<p>Maple syrup is always a favorite, and especially appropriate if you come from a region that produces it. A children’s book about your area, if they have children, is a good idea, as is some other local specialty. I would refrain from taking mediocre chocolate like Sees, since they can get much better stuff there, but a local artisinal candy is another story. If you have an outstanding regional maker of specialty foods, such as American Spoon Foods in Michigan or Stonewall Kitchens in Maine, a jar of something unique that they make would be nice, and travel well in luggage (unlike chocolate!).</p>
<p>I’ve hosted exchange students, and frankly had no interest at all in picture albums of books of photos about their region.</p>