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Make a souvenir list using ChatGPT

Souvenir shopping can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you are shopping for other people. The shops have so many options and many of the options are impractical and probably straight from China. It is a lot of work to sift through the heaps of goods to find something special enough to take up room in my luggage.

In preparation for my upcoming trip to France, I am using ChatGPT to help me plan. ChatGPT is a powerful AI language model developed by OpenAI. I asked for ChatGPT’s help creating my souvenir shopping list. In recent years I have created a souvenir list as part of my trip plan so I would know what to look for when visiting a new destination and hopefully bring home items that I will treasure for years to come. This strategy has helped me find items from local artisans, or local products, that are often hidden in the ocean of mass-produced souvenirs in touristy areas. ChatGPT has helped me put this list together much quicker this time. And, it has allowed me to explore items I might not have thought of on my own. In this post, I will show you how I used ChatGPT to create a shopping list!

Getting started with ChatGPT for souvenir shopping

To create a souvenir shopping list using ChatGPT, you will need to go to OpenAI’s official website to access the ChatGPT interface. There are different versions available, and you can choose the option that best fits your needs and budget. I currently use ChatGPT 4.0 which is the more advanced paid version. However, you may be able to get by with the free ChatGPT 3.5 version. I used the free version until I decided it was worth paying for. I find that ChatGPT 4.0 offers more specific and accurate responses that improve my travel planning. 

Since originally writing this post, ChatGPT rolled out ChatGPT 40. I still prefer ChatGPT 4.0 out of all the models.

Microsoft also offers Microsoft Copilot, both a free and paid subscription version, that you may want to try instead. There are also a number of Apps available with ChatGPT integrations. So you really have a lot of options, including free versions. 

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Use specific prompts to help ChatGPT understand your souvenir preferences

How you interact with AI tools, including ChatGPT, is going to determine the quality of information you get. Your prompt or question you ask ChatGPT is probably more important than which version you use. For ChatGPT to be specific, you need to be as specific as possible in your prompts when you ask it questions. When I get something unhelpful back, I always check my prompt and usually find that I was not specific enough. ChatGPT is amazing, but it doesn’t read minds, and sometimes it even makes stuff up! Here are some tips to consider when asking ChatGPT for help:

Be specific about your interests to get the best souvenir list

Tell ChatGPT when and where specifically you will visit. This allows ChatGPT to provide you with suggestions based on the specific region or location you will be visiting. By providing dates or a season, it can consider seasonal products and regional customs to make sure you know what to look for when you are there. You should also tell ChatGPT about your personal interests. I am more interested in local or seasonal food items, or artisan items unique to the region. I shared a little about my personal style preference, such as classic design, antiques, French history, and natural materials. If you don’t want touristy types of items, be sure to specify this in your prompt, or as a follow up question.

ChatGPT prompts you can use to define preferences and interests

I asked ChatGPT for the best prompts for getting a highly customized list and these were its recommendations below. You can use these to get started.

“Can you suggest unique souvenirs for a [hobby/interest]-enthusiast visiting [destination]?”

    • Tailor this to the recipient’s specific interests and your travel destination for personalized suggestions.

“What are some thoughtful souvenir ideas for someone who loves [theme/collection] and will be visiting [destination]?”

      • Helps in finding items that fit into existing collections or themes the recipient loves.
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Photo above: Recreate a vibe anywhere

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Start with a broad souvenir list from ChatGPT, then narrow it down to the best souvenir list

Consider asking ChatGPT to give you a broad list to start with, that you can narrow down from. I find it helps to start broad when asking for local and unique items. Then I can see what the range of items are and narrow it down. I asked ChatGPT for a broad list of souvenirs from my spring trip to the Alsace region in France. 

Example ChatGPT-generated souvenir shopping list for the Alsace region in France (including costs)

For a spring trip to the Alsace region of France, focusing on items that embody the local culture, craftsmanship, and seasonal offerings, here’s a broad list that includes both artisanal and practical souvenirs. This list captures the essence of Alsace, combining tradition with utility and aesthetic appeal:

1. Artisanal Foods and Beverages:

  • Alsatian Wines: Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Crémant d’Alsace. Consider visiting a local vineyard for a more personal selection. Prices can range from €10 to €30 for a good quality bottle of Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, or Crémant d’Alsace from a local vineyard.
  • Local Jams and Honey: Look for flavors unique to the region, such as mirabelle plum, quetsch (a type of plum), or honey from local flowers. Expect to pay around €5 to €10 for a jar of high-quality local jam or honey.
  • Foie Gras: A delicacy in the region, available in beautifully packaged jars. A small jar of foie gras can range from €20 to €50, depending on the quality and brand.
  • Spices and Condiments: Mustard from Alsace, flavored with local ingredients like Riesling, or traditional Alsatian spices. Artisanal mustard or local spices typically cost between €3 to €10.

