The best 20 souvenirs from across the world

Encouraged by regular airlines sales, ticket discounts and cut price group tours, we are travelling like never before. We go to a bunch of different places, see things of historical interest, watch cultural performances, eat local foods. And finally, of course, we buy souvenirs. What should we buy that best represents a country, something that helps us remember the great time we had, something that helps us share the spirit of our holiday with the friend who couldn’t come along?

Here’s a list of the 20 best souvenirs for the globetrotter to pick up:

1. Egyptian papyrus scrolls

Hand painted by local artists, these scrolls tell us pictorial stories that take us back to the ancient Egypt of the pharaohs.

2. Belgian bobbin lace

The European aristocracy has worn Belgian lace on its collars and cuffs and handkerchiefs for centuries now. And when you see these beauties you’ll know why:

3. Japanese fans

Gifts that look lovely on a wall and represent the grace, modesty and eye for colour that exemplify the Japanese woman.

4. Chinese cloisonné vases

The Chinese have raised this enamel work to a fine art. Definitely get one for your living room!

5. Swiss chocolate

Do we need a description here? Yummilicious cocoa creations from the master chocolatiers.

6. Dreamcatchers from the USA

The Native Americans believe that dreamcatchers invite good dreams and ward off nightmares.

7. German beer steins

For those evenings when you want to let your hair down with a pint or two. Just kidding… these gorgeous showpieces would look great on your bar or display unit.

8. Algerian hookahs

Beautiful in a corner, these add a touch of Arabian glamour to the starkest of rooms.

9. Russian lacquer ware

Very intricately painted, these make eye-catching gifts.

10. Balinese batik fabrics

These are amazingly intricate and mostly worked on by women. You could get a sarong or a shirt, or even get the fabric by the metre.

11. French wine and cheese

Seriously,nobody knows more than les Francaises about these two in their gourmet avatars!

12. Moroccan ceramics

Sure to be a hit whether you put them up on your own shelves or gift them away.

13. Turkish lanterns

Spice up evenings with light, shade and mystery. The original  – and much longer lasting – Turkish delight.

14. Australian aboriginal art

This style of painting uses dots to great effect and focuses largely on the natural world. Very earthy and attractive.

15. Canadian maple syrup

Pour it on pancakes or even parathas or puris and float into sweet-tooth nirvana.

16. Mexican hand painted Talavera pottery

This comes in a myriad vivid colors and bold designs.

17. Italian blown glass pieces from the island of Murano off Venice

A little on the pricey side, but oh so stylish and worth it.

18. African masks

Make any front entrance pop with a couple of these.

19. Irish whisky

And why do you think they say the Irish are always on top of the world?

20. Greek komboloi or worry beads

Great stress busters, and a big plus: apparently an effective support for people trying to stay off alcohol or cigarettes!