sou·ve·nir

/ˌso͞ovəˈnir/

noun

A thing that is kept as a reminder of a person, place, a special moment, or event.

I was five years old when I bought my first souvenir while traveling. I experienced my first “solo” travel (not with my family) to the Adriatic beaches of Rimini from the refugee camp of Laterina. My mother had to add a few years to my actual age to receive permission for me to travel. In Rimini, I fell in love with the beaches, and the sea, the Adriatic Sea. In a little shop on the boardwalk, I found my first souvenir. I had money in my pocket. My father gave me a few hundred liras, “just in case”.  Just in case, for me was a different gelato flavor for every day of the month.

But a particular “Just in case” happened a few days before my scheduled return home. On my way to the gelateria, I focused on the small shack on the boardwalk that sold all sorts of colorful beach toys, straw hats, wooden zoccoli, bathing suits, postcards, magazines, newspapers, and souvenirs.   It was the shell of a conch cut in half, with the image of Santa Teresa Delle Rose pasted in the interior that called my attention.  I did not have a favorite Saint. I knew little if not nothing of Saints, but it was that shell that I was told to hold close to my ear when I returned to the refugee camp to continue to enjoy the seductive murmurs of the Adriatic Sea. As a little girl, I regularly fell into dreams while holding the shell close to my ear. Many decades later, I still look and smile at that shell that today has a place of honor on my bookshelves. 

The lure of places to me unknown, the pleasure of making new friends, my curiosity and quest for adventure, the desire to make many travel dreams come true, led me to fantastic discoveries and spectacular friendships around the World.

When my life directed me to “go home” to Fiume, now Rijeka in Croatia, I was enchanted by my discoveries of the places that spoke to me of my mother’s memories when I was a young girl. I loved her stories, but sometimes I had wondered if her romantic nature might not have illuminated the brilliant memories of the places and people she described to me.

Then it was my turn to fall in love with Croatia. I fell in love, fell in love with Croatia, splendid, beautiful, romantic, extraordinary Croatia. I no longer wondered about the clarity of my mother’s memories. My love affair with Croatia is confirmation that my mother was a romantic and that her stories were not wishful exaggerations.

And that is when and how the story of my Tasteful Croatian Journeys started.

When you visit a country that you fall in love with, it is instinctual to want to bring it home with you, in any form: Music, flavors, books, traditional jewelry, embroideries, local crafts, and art.

In the first years of my journeys to Croatia, I too followed my instinct. I collected things that I would hold as memorable souvenirs of special travel moments.  I, too, now have many beautiful stories in my “favorite memories drawer” as well as things that I love that remind me of my travels: Hand-embroidered tablecloths and lace decorate my dinner table for my friends’ enjoyment—memories of evenings of wine as I watched the sun’s descent into my Mare Nostrum. Music notes make me sway and dance in my living room as I relive that dance with that special someone, under the stars on the elegant terrace of the Hotel Kvarner in Opatija.

I no longer collect “things,” but my senses, individually, continue to collect special memories of Croatia that I hold very dear: Sublime visions of the spectacular panoramas of the Adriatic, the hill towns and olive groves of Istria, the vineyards of Pelješac, the wetlands of the Baranja region of Croatia, Vivaldi in a small chapel built in the 13th century, that now stands hidden in the middle of a forest, the intermittent scream and howling of Bura, my favorite wind, the perfume of the earth of Istria in springtime, the benevolent caress of the Mistral in the late afternoon of August. The aroma and pleasure of the precious ruby red Teran made by the little winemaker down the road from Hum, the smallest town of the world, the succulent oysters on Saint Joseph day in the bay of Ston, but, most importantly, the generous kindness and embrace of the friends to whom I will always be grateful and will hold dear, dear in my heart.

After all, if you know me, you know that I know that travel is all about people, wonderful, kind, interesting, beautiful people. People who go, people who arrive, the people who offer welcome to travelers, and the people who, with blessings, embrace the traveler goodbye.

~ Wanda S. Radetti, one of the caretakers of wonder of Tasteful Croatian Journeys

Our Team’s and Travelers’ favorite Souvenirs from Croatia

In rummaging through her “special memories drawer,” Wanda posed the question:

What makes the perfect souvenir?

