The By Georgie Round Up
Spotlight on… Finding Local Gems
RM WILLIAMS EXPERIENCE
The Tailor, Australia
Nothing says I’ve been to Australia like a pair of classic R.M. Williams hand-crafted leather boots. Thanks to The Tailor, guests can discover the story of Williams himself, from swagman to artisan, with a behind-the-scenes visit to the company’s workshop and museum, complete with a personal fitting for your own pair of boots.
ARTISTS AND ARTISANS
Enigma, Peru
Peru is a shoppers delight, as demonstrated by Enigma’s long list of recommendations! Dédalo, a famed artisan boutique in Barranco, is a trove of handcrafted ceramics, textiles, and jewellery. For art lovers, Jade Rivera’s store features vibrant prints from one of Peru’s most celebrated street artists. Cuatro en un Baúl, a curated concept store filled with unique Peruvian-made accessories, homewares and more, perfect for those who appreciate design with a story. Or for something a little more whimsical, Hotel B’s llama figurines perfectly capture Lima’s bohemian charm.
GOLDEN FLOWERS
Galavanta, Colombia
Galavanta particularly recommends two favourite designers: Verdi creates traditional alpaca mochila woven with glowing silver and copper threads, while Alma Jewellery creates exquisite wearable flowers dipped in gold. Even if a trip to Colombia isn’t on the cards, UK-based The Colombia Collective gives a taste of the beautiful work of artisans from across the country.
HAND-MADE MAORI CARVINGS
Ahipara, New Zealand
Maori carvings, be they in wood, greenstone or bone, are treasures to New Zealanders. For an intensely personal gift, Jean-Michel from Ahipara suggests commissioning your own from a master carver. He can arrange a visit to just such a man, Bevan Climo, on the Arahura river, who will show guests around his workshop, and even take them by helicopter to remote spots where they can find their own truly special stones, before meeting up with his friends to learn more about Maori culture and local life, usually over a cold beer.
OPEN MARKETS
ITEM, Türkiye
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the team at ITEM don’t recommend one particular shop, but encourage guests to visit many of Türkiye’s markets and bazaars for the true local shopping experience. From carpets and kilims to ceramics, jewellery, spices and coffee, you’ll find all that Türkiye is famous for if you’re happy to wander, discover - and haggle! Their top tip: haggling is a way of life in Türkiye and can be an enjoyable experience but don't be afraid to walk away if you can't reach an agreement!
FIT FOR A PRINCESS
Banyan, India
Banyan immediately nominated the PDKF Shop at the City Palace in Jaipur, run by the Princess Diya Kumari Foundation, an NGO dedicated to women’s empowerment. The colourful block print clothing, accessories and homewares make for gorgeous gifts and help to support sustainable livelihoods for women in Rajasthan.