The magic of perfume lies in its ability to transport you to a specific place or time, as the sense of smell is deeply connected to our memory. It can also embody the essence of different places and cultures, with a hint of cultural charm.

Much like love, perfume lingers, leaving a light, airy impression while carrying a powerful message. Each fragrance reflects the mood and emotion of the occasion. A simple detail, such as a repetitive scent or familiar surroundings, can evoke the cultural identity of a place, capturing its essence and inspiring fragrances that embody the spirit of that location.

Today at Koktail, we explore the cultural identity of each destination through the perfumes, capturing the essence of different countries. These fragrances offer an opportunity to learn more about the cultures you’ve longed to visit or those you’ve missed, all while experiencing their diverse heritage.

1/10 Kyoto: A Serene Day Sipping Matcha at a Traditional Teahouse

• LE LABO’s Thé Matcha 26

The tea ceremony in Japan is one of the country’s most significant traditions, passed down through generations. It centres around the preparation and consumption of matcha in a tranquil setting, offering participants the chance to connect with nature and find harmony and peace within themselves. Over time, this tradition has evolved and integrated into modern pop culture, with matcha-themed cafes becoming popular worldwide. The green tea is now a beloved ingredient in desserts, beverages and even perfumes. LE LABO’s Thé Matcha 26 captures the scent of the tea, blending it with notes of fig, cedarwood and bitter orange. This fragrance evokes the feeling of sitting in a traditional wooden house in Japan, preparing matcha in a peaceful Zen garden—perfect for anyone longing to experience that peaceful moment.

2/10 Shanghai: The Love Affair Between the Peony and Wish for Wealth and Prosperity

• Jo Malone’s Peony & Blush Suede

The peony holds a special place in the hearts of the Chinese people, symbolising wealth, prosperity and good fortune. Known as the king of flowers in Chinese culture, peonies were also cherished by Chinese emperors. The use of these flowers carried into Chinese art, poetry and drama. Jo Malone’s Peony & Blush Suede captures the timeless elegance and beauty of this revered bloom with a touch of softness from blush suede, evoking the serene atmosphere of stepping into the Botanical Garden in Shanghai. The perfume’s focus on floral aromas reflects the peony’s deep cultural significance in China, where it represents prosperity, grace and feminine beauty.

3/10 Marrakesh: A Stroll Through Neroli Fields and Moroccan Heritage

• Guerlain’s Neroli Plein Sud

In the heart of Marrakech, the air is infused with the delicate scent of neroli, extracted from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree. These sweet flowers are deeply entwined with Moroccan culture, both as an agricultural product and as one of the leading countries in producing neroli oil. The blossoms are hand-harvested during the spring season, a practice deeply rooted in tradition. Guerlain’s Neroli Plein Sud is a celebration of Morocco, offering a journey in a bottle. The fragrance captures the refreshing scent of the flower, with botanical undertones of citrus, making it the perfect fruity perfume for a sunny day. 

4/10 London: Fog and Mist That Can Brighten the Day

• Maison Martin Margiela’s When the Rain Stops

The weather influences everyone differently and London’s temperate climate is no exception. With cool breezes, frequent cloudy skies and occasional rain showers, London’s winters bring snow while its summers remain mild, shaping the behaviour and culture of its residents. While some believe the grey skies can affect mental well-being, there’s beauty to be found in embracing London’s atmosphere. Perfume brands have captured this charm, interpreting the essence of rain and cool air in creative ways. When the Rain Stops by Maison Martin Margiela is a perfect example—an aromatic aquatic fragrance with earthy green notes of moss, pine and patchouli. It evokes the cool, refreshing sensation of a rainy day, complete with the grounding tones of wet earth.

