Going on exchange with Global Summers Academy to earn my Grade 12 English credit completely changed the way I see travel. Before the program, I thought vacations were mostly about sightseeing and taking pictures. But during my time abroad, I realized that what you bring home can be just as meaningful as where you go. Souvenirs are more than just objects. They are reminders of who you were in the moment you bought them and how much you have grown. If you’re going on a GSA program, here are the best things to buy on a vacation, plus a few specific ideas from my favorite places like Greece, London and Costa Rica.
First, the best souvenirs are the ones that can connect directly to your experience. Instead of buying something generic at the airport, look for items that reflect the culture, traditions or the daily life of the place you are visiting. Locally made products are always the best choice. They tend to be more authentic and meaningful, and you are supporting local businesses at the same time! When you return home and see that item you bought in your room, it won’t only remind you of your summer abroad, but it will take your mind back to the specific market you walked through and the conversations you had there.
Personally, one of my favorite things to buy on vacation is decorative license plates with the name of the city on them, as well as some postcards. Everytime I visit a new place, I try to find a license plate that represents that city and add it to my collection. When I arrive back home, I hang them on my wall, which slowly turns my room into a visual map of all the places I have been, and the memories I have made. I also like buying postcards because they are inexpensive, easy to pack and usually feature beautiful photos or artworks from the destination. Instead of sending these postcards, I also hang them up as decoration. These are both easy ways of keeping the beautiful memories of your time abroad visible everyday, and it makes my room feel like a collage of all of my amazing travel opportunities.
Another great thing to buy while abroad is something practical that you might actually use. Clothing, tote bags, mugs, or journals can all become part of your everyday life. When I was completing my English credit abroad, I found that physical reminders of my surroundings helped me to write more vividly. Even after returning home, still wearing a shirt from the program or drinking from a mug you bought at a local cafe, can bring back memories instantly. The key is choosing something that fits into your natural routines rather than something that will remain untouched and taking up shelf space.
If you are visiting Greece, consider buying olive oil, handmade ceramics or jewelry inspired by ancient Greek designs. Greece is known for its high quality olive oil, and I remember when I came home with a small bottle for my parents, they were so grateful for something so authentic and practical. Little ceramics featuring the classic blue and white Greek patterns reflect the iconic architecture and landscapes. These types of souvenirs connect directly to the history and beauty of the country you are in.
In London, classic souvenirs often have a cultural twist. Items like teas from a local store, a Big Ben themed accessory or a little red double decker bus all make meaningful keepsakes. London has such a rich literary history, so buying a novel or a simple notebook from a local store feels very fitting, especially if you are earning your English credit there. Everytime you open that book, or go to take notes in that notebook, you’ll remember walking through the city streets hearing a mix of accents and cultures around you.
In Costa Rica, purchases I made were locally grown coffee, handmade bracelets and items featuring the phrase “Pura Vida”. Coffee is deeply connected to the country’s economy and culture, making it another practical and symbolic souvenir. Handmade jewelry from local markets reflects the creativity of artisans, while “Pura Vida” branded clothing or accessories represent the laid back, positive lifestyle Costa Rica is known for.
Overall, the best things to buy on your summer abroad aren’t the most expensive or trendy items. They are pieces that hold meaning to you. While you are on your Global Summers Academy program, choose souvenirs that reflect the culture, your own personal growth, and the memories you want to carry forward. Long after the summer ends, those thoughtful purchases will help you to relive the experiences again, and again.
Thank you to Student Ambassador Georgia W. for writing this blog post!
