Culture - Heartfelt Handicrafts (Part 1)

In a world where everything seems to have been ‘Made in China’ and plastic is at pandemic levels, it’s nice to know that some places still value the creation of authentic handicrafts. Traveling the world allows us to bring back memories, as well as unique treasures from the places we visit. They tell the story of a region’s history, while helping preserve culture and support artisans. In countries like Mexico, Thailand, Portugal, Russia, Benin and New Zealand, traditional crafts are still alive and thriving. Each of these countries is known for specific types of artisanal work that are highly sought after by tourists and collectors alike. Whether you’re traveling or just curious, here’s a guide to some of the most iconic handicrafts from these diverse countries.