Travelling is a source of inspiration for new ideas. It is also a way to search for interesting items that can be brought back to remind us of the place. The memories attached to such memorabilia make us want to go back to the particular location to relive it. Here are six authentic souvenirs to bring back from your travels across the world:

Authentic handmade birdcages from Vietnam

 

 

 

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While birds in birdcages are not an appealing idea, the structures themselves are stunning. Handmade birdcages are a Vietnamese speciality. Made with bamboo or wood, these intricately-detailed cages are a creative delight. And back home, they can be repurposed and used for a variety of things—lighting fixtures, planters, even candle holders. 

Have you read Outlook Traveller's Unique Souvenir Series stories yet?

Blue pottery from Holland 

Delft Pottery is a general term that is used for Dutch tin-glazed earthenware, a form of pottery. Even though the term covers others colours and forms of pottery, the blue ceramic plates are a specialty of Dutch artisans. They are deep indigo blue with hand painted landscapes featuring windmills.

Miniature Sphinx from Egypt 

While the Sphinx has stumped historians and archeologists alike for centuries, the limestone creature sporting the head of a human and body of a lion is a sight to behold near the pyramids at Giza. Does it hold secrets? What does it mean? Why was it built? While these questions have been asked over and over again, a miniature model made of stone dust makes for a great memento. 

Bohemian glass from Czech Republic 

Bohemian glass or Bohemia crystal is a specialty of the country. Unique designs in various forms are found aplenty—vases, wine and champagne glasses, plates, fruit bowls, decanters, they make for excellent souvenirs and gifts. 

Irish whiskey from Ireland 

When in Ireland, how can you leave without carrying back a bottle of Irish whiskey? There are plenty of distilleries in the country, the oldest (Bushmills) tracing its lineage back to the early 17 th century. If going on a specific whiskey tasting tour isn’t your cup of tea, head to a shop to get the bottle of your choice.

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Pottery from Mallorca, Spain 

Mallorca is known for its unique pottery. Porcelain figures are extremely popular and have a lot of history and myths attached. They are high quality with exquisite detailing, soft colouring and a smooth finish. The attention to detail is mind-blowing, not what you expect from a beach destination.

The writer is architectural designer of Villa Ortiga Design Studio