thought about what to bring home, because I was home . But when I started this blog, I started to pay closer attention to the bounty right here in my own backyard and to slowly compile my list of New York City’s Best Souvenirs.

What Gifts and New York City souvenirs made the Top List and Why You Should Trust my Suggestions

When creating this master list of the best and top 50 New York City souvenirs, I wanted to include (i) iconic and unique NYC souvenirs that represent the city (ii) food souvenirs; (iii) souvenirs for kids and (iv) NYC themed gifts for friends and family back home. I also wanted the NYC souvenirs to be affordable, so no NYC gift listed here is over $50 and most are well under $10.

This is the most comprehensive list of unique NYC souvenirs you will find. I know because I googled to see what else is out there and only came across generic listicles using stock photos, defaulting to lazy recommendations like “something from the MOMA store.” Yeah, not helpful, thanks.

I have personally vetted each souvenir in my best of NYC list, taken nearly every photo, taste-tested, researched and visited each place. I’ve written and linked to the many NYC posts I’ve already written and added a couple dozen more to make this top 50 NYC souvenir guide.

Top 50 Best NYC Souvenirs and Gifts, a Comprehensive List

As I live right here in New York City, I will continue to update this list, so check back for new additions. If there is a cool NYC souvenir you think deserves to be on the list, please share in the comments!

1. The Classic I Love New York T-Shirt: the Most Iconic NYC Souvenir

NYC iconic best souvenirs t shirt Kristin Francis

Iconic NYC souvenir
Available at souvenir shops and here online for women , men/unisex and kid

You’ve heard the famous slogan, remember the catchy jingle and may even have a souvenir mug at the back of your cupboard with the recognizable around-the-world phrase “I love New York.” So kitschy it’s cool, you can’t go wrong with this tee, available in the classic white or colors, traditional or tapered fit.

2. New York Yankees Cap Souvenir

Iconic NYC gift souvenir
Suitable for Adults, teens, kids
Available at Yankee stadium, souvenir shops and here online

The New York Yankees may or may not be your favorite baseball team, but one thing everyone can agree on– the Yankees logo is one of the most recognizble sports logos worldwide. If you travel anywhere in this world with a Yankees hat , people will know exactly what that is.

3. Patience and Fortitude Bookend Souvenirs from the New York Public Library

Patience Fortitude Bookends Souvenir New York Public Library gift shop

Iconic symbol of the NYPL and NYC
Good gift for book lovers

The pair of lions that guard the entrance of the New York Public Library, named Patience and Fortitude, are a well known symbol of the city– and make a great souvenir in the form of classic bookends. Read about what to do at the NYPL and what other souvenirs to find there here .

Rose reading room pose photos nypl after hours

4. Strand Bookstore Tote Souvenir

Not just for tourists, used by locals too
Available at Strand Bookstore

The Strand Bookstore, founded in 1927 and still family owned, is the only remnant of New York’s Book Row still standing. Every book lover will appreciate the Strand Book Tote bag, available in many designs, including those with the famous slogan “18 miles of books.”

These totes aren’t just for tourists, you’ll see the Strand tote bags slung over the shoulders of locals on the bus, stuffed with produce at the farmers markets and even at times used to lug actual books.

5. The Iconic New York Bagel Souvenir

Food souvenir, perishable, so purchase at end of trip (can be frozen)
Good gift for carb lovers

I wrote all about my love for bagels, including how to order one and what a flagel is, in an earlier post here. New York City bagels top my list of best food souvenirs because they are truly unmatched. Pick up at your favorite bagel shop (or try my favorite, Ess-a-bagel).

6. New York City Ceramic Anthora Coffee Cup Souvenir

Suitable for everyone (sippy cups available for kids)
Available at the MOMA, City Store and here (ceramic Anthora coffee cup) online

Back in the day, you could spot a NYC takeout coffee cup (known as the “Anthora” design) by its iconic blue, white and gold colors. While it’s harder these days to find a traditional Greek Anthora cup (blame Starbucks), they remain a great nostalgic piece of NYC history and an iconic only-in-NYC souvenir.

7. FDNY (Fire Department of New York) Souvenirs

FDNY toy firetruck nyc souvenir children kids

Buy souvenirs from the Fire Museum or an authorized gift shop like City Store to ensure it benefits the FDNY (souvenirs are NOT sold at firehouses)
Excellent gifts for kids

When you were a child, did you have dreams of being a fireman? Or a firetruck? Live out those dreams and honor the brave men and women of the FDNY by visiting the fire museum for a great learning experience and pick up some fun fireman related souvenirs like a truck, cap and kid size fire jacket.

Note: Although it’s fine to take unobtrusive photos of local firehouses from the outside, under no circumstances should you ask for a tour, these are working fire houses, not tourist attractions.

8. New York City Souvenir Black and White Cookie

Iconic New York City Souvenir
Food Souvenir
Comes wrapped for easy transport and better shelf life

These delicious cookie-cakes can make a great New York City souvenir, but only if you get them at the right place (William Greenberg is my favorite). I wrote all about the black and white cookie in an earlier post here .

9. Quirky Gowanus Canal T Shirt Souvenirs

Fun Brooklyn gift for adults/teens
Available at local gift shops in Gowanus Brooklyn and here online

The Gowanus Canal, a tidal estuary in Brooklyn that flows into the New York Harbor, was built during the Civil War for transportation purposes. It’s now a Superfund site and c onsidered one of the most polluted waterways in the country.

Despite the cleanup still ongoing, scores of artists and eclectic shops have set up in the area and apartment prices are sky high. The hardy tourist can explore this canal via a guided canoe tour, or just take a stroll through the neighborhood and buy a tongue-in-cheek souvenir like these Gowanus canal T-shirts .

10. Roosevelt Island Souvenir Replica Tram Car

Unusual NYC Souvenir idea

The Roosevelt Island tram is positively thrilling– it feels as close to an adventure as you can get in Manhattan, soaring 3100 feet in the air over the East River (yes we do have actual islands that are part of Manhattan!) Check out my post for how and where to catch the tram, what to do on Roosevelt Island and a full review of the gift shop .

The gift shop right off the tram exit has a very unique NYC souvenir– a replica bright red tram car.

11. Roosevelt Island Asylum for the Insane Mug Souvenir

Unique and unusual NYC gift
Available at Roosevelt Island gift shop

I couldn’t help but add a second Roosevelt Island souvenir because of a bit of sometimes forgotten NYC history.

The New York City Lunatic Asylum, opened in 1841 (when Roosevelt Island was called Blackwell Island), was the subject of an exposé by Nellie Bly in her 1887 book Ten Days in a Mad-House . You can still see the original octagon shaped entrance on the island, now serving as the entry to luxury apartments.

12. Manhattan Special Espresso Coffee Soda- Cult Following Souvenir

Manhattan special soda nyc unique souvenir

Great for coffee lovers
Available at some local bodegas and here online

Founded in 1895 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Manhattan Special Espresso Coffee Soda is made with espresso beans, seltzer water and sugar. The soda has a cult like following , best enjoyed straight up, with milk or Sambuca.

13. Dinosaur Puppet Souvenir from the American Museum of Natural History

American Museum Natural History dinosaur puppet souvenir kids children

Good gift for teens and kids
Available at the museum gift shop

The American Museum of Natural History is chock full of artifacts and exhibits, but bar none the most memorable are the full-size dinosaur exhibits. I loved this cute dinosaur puppet souvenir in the gift shop.

American museum natural history lobby kristin view

14. A Souvenir Beaker Styled Measuring Cup from the New Gilder Science Center

Useful souvenir (can be used as actual measuring cup)
Just opened Gilder Science Center (March 2023)

The brand new Gilder Science Center (connecting to the American Natural History Museum) is a must do for the fantastic Gaudi-esque building and cool exhibits.

15. Lloyd’s Carrot Cake Souvenir (Harlem)

Lloyd's Carrot Cake Best Harlem Souvenir

Lesser Known NYC food souvenir
Available at the two Lloyd’s locations

Read all the details about where to go to get this scrumptious carrot cake and read the story behind this black owned family business in my recent blog post dedicated to this shop. Available by the whole cake or slice, with or without raisins and nuts. Although carrot cake is Lloyd’s specialty, they have other cake flavors available as well.

16. El Barrio East Harlem Souvenir Hoodie

Local East Harlem Souvenir
Hoodie available at the gift shop at El Museo del Barrio

East Harlem, also widely known as El Barrio (“the neighborhood”) is a mix of thriving cultures, a nice change from the more staid Upper East Side that it borders.

For a first timer, I recommend visiting the amazing Conservatory Gardens of Central Park at 105th Street, hitting the latest exhibit at El Museo del Barrio across the street (and grabbing this cool souvenir hoodie) then trying one of the great restaurants (my favorites are Taco Mix and Sidewalk Tacos, Earl’s Cheese, Bar Goyana, Cascalote Latin Bistro and Lloyd’s Carrot Cake).

17. Metropolitan Museum of Art Replica Etruscan Bracelet Souvenir

Unique NYC gift
Available at the Met gift shop

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (the “Met”) is a must see for tourists. As a local, I visit often sometimes just to see one thing or breathe in the atmosphere. Read all about my top picks on what to see at the Met and a rundown of the best souvenirs here.

