I’m usually good with issues of etiquette. Maybe it has something to do with a strict handwritten thank you note ethic that was ingrained in me at an early age by my mother. (I was also taught to send said thank you note to its recipient within 24-hours, but that’s a neurosis I’ll save for another post.) But, when it comes to gifting abroad, especially in a volunteer capacity, I’m stumped as to the ins and outs of what is and isn’t appropriate. With The Global Citizen Project kicking off two weeks from today, I fully admit, I’m fretting about what to bring hosts and host families over the course of the 12 volunteer projects.
Usually, I bring postcards of Seattle (my current hometown), chocolate bars from Theo Chocolate (my neighborhood artisan chocolatier) – especially if children play into the home stay scenario, and photos of friends and families. At some point during my stay, I’ll also make a meal of standard American fare for my hosts. Last time I was in Peru, that consisted of grilling hamburgers, hot dogs, corn, sautéing onions and peppers and serving several bottles of hard apple cider I’d brought from Washington State. It was simple, delicious and a total hit, plus the concept of sautéing onions and peppers together blew my hosts’ minds. Who knew?
As I gear up to serve 12 community projects in 12 different countries and live this upcoming year on a shoestring budget, I’m wondering if anyone has suggestions for cheap, meaningful and easy to pack items to bring? I don’t believe in showing up empty handed to anyone’s house – ever – and although I’m already giving the gift of time and intention, would still like to bring small tokens of gratitude. Any ideas?
Photo courtesy of Jill Clardy via Flickr