Thursday, July 14, 2011

those gifts can break your back


Gifts, gifts, gifts! Many have suffered from carrying that perfect gift thousands of miles for weeks and have the spinal damage to prove it. We should not neglect our family and friends but try to find gifts which do not weigh us down. International postage can be high, but many countries have a special book rate which allows book shipment at a relatively cheap cost. Find a book then write a special note, poem, or draw in the book making it a distinct and unique gift. Then ship it directly to the person you would like to receive the gift. A postcard, once mailed, is a gift you do not have to trudge across numerous borders. Your back will thank me for this advice. Please, comment and share any ideas you might have!

Monday, July 4, 2011

oh the burden of gifts


Another great way to travel light is to bring a couple gifts which are slightly larger and greater in number than the gifts you intend to bring home. Your bag will feel heavy and full with a couple bottles of local wine/local history books/regional gifts in it. When these gifts are given to other travelers or locals, you will notice your pack quickly lightening with each new friendship. Replace these gifts with smaller and lighter gifts for yourself or a family member back home. This will lighten your bag and create more room at the same time. Please, feel free to comment as you wish and happy traveling!