Looking for the perfect gift for the avid traveler in your life? Get inspired by some of the world’s most beautiful destinations, crafts and traditions. From an Indian silk headscarf or a Japanese washi paper journal to an Italian leather camera bag or French travel skincare, here are some of the greatest travel gift ideas, inspired by our journeys.

1. Handmade stationary

Photo credit: @itoya_official

Inspired by: Japanese washi paper and Egyptian papyrus paper

Handmade stationery is the perfect travel gift inspired by the craftsmanship and heritage of Japan and Egypt. Japan’s deep-rooted tradition of washi paper making embodies simplicity and sustainability, while Egypt’s mastery of papyrus production dates back to ancient times. You can find beautiful journals to document your travels, notebooks to jot down important info, or even gorgeous artworks made on handmade canvases. 

Where to buy: In Egypt, head to the local markets or visit shops like the Papyrus Institute in Cairo for sustainably made products. In Japan, you can find local artisans who sell their creations online, or explore specialty shops like Itoya, a 100-year-old stationary store in Tokyo.

Explore local Egyptian markets on: Elegance of the Nile

Shop for washi paper stationary on: Majestic Japan

2. Woollen knitwear

Photo credit: @daleofnorway

Inspired by: Norwegian, Scottish and Peruvian knitwear

High quality woollen knitwear is an essential travel item. A snug jumper, cosy scarf, or warm blanket are the ultimate comfort items to bring wherever you go, from winter destinations to chilly airplanes. Countries like Norway, Scotland and Peru are all famed for their woollen knitwear. Norway’s iconic woollen sweaters are famed for their unique patterns and durability. Scotland’s woollen tartan products are a symbol of its rich heritage and craftsmanship. Peru’s alpaca and llama wool products are not only super soft but often made by Indigenous communities using traditional weaving techniques. 

Where to buy: Dale of Norway is an iconic Nordic knitwear brand, and you can find responsibly sourced woollen products at The Tartan Blanket Co (TBCO) in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Explore Scandinavian knitwear on: Timeless Scandinavia

Shop for tartan products in Edinburgh on: British Royale

When you travel to Peru with Luxury Gold, you’ll meet Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez, a Quechua scholar, director of the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco. Learn about the center’s mission to preserve traditional weaving techniques and watch local artisans creating beautiful handwoven pieces. 

Learn about traditional weaving in Cusco on: Treasures of the Incas

3. Leather bags

Photo credit: @scuoladelcuoio

Inspired by: Italian and Spanish leather craftsmanship

Leather is known for its longevity and timeless style, and Italy and Spain are known for producing some of the most high quality leather products in the world. Whether you’re looking for a duffel bag, backpack, or camera bag, and Italian or Spanish leather bag is the perfect travel gift. 

Where to buy: Go for leather products made from eco-friendly, vegetable-tanned leather and support artisans who follow ethical standards. In Spain, Ubrique is the most famous leather producing region, and Loewe and Castañer both create excellent leather goods. In Italy, Florence is the place to go for premium leather goods, and you’ll find luxury items at stores like Ferragamo and Gucci. You can also visit the historic Scuola del Cuoio (School of Leather) in Florence, where you can watch artisans at work and purchase handcrafted leather items.

Shop for leather products in Florence on: Ultimate Italy

Discover Spanish leather craftsmanship on: Spain & Portugal in Style

4. Slippers

Photo credit: @nootkas

Inspired by: Merino wool products in New Zealand

A quality pair of slippers are one of life’s greatest pleasures, and it’s a true comfort while you’re traveling. If you’re looking for the cosiest slippers, you can’t go past pure Merino sheep wool. Soft and durable, it’s a gift your friends and family will adore. 

Where to buy: Consider New Zealand brands that use ethically sourced sheepskin and sustainable production methods, like Cosy Toes, Nootkas and Glerups.

Shop for sheepskin slippers and other products on: The Long White Cloud

5. Silk scarf

Photo credit: @hermes

Inspired by: Silk products in France and India

Both India and France have centuries-old traditions of silk production and exquisite craftsmanship. Whether you go for a silk headscarf, pyjamas, robes, eye masks, or pillowcases, be sure to look for silk items made using eco-friendly, ethical silk farming practices.

Where to buy: Consider supporting artisanal cooperatives like FabIndia for sustainable silk products or Hermès for luxury French silk products.

