The Best Souvenirs to Buy in Florence, Italy - What I Brought Home with Rajiv Surendra

[@juliettebobcat704]

Every time you're showing us stuff, I think of your little cousin saying, "show me your treasures!" This was fantastic-gloves are a great packable gift. I would forget and put the scissors in my carry-on.

[@desertrose128]

Me too lol

[@Sanity_Faire]

🤦🏻‍♀ I lost two carved pocket knives that way

[@juliettebobcat704]

@Sanity-thats too bad.

[@Sanity_Faire]

😭

[@sandrahammond5566]

😂!

[@janelte]

"Those are my treasures from Italy" ... and YOU are our treasure from New York

[@kimclarke5018]

Actually he’s from Canada 🇨🇦

[@janelte]

@@kimclarke5018 But he films for us from New York. Made in Canada, via Sri Lanka, purchased in New York treasure then?

[@odemonet]

He is a treasure!

[@lovleypoppy]

I would love to see you go to Sri Lanka and introduce us to the beautiful things there too. 😊

[@nostraa6125]

He did! It's him.😊

[@jjdicarloutube]

A glove freak too so thanks for the tip. We’ll be in Florence next month. Dude - whatever entity that created you smiles daily at your full use of all of your wonderful talents and curiosities. You probably don’t get it because you are … you but you are an incredible human being. When your little cousin asked if he could “see your treasures,” all the treasure is YOU. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, I’m so jealous of anyone who gets to spend any time with you.

[@desertrose128]

💯 such a treasure, indeed.😊

[@VancouverBorn]

How beautifully, wonder-fully put! ❤

[@portuguesehydrangea4818]

Beautifully said. I agree 💯Rajiv is the best human! ❤

[@User-s3i6x]

I bought great gloves at El Corte Ingles in Madrid: much less expensive than in Florence.

[@kristinej.9599]

Just pausing to ask you to consider filming a full espresso tutorial using an espresso pot, including beans, grind, any special tips u have to get the best flavor. Thanks.

[@lindalewis6158]

great idea! I'm always burning mine.

[@88sstraight]

Moka pot coffee is great stuff but it is definitely not espresso.

[@mbtvalli]

@@88sstraightthat’s interesting. Difference?

[@88sstraight]

@@mbtvalli The required pressure is the biggest difference, 1-2 bars for moka vs 6-9 for espresso. This along with the finer grind required for espresso makes for a very different, more concentrated cup. James Hoffmann, Lance Hedrick et al will provide much better explanations than I ever could.

[@kristinej.9599]

@@88sstraight So true, but its what I and so many others use.

[@Artujackrussel]

THANK YOU SO SO SO SO MUCH RAJIV for being an educated, conscious traveller!!! Unfortunately tourist shops are a big problem and a contributor to depopulation of italians in major cities. Thank you for supporting local business and educating people about quality ❤︎❤︎❤︎❤︎

[@Surethinghy]

As an Italian, thank you, Rajiv, for your love and appreciation for my troubled country! I hope you were treated with the respect you truly deserve and that you felt welcomed. Looking forward to your next visit! ❤

[@susanengleman1310]

Rajiv!!!!! You are an amazing artist. Your paintings are so beautiful.

[@mariaelenaloveslove]

My former mother in law had an Italian lover...she found him crying his eyes out 1 day. When he was finally able 2 stop crying. He said.... Margo I have lost my gloves of pork. Thanks 4 reminding me. I am so happy you do a " little" proper souvenir shopping . Firenza 4eva!

[@biddydibdab9180]

Rajiv, you are indeed living your life very well. At 71 I wish I had followed my heart instead of my head and done much of what you are doing. ❤️

[@adelamoon]

The paintings are beautiful. Thank you for sharing.

[@odalissk]

The paintings are beautiful. The artfulness of the parcel itself is I must say, impressive

[@Momma_AL]

I love how the things you bring into your life have a story behind them. There’s a REASON this specific object is in your home. I really love that.

[@sallyb7472]

Could you show us how you do more things in the kitchen. Show us how you use your new mocha pot, make some more food, do what you do. PS got your book. Can barely wait to read it!

