Top 5 souvenirs to bring back from Reunion Island

To bring back a piece of their vacation home, many people look for souvenirs to pack in their suitcases during their travels. What if you brought back a bit of the sweetness of Reunion Island to mainland France? There, natural and artisanal treasures abound, offering you a wide range of choices! Here's a quick overview of some gems to bring back from your journey in the middle of the Indian Ocean...

Bourbon Vanilla, the star product of Reunion Island

Renowned worldwide, Bourbon vanilla boasts an intoxicating aroma and exceptional quality. Harvested manually, it undergoes a lengthy natural drying process and seems infused with all the sunshine of Reunion Island. This local product is available at numerous markets across the island. Its subtle fragrance will enhance your dishes and pastries upon your return to France, reminding you of all the delights of Reunionese cuisine.

Souvenirs de La Réunion

Flavored rum, the delight of an ancestral craftsmanship

Another flavor to bring back in your suitcase: that of flavored rum. Indeed, Reunion Island is home to several distilleries, active since the 17th century, stemming from the cultivation of sugarcane. Flavored rum, on the other hand, is made by blending traditional white rum with other ingredients such as spices, fruits, or emblematic plants of Reunion Island. This alcohol possesses an incredible flavor and is typically served at the end of meals as a digestif.

Spices to enhance your dishes

To awaken your taste buds upon your return from vacation, don't forget to bring along some Reunion Island spices. In this regard, the Perfume and Spice Garden of Saint-Philippe in the south of Reunion Island is a must-visit. Cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg... The choices are plentiful. However, the most popular spice from Reunion Island is turmeric. A flagship product of the archipelago, turmeric is hand-extracted and produces a highly aromatic orange powder. Be cautious though, as its pigments can leave indelible stains on clothing. On the other hand, aside from its subtle fragrance, turmeric boasts numerous virtues. It notably exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it highly valued in traditional and natural medicine.

Que ramener de La Réunion

Jewelry made from lava stone from Piton de la Fournaise volcano

Because Reunion Island's volcano is a globally famous symbol, how about bringing back some lava rock as a souvenir? Taking it directly from the volcano's slopes and putting it in your suitcase is strictly prohibited! However, this rock is used by local artisans to create various items. Therefore, you can bring it back in the form of necklaces, earrings, or even stone pestles.

Colorful baskets like those found in the typical markets of the island

Finally, if you stroll through various markets in Reunion Island, you will be fascinated by the multitude of colorful baskets that flood the stalls. These are perfect for accompanying you to the beach or for carrying your groceries. Made from woven vacoa, a typical plant of the Indian Ocean, they result from traditional craftsmanship.

Souvenirs de La Réunion

Fly to Reunion Island!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular souvenirs to bring back from Reunion Island?

The most popular souvenirs to bring back from Reunion Island include local products such as spices, sweets, vanilla-based products, wooden objects, coral jewelry, handicrafts, and island-themed items like t-shirts and cushions.

Where can I buy souvenirs in Reunion Island?

You can buy souvenirs in Reunion Island from souvenir shops, local markets, craft boutiques, and art galleries. You can also purchase souvenirs online from local stores.

What are typical souvenirs from Reunion Island?

Typical souvenirs from Reunion Island include spices, handicrafts, books on the island's history and culture, and local products such as agricultural rum and jams. You can also bring back souvenirs inspired by the island's nature, such as seashells, minerals, and dried plants.