I’ve browsed through the jewelry exhibits and lusted after gorgeous designs of the the ancient artifacts. While the Met’s jewelry collection isn’t available for loans, you can find a beautifully made replica souvenir at the Met’s gift shop.

18. William, the Met’s 4000 Year Old Blue Mascot

I don’t often buy “tchockes,” but made an exception for adorable William. William has been the Met Museum’s unofficial mascot since 1917 (though he is actually over four thousand years old). Now he is my mascot too, and takes pride of place in my bookcase ( see my post on the Met here ).

19. Chinatown Souvenirs

Lesser known NYC souvenirs
Fun to browse Chinatown for unique finds

Chinatown is a fun area to dine and browse for unique NYC souvenirs and see what you come across. If I was going to recommend something specific to look out for, I love the tea sets, plates, and colorful decorative souvenirs like the Chinese New Year Dragon.

Along Canal Street you can find lots of handbags, jewelry and scarves on the cheap of dubious origin.

20. New York Souvenir Babka (especially Chocolate Babka)

Iconic NYC food souvenir
Available at many bakeries

A staple at New York’s traditional Jewish bakeries, babka is a delicious cross between a cake and a bread, and comes in regular and chocolate versions. Check out my prior post where I taste tested five of the city’s noted chocolate babka’s here .

21. FAO Schwarz Bear Toy Soldier Souvenir

Iconic NYC kid’s gift
Available at souvenir shops and here online

FAO Schwarz is a unique, only-in-NYC shopping experience (read my two part post here ), decked out with life-size props, spot lighting and music, and a big piano musical keyboard, all creating a theatrical shopping experience. For an iconic souvenir, pick up the FAO Schwarz toy soldier bear.

22. S&S Cheesecake (Bronx)

Lesser known NYC food souvenir
Bronx location

S&S Cheesecake is still family owned, using the same original 1960 recipe for their luscious cheesecake. It’s a local institution, and truly qualifies as a hidden gem, known little outside of the city. While the shop is a bit out of the way for a tourist on limited time, it is located directly off the train stop.

23. Levain’s Cookies: a Great Hostess Gift from NYC

Crowd favorite for a gift from NYC

Levain’s remains my personal NYC cookie favorite (I wrote about them here) and my go-to hostess gift. Thse mammoth cookies are baked to perfection– crispy on the outside, properly gooey on the inside.

24. Orwasher’s Rye Bread

nyc food souvenir and gifts orwashers rye bread

Available at Orwasher’s Upper East Side bakery or specialty groceries throughout the city

When you buy a local rye bread in New York (with seeds or without), you’ll immediately taste the difference from those packaged mass produced brands. Check out my post on legendary Orwasher’s bakery.

25. Harlem Candle Company Souvenir

Locally owned Harlem based company
Available at Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Macy’s and here online
My current favorite scent is the Speakeasy candl e.

I’ve been friends with Harlem Candle founder Teri Johnson for nearly ten years now, as we are both in the same travel writing community. Teri served as my mentor in those early days, and has shared her own amazing collection of souvenirs (that’s me in the photo below taking pictures in her Harlem apartment).

I remember the early days when Teri was pouring candles and creating intoxicating scents from her Harlem apartment. Since then, her candles have taken off and grown into a multi-million dollar business, trading local markets for luxury retailers.

Teri not only creates candles that look gorgeous and smell divine, but she also generously supports other aspiring women, whether in the travel or business world.

26. Central Park Musical Souvenirs

Only in NYC souvenir, an experience like none other
Bring cash to buy Carlos’ CD

I wrote all an extensive post about my favorite Central Park musicians and how and when to see their free concerts in the park here. Take a bit of the experience home with you by picking up one of Carlos’ CDs or merch from Abraham’s band , Infinity Song.

27. Central Park Imagine Blanket Souvenir

Use your souvenir for a picnic in Central Park
Available at the onsite gift shop at the Dairy

I loved this souvenir so much I bought it for myself. Based on the Park’s Imagine mosaic, this blanket is perfect for park picnics.

28. Handcrafted Artisan Pin from Local Artist

Support a local NYC emerging artist
Cool, original art. Small pieces like pins are great to attach to backpacks and bags

Lubay is a charismatic and super talented local artist who often sets up shop at Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, where he sells his original paintings and handmade pins. Find Lubay on Instagram here .

29. Brooklyn Blackout Cake

Available at many bakeries throughout the city

If you are a chocolate fanatic may I introduce you to the chocolate-y goodness of Brooklyn Blackout cake, a rich chocolate cake filled with chocolate pudding. I wrote more about Brooklyn Blackout Cake in this post.

30. Fish Eddys NYC themed Dish Towel

Great all purpose gift item from NYC

Fish Eddys is a housewares store known for its one of a kind vintage dinnerware, sourcing its stock from defunct restaurants. It can be fun to rifle through their found stock, but for a less fragile souvenir, pick up one of their new items like these NYC themed dish towels.

31. NYC Sewer Coasters Souvenir

Available at City Store
Quirky NYC souvenir

I love souvenirs that are useful on a day to day basis, and these NYC sewer coasters fit the bill.

32. New York Pastrami Souvenir

Grab a loaf of Orwashers rye, some pastrami and make sandwiches at home for a fraction of the price of one sandwich

To sample delicious New York City pastrami, hit any of the classic Jewish delicatessen s and place your order to go by the pound. Famous spots like Katz’s deli often have mad crowds, whether it’s worth the wait is up to debate. I prefer to seek out a neighborhood deli (like Pastrami Queen in my photo above, a favorite of the late Anthony Bourdain) that never has a long wait.

33. Magnolia Banana Bread Pudding

Popular NYC cult food item

Magnolia Bakery may be better known for their cupcakes, but I know plenty of people who are obsessed with Magnolia’s Bread pudding, including a friend who has been known to pack several containers in her suitcase to take back to Germany. They usually have a the original banana bread pudding along with a special limited time flavor, which keeps pudding addicts coming back for more.

34. King Kong Souvenir

Empire state building kong plush iconic nyc souvenir

Iconic NYC souvenir for kids

This cute King Kong plush toy is designed to dangle wherever you attach him and makes a great kid gift after visiting the Empire State Building (available in their gift shop).

35. Mini Binoculars Souvenir from the Edge

Use your souvenir on the spot
Available at the Edge gift shop or pick up a pair of mini foldable ones online here

If you aren’t afraid of heights, the best views in my opinion are from the Edge in Hudson Yards. To better hone in on the details, pick up a souvenir pair of Edge branded mini binoculars.

36. Cannolis (or DIY Cannoli kit) from Veniero’s or Ferraro’s

Veniero's Pasticceria nyc edible souvenirs

NYC food souvenir
Bring home fresh cannolis or a DIY frozen cannoli kit to assemble at home

I love cannolis and there are lots of places to get excellent ones in NYC. My two favorite places are old school Italian bakeries, Veniero’s Pasticceria (since 1894) and Ferrara’s (since 1892). I’m not going to quibble over which is better, I recommend going to both.

37. NYC Bialy Souvenir

nyc best food souvenirs bialy where to buy

Available at most bagel shops

A near cousin to the bagel, bialys are similar in circumferance but easily distinguished by the flatter shape and a depression (typically filed with onions or other toppings) instead of a hole. Unlike bagels which are boiled, bialys are only baked, resulting in a –less dense and somewhat fluffier texture.

38. NYC Knish Souvenir

Available at Yonal Schimmel Knish Bakery for the biggest variety, or any bagel shop

A knish is a traditional snack food where a thin pastry coating envelops a filling (typically mashed potatoes, but it can vary).

39. NYC Water Tower Salt and Pepper Shakers Souvenir

water tower salt and pepper shakers nyc souvenir

Quirky but practical NYC gift or souvenir

Love them or hate them, those water towers looming on NYC buildings are a part of the New York skyline. These practical water tower salt and pepper shakers make for a quirky but useful NYC souvenir.

40. Eloise at the Plaza Souvenir

Iconic only-in-NYC souvenir
Available at Eloise Shop at the Plaza Hotel

“I am a city child. I live at the Plaza.” So says the pint-size heroine of one of the greatest children’s books ever written, Eloise at the Plaza .

I’ve previously written about a special Eloise tea at the Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel, followed by shopping for Eloise themed souvenirs at the gift shop (favorites are Eloise’s pinafore dress, bathrobe and handbag).

41. NYC Pizza Dough DIY Souvenir

NYC DIY food souvenir
Keep the dough packed in a cooler back to stay fresh

I can’t recommend bringing NYC pizza home as a souvenir– unless you live in the tri-state area and are eating it on the way home.

But a little known secret among New Yorkers: many pizza shops will sell you the dough right from their shop. Some will even sell the sauce and cheese. My friend Dani noted that a couple from Germany on her Pizza Walking tour picked up dough from Best Pizza in Brooklyn to bring home to Europe.

42. NBC Pillow Souvenir

How to get tickets Today show nyc rockefeller center

If you’ve every watched the Today Show, you will know that it is filmed in New York, at the famed Rockefeller Center. The Today Show encourages viewers worldwide to join in the broadcast live, with no need to secure advance tickets, just stand outside and join in the fun.

