Write down your thoughts – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

As a student in Aix, I kept a paper journal (the Internet was not nearly as hot, and those French keyboards really threw me!). Later, while backpacking through South America, I e-mailed home lengthy, descriptive notes. My friend dubbed them “1940’s Dispatches From Far Away.” And, now, wherever I go, I blog.

Recently, while visiting my grandmother, she produced a folder. She had printed out every electronic communication I had ever sent her. I read through them, laughed, and then immediately went home to find my journal from Aix.

Re-reading your stream-of-consciousness thoughts from “there”? That’s the best souvenir. It’s almost as good as going back.

Create an adventure storybook as a souvenir – Traveling with kids tip

by Gadling Staff on

A favorite stuffed toy can be an excellent way to create an inexpensive and creative souvenir for your child.

Everywhere you go with your child, be sure to take a picture of your child and the toy doing something fun (making faces, pretending to run away, etc.). Make sure you get a good view of the sight in the picture as well.

Then, when you get home, combine these images into a storybook and use your imagination to create a storyline. Don’t forget to include a ‘blooper’ page for pictures that did not make the ‘final cut’.

Get a souvenir that will last forever – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

Although it isn’t for everyone, a favorite souvenir to bring back with you could be one that will last forever: a tattoo!

When I was 18 I visited a friend in Chicago and we went to get our first tattoos. After that, every time I travel to a new city, I am completely tempted to get inked.

Getting different tattoos was already on my to-do list and now, not only does the tattoo itself tell a story, there is always the story of the places I’ve been and the things I’ve done.

Buy a calendar – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

A calendar will remind you of a cherished vacation for an entire year. Whether it’s Rome or Maui, you can usually find a calendar in a gift shop or general store for the following year.

Pro tip: use the photos you took of your vacation to create your own calendar online and display your calendar proudly! Mark the days off until your next exciting adventure!

Buy seeds during your travels – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

If you love gardening, it’s fun to purchase seeds of flowering plants from distant lands to add uncommon beauty and interest to your landscape. If the plant blooms, you’ll get loads of compliments or questions, and that allows you to share the memories of your travels.

Try to purchase seeds that closely match your climate or gardening zone, but many times plants will flower in your area during a different season that closely matches their native land.

Pro tip: You can also grow them indoors or in your greenhouse. Harvest seeds from plants for the following year and to share with friends.

[Ed’s note: be sure to avoid introducing invasive species into your region!]