In a season of gift-giving, finding the perfect present is a challenge, especially if the recipient is a seasoned traveler. To wow the special people in your life this holiday season, find unexpected gifts that are connected to global destinations. For travelers, the greatest gift may just be a story they’ll never forget — and the stories behind these regional finds may just inspire a global adventure to collect some of their (or your) own.
Here are 10 gift recommendations for that special traveler in your life.
For the Chocolate Lover
Based in Montreal, Allo Simmone is a premium chocolatier that controls all stages of production from bean to bar, with a focus on sustainably sourced raw ingredients, making it the perfect gift of holiday indulgence. The brand’s star product is the signature Noisettes & Chocolat Jaguar spread. Awarded the silver medal at the 2019 International Chocolate Competition in Italy, it features the “jaguar” cocoa bean, which was originally cultivated in forest gardens in ancient Mexico. The nondairy spread is a harmonious blend of dark chocolate and hazelnut.
Share some tropical flavors of chocolate with a gift from Manoa Chocolates, an artisan chocolatier focusing on ethically sourced bean-to-bar chocolate. These chocolatiers on Oahu lean into sustainable business practices and respect for the land when creating their chocolates. Inspired by the flavors of the local farmers market, the Manoa Chocolate Flavors of Hawaiʻi Mini Box combines the finest chocolate with quintessential flavors of Hawaii. Discover chocolate flavored with passion fruit, mango, guava, banana and more.
For the Fashionista
Holiday mornings or hotel stays get a little more glamorous with the Avana collection from Hoi An Vietnam. Inspired by the mesmerizing bead-weaving techniques of the Cotu weavers in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, Belgian-born designers launched Avana and partnered with Cotu artisans to marry traditional techniques with conceptual designs. These unique, sustainably made pieces use recycled materials, including silk and glass beading.
The designers of Surarquía have a real mixed bag of inspiration: roots in the vibrant countries of Columbia and Venezuela, formal training in architecture and product design, and the Mediterranean sophistication of Barcelona, where the brand is based. These chic handmade handbags are made primarily from Spanish leather. The brand’s tote bags and VIMI Collection bags are perfectly neutral and ready to travel, with a heavy dose of original style that will complement any outfit. Try these charming bucket bags from Surarquía that channel the look of exquisitely wrapped gifts.
For the Travel Utilitarian
Ask any frequent traveler and they’ll tell you that a suitcase is never fully packed without a tote inside to capture the come-what-may on the road. Charleston, South Carolina’s, J. Stark creates the ideal travel totes, as well as backpacks, wallets, duffels and crossbody bags — perfect companions for your handy travel planner. J. Stark produces streamlined, functional goods that “never have a pocket where a pocket isn’t needed,” made by hand in the brand’s South Carolina factory. Check out the Woodbine Tote Bag, which is flexible, sturdy, has three interior pockets and is always available in a variety of colors.
Nothing says “let’s get going somewhere” like a Dopp kit and a personalized journal by Ox & Pine Leather Goods Co. Crafted in Texas, these items are made of fine leather and ready for any adventure. You might want to snag one for yourself and one for a travel companion so as to set your travel intentions clearly before you’re even on your way.
For the Fragrance Fancier
There’s something extra soothing about lighting a lavender candle, and the candles from EIRA are no exception. They’re made with handblown glass, vegan wax and natural essential oils — and they’re beautiful, to boot. The EIRA Lila candle combines calming lavender with lime, mandarin and vanilla for a uniquely enticing aroma.
There’s a whole range of eau de parfum with original signature scents from the award-winning Parisian-based Nicolaï Parfumeur. The family-owned business originated in 1989 and stands out from the conglomerate houses of France with its artful and independent spirit. The brainchild of accomplished perfumer Patricia de Nicolaï and her husband, Jean-Louis Michau, Nicolaï focuses on creative blends and sustainable practices. Try the Bois Bélize Intense, a scent in the woody citrus family that sweeps you away with notes of smoked tea, an assortment of woods, citrus bergamot, mate leaves, rose, cardamom and clove.
For the Traveler Seeking Some Sparkle
Eighth Generation is a Snoqualmie Tribe–owned brand based in Seattle that features work produced by Indigenous artists. With a tagline of “Inspired Natives, not “Native-inspired,” this shop centers around Indigenous artists and sells only products that are wholly designed by Indigenous peoples. Find works by artists like world-renowned tattoo artist Kira Murillo, of the Shoshone-Bannock tribe. Designed with mother-of-pearl inlay, her River of Flowers Earrings are inspired by her community’s beadwork and regalia.
For the traveler who appreciates craftsmanship and history, consider a timepiece from Oak and Oscar. This independent American maker is part of a select group that is reviving the art of fine watchmaking in the Midwest. Oak and Oscar watches feature leather straps sourced from the historic Horween Leather Company. The Olmsted, named after renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, is a standout choice for those who appreciate both design and journey.
This article was originally published by R FINDS by Renaissance Hotels, an editorially driven global digital marketplace where consumers can discover destination-inspired content and shop curated local goods from 175+ destinations worldwide, all available in one place. Discover more at R-FINDS.com.
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