Right nearby in the plaza you can visit the NBC experience store for a NBC themed souvenir, like this cute NBC peacock pillow.

Thanks to Anna for this idea!

43. Limited Edition Beer from Brooklyn Brewery Souvenir

Limited edition, only in NYC souvenir beers
Fun tours and tastings
Take home options best for those who arrive by car

Brooklyn brewery is a fun visit, complete with tours and tastings. While you’ll find their beers nationwide, the brewery location has special limited edition bottles you can’t find anywhere else and make a nice souvenir for the beer lover.

4. NYC Broadway Musical Souvenir

Seeing a Broadway show is a special NYC experience, whether you bought your tickets in advance or scoured the discount sites last minute. To max out the experience, along with your playbill, why not bring home a souvenir unique to the show. Every large show will have a show specific gift shop with memorable items to bring home (like the cute Lion King plushies above).

45. U-Bet Chocolate Syrup

Available at Economy Candy, some grocery stores and here online

Long before Tiktokers “discovered” the charm of Lexington Candy Shop and their old school soda jerks, my readers knew exactly where to find the best egg cream when I published my blog post in 2014 (beating the craze by seven years!). To replicate the perfect egg cream soda like they make at old fashioned soda counters, pick up some Fox’s U-Bet syrup.

46. A Bag of Nostalgic Candy from Economy Candy

NYC edible food souvenir
Great treat for kids or kids at heart
Available at Economy Candy (since 1936!) on the Lower East Side

Whirly pops ? Candy cigarettes ? Marathon bars? Say no more, get your own dose of nostalgia at the always fun to browse Economy Candy Shop (preview the shop in my post I wrote here).

47. NYC Christmas Ornament Souvenir

I heart nyc ornament Iove nyc slogan ornament

Great for collectors of souvenir Christmas ornaments
Available at souvenir shops, museum gift shops and here online

Of my readers who collect specific types of souvenirs, the number one collection category is Christmas ornaments, you’ll find plenty to choose from at every tourist site.

48. NYC Kitschy Mini Trinket Souvenirs

Fun inexpensive NYC themed toys for kids
Can be used desk gadgets or ring holders
Available at souvenir shops and online

I’ve bought a little yellow NYC taxi car as gifts for kids and also as a fun addition to an adult gift bag. Any souvenir shop will have a version of them but I’m partial to this one with working lights . I like these mini Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building for holding rings.

49. LiLac Chocolates

Locations throughout the city

L4-Lac, Manhattan’s oldest chocolate shop, has been making small batch chocolates by hand since 1923. Sample one of the best sellers– nonpareils, butter crunch or salted caramels.

50. NYC Starbucks Mug

For coffee lovers and Starbucks souvenir mug collectors
Available at NYC Starbucks shops (designs may vary)

For those of you who collect Starbucks mugs when you travel– you know who you are , and we may have a guest post on said mugs written by a well-traveled writer friend– I am including the New York City mug as a nod to your obsession.

What Did We Miss? Comment below!

Souvenir Finder is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. There is no extra cost to you for using these links, thank you for your support and allowing me to provide you with high quality content at no charge to you.

Henrika Meyer

Tuesday 6th of June 2023

What an absolutely fabulous list of NYC souvenirs. The guide is well organized, fantastic variety and the the photos add an easy to locate visuals. And I love the locals perspective.

Kristin Francis

Thank you, it was a lot of thought and work into this post! I hope it will help you plan your next nyc vacation!

Things to do in London

What are Souvenirs and why do we buy them?

If the word ‘souvenir’ brings to mind one of those small novelty gifts you receive when someone in the family, or one of your friends, gets back on their holidays then quite rightly so. However, souvenirs are not always just miniature donkeys wearing sombreros from Spain or T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan 'Went to London and all I got was this lousy t-shirt...

What Are Souvenirs?

Although usually connected with holiday gift shop merchandise, the word ‘souvenir’ is actually a French word meaning remembrance or memory. Souvenirs are also referred to as keepsakes or mementoes and can be any item that somebody keeps for the memories they bring back.

Why Do We Buy Souvenirs?

Many people like to take a little something home with them as a reminder of their travels, something to show where they have been, something they can use to look back and reminisce about the fantastic experience they had during their holiday. Not to mention, displaying such a memento around the home can be a great conversation starter when you have guests. After all, buying souvenirs is part and parcel of the fun holiday experience.

Tourists also tend to take lots of gifts and novelties back home for friends, relatives and work colleagues. It’s a nice way to show you have been thinking of them while you have been away on your vacation.

Some of us just can’t resist walking into a gift shop and coming out with something. This can happen a lot especially if you are on holiday with children!

Nonetheless, souvenirs are not always linked with destinations though. Many people collect commemorative memorabilia of special events such as Royal Family weddings and merchandise to show support for their favourite popular football or basketball teams or even entertainment merchandise which features their favourite movies.

Souvenirs that are typical of a particular geographical location are often used as gifts at special events as well as wedding favours .

Buying Souvenirs Online

Nowadays lots of holidaymakers are doing their souvenir shopping online, sometimes even before or after they travel from the comfort of their own homes. This is mainly due to the increase in online shopping and the availability of such items on the Internet. There are many good reasons to do this and although many people prefer to pick up gifts during the actual trip, it is a great idea for those who don’t want to get to the airport lumbered with bags , because your order will be delivered to your door.

Without traipsing through shop after shop, trying to find the right gift at the right price, and remembering everyone you have to buy for, ordering through the internet conveniently allows you to make the most of your time on holiday and sort the presents out when it suits you best.

Also once your trip has come to an end, if you have forgotten to buy for someone, or in the unfortunate event that you may have lost or broken a souvenir that was very dear to you, you would be able to come across and purchase the same item on the internet to replace it.

If you are looking for some very special and unique gifts for your loved ones, then GS-JJ can help you with your customization needs. GS-JJ is a sub-brand of BPS.com, and they can help you with custom enamel pins , keychains, lanyards, patches, t-shirts, and more. Your loved one will be thrilled to receive an exclusive gift customized by you for her. It will be a sweet memory for you!

Free Souvenirs

A souvenir does not have to be something that has been purchased from a store. During your travels, there are quite a few delightful little objects that can be acquired along the way, which can more often than not have some sort of sentimental value over products that you have bought from a gift shop. These types of things could be quite possibly insignificant to someone else, although having a great deal of importance to the owner, and mean a lot as a symbol of an experience.

From travel-size toiletries from the hotel, you have stayed in (it’s always a nice idea to leave a tip) to stickers, badges and other treats for children that are frequently handed out in places such as theme parks. Or even cardboard coasters from various coffee shops, bars and restaurants where you have enjoyed your meal or evening out, there are numerous ideas for charming little keepsakes that can be picked up here and there.

Natural items such as shells, pine cones, pressed leaves and flowers are also quaint ideas for personal keepsakes which look spectacular when displayed in glass vases and jars.

Souvenirs From Around the World

Different parts of the world have their own version of souvenirs and collecting unique items from around the world is a wonderful way to commemorate your adventures or your love for that particular country or place.

There are so many different types of souvenir ideas to choose from. From the classics such as a Statue of Liberty replica from New York, an Eiffel Tower model from Paris, Russian Matryoshka dolls, miniature Dutch Clogs or a Leaning Tower of Pisa figurines from Italy to the more obscure, unique gift ideas .

An authentic item which has actually been made in the country you have travelled to is a superb idea, such as a decorative marble plate from India, a traditional wooden Kokeshi doll from Japan or even possum wool gloves from New Zealand for example.

Food that you can’t buy at home is another good souvenir idea, especially for foodies and people who have limited space to keep hold of decorative items or for those who are a bit difficult to buy. Besides, who wouldn’t fancy a green tea-flavoured Kit Kat from Japan?

London Souvenirs

London is a hugely popular shopping destination, pulling in thousands of tourists from around the world each year. There are so many shops offering multitudes of gift ideas , that you can really end up spoilt for choice. To make things easier, we have put together a breakdown of a few of the great gifts that you can take home from the city.

Classic London Souvenirs

Some of the best souvenirs you can buy in London include:

The red Routemaster bus is a well-known symbol of London and loved by many. It is not surprising that Double Decker bus models are exceedingly popular souvenirs and collector’s items. A vibrant red die-cast replica of a London bus would make a fantastic addition to any model collection.

Any avid model collector will tell you that a replica Black cab is a must-have. The jet-black London taxi which can be seen around the city is a striking icon of London and is acknowledged internationally as a symbol of the British capital.

A visit to the capital is incomplete without casting your eyes over the iconic London skyline and hearing the chimes of Big Ben resonating throughout the city. Why not capture the magnificence of this distinguished London clock tower with a stunning replica Big Ben model, complete with a real working clock?

Fridge Magnets

Magnets are very good for keeping important notes on hand by sticking them to your fridge door. Not only will you keep track of those to-do lists, but you can also keep magnets featuring the places you liked the most during your visit to the capital. Any collection of fridge magnets from around the world is incomplete without a magnet from London!