2. Textiles and Fashion Accessories:

  • Handwoven Scarves: Scarves with traditional Alsatian motifs or modern designs by local artisans. Prices can vary widely, from €20 to €100, depending on the material and complexity of the design.
  • Table Linens: Hand-embroidered or printed with Alsatian designs, including tablecloths, napkins, and placemats. For hand-embroidered or specially printed items, prices can range from €15 to €50 for napkins and placemats to €50 to €150 for tablecloths.

3. Ceramics and Glassware:

  • Pottery: Look for pieces from Soufflenheim or Betschdorf, towns famous for their traditional Alsatian pottery, for both decorative and practical kitchenware. Souvenirs from Soufflenheim or Betschdorf might range from €15 for small decorative items to €50 or more for larger kitchenware pieces.
  • Hand-blown Glass: The region is known for its glass-blowing artisans. Small decorative items or glassware can be both beautiful and useful.  Small decorative items might start at €20, with more intricate pieces or sets of glassware going up to €100 or more.

4. Jewelry and Accessories:

  • Locally Made Jewelry: Artisan-crafted necklaces, bracelets, or earrings, featuring local motifs like storks, pretzels, or hearts. Depending on the materials and craftsmanship, prices can range from €10 to €100.
  • Wooden Watches or Accessories: Unique and practical, these can be found in local markets or artisan shops. Prices can vary significantly, but a wooden watch might cost between €50 to €150.

5. Art and Decor:

  • Art Prints: Reproductions of paintings by local artists, capturing Alsatian landscapes, architecture, or daily life. Reproductions might range from €10 to €50, depending on the size and quality of the print.
  • Hand-carved Wooden Decor: Look for items like cuckoo clocks, ornaments, or wall art that reflect the region’s woodworking tradition. Small ornaments might start around €20, with larger items like cuckoo clocks costing €100 to €300 or more.

6. Seasonal Items:

  • Easter Decorations: Given your travel dates include Easter, look for hand-painted Easter eggs or other seasonal decorations made by local artisans. Hand-painted Easter eggs and other decorations might range from €5 to €20 per item.
  • Spring-themed Items: Scarves or decorations with spring motifs, reflecting the season of your visit. Similar pricing to Easter decorations, depending on the item’s size and detail.

7. Books and Stationery:

  • Cookbooks: In French or English, featuring Alsatian cuisine, to try your hand at local recipes back home. Depending on the publication, expect to pay €20 to €40 for a good cookbook on Alsatian cuisine.
  • Handmade Notebooks: Covered in locally sourced materials or with designs inspired by the region. Prices can vary, but expect to pay €10 to €30 for a quality, artisan-made notebook.

These estimates should give you a ballpark figure to budget for souvenirs. Prices can vary based on where you shop; items bought directly from artisans at local markets may be less expensive than those purchased in more tourist-oriented shops or areas. Always consider the uniqueness and craftsmanship of each item, as these aspects can greatly influence their value and price.

Asking ChatGPT the follow-up questions to get the best souvenir list

In general, I never go with the first list I get from ChatGPT. Have a conversation with ChatGPT to curate the perfect list. The more you interact and ask follow-up questions, the more detailed of a list you will get. This is how I get so much more out of ChatGPT than just using someone else’s suggested souvenir list. For example, if the list you get includes something you aren’t interested in like a t-shirt with the city’s name on it, tell ChatGPT that you want more unique items that many tourists might overlook. You might even ask ChatGPT about French gifts locals might appreciate. If something on the list ChatGPT gives you is intriguing but you’re not really sure if it is for you, ask questions about the item or its price range. 

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Use ChatGPT to find and support local specialties and artisans when you travel

I asked ChatGPT for effective prompts to get a customized list, and these were its suggestions for helping me identify local specialties at my destination:

“What are local specialties or unique crafts in [destination] that make great souvenirs?”

  • Use this to discover items that are unique to your travel destination.

“I’m visiting [destination] during [season or festival]. What seasonal items or related souvenirs would you recommend?”

    • Ideal for finding items that capture the essence of a festival or season you’re traveling in.

