These posts are on the authentic local things to buy that we think make great souvenirs, from local handicrafts to regional produce, and will cover what to buy and where and how to buy it.
Threads of Life is a gorgeous fair trade gallery-cum-shop in Ubud that sells exquisite handmade textiles from Bali and the rest of the Indonesia that are ethically produced. Forget the tourist markets. This is my pick for a one-stop shop for your Bali take-homes. Most visitors to Bali buy their souvenirs – masks, carvings, sarongs, and … Read more
My, how the souvenirs for kids sold in Tokyo have changed since my mother returned from Japan when I was a kid in the early ’70s, bringing back suitcases bursting with gifts. Then, my Mum brought me a beautiful white-faced geisha in a fragile glass case with black lacquer trim, dressed in an exquisite kimono … Read more
The best Tokyo take-homes include beautiful notebooks, postcards and note paper. Stationery makes for terrific Tokyo souvenirs, especially for long-term travellers, because it’s not only pretty, but it’s practical, affordable, and weighs nothing at all. Fortunately Tokyo is also home to some of the world’s best stationery shops. As you’d expect, being a writer, I’m … Read more
Tokyo take-homes must be the most covetable in the world for travellers who appreciate beautiful things. I don’t need to give you ideas as to where to find lovely locally made mementoes, although it’s a task I’ve relished, as there’s no shortage of elegant shops selling enchanting souvenirs, or omiyage in Japanese, all over Tokyo. Tokyo Take-Homes: Quintessential Keepsakes What … Read more
I don’t usually do a Take-Homes post until we’ve been in a place for a while, but Tokyo’s supermarkets and mini-marts are crammed with so many scrummy snack foods, both savoury and sweet, that I’ve found it hard to resist grabbing an armful each time we’ve popped in for some Kirin. So, here’s what I’ve … Read more