I hope everyone is having an enjoyable weekend. A discussion with a friend has prompted me to make an inquiry of our group. I have two questions to pose to you all.

1. What travel related gifts are you giving or hoping to receive during these holiday seasons?

Sara and I decided it was time to rid ourselves of all film paraphernalia and have gone digital, finally. We picked up a Canon Powershot S30. No more worries about security x-rays destroying our film. Of course, now we have a whole new array of photography issues to deal with. I also received a travel clock which sets itself by a radio signal from the Atomic Clock somewhere in Colorado. It's kind of cool but the self-setting device only works within a certain range of the Atomic Clock.

2. What recent travel related books have you read that you'd like to share?

I recently finished reading The Basque History of the World by Mark Kurlansky. Technically not a travel book but instead a great resource for learning about a particular area's culture. And, in that sense, a vital tool for any traveler headed to the Basque regions of Spain and France. I know you're out there. I've seen you asking about Bilbao.

So, come on Ziners tell us what knick-knacks you desire and what readings have enthralled you.

John in San Diego