Photo ↑ by @maries_sweets_
Corfu has an incredible culture, much of it reflecting over its unique products. Each vacation leaves some good memories. That is why everyone tries to bring some memories back home, whether for themselves or their loved ones.
But unlike other destinations, Corfu is not all about cups, pens and fridge magnets. It is also about a series of things you may not necessarily be able to find anywhere else. If you are after something that stands out, here are a few useful ideas.
Kumquat Liquor
The tiny fruit grows in Corfu due to the perfect conditions. It was brought from China during the 19th century. Overtime, it has become a native of Corfu as well. It can be used in numerous recipes or eaten raw, but locals also use it to make an incredible kumquat liquor.
The liquor is sweet and has a lower alcohol percentage than other liquors, so it is relatively simple to drink. You can find it in most souvenir shops, but be careful with restrictions in the airport if you travel with hand luggage only. Sometimes, it pays off buying it after passing the security.
There are other things made of kumquats too, such as marmalade or cookies, but the liquor stands out.
Olive Oil Soap
Olive oil soap is not just very healthy, but also skin friendly. Of course, stick to naturally made products, rather than random brands. In Corfu, olive oil soap has been made manually for many generations, hence its popularity on the island.
You can find olive oil soap in almost every souvenir shop. Interested to learn more about it while in town? Feel free to visit the Patounis’ Soap Factory as well, often advertised to be a museum. The factory also has its own shop.
Tavli
Big fan of board games? No problem. Like other countries, Greece also has its own board games. Tavli is very similar to backgammon and represents one of the most popular games on the island. You need an extra player, while the rules are relatively simple to understand.
While you can find all kinds of boards, if you truly want to make an impression, opt for a beautiful handmade one.
Ouzo
Ouzo is a national drink in Greece, so you can also find it all around Corfu. It is the type of drink you either hate or love. It has a strong aniseed aroma, so if you truly want to bring something Greek back home, you cannot go wrong with ouzo.
Again, it might be wiser to get it after you pass airport security, unless you have big luggage. If you hate the aroma, stick to kumquat liquor or a local wine instead.
Leather Sandals
Leather crafting is still going strong in Corfu. From this point of view, you will find lots of small shops in the old town selling leather stuff, from belts and jackets to handbags and wallets. Leather sandals, however, scream vacation.
Sandals were worn by ancient inhabitants and are still comfortable and durable today.
Still undecided? Here are a few other things you should consider as souvenirs:
- Olive oil. There are millions of olive oil trees in Corfu, making the island one of the biggest exporters in the world.
- Ceramics. Local artisans are known for making a wide variety of clay pieces, making excellent, but fragile souvenirs.
- Herbs. The Greek cuisine would be nothing without spices and herbs. Get some home with you, so you can prepare your own Greek dishes.
- Olive wood stuff. Wood sculpting also has a rich history in Corfu, so you can find all kinds of souvenir based on durable and strong olive wood.
- Honey. Opt for locally produced honey and you will definitely experience a completely new flavour.
- Kozinaki. The traditional Greek sweet is based on nuts, seeds and syrup. You can find it in most shops.