* Click here to view the name(s) of the winner(s)*

I know there are many places I'd love to visit in my lifetime but whether I will get to visit all of them I really don't know but thanks to this wonderful initiative campaigned, in association with National Graphic, you can get to enjoy the traditional skills and talented craftsmanship of artists and artisans from 8 different regions in the world.
This is Novica!

The 'Novica Nation' bridges distances and geographic barriers to bring the regional works of local artists and artisans into your home.

Okay, so you have a fetish for handmade jewelry and want to take your collection to another level....well have you ever considered buying yourself unique, one of a kind pieces from around the world, sitting at your computer?

You can buy this beautiful gossamer pearl web necklace from Thailand

or to all you menfolk out there...Valentine's Day is fast approaching...how about this beautiful sterling silver heart necklace from exotic India?

Mommy, your little girl is now all grown up and is all set to leave for college. You want her to know that though you can't be with her always, she will be protected by God and His Angels will safeguard her steps (Psalm 91). Here's a precious little symbol to remind her of that, all the way from the Andes.


Novica has something for everyone including corporate gifts for the office big-wigs. The number of products showcased on the site are numerous and it took me over a week to finally narrow down on what I'd pick with my Novica gift certificate. Even though I was tempted to go all desi to support my craftsmen back home, I finally decided I'd pick something different, from a region I may not visit.....Bali and Java.

My package arrived in less than 2 weeks after placing my order, delicately wrapped to protect its fragile contents.
I particularly noted and appreciated the time taken to pack my Batubulan placemats


I also ordered a set of 4 traditional teacups and saucers (I know, I know....how could the tea lover in me resist!) and a pair of 'Frangipani Leaves' bowls.


My package arrived with a little note from the Novica team that completed the total package experience. (Click on the photograph to view a larger image of the note.)


Each product came with a little booklet introducing the origins of the product and a brief bio on the gifted artisan who'd created the same.


Needless to say, I'm thrilled with my treasures!

The Novica shopping experience is unique and above all, for a good cause...supporting and encouraging the work of local artisans and giving them a worthy recognition in the global market.

Truly...thanks to Novica and the National Geographic, the world literally does becomes your marketplace, just with a few clicks at your computer!


Buy it:

You can buy products from the Andes, Bali and Java, Brazil, Central America, India, Mexico, Thailand and West Africa. Just keep in mind that shipping rates will vary from region to region.

One reader will have the opportunity to win a 75 US$ gift certificate that may be used to buy any product(s) from the Novica site. (The certificate can be used towards the shipping charges as well)