Shop for Indian silk on: Essence of India with Ranthambore

Discover French silk products on: Ultimate Southern France

6. Bamboo travel cutlery set

Photo credit: @mujiaus

Inspired by: Japan’s bamboo forests

This gift is the ultimate luxury sustainable travel product. You combine the sustainability of bamboo with reusable cutlery, so you can ditch the single-use plastic cutlery. Bamboo is naturally renewable as it regrows from its own roots and regenerates at a whopping speed of up to 90cm a day. When you explore the beautiful bamboo forests in Japan, you’ll really get an understanding of the magic of this plant.

Where to buy: Look for products made from sustainably harvested bamboo at stores like Muji.

Explore bamboo forests and shop for Japanese bamboo products on: Majestic Japan

7. Travel skincare

Photo credit: @biologique_recherche

Inspired by: French skincare  

Good skincare is so important when you travel. Whether you experience dry skin after flying, irritated skin in cold weather, or need extra protection from the sun, you’ll likely find yourself needing extra skincare products when traveling. If you’re looking for iconic brands and soothing rituals, turn to French skincare. The top French beauty brands focus on preventative skincare and source the finest ingredients, having refined their products for decades or even centuries. 

Where to buy: French brands like Lancôme, Clarins and Biologique Recherche stock a range of high quality beauty and skincare products. They offer many of their products in travel sizes and can even create a personalized skincare ritual for you. 

Shop for French skincare in Paris on: Ultimate Southern France

8. Watches

Photo credit: @omega

Inspired by: Swiss watchmaking 

Timekeeping is an essential part of travel for anyone and no one does timepieces better than Switzerland. Geneva has been the heart of the watchmaking industry since the 16th century and is renowned for its intricate designs, excellent craftsmanship and precise timekeeping. 

Where to buy: Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Vacheron Constantin are some of the most iconic Swiss watchmakers. You can also explore Swiss brands that use recycled materials and sustainable practices like Omega or Swatch. 

Shop for Swiss watches in Geneva on: Majestic Switzerland

Europe is a treasure trove of luxury handcrafted products, from the haute couture houses of Paris to the artisans of Italy using ancient techniques. Each product tells a story of the region’s history, tradition and craftsmanship and is a beautiful way to remember your travels through the different corners of Europe. But with so many different crafts and products, what should you really buy? The Luxury Gold souvenir guide to Europe is a great place to start. From crystal and jewelry to clothing and decor to chocolate and wine, dive into our souvenir guide and discover some of the most exceptional and authentic luxury souvenirs to buy at the source in Europe. 

Swiss watches – Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva has remained the heartbeat of the watchmaking industry since the 16th century.

Where to buy

Patek Philippe and Rolex are two titans calling Switzerland home. Vacheron Constantin is also renowned for its intricate designs, exemplary craftmanship and precise timekeeping.

Read more: Roger Federer, Trevor Noah and the timeless beauty of Switzerland

Waterford crystal – Waterford, Ireland

Since the 18th century, the city of Waterford has been synonymous with world-class crystal work.

Where to buy

The Waterford Crystal factory is the very best place to buy authentic Waterford crystal from the source.

French perfume – Grasse, France

Famed as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse is nestled in the hills of the French Riviera.

Where to buy

Visit the world-famous Fragonard, the French perfumery establish in 1926 in Grasse. Here you can develop your own custom fragrance that captures your essence. Global luxury fashion houses Chanel and Dior have their roots in Grasse, producing iconic fragrances.

Belgian chocolate – Brussels, Belgium

No European souvenir guide is complete without chocolate – and Brussels is globally acclaimed for its superior chocolate production.

Where to buy

Godiva and Neuhaus are the shining stars of Belgian chocolates. You might also like to purchase a bespoke chocolate box from Belgian chocolatier Pierre Marcolini.

Read more: Where to find the world’s best hot chocolate

Scandinavian furniture – Copenhagen, Denmark

Embracing minimalism, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, the Scandinavian design movement of the mid-20th century redefined modern interiors.

Where to buy

Denmark’s Fritz Hansen and Carl Hansen & Søn are iconic brands representing luxurious design and comfort. A favorite piece is the Wishbone Chair by Hans J. Wegner, as it embodies the elegance and functionality of Scandinavian design. 

Italian leather – Florence, Italy

Tuscany, particularly Florence, has been synonymous with premium leather goods and craftsmanship since the Middle Ages.

Where to buy

Since the iconic Gucci brand was established in Florence in 1921, it has become a global luxury icon. You can also find luxury leather shoes, bags, belts & accessories from this Ferragamo, a renowned luxury Florentine fashion house.

You can also visit the historic Scuola del Cuoio (School of Leather) in Florence. Not only can you purchase handcrafted leather items, but you can also watch artisans at work, keeping alive age-old techniques.

