Holiday Lights on Philadelphia's Jewelers Row (photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia)
Gifting is hard work, but I'm here to help you give meaningful items to ensure that the recipient delights in your thoughtful present.
The idea: Buy gifts that are iconic to or come from a place you've visited with your partner, friend, or family member. Some examples to get your wheels turning:
Relive that quintessential New Orleans breakfast by ordering Café Du Monde coffee and beignet mix. The tempting smells will transport your loved one right to Decatur Street. It says, "Remember those Hurricanes and flying beads? Me neither. Let's not talk about that anymore."
Been to Philadelphia lately? I'm sure you had your fill of the Liberty Bell and brotherly love. Give these Philly pint glasses to your travel companion, and over a drink, reminisce about yelling "Yo Adrian!" much to the dismay of the leering locals. Bonus: They're from the lesbian-owned We Heart Philly line.
Share the spirit of the season with Chicago-born Halsted Vodka. It's perfect for your favorite airport-bar drinking buddy. Plus, the mission is on point: 15% of profits go towards LGBTQ causes. A refreshing gift for your loved one and the whole community.
Art thrives in Santa Fe, where ancient and edgy blend to create a colorful community. Browse Santa Fe's Ventana Fine Art and choose a print, sculpture, poster, or book from the 20-year-old gallery, located on the city's famed and art-heavy Canyon Road.
Want to evoke high-quality craft lifestyle? Look to Portland's Tanner Goods for beautiful, made-to-order leather items. No, not that kind of leather. Think seasonal gifts, such as deerskin leather gloves, and travel must-haves (or, want-to-haves) like luggage tags, camera straps and hiking boot bags.
My favorite travel-related gift: more travel! On December 25, my partner and I give each other nothing, which is really the promise of something great to come. Instead of dropping money on each other now, we plan a winter escape for two. I need a tan, not another sweater.
For all your travel-planning needs, use fagabond.com.