Buying gifts for loved ones? It can be a challenge! What to get for that person who’s done and seen it all? Luckily I’ve compiled a list of must-haves, so you can check off everyone on your list.
Our Top Picks for Gift Guide 2017
Books
Books are one of my favourite gifts to get and to give. A book can quench the thirst of a traveller’s soul when they are stuck at work or waiting for their next adventure. If you can’t get away in real life, there is nothing better than escaping through the pages of a book. Here are some suggestions: Here are some suggestions:
This book will take the reader on a journey through the earth’s most beautiful and fascinating places. Natural Wonders of the World ($65 CAD) is a brilliant photographic journey. In it, you will visit places like Yosemite, Antarctica, the Rocky Mountains and everywhere in between. Published by DK Books.
Journey An Illustrated History of Travel ($65CAD) is an account of human journeys with a foreword by Simon Reeve, from Ancient Persian couriers to the ascent of Everest, the invention of Concorde, and the voyage into space itself. Published by DK Books.
KITCHEN KICKSTARTS
These kitchen gadgets are the perfect fit for the culinary master (or those who try to be). Maybe if you are lucky, they will let you be a taste-tester.
The Delonghi Multi Oven ($303 CAD) is the perfect addition to any kitchen. This multipurpose countertop oven has six settings like baking, cookies, and pizza. It is filled with features like an electronic thermostat, double glass door to combat heat loss, digital timer, and an internal light. It’s also easy to clean. The sleek design can fit into any kitchen’s decor.
Sunday brunch will never be the same after you give your friends or family the Delonghi All-Day Grill with Waffle Plates ($379 CAD). This multipurpose grill is not just for breakfast, the flat non-stick plates let you grill any meal with ease. A perfect gift for someone who wants to make some serious food with limited counter space. Interchangeable plates will allow you to go from waffles for breakfast, to paninis for lunch and then grilled chicken for dinner. The best part of this grill is the plates are removable and dishwasher safe making for easy clean-up!
Every cook needs a tool that is multipurpose, easy to use and doesn’t take up a lot of space in the kitchen. The Braun Multiquick Hand Blender 9 ($189.99 CAD) checks off all those boxes. With multiple attachments like a Wisk, chopper, blender and many more, this tool takes up little space but makes a big impact in the kitchen. The sleek design and multifunction makes this an excellent choice for the cook on your list.
Are you looking for a unique hostess gift? The Ironwood Cutting Board ($19.99 CAD) is a great addition to any kitchen. Made from acacia wood, this cutting board is not only functional but beautiful as well. Acacia wood cutting boards are prized because they are durable, sustainable and affordable.
These kitchen gadgets will be hits for anyone who loves to cook.
Travel
Make sure the traveller on your list is stocked and ready for their next adventure.
This rugged, compact flashlight is perfect for camping and hiking. With a pocket clip, you don’t need to worry about losing it in your backpack or it falling out of your pockets. The Ledlenser MT10 Flashlight ($108 CAD) has a rechargeable battery and a USB charger so you can charge on the go. One of my favourite features as a woman who travels solo is the strobe light for self-defence. This flashlight is easy to use and covers a distance from 20M to 180M so you never have to be in the dark.
In today’s technology-driven environment travelling with portable gadgets is a must. These products from Anker make the perfect stocking stuffers for the gadget geeks in the family.
Anker’s PowerLine+ Lightning Cable (3ft) Durable and Fast Charging Cable [Double Braided Nylon] ($19.99 CAD) is apple certified and available in 6ft and 10ft lengths as well. Plus it comes with a travel pouch. With devices requiring constant charging while on the road, PowerCore II 20000, High Capacity Portable Charger with Dual USB Ports (up to 18W Output)( $59.99) is the perfect companion to keep everything juiced up. Compatible with Samsung and Apple products.
Two USB ports or six, Anker has you covered with these stellar products. Choose from the upgraded Anker 24W Dual USB Wall Charger PowerPort 2 ($17.99 CAD) (with 2 Ports and Foldable Plug) for iPhone 7 / 6s / Plus, iPad etc OR Anker 60W 6-Port Family-Sized Desktop USB Charger ($39.99 CAD) with PowerIQ Technology.
For those on your gift list that travel to sunny destinations, get them the Sunday Afternoons Excursion Hat ($55 CAD). It has all the charm of a traditional straw hat made with an innovative new fabric that stands up to tropical showers and is flexible for packing. This hat has a UPF 50+ sun rating and has moisture wicking sweatband inside that will keep you cool. Don’t worry about finding the right size, plus it’s adjustable!
Any traveller knows that you can find yourself in precarious situations from time to time. You may need to fix something on the go. After all, when off-roading through the middle of the jungle, how can you call emergency roadside service? The Leatherman Tread LT ($215.95 CAD) is the perfect gift for those who like to travel off the beaten path or know their way around a toolbox. The Leatherman Tread is worn on your wrist and is both stylish and functional. In a few twists, it gives you 29 stainless steel tools in one. You have tools like an Allen wrench, box wrench and screwdrivers available to you at a moment’s notice.