ChatGPT can also provide tips on how to find and support local artisans with your souvenir shopping. Simply ask for tips or strategies, and ChatGPT will deliver. I find I get a broad list of ideas and those ideas I like the most, I can ask ChatGPT more about. 

ChatGPT's tips for finding and support local artisans

Supporting local artisans in the Alsace region can be a rewarding way to bring home unique souvenirs while contributing to the local economy and preserving traditional crafts. Here’s how you can find and support local artisans during your visit:

1. Visit Local Markets and Craft Fairs

  • Markets: Strasbourg, Colmar, and other towns in Alsace host regular markets where local artisans sell their crafts. Look for the “Marché Artisanal” (artisan market) days.
  • Craft Fairs and Festivals: Alsace is known for its festive markets, especially around Christmas, but you can find craft fairs and festivals throughout the year. These events are great for discovering artisanal products.

2. Explore Artisan Shops and Boutiques

  • Boutiques in Historic Town Centers: Places like Petite France in Strasbourg and the Old Town in Colmar have boutiques dedicated to local artisans. Walking through these areas, you’ll find shops selling handmade goods.
  • Specific Villages for Certain Crafts: Some villages are known for specific crafts. For example, Soufflenheim and Betschdorf are famous for pottery, while the Route des Vins d’Alsace (Wine Route) is dotted with vineyards offering locally produced wines.

3. Look for Artisan Collectives and Cooperatives

  • Cooperatives: These are shops or galleries run by groups of artisans, offering a wide range of crafts under one roof. They ensure fair prices for both the artisans and customers.
  • Artisan Collectives: Similar to cooperatives, these collectives promote the work of local artists and craftsmen. They can be a good source for unique finds and learning about the craft processes.

4. Attend Workshops and Demonstrations

  • Craft Workshops: Some artisans offer workshops or demonstrations, providing insights into their craft. This can be a hands-on way to appreciate and support their work.
  • Vineyard Tours: For wine enthusiasts, visiting vineyards and attending tastings is a direct way to support local winemakers. Many offer tours that explain the winemaking process.

5. Research Before You Go

  • Tourist Information Websites: Official tourism websites for Strasbourg, Colmar, and other regions in Alsace often list recommended artisan shops and upcoming craft fairs.
  • Travel Blogs and Guides: Look for blogs or travel guides that focus on local crafts in Alsace. They can offer personal recommendations and highlight lesser-known artisans.

6. Purchase Directly from Artisans When Possible

  • Buying directly from artisans ensures they receive the full financial benefit of their work. It also gives you the chance to learn about the craft and the story behind what you’re buying.

7. Ask Locals for Recommendations

  • Local Insights: Hotel staff, restaurant owners, and residents can provide personal recommendations for artisan shops and markets.

8. Respect Artisanal Work

  • Appreciate the Craftsmanship: Understand the time, skill, and tradition behind each piece. This appreciation reflects in the value you place on their work.

By following these tips, you not only find unique, locally made souvenirs but also contribute to sustaining the traditional crafts and cultural heritage of the Alsace region.

Example follow-up question for ChatGPT

Since ChatGPT suggested local markets and fairs, such as Christmas markets, I thought I would ask whether there were any special markets or craft fairs around Easter. We just happen to be visiting the week leading up to Easter. I was glad I asked as ChatGPT gave me some helpful information including where to find Easter markets called Marches de Paques, the name of a spring wine (Sylvaner), and the idea that there might be some Easter processions we can experience. 

See what it had to say below:

Easter in the Alsace region is a vibrant time, with many towns celebrating through markets, craft fairs, and festive events. These markets typically showcase local artisans, seasonal decorations, and regional specialties. While specific events can vary from year to year, here are some general types of markets and fairs you might find in the Alsace region around Easter:

1. Easter Markets (Marchés de Pâques)

  • Strasbourg Easter Market: Known for its beautiful setup in the Place Broglie and around the Cathedral, Strasbourg’s Easter market focuses on springtime and Easter decorations, artisan crafts, and local foods.
  • Colmar Easter Market: Colmar celebrates Easter with markets spread across several locations in the city center, offering a mix of traditional crafts, Easter decorations, and Alsatian gastronomy.

2. Craft Fairs and Artisan Workshops

  • Many towns in Alsace host craft fairs and open workshops leading up to Easter, where local artisans display their work, including pottery, textiles, woodwork, and glassware. These are excellent opportunities to purchase unique gifts and souvenirs directly from the creators.

