The Gift that Keeps on Living…
It’s that time of year again, Thanksgiving is still one week away yet the hectic holiday season seems to have been stalking us as it makes its way into the stores, on TV and even on the radio where holiday songs are played earlier and earlier each year. What was once a season that brought with it a happy feeling that we wished could last all year suddenly seems to bring on a rush of stress and dread that no matter how soon you start, you’ll never be ready in time.
Stop, take a nice calming breath, in through the nose, out through the mouth and answer this question …. What is the one thing that you (and just about everyone you know) could use more of? No, it isn’t money because all the money in the world can’t buy you the time to enjoy it. Yes, TIME, time is the one thing that we can’t buy more of BUT maybe, just maybe we can slow it down just a bit!
Close your eyes again, inhale… exhale and think back. What do you remember most fondly about holidays past? The gifts that you gave or gifts that you got? Probably not. But do you remember the time you spent with loved ones, special places you’ve been, the funny things that happened that made you laugh, the meals you shared? Memories that live on long after the moments are gone. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to give yourself and those you love more moments like that to remember? So why not change up the gift list this year and give the gift that keeps on living … time together, travel! What better way to show those you love that you love them so much that you want to give them the chance the make the most of our most precious commodity – time together!
Whether you’re the grandparents wanting to splurge on a multi-generational trip of a lifetime for the whole family, a couple in need a bit of time to reconnect, or a group of friends whose hectic lives haven’t allowed much more than texts or calls in between other commitments, getting away from it all can be the best gift you can give to yourself or to each other. With the whole world to choose from, there’s bound to be something for everyone – an all-inclusive getaway to the Caribbean or Mexico www.allinclusivedeals.com , a River Cruise in Europe or a multi-island visit to the magical Islands of Hawaii, Tahiti or Fiji www.preferredvacations.com, the possibilities are endless.
Planning can be half the fun. Get together for a planning lunch or dinner to decide on the details. Get together to watch a movie that was filmed in or listen to music from your dream destination for inspiration.
A travel themed holiday shopping list can get you off to a great start:
~ Passports – For most travel a passport that is valid for at least 6 months prior to the return travel date is required. A great idea is to give the gift of paying the fees for a new passport application fee (or a renewal). The current price for a new passport for Adults (16 & Older) is $110 plus a $35 execution fee, Renewal is $100. For children (under 18) a new passport is $80 plus a $35 execution fee. Plan a day to go get your photos taken and visit the local passport office together.
~ Luggage – Just as George Bailey in “It’s a Wonderful Life” wanted the perfect suitcase to take him to all the places he planned to see, a great piece of luggage can be the perfect gift. Whether it’s a suitcase, a duffel bag, or a backpack fill it with some great brochures or travel books to whet their appetite.
~ Packing Cubes – Sold in various sizes and shapes and sets these can make packing and unpacking organized and efficient.
~ Neck Pillow, Travel Blanket, Headset – not all airlines provide these in all classes and adding a little extra comfort to a journey can’t hurt!
~ TSA Compliant Toiletries – carry-on sizes 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less of all the necessities make great stocking-stuffers!
And so much more! Share your best travel gift idea with us at info@preferredvacations.com
Enjoy the journey! Happy Holidays!