Read more: Forget bricks and mortar: 7 luxury fashion brands that have branched into experiential hospitality

Scottish whisky – Scotland

There are a few different European liquors included in this souvenir guide, including Scotland’s famous whisky. The country’s pristine waters and unique climate have given birth to the world’s most acclaimed whiskies.

Where to buy

Scotland is home to five whisky regions – Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside – each offering a different spin on this beloved dram. In Speyside, visit the legendary like Macallan and Glenfiddich. Indulge in a whisky tasting at Balvenie, one of the few distilleries still practicing traditional whisky-making methods from malting the barley to bottle. If you prefer smoky whiskies, head to Laphroaig and Ardbeg distilleries in Islay. 

Read more: The Luxury Gold guide to the finest Michelin star restaurants in Edinburgh

British tailoring – Savile Row, London, England

Tucked away in Mayfair, Savile Row is the mecca of bespoke tailoring with a history dating back to the 18th century. Visit this iconic street when you embark on one of our luxury England vacations.

Where to buy

Prestigious houses like Gieves & Hawkes, Holland & Sherry, and Henry Poole & Co. have dressed royalty, celebrities and dignitaries. For a blend of traditional and modern design, consider Ozwald Boateng.

Read more: Our Favourite Legendary and Lesser-Known Shopping Streets

Dutch diamond jewelry – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam’s diamond district has been dazzling the world for over four centuries.

Where to buy

Gassan and Coster Diamonds offer breathtaking gemstones. You could also commission a unique piece from Royal Asscher, a brand with regal history.

Perugian textiles – Perugia, Italy

Set in the heart of Italy, Perugia is home to a rich history of textile weaving, especially famed for its intricate table linens and lacework. 

Where to buy

Many of the region’s fabrics are still handwoven by local artisans in small workshops. Visit the Giuditta Brozzetti Museum-Lab, on our Ultimate Italy tour, and see how master weaver Marta Cucchia is keeping this ancient tradition alive.

Read more: Travel Experiences that can change the world

Delftware – Delft, Netherlands

This iconic blue and white pottery has been crafted in the Dutch town of Delft since the 16th century.

Where to buy

Royal Delft is the leading brand preserving this age-old tradition, and you can buy beautiful hand-painted pieces here.

French skincare – Paris, France

France, particularly Paris, has been the epicenter of beauty and skincare for centuries. With a philosophy that prioritizes preventative care, French skincare is designed to nourish and protect the skin. When in France, indulging in its skincare isn’t just a purchase; it’s a ritual and an experience of beauty passed down through the ages.

Where to buy

Brands like Lancôme, Clarins and Caudalie have set international standards in skincare, with products sourced from the finest ingredients. You can also dive into the luxurious world of Biologique Recherche. Their personalized approach and their signature product, Lotion P50, have achieved cult status among skincare enthusiasts worldwide. For a truly authentic experience, visit their flagship spa in Paris and immerse yourself in a personalized skincare ritual.

Murano glass – Venice, Italy

Just off Venice, Murano Island has been the center of opulent glassmaking since the 13th century. You’ll experience a glass-blowing workshop in Murano on our Ultimate Italy tour.

Where to buy
Brands such as Barovier & Toso, Venini, and Seguso have been producing Murano glass for generations. You can also get custom pieces from master artisans such as Simone Cenedese or Pino Signoretto.

Read more: Masters at work: These artisanal jobs hark back to an older time

Norwegian knitwear – Oslo, Norway

With its chilly climate, Norway has developed a unique style of woollen knitwear, especially the iconic Norwegian sweaters. While these famous patterns and designs are copied around the world, you can’t beat the original and some of Norway’s most iconic brands cannot be found outside Scandinavia. 

Where to buy

Dale of Norway and Oleana are known for their traditional and luxurious knitwear. Marius, with its distinctive pattern, is another Nordic emblem.

Champagne – Champagne, France

Champagne is the only region in the world that produces authentic Champagne.

Where to buy

Dom Pérignon, Moët & Chandon, and Veuve Clicquot are legendary names, and you can also tour the cellars of Krug for a delightfully bubbly experience.

Read more: Best of the bubbles: the en vogue champagnes to sip this holiday season

Mozart Balls – Salzburg, Austria

Every good souvenir guide needs some sweet treats. Born in the Austrian town of Salzburg, these are delightful chocolate bonbons filled with marzipan and nougat.

Where to buy

Get your Mozart Balls at the original Salzburg Mozartkugeln by Fürst. They offer the most genuine experience of this sweet treat. 

