Where Did You Get That?

This is a question I’ve been asked many times about some of my favourite holiday souvenirs - a beach towel, some pottery, or even a nice dress. But are those items really from where we think they are?



This post is about one of the little things we can do on holiday to support the communities we’re visiting.


Thanks to factors such as foreign owned operators, airlines and hotels, as well as imported produce and food, tourism leakage is as high as 40% in India, 70% in Thailand and 80% in the Caribbean. What does this mean? That not enough money from the trips we take gets to the people whose homes we are visiting.



One of the easiest things we can do to improve this situation is to spend our money with local businesses, and even better on locally made products. This way not only are you supporting a local shopkeeper, but you’re also fuelling demand for locally made produce. 


Result - more money in locals’ pockets so they directly benefit from tourism to their home, simple right?


Top Tips


Some tips on how to do this include…


  • If you’re shopping for souvenirs check the label, it might be a traditional product but was it made locally?


  • Look out for local family businesses - you probably love supporting small business at home (including mine, thank you!), so take those attitudes away with you. One of my favourites was Flakatoras Ceramics in Chania - I got to see a pottery display and came back with some fabulous hand made napkin holders, win/win!


  • Going on a cruise? Get off the beaten track and seek out local shops and experiences, you don’t always have to stick to the excursions.


  • Research and pre-book local restaurants before you go - you’re far more likely to visit if you don’t have to make last minute plans.
Got Your Own Favourites?

Do you have any favourite locally made souvenirs from your trips, or more tips to support local when on holiday? I'd love to hear about them.


If you’re interested in discussing a trip that supports local communities, get in touch.