Keyrings are great for personalising your belongings when you are out and about. They are popular collector’s items and one of the most liked souvenirs. A no-nonsense gift idea as it is good for keeping your keys secure and serves as the perfect reminder of your stay in the great city of London.

English Tea

Tea is the quintessential gift from England. Give the gift of tea or get with the British tea-drinking culture yourself with one of these fantastic decorative tea caddies filled with the finest blends of English tea.

London Souvenirs by Theme

You can buy matching souvenirs from London with different themes which include:

Keep Calm and Carry On

The famed Keep Calm motto, which adorns numerous souvenirs from mugs to iPhone covers, has taken its inspiration from motivational British wartime posters. Often worded in white on a vibrant red background, there are many variations of the text such as ‘Keep Calm and Drink Tea’ and ‘Keep Calm in London’.

I Love London

If you love London, then say it out loud with one of these fab mementoes incorporating the trendy I ‘heart’ London slogan, which will be happily received by anyone who loves the English capital. This distinctive design usually includes a red love heart on a white or black background.

Items featuring the Union flag make for a very British gift and the dynamic red, white and blue design is immensely popular around the world. Union flags, bunting and Union Jack souvenirs are ideal for British-themed parties. Also, clothing featuring the Union Jack can be worn to show your support at special events or as a fashion statement.

Everything London

There is a vast range of unmistakably British souvenirs that feature colourful compilations of well-known London images. These are great as many of the famous places you may have visited during your stay in the capital have been captured onto one object and will bring back several fond memories whenever you see it.

7 Best London Souvenirs for Kids

When shopping for presents, usually the first people who come to mind are the little ones. Sometimes it can be difficult to choose what to buy for children, therefore we have put together a compilation of some of the most popular London souvenirs and gifts for children, so you can't go wrong.

1. School Kits

Make going back to school after a trip to London more fun with a school kit or pencil case featuring images of the places that your children have seen. They will enjoy sharing their holiday stories with their friends in school too.

2. Royal Guard Teddy Bear

Everyone adores a cute and cuddly teddy bear and these soft and fluffy bears dressed in their Royal Guardsman attire are no exception to the rule. These teddies are well-liked by children of all ages and are superb for giving that London look as part of the children's room decor.

3. T-Shirts

There is nothing like a T-shirt to show you have been to London and as well as being light in weight to take home, they make practical gift ideas for children, especially if you are not planning on buying more toys or you have a lot of kids to buy for.

4. Mini Cooper Model Car

Lots of children love to play with toy cars and the Mini Cooper complete with a Union Jack roof is a classic gift from the UK. These models are so realistic as you can open and close the doors and due to the friction wheels, you can pull the vehicle back and then watch it go. We are sure plenty of adults will love these too!

5. Wristbands

Kids and teenagers love to collect wristbands that promote the things they love and snap wristbands are particularly cool because of the way they wrap around and secure themselves when gently tapped against the wrist.

6. Post Box Money Box

This vivid red replica post box is a great idea as a piggy bank for children to keep their pocket money as you can post the coins through the letter box slot just like you would post your letters in a British pillar box.

7. Soft Toy Corgi Dog

It is a well-known fact that the Queen of England adores her Pembroke Welsh Corgis and any dog lover, young or old, would most definitely welcome one of these brilliant toy Corgi dogs , complete with a Union Jack coat and lead.

5 Posh Gifts from London

If you are looking for that extra special gift from London for a loved one, something really fancy that you won't find in regular gift shops. We suggest anything from a collectable tin caddy of tea , biscuits or a lavish box of chocolates from Fortnum and Mason or perhaps a beautifully scented candle by Molten Brown. For that special someone in your life who loves their smellies, then luxury bath and body products by Crabtree and Evelyn are a must. Here is a breakdown of five great ideas to get you started.

1. This Luxury Teddy Bear Snow Globe is a perfect memento of a trip to Harrods.

2. This Household Blend Tea in a Heritage Caddy from Fortnum and Mason would make a stunning addition to any kitchen.

3. This Ylang-Ylang Single Wick Candle by Molten Brown would be a welcomed gift to anyone who loves their indulgently scented candles.

4. An elegantly packaged Rosewater Bath & Body Duo by Crabtree and Evelyn, comprising two skin-indulging luxuries and conveniently presented in a gift box with their striking spring design is a wonderful gift idea for her.

5. This 100ml bottle of Neapolitan Bergamot Eau de Cologne by Crabtree and Evelyn, with its classically Italian-inspired citrus aromatic blend would make a fantastic gift from London for him.

Oh, I love how you mentioned that a souvenir can be something that you can just acquire on the way without spending money. Still, I think it's always fun to look for shirts in place to which you travel. That way, you can be reminded of a fun adventure every time you look in the mirror.

I'm glad you talked about how Mini Cooper models are great gifts for adults. Next month I'll be in London for a vacation and I need a good list of souvenirs to take back to my family. Thanks for the tips and I'll keep this in mind as I travel across the pond.

I like how you said that people can buy souvenirs to remember their travels by or as novelty gifts for friends and family. I feel like both are great ideas because the item that you buy gets sentimental value whether it's for yourself or for someone else. That item will be cherished and used to remember the vacation or the person who gave them the gift.

Very excellent piece you've shared here. Thumbs up for a great job.

thumbs up for sharing this! Hoping to visit London soon for these cool stuff souvenirs

My family is taking a trip to Texas. I have young kids that will want souvenirs and I like your tips. I especially like that you said that they can be a great part of the holiday season.

I totally agree with what you said that bringing back souvenirs to your friends and family is an indication that you're thinking of them while you're away. I'm planning a backpacking trip soon, because I really need a breather from my responsibilities at home. I appreciate my wife for allowing me to go alone, but I'll surely be thinking of her and the kids while I'm away. That being said, before I get home, I'll make sure get them wonderful souvenirs from a good shop in town.

can e talk about the political and economical state of the world right now

I agree with what you said about how buying souvenirs is part of the fun holiday experience since they will serve as a reminder of your travels and be used to look back on the experience. I'm going on a business trip to Texas next week, so I was thinking of getting souvenirs and for my friends once I'm done will all the work the company tasked me to do. I was planning to buy Bluebonnet gifts once I find a souvenir shop there.

I completely agree with you when you mentioned that giving your friends and family mementos from your trip shows that you are thinking of them while you are gone. This is precisely the reason I want to buy my pals mugs as presents on my return from my holiday trip. We all enjoy hot lattes, so I thought matching cups would be good.

I agree that it's best to buy a souvenir that is authentic and made in the country that a person has traveled to. My only mistake was that I missed the part about souvenir buying when I visited Japan. My sister is asking for something, so right now, I guess I'll just go shopping in a local Japanese store.

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26 Best Souvenirs from Malaysia to Bring Home With You

Malaysia is a wonderful country filled with diverse experiences and a charming ambiance that’s easy to love. I know because when I first visited the country a few years ago, I was so smitten that I almost missed my flight back (a story for another time, I assure you!).

While not everyone has a chance to travel frequently to Malaysia , you can certainly satisfy your wanderlust or make lasting memories by bringing home some unique souvenirs from Malaysia to remember your trip.

Not sure what to get? I’ve got you, fam! Check out these 26 best souvenirs from Malaysia to bring home with you after your trip!

Table of Contents

When it comes to souvenirs from Malaysia, my personal favorite to bring home for my friends and family is batik, a traditional fabric adorned with colorful patterns suitable for both casual and formal outings.

While batik isn’t exclusively a Malaysian souvenir — you can also find these artfully-designed fabrics in many countries in Southeast Asia — I personally prefer Malaysian batik because of the larger, more colorful patterns on the fabric, a result of the unique brush painting technique that is used in its production. Most batik fabric uses canting, a precision pen-like tool.

You can buy batik either in its original form (a large piece of cloth) or look for batik-print clothing.

Full disclosure, kebaya is one of the Malaysian souvenirs that I’ve never personally bought before (for obvious reasons you’ll discover as you read on). However, every time I see it, I can’t help but be bewitched by its elegance.

For the uninitiated, kebaya is a traditional long-sleeved top for women (hence why I’ve never bought it) that is characterized by the top cinching at the waist to accentuate the figure of its wearer. It is often made with either lace or cotton and adorned with vibrant prints and embroidery.

Despite being a fashion trademark of Malaysia’s Malay and Peranakan communities, kebaya is something that is worn by all races in Malaysia and is even the uniform of the country’s national airline!

Fun fact : It’s easy to spot which style of kebaya is a modernized version and which is a traditional one. Traditional kebaya often features deep, jeweled colors while modern ones use a lighter, pastel tone.

Unidentified Malay woman weaves local Malay cloth (songket) beneath a wooden house in Terengganu, Malaysia

If you DO manage to buy a kebaya, then another souvenir from Malaysia you should get to pair with it is the songket , another one of the unique things to buy in Malaysia.

The songket is a handwoven fabric that consists of a piece of silk or cotton cloth interwoven with silver and gold threads, giving it an elevated, majestic appearance. It is often worn by Malay men and women in Malaysia together with other pieces of traditional clothing for formal and ceremonial occasions, like weddings.

