Imagine spending a decade of extended stays in various countries, soaking in each place's unique atmosphere. That's the backdrop of my travel memoir, I Could Live Here. One of the highlights for me has been stumbling upon local shops that genuinely capture the essence of their communities. Whether it's the skillful creations of local makers, the diverse collections in art galleries, or the cozy corners of inviting bookstores, here are just a few shops that embody the independent spirit of some of my favorite places.
Shops
Exploring Lisbon’s eclectic neighborhood of Principe Real, an upscale area well-known for its concept stores, I found Lachoix, a brand with a French touch and a 100% Portuguese identity. Founded in 2018, the core of Lacroix shoes are its star products—the loafers. A comfortable alternative to sneakers, these shoes are designed for everyday wear, especially on Lisbon’s cobblestone streets, embracing versatility and elegance with a hint of coolness. I receive compliments every time I wear Lachoix, which is often! Produced in limited editions and only with local manufacturers, Lachoix embodies Portuguese craftsmanship and stylish comfort—a must-visit for those seeking footwear that combines practicality and elegance. To celebrate its 5th Anniversary, Lachoix created a distinctive new Penny Loafer in collaboration with Burel Factory, a Portuguese heritage textile brand, bringing together the history, ancestry, and resilience of burel wool combined with Lachoix’s shoe-making expertise.
In the heart of Évora, Portugal, Gente da Minha Terra is more than a gift shop—it's a celebration of handmade Portuguese creativity. This charming store curates a collection of treasures, selling only what they truly love. Stepping inside, you'll discover a carefully chosen array of handcrafted items that reflect the passion and authenticity of the local artisans. Gente da Minha Terra is where quality meets soul, making it my go-to shop in Évora for exceptional goods proudly made in Portugal. Whether you're seeking a unique gift or indulging in a personal treat, this store is a vibrant celebration of Portuguese artisanship.
For those in search of something truly unique, Millers Tale in St Andrews is a longtime haven for those with an adventurous spirit who appreciate creative design and locally-made. Their stylish collection, also available online, designed and crafted with a sense of flair, is for those who crave something "a little bit different." The knitwear, made from merino and cashmere, is stylish and a testament to skilled artisans. Proudly British, each piece is meticulously crafted with sustainable, renewable, and natural yarns. If you're looking to discover fashion with character and longevity, Miller's Tale is a must-visit in the heart of St Andrews. I began with a single sweater in one color, then another, and yet another, to the point where it almost risks evolving into an elegantly easy travel uniform. They also have a second location in Helmsley, York.
This unique little gallery is tucked away in a quiet corner of the picturesque village of Culross, on the Firth of Forth in Fife, Scotland. Fans of the show Outlander will recognize the village's authentic backdrop as the fictional village of Cranesmuir. Showcasing and selling an eclectic mix of ceramics, jewelry, art, textiles, and glass—all crafted by Scottish artists—the gallery provides a vibrant snapshot of Scotland's creative spirit. Co-owners Kirsty Muir and Michele Daykin, both jewelers, are as fun, clever, and creative as they come. Better yet, there’s a cafe upstairs for a post-shopping cuppa and cake. I never visit this gallery without finding something unique to gift, wear, or covet.
Wandering the streets of Cusco, I stumbled upon this unassuming yet impactful store. The simplicity of their approach to fashion resonates with the authenticity of the region. Cocoliso offers a practical and ethical choice for those in search of handmade Alpaca designer clothes. The women artisans here knit a range of items—sweaters, scarves, shawls, blankets, gloves, beanies, and baby clothes—using 100% baby alpaca and pure alpaca yarn, along with natural fiber for hats. The brand stands out for its commitment to sustainability, creating quality products rooted in the local heritage. If you're in Cusco and in need of warm, locally-made attire, Cocoliso is a shop to explore. Each time I wrap myself in a Cocoliso blanket or wear one of their sweaters, it brings back beautiful memories from our extended stays in Cusco and a frequent stop whenever we’re in town.
Nestled in the charming San Blas neighborhood of Cusco, Peru, the L'Aetelier Cafe Concept store is more than your typical coffee shop—it's a unique blend of caffeine and creativity. This cozy spot is part cafe and part shop for handmade jewelry and art enthusiasts. The shelves display a vintage selection of clothes and bags, carefully curated to add a touch of uniqueness to your style. The cozy ambiance, the enticing café smells, the fabulous window seats with a view, and the eclectic collection make it a fun find for those seeking a blend of culture and comfort in the heart of historic Cusco.
In October 2011, I stepped into Soy Nica on a city street in Granada, Nicaragua, and discovered high-quality handmade leather bags, wallets, belts, and home accessories crafted by local artisans in an on-site workshop. Each piece, individually made to last, combines tradition with stylish minimalistic designs and bold color using locally sourced materials. Soy Nica is part of the fabric of Granada, the very essence of artisanal-made bags. I still carry the large yellow tote bag I purchased back then. And now, while Nicaragua’s current political and social conditions deteriorate, your support offers a conscious choice to support genuine craftsmanship and contribute to a workspace that prioritizes people.
BookStores
In the heart of St Andrews, Scotland, Topping & Co. is a family-owned literary hub boasting over 50,000 titles, a friendly and knowledgeable staff, and an enticing year-round author event schedule. With rolling ladders, a wood-burning stove, and complimentary tea and coffee, it's a cozy retreat for book lovers and an essential stop whenever I’m in town. The collection includes Signed First Editions and thoughtful recommendations. It's not just a bookstore; it's an inviting escape into a world of stories.
This delightful independent bookshop offers an eclectic collection of books catering to adults and children. Whether you're a fan of gripping novels, thought-provoking nonfiction, or niche genres, Golden Hare Books’ knowledgeable and passionate staff post helpful handwritten staff recommendations on notecards throughout the store and are happy to engage in literary conversations. Golden Hare Books is a favorite for the local literary community, hosting various literary events, book launches, and author signings. As you explore Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge neighborhood, bibliophiles won’t want to miss a visit to Golden Hare Books.
Livraria Fonte de Letras, Évora, Portugal
This independent bookstore is a sweet escape for book lovers, offering a diverse range that goes beyond the usual bestsellers with small alternative publishers and hard-to-find gems. Whether you're into thought-provoking novels or quirky reads, Fonte de Letras has something to pique your interest, including a standout children's and illustrated book section. And don't miss the quirky touch of small author-related objects sprinkled throughout the store, adding a unique charm to the browsing experience. There is also a small cafe where you can drink "Balzac Biological Coffee" or "Virginia Woolf Dramatic Earl Gray Tea." So, whether you're a seasoned bookworm or just looking for a cozy place to chill, this bookstore is pure delight.
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For more than 25 years, Garcia Street Books has been a cherished landmark on Santa Fe's East Side, embraced by locals, second-home residents, and curious tourists. This community-oriented bookstore boasts a well-curated selection that mirrors the diverse interests of its patrons. From art and style to cooking, living well, and a mix of literary fiction and nonfiction, Garcia Street Books offers a unique literary experience. I first discovered the charm of this Santa Fe gem in 1998 when they hosted an author event for a photographer I admire (Nevada Wier), and its vibrant community spirit has kept me coming back ever since. Adjacent to Garcia Street Books, Downtown Subscription is a cherished Santa Fe coffee house, cafe, and newsstand offering hundreds of periodicals. Like Garcia Books, it’s a rare and wonderful place to hang out.
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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. After 15 years as an independent content creator for travel and tourism, she has been enjoying extended stays abroad for the past decade, the inspiration behind her travel memoir, "I Could Live Here" (November 2023)