Souvenir

A souvenir (from French, for memory) is an object that is treasured for the memories associated with it. This is analogous to the psychological exploitation of classical conditioning. For example, if a traveller buys a souvenir on a memorable vacation, he or she will most likely associate the souvenir with the vacation. Every time he or she looks at the souvenir, it reminds him or her of the vacation.

The term is used for items brought home from places visited. Such items are sometimes marked or engraved to indicate that their value is sentimental rather than practical (e.g., "A Souvenir from Clacton-on-Sea").

Travelers often buy souvenirs as gifts for those who did not make the trip. This is common in many cultures. In Cameroon, for example, the idea is that someone who can afford to travel can also afford to bring something back (cadeau) for those who cannot. French bread is a particularly popular cadeau.

In Japan, souvenirs are known as omiyage and tend to be candies or other edibles to be shared with co-workers or meibutsu (famous products associated with a particular region). Omiyage sales are big business at Japanese tourist sites. Many train stations carry such gifts so that travelers can buy last-minute omiyage before returning home.

Souvenirs can include household items such as mugs and bowls, ashtrays, egg timers, spoons and notepads, or clothing such as T-shirts or hats.