Read on to discover how to choose thoughtful gifts that tell a story and create memorable connections while traveling.

While traveling, my wife, Susan, and I often find unique gifts that we pick up for our friends and family. We might be strolling through an open-air market and see just the right thing for a particular person. Often, we learn something about where the item comes from and how it came to us. Susan collects these things, and we have a thoughtful gift ready when a special occasion rolls around. This is much more fulfilling than buying something mass-produced for a birthday or holiday. We hope that our friends appreciate the uniqueness of these gifts as well.

Antique Market in Antibes in the South of France. Photo by Susan Lanier-Graham

This year has been a little different because of COVID-19. Susan and I haven’t been on the road so much. As the holidays approach, our gift collection is pretty thin. As an alternative to picking things up on the road, we have discovered Etsy. Browsing Etsy is a little like walking through an exotic marketplace. There are tons of interesting, unique items, and almost as many unique people selling them.

Shopping for Thoughtful Gifts

When you shop on Etsy, be sure to browse the shops. Scroll below the comments to read about the owner and the operation. Click the link to the owner’s profile to learn more. I find it interesting to get a sense of the shopkeeper’s personality and what motivates them. Each artist has a unique story. I try to find shops as close to the product as possible. For me, individual makers or cooperatives are best. I try to avoid importers who just buy cheap and sell at a profit.

Thoughtful Gift Ideas

Below are a few of our favorite Etsy shops and products that remind me of something we might find on our travels and allow us to bring travel home.

Cielo Zapoteco: Zapotec Weavings from Mexico

I discovered Cielo Zapoteco while doing background research for Elizabeth Rose’s article Zapotec Weavings: Southwest Style For Your Home. Martin Hipolito owns the shop in Zihuatanejo, Mexico. Martin is a master weaver, having learned the craft from his grandfather at age 8.

The weavings are sourced primarily from the Ruiz and Cruz families in Teotitlán del Valle. The weavings are traditionally made from all-natural materials and dyes. Unfortunately, their brick-and-mortar store had to close recently because of the drop in tourism caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fortunately, Martin found his way to Etsy, where we can buy these fantastic weavings online. Buying directly from the maker supports their family and community and makes for a thoughtful gift.

Zapotec Rugs Master Weaver Collection by CieloZapoteco
from: Etsy

AJ Enamels: Jewelry from The Pacific Northwest

Full disclosure here: Anne Johnson, the owner of AJ Enamels, is Susan’s cousin. However, I didn’t know Anne made jewelry until she joined a workshop Susan and I led. Since then, we have discovered Anne’s beautiful and creative work and made several purchases.

Anne discovered her love of vitreous enamel in an art class. She was enthralled by its vibrant colors and the way the metal shines through.

Anne is inspired by shapes she sees in nature, such as the curve of a seashell or the petals of a flower, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, where she lives.

Anne Johnson Enamels Wearable enameled art by AJEnamels
from: Etsy

Amber Kaleidoscope: Clever Design from Lithuania

I was searching for an original toy for our youngest grandson when I found Amber Kaleidoscope. Zilvinas Stankevicius designs and manufactures these intriguing devices. He is an industrial designer and sculptor who has worked in the corporate world for many years.

Zilvinas strives for simplicity and efficiency in his designs. He approaches environmentalism from the perspective that a high-quality product can serve many people, perhaps for generations, so he chooses natural, durable materials. Zilvinas says, “I try to produce less, but better quality.” Clever design and thoughtful materials can make a gift for the right person.

AMBER KALEIDOSCOPE by AMBERKALEIDOSCOPE
from: Etsy

Buying Themed Gifts

Buying themed gifts that revolve around the recipient’s interests is another way to show you care. For example, if you are looking for unique and thoughtful gifts for sailors in your life, there are a few options that are sure to please. A nice maritime-themed clock or weather station would make a great addition to any sailor’s cabin. A subscription to a sailing magazine or a set of navigation aids would be much appreciated for the more adventurous sailor.

For the sailor who loves to entertain in their home bar—or perhaps owns a small bar—custom coasters can be a fun way to theme a gift.

Whatever your budget or the sailor’s interests, there is sure to be a thoughtful gift they’ll appreciate.

Choosing Thoughtful Gifts

A thoughtful gift fits the recipient and has a fascinating history. I aim for the recipient to say, “That is so cool!” Even when we’re not traveling, we enjoy exploring Etsy and supporting small business owners and makers worldwide and across the street. Check out our suggestions on Wander for more thoughtful gifts and ways to bring travel home.

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