September's here and in the Philippines, the first "Ber" month marks the start of this much-awaited holiday. Stores and television shows start playing Christmas songs while some families start putting up their Christmas trees.
As I'm one of those who get overly excited over this holiday season, I've started hunting for gifts to loved ones and for myself :P (thinking about Kris Kringles/exchange gifts now).
Here's a list of gift suggestions for your loved ones. I've excluded the items from an old post of mine, Gift Ideas for the Outdoor Hotties and if you want to get started with a hassle-free early Christmas shopping, visit Zalora's Christmas Rush Bazaar. It's arranged according to brands and category for easier browsing. ;)
1. Foldable Flip Flops/Shoes - for lady loved ones who are eternally running out of storage space in their bags or for those sisters who simply love packing it light. These foldable slippers and shoes are generally lightweight and durable. Lots of brands, both local (Suelas, Punchdrunk Pandas) and foreign (Flipsters), are already available in stores around the Philippines. I've also read great things about Tieks but I don't know if it's available locally yet.
Redgirlshop's Dr. Scholl's for Her Fast Flats, Php 1,200.00 (Photo from Zalora.com.ph) |
Where to Buy? R.O.X. carries Flipsters, Olympic Outlet, Zalora (Punchdrunk Panda, Spare Soles)
2. Lagu Beach Blanket - now this is a gift that even a non-beach person like me wanted! The world's first beach-friendly blanket, Lagu repels sand which helps preserve our precious shores. It's available in 5 vibrant colors, lightweight, dries quickly and is allergen-free, awesome for a whole day of lazing on your back. :P
With the cool breeze whirling around while snugged under a Lagu, I couldn't help dozing off on a hammock |
Where to Buy? Click here for a list of retailers
3. Scarf - scarves are great because they not only protect you from the cold, it also spruces up your outfit.
How Much? 100 Pesos above
Where to Buy? For cheap scarves go to Landmark Makati
4. Sleeping Accessories - let's not neglect the value of a good night's sleep. These accessories are great for those who are fond of overnight travels and riding sleeper trains. Inflatable pillows, ear plugs and eye masks are sleeping accessories that would be practical for frequent travelers.
How Much? Inflatable Pillows retail at 200 Pesos while eye masks and ear plugs can cost as low as 100 Pesos each.
Where to Buy? Olympic Outlet in Robinson's Forum, Handyman, Tickles sells cute eye masks. :)
5. Foldable Fan - traveling to humid locations will make one appreciate a handy foldable fan. It's lightweight, shaped like small pita bread and takes up so little space! I've used mine on hiking trips and walking tours. :P
How Much? 20-50 Pesos
Where to Buy? You can find it in bazaars, online site Practical Packer
6. Scratch Map, Philippines Edition - do you know someone who's planning to set foot on all 80 provinces of the Philippines? Support them by giving them this scratch map! :) It measures 42 x 59 cm with gold foil stickers to peel off. It also contains useful information on Philippine festivals, regions, provinces and capitals.
How Much? 1,350 Pesos
Where to Buy? Quirks Novelties & Curiosities (Do browse their website for other interesting travel-related accessories)
7. Dispatch, Indie Travel Issue - a handy compilation of travel and adventure stories from Filipino independent travelers & bloggers such as pinaytraveljunkie, Escape Islands, Wanderlass and more. It's produced by Dispatch Media, a website promoting travel & advocacy. It's also where I'm a current contributor. :P
Photo from Dispatch Media FB Page |
Where to Buy? R.O.X Branches : Bonifacio High Street, Ayala Cebu, Marquee Mall (Pampanga), Camp John Hay (Baguio), Centrio (CDO)
The Travel Club Branches : SM Megamall, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, TriNoma Mall, Abreeza (Davao), Ayala Cebu, Powerplant Mall, Newport Mall
Flight 001 BHS Central and Fully Booked Bonifacio High Street
8. Deuter Backpacks - durable and gorgeous looking bags. It's design minimizes the weight on your back which makes it great for wandering around. I've been using these since 2006. I have one for work, for camping trips and for day hikes. I'm a big fan!
River crossing in Bataan. That's me using a Deuter Spider backpack. Photo from Arisse |
Where to Buy? R.O.X., Toby's, Chris Sports
Got anything to add on this list? Just write me a comment or send me a Tweet via @jovialwanderer (I reply much faster there). :) Advance Merry Christmas everyone! :)