Gift Guide #8: Gifts from Abroad
A little vacation magic for under the tree.
When I first crossed the threshold of Avoca on Suffolk Street in Dublin’s city centre, I knew I’d need to play a serious game of Tetris to carry my treasures home inside my suitcase. The iconic Irish store was adorned in brightly colored wool blankets that perfectly captured the whimsy and energy I’d witnessed across Ireland at the height of the Celtic Tiger, and I wanted a piece of that magic to keep for myself.
That’s the thing about souvenirs. You’re caught up in a great trip and try to make the magic last just a bit longer. You want to bottle up the moment and carry it home with you to replay over and over again. So, you buy things. Things for you, things for loved ones, things you may never use again but hold the promise to always remind you of an experience that can’t possibly be replicated at home.
Sometimes you get lucky and discover a store that will ship that vacation magic stateside anytime of year. Here’s a gift guide full of that very thing. I’ve flagged those shops that miraculously offer free shipping to the States.
My love for Ireland runs deep, and people who know this about me are usually quick to add, “And she is a faithful fan of some shop called Avoca.” Avoca, named after a town in Co. Wicklow, has a beautiful history. Today the shops are brimming with the brand’s iconic woolen items spun from bright colors into delightful patterns alongside wares from some of Ireland’s best designers. Cafes and food hall are also an Avoca staple, and as such a line of successful cookbooks and pantry items have joined the colorful scarves and blankets in becoming synonymous with the Avoca brand. Seriously, their raspberry jam has got to be the best in the whole wide world. Ah! I could go on for days. Avoca often offers free shipping to American customers around the American Thanksgiving holiday.
First, the country’s vibrant culture captivates you. Then you fall in love with the food. And then you find yourself swept up in the fashion—sometimes quirky but always having a thoughtful attention to detail and quality.
Tapas culture feels very Vacation Mode, so I find food is an easy way to channel a bit of Spain at home. A one-stop shop for Spanish food and crockery is La Tienda, and it is a gem. The store is based in Virginia of all places and offers so.much.food along with many beautiful items for the kitchen. Come here for jamon, cheese, paella, and tapas, along with beautiful ceramics. Lots of items ship free!
For a woman without kids, it’s remarkable how opinionated I can be about children’s clothes. The best clothes for children come from Spain. There, I said it! Spanish clothes for children are a work of art, and La Coqueta is the place where heirlooms are made. 1-3 day shipping is available via DHL for $25; 3-5 day shipping via FedEx is $15.
Honorable mention for the fastest way to channel a tapas experience: These Iconic Potato Chips.
You may be tempted to try and use the art of comparison when trying to describe Portugal, but don’t even bother. Two of the greatest empires the world has ever known couldn’t completely overshadow this magical seaside country, and it shows in the consistent charm of every restaurant and shop across the country. Marie Kondo would have a field day in Portugal, because every one of my souvenirs from a trip earlier this year sparked so much joy it’s a wonder my suitcase didn’t catch fire. Luisa-Paixão is another of those magical one-stop shops brimming with good finds. They carry the country’s iconic Azulejos (tiles) and blankets as well as a bounty of tinned fish adorned in colorful packaging. They also sell chocolates and other food – all less expensive than anything you’ll get at a Whole Foods. Shipping is very affordable and remarkably fast.
What can I say about shopping in ol’ Blighty that you don’t already know? I suspect you may have a list of your favorite U.K. shops, so I’ll keep this list focused on three shops you may not have thought about for holiday gifts.
For any fellow fans of British book covers, may I introduce you to Blackwell’s for the UK version of all your favorite books. Blackwell’s might also be a good option for gifts for the avid readers in your life. Books are priced to compete with Amazon, and shipping is surprisingly fast and FREE.
If you’re looking for wow factor, Fortnum and Mason delivers every single time. This is a good spot for a foodie or home cook. F&M’s biscuits, teas, and jams are heavenly. Their tea towels and mugs are beautiful and made to last a lifetime. Delivery is $25 and estimated at 5 working days.
The Royal Collection Trust Shop is your go-to for any Anglophile on your list. The shop regularly carries commemorative china pieces which mark royal weddings and milestones. Currently, they offer a line of china commemorating the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. You’ll also find items representing the royal homes—like a stuffed bear dressed as an iconic Buckingham guard— along with costume jewelry to channel your inner princess. You’ll also find sparkly Christmas tree ornaments, books, and even a food bowl adorned with a crown for your pup. Shipping times range from 5 to 7 working days; prices vary depending on weight.