Cara Siera

I’m a frequent traveler—it’s unusual if a month goes by without an overnight trip. Trial and error have taught me what things are essential and what overpacking looks like: I’m thinking of you, that Caribbean cruise I took for my tenth wedding anniversary. FYI, you do NOT need two large suitcases for a 7-day cruise. Next time, I’ll pack a carry-on, wash some things in the sink, hang them to dry on the convenient line in my cabin, and wear them again, content in knowing I won’t be dragging too much luggage through the airport and cruise terminal.

Have you ever dreamed of bringing a personal chef on vacation with you? Someone who could prepare elegant, flavorful meals for you to enjoy without ever leaving your beach house? I had that experience while vacationing with a family friend who is a retired personal chef. Not only did I enjoy an array of delicacies and pick up a lot of cooking tips. I also learned a great deal about slow travel and the importance of being willing to try new things.

Gift shops are my guilty pleasure. I’d love to say that the cultural and personal enrichment of new knowledge, experiences, relationships, and flavors was enough for me, that memories and photos were all I’d take home. But if there’s a gift shop, I’m making a beeline for it. That said, as a frequent traveler, I must take a mindful approach to souvenirs. I don't want to be the cause of waste or clutter. Below are some of my favorite souvenirs that don’t take up space or collect dust, as well as ones I (almost) always avoid.

The 1970s television series The Waltons bridged generations in my family. The story was set in my grandparents’ youth, and my parents were teenagers when it premiered. Reruns were the reason I decided at an early age to become a writer, like the character John Boy. The summer I turned sixteen, Dad and I watched The Waltons on TV Land together every morning. One day, as John Boy took his Model AA Ford pickup to Richmond and Charlottesville, Virginia, Dad asked, “I wonder if any of those places still exist?” After all, the fictional stories were based on real events in author Earl Hammner’s life.

One of my favorite parts of traveling is trying new foods and discovering unique places. Sometimes, the restaurant becomes the destination. Have I taken long detours just to dine somewhere unforgettable? Absolutely. And honestly, I think you should, too.