5 LGBTQ+ Friendly Souvenirs to Bring Home From Your Travels
Celebrate your travels with LGBTQ+ friendly souvenirs that support queer creators and local artisans. From handcrafted jewelry in Cairo to vibrant pottery in Curacao, these keepsakes capture the spirit of inclusive travel.
Souvenirs are more than just keepsakes—they’re tangible memories of the adventures we’ve had, the people we’ve met, and the cultures we’ve experienced. For LGBTQ+ travelers, souvenirs can also be a way to support queer creators and local businesses, ensuring our travel dollars contribute to inclusive communities around the world.
From colorful keepsakes in Curacao to unique handcrafted goods in Egypt, here’s a guide to LGBTQ+ friendly souvenirs you can bring home from your travels, all while supporting local artisans and queer-owned businesses.
1. Rainbow-Inspired Artwork – Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ district, Shinjuku Ni-Chome, a hub of creativity and inclusivity. Many local artists create rainbow-inspired artwork celebrating queer culture, making these pieces perfect souvenirs.
Where to Shop:
Rainbow Events in Ni-Chome: Visit pop-up art markets during Tokyo Rainbow Pride in April, where queer artists showcase their work.
Common People Shop: A quirky store in Harajuku offering rainbow pins, stationery, and art prints by LGBTQ+ creators.
Why It’s Special:
Buying queer artwork supports local artists while letting you bring a piece of Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ spirit into your home.
Pro Tip: Pair your artwork with a calligraphy set or washi tape from nearby craft stores to personalize your travel diary or create DIY gifts.
2. Handcrafted Jewelry – Cairo, Egypt
While Egypt’s LGBTQ+ rights can be restrictive, there’s a vibrant underground community of queer artisans creating stunning handcrafted goods. Supporting these creators helps amplify their voices while preserving traditional crafts.
Where to Shop:
Khan el-Khalili Market: Seek out independent stalls selling unique silver and beaded jewelry.
Queer Artisan Groups: Look for LGBTQ+ inclusive shops on platforms like Etsy or Instagram that ship worldwide from Cairo-based creators.
Why It’s Special:
Each piece tells a story of resilience and artistry, blending traditional Egyptian designs with modern flair.
Pro Tip: For a discreet souvenir, choose jewelry with symbolic motifs like the ankh, which represents life and connection.
3. Vibrant Pottery – Curacao, Caribbean
Curacao is a Caribbean paradise that’s as colorful as its rainbow-painted buildings in Willemstad. This LGBTQ+ friendly island offers stunning pottery inspired by its natural beauty and rich culture.
Where to Shop:
Nena Sanchez Gallery: A queer-friendly artist who creates vibrant ceramic pieces that capture the island’s spirit.
Floating Market: Visit this lively spot to find handmade clay pots and vases painted in bright Caribbean hues.
Why It’s Special:
These one-of-a-kind ceramics brighten up any space while supporting local artisans in a queer-welcoming destination.
Pro Tip: Choose lightweight pieces or smaller items like coasters or decorative tiles to make packing easier.
4. Rainbow Pride Flags and Apparel – Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, offers plenty of opportunities to pick up souvenirs that celebrate pride and community.
Where to Shop:
Greenmarket Square: Browse stalls selling colorful pride flags, t-shirts, and accessories created by local LGBTQ+ vendors.
The Book Lounge: This queer-friendly bookstore often features Pride-themed items and LGBTQ+ literature.
Why It’s Special:
Pride-inspired souvenirs from Cape Town double as both mementos and symbols of global solidarity.
Pro Tip: Bring back an extra Pride flag or t-shirt to gift to a friend—it’s a fun way to share your travels and support the LGBTQ+ community.
5. Locally Crafted Tequila and Glassware – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is a hotspot for queer travelers, blending vibrant nightlife with authentic Mexican culture. Locally made tequila and handblown glassware are standout souvenirs that reflect the city’s flavor and charm.
Where to Shop:
Galería Colectika: Find artisanal tequila bottles and unique glassware crafted by local LGBTQ+ artists.
Zona Romántica Markets: Explore stalls offering tequila sets and colorful tumblers perfect for home bartending.
Why It’s Special:
These items bring a taste of Puerto Vallarta to your home while supporting queer-owned businesses.
Pro Tip: Pair your tequila with a traditional molinillo (wooden whisk) for mixing authentic Mexican hot chocolate—a fun nod to the region’s culinary heritage.
Tips for Shopping LGBTQ+ Friendly Souvenirs:
Do Your Research: Look for queer-owned or LGBTQ+ inclusive businesses before you travel.
Ask for Recommendations: Local LGBTQ+ communities often know the best shops and creators to support.
Be Mindful of Cultural Sensitivity: Choose souvenirs that honor local traditions without appropriating cultural symbols.
Final Thoughts: Souvenirs with Pride
LGBTQ+ friendly souvenirs are more than just keepsakes—they’re a way to celebrate queer culture, support local artisans, and bring home meaningful pieces of your travel journey. Whether it’s a vibrant piece of pottery from Curacao or a handcrafted ring from Cairo, these items remind us of the beauty of connection, creativity, and inclusivity.
Ready to Shop and Explore?
Join Ladies Touch Travel’s LGBTQ+ Women’s Group Trips to visit these destinations and discover local treasures alongside like-minded travelers. Book your next adventure today and collect souvenirs with pride!