5 WAYS TO GIVE THE GIFT OF AN EXPERIENCE THIS YEAR

If you make a transaction after clicking on one of our links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. There has been a recent trend in gift-giving that emphasizes events over material possessions.

In fact, according to Sitecore’s 2021 Holiday Trends Guide, the majority of people surveyed said “more stuff” was the last thing they required.

This year, instead of buying someone yet another piece of useless junk, try giving them a tale or experience they can tell their friends and family about. Experiences, particularly as a gift, are increasingly valued over material goods in a world where simplification and efficiency are priorities.

HOW TO GIFT AN EXPERIENCE

It seems like fantastic news for vacationers at first look. Travelers, who are always on the lookout for something new and thrilling, are sure to appreciate any present that allows them to do just that.

Naturally, difficulties emerge when the present giver makes good on this idea. When it comes to providing the gift of travel, how do people know what to get?

Is it something that they would appreciate receiving? How do they handle all the planning and preparation? When, where, and how much do we need to know? Giving the traveler on your list a unique present this year can be a genuine gamble in a world of non-refundables.

Tinggly, a global gift-solution business, has compiled a list of unforgettable experiences all over the world that would make wonderful Christmas presents, such as a dinner Christmas party in Sydney, Australia; a tour of holiday lights in Madrid, Spain; and a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of New York City.

UNIQUE HOLIDAY GIFT EXPERIENCES:

1. CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA GUIDED FOOD AND WINE WALKING TOUR

Excellent for tourists who wish to fully experience the culture of their destination.In addition to the delicious food and wine, the tour of Carmel’s historic architecture and street oddities that takes place in between tastings is a highlight of the experience.

You and your friend will be met on the corner of St. Carlos Street in the center of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and from there you will be led on a tour of the village’s major thoroughfares and side streets, where you will see the missions, galleries, and quaint cottages that give this seaside village its eclectic fare.

The random strolling is mitigated by the fact that you’ll be stopping every few blocks at one of six restaurants that are popular with the neighborhood’s natives. You can pair your vino with anything from Kobe short ribs on a bed of creamy polenta to soft tacos of chorizo to a plate of crickets. The reviews for this foodie excursion are consistently high.

2. “THE DARE” SKYWALK

Are you in the mood for a little more excitement? Here’s a rare opportunity to see London from a vantage point that will make you gasp.

Your present recipient will be taken to the glass observation deck at the very top of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, which is 150 feet above the playing field.

We provide all the gear you need to go climbing, including climbing shoes, harnesses, and jackets. However, the climber must supply their own titanium nerves. Not recommended for those with a dread of heights, but a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will leave an impression for years to come.

3. STATUE OF LIBERTY AND ELLIS ISLAND TOUR

Perfect for anyone on your list who has always wanted to see New York City. From the base of the Statue of Liberty, the recipients will have breathtaking vistas of Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Governor’s Island.

After making your way down 367 steps, you’ll be able to board a ferry to Ellis Island, where you can learn about the United States’ past and the sorrow, hope, and salvation that shaped it into what it is today. An engaging and thought-provoking tour, but bring shoes suitable for walking up several flights of steps.

4. DISCOVER THE SECRET OF PERFECT MACAROONS IN FRANCE

Macaroons are a traditional French delicacy, and you can learn how to prepare them in a small class taught by a professional chef. This creative cooking course will teach you a new talent that you’ll be dying to show off to your loved ones as soon as you get home. A trip to Paris to discover the macaroon’s storied past would make a delicious present.

5. EXTREME GLACIER HIKE IN ALASKA

If you’re looking for a present for an explorer, here’s yet another one-of-a-kind option. The winner will receive a guide and all the gear necessary to explore a 6,000-acre ice mass in Alaska.

You’d best hope a camera is also on their wish list this year so they can capture the breathtaking scenery of the Keystone Canyon, including the distant Chugach Mountains, blue crevasses, and waterfalls.

OTHER WAYS TO GIFT AN EXPERIENCE

Want to find more unique present ideas? More than five hundred and fifty incredible travel experiences from around the globe are showcased in the “Merry Christmas” collection.

You, the giver, buy the “Merry Christmas” box, and the lucky receiver gets to select the amusement that most piques their fancy. That way, the recipient gets the satisfaction of choosing an event they really want, and you get the satisfaction of knowing you didn’t waste money.

Don’t be hesitant to surprise someone this holiday season with a unique and life-changing present that you know they will always remember.