[@bhanani5480]

Please tell me where you purchased the book, Im trying to find a copy here in New Zealand. His book is on my (short) reading list but one I really want to read. Wouldn't it be cool if he did an audio book for it too?

[@LN0818]

I have two pairs of gloves from Madova that I purchased on a trip to Florence years ago. They have held up really well and I love them! Thank you for sharing your trip to Italy with us.

[@aprilninthr2886]

How fabulous is Rajiv. Now this is how you get the most out of Italy…trust him. Rajiv..your paintings are exquisite…so well done. But, then, everything you do is perfection. If I had your talent in just one finger, I’d be a happy woman. You made me so happy. Be well.

[@hollygsphpr]

👏👏👏your 🎨 paintings & good shopping, I have always sourced some local craft or products when travelling for over 40yrs, usually something practical to wear or for use, I bought little Italian leather boots for my baby son when travelling with him in Sardinia in 1982 🤭the shoe store was something out of the 1940s, all boxes & tissue paper from floor to ceiling❤

[@John-i4d5f]

Great I so agree I visit Italy twice a year - scissors, hardware, homeware, textiles all for me!

[@margeaudyer7288]

Thanks for sharing all of your Fiorentina sources. Your paintings are SPECTACULAR!!

[@linaD08]

Watching this video while Julie Andrews sang in my head “and these are a few of my favorite things……” Wonderful👏👏👏 I love that your “souvenirs” are utilitarian items that remind you of your wonderful trips. I do the same, I try to honor the craftsmanship of the local artisans and also the energy of the local raw materials. I also bring a small rock or pebble from the country or place I visit. Thank you for sharing.

[@Cheryl-n8i]

I love Saturday mornings. Time spent with Rajiv Is Time Well Spent. ❤

[@nlbhaduri]

Zecchi was right down the street from my hotel in Firenze so I went in and came out with the most beautifully made traveling painter’s seat that I then HAND CARRIED on the plane home. Talk about an IMPULSE BUY! But things are so well crafted in Italy you can’t help it…I also purchased a leather and suede jacket from the School of Leather behind the church….it’s touristic but still a great visit…items are traditionally made.

[@utahdan231]

I’m impressed with your painting skills. You’re multitalented. Coffee maker is the best. I use mine to this time. I got it after my parents and it was brought from Italy in late 1960-s. It was a prototype of pressure coffee maker. You have a lot of beautiful memories.

[@lindajanke6194]

Wonderful treasures that will remind you of rich, happy experiences every single day! You spent your time and money well and shared with others along the way. Thank you for including us. ❤

[@MarinaPatanè-t9p]

I am your number one italian fan! Maybe it sounds strange but i always watch one of your videos to take a "beauty and elegance booster" when i feel i need one.

[@angelacalinski8536]

I would love to see a video of your watercolor / oil painting supplies/ what you recomend, how you store them. What colors / brands you love the most. Please please please ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@TheDam1776]

Welcome home! I love leather gloves. Good purchase!

[@SP-fw1xe]

My NYC kitchen is filled with Alessi products. I love them because they produce well designed, artful products. They don’t look like gadgets on your countertops. Alessi is readily available in NYC or online.

[@SeaBatiste]

What a great video!!!!! When I travel, visiting the local supermarket or outdoor market is a treat. It's free, and I always find something to bring back, like sardines, as a souvenir!

[@mariadamelio6974]

I don't know if you've already talked about it but I always wonder what the story is behind your gold bracelets 😊

[@michelleinpa]

Me, too - I was actually getting ready to write Rajiv a letter asking if there is a story about them, he can share!!

[@sandrahammond5566]

I love the paintings! Theresa! Great, muted colors!!

[@FrankWeaver]

I’d love to see Conan’s Jordan Schlansky meet Rajiv! It would be hilarious to watch them discuss Italy and other topics-totally opposite personalities but with the same level of passion.

[@nadab4750]

...and Conan again, randomly exclaiming "Pesto!"...in his comedically cringeworthy effort to speak Italian to the locals? 😂 👱❤️

[@SurelyMac]

Rajiv, your videos, your elegant style, cheerfulness and content, make me so happy. Thank you

[@marilyns6043]

I agree - I LOVE going to hardware stores in other countries! It’s a window into daily life and it’s so cool to be able to find quality items (sometimes even handmade). Drawer pulls, iron door knockers, goat bells, pitchers, etc. Love it!

