Whether you find yourself traveling for business or for pleasure, the time spent away from your family and loved ones can prove difficult. Show them you care by sending a thoughtful postcard or a savory gift basket, or give them a video call to connect in real-time while you’re miles away. And don’t forget to pick up a meaningful souvenir.
Postcards — Old Fashioned and Digital
Although email, text messaging and mobile communication have taken over, old-fashioned snail mail can be a fun way to show your loved ones what you’ve been up to on your trip. Send your family and friends a unique postcard with a handwritten message from each of the notable destinations you’ve visited during your travels. Just be sure to carry a few stamps in your suitcase to cover the postage.
Or you can avoid the hassle of coming up with postage all together. Just send a digital postcard via your smartphone. Innovative apps like Postcardly, Postagram and Postino handle the printing or posting and delivery of your message. However, just like snail mail postcards, you’ll still need the addresses of the recipients for the digital versions. You can download Postcardly and Postino in the Apple Store and Postagram is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Gift Baskets — Sweet and Savory
Surprise your family with something sweet, like a gift basket. From baskets filled with gourmet chocolates and soft cookies, to healthier options including tasty fruits, meats and cheeses, FTD has a basket for everyone, for any occasion. Simply select which item you want to send, place an order online and sit back while the gift basket is delivered. And overnight or expedited delivery is available. Sending a gift basket is a great way to show that you’re thinking of your loved ones while you’re traveling.
Video Chat — FaceTime, Skype or Viber
Dial up your loved ones and spend some time talking face-to-face, despite the distance, with the help of video chat apps like Skype, Viber or Apple’s FaceTime. Be sure to plan ahead to accommodate any time zone differences and plan to make the call in an area where you have access to Internet for the best possible connection. Share stories of your travels and check in with your family to learn about what’s new in their lives. Before you hang up and say your goodbyes, schedule your next video call and mark the date on your calendar.
Souvenirs — From Near and Far
Collecting trinkets and relics from all of the places you’ve visited abroad can pile up quick. Instead of buying a souvenir T-shirt or bulky items at each of the destinations you visit, purchase small, lightweight and packable items that won’t weigh down your suitcase. Remember, fragile items may break or be damaged during travel, so opt for more durable souvenirs. If you must purchase something fragile, like blown glass, bottles of wine or jewelry, pack it in your carry on or in a safe place. Make sure that you follow all of the international and national travel restrictions, especially if you plan to transport food or liquid. Not knowing the rules and regulations could mean dumping your souvenirs at the security checkpoint.