Originally Posted by JHattery
Started many a year ago when better half and I were on our honeymoon. We were given a Christmas ornament by our hotel hosts. Since then we/I have continued tradition of obtaining ornaments, or small items to be used as ornaments from wherever we/I travel. Numerous ornaments from the USA. Temple charms from Japan. Jade from China. Mexican handicrafts. Piranha from Brazil. Glass from Murano. Miniature Eiffel Tower of course, etc. Creates quite an interesting Tree.
Nice thing is, small things pack well, and you don't have to ponder where to keep/display at home. Problem is finding interesting objects that aren't too tacky. Get to reminisce about travels every year.
I do the same thing....seem to find good luck with key chains. In Amsterdam, a keychain with a tiny pair of red wooden shoes started it all. Take off the "key" part and turn it into a Christmas ornament. A chili pepper from Texas, a red phone booth from London, and of course, the Eiffel Tower. Interesting tree, and fun to walk down memory lane each year as we decorate.