[@swicheroo1]

You are my Spirit Animal. That's what I always remark to my wife, when watching. I also like hardware stores and love to research the items that are the excellence of the region. My last trip to Japan involved a really great hardware store binge (ended up with many artisanal broom-like brushes). And I brought back knives and pruning shears...

[@SusanGeyer-l4k]

My mother, bless her, also never left the house without gloves. She had some beautiful kid- skin ones, always in their special box. I have a pair of lined pig skin and various pairs of the riding and driving kind. My wedding gloves were white silk satin...very posh! Chip off the old block, you may think.😊

[@carolbulmer8253]

Hi, Rajiv. Thanks for sharing your treasures from Florence. I especially like the leather gloves. The paintings are beautiful.

[@elizabethglenbentley7882]

Loved, loved this video for 2 reasons seeing your excitement and the items that brought that ecstasy with it. I always enjoy your sharing quality and meaning to those treasurable objects. Thanks for sharing, from Denmark 🇩🇰.

[@alro11]

so great following along your trip to Florence 🎉 thanks Rajiv for taking us along with you 🩵🩵🩵

[@aliceroseduerr3089]

Already looking forward to a video next year showing the varnished paintings.

[@ChristineC-nk5fd]

Beautiful paintings. You have become an awesome artist. Love all what you brought home. I enjoyed all your filming in Italy. I look forward to seeing all your videos. Much love from Hiram GA❤

[@Iainey]

oh how magical! I totally adore quality craft items too 🥰✨

[@lovleypoppy]

Beautiful blue comforter!

[@susanphend2189]

I looked online at the Alessi stainless espresso maker a few years ago and didn’t buy. Now I’m thinking I need to make that purchase! Thank you for sharing your life journey, Rajiv. ❤️

[@nostraa6125]

I saw it on Amazon.

[@susanrombak7959]

The paintings are simply mesmerizing! They look so lifelike, yet immortalized. ✌🏽

[@donnajarvis9542]

I love Italian design for the kitchen. Everything you bought is beautiful.

[@juliannearlene7244]

My favorite shopping in Firenze is the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy/Perfumery. Heavenly!

[@cathierose2009]

Hardware stores are the best. I’ve purchased seed packets of plants I can’t find at home. So i grew cordoonies this year

[@Sanity_Faire]

Gooogglinggg

[@Sanity_Faire]

Cardoons?

[@patyeaman]

Breaded and fried, a wonderful childhood memory! Good luck with your plants.

[@cathierose2009]

@@Sanity_Faire An italian vegetablle, related to artichoke. Stem is eaten. My MIL called them cardoonies

[@beyourownbeliever]

Rajiv you are an amazing man…I can feel every word when you talking about bella arte…🙏🏽❤️

[@wangarimuriithi8748]

I was so eager to see whatvyou brought back from Italy. When you said that was it, after the coffee presses. I said "no its not". Your camera person has already shien us a preview of unopened packages lying on the floor. By God Rajiv you are super talented. Those 2 paintings are exquisite. You have put in the work and deserve all good things.

[@marisataylor8308]

Your room is so beautiful !

[@sandiepetersonsellsraleigh]

Beautiful paintings. Your videos are always a pleasure to watch. Thank you

[@carolinefiller3745]

That little Alessi pot is gorgeous

[@jenniferhazell9488]

You are a fantastic artist Rajiv and thank you for sharing love from Australia xx

[@bonnerdebbie]

Paintings are beautifully done! Stunning gloves and scissors!! Thanks Rajiv!!

[@lindametten4010]

Beautiful paintings.

[@flowerboy7810]

Love a good hardware store! When I'm at estate sales especially I often find old scissors made in Italy or Germany. The trouble is finding a place that sharpens scissors. Most knife sharpeners don't. Still I can't say no to high quality scissors! I can't say I've heard anyone else but you nerd out about scissors, Rajiv! A kindred spirit. 😊

[@sherrycohen1824]

Your videos always bring me joy and more knowledge about the good things in life. Your paintings are stunning. You are so talented! The leather gloves are a bargain. I've seen acrylic gloves in department stores in the U.S. for $35.00 and up. Forget about the price of leather ones, and they're not as supple and beautiful. I love Alessi designs. When I travel, I also love to go to shops that sell home goods partly because I want to add to my collection and partly because it gives me a better idea of what the locals' homes look like and have. I hope one day SOON you will write a lifestyle book with the names of all your sources and lots of photos.

