A confession, dear reader: I am not one for the gaudy trinkets so often peddled to unsuspecting travelers. Little do I care for tchotchkes that serve as pallid reminders of fleeting journeys, nor for the burden of gifting such ephemera to those unfortunate enough to be absent from my adventures. Yet, there exist certain souvenirs from Barbados, delightfully peculiar and thoughtfully chosen, that I have come to cherish. Allow me to share with you a few such treasures, uniquely Barbadian, that are certain to delight your loved ones.
Ideas for great souvenirs from Barbados
Rum: Imagine, if you will, a dark and potent liquid that smells like sunshine and sugarcane, bottled in glass. It’s a souvenir from Barbados that can, quite literally, alter one’s perception of reality. One sip, and the world might seem a much brighter, more hilarious place. Several sips, and one might find oneself believing one is a flying fish.
Mauby syrup or Sorrel syrup: Mauby syrup is a curious concoction indeed. It’s a dark, mysterious liquid, brewed from the bark of a tree that may or may not exist. The locals in Barbados seem to enjoy it mixed with water, so it’s probably safe to drink. Probably.
Sorrel syrup, on the other hand, is made from the sorrel flower, which sounds quite cheerful, doesn’t it? This syrup is potent, with a zippy flavor that, when mixed with water, might make your taste buds do a little dance.
Either syrup would make a peculiar souvenir, a reminder of your trip to Barbados. Just be sure to warn your friends and family before they try it. You wouldn’t want to be responsible for any unexpected facial contortions.
Pepper sauce: Bajan pepper sauce is a curious and brightly coloured condiment that, when added to a fishcake or flying fish cutter, adds a certain zing. It’s probably just a harmless condiment but it definitely has the ability to make one sit up and take notice. It’s the kind of souvenir that, well, one certainly won’t forget.
Guava cheese: This pinkish-orange block is entirely lactose-free. It is made up of guava, cooked down with sugar (and sometimes lime), then pressed into a dense, almost fudge-like consistency. One might slice it, perhaps alongside a cracker or two, or even enjoy it on its own. It is a souvenir that will undoubtedly spark conversation, and perhaps a touch of bewilderment
Rum Cake: As the name suggests, these moist cakes come saturated in rum. They are a souvenir that is, in essence, a portable (non-liquid) reminder of Barbados’ character.
My parents visited Barbados on many occasions and would, upon their return from Barbados, present me with one of these rum cakes. And I, in turn, would consume the rum cake. A simple exchange, really. They brought cake. I ate cake. The wheels of parental affection expressed through baked goods, turned smoothly.
Earthworks pottery: This pottery, painted in colours that would make a peacock blush, can be found all around the island. One can purchase a mug, perhaps, or a small dish. Useful for holding… things. Liquids, in the case of the mug. Small, dry objects, for the dish. One might even hang a decorative piece upon a wall. It will simply be there.
I hope you’ve been inspired by this list of Barbados souvenir ideas. If you’re looking for more, here are all of my posts about Barbados, including tips for planning your trip, and essential Barbados travel experiences.
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