In February 2005 I went to France with my sister. I made this little (5x7) travel journal to take along for the ride.
I realize that it's not for everyone, and it helps to go on vacation with someone who likes to record the trip too, but if you haven't kept a journal while traveling before - try it. The writing brings back memories not captured in pictures. Everytime I open this I smile thinking about the adventures we had. Negotiating the metro with our luggage to find the train station, trying to decipher the french road signs, the boat trip on the Seine at night in our clown outfits, doing jumping jacks to stay warm while waiting for the bus in Paris, wandering the streets of the city savoring each and every sight, sound, smell, and taste.
oh, thanks soooo much for sharing!!!! i love looking into other peoples journals and yours is very inspiring!!!!! wonderful and beautiful!
Posted by: julie macneil | 05/16/2011 at 08:56 AM
LOVE your journal. I recently found out this style of journal isn't for everyone when mine was called nothing but junk. Hmpff! Not stopping me though. I hope to go to Ireland next year and will have one ready to take!
Posted by: Tracy | 05/16/2011 at 10:19 AM
We're getting ready for a trip to Alaska, and I look forward to making a travel journal to extend the experience. Love your journal. :)
Posted by: Judy H. | 05/16/2011 at 10:36 AM
Your journal if fabulous! I have started making them before I go on trips, and try to record all the we see and do. It is a great reminder and often helps with the photos once I get home. I also have been taking along a little Pogo printer so I can print out a few photos along the way. Your trips sound so interesting and I can only imagine how much fun it must be to travel with you and your sister.
Posted by: Barbara | 05/16/2011 at 10:40 AM
There is nothing like having a journal. Thanks for sharing yours. It is just great. Love your blog.
Posted by: Nancy Lynn | 05/16/2011 at 10:41 AM
I love traveling vicariously with you and your sister....happy to discover that you have a blog!
Posted by: stephanie | 05/17/2011 at 09:11 PM
Oh! I do like this entry. Look at you 2 having a great time together.
What could be nicer than a French chateau in the background? I see you went to Chambord - just a short drive from our village. Isn't it a weird one?
'Sister lost ticket' - you know, that surprises me. I found her the perfectly clued-up traveller. Now we know!
Posted by: Chrissy | 05/19/2011 at 10:46 AM
Did you learn to speak French (as you say on your list)?
Beautiful journal, as is your Istanbul one on your sister's blog. Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Jannie Mc | 05/20/2011 at 11:08 AM
Jannie: I have until I go back to France to learn to speak french. Right now I am focusing all my attention on the language of our next destination!
Posted by: Carol | 05/21/2011 at 08:13 AM