It is a question as unique and personal as each individual traveler. From functional items made for everyday use, to sentimental keepsakes that evoke cherished memories, to one-of-a-kind conversation starters, the best souvenir is always something that is meaningful to you.

We’ve polled the Tasteful Croatian Journeys team and some well-traveled friends asking them to weigh in on their favorite gifts and purchases from their travels to Croatia.  Here’s what they’ve got to share…

A Taste of Croatia Back Home

“Food is a huge part of travel for me, and my husband and I really enjoy trying to recreate our favorite meals from our trips once we’re back home. It’s a great way to relive some of our vacation highlights and keep our memories fresh. For this reason, my favorite souvenir is a good local cookbook – in English, of course! I have two great cookbooks that I’ve picked up in Croatia. The first is “Croatia: The Cookbook,” by Mate Janković, which was actually a gift from Wanda on my first trip to Korčula with TCJ. This big, colorful cookbook highlights recipes from renowned chefs all over the country. It’s a wonderful reminder not only of Croatia’s cuisine, but also of some of the talented professionals we’ve met there. The other cookbook I love is “What’s Cooking in Dubrovnik” by Ana-Marija Bujić, one of the owners of acclaimed Pantarul Restaurant. I purchased the book in quirky design shop, Life According to Kawa, just outside Dubrovnik’s eastern gate. The shop is entirely dedicated to products made by Croatian designers and artisans, and everything they sell is extremely high quality. Even if cookbooks aren’t you’re thing, you’re sure to find a great keepsake at Kawa!”

~ Tia Lovisa Moreira, Luxury Travel Designer

Perfect Pairings with Croatian Wine

“With more than 130 indigenous grape varietals, what could possibly be a better souvenir than a bottle of fine Croatian wine? Many sommeliers suggest pairing traditional meals with local wines for the best gourmet experience, which is why a bottle of wine makes the perfect accompaniment to a Croatian cookbook. If you plan on cooking Croatian meals at home, my recommendation is to bring a bottle or two of indigenous Croatian wine back home with you; which can easily be purchased at the airport. Open a bottle and enjoy tasting while you explore the cookbooks to choose a recipe that you think will pair well. You may be surprised by what you find! For example, the indigenous variety Pošip is well known to pair well with seafood. But often, after people start experimenting, they realize that with Pošip, a grilled chicken or even a Thanksgiving turkey can also be a great pairing. Similarly, Plavac Mali wine pairs great with lamb or steak, and can bring out the best in dark chocolates. That is my favorite pairing, a robust Plavac Mali with 80% dark chocolate. It goes equally well as a dessert by the fireplace or while watching the sunset on the beach.” 

~ Mirena Bagur, founder of Croatian Premium Wine Imports, Inc. – a Boston-based online retailer that ships more than 50 Croatian wine labels to most US States

A One-Of-A-Kind Creation from a Local Artisan

“I like to splurge on special experiences when I travel. That might be a 7-course tasting menu at a Michelin starred restaurant, or a private yacht charter for a day of island hopping. These experiences are always with me, require no extra luggage or space in my apartment, and are my favorite travel keepsake. I also love to admire the work of local artisans. From sculpture and pottery, to fine art or jewelry. I enjoy browsing art shops, galleries or craft markets. Supporting the work of artists not only helps to keep alive local traditions, but directly support the local economy. And I love having a one of a kind artifact. I might purchase something as a gift, or keep it for my person collection. I have traveled extensively but my heart is always in Croatia, and the warm people there who embrace joy and the pleasures of life.”

~ Tara Busch, Luxury Travel Designer

A Traditional Treat from the Island of Rab

“Souvenirs are something we take as a memory back home from our travels, something that will remind us of the adventures we experienced along the journey. One of my favorite souvenirs from Croatia is actually one that you eat, but don’t regret.

I received this souvenir for the first time 15 years ago on my wedding day. That was the first time that I fell in love with “Rabska torta” (Rab cake), which was wrapped in a beautiful box with fine lace paper below the cake.

