Whenever I travel to far-flung places I like to bring back a souvenir Christmas tree ornament to remind me of my trip. Of course, that’s sometimes easier said than done. Good luck finding a Christmas decoration in July… in the tropics!
What I suggest is to buy an inexpensive keychain as a keepsake. (I guarantee that every tourist shop in the world sells them.) Then, when you get home, remove the key ring part and tie on a piece of ribbon. And there you go—a Christmas tree ornament that will bring back happy memories of your vacation!
Here are a couple examples I made:


Michael Figueiredo is a freelance travel writer based in Los Angeles, California. When he’s not gallivanting around the world, he’s enjoying the laid-back lifestyle and perfect weather of Southern California. So far he’s visited thirty-six countries and territories on five continents. His goal is to see at least one new country every year! Michael Figueiredo is a newly-minted travel writer based in Los Angeles, California. When he's not gallivanting around the world, he's enjoying the laid-back lifestyle and perfect weather of Southern California. So far he’s visited 36 countries and territories and hopes to see at least one new place every year. He recently traveled to Italy, Croatia, and Turkey with day trips to Montenegro and San Marino. This year he hopes to travel to Cuba!
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Twitter: @aviewtoathrill
Michael,
I like the way that you think! I’m a big fan of buying souvenirs/mementos of your trip and this certainly takes it to another level. I think my favorite souvenir so far is a postcard of the day’s activities at the Vatican that has the Vatican postmark (you know since they are a country in their own right, they have their own post office). It’s definitely a keeper!
Now that is a fantastic idea. I will definitely remember this the next time we’re on the road.
Twitter: @TravelingWithS
Good tip. Christmas tree ornaments are one of my favorite souvenirs, too.
Twitter: @vagabond3live
super cute idea!!
Twitter: @ayngelina
I never buy souvenirs for myself but I really love this idea.
Twitter: @jimshu2000
Christmas tree ornaments are a great souvinir.
Once bought our children really nice Christmas ornaments in Beijing, and gave them each one on the understanding they were to be hung together each Christmas…..hopefully this year.
the key ring is very clever
Twitter: @lilygogo
Brillaint idea. Good use for a key chain and definitely Christmas tree ornaments nobody else has.
Twitter: @robinjgraham
That. Is.A. Great. Idea!
That is a really clever idea and they look great
Twitter: @ladyexpat
What a fantastic idea!
Twitter: @ExpatGermany
I collect Christmas ornaments from different countries when traveling (which are often overpriced and can be hard to find depending where you are), but I’ve never thought of using key-chains as ornaments. Fabulous idea!
Twitter: @ladyexpat
Hi Michael,
Thanks for adding this beautiful shot to TPThursday!
I love this idea, even though I never put up a Christmas tree. Maybe this will motivate me to get one!
Thanks for the nice comments everyone!
That is a terrific idea!
I’m going to have to join the concensus on this: brilliant idea. I will definitely try this on my next trip.
Keychains made into ornaments….GREAT idea ! Thanks !!!
i am so doing this for christmas! nice touch!

monette | fliptravels recently posted..souvenir cliché