Best (and worst) cruise souvenirs
Before you pull out your credit card, make sure your souvenir is one that you will really value.
Best
Happy snaps
Digital photos take up no space in your bag (just on your phone or camera) and will preserve your memories for the rest of time. Snap everything you want and then edit when you have some free time in your cabin or back at home. Make sure to print out a few of your favourites and hang them around your house. It’s not good to leave these gems sitting on a hard drive.
Local specialties
Intricate Berber rugs in Morocco, fine Delft blue china in Amsterdam or beautiful washi paper in Kyoto – there are some things you just can’t find anywhere else in the world. If you’re in a special location, buy something unique and memorable that will always take you back there. It’s worth spending the money to get something genuine, so steer clear of the tacky tourist emporiums. You won’t regret it.
Duty-free goodies
Not a souvenir as such, but alcohol, perfume and some accessories can be great value on a cruise ship. Do a little research before you cruise and find out prices at home, then do a comparison when you’re onboard. You could come home with some great bargains or cut price luxury goods that you’ve been coveting.
Worst
Questionable handicrafts
Let’s be honest – a lot of travel souvenirs are pretty terrible. You don’t need a suitcase full of plastic tat or poor quality knick knacks. It can be easy to get carried away in souvenir shops or markets, so set yourself a firm limit. Also steer clear of anything made from shells, bones or fur. You don't know how these were collected or what laws exist around the protection of endangered species.
Excess baggage
We’re not talking about your suitcase here. The average cruiser gains a kilo every two days onboard, so you don’t want to come home with excess baggage on your thighs (or stomach, or behind). So take it easy at the buffet and watch those creamy cocktails. Remember – it’s much harder to take it off than it is to put it on.
What else would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments below.