5/10 Amsterdam: From Flowers to Magnets and Postcards, Tulips Symbolise Renewal

• Byredo’s La Tulipe

In the Netherlands, the cultural significance of flowers may differ slightly from the Chinese appreciation for peonies, yet their connection remains meaningful. The Netherlands, renowned as the world’s leading producer of tulip plants, owes this status to its ideal growing conditions. The tulip has come to symbolise the renewal and vitality of spring as it is one of the first blooms to open its petals each season. This association has made the Netherlands a must-visit destination during spring, attracting travellers from around the globe, purchasing tulip-themed souvenirs. Byredo’s La Tulipe draws inspiration from the tulip and its floral scent to represent the freshness of dewy morning gardens and the spirit of springtime. The fragrance serves as both a tribute to this flower and nostalgia for the country’s cultural heritage.

6/10 Cairo: The Timeless Secret of Saffron and Rose

• Officielle Buly’s Oud de Médine

Cairo, as a historic centre of trade and culture, has long been connected with spices like saffron. These ingredients are frequently used in daily life, from enhancing savoury and sweet dishes to serving medicinal purposes and revitalising through herbal baths. This deep connection to spices reflects the vibrant and multifaceted culture of the region. Oud de Médine presents a heavenly combination of saffron, rose and agarwood. Rose is also mentioned in history as being used in the bathwater for Cleopatra. The perfume pays homage to Cairo’s heritage, evoking the richness and warmth of its storied markets and the timeless traditions that continue to inspire.

7/10 Quebec: Pines, Prairie Winds and the Essence of Boreal Serenity

• Dior’s Granville

Canada is known for its vast and diverse scenery from the coastline to the mountains and the natural beauty in its forests and expansive prairies are a hallmark of the country’s identity. Most of the landscape around Quebec features boreal forests consisting of pines, spruces and larches. They present a calm and tranquil atmosphere, reflecting a cool and woody essence. Dior’s Granville scent aligns with Quebec’s natural characteristic. With aromatic notes like pine tree, rosemary, thyme and woody undertones, the perfume evokes a sense of immersion in the heart of the boreal wilderness. 

8/10 Santorini: A Scented Escape into Olive Trees and Mediterranean Sun

• Erb’s Body Oil

The olive tree holds a significant place in the cultural and natural identity of Santorini, as well as the wider Mediterranean region. The tree thrives in Santorini’s dry volcanic soil and warm sunny climate, making it integral to the local cuisine and culture. The olive tree’s presence across the island’s rugged landscape, with its leaves shimmering in the sunlight, adds to the island’s timeless charm. Santorini’s natural beauty and cultural richness have inspired countless artistic creations, including fragrances that capture its essence. Erb’s Body Oil, in a dazzling spring scent, focuses on bringing this essence to life—featuring olive oil, sweet orange oil and grape seed oil to soothe the body, and evoking a light and refreshing feeling reminiscent of a day at the beach.

9/10 Bangkok: The City of Bright Spirits

• Panpuri’s Eternal Sunshine

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, has a rich heritage and culture, blending traditional charm with modern influences. Its dynamic urban landscape is shaped by the Chao Phraya River, which runs through the city. With its tropical climate, Bangkok experiences a mix of rainy days and cool breezes for part of the year, while the rest is bathed in sunshine. Much like its name, Panpuri’s Eternal Sunshine reflects Bangkok’s bright and sunny weather. The perfume consists of a citrus aroma of lime zest illustrating the rising sun while the spicy notes of Thai basil pay homage to the country’s cherished use of herbs. 

10/10 Chiang Mai: A Peaceful Mountain Escape with Breeze and Earthy Scents

• Aesop’s Virēre

Chiang Mai is a city of adventure activities and calm relaxation focusing on bringing out its natural local charms to tourists. From tea picking, cafe hopping, nature strolling and local workshop participation, the recreational pursuits are carried out in green surroundings. Aesop’s Virēre draws us to sunny afternoons sipping tea beneath a tree with scents like green tea, cedar, hay and fig, which grow well in the northern regions. The perfume complements the relaxed and tranquil vibe that reflects Chiang Mai itself.