Irish gifts to bring home to your loves ones after a visit
Planning a visit to Ireland this year? Though the COVID-19 coronavirus may be stopping you in your tracks right now, we’re all hoping that we can return to a more normal state of affairs in the coming months, and that we can travel once more. If the Emerald Isles is on your list, you’ll want to read this. We’ve put together some gift ideas to bring back to your loved ones.
Jewelry
Ireland is home to some truly talented jewelers, producing authentic traditional Irish pieces that mimic those which have been passed down for generations. If you’re toying with the idea of proposing to your partner, you may want to consider the Claddagh ring, whereas if you are simply looking for a gift for a loved one, then Celtic cross jewelry is something worth considering. Opt for pieces lovingly created in Ireland and that have been hallmarked where possible, and you’ll be able to take home a piece of the country without breaking the bank.
Stones
If you’re lucky enough to spend some time by the sea on your next visit to Ireland, why not take home a shell or a stone from the beach? It’s a way to bring home a souvenir or a gift for a loved one without spending any money, and you can even buy a sharpie and date the rock so you can look back on it in years to come and reminisce about a one-of-a-kind vacation.
Food
If you’re buying a gift for a foodie, then you can’t go too far wrong with some traditional Irish good. Think crisps (that’s chips to you and me!) and alcohol. You could even create your own Irish food hamper and take home lots of delicious treats that you can share with your family as you chat about your experiences and flick through your pictures on your iPhone.
Aran sweater
Whether you’re buying yourself a gift to take home or you’re treating your friend to a gift, the Aran sweater is definitely worth considering. These thick, comfortable sweaters are sold in three types; some are machine knit and are cheaper, some are hand-loomed and others are hand-knitted. Machine-made ones typically use merino wool which may have been imported from another country, so we recommend the latter two made from traditional Irish Donegal wool. They’re ever-so-comfortable and look great with a pair of jeans and a headband, too!
Lucky horseshoe
Horseshoes are supposed to keep evil spirits out of your home and bring in good fortunes, so they make a great gift if you’re traveling home from Ireland. The reason why Irish folk used to think they were lucky is that they were made by blacksmiths, and they came from a “lucky” trade. You can even have your horseshoe personalized for an extra-special touch.
Which of these gift ideas are you most excited about buying on your next visit to Ireland? Let us know on social media and check back soon for more of our exclusive shopping guides.
