Before I go to a new place I try to research merchandise that is unique to that destination. Whether it’s food, wine, jewelry, clothes or coffee, each place offers merchandise that will keep your memories alive long after you return home.
Bora Bora
• Black pearls – I found these all around Bora Bora. Unfortunately, the really high-quality pearls from the shops I trusted were way beyond my budget. Maybe next time!
• Paero – This is a cloth wrap or sarong that is very popular in Tahiti. The locals hand paint scenes on the cloth – my paero has a scene of the islands! The locals also hold tying classes that show you cool ways to wear your paero.
Costa Rica (Papagayo Peninsula)
• Wood carvings – These can be found in shops all around Costa Rica. I purchased some absolutely beautiful wood bowls.
• Coffee – What more can I say? The best coffee ever comes from Costa Rica.
• Guaro – This leads the list of traditional alcoholic drinks from Costa Rica. Take my advice: don’t drink it in shots like tequila. It may numb body parts you want to use later in the day!
Grand Cayman
• Glass – Island Glassblowing Studio is a great place to buy unique souvenirs at affordable prices, and it’s fun to watch the items being made. I bought a little glass turtle to remind me of the islands.
• Rum Cakes – Most of the stores sell rum cakes and some will let you taste before you buy. They come in lots of flavors; my favorite was the key lime!
Kauai
• Macadamia Nut Cookie – I absolutely loved the Guava Macadamia Nut Kauai cookies made fresh on the island. This crunchy cookie is a great combination of the sweet fruit flavor of the guava and the wonderful macadamia nut. I tried to bring a box home but got hungry on the plane.
• Aloha Apparel – OK, I know you can buy Hawaiian apparel just about everywhere. But my Hawaiian sundress is special because I bought it on the island of Kauai. It brings back memories every time I wear it.
Prague
• Crystal – One of the Czech Republic’s most famous products, Bohemian Crystal is sold in shops throughout Prague. Czech crystal figurines and jewelry make great souvenirs.
• Garnet stones – Dark red and dazzling, Czech garnets are popular jewelry and souvenir items in Prague. I even spotted a garnet tiara in one of the shop windows!
• Marionettes – The art of Czech marionette making goes back to the 18th century. There are many stores in Prague that sell marionettes made by Czech artisans. Even if you don’t plan to buy one, it is fun to visit the shops.
Vienna
• Mozart Chocolate – In Vienna, you can find Mozart in every souvenir imaginable: keyrings, mousepads, jewelry; but my favorite Mozart item by far is the Mozart chocolate ball. Words cannot adequately describe this decadent chocolate delicacy. Don’t leave Vienna without them!
• Crystal –Swarovski’s flagship store is in Vienna. Take some time to escape from the bustling sidewalk and into the enchanting and calming world of crystal.