Not only it was the sweetest gift received and a taste to remember, but the story about it was the reason why I still keep it in my memories. Here is how the story goes; the legend says that it was mentioned for the first time back in the 12th century (yes, you read that correctly, the 12th century!) when it was served for the first time to Pope Alexander III while he was visiting Rab. The cake was created then by the Benedictine nuns whose original recipe was for centuries passed on to new generations and is still kept in writing in St. Andrew’s monastery on the island of Rab. Nowadays, local women on Rab prepare this delicacy following the same ancient original recipe.

Rab cake is much more just a cake, it is a true delicacy whose production takes up to several days. With its central ingredient, almonds, and a touch of authentic Maraschino liqueur, together with lemon zest and other tasty ingredients, Rab cake has become one of most well-known original souvenirs from Rab, as well as a special daily treat for the locals.”

~ Mirela Benic, Tasteful Croatian Journeys In-Country Concierge

Traditional Croatian Textiles

As a first generation American of Croatian descent, the souvenirs I bring back from Croatia hold a special significance that goes beyond mementos of my travels. They are tangible connections to my roots. My childhood home was filled with Croatian art and cultural artifacts such as my mother’s tablecloths stitched in traditional Croatian patterns and my father’s cap from the Lika region from which his ancestors hail. From woven wool table runners to lace pillow covers, I enjoy showcasing my culture in my home.

When I travel to Croatia, I enjoy selecting handmade one-of-a-kind home accessories and textiles reflecting the country’s culture and traditions inspired by the artistry and beauty of Croatian embroidery (Vez) and lacemaking (Cipka) traditions.

Silk embroidery (poprsnica) and woven textile patterns from the Konavle region of Croatia feature symmetric and geometric patterns primarily in red, black, and dark green with yellow/golden borders stitched in silk thread. The production and rearing of silkworms in the Konavle region dates back to the 11^th century. To purchase truly unique gifts of Konavle embroidery and woven textiles visit Kokula Art and Craft Shop, Đorđićeva 6, Dubrovnik, Croatia or AR Atelier 20215, Gruda, Croatia founded by artist Antonia Ruskovic Radonic a native of Konavle. 

Croatian lacemaking, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is concentrated on the Dalmatian islands of Hvar and Pag and the town of Lepoglava in Northeastern Croatia. Hvar lace, made with threads of the agave leaf has been made in a Benedictine monastery since finding its way to the island by seafarers from Tenerife Spain in the 19^th century. To purchase unique gifts inspired by traditional Croatian lace making, visit Takemehome for homewares featuring Croatian lace and other unique handmade products Tomićeva 4, Zagreb or Chypka for streetwear with a unique Croatian lace flare, located in the Hotel Jagerhorn, Ilica 14, 10000, Zagreb or visit Sopar Collection the brainchild of two sisters from the island of Pag, for women’s fashion featuring handmade lace from Pag. Purchase online or by appointment +385919703065 at their showroom Šestinska cesta 19a, 10 000 Zagreb.

 

		Photo with permission from AR Atelier
Photo with permission from Chypka		Photo with permission from Etno Motiv

 

~ Melita Krstulovic Opara

Tasteful Mementos from the region of Istria

“Souvenirs are an exciting way to bring back a bite sized memory from your travel adventures. Every time I visit Croatia, I am keen on bringing back my favorite souvenir: Croatian Truffle Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil. 

My family and I visit Croatia every year and for the first time in 2018, we made our way to the Meneghetti, our new favorite winery and luxury hotel. Wanda and her team suggested we visit the region of Istria due to its fabulous wine, truffles and culture. We were informed of Karlic Tartufi located a short distance away from the hotel and learned about the wonderful dog truffle hunt they offered. Wanda knows everything about this region and all it has to offer and made sure to prepare an itinerary for us that included all the best places!! We had the most amazing experience and ended up buying their truffle olive oil and balsamic which was fabulous! We have been enamored with it ever since and every year when we visit, we return to Karlic Tartufi to get our favorite olive oil and balsamic. Fresh, exceptional, and tasteful food is an integral part of Croatia and we love the chance to bring a piece of it home with us each year. When we drizzle that truffle olive oil and balsamic on fresh bread while back in the US, it immediately transports us right back to vacation in Croatia!