3. Seasonal Food and Wine Tastings

  • The Alsace region is famous for its vineyards and culinary specialties. Around Easter, some wineries and local producers open their doors for special tastings and tours, showcasing seasonal products like Easter chocolates, spring wines (like the fresh Sylvaner), and regional specialties.

4. Cultural and Religious Events

  • Beyond markets and fairs, the Alsace region, with its deep-rooted traditions, often hosts concerts, exhibitions, and religious processions during the Easter season. These events can provide a deeper understanding of the region’s culture and history.

Use ChatGPT to find the best souvenir list for everyone

Travel is expensive, so it makes sense to have a souvenir budget to make sure you don’t go overboard in this area. ChatGPT can help you shop within your budget. For example, if you have a budget of $15 for each of your co-workers, you can ask ChatGPT to recommend a souvenir for each coworker within that price range. I used the example of a co-worker who likes to cook, and one that has previously lived in France and enjoys all things French. I asked ChatGPT for suggestions using the $15 budget idea. I can always up my budget and ask for new suggestions.

This is what ChatGPT suggested for my trip to France, visiting Paris and the Alsace region:

Given your specific travel destinations—Paris and the Alsace region—here are refined souvenir suggestions for your co-workers within the $15 budget, focusing on items that are characteristic of these areas and cater to their interests:

For the Co-worker Who Likes to Cook:

From Paris:

  • French Cooking Spices: Look for a blend of cooking spices or herbes de Provence in one of Paris’s many culinary shops. La Grande Épicerie de Paris or even local markets could have beautifully packaged spices that are both practical and evocative of French cuisine.

From Alsace:

  • Alsatian Mustard: While Dijon mustard is more famous, Alsace also produces excellent mustards, often flavored with local ingredients like Riesling or honey. This would be a unique culinary gift that reflects the region’s flavors.

For the Co-worker Who Appreciates French Culture:

From Paris:

  • Parisian Tea: Paris has several renowned tea shops like Mariage Frères or Kusmi Tea, where you can find beautifully packaged teas that reflect both the sophistication and the culinary heritage of Paris. A small tin of tea can be a delightful and affordable gift.

From Alsace:

  • Hand-painted Christmas Ornament: Even if it’s not Christmas time, Alsace is famous for its Christmas markets and decorations. A hand-painted ornament from one of the Alsacian villages you’re visiting can be a beautiful keepsake that brings back memories of France.

Additional Suggestions:

For Both Co-workers:

Alsace:

  • Local Jams or Honey: The Alsace region is known for its delicious local produce. Small jars of jam, made from local fruits like mirabelle plums or Alsatian honey, can be lovely gifts that reflect the agricultural richness of the area.

Paris:

  • French Soap (Savon de Marseille): While not specific to Paris or Alsace, French soaps are a classic gift that you can find in beautiful boutiques across Paris. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and universally appreciated for their quality and fragrance.

Shopping Tips:

  • Paris: Explore the Marais district for unique boutiques, or visit one of the city’s covered passages like Galerie Vivienne for charming shops offering a variety of French-made goods.
  • Alsace: Each village you’re visiting has its own markets and local artisan shops. Look for small, family-run establishments where you can find handcrafted and locally produced items.

These suggestions aim to capture the essence of both Paris and Alsace, offering your co-workers a taste of French culture and the regions’ specialties. Remember, the thoughtfulness and story behind the gift often hold as much value as the gift itself.

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Photo above: Local honey is a thoughful gift.

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Photo above: A red Alsatian heart ornament an be enjoyed for years to come.

Double-check your souvenir list for accuracy

As exciting and seemingly smart as ChatGPT is, it does have some limitations. ChatGPT is likely to become more and more accurate with each update, but for the foreseeable future, you need to double check things ChatGPT tells you. Particularly things like dates and hours places are open, addresses of locations, and other things that can change. Collaborate with ChatGPT on tasks, don’t just let it do the planning for you. Travel planning will become a breeze, but you still need to be a part of it.

Use ChatGPT to organize the best souvenir list

Once you have fine-tuned your souvenir list, ChatGPT can help you organize it. I personally plan to organize this list by pasting in my final itinerary and my shopping list, and then asking ChatGPT to plug in souvenir shopping based on the items I want to buy that are best found near locations I will be visiting. I am still working on my itinerary, so I cannot provide an example yet.

ChatGPT suggested using these prompts to help get started with organization:

  1. “How can I categorize my souvenir shopping list for a trip to [destination] by recipient, budget, and type?”

