As a student in Aix, I kept a paper journal (the Internet was not nearly as hot, and those French keyboards really threw me!). Later, while backpacking through South America, I e-mailed home lengthy, descriptive notes. My friend dubbed them "1940's Dispatches From Far Away." And, now, wherever I go, I blog.

Recently, while visiting my grandmother, she produced a folder. She had printed out every electronic communication I had ever sent her. I read through them, laughed, and then immediately went home to find my journal from Aix.

Re-reading your stream-of-consciousness thoughts from "there"? That's the best souvenir. It's almost as good as going back.

Instead of carrying enough books to last the length of your trip, seek out a hostel, bed-and-breakfast, or local cafe's book swap. Sometimes they're listed among a facility's amenities in guidebooks. Other times, only asking -- or (better yet) exploring -- finds one!

Using book swaps keeps your luggage light, an imperative with new airline luggage weight restrictions. Also, perhaps, you'll get turned on to a new genre of literature (as I did in Bolivia).

The Kindle holds no candle to discovering a love for short stories! Furthermore, a paperback is much less vulnerable to the elements... and to "sticky fingers!"