“Bring me something when you return!” Many of us have heard this statement from a loved one. And you couldn’t help but wonder what gift would be fitting for them and what would convey your true feelings. Well, wonder no more! Here is a quick guide to finding souvenirs across the globe:
Tips on Curating Perfect Gifts
Gifting should not be random. Instead, you should find gifts that speak to your relationship with the recipient. And what better way than buying a souvenir? Here’s how you do it:
Know Where to Source the Souvenir
Often, people make the mistake of buying souvenirs they come across when sightseeing. The problem is that you might find better options as you tour your destination. Instead of encountering such situations, give yourself a better chance by researching souvenir shops. When doing so, focus on shops that meet the guidelines below:
- They should offer ethically made souvenirs,
- The souvenirs should be locally made, and
- The gifts should have a purpose.
For example, if you buy someone a shirt they will never wear, you will not have met the third guideline. These points will help you narrow your shopping options.
Don’t Fall for Mass Products
The souvenir business attracts many suppliers, some cutting corners to keep the goods flowing. And while their goods technically qualify as souvenirs, you will find that they barely hit the mark. Most are low-quality and do not have as much effect as unique products. Instead of going to the tourist markets, focus on authentic boutiques. They take pride in offering quality products, albeit at higher prices. Combine this tip with research, and you will weed out inauthentic shops.
Tip: If you can find the source of the products and avoid the middle person, you will have much better luck finding an original quality souvenir.
Get Local Help
Even with research backing you, there’s a chance you might buy subpar products. So, how do you sort the wheat from the chaff as a foreigner? You enlist local experts you can trust. Forget about the people in the markets. Instead, lean on people who gain nothing from showing you the ins and outs of souvenirs. A good choice would be your guide in your destination. They know where they can buy local products at reasonable prices. You can ask them to show you these places so you can get a good deal while avoiding low-quality products.
Know Your Recipient
Getting a quality product is fantastic. But will it be valuable to the recipient? You might think that a coat will interest someone, only to give it to them and they barely wear it. Before buying any gift, ask yourself:
- Does it add value to the recipient?
- Will it make them happy?
- Will they use it?
You can buy it if the answer to all three questions is yes. This technique works even for your own gifts.
Do Not Rush the Process
Treat souvenir shopping like you would any other shopping experience. Do you buy the first pair of shoes you see in a mall? No, you walk around and see what other options are available. And once you are convinced that you cannot get a better pair, you return and get the shoes. Do the same with souvenirs.
Are you travel-ready? All international flight passengers must have valid passports, i.e., not expired, undamaged, and per the minimum validity criteria in the destination. Luckily, renewing or getting a new passport does not have to be complex. You can get one in just days using passport agency!
