BRING Back a TREAT

Want some sweet and unusual ideas for a take-home gift? EUAN MCKIRDY has it all wrapped up

Singapore Homespun

This Simei Street shop is home to a charming collection of regionally sourced, conversation-starting original arts and crafts, and fashion items. Most of its designers are local and the company places an emphasis on supporting cottage industries, meaning that your purchases not only look good, but are also helping local people to support themselves. www.homespun.info

Sydney The Corner Shop

This eclectic boutique is a favourite with young Sydneysiders, and for good reason. It brings together emerging and international cult fashion names like Acne, Mike & Chris and Humanoid, with local, rising-star brands such as Anna & Boy and Willow. Vintage finds are another great draw for this Paddington store. www.belinda.com.au

Ho Chi Minh City Duc Minh Art Gallery

This locally run gallery specialises in Vietnamese art, and is one of the more accessible for non-Vietnamese speakers. Staff are more than happy to explain, in English, the history and meaning behind the traditional art on sale. Artists exclusive to the gallery include the twins Le Duc Hai and Le Ngoc Thanh, as well as Tinh Hoai Huong and Vu Thang. 31 C Le Quy Don Street, Ho Chi Minh City, tel: +84 (0)8 933 0498

Tokyo Urushell Jewellery

Made from abalone shell by the artisans at highly regarded Fuji Torii of Harajuku, this elegant jewellery is prized by Tokyo’s trendy set. The shell is cut then lacquered in red, gold or black. www.fuji-torii.com

Hong Kong Vero

Vero chocolates is described by its artisan chocolatier founder Roger Chan as “Hong Kong’s worst-kept secret”. Its delicious and inventive cocoa-centric offerings are well worth the trip and the shop’s new location at Fenwick Pier in Wan Chai is the perfect place to imbibe their exquisite hot chocolate. www.verochocolates.com

Hua Hin, Thailand Hua Hin Hills Vineyard

An unexpected surprise on the southeast coast of Thailand, two hours drive from the capital, this vineyard is built on the site of an old elephant corral (elephants are still put to work here). The grapes – which include Colombard, Chenin, Black Muscat and Shiraz – are used in various Siam Winery products, including its Monsoon Valley Wines. www.huahinhillsvineyard.com