For many, the festive season truly begins with the heartwarming tradition of decorating the Christmas tree. While twinkling lights and garlands set the scene, it’s often the ornaments, each with its own story, that bring the tree to life. Among these cherished decorations, Travel Christmas Ornaments hold a special place, acting as tangible reminders of adventures taken and memories made in far-flung corners of the world. For me, the magic of Christmas unfolds as I carefully unpack my box of ornaments, each one a shiny token evoking tales of past travels. Among my collection, the travel ornaments stand out, each whispering stories of unique experiences and destinations explored.
It was during a memorable trip to Las Vegas early in our marriage, alongside my husband Jonathan’s sisters and their partners, that the seed of this tradition was sown. We were there to celebrate a wedding anniversary, even embracing the Vegas spirit by dressing up as Elvis and Priscilla!
Elvis and Priscilla themed travel memory
During that vibrant Vegas getaway, Jonathan’s youngest sister introduced me to a delightful Christmas tradition. She suggested we visit a souvenir shop and each select a Christmas ornament as a memento of our trip. This simple act sparked a tradition that has grown more meaningful with each passing year.
In the initial years of our marriage, travel was a luxury we could only dream of occasionally. Juggling demanding careers, navigating hefty medical expenses, and pursuing master’s degrees left little room for leisure, let alone travel. Life moved forward, marked by several house moves, eventually leading us to building what we thought was our dream home nestled in the woods. However, even in this beautiful house, the relentless pace of work continued, and the dream home began to feel more like a responsibility than a sanctuary. It was a dream, but not quite my dream.
Dream house not quite the right dream
My aspirations were evolving. I yearned for tranquility, for rest, and for more opportunities to immerse myself in nature and explore the world beyond our doorstep. After just a year, we made the decision to sell the house. With patience and faith, we found our current home – a charming fixer-upper. Instead of demolishing it, we chose to restore it, making it our own.
Five years on, we not only cherish our cozy, imperfect home, but the shift towards simpler living has paved the way for a more fulfilling life. With fewer possessions to maintain, we’ve gained something far more valuable: time for outdoor adventures. Our reduced cost of living has also created financial flexibility, allowing us to support causes we believe in and, most importantly, to pursue our passion for travel. Adding to our adventures are wonderful family gatherings, creating destination memories that enrich our lives.
This past summer, celebrating our 11th wedding anniversary, we reflected on how we’ve begun to truly embrace our desire to travel. Each year, I eagerly anticipate adding a new travel Christmas ornament to our tree, each representing a chapter in our travel story. I imagine future Christmases, surrounded by children, sharing tales of our adventures as we decorate the tree together, each ornament sparking a memory.
This is the wish I hold for you as well – a life simplified, filled with experiences rather than possessions, allowing you to be fully present in your own journey. Join me as I share some of my most treasured travel ornaments and the stories behind the incredible locations they represent, hoping to inspire your own collection of travel memories.
Torch Lake Michigan travel ornament
Torch Lake and Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan: Adventure and Serenity Ornament
Michigan holds a special place in our hearts, a state that effortlessly blends adventure with tranquility. Our travel Christmas ornament from Michigan perfectly captures this duality, reminding us of the clear turquoise waters of Torch Lake and the majestic dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. These destinations offered a perfect mix of outdoor activity and peaceful relaxation. You can delve deeper into our Michigan adventures by reading more about Torch Lake and Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Jekyll Island Georgia ornament with driftwood
Jekyll Island, Georgia: Southern Charm Ornament
Our Jekyll Island, Georgia travel ornament evokes the slow-paced charm of the South. This ornament, perhaps featuring a miniature lighthouse or a sea turtle, reminds us of exploring the historic town, visiting the fascinating sea turtle center, and wandering along the iconic driftwood beach. Jekyll Island truly is a southern gem, and this ornament encapsulates its unique appeal.
Mackinac Island Michigan travel ornament
Mackinac Island, Michigan: Car-Free Paradise Ornament
Our trip to Mackinac Island, Michigan, though yet to be fully chronicled on the blog, is vividly remembered through its travel Christmas ornament. This island, free from cars and brimming with bicycles and horse-drawn carriages, is a step back in time. The ornament serves as a placeholder for the stories to come, a promise to share the magic of this unique destination soon. For now, let it represent the car-free, carefree spirit of Mackinac Island, a place we instantly fell in love with.
Myrtle Beach South Carolina ornament with beach scene
Myrtle Beach, SC: Nostalgic Beach Days Ornament
Myrtle Beach, SC, holds a special kind of nostalgia, and our travel Christmas ornament from this location is steeped in childhood memories. My husband and I have both visited Myrtle Beach since we were children. While it can be bustling, its affordability and convenient drive from the Midwest make it a perennial favorite. Beyond the high-rise buildings, the beach remains beautiful and expansive, perfect for classic beachside fun. Our Myrtle Beach ornament is a reminder of simple joys and enduring traditions.
Captiva Island Florida seashell ornament
Captiva Island, Florida: Seashell Paradise Ornament
Captiva Island, Florida, visited long before I began blogging, remains etched in our memories, and our Captiva Island travel Christmas ornament is a tribute to its unique charm. This small island feels wonderfully secluded. Nestled in the Gulf of Mexico, Captiva boasts gentle waves and clear, warm waters. Its shores are renowned for the incredible variety of seashells that wash ashore, making it a haven for shell collectors. The island’s character is defined by its local, family-owned shops and restaurants. The Mucky Duck, the Bubble Room, and my personal favorite, The Mad Hatter, are all essential stops during any visit. This ornament encapsulates the laid-back, natural beauty of Captiva.
What are your favorite travel spots? And more importantly, do you collect travel Christmas ornaments? Share your stories and recommendations in the comments below! We are currently drawn to lake adventures and would love to hear your suggestions for our next destination.
Follow our adventures on Instagram @GreenGurneys and like our Green Gurneys Facebook page. Tag us in your own travel photos and show us your travel ornaments – we love connecting with fellow travelers and discovering new special places around the globe!
