From refrigerator magnets to postcards to snowglobes, I've collected many things during my travels. Of them all, what I value most will surprise you: the programs from cultural events.

Don't toss them so quickly! The miniature Big Ben I bought will never mean as much as the program for La Boheme at Covent Garden. The Sacher torte I enjoyed at Hotel Sacher was divine; my program, on the other hand, will forever remind me of the spectacular Vienna Boys Choir.

My programs are my most prized collection. They continue to mean more than any items purchased in souvenir shops.