4. Nyonya beaded slippers or clog

Apart from beautifully striking tops, traditional Malaysian clothing also includes fashionable slippers!

Made famous for the Peranakan community, beaded slippers are exactly as their name sounds — a pair of slippers that are adorned with intricately hand-beaded designs. They are colorful and extremely pleasing to look at but are better suited as indoor footwear.

Similarly, you can also purchase a pair of wooden clogs, a fading piece of traditional clothing in Malaysia that used to be worn in the bathroom to avoid slippery surfaces.

5. Pua kumbu

young female lady wearing traditional sarawak costume call `Pua Kumbu` and holding balloon at park

As I write this article, I am comfortably wrapped up in my pua kumbu , arguably my favorite Malaysian souvenir (not counting the edible ones, of course!).

Commonly found in East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), pua kumbu is a woven textile that is mainly made of colorful cotton threads. Supposedly, the designs on the fabrics are inspired by the dreams of the weavers and traditionally, the pua kumbu is used as ceremonial cloth by indigenous tribes.

That said, it can also double up as a blanket and — I can confirm, it is extremely cozy!

If you love cultural history and martial arts, I’m pretty sure this is going to be one of your favorite souvenirs from Malaysia.

The keris is a traditional, ceremonial dagger often wielded by Malaysian kings and those of high social status but is also common enough that many Malay households have one. It features an asymmetrical blade and is often associated with the cultural history and heritage of the Malays, often being passed down from one generation to the next.

While they are certainly beautiful to look at, a keris is still an actual dagger, hence you may find it difficult to bring it home with you. Instead, opt for a wooden decorative keris instead.

7. Wooden handicrafts

Traditional game called gasing or tops spinning

Speaking of wooden decorations, did you know that Malaysia is home to some of the best timber wood in the world? That’s what I found out when I first visited the country. To put it frankly, I was stunned by the vast amount of wooden furniture pieces I saw everywhere I went!

While wood furniture probably isn’t the easiest Malaysian souvenir to bring home, you can also hunt for plenty of delicate wooden handicrafts in traditional markets, such as cutlery, utensils, and more. There are also decorative plaques that feature intricate paintings!

8. Rattan handicrafts

showroom displaying rattan handicrafts and furniture

Another unique type of souvenir from Malaysia that makes for awesome presents is rattan handicrafts.

Made mostly by hand using natural rattan shoots, rattan handicrafts give off a rustic and appealing vibe. In fact, you’ll find plenty of rattan furniture in Malaysia, as well as household items like baskets, woven mats, and more, the latter of which make for memorable gifts.

9. Traditional games and toys

If you took a trip to Kuala Lumpur, you’ll realize that most Malaysians are almost always on their phones. However, before smartphones took over, the people of Malaysia spent their time enjoying traditional games and toys that double up as authentic Malaysian souvenirs to bring home.

Some of the most popular ones include gasing (wooden tops), congkak (a traditional game played with pebbles or marbles), takrwa ( rattan ball ), and more.

10. Traditional musical instruments from Borneo

young Ifugao man playing a bamboo nose flute locally known as ""kaleleng" in Kota Kinabalu

One of the reasons why I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Sarawak was because of the rich aboriginal culture and I’m sure many others will agree too. If you’d like to bring a piece of this vibrant culture home with you, then one of the most unique Malaysian products you can buy is traditional musical instruments.

While bringing home bulky instruments is perhaps a tad over-ambitious, you can look for instruments like kiromboi (an instrument made with giant sea snail shells), keringot (a nose flute), or even wooden guiros that produce sounds mimicking the therapeutic music of the Borneon rainforest.

11. Pearls

Beautiful Handmade Bracelet Pearl Original Freshwater Genuine Pearl with Gemstones from Sabah Malaysia

Believe it or not, even some Malaysians may not immediately think of pearls when speaking about Malaysian souvenirs. That’s because they are mostly found along the shores of Sabah, where there are plenty of pearl farms.

When staying in Sabah, a local friend brought me to some of the jewelry stores and I saw plenty of pieces that featured different hues of pearls. Whether you’re looking for some eye-catching like a bracelet or something more subtle like earrings, you’ll find plenty of these made-in-Malaysia products to bring home for your loved ones.

12. Kerongsang

Brooch in different pattern,color and design on red velvet

On the subject of jewelry and fashion accessories, you’ll likely notice some flowery pin-like items when visiting traditional gift shops in Kuala Lumpur and Penang . These are called kerongsang , traditional brooches that are used to dress up traditional Malay attire like the aforementioned kebaya.

Don’t let the kerongsang ’s minute size fool you — these unassuming accessories can sometimes cost up to hundreds and thousands of dollars, especially those that are adorned with precious gems. Don’t worry though because if you’re planning on buying one for your friends and family, you can also find more modest ones made of polymer clay.

13. Cucuk Sanggul

bride wearing Malay traditional hairpins hair clips and traditional costume called songket

Matching the ornate elegance of the kerongsang is the cucuk sanggul , a traditional hairpin accessory commonly used by women of all races in Malaysia to keep their hair in a bun.

As someone from Hong Kong, I have to admit, it reminded me of the old hairpins that empresses in China used to wear, albeit with a much different design. Cucuk Sanggul usually feature flowery or leafy designs and are often made of brass or gold. In the old days, they were reserved for weddings but are much more common these days.

14. Pewter goods

Pewter in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. One of the world's leading pewter is in Kuala Lumpur

Did you know that the world’s largest retailer of pewter (a metal alloy consisting of copper, tin, and silver) goods is found in Malaysia? Royal Selangor is one of the most famous made-in-Malaysia brands and is known for delivering some of the best quality pewter goods in the world.

You can find these Malaysian souvenirs at several Royal Selangor gift shops in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, where you can take your pick from a wide range of products including cutlery, decorative items, and even pop culture collectibles on occasion!

15. Labu Sayong

Handmade traditional craft known as 'labu sayong' normally used as gift or souvenir found in Perak,Malaysia

Looking for a decorative Malaysian souvenir that may also be used for practical reasons? Then on your next trip to Perak (think Ipoh), be sure to look out for the labu sayong .

Simply put, the labu sayong is a traditional gourd-shaped jar made of clay and is traditionally used to keep water cool against the hot Malaysian weather. It is also said to have healing properties but that is largely untested.

These days, however, the jars are mostly displayed in houses as decorative items. If you’re looking for some unique things to buy from Malaysia, definitely include this!

man holding intricately designed Malaysian kite called wau

One of the most iconic Malaysian pastimes is found on the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, specifically in the state of Kelantan.

I remember seeing a wau , a traditional Malaysian kite, for the very first time. Being from Hong Kong, I barely had any opportunities to fly kites, but even I knew that most paper kites look simple and bland. Not the wau . In contrast, the wau I saw featured a unique design and an extremely elegant design, filled with vibrant colors and motifs. This, as I was told by a local, was the standard look.

While it’s probably difficult to bring a wau back with you without crushing it, you can opt to bring these Malaysian souvenirs home in the shape of keychains or small wall decor. That’s what I did!

17. Medicinal oils (Gamat and nutmeg oil)

Like many other Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia has no shortage of herbal medicinal oils. While they are not for everyone, these oils certainly make great souvenirs from Malaysia for those who believe in their therapeutic properties.

The two most popular oils in Malaysia are gamat (sea cucumber) oil, which is said to be effective in healing wounds and alleviating toothaches; and nutmeg oil which supposedly treats headaches, intestinal discomfort, joint pains, and more.

Gamat oil is most often found in Langkawi while nutmeg oil can be commonly found in pharmacies and some gift shops in Penang.

18. Herbs and spices

Even though I’ve only been to Malaysia a couple of times, I can safely say that Malaysian food is some of the best you’ll ever eat. My friends say it’s mainly because of the rich variety of herbs and spices that go into the cuisine.

If you’d like to bring home some of that Malaysian culinary goodness with you, try getting some of its popular herbs and spices. Most of these are sold either in a pre-cooked paste or as spice packets.

My favorite though has to be Sarawakian peppercorns. Not only do they pack a punch, they’re fragrant and extremely versatile too as an ingredient. Definitely one of the best things to buy in Malaysia!

19. Chinese pastries

Penang famous local delight Tau Sar Pneah or Green Bean Biscuit

If you prefer ready-to-eat souvenirs instead, you’re in luck. Listen, Hong Kong has plenty of amazing pastries and bakeries, but the Chinese pastries in Malaysia really hit different.

There are so many different types of traditional (and those with a modern twist) Chinese biscuits in the country, especially in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Ipoh. Whether you’re looking for tau sar pneah (mung bean paste biscuits) or heong peah (a crispy biscuit with malt filling), you’ll find many Chinese bakeries in Malaysia that sell them in neatly packaged gift boxes that are perfect for gift-giving.

20. Coffee, tea, or mee?

small packs of Old Town White Coffee 3 in 1 Hazelnut

I realize that whenever tourists visit Hong Kong, they like to bring home some of our instant noodle packets and milk tea bags as a souvenir. It was only after arriving for my holiday there that I realized the same can be said of Malaysia!

