Gifting Travel

The holiday season is among us! No matter what feeling that conjures up from within, it’s inevitable... it’s time to buy gifts. For some people that’s easy. They’ve known the perfect gift for everyone on their list since September. But for most of us this is the most stressful part.

There’s the homemade gift route… but not all of us possess the spirit of Martha Stewart. I know my first attempt at making a cake for my husband did not turn out as planned. (Note to self: Strawberries juice when they come in contact with sugar. Like, say the powered sugar in my homemade icing. I’ll leave the visual up to you. Not pretty.) Another avenue is the “coupon book.” It’s sweet when your Kindergartener makes one at school, but sorry honey. A year of folding your own laundry does not count as a Christmas gift (not to mention that the promise will fade after just 2 weeks). And then there are the people that have everything. And your in-laws. Or your boss. What do you get for these people?!   

What’s the one thing that everyone needs, but doesn’t have enough of? VACATION! I know it can be hard to justify spending money on yourself sometimes. Blame it on the bad economy, student loans, or that new gadget you just “had” to have. But people don’t have enough money leftover after the necessities to take their deserved vacations anymore. Why not help out by giving the gift of travel?

One popular trend among engaged couples is a honeymoon registry. This is where they plan their ideal honeymoon and their guests donate to a fund that helps pay for their trip. This is one way to give travel. (Psst! We can do this at Resorts & Ports.) Another way is to give a gift card or gift certificate. Or if your budget is a little bigger you can purchase a weekend cruise. There are lots of options! And it’s a gift that keeps on giving. People like “experiences.” Have you noticed the overnight sensations like gastro pubs, interactive gaming systems, and shows (Blue Man Group, Cirque de du Soleil, etc)? People like to DO things. They need new fodder for their blogs, Facebook pages, and Twitter feeds. Give them something to talk about. I promise, this is something that won’t get returned. Give the gift of travel!

And Merry Christmas!