Read more: From London to Tokyo: Where to sample the world’s best street food

Camembert cheese – Camembert, France

This soft, creamy cheese hails from the town of Camembert in Normandy. As raw milk cheese is illegal in the US, You can’t find authentic camembert in the United States since raw milk cheese is illegal there, so if you want to taste the real thing, be sure to pick some up in France. 

Where to buy

You can source genuine “Camembert de Normandie” anywhere in the town of Camembert, but ensure it bears the AOC/AOP label.

Read more: Top Vacation Spots for Cheese Lovers

English bone china – Stoke-on-Trent, England

The potteries in Stoke-on-Trent have been crafting fine china since the 17th century.

Where to buy

Wedgwood and Royal Doulton epitomize English elegance. You can also seek out hand-painted pieces from Spode.

Lindt chocolate – Zürich, Switzerland

Switzerland is a chocolate paradise and Lindt is a legend of its chocolate history. Now a globally adored brand, Lindt and its Sprüngli factory was founded in 1845 in Zurich. 

Where to buy

Head straight to Lindt’s Home of Chocolate in Zürich, where you’ll find the biggest Lindt Chocolate Shop in the world. You should also visit Confiserie Sprüngli, loved for its luxurious chocolates and Luxemburgerli macarons.

Turkish rugs and carpets – Istanbul, Turkey

Turkey is one of the best places in the world to buy textiles and carpets, with a rich heritage in carpet weaving dating back to the Seljuk era. 

Where to buy

Hereke, Isparta and Milas are iconic names in Turkish carpet-making, with intricate designs narrating unique stories.

Read more: Hiding in Plain Sight: Incredible Artworks You Can Discover at Luxury Gold Hotels

Bohemian crystal – Bohemia, Czech Republic

The Bohemia region of the Czech Republic has a sparkling history of producing high-quality crystal since the 13th century.

Where to buy

Moser and Preciosa are pioneers in Czech crystal craft. You can also find mesmerizing artisanal pieces at Rückl Crystal.

Read more: The Luxury Gold guide to discovering statement art pieces on your travels

Port wine – Douro Valley, Portugal

This beloved fortified wine is exclusively produced in the Douro Valley, making it the very best place to buy port wine at the source.

Where to buy
Head to the historic houses of Taylor’s and Sandeman or pick up a vintage bottle from Quinta do Noval.

Read more: Harry’s Bars: The Story of Europe’s Two Most Glamorous Watering Holes

Saffron – La Mancha, Spain

The Spanish La Mancha region is renowned for its high-quality saffron, the world’s most prized spice. The region uses traditional methods of harvesting and roasting which all give the saffron its distinct quality. While saffron is notoriously expensive, you can find authentic saffron here for a fraction of US prices in Spain.  

Where to buy

You can find saffron at local farmer’s markets. Look for the “D.O. Azafrán de La Mancha” which certifies the authenticity and supreme quality of the saffron.

Amber – Gdańsk, Poland

Nicknamed the amber capital of the world, Gdańsk is the heart of the amber-rich Baltic coast.

Where to buy

You’ll find dozens of boutiques selling amber in Gdańsk. Fir handcrafted amber jewelry, head to Art7, known for authenticity and design.

Cognac – Cognac, France

From the town bearing its name, Cognac is France’s most luxurious brandy. If you’re a Cognac fan, be sure to buy it at the source on your next trip to France.

Where to buy

Global icons like Hennessy, Rémy Martin, and Courvoisier have defined the essence of Cognac. Rémy Martin, in particular, produces the only Fine Champagne Cognac. You can also visit the exceptional Delamain, which offers vintages and blends that are a connoisseur’s dream.

Read more: Our Favorite Classic Cocktails, and the Timeless Hotels To Try Them At

Portuguese cork – Algarve, Portugal

With more than a third of Portugal covered in cork oak trees, it makes sense that it’s the world’s largest producer of cork, with Algarve at its heart. The material is used for everything from plugging wine bottles to luxury goods like bags and home decor. 

Where to buy

Pelcor and Artipel are known for transforming cork into luxury goods. Rutz is another brand creating vegan cork footwear, blending sustainability with style.

Swarovski crystal – Wattens, Austria

Founded in 1895, the iconic crystal producer Swarovski transformed crystal into a brilliant industry in Austria.

Where to buy

Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens for a dazzling and immersive crystal experience.

Olive oil – Crete, Greece

While you can find premium locally-grown olive oil all over Greece, the sun-kissed groves of Crete produce some of the world’s finest olive oils.