One of the biggest challenge when travelling with kids (or yourself) is having healthy food on the go. The Hydro Flask Gourmet on the Go Food Flasks ($35.95CAD 12 oz / $41.95CAD 18 oz) is an excellent gift for those who go on road trips or spend a long time in the car. They also pop easily into a lunchbox. Two convenient sizes give you the option to take everything from fresh cut fruit to hot soup on the go. These little gems are sweat-free, backpack friendly and the professional grade stainless steel will keep flavors fresh. The Hydro flasks are BPA and Phthalate Free making them safe for all ages.
A great gift idea for the adventurer, the Keen Newport H2 shoe ($120 CAD) is a versatile water shoe perfect for the outdoor lover on your list. With the feel and ventilation of a sandal but the protection of a shoe, you can enjoy hiking, wading and walk without worrying about your feet.
This functional, stylish Tote from Annie Thompson ($325 CAD) is the perfect gift for the traveller in your life. Nylon makes this tote waterproof and lightweight so it’s easy to pack and isn’t too cumbersome on long days of adventuring. Lots of pockets ensure you have room to fit all your favourite things!
Who says you have to wait until you get home to print your travel photos? With this small, lightweight HP Spocket printer ($169.98 CAD), the traveller on your list can take the memories from their phone and print them out instantly to enjoy. The printer is so small it can be stowed away in a purse or backpack.
Cultural Gifts
Instead of a physical gift, there are those on your list who may like a cultural membership. The gift that keeps on giving all year round is a membership to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM Social – $161/ 1 Year or $291/ 2 Year). With a social membership, they can bring a guest and get all of the benefits reserved for members only, like previews of select exhibits and gallery openings, access to ticketed exhibitions, subscription to ROM magazine and many more!
Another great membership idea is to gift a membership to the Art Gallery of Ontario ($145 CAD). With the Member+Guest option, they can bring someone along to enjoy the fantastic art exhibits that you will find there. They can also enjoy discounts at the eateries and shops within the museum.
Foodie Gifts
You can never go wrong with gifting a good bottle of wine. Wine makes the perfect hostess gift for a friend or family member who will be entertaining around the holidays. Do you get overwhelmed by the choices when you head to the LCBO? Here are some of our favourites and some suggestions for what to pair the wine with to make it simple for you.
Jacobs Creek Double Barrel Shiraz 2015 ($19.95 CAD) This Shiraz from Jacobs Creek is aged in whiskey bottles giving it a unique flavour. The smooth taste makes this a popular wine and will appeal to a variety of connoisseurs. The flavour of this wine softens with decanting. This wine pairs well with red meats and barbeque.
Campo Viejo Rioja Tempranillo ($14.95 CAD) Those who are interested in the environment will love that the Campo Viejo Rioja Tempranillo is the first certified carbon-neutral wine in Spain. A great wine to serve with a holiday meal as it’s light enough to pair well with turkey and other meats you would find at your feast.
Stoneleigh Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (CAD 14.95) If you have a cheese-lover in your life or are heading to a less formal party, pick up a bottle of the Stoneleigh Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc . This Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with creamy cheeses that will cut the acidity of the wine. This wine makes a great sipper and appetizer wine and a great addition to happy hour or a cocktail party.
Another great choice for a hostess gift is the Jacob’s Creek Moscato ($10.95 CAD). Light and effervescent, the sweet Moscato makes the perfect ending to any meal and pairs well with dessert and cheese. If you prefer an individual size, Jacob’s Creek also offers Moscato in a can ($4.95 CAD)!
Who doesn’t love a good cup of Tea, especially on a cold winter day! David’s Top 12 Tea (CAD 26) collection is a sure-fire crowd-pleaser packed in a beautiful teal box. The tea collection includes Forever Nuts, Cream of Earl Grey, Mother’s Little Helper and Cold 911. Plus Strawberry Rhubarb Parfait, Chocolate Macaroon, The Skinny, Detox, Birthday Cake, Super Ginger, Green Passionfruit and Japanese Sencha.
Surprise the chocoholic on your list with a Swiss-style gourmet chocolate truffle box. Imported directly from Switzerland, these premium chocolates from Swissmaster Chocolatier are the perfect gift for special friends and family. Individual Swiss Truffles start at CAD 1.89 and a 6-piece Gift box retails for CAD 14.99. You can customize a box to suit individual tastes. Shipping across Canada is available in the fall and winter season.
Splurge-Worthy
Unique Gifts by Studio1098 I love this jewellery from this small, independently owned boutique. Every piece is hand-crafted and influenced by different eras. Their vintage pieces are one of a kind and would make the perfect gift for those on your list who appreciate fine craftsmanship. Why not grab them one of these unique Handmade Sterling Silver Diamond Graphic Collection Charms ($148 CAD).
NOTE: Gift Guide 2017 prices quoted are in Canadian Dollars, taxes not included. Most of these products are available in the United States and Canada, with a few exceptions.
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