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A letter from our editor:
In a few weeks, I’ll be traveling to Portugal for ten days — my first time visiting the country — and, as always, I’m thinking about what I want to shop for and bring back home. For me, the most meaningful travel souvenirs are pieces that tell a story and evoke memories. I’ve been inspired by my aunt, who lives in Norway. Her home is eclectic and cozy, filled with rugs, photos, and objects she’s collected over years of living and working in Asia and the Middle East. It’s shaped how I think about my own space and what I look for when I travel.
For example, I’m always on the lookout for small, unique pieces that spark curiosity — a vintage salt shaker from Berlin, an oversized art print from Tangier, stone candlesticks from Oslo, or the tiny felt bird above my daughter’s crib from Peru. These items help to contrast the more common home decor items I have from popular brands and make my house feel genuine to me.
When traveling, I’ve learned a few tips that make bringing things home easier: Fabric and soft goods like tapestries, pillow covers, and blankets travel best; prints can easily roll up and be carried on a plane; small items are just as meaningful as large ones (I love a good bowl); and if a piece is fragile, get creative with packaging or ask about shipping — it’s often more cost effective than you think!
Finally, my favorite tip: Postcards make the best framed art for hallways and small corners in your home, and they are so much more cost-effective than huge pieces. I have a postcard-sized watercolor drawing from an artist in Rome that I bought at a craft market. It sits on my daughter's dresser and is one of my favorite travel pieces. It only cost me £10, but I hope it's something she'll keep and pass down someday.
Below, I've also highlighted a few of my favorite inspirations for shopping for home items abroad. Happy spring and summer travels! x
Warmly, Kayti Senior Content Strategist
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DESIGN
My favorite Substack newsletter for design inspiration and mood boards that feel grounded in travel.
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DECOR
I'm on the hunt for good coffee table books right now and hope to visit some of these bookstores in Lisbon to find a new one.
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DIY
I am so tempted to try this DIY on some tiles in my backyard this summer to make it feel a bit more eclectic and interesting.
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