    • This prompt is about structuring your list in an organized manner.
  2. “What’s the best way to prioritize souvenirs on my shopping list for a diverse group of recipients?”

    • Helps in sorting and prioritizing items based on importance or recipient preference.

Here are some ways which you can organize your souvenir list by:

  1. Recipient: List who each souvenir is for, and then ask ChatGPT to organize your list by person so you can quickly see what you plan to buy for each person.
  2. Type: Categorize items so you can search for them together in stores or markets that sell that category. For example, you might have categories such as food and beverage, textiles, ceramics, and seasonal items. 
  3. Destination: If you are going to be visiting multiple cities, add the destination for each item you plan to buy. Then ask ChatGPT to organize your list by destination so you know what you are buying where. This also lets you see how well your list is covering the places on your trip.
  4. Budget allocation: You can assign a budget range for each category or recipient, and ask ChatGPT to add up the items in each group and see how it fits in your budget. If it doesn’t quite work, ask ChatGPT for tips on how to get the items while sticking to your budget.
  5. Priority level: You can assign a priority level like high, medium, and low to each item, based on how important each item is. This will help you narrow down your list to those items you want the most. This can be helpful if you find your don’t have room to bring everything back, or don’t have the budget. You will know where you can cut with the least impact. 
  6. Packing logistics: Think in advance about how you are going to get things home. Will you need to ship it home, can it fit into your carry-on, or will you carry the specific item onto the plane? Will you need any specific packing materials like blow up wine sleeves to pad the bottles? You can ask ChatGPT to group items by logistics so you know in advance what items you will ship, what you will pack, and what item you will have to carry with you.

Ask ChatGPT for transport tips to ensure your list is practical

Speaking of this last point, about ways to organize your list, you may want to ask ChatGPT for tips on how to bring something home. For example, I recently missed out on an opportunity to buy Moroccan lanterns at the Moroccan market in Granada, Spain, because I hadn’t planned in advance how I would bring it home. 

I decided to ask ChatGPT for the best way to transport wine back from to the USA from the Alsace region in France. Keep reading for its comprehensive discussion of custom regulations and packing ideas. 

ChatGPT's recommendations for transporting wine home

Transporting bottles of wine from the Alsace region back to the USA requires careful planning to ensure the bottles arrive safely and comply with customs regulations. Here’s the best approach to consider:

1. Understand Customs Regulations

  • US Customs: As of my last update, US Customs allows travelers to bring back 1 liter of alcohol (wine, beer, or liquor) duty-free per person over the age of 21. Quantities above this limit may be subject to duty and federal excise taxes, which are generally low for wine. However, the laws can change, so it’s wise to check the latest customs regulations before your trip.
  • State Regulations: Additionally, some US states have specific regulations regarding the importation of alcohol. Ensure you understand your state’s laws to avoid any complications.

2. Packing Wine for Air Travel

Note: If you purchase anything using a link listed below, Sara Joy Travel may receive a small commission that helps maintain this website. There is no extra cost to you, and it is much appreciated!

  • Wine Protector Sleeves: Invest in inflatable wine sleeves or bubble wrap protectors designed specifically for wine bottles. These protect the bottles from impact and temperature fluctuations.
  • Checked Luggage: Wine cannot be carried in hand luggage due to liquid restrictions in carry-ons. Pack it in your checked luggage, ensuring it’s well cushioned by clothing or surrounded by bubble wrap.
  • Wine Shipping Boxes: For transporting several bottles, consider purchasing a wine shipping box with pre-molded foam inserts. These boxes are designed to protect wine during air travel.
  • Wine Bottle Suitcase (my recommendation added here, not ChatGPT’s): Safely carry up to 12 bottles of wine in a suitcase made especially for your wine collection. 

3. Shipping Wine

  • Professional Shipping: If you’re purchasing wine directly from a vineyard or wine shop, inquire if they offer international shipping services. Many establishments are experienced in shipping wine globally and can handle the logistics, customs paperwork, and ensure the wine is shipped under the right conditions.
  • Courier Services: You can also use international courier services to ship wine. However, this option can be expensive, and you’ll need to ensure that all customs documentation is correctly filled out. Note that some couriers may have restrictions on shipping alcohol.

4. Insurance

  • Consider Insurance: Whether checking wine in your luggage or shipping it, consider purchasing insurance to protect against loss or damage.