Malaysia has plenty of Malaysian products and snacks that make for great souvenirs, but what I found most interesting was the wide array of instant coffee, tea, and noodles on sale in pretty much every grocery store and supermarket.

For coffee lovers, you’ll find a variety of fragrant instant coffees, such as the famous Ipoh White Coffee and Nanyang Coffee while those who prefer tea will love the BOH tea bags that come straight from the Cameron Highlands.

For those who enjoy the odd instant noodle supper, I recommend snapping up a few packets of the Maggi Curry Mee, a popular snack among locals.

21. Sarawak layer cake

Malaysian dessert known as Kek Lapis Sarawak or Sarawak layered cake with white background

That said, I feel like my favorite Malaysian snack souvenir, at least up till now, is the colorful Sarawak layer cake.

As the name suggests, this unique Malaysian souvenir is most often found in Sarawak. It is basically a colorful layer cake that is sweet, and savory and often comes flavored with fragrant pandan leaves. Its great taste is matched by its signature bedazzling designs.

Most tourists who visit Sarawak return home with a few boxes of these cakes to share with their loved ones. While there are plenty of flavours to choose from, I highly recommend the original pandan flavor for the best indulgence.

Do take note that the cakes can only be kept for a limited amount of time, so don’t be shy to dig in once you arrive home!

22. Durian-flavored snacks

Durian cookies is one of the popular cookies during Eid Mubarak (Hari Raya) in Malaysia

Some of you might look at me weird after this, but I really like durian, which is a problem because imported durians in Hong Kong cost quite a fortune and, frankly, don’t taste half as good as the ones in Malaysia or Thailand.

While it’s impossible and probably illegal in some countries to bring fresh fruit, especially one that smells like durian, into the airport, you can buy some Malaysian snacks that are durian-flavored!

My favorites include durian-flavored popcorn and chips, durian cookies, and a peculiar type of confectionery called a dodol .

Malaysia melaka dodol with white background

The reason why I’ve listed dodol as a separate item is that I feel it is unique enough to deserve its own spot. While I love durian-flavored dodol , even in its original form, this decadent confectionery is a Malaysian souvenir that those with a sweet tooth will love.

Simply put, dodol is a sweet and chewy, toffee-like candy that’s made from palm sugar and coconut milk. It is most often found in places with a rich Peranakan heritage, so think of gift shops in Penang and Melaka as your go-to place to find these delectable treats!

24. Nasi lemak chips

Hand holding Nasi Lemak potato chips from Kantin lab

Okay, I’ll admit, the inclusion of this particular made-in-Malaysia snack is 100% personal bias at work. Look, the first time I tried nasi lemak — arguably Malaysia’s national dish, I absolutely fell in love with the fragrance of the coconut rice and the spicy sambal.

It’s hard to find that in Hong Kong, especially ones that don’t cost a fortune. So when I stumbled upon these nasi lemak -flavored chips from a local Malaysian snack company, I got so addicted to it that I went back and bought a whole bulk to bring back home.

And just to be clear, these aren’t just crinkle-cut ships that are seasoned with nasi lemak flavor. Inside the packet, I also found fried anchovies and peanuts. It really felt like I was eating the proper version of the dish but in chip form!

Also read: 40 Essential Things to Know About Malaysian Food Culture

25. A half-boiled egg maker

Sticking to Malaysian foods that took my heart, a unique Malaysian breakfast that some people take a while to get used to is kaya toast with boiled eggs — crispy coconut jam on toast served with a side of partially cooked eggs.

The way to eat it is to dip the toast into the still-runny eggs, seasoned with soy sauce and pepper. Imagine my surprise when I found out that there was an actual kitchen tool in Malaysia that was created just to make these “half-boiled” eggs!

It is an ingenious invention and it’s so easy to use. Just put in a couple of eggs and add hot water and wait for the water to run out. It’s definitely one of the most unique Malaysian souvenirs I can think of, and one that just gets you closer to the wonderful taste of Malaysian food!

26. Modern artisanal Malaysian souvenirs

Apart from the conventional Malaysian souvenirs I’ve listed so far, I’ve noticed during my most recent trip to Kuala Lumpur that artisanal souvenirs in Malaysia are on the rise.

Whether it be vibrant print T-shirts, organic bath soaps, woven bags, or (more) delicious snacks, there are plenty of stores where you can score one-of-a-kind made-in-Malaysia products to bring home.

I may be wrong in this because I only stuck to these areas when I was there, but the Bukit Bintang area and Pasar Seni is where you want to go to score some awesome local products and souvenirs.

Where to buy Malaysian souvenirs?

Souvenir display in Filipino market souvenir market in Sabah Borneo, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Now I’m pretty sure the question in your mind is “where to find the best gift shops in Malaysia?”.

To be honest, many of the Malaysian souvenirs (such as instant noodles, herbs and spices) I mentioned are so popular that you can pretty much find them anywhere. You can easily buy these gifts in supermarkets like Lotus’s, AEON, and Jaya Grocer. Meanwhile, kebaya and songket are so common that they can be found in most Malay clothing stores throughout the country.

However, for some of the more unique things to buy in Malaysia, there are certain locations that are more famous than others. For example, the best batik can be found along the predominantly Malay-majority states of Kelantan and Terengganu. That said, if you’re looking for batik-print clothing, check out batikTEKTURA and Batik Boutique in Kuala Lumpur, and Batek Lah in Penang.

For food souvenirs, drop by Him Heang in Penang and Happiness Confectionery in Ipoh for Chinese pastries, shops along Jonker Street in Melaka for dodol and other confectionery, and Kantin Lab where you can buy those mouthwatering nasi lemak chips.

For other nifty trinkets like wooden or rattan handicrafts, your best bet is to visit traditional markets like Pasar Seni in Kuala Lumpur or clothing stores like Pestle Mortar Clothing .

Final thoughts

And there you have it: 26 best souvenirs from Malaysia to bring home with you and where to look for them!

It’s also important to note that many of the most popular Malaysian souvenirs (save for traditional toys like wau can also be bought online, so you don’t necessarily have to travel to each particular region just to buy something, although that is admittedly more fun!

If you’re in the mood for more shopping, check out the best souvenirs in Switzerland and Greece too!

1 thought on “26 Best Souvenirs from Malaysia to Bring Home With You”

I worked in Malaysia and Sarawak for a few years. I am now retired in Canada. Now I want to buy a car badge to be mounted on a badge bar on my MGB but not having much success. The Malaysian web site asks for a email address which I give but then asks for a password and there is none for email address!! Tried “Lazada” in Malaya with no success. Somehow the web site builders do not realise that people have to be able to use them!!

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Introduction:

The California Travel Planning Guide aims to provide prospective visitors of Disneyland with information about the theme park, particularly about the activities that they can do, the places that they can go to, and the souvenir items that they can purchase within the theme park.

This progress memo provides information about the project’s status to date, with the due date scheduled on July 27, 2012.

The project started on July 20, 2007 and will end on July 27, 2012. The Project is divided into the following major tasks: Project Planning, Brochure Design, Content Creation, and the Report.

LESSON PLAN FOR ENGLISH TEACHERS

Buying souvenirs.

Level: Elementary (A1-A2)

Type of English: General English

Tags: shops and services travel and leisure shopping shopping Situation based

Publication date: 06/11/2017

In this dialogue-aided lesson, students learn and use words for different souvenirs. Learners listen to a conversation between a tourist and a shop assistant, and practice buying souvenirs.

Ex2_British_English.mp3

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22 best malaysian souvenirs that you can bring back home from malaysia.

Malaysia is known around for its amazing tourist scenes and the exquisite range of items that you can indulge in. While this place is one of the best ones in terms of a budget-friendly holiday, you are bound to end up spending more on the shopping sprees. Buying some Malaysian souvenirs would be a great idea, as they are followed by some of the best memories of the trip.

Table of Contents

Why buy souvenirs from Malaysia?

When it comes to souvenirs, they are more than just material. It is the emotion behind it that signifies its importance. If you have been planning on visiting Malaysia , it is a must that you get some token of memorials for you and your friends, mainly because they are the best as gifts, and perfect for you to take a part of Malaysia back home with you.

If you are planning on visiting Malaysia and have already been swamped by your friends asking you to get some souvenirs from Malaysia for them, we have got you covered. Here are some of the best things to buy in Malaysia.

Best Malaysian Souvenirs & Where to Buy From Kuala Lumpur

If you are wondering what is so great about the souvenirs in Malaysia, it is the uniqueness and the variety of the things you get there that makes it stand out of the rest. So, let us take a look at some of the best kinds of souvenirs, shall we?

1. Baju Kebaya

If you are into clothes and traditional wears, then Baju Kebaya is a must buy. These are body-hugging embroidered Malay attire, which is worn by women during the parties and events. Predominantly, the two come in two fabrics of Batik and Songket. It is always best ensured that you give it a trial before purchasing it.

The speciality of this dress is the traditional and cultural significance behind it. Additionally, the style and the fabrics also stand out of the rest of them.