Where to buy

You’ll find several family-owned olive oil estates across the island. Head to the town of Kolymvari, which produces the koroneiki olive, harvested from centuries-old olive groves. Olive oil producers here even hold the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certificate. 

Read more: Pearls of the Adriatic: Step Aboard Europe’s Most Glamorous Cruise

German craft beer – Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria, the heartland of German beer culture, is home to Brauerei Weihenstephan, the world’s oldest still-operating brewery.

Where to buy

Breweries like Weihenstephaner and Erdinger offer traditional Bavarian flavors. You can even purchase a limited edition brew from G. Schneider & Sohn, the masters of wheat beer.

Spanish leather – Ubrique, Spain

Ubrique has a rich history in leather craftsmanship, known for its superior quality.

Where to buy

Loewe and Castañer both have Spanish roots, creating excellent leather products.

Discover all the destinations included in this souvenir guide at Luxury Gold.

She’s been primped and primed for attention and now all eyes are on the world’s biggest superyacht. Hailed as the world’s most exclusive address, superyacht Somnio was unveiled earlier in the year without any interior images. Now, the first official renders of the interiors are here, and it’s a showstopper. We take a look at some of the stunning images and dive into all the lavish details surrounding Somnio. 

Read more: These are 2023’s most remarkable luxury travel trends

Somnio’s exterior by Winch Design

Record-breaking size

Somnio will be the biggest yacht in the world by both length and volume. This enormous 728-foot vessel has the size and grandeur of a cruise ship, all while retaining the sophistication and luxury of a superyacht. 

The vessel will house 39 luxury apartments across six decks making it the world’s largest residential superyacht. With the total outfitting costing around 500 million Euros, the luxury apartments will start at 20 million Euros. 

Read more: Secret islands and snowy retreats: 5 hotspots loved by the British Royal family

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design

Exclusivity

All that size comes with extreme exclusivity. The luxury apartments are available by invitation or referral only, and the identity of the owners will remain a tightly guarded secret. 

Luxury apartments

The lavish apartments range in size from 1,600 square feet up to more than 6,500 square feet and each has a private balcony or terrace to soak up the sea breeze. If that’s not impressive enough, the largest condo spans almost the entire top deck. 

Each of the 39 apartments is customizable and owners can work with either Winch Design, Tillberg Design of Sweden or Luttenberger Design to create a tailored design for their pad. You can choose from bespoke features such as a private kitchen, gym, library, dressing rooms, and al fresco dining spaces with 270° views. From room configurations and furniture to lighting, artwork, bedding and cutlery, this is a truly custom experience. Owners can even bring in their own interior decorator to ensure a personal touch. 

With the strict exclusivity and the detailed customization, this is like living on your own private yacht – without actually buying one. 

Co-founder Captain Erik Bredhe says, “Beauty may be found as much on the inside of Somnio as it is on the outside. As the only residential superyacht in the world, we are delighted to work with designers that complement our exacting standards. Our owners will experience only the best, as is befitting of a yacht of this nature.” 

Read more: Why a Luxury River Cruise is the Best Way to Cruise

Somnio’s interior by Tillberg Design of Sweden

Somnio’s interior by Winch Design

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design.

World-class amenities

Outside of the luxury, custom apartments, owners will have access to amenities on par with those found in the world’s most exclusive resorts, hotels and clubs. There will be a string of high-end restaurants and bars, including a 10,000-bottle wine cellar and tasting room. There’s also a glamorous beach club with a spate of pools and water sports facilities. As you roam all four corners of the globe, you’ll have a full concierge service to make the most of your experience on land and at sea. World-class medical care will also be available onboard, ensuring a high level of safety. 

Read more: See Vietnam in Style With These Three Exclusive Cruise Experiences

Somnio’s exterior by Winch Design

Global roaming

Somnio will travel the world with an extraordinary and ever-changing itinerary. With a focus on slow-paced travel, Somnio will take you from the Mediterranean to the South Pacific and from New York to Antarctica, all in a luxurious and exclusive environment.

Read more: Sun, Sand and Sequins: Why Summer is the Best Time to Visit These Glamorous Coastal Cities

Somnio’s exterior by Winch Design

Sustainability

Somnio will be built with cutting-edge clean engine technology. The designers have also thoughtfully chosen sustainable materials and products to create a greener interior design and reduce the environmental impact of the vessel. 

When does Somnio launch?

Luxury apartments are now available for purchase, with superyacht Somnio set to launch in mid-2024. Find out more on their website.

More images

Check out more renders of Somnio’s luxurious interior designs below.

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design

Somnio’s interior by Winch Design

Somnio’s interior by Winch Design

Banner image credit: Winch Design