When traveling to any destination in the world, one of the best things to do is to capture each moment you are there to treasure for the rest of your life. With social media taking over people’s lives, many are quick to share their vacations with friends online, and while that is one way to hold on to memories of your journey, souvenirs are perhaps the most common means of keeping your memories of your trip as close to you as possible. If you are considering taking home a few souvenirs from Jamaica, here are just a few suggestions:
Rum
Despite many people dismissing this as nothing more than the regular alcohol beverage, rum possesses several health benefits that include lowering your risk of getting cancer and a lot more. Appleton Estate Rum is considered the best rum in Jamaica and given its delicious taste and health benefits, it’s worth bringing back a sample from your trip.
Wooden Carvings
The Island of Jamaica is the home of several talented artists, and because of this, many people treasure wooden carvings to bring home as souvenirs. From varying sizes and shapes to sometimes naughty creations, there are a lot of carvings to choose from.
Blue Mountain Coffee
This particular brand of coffee is very expensive and popular across the globe with prices going as high as $35/pound. It is sweet and grown in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, 3000ft+ from sea level. This makes it one of the richest, sweetest and smoothest coffees in the world and if you can spare a few extra dollars, it is worth taking home as a souvenir or gift.
Jamaica’s Root Tonic
Medicinal and packed with several health benefits, root tonic is very important in Jamaican culture and is used for a variety of medicinal purposes which include boosting the immune system and curing fatigue. Out of all the souvenirs on this list, this is perhaps the most authentic part of Jamaican culture you will purchase.
Jerk Spices
It has been said time and time again that jerk cuisine is a staple in Jamaican culture and what better way to take that part of the culture home with you, than to invest in some delicious jerk spices? While it is possible to get jerk spices outside of Jamaica, none are quite as authentic as those from the island itself.
Jewelry and clothes
The Rastafarian culture was popularized by legendary icon Bob Marley, and many people remain fascinated by his music and the general way of life. In addition to buying some Reggae CDs, clothes and jewelry are good souvenirs if you are looking to keep a piece of Rastafarian culture with you. There are other local items that are not linked to the Rastafarians that you could also purchase, be it necklaces or T-shirts with other local heroes’ faces printed on them, or the national flag.
Jamaica is a tropical paradise that is worth visiting at least once in your life, and bringing souvenirs back from your trip is the perfect way to keep the local island spirit and culture with you forever.