From where: Zakir Batik, M27, 28, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi,50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price: The complete set will cost you RM100 approx

2. Pewter Goods

Pewter Goods are yet another common souvenir items that the majority of the people from around Malaysia tend to indulge in. The best pieces that one should buy include the kitchenware, without fail. Often, you will also find several similar dupes of the Pewter items in the market for a reduced price, but those aren’t the authentic ones.

The intricacy of the design and the look of these Pewter items is what makes it a unique souvenir to get back home.

From where: Zakir Craft, K42, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi,50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price: RM100 to RM350, depending on what you are getting

3. Handwoven crafts

Yet another typical souvenir that you can bring back home from Malaysia includes the hand-woven crafts. They are not just intricately designed, but each one of them is unique and one of a kind. The local craftsmen are the one who weaves each one of these and is often made from bamboo, coconut shells or even pandan leaves at times.

The best thing about these is the fact that each one of them is made uniquely by the handicraft artists around. They also support the local craftsmen, so try and not bargain a lot because they are already sold for a low price.

From where: Asli Kraft, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi,50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price: RM5 to above depending on what you are buying

4. Malaysian Dodol

If you are wondering what dodol is, it is a local toffee-like sweet with a chewy and caramel texture to it. The traditional form is typically dark brown in colour, but with time, the same is now available in a number of flavours, including Pandan as well as Durian dodol. This is one of the best gifts from Malaysia that you can bring back for food lovers.

The taste and the unique texture of this definitely do stand out of the rest. It is also readily available and can be brought back home easily, which is an added bonus.

From where: Pak Lang Dodol, NS32, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi,50050 Kuala Lumpur.
Approx Price: RM25 for a large packet

Fabrics are quite popular around in Malaysia, and Songket is definitely one of them. It is nothing but fabrics with interwoven gold and silk threads to bring out the luxurious end to it. It is predominantly costly, so if budget is a problem for you, think twice. The fabric can be used in many things, from a handkerchief to wall hangings.

The tradition and the history behind the advent of this fabric are what sets it apart as one of the essential souvenirs to get from Malaysia.

From where: Peninsular Arts & Borneo Crafts, KB09, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi,50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price: RM40 and more depending on what you buy

6. Pua Kumbu

Also made from dyed threads, Pua Kumbu is one of the most popular ones which is used in the production of cotton fabrics. It is a very simple piece of clothing which is used as a bedcover or even sometimes as a blanket.

The fabric is seen as sacred among the Orang Asli tribe in Malaysia where they treat it as their ceremonial cloth.

From where: Aseana Gallery, G16-G18, Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur City Centre,50088 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price: RM75 and above

7. Malaysian Batik

The uniqueness of this fabric lies in the smoothness of it. It is nothing but a silk or cotton fabric which is made with the unique wax and dye method. They are sold either as just the fabric or even in clothing or decorative items around the house.

The process of production of this fabric using the wax and dye method is what sets it apart as an important souvenir to take back some memories of Malaysia with you.

From where: Koleksi Melayu, M15, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi,50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price : RM35 and above, depending on what you are getting.

8. Kerongsang

Next on the list of the souvenirs to get from Malaysia is yet traditional accessory to the attire, otherwise known as Kerongsang . It is a brooch which is predominantly worn with the Baju Kebaya during parties. It consists of three parts – headscarf and the two sets separately. You can either get a smaller one or even the larger one, depending on your requirements. It is the perfect souvenir from Malaysia for someone who loves colourful stones.

The authenticity behind this is what makes it unique and something that everyone definitely needs to pay heed to. Small and easy to carry.

From where: Zakir Batik, M27, 28, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi, Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price : RM 15 and above depending on the item

9. Labu Sayong

Getting this back from Malaysia might not be the easiest because of the shape of the jar, but this gourd-shaped jar is one of the most common souvenirs that the majority of the tourists get back. The best factor about this jar is the fact that the water than you store in this always stays cold.

Apart from the water staying cold, you will also find that it helps in ensuring that it is believed to possess natural healing and curing properties, which are definitely a bonus.

From where: Asli Kraft, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price : RM 20 and above

10. Nyonya Beaded Slippers

The delicate intricacies in these slippers are what makes it stand out of the crowd as one of the most popular souvenirs to get from Malaysia. They are individually handwoven and embedded with flowers, beads, and bird motifs to further accentuate the look.

It is a peep-toed slipper which represents a fantastic tale of the history behind the descendants of Malay and Chinese.

From where: Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex, Seksyen 63, Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur. You can also get them from the Night Market at Jonker Street in Malacca .
Approx Price : Starts from RM80

11. Sabah Pearls

If you are into jewelry and pearls, getting Sabah pearls from Malaysia is a must-do. They do come in several hues of pink, white, beige, and even bluish grey, which is what makes them so different. You can either get them just as they are or have them woven into jewelry pieces as you like.

The uniqueness in the natural color of the pearls is what makes it stand out of the rest. They are also very reasonably priced for such high-quality pearls.

From where: Borneo Pearls, G63 & G64, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price: starts from RM10

12. Congkak

Much like how people know Chess as “THE” board game, Congkak is the popular one available in Malaysia. It is not as easy as it seems and does require calculative steps and mental rundown to get the best results. It consists of two rows that further consist of 6-10 holes in them along with one big hole. The game is played with wood seeds or marbles.

The uniqueness of the games and the kind of thought process it requires is what makes it such a popular board game that you definitely need to get back home.

Approx Price: RM45 and above

13. Cucuk Sanggul

The unique thing about this accessory is the fact that they are very popularly used in the weddings to accessorize the look

From where: Tuah KTC, M17, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx price : Depends on what kind of material you are getting it made of

14. Wau Kite

Just as the name suggests, Wau Kite is a traditional Malay kite. They are part of some of the important events and competitions that happen every year around where men from across the country come to participate. There are several variants of this available in different shapes and sizes. Wua Bulan is the one that stands out of the rest in terms of popularity.

The competitions held with these kites are one of the best and an essential aspect of it that you need to get home a piece of.

From where: Ka50, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi, 50050 Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price: RM 20 and above

15. Boh Tea

You can never go wrong with getting tea as a souvenir from Malaysia, and the Boh Tea is one of the most popular ones. It has a plethora of flavors for you to check out and get some for the family and friends back home.

The taste and the organic quality is what sets it apart.

From where: Supermarkets
Approx Price : RM5 for a pack

16. Old Town White Coffee Products

The Old Town is one of the most popular brands available in Malaysia, and the coffee products are just too good to miss out on. They have been brewing the best since 1999 and have garnered a big market.

It has a blend of 3 different coffee beans for that robust flavor and taste.

From where: Old town cafes and the supermarkets
Price: RM15 for a pack

17. Durian Chocolate

While this spiky tropical fruit is an acquired taste and not loved by many, the Durian chocolate does make up for an amazing souvenir if you come to ask of it. They have a very subtle taste of the fruit, which is quite amazing.

The slowly infused blend of the fruit makes up for a delicious treat.

From where: Pak Lang Dodol, Central Market Annexe, Jalan Hang Kasturi, Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price : RM15-20 for a box

18. Chinese Medicines and herbs

You can’t go wrong with this because of the full range of natural medicines and herbs that are available around in Malaysia. The best ones are found in Jalan Petaling and do make up for all your requirements. You can ask the vendors, and they’ll hook you up with the best medicines and herbs.

Amazing for some health issues like headache, sinuses, etc.

From where: Jalan Petaling, Kuala Lumpur
Approx Price: RM15 for an entire bag

It is one of the most fun yet traditional Malaysian souvenirs that you can buy. Sumpit is a blowgun which was used for hunting in the previous days. They aren’t easily accessible, so you do need to look around for them.

The blowgun and the target were used to be soaked in poison to kill the animals back in the days.

From where: Airport shops
Approx price: depends on where you are getting

20. Bird’s Nest Soup

Next on the agenda is the Bird’s nest soup, which is a common persistence in every Malay household and a popular Malaysian souvenir. The taste might be off-putting, but it actually is amazing for your overall health.

It helps in improving your immune system, makes your skin glow, and improves skin elasticity, and even fights off fatigue.

From where: Look around the local vendors and delis
Approx price: depends where you are getting it from

21. Chinese calligraphy

Calligraphy is a popular art in Malaysia and does make up for an amazing souvenir to get back home. Each brush stroke is beautiful and one of a kind that you just can’t compare with the western calligraphy.

The roughness yet the refinement with each brushstroke

From where: Look around the streets in Malaysia
Approx Price : varies from artist to artist

22. Ruby chocolates

Last but not least on the list has to be the Ruby chocolates. Don’t get deterred because it doesn’t contain real ruby. The shape and the appearance of the chocolate are what makes it a unique type that you definitely need to get back home.

The texture, taste, and appearance does make it stand out of the rest, and a must-buy

Approx Price: varies from shop to shop, approx RM25.

When it comes to the souvenirs in Malaysia, the options are abundant, unique, and one of a kind. If you are planning on visiting this country and have your friends and family ask for things to bring back home, you now have a list of possible things that you can get them.

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By Sadie Stein

Dear readers,

I don’t make any special claims for New York except that it’s the city I know best. Well, that and the fact that people really do talk a lot about real estate, a subject that somehow manages to be tedious and thrilling, crass and impersonal all at once.

