Thailand

Travel seems second nature to me. As important as the comforts of home are, there are certain elements of world travel that are bound to be discomforting, no matter what I bring to acclimate myself to new surroundings and cultures. I'm an "all or nothing" kind of girl.

My choice is Thailand.
Thailand has its own alphabet, so reading and translating written texts will be my first challenge. So I will be bringing my Thai/English dictionary with me, as well as hopefully preparing myself with some essential phrases to save myself in sticky situations.
A camera and sketchbook (and writing/drawing utensils) are my only other necessities in order to document my journeys.
Through photos, drawings and writings, I will be able to record and get the best out of my trip. Surely enough will come of my long stay there, that I will be full of inspiration and ideas upon my return.

I've found through domestic and international travel that sometimes its best to discover new products and items available in other countries. Falling in love with a different brand or method of using everyday items are often the most wonderful memories I am left with after I return home. Sometimes I miss the things I got used to enjoying while out of town more than the location itself.

Gifts. During some of my travels I've been relying on the help of others and it has been really invaluable to leave a gift behind to thank those who have led me in the right direction. Sometimes it is great to give a gift of something that is unique to the United States or to the Midwest, where I come from. Maple syrup is a product that is quite unique to the US, and goes over well as a small gift abroad. I'm not going to flash my huge American flag as a colonial "THANK YOU!", but sometimes its nice to leave something behind.