[@mpalmer8449]

I have the exact espresso maker, the 3 cup. I have had it 30 years. Love it!!!!!! I have all his products, they are beautiful! Spaghetti pot, cooking vessels and serving, tea pots..... Love them all....

[@hindolbittern]

🇬🇧I’ve always bought bristle brushes, for painting, in little Italian hardware shops. I haven’t been for ages but I’m very glad that the stores and the brushes are still there.

[@FabioOrtega]

Alfonso Bialetti went with aluminium for his moka pot design since it transfers heat more quickly, so your pot is ready in less time and you're less likely to end up with a burnt-tasting cup. That said, if you adjust your method (and with a modern stove and beans, you definitely should) I'm sure either material is good. This Alessi one is a design by Aldo Rossi, real stunner! If it's not yet obvious, I'd love to see Rajiv going down the coffee rabbit hole in future videos 😅

[@rebacarmack8335]

I love looking around in hardware stores in general. Find some really neat things.

[@jenniferheth8117]

Great tip to check out hardware stores I never thought of that. It’s sad that you used to be able to buy scissors of that caliber and quality in the US. My mother still has some scissors and shears that she likely got from her mother and they last forever. Thank you for the inspiration to buy quality items-they are still out there, just infinitely more difficult to find if one lives stateside. I wish we had more stores here that sold high quality items.

[@naomiwargel7000]

Rajiv, your paintings are magnificent!! Such God-given talent!❤

[@ancientwisdom108]

Woah! I'm not easily impressed, but the Teresa painting is amazing! Blessings from Florida 🙏🌍🕊🕊

[@debbiewarren5538]

What a wonderful trip! I'm going to Florence in April and am super excited to visit the wonderful shops you've shown us, especially the glove shop! Thank you for sharing your interests♥

[@julieschwartz2135]

This was so fun..you were like a kid in a candy shop showing us your treasures!

[@donnajarvis9542]

What beautiful paintings. I am so impressed.

[@sarahp1383]

Thank you for sharing all the treasures which you brought home from Italy. Its a wonderful feeling when you come home and unbox the things which you have chosen with love, in the privacy of your apartment. Beautiful purchases . And your paintings are classic.

[@midlifemom5829]

Beautiful! Love your channel! You have a peaceful Mr Rogers aura that brings calm to my stressful days.

[@kimmaguire3621]

Treasures indeed! The light and shadows of your paintings is beautiful.

[@tracyleecornish5398]

Hi Rajiv, Your treasures from Italy are very unique and beautiful! I noticed your chair, I have one like that very similar in my living room I absolutely love it! I like combining classic new with old as I enjoy antique furniture. I really appreciate the makers expertise and careful patience with each item made in that era. I also have a great Italian coffee perculator and wouldnt use anything else. Its part of the morning ritual that I enjoy. I totally understand your excitement of finding a really nice one. Your gloves are beautiful! Your paintings caught the light so beautifully and the colours you chose muted understated but serene. Would love to see more of your painting process in future videos. Thank You for sharing.

[@dianehenry6540]

Absolutely beautiful paintings! I see some John Singer Sargent's influence and know he is a favourite of yours and as well as mine. I'm reading the Charteris book right now and am enjoying it. Not that I'm drawing any parallels, but I was called our family's "Artist" by my beloved Grandmother, when I was 10 or 11 years old and I guess it stuck, as I have a degree in Sculpture, taught high school Art until I was 68 and am now 80. I haven't carved stone in several years, but I still make prints with a local group of diverse if elderly friends. I was going to say that I am watching you grow into a Renaissance Man, but I think you have been one for many years and are now honing your skills! And what a place to do it... I've been to Florence twice and always thought I could live there. My last trip to Italy was to the Amalfi Coast and the mementos I brought back were kitchen towels for friends and family. They didn't break en route to Texas and everyone loved them. I used one today after I washed my hair. Such grand times!

