Falkland Islands

Wool. The Falklands' 600,000 sheep outnumber its human population about 200:1. The islands' flag features a ram superimposed on the Union Jack, and "woolies" (unshorn sheep) and "clippies" (shorn ones) are fanciful parts of the islands' lexicon. So it should come as no surprise that woolen and felted goods and unique yarns are the islands' best buys. The local yarn—much of which is hand-spun and hand-dyed—makes for high-quality, exceptionally soft, and easy-to-care-for hand-knitted woolen goods, including sweaters of 100 percent Falklands wool and even designer felted hats. Unique yarns, many hand-dyed to reflect the muted, natural palette of the islands themselves, will delight knitters as well. Stanley, the islands' capital and only true city, makes for the best (and only) shopping.