Souvenirs, as a memento, are much more than anything else; they can play a significant role in transmitting the culture of the host country to other parts of the world. In countries with rich history and culture, such as Egypt, Greece, and Iran, there are numerous souvenirs that can vary from one region to another.
When tourists travel to different cities and countries around the world, they tend to visit not only the tourist attractions of those countries but also luxury shopping centers and local markets. They buy local handicrafts, foods, and famous souvenirs to take back to their home countries as mementos, so that the memory of their trip to that city or country can be evoked every time they see these items at home or at work.
Honey - Malta
We begin with honey, one of the famous foods worldwide, dating back to the Paleolithic era. The reason why honey is known as one of the famous souvenirs of Malta is because the name Malta itself means "honey"! The Greeks chose the name Malta, which comes from the Greek word for honey, and it has remained ever since. Additionally, in Malta, a special species of bees live, and the taste and aroma of their honey are unlike anything else.
Leather Goods - Italy
One of the most attractive and famous souvenirs of Italy is leather goods, which include a wide range of products such as bags, shoes, and clothing. One of the best places to buy these souvenirs is in Florence, particularly the San Lorenzo market, where they are made in a unique and traditional Italian way.
Delftware - Netherlands
Delft pottery is highly renowned and can be found not only in the Netherlands but also in other European countries. Delftware, as the name suggests, originates from Delft, a southern city in the Netherlands. These pottery items are usually blue and white and have intricate designs. Delftware is one of the best souvenirs from the Netherlands.
Matryoshka - Russia
Matryoshka, or Russian nesting dolls, need no special introduction. Nearly everyone is familiar with these cute nesting dolls and may have even played with them at some point. The Matryoshka doll is inspired by a Japanese doll called Kokeshi, which represented seven gods of fortune in Japan. Today, Matryoshka has become an iconic Russian souvenir recognized around the world. If you visit Russia, try to buy a high-quality Matryoshka doll, made from birch or linden wood.
Mayan Wooden Masks - Mexico
Like Iranians, many countries take pride in their history, and Mexico is no exception. With the ancient and mysterious Maya civilization, there's plenty to be proud of. When you visit local shops in Mexico, you can buy a Mayan mask as a souvenir and take a piece of the country's history with you.
Boomerang - Australia
The boomerang is one of the oldest hunting tools created by humans, dating back 25,000 to 50,000 years. It was invented by Indigenous Australians for hunting and fighting, though today it is more commonly used as a recreational item. Another famous Australian souvenir is the beautiful opal stone, especially black opal, one of the most expensive stones in the world. If you're unable to afford opal, a boomerang is a great alternative.
Turkish Coffee - Turkey
Turkey, with its rich culture and long history, has many famous and often delicious souvenirs! Turkish coffee is something you can try not just in Turkey but also bring home with you. With a reasonable price, you can buy it and enjoy the strong and unique taste, sharing it with friends and family.
Berlin Wall Fragment - Germany
If you visit Germany and tour the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag building, don't forget that for a few dozen euros, you can buy a fragment of the Berlin Wall. This could be the best souvenir from Germany, as no other souvenir can give you a piece of history quite like it.
Fan - Japan
Although Japanese fans are easily found in many cities and countries, buying a Japanese fan in the neon-lit streets of Tokyo offers a unique experience. If you have the budget, space, and desire, you can also buy a kimono, the famous traditional Japanese attire. Fans are a popular souvenir from Japan.
Currency - North Korea
Due to the restrictions in North Korea, getting authentic, unaltered information is only possible from someone who has visited the country. One of the most valuable souvenirs from North Korea, according to Hasan Jaloudari, a traveler who visited the country, is the North Korean currency, which tourists are prohibited from taking out of the country (it is considered a crime). However, with some cleverness, it is not impossible to bring it out.
Souvenir shopping is one of the most interesting and memorable things you can do for yourself or your loved ones. Buying an item from the city you've visited serves as a reminder of your experiences and the city you traveled to. We hope that by reading this article, you'll gain useful and sufficient information about souvenirs from around the world.
