HOW TO FIND SOUVENIRS WITH SOUL

When you travel do you look for a little something to bring home to remind you of that couples or family trip? I used to bring home magnets and other trinkets that I bought because they were cheap, but I almost immediately forgot about them. There were a few key rings – like the one I bought at St. Paul’s Cathedral on my first trip to London that I’ve kept for over 20 years because it reminds me of that time – but most have ended up in the trash can! Unfortunately, I think that is where most souvenirs end up.

I think finding little things that have meaning are the best, and if you can afford it, jewelry, local crafts and artwork. It’s easy to breeze through the duty-free area on your way home and pick up chocolate, but finding that special something feels like a win! If you want gifts that have personal meaning and that reflect what was most meaningful about your trip, try some of these ideas: If the idea of the souvenir is that is connected to and will spark a pleasant memory, those objects often come just in our everyday interactions on a trip. Ticket stubs, programs, city maps — all these things can remind you of adventures, art, and beautiful days spent on your family trip…and cost nothing! Keeping in mind specific laws regarding transporting plant material across borders — there are natural objects that can mean much more than anything purchased. A flower petal or leaf pressed in a book, a beautiful unique pebble, a jar of sand or sea salt — these are simple things that can be incorporated into your home décor and will make you smile every time you see them. Educational Stuff. If you’re buying for yourself or for someone else, consider something that will offer an inside view of the culture, language, history, music, or food of where you’ve visited. I love giving food gifts. It’s easy to transport, represents the culture and doesn’t clutter up yours or someone else’s home! Vintage Stuff. Shop antique stores for quirky treasures. If you have a reader in your life, an old book might be perfect. Vintage postcards, cookbooks or photos can be a collector’s dream. Jewelry, scarves, cuff links, bags — they don’t need to be fancy or expensive – but will remind you of your travels every time you see them. Tech Stuff. With smart phones you have instant access to a world of creative sharing. Even if you don’t use your phone while you’re away, it makes a great camera — and when you return, turn those photos into souvenir books for yourself, family members, or friends is a free app that creates and customizes photo books from Instagram, Facebook, or your regular photo library for as little as $8. I also love www.shutterfly.com to create custom gifts. Whatever your taste or budget, there are so many choices of souvenirs to spark memories in the years to come. If you’re ready to start your own hunt for the perfect souvenir in the perfect travel destination, give me a call today and let’s get started on your dream trip! Complete the questionnaire and pick a time to talk by clicking HERE or just email info@classicfamilyjourneys.com