There’s something to be said for bringing home a “traditional” souvenir when you travel (snowglobes, anyone?), but some trips are so memorable you’d rather bring home an actual piece of the place you’re visiting.
In the June issue of Allure magazine, NYC shop owner Stephanie von Watzdorf, who sells a line of clothing and accessories inspired by her travels, has some suggestions for those trips when you want to buy what the locals buy:
1. Value vintage. Ask people where you’re staying about flea markets, or antiques shops — those items often are more local and may have a story attached.
2. Shop where the locals shop. They’re not in your hotel or airport gift shop; they’re in local department stores or in places that carry CDs from local bands.
3. Check out the pharmacy, especially if you love beauty secrets. Even the simplest soap is cooler because of the packaging, or there will be more regional brands to choose from that you can’t get at home.