Shopping in Spain

What souvenirs do you buy in Spain?

Want a Spanish gift you can buy that really says Spain? It could depend on where you go, what you like and do not like, and how much space you have in your suitcase.

Of course you can buy junk like t-shirts, coffee mugs, umbrellas or mouse pads with a bull on them, but does that really say Spain? You can find that cheap t-shirt you bought on the street anywhere, and six months later it is still just a t-shirt. I do have to admit I have a t-shirt from Barcelona, but the other items I have purchased during my travels will last a life time.

If you really want something Spanish, and you are a guy, then how about a sword? Towns such as Toledo and Albacete have stores where Spanish swords are actually made from start to finish. You can buy a traditional Spanish sword, like an 1861 medieval replica. I recommend a sword with Spanish history because all types are made from Asian styles and even replicas from the movies. They have been made for centuries and as long as you can get through customs you will be fine. The best bet is to ship from the store so you won't have any problems. If a Spanish sword is not for you, than maybe a t-shirt will be better. Wait, did I just say that? Seriously, if you really want to show you are a Spain fan then an authentic Spanish soccer jersey is for you. With some of the most famous soccer teams in the world such as Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, you can be a true fan of Spain and soccer. But be careful, Spanish soccer jerseys aren't cheap; a Beckham or Ronaldinho jersey usually starts around 65 euros. You can of course buy replicas, but they can still be expensive. One more thing, a Spanish soccer jersey is not a t-shirt!

On the softer side, Spain has plenty for women from jewelry and art work to crafts. My wife has 5 lladrós at our house and can't wait to buy another. A lladró is a porcelain figurine which shows the essence of Spanish life through hand-painted precision. The factory is located outside of the beautiful coastal city of Valencia and offers free tours. In the tour you see the entire process from the artisan's hand painting and molding each petal on a miniature flower to its trip to the oven. A lladró makes a beautiful addition to any home, and each one is unique.

With so many Spanish gifts to find you will never tire because each city and town has its own appeal. Just make sure you get something that you can enjoy for years to come. ¡Vive España!

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