Cherished Souvenirs: Lonely Planet Experts Share Stories Behind Their Favorite Travel Keepsakes
Many travelers recall souvenirs as kitschy trinkets or garish T-shirts relegated to forgotten drawers. Yet, the right memento can claim pride of place at home, vividly evoking cherished journeys.
Lonely Planet's destination editors and experts share heartfelt stories behind their favorite souvenirs—from musical instruments and quirky fridge magnets to simple rocks—that capture beloved destinations and unforgettable moments.
An Eyebrow-Raising Sitar from India
I grew up immersed in sitar music, thanks to my dad's school friend who played for us. Long dreaming of my own, I researched reputable makers in Delhi. After several visits, I found the perfect instrument and commissioned a tin-box wallah to craft a custom case for the journey home.
I detuned its 21 strings and padded it securely; it arrived unscratched at London City Airport. Amid business commuters' luggage, my odd-shaped case drew amused glances. Today, with kids keeping me busy, it rarely gets tuned—but its presence transports me back to the Indian subcontinent.
Joe Bindloss, Destination Editor for the Indian Subcontinent. Follow Joe on Twitter @joe_planet.
A Sacred Rock from Mount Everest
After two weeks traversing Tibet, I reached Everest Base Camp. Breathless at altitude, I rested on a boulder, gazing at the peak. My intuitive Tibetan guide said, 'You may take something, but first ask permission from the mountain goddess,' then left me in solitude.
Suddenly compelled, I selected the perfect stone after careful inspection and sought blessing from Qomolangma—the Tibetan name for Everest, meaning 'goddess mother of the universe.' This sacred token now graces my bedside, commemorating that profound journey.
Megan Eaves, Destination Editor for North Asia. Follow Megan on Twitter @megoizzy.
Tacky Magnets from Around the World
The best souvenirs spark conversation, evoke memories, adorn your home without dominating space, and delight the eye—or not. My collection of 150 garish magnets ticks every box!
It began with a prim tulip-clog from Amsterdam proclaiming 'Regards, Holland.' Rules: must name the destination, be the tackiest option, and avoid offense. Standouts include a wobbly octopus from Aruba, a Bulgarian toothpick holder, and Edinburgh bagpipes piping Scotland the Brave when squeezed.
Claire Naylor, Senior Editor. Follow Claire on Twitter @RoadTripJones.
A Gifted Cushion Cover from Cappadocia
April 2010: An Icelandic volcano grounded flights worldwide. Stranded in Turkey's magical Cappadocia, I visited locals in cave dwellings. A warm elderly woman welcomed me with tea.
Gesturing at her handmade cushion covers, she insisted I take one for free—a token from her home for my eventual return. I still cherish it, reminded daily of her kindness and Cappadocia's wonders.
Clifton Wilkinson, Destination Editor for Britain, Ireland, and Iceland. Follow Clifton on Twitter @cliff_wilkinson.
A Berlin Bear Tattoo (Sort Of)
New Year's in Berlin: Amid Christmas markets and art galleries, Berliner beer's bear logo inspired my first real tattoo.
Kreuzberg parlors were closed, so back in Oxford, I got the bear inked on my leg. Nearly forgetting it wasn't Berlin-done—close enough, right?
Joe Davis, Online Marketing Coordinator. Follow Joe on Twitter @joedavis_.
Fossilised Fish Scales from the Jurassic Coast
Storms on Dorset's Jurassic Coast unveiled fossils amid cliff falls. We gathered sea urchins, ammonites, and belemnites.
A black pebble revealed Pholidophorus scales—one of the earliest scaled fish. Imagining it amid Mosasaurs and Megalodon thrills me still.
Peter Grunert, Group Editor of Lonely Planet Magazines. Follow Peter on Twitter @peter_grunert.
A Tattooed Partner from Croatia
A groggy 6am flight to Šibenik, Croatia, ended with a taxi and stumble onto a boat. 'Watch that bolt!'—strong arms caught my fall.
Not instant romance (dreadful tattoos), but we bonded en route to Obonjan festival, became partners a year later. We return to Croatia summers—I've only half-considered returns.
Hazel Lubbock, Digital Platform Editor. Follow Hazel on Twitter @hazellubbock.
