A souvenir from the French, meaning "a remembrance or memory", is defined as a memento, keepsake, or token of remembrance, an object a person acquires for the memories the owner associates with it. A souvenir can be any object that can be collected or purchased and transported home by the traveler as a memento of a visit. The object itself may have intrinsic value, or be a symbol of experience. Without the owner's input, the symbolic meaning is lost and cannot be articulated.
So, all of this boils down to a way to remember a trip and if you’re gifting a souvenir then you are showing someone that they were on your mind during your trip and you'd like to share the experience with them. During all of the fun and hoopla of your vacation, the stresses of travel whether it be driving or navigating an airport or during a work trip, you’re showing someone that you’re thinking of them amidst everything else! So how exactly do you share that sentiment through a souvenir? Here's how!
Food and Accessories
If you’re going to a place with notable food and you have a way to bring back a sample of the local culinary flavor, then grab a snack that will make it though customs as a sweet souvenir. Swiss Chocolates, Georgia Peaches, Chicago Pizza, ok that last one is a bit of stretch but you know what I mean! Let's be honest, one of the perks of traveling is eating. Share this edible experience with your gift recipient to show them that you were thinking about how much they would also enjoy this treat!
Cooking accessories
If you have a chef in your life that loves to experiment in the kitchen, then a local cookbook is a great souvenir to bring them! Let them enjoy the challenge of creating local dishes and testing themselves on taste authenticity, with you as the judge of their culinary attempts, it could be a win-win! If you can get your hands on local spices, rubs or marinades to help amp up the flavor—even better. What about bringing back some cookware as well? A mortar and pestle from Mexico… why am I craving guacamole? Chopsticks from Japan… did someone say sushi? Tea cups from London… is it time for afternoon tea already? Any of these would make great souvenir gifts!
Home Décor
You can never go wrong with home décor as a souvenir gift. Anything that is made locally is bound to be a conversation starter for the eclectic collector in your life. Think about their current home as you shop for a blanket with local patterns and colors. Maybe their coffee table could use a book about the area. Or perhaps a great decorative object will add the perfect piece of interest to their décor! Be mindful to consider their taste and aesthetic to get something they will enjoy for years to come.
Collectibles
If your recipient already has a collection started then maybe you can add to it with a memento from your trip. Do they collect dolls, jewelry, key chains, coffee mugs? Are there everyday items that they love to have in all shapes and sizes? Or how about something not so “everyday”. Maybe they love to collect Christmas ornaments from all around the world. Gift them something to add their collection and they will really wish they traveling with you!
Enjoy gifting souvenirs that will really warm your recipient’s heart. Gift special items from a new location and avoid trinkets that bring up nostalgic feelings for only you. Everyone is happy that you rode a jet ski in Cabo but a jet ski key chain might not be as memorable to anyone else as is it to you--well, unless they collect jet ski key chains.
Very Happy Gifting
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VHM
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