Shea Butter, Spice and Everything Nice!

I don't know about you, but when I'm exploring a new place, I'm looking for all the goodies to take home!

I've always gravitated towards the more practical keepsakes instead of going for the cliche statuettes and souvenirs...I mean, how many keychains and bottle openers do I really need? And let's be honest, half of the things we intend to hand out to people just end up in a drawer somewhere (or is that just me?)

Early on, I learned to avoid the tourist trap gift stores and find out where the locals shop (pro tip). If you've never been to an open market before, it can seem a bit overwhelming and even intimidating at times...especially as a foreigner who stands out. I wasn't ready the first time I visited one-- I'll admit that.

The idea of "name your price" was so foreign to me! I think I hesitated too much and the shop owners were very good at this game. They read me and I failed. Miserably. I remember browsing the airport gift shops on the way out and noticing that I actually paid more for my items than what they went for-- IN THE AIRPORT. It was at that moment when I decided that I would learn the game and not continue to get gypped like a rookie.

Now when it comes to bargaining in these marketplaces, it can get intense. You might be offered a chair, tea and some snacks because this is really a sport for some. Usually when I go into these markets alone, I have an idea of what I want and I start by going into a few shops just asking the cost of similar items to get an idea of the average price they'll be throwing out. This is when a local friend comes in handy. Sometimes I will ask people what prices I should expect. (Tip: It also helps to learn a couple words, numbers, or phrases in their language... you'll be a step ahead of the average tourist and might gain a few friends-- you're welcome)

Teak wood printing block I bought in India

I would imagine that some people are just naturally good at this back and forth negotiating and they'd have a good time getting what they want at a lowered price. For the rest of us, it takes a little more practice and/or courage. However, when you do finally get the hang of it, it's so rewarding. Exotic spices, raw shea & cocoa butter, handmade jewelry, unique handbags, beaded sandals, wall art, woven baskets, you name it! Over the years, I've collected things from all over. Sometimes I think about how cool it is when I'm asked where I got something [that I'm wearing] and I notice how I have on different pieces from all corners of the world. Earrings from South Africa , sandals from Kenya, skirt made in Senegal, purse from Ethiopia....okay, more like all corners of Africa, but they do have the fliest stuff!

Speaking of fly, I love to go fabric shopping and getting custom outfits made! I know that I'm not the only person with a million screenshots and hot looks saved on Pinterest. Most places have fabric districts and skilled tailors not too far away. My absolute favorite takeaways are beautiful printed fabrics and hand painted beads. I've been sewing and crafting since I was in elementary school, so these are just things that I geek out on.

Sipping on red wine during a cooking class in Barcelona. We made a spanish omelette, paella, and creme brulee

I'm also a foodie, so I enjoy trying local dishes and produce. When my boo and I visit new places, we love to take cooking classes. It's such an intimate experience-- not just for us as a couple, but we get to connect with the local culture on a different level. When I go and find the spices that went into making all of those delicious flavors I tasted, it's like taking a piece of that place back home with me. And I get to revisit each time I open my cabinet.

I don't always do extensive research on a spot before I visit, but sometimes I'll go in with an idea of at least one item that I would like to bring back. I only use raw shea butter or coconut oil as my main moisturizer, so when I know that I'm going to a place that has those items in abundance, I make sure to stock up for months at a time. A few months ago I ran out of coconut oil from Ivory Coast that I purchased last spring! Being that I'm usually #teamcarryon for shorter trips, I generally pack light and leave extra room to haul the goods back home. And I've been known to buy a suitcase on the road in case I need to check in a bag on the way back--- shameless, so save the judgement. Market runs have just become an integrated part of my travel experience when I'm choosing a new destination. Who doesn't love new things??

What are some items that you have taken home from trips? Are you a trinket hoarder? Drop a comment and let me know what types of things you're interested in!