So as we get ready to embark on our next European adventure–it’s just a few hours away now!–we turn to some of our favorite travel trips to make the journey that much more special and memorable. We know you’ve already become a S&C packing master, thanks to the trusty packing list you’ve downloaded, so now that the basics are out of the way, we can get to some other good stuff.

Here are a few ideas to keep in mind for your next trip, whether you’re on a weekend city getaway or a couple of weeks on an island paradise (you lucky thing)…

• When shopping during travel, especially in a foreign country, look for the unique and special to take home with you. Yes, of course, we saw tons of Prada and Marni in Milan, but what we loved most is happening upon the Henry Beguelin store and bringing home some jewelry that we know no one else in New York (or CT for that matter!) will be wearing. Our matching bracelets will also become a special reminder of our sisters’ trip! [insert photo] Remember that certain brands may be less expensive in your destination than they are at home, but be sure to compare prices, perhaps before you leave for your trip.
• The same goes for gifts. When Tara travels abroad, she tries to find children’s books in the local language to bring home to the girls–last summer, they each received copies of The Little Prince in Italian! Look for beautiful stationery, an offbeat home accessory, or soaps scented with an herb only to be found in that particular destination–that’s what we’ll be taking home from Corsica!
• When dining out, be adventurous, and consider putting your healthy eating regime on hold for a couple of days. In advance of your trip, make one or two dining reservations at some “it” spots, and then save some time to wander into a random spot and sample the local delicacies. Share a few dishes so you can try everything. We tried no fewer than 3 types of burrata while in Milan–and we didn’t regret a single calorie!
• A final note on travel, any travel–send postcards. We mean it. No matter if you’re going to Tampa, Brussels, or the Maldives–a hand-written postcard will be the best gift that your friends, your family, and especially your kids will receive from you. Buy them as soon as you see them–don’t wait!–and ask your hotel for stamps or even to post them for you in their outgoing mail. Our girls have a growing collection, and we can’t wait to look back on them in 10 years’ time, and beyond!

And as for Corsica, here’s a bit of a sneak peek into our suitcases for the next week!

What We’ll Be Wearing

What We’ll Be Reading (we hope!)

What We’ll Be Bringing Back

Soaps and perfumes, perhaps a painting by a local artist, duty-free goodies, and probably a couple of extra kilos from the cheese!