When visiting Puerto Rico, bringing home a piece of the island’s vibrant culture is a must. From traditional handicrafts to unique souvenirs, there are plenty of items that capture the essence of Puerto Rican heritage and artistry. Here’s your guide to the best handicrafts and souvenirs to buy and where to find them.
Traditional Handicrafts
1. Vejigante Masks
What: Vejigante masks are colorful, papier-mâché masks used in festivals, especially the Ponce Carnival. They represent folkloric characters and are known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Where: Find these masks in Ponce, particularly at the Museo de la Máscara and local artisan shops in the city.
2. Santos Figures
What: Santos are hand-carved wooden figures of saints, reflecting Puerto Rico’s strong religious traditions. Each figure is meticulously crafted and painted, making them unique collectibles.
Where: Visit the town of Orocovis, known for its skilled santeros (saint carvers), or explore shops in Old San Juan like Galería Botello.
3. Mundillo Lace
What: Mundillo is a traditional Puerto Rican lace made using bobbins. This delicate lacework is often used in clothing, table linens, and decorative pieces.
Where: Head to Moca, known as the “Capital of Mundillo,” where you can find workshops and boutiques specializing in this intricate craft.
Unique Souvenirs
4. Puerto Rican Coffee
What: Puerto Rico is famous for its high-quality coffee. Brands like Café Yaucono, Café Alto Grande, and Café Lareño offer rich and aromatic blends.
Where: Purchase coffee at local supermarkets, specialty coffee shops in San Juan, or directly from plantations like Hacienda San Pedro in Jayuya.
5. Rum
What: Puerto Rico is home to world-renowned rum brands like Bacardí and Don Q. A bottle of aged Puerto Rican rum makes for a perfect souvenir.
Where: Visit the Casa Bacardí distillery in Cataño for a tour and tasting, or buy rum at duty-free shops at the airport and local liquor stores.
6. Artisanal Jewelry
What: Handmade jewelry featuring local materials such as sea glass, gemstones, and coral. Each piece is unique and reflects the island’s natural beauty.
Where: Explore the artisan markets in Old San Juan, such as Plaza Dársenas and La Placita de Santurce, where local jewelers sell their creations.
Cultural Keepsakes
7. Puerto Rican Art
What: Paintings, prints, and sculptures by local artists that depict the island’s landscapes, culture, and history.
Where: Visit art galleries in San Juan, such as Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico and Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, or browse art fairs and street markets.
8. Hammocks
What: Traditional Puerto Rican hammocks, known for their comfort and craftsmanship, are perfect for relaxing.
Where: Head to the town of San Sebastián, renowned for its hammock weavers, or purchase one at artisan shops in San Juan.
Specialty Shops and Markets
9. Local Markets
What: Markets are great places to find a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs in one spot.
Where: Visit Mercado Urbano in San Juan, Plaza del Mercado de Santurce, or the San Sebastián Street Fair for a wide selection of local goods.
10. Souvenir Shops
What: Souvenir shops offer a range of items, from T-shirts and magnets to handcrafted goods.
Where: Stroll through Old San Juan, where streets like Calle Fortaleza and Calle San Francisco are lined with shops offering diverse souvenirs.
Final Thoughts
Bringing home handicrafts and souvenirs from Puerto Rico is a wonderful way to remember your trip and share the island’s culture with loved ones. From traditional vejigante masks to delicious Puerto Rican coffee, there’s something for everyone. Use this guide to discover what to buy and where to find the best local treasures.
For more travel tips and guides on visiting Puerto Rico, check out our other blog posts. Happy shopping and enjoy your Puerto Rican adventure!
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