The other day, I cried on the subway. This in itself wasn’t a big deal; if you live here long enough, the law of averages dictates that at some point you’re going to sob on an uptown 2 train while people studiously avoid your eyes or, occasionally, glare at you with faint irritation. It has always felt to me like a safe place to cry — a sort of international waters.

Of course, on this occasion, I ran into someone I’d known slightly since kindergarten. We ignored the fact that I was weeping and talked vaguely about real estate and our plans to skip an upcoming reunion. I got off two stops early for both our sakes, bought a large pineapple juice and thought about E.B. White.

“Here Is New York,” by E.B. White

Nonfiction, 1949

“On any person who desires such queer prizes, New York will bestow the gift of loneliness and the gift of privacy,” begins this essay. White grew up in Mount Vernon and is probably as associated with New England as any place, but no one has ever captured the city the way he does. I feel silly recommending it, but if one person picks it up who hasn’t before, then it’ll have been worthwhile. “Here Is New York” has nothing to do with glamour; it’s the opposite of glamour. “It can destroy an individual, or it can fulfill him, depending a good deal on luck. No one should come to New York to live unless he is willing to be lucky.”

It’s not just that White is one of the best American prose stylists (although he is) or that his work is steeped in unfussy humanity. What makes his love-hate letter to New York so lasting is its matter-of-factness — and his acknowledgment that luck is a young person’s game. For a while, I used to give a copy of the book to any friend who was moving away. Once, I even gave one to a family of French tourists in Central Park; I wonder what they thought about that.

Read if you like: “One Man’s Meat,” “Little Fugitive,” Dawn Powell Available from: Bookstores, libraries or Central Park proselytizers, or online via Yale University’s CampusPress

“After Claude,” by Iris Owens

Fiction, 1973

Crying on the subway? That’s just a Tuesday. But laughing — now, that’s an event. One of the only books that’s ever made me laugh out loud, by myself, while commuting, is “After Claude,” Iris Owens’s sublimely bitchy tale of a woman, Harriet, on the verge of a nervous breakdown, a breakup, a bunch of downtown sofas, a few spiritual awakenings, an unrelenting barrage of insults and a rainbow of caftans. Is our deluded heroine being unceremoniously evicted by a sleazy Frenchman who has no interest in being with her? Depends who you ask. And frankly, Harriet doesn’t care what you think. “If there’s one thing on this earth that irritates me, it’s when a dumpy, frigid, former nymphomaniac assumes that my tongue is hanging out, thirsting for marital bliss.”

Read if you like: “The Goodbye Girl,” “The Sullivanians,” Renata Adler Available from: New York Review Classics , Internet Archive

Why don’t you …

Hide your demons? Not long ago, a kind friend who knows me very well went to the Edward Gorey house in Yarmouth, Mass., and brought me back a souvenir: a model of the creature who stars in Gorey’s macabre and bizarre (redundant when discussing Gorey) “Black Doll: The Silent Screenplay.” This object — featureless, armless, sort of anthropomorphic — is terrifying. I’ve hidden it in my closet and I swear it’s giving me nightmares.

Let fate decide? A rather less unsettling gift is a massive 1978 compendium called “The Quotable Woman,” which a friend found at a book barn. It’s a rather arbitrary collection of quotes; I like to open it at random when I wake up. And this morning? “To-day it is spring!” —Sarojini Naidu (1879-1949). (It was!)

Be perverse? I know that this newsletter is landing in your inbox on 4/20, but I don’t care. Reading about someone’s gonzo stoner experience is kind of like being a designated driver: Nothing is nearly as funny as you think. By all means, try to change my mind — but it won’t be easy. (Sorry; I’ve been spending a lot of time with “After Claude.”)

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Buying Local: The Pros and Cons of Purchasing your Goods Locally
Buying local is touted as the best way to be environmentally friendly while supporting local communities at the same time. By purchasing food and other goods that are produced locally, consumers help stimulate their regional economy, help create and retain valuable jobs, supports families and strengthen community and culture.
How do Tourism Souvenir Purchasing Channels Impact Tourists' Intention
Souvenirs: What and why we buy. Journal of Travel Research, 50(3), 239-247. Crossref. ISI. Google Scholar. Wu L., Lee C. (2016). Limited edition for me and best seller for you: The impact of scarcity versus popularity cues on self versus other-purchase behavior. Journal of Retailing, 92(4), 486-499.
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3. Buying local helps the local economy. When you buy local, it stays local. More jobs will be created in your town, the community will prosper, and people will be more connected than ever to ...
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Essay On Souvenirs. 1075 Words5 Pages. In todays society, many people are travelling to different areas of the world for the purpose of their personal relaxation, enjoyment and fun. However, there are also many tourists who are traveling to a specific region where they feel holds great connection to them, the culture that is there and the local ...
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Kampot, Cambodia, is known among foodies for its quality peppercorns; cooperatives like FarmLink have made it easy and affordable for tourists to buy them from local farms to bring home ($4 for 40 ...
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Turns out, as Mr. Potts notes in a new little book called "Souvenir," there's more to this seemingly simple (perhaps frivolous to some ) practice than meets the eye. For one thing, it's a ...
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They are a way to preserve memories, express identity, connect with others, and promote cultural heritage. Understanding the psychology of souvenir buying can help both souvenir buyers and sellers ...
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A scheme where you buy a card for £5 (10% goes to local charities) and receive discounts and other deals in a range of independent shops. It runs in parts of Manchester and Stockport .
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Buying a souvenir with an imprinted name of the destination or that reflects the design of the location is another major shopping activity for tourists (Amaro et al., 2019). In Parasakul's (2019 ...
Everything You Need to Know
By supporting local artists and buying locally made souvenirs, you can positively impact the community you visit. By purchasing locally made souvenirs, the financial benefit goes directly to local people, which means we can contribute fully to local community development. By shopping at a local souvenir shop, you will support small business ...
10 Tips for Finding Authentic & Meaningful Travel Souvenirs
7. Ask a local. The main benefit to joining a guided shopping tour is having a guide to give you their suggestions. Even if you don't join a formal tour, it's always worth asking a local to recommend meaningful souvenirs and their favourite shops. Ceramics for sale at a souvenir shop in Yerevan, Armenia. 8.
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It takes about 20 minutes from the city centre to Partizanskaya, which is the closest metro station to the market. You can then walk for about 5 minutes to the colourful building, which is the Izmailovsky Kremlin and houses the souvenir market. The other option is to take an Uber, which will cost about Rub 400, but might it take you an hour or ...
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Sustainable development has three pillars: economic, social, and environmental. Buying from local MSMEs keeps the money circulating and creates job opportunities within the community. Since these businesses are owned by people who live in the community themselves, they tend to be more invested in the community's future and contribute to its ...
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A hunter's guide to souvenir shopping in Moscow . Nov 25 2012 Sofya Raevskaya specially for RIR One of the first questions that comes to mind of foreign tourists is what should they buy in ...
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That's not to say I don't love the occasional novelty sweatshirt or bumper sticker, but I tend to buy goods made by local artisans and designers: ceramics, glassware, home linens, clothing, etc.
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Pick up at your favorite bagel shop (or try my favorite, Ess-a-bagel). 6. New York City Ceramic Anthora Coffee Cup Souvenir. Iconic NYC souvenir. Suitable for everyone (sippy cups available for kids) Available at the MOMA, City Store and here (ceramic Anthora coffee cup) online.
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3. T-Shirts. There is nothing like a T-shirt to show you have been to London and as well as being light in weight to take home, they make practical gift ideas for children, especially if you are not planning on buying more toys or you have a lot of kids to buy for. 4.
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There are also decorative plaques that feature intricate paintings! 8. Rattan handicrafts. Another unique type of souvenir from Malaysia that makes for awesome presents is rattan handicrafts. Made mostly by hand using natural rattan shoots, rattan handicrafts give off a rustic and appealing vibe.
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On this page, we've put together a directory of free paper samples regarding Souvenir. The plan is to provide you with a sample similar to your Souvenir essay topic so that you could have a closer look at it in order to grasp a better idea of what a great academic work should look like. You are also advised to implement the best Souvenir ...
Buying souvenirs: ESL/EFL Lesson Plan and Worksheet
Buying souvenirs. Share. Level: Elementary (A1-A2) Type of English: General English. Tags: shops and services travel and leisure shopping shopping Situation based. Publication date: 06/11/2017. In this dialogue-aided lesson, students learn and use words for different souvenirs. Learners listen to a conversation between a tourist and a shop ...
Gifts in Moscow
The local craftsmen have been successful in having preserved and developed the old techniques and improving the painting style. The factory has over 100 items on its production list, including souvenir dolls, carved polished products, inlaid souvenirs, products of birch ring, toys. Address: B. Dmitrovka str. 5/6, bld. 5 | Phone: +7 (495) 921-03-94
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1: Off-kilter genius at Delicatessen: Brain pâté with kefir butter and young radishes served mezze-style, and the caviar and tartare pizza. Head for Food City. You might think that calling Food City (Фуд Сити), an agriculture depot on the outskirts of Moscow, a "city" would be some kind of hyperbole. It is not.
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