5. Temperature Concerns

  • Mind the Temperature: Wine is sensitive to temperature changes. Try to minimize exposure to extreme temperatures by not leaving wine in a hot car or checked luggage on the tarmac for extended periods.

Tips for Successful Transport:

  • Early Check-In: If checking wine in your luggage, consider checking in early to minimize the time your bags are exposed to varying temperatures.
  • Notify the Airline: Some airlines have specific policies or advice for transporting wine. It’s a good idea to inform them that you’re carrying wine in your checked luggage.
  • Documentation: Keep receipts and any relevant documentation of your wine purchase handy, in case you need to declare the wine or go through customs inspections.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your Alsace wine back home safely and legally.

Use ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas for free souvenirs that make this your best souvenir list ever

Sometimes I bring home everyday items as souvenirs. Like the paper placemats at the Acropolis Museum in Athens, which I have framed and now consider a pretty cool piece of “art.” Or, a wine cork that says Alsace on it that I have cleverly displayed in my kitchen. So, I thought I would ask ChatGPT for some recommendations for my trip to see what ideas it comes up with. 

I asked ChatGPT:

“Can you suggest any free souvenirs I might be able to find in the Alsace region of France, such as small mementos?”

These were ChatGPT’s ideas:

Finding free souvenirs in the Alsace region, or any destination, requires a bit of creativity and an eye for beauty in the everyday and natural world. Here are some ideas for small mementos that can serve as meaningful, cost-free souvenirs from your trip:

1. Pressed Flowers or Leaves

  • The Alsace region is known for its beautiful flowers and lush vineyards. Collect fallen leaves or flowers (where permissible) and press them in a book as a natural keepsake.

2. Photographs

  • Create a photo challenge for yourself to capture specific themes each day (e.g., doors of Alsace, street cats, window displays). These can be printed later as a personalized souvenir album.

3. Rocks or Pebbles

  • Small stones from a memorable place, like the banks of the Ill River in Strasbourg or a vineyard in the countryside, can be kept as mementos. Just make sure collecting them doesn’t disturb the natural or historical site.

4. Wine Corks

  • If you visit a vineyard and partake in a tasting, ask to keep a cork from a wine bottle (especially if it’s a significant bottle shared during your visit).

5. Maps and Brochures

  • Collect maps, brochures, or even coasters from the places you visit, like museums, tourist information centers, or local cafes. These can be turned into art or a scrapbook.

6. Local Recipes

  • While not a physical item, asking for a local recipe from a meal you enjoyed can be a wonderful souvenir. Write it down, and it becomes a memento you can relive anytime you cook that dish at home.

7. Public Transit Tickets

  • Keep your tram or bus tickets from Strasbourg’s public transportation as bookmarks or additions to a travel journal.

8. Event Flyers or Posters

  • Sometimes you can find beautiful flyers or posters for local events, concerts, or exhibitions that are free to take. These can serve as colorful reminders of your experiences.

9. DIY Souvenir

  • Collect small, free items during your trip (like a special leaf, a unique rock, or a piece of fabric from a local market that was given as a sample) and create a DIY souvenir, such as a shadow box or a collage.

10. Cultural Ephemera

  • Look for cultural ephemera like church programs, free local magazines, or newspapers. Even if you don’t read the language, they can serve as interesting visual souvenirs.

Practical Tips:

  • Be Respectful: Always make sure that collecting your memento is allowed and does not harm the environment or violate local regulations.
  • Be Creative: Look for everyday items that capture the essence of your experience. Even items that might seem mundane at the moment can evoke powerful memories later.

These free souvenirs can be as meaningful as anything you might purchase, carrying memories and stories from your travels in Alsace.

ChatGPT for travel planning

I am still learning all the ways ChatGPT can help me with travel planning, and some of its limitations. This is the first trip I am planning where I am using AI to help with some of my lists. So far I find that ChatGPT helps me do things quicker and also serves as an excellent thought partner. It is like planning with someone who has been there before. I hope you find ChatGPT just as helpful as I have. 

Sara Joy, founder of Sara Joy Travel, brings over 40 years of European travel experience to her blog along with writing experience gained from over 700 articles across various websites. She has lived and studied in four countries. Her degrees in psychology and international studies provides insight into new places she visits, transforming her blog into a treasure trove for fellow travelers and the curious. Her master's degree in adult & organizational learning and leadership helps her educate others through her writings. Off the road, Sara works in higher education, and is wrapping up her doctorate in the same field. Whether exploring new destinations or expanding educational horizons, Sara is always on an adventure.

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