[@donnashelley3939]

Hardware store is "la ferramenta." Love the gloves. Love Florence!

[@sherrigarrett3649]

Everything, most notably your art, is beautiful!

[@CanadaFree-ce9jn]

You have some great useful items. When i went to French speaking Montreal I got some kitchen knives from France for the French connection. From their Italian quarter, I got gelato and a moka pot magnet. lol Madova sells gloves online for those who can't go. Also most major moka pot companies sell gadgets, just be sure to order the right size. I replaced my old pot with a new one, it is "6-cup" but I put in 3 tablespoons of coffee and drink it all as one cup.

[@rpbphx]

The large moka pot is a Michael Graves design. Beautiful.

[@claudiamann7111]

Wonderful treasures. Your paintings are stunning. Can't wait to see where you hang them. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@userrobinmp]

WOW gorgeous gloves, I love quality gloves, that baby coffee maker is "soooo cuuuuute"(said in a squeeky voice)😍I have Gugenheim scissors, they are black steel with brass trim and screw. How exciting!!! Wow! you painted those?? VERY niiiice Rajiv!

[@stephaniesharkey3538]

Silk is actually very warm!!!!!

[@dianamcdonald4964]

Awesome video, it was wonderful to see your treasures from Italy. Florence is a fantastic city for creative people.

[@yettawat1564]

Your painting skill is tremendous!

[@cathlynmosby2216]

Rajiv, your paintings are beautiful. You made your time in Italy filled with special moments, thank you!

[@Benintende1952]

When Rajiv said he was “having a harp lesson” - I heard it as having a “heart blessing.” I thought that was so sweet as if when we are experiencing something good it should be labeled a heart blessing.

[@crystalassam433]

Your talent knows no boundaries ❤

[@pbinsb3437]

So happy for you that you spent time in Italy. Your paintings are gorgeous

[@hayleilei9604]

Your tip with hardware stores reminds me of my favourite one in Marseille, Maison Empereur. It opened in 1827 and is unbelievably wonderful! Loved this video ❤your paintings are beautiful!

[@k.be.2862]

Great paintings!!

[@arianahoule7223]

Ah, your paintings are magnifico. What fun opening packages with you. Sending loving and peace-filled thoughts to everyone.

[@Print229]

This is a great channel for young people, starting out in life, especially. Also, empty nesters who are done with the childcare and eldercare years.

[@laurenbrewton9277]

Welcome back Rajiv, evertime I watch one of your videos my heart skips a beat. I love them, you make my heart smile. I appreciate you and all of your talents and treasure. You are truly one in a million.

[@stacyzou9037]

i love this entire series!!!! from packing to back home w the souvenir haul!

[@janetgriffin7779]

Love Madova!! I bought a pair for my Mom and she LOVED them.

[@adey1782]

Rajiv! I bought that exact Alessi 1 cup moka pot two weeks ago to replace my aluminum one and it is the BEST!!!

[@hannahg5479]

I'm a seamstress-- all my scissors I use for work are made in Italy. I don't know when or why we as a community decided Italian scissors were the way to go, but its a thing! Clever idea to bring them back with you!

[@ginaachoi]

I’m going to Florence next week so this is EXTREMELY timely. Thank you so much!

[@catetanenbaum2418]

Wow the paintings came out so luminous! Beautiful!

[@cassandragunkel6101]

Art stores in college locations abroad are excellent. I found excellent pants, brushes, supplies in Paris around the Sorbonne. Hip stuff, hip students, hip cafes.

[@sarahb3606]

Excellent treasures and beautiful paintings. Years ago I bought fine leather unlined gloves in Florence. I wear them every autumn when the first chill arrives and they are still in such good condition. They are a vivid fuchsia pink and so buttery soft.

[@jacdavis9]

Beautiful! What a pleasure to see your paintings!

[@RoxAnneDaly-nf2xg]

Rajiv, how exciting to watch you show your "treasures" from Florence🎉! Wish I'd had you as a "tour guide" when I visited Florence many years ago!! I did see many authentic Italian produced items but didn't buy, however, I have since "shopped" quality Italian-made items here in the states & have always been rewarded with the quality. I must put Italy as a return trip on my bucket list😊! Thank you, as always for your inspirational content!!