The Perfect Souvenir

When going on your vacation, you want to bring home that special souvenir. The best things to bring home are often those that represent the area you visited, or that the place is known for. In some instances it is obvious: ie.- England is known for beautiful ceramics; Murano, Italy is known for glass. It seems that we may know the wares of far away places better than those closer to home. Did you know that there are some fine glass blowing factories in Kentucky and West Virginia that give tours and sell to the public? In any case, do some research. Then when you arrive at your destination you'll have some ideas of what treasures you hope to find. You can always change your mind if you see some unique item you just have to have, but by having an inkling of what you want, you save precious time. Instead of hunting hours or even days, you can find the store you want, spend a couple hours or less making a choice, and then go back to sight seeing and enjoying local entertainment.
So often the typical souvenir is what is found in "tourist traps", aka: stores that hold cheap touristy items. They can be fun, and if you like that kind of thing, go for it. But although these stores can be easily accessible, they aren't always where the real treasures are found. And be careful, many items have been "made in China" or other places out of the country. Before you leave, look up stores, via the internet, that carry your items. Take the address and directions with you. Also, you may want to step out of the large cities and shop in the small towns and villages for more authentic items and lower prices. For example, when we stayed in Garmisch, Germany, I wanted a wood carving that the area is known for. By going 15 minutes south, the stores were less crowded and the carvings about 20% less, and just as breathtaking. You can also call in advance. Switzerland is known for large, carved bells. My in-laws purchased a custom made bell while living there two years ago. It takes over a month to make the bell. Travelers don't often have the luxury to wait that long, but if you call and order a few months in advance, it will be ready by your vacation. You can take it home with you and save on shipping, and insure it arrives safely.
Another great souvenir idea is to collect similar items each place you go. I don't mean a mug, though that's fine if you enjoy them. I mean something on a bit more personal level. I started collecting paintings and prints from local artists where I go, either of the local landscape, or of something that just catches my eye. You can usually find them in the tourist areas, or again, plan ahead and go when there is an art fair scheduled.
And if you see something you just love, no matter what it is...GET IT! Don't wait for something better at the next place or worry about spending $20 more than planned. It's worth it to get your treasure. You may not get back and it will bug you when you get home. Having the phrase "If only I had got it," repeating in your head, is not worth saving a few bucks.
Here's to the perfect trip treasure!