Question by : American Pens & Pencils (probably made in China) to give to children we meet in our travels?
We are going on our first cruise. I have taught my daughter that when she traveled (To India, Costa Rica, and Equator) that she should always have something for children when she travels. Canada is not a poor country, but would it be a good idea to carry pens, pretty pencils or pencils with soccer balls, etc. for children we meet? Any suggestions?
BTW, A dear friend told me when I was 19 that when I travel, I am an ambassador of the US. For some people, I may be the only American that they meet. I realize that I am stopping at a popular stop for a cruise ship, however, this lesson still sticks with me.
Best answer:
Answer by Halo
In India they want money….not pens and pencils, also you will see that most places have a satellite dish (TV) on their roofs so don’t be surprised if your not the first American person they have met, believe me there have been many before you. As with most cruise ship stops the people will have tried and tested ways to part you from your money just don’t be gullible and remember even though you are on vacation don’t drop your guard with respect to safety.
May i suggest you take something with your countries flag on it.
In India don’t be saddened by the young age of the beggars apparently it’s part of an organised group of children, and never have your shoes cleaned that is a scam as well.
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Actually, India is the only place I have been in at least 15 years where children (ones who were attending school, not beggars) asked for pens, two years ago. In the eighties and early nineties pens were appreciated in Russia/USSR, but not much anywhere I’ve been since then. I have carried Sharpies and Post-It Notes (two of the few sundries made in USA) for friends-of-friends in China, but not so much for children.
But it sounds like you are asking about a cruise with ports of call in Canada. Children will not congregate on you there like they still do in a few regions.
If you want to carry something to “make a good impression” on anyone you do get to strike up a conversation with, I would suggest postcards from home (or an attractive place near your home, that is QUITE DIFFERENT from where you’re going) and possibly stickers or button-type pins with some geographic/US tie-in. On a cruise you might have local bus-drivers or guides for some day-trips; some bus drivers will decorate their buses with stickers or postcards…
As far as being an ambassador for our country, I think the most important thing we can do is to be polite and considerate everywhere we go. Ask permission to take photos. Ask the guides how to contribute to the people (where appropriate) — don’t assume that giving to beggars is a good idea, for instance, but ask and also see what they do themselves! In countries that speak other languages than English, I have found that learning a few words makes a good impression AND improves *my* enjoyment!
Unfortunately most of the children you meet may be beggars so if you give to one 10 more will come crowding and you may even get pickpocketed in those situations. Your intention is a noble one. If you are feeling charitable jus drop by an orphanage (there will be many) and donate some cash there there.