Croatia has so many wonderful souvenirs that are unique to the country’s culture. When visiting, be sure to pick up some special items such as fresh lavender, handmade doily’s, traditional folklore dolls or your own favorite olive oil & balsamic! Thank you, Wanda and team for your itinerary and thoughtful planning!”

~ Maxime Menne, Traveler & Friend

Trinkets Which Trigger Memories

“During my first two trips to Croatia I bought a lot of souvenirs. Soccer jerseys, refrigerator magnets, olive oil, clothes, little pieces of craftsmanship that still make grin when I see them tucked around the house every day.

It wasn’t easy to pick just one. There’s a miniature ship made of olive wood that I bought in Korčula that I have placed on the credenza in my living room that holds a lot of my affection. My mom has a painted wooden panel of Split’s waterfront that I see every day that makes me remember the visceral joy of walking around that impossibly charming town. Pretty ceramic pomegranates, pieces of gorgeous lace, small pieces of woven silk, and whatever olive oil we could get our hands on.

All of those things are lovely, tiny crumbs of the country that I love that made their way onto the flight back to Chicago with me, but they are not what I value most. What I treasure most is what I cannot bring back, and what makes me pine for a return more than anything; the people. The memories of their faces are what moves me more than anything. A degree of generosity that we take for granted here in America. Faces that ooze with pride for their country, and a desire to share a little slice of their Adriatic paradise with people from all around the world. Faces that know that the best things are valueless if they aren’t shared.

That’s my favorite souvenir: the memento that I tell people about more than anything else.”

~ John and Bina Oremus, Tasteful Croatian Journeys repeat travelers

Driftwood Art x Nature

I’ve known Wanda for many years. Our relationship is one of kismet; we met at a perfect time in each of our lives. Of our many shared passions is a mutual admiration of fine craftsmanship.

I simply love unique and handcrafted pieces of art. I especially love when the artist incorporates raw elements of nature, such as driftwood, into their craft.

The art pieces pictured above were discovered within Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Upon purchase, these two pieces were titled Day/Night, however I was inspired to name them Seascape (purple frame) inspired by the region of Dubrovnik and Starry Night (green frame)which depicts Split at night. These two pieces have such incredible multi-dimensional detail. The entire canvas is crafted with individual pieces of driftwood. The selection of varied sizes, colors, arrangement and most impressively, the particular attention to detail in each piece to create the scene. My favorite feature are the micro-pieces of driftwood to craft sea gulls over the fishing boat.

I’ve been collecting driftwood art from Croatia for 20 years, I never get bored and just love how complementary they are to any space.

On my frequent trips to Croatia, I also have several items which I purchase regularly. Hands down, NO trip is complete without picking up the following items:

• Rakija – This is a must have in one’s cupboard. Rakija is a multifaceted liqueur. A brandy made from any variety of fermented fruits or potato; it is as common as a cup of coffee. Rakija seals any occasion – weddings, funerals, football matches (teehee) – and is undoubtedly embedded in our culture… And as an added bonus, it boasts excellent health benefits too (helping circulation, colds, stress, healing bruises, and aiding in digestion)
• Lavanda – Fresh or as an Essential Oil. Lavender is essential for my well-being. Not only is it excellent for relaxation, skin, sunburns, and repelling bugs…it smells AH-amazing!  I always stock up and share with family/friends.  To boot, Croatia is one of the top producers of pure, unadulterated Lavender in the world. We’re so spoiled!
• Olive Oil –  No salad or fresh hot bread is complete without Olive Oil, especially from olives grown from the rich soil and salt air of Croatia. Each region has a unique taste; my favorite is from the island of Brac. Perfect color, consistency, and titillation to the palate. My mouth is watering just writing this.

Of course there are other AMAZING delights like Wine, Cheese, Prosciutto, Wool, Cotton…I could go on. What can I say – I relish in anything Croatian. I can’t help it; it’s really, really great quality and highly recommended. Zivjeli!

~ Tanya Fable, Event Producer and Inquisitive World Traveler