Before coming I had read about the handicraft stalls spread throughout Ezulwini Valley and Malkerns Valley, but I had no idea it would be this impressive – both in quality and creativeness. It goes without saying, money just flew out of my pockets 🙂 And this is one time I am happy it did, because a lot, dare I say most, of the items are locally made, handmade, and helps communities that have less. Not only are the products of high quality (and you’re talking to a nitpicker here 😀 ), but the shops’ expressions are worth a visit alone. The first stop on my shopping spree was Swazi Candles. I had seen products from them all over South Africa, but wanted to wait until I got to the motherland. And the selection is unlimited! Unfortunately I decided to stop by all the other stalls at the centre first, so when I finally made it to the candle shop it was filled with a busload of people. Got what I wanted, and got out of there. Next was Gone Rural. A shop which sells products made of straw. So many pretty things, but sadly in a size I couldn’t bring home 🙁 Found a small item still 🙂 At the same place you’ll find Baobab Batik. I am not much of a batik person, but the prints they have here I just had to get. And a red bracelet made of straw – love it! I had told myself that there would be no jewellery coming back with me from this trip, but I just could not leave without it! Both these stores are located at the Manlandela’s Centre, which is so playful in its design, that it actually reminded me of Antoni Gaudi. Last stop was Mantenga Craft & Lifestyle Centre. Maybe not the fanciest of places, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have great shopping. I definitely made it out of there with a bag of tea, beeswax lip balm and hand lotion. And if you are hungry homemade gnocchi sounds like a good place to start. When I finally made it back to my hotel with all my treasures, I realised the hotel shop has really good stuff. Suddenly I was the proud owner of a new handbag. Then it was over and out. Thankfully.
I love finding handcrafted items when I travel. It’s so fun to see the different designs from all over the world! #farawayfiles
I love finding the good ones, the treasures. Then my money flies 🙂
I see your point. I would have left with a full bag and a lot of overweight luggage. You’d have to give me a cash spending limit. I love handcraft stalls! #FarawayFiles
Then you should head for Swaziland! The selection is varied and quality is very good. You’re gonna love it 🙂
Oh I would want to spend loads here too! I love picking up a piece of hand crafted art on our travels for souvenirs. I’d love one of those straw floral pads – so cool! Thanks for sharing and good to know to bring extra spending cash! Cheers from Copenhagen, Erin #FarawayFiles
I like well-crafted, somewhat functional items or very special ones, otherwise they’ll sit on the shelf only and collect dust. I am trying to downsize 🙂
I love that you were able to include links to some of the shops! That way we can check them out too 😉 #farawayfiles
Good 🙂
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Thanks 🙂