My personal favourite Christmas gift would be an airline ticket somewhere exotic. Likely that's a bit lofty for my loved ones, so here are some other very cool travel-themed gift ideas for under the tree.
Kindle wireless reading device
At just 10.2 ounces, the Kindle is lighter than a typical paperback and as thin as most magazines. Get books delivered wirelessly in less than 60 seconds, with no PC required. 3G wireless lets you download books right from your Kindle; no annual contracts, no monthly fees, and no hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots. The Kindle holds up to 1500 books.
- US$259 + possible import duties
Available at http://www.kindle.com/
Vuzix Wrap 310 Video Eyewear
Stylish eyewear, at home beside the pool or at 35,000 feet, the Wrap 310 sunglass-style widescreen eyewear allows you to watch your favorite movies and videos.
- US$249.95 + possible import duties
Available at http://www.vuzix.com/iwear/products_wrap310.html
Smaller Gifts and Stocking Stuffers
Joby Gorilla Pod
Gorilla Pod is a revolutionary line of tripods designed to affix cameras of any size to just about anything. It offers versions to fit point-and-shoots to large professional cameras supporting up to 11 pounds. Two dozen flexible leg joints bend & rotate for maximum tripod flexibility & functionality. Rubberized rings and foot grips ensure a steady shot on any surface or structure. Compact and lightweight design featured in bright 7 colours.
- $32.99
Available at http://www.bestbuy.ca/
Travelon Leather Money Belt
Adjusts to fit waist sizes from 32" to 40"; interior zippered pocket keeps currency; full-grain leather
- $42
Available at http://www.thetravelstop.com/or call 416-961-6088
TuGo Cup Holder
This pliable molded cup holder safely nestles your coffee cup between the telescoping handles of your wheeled luggage. Just thread it around the luggage handles, tighten, and slide in any small to medium take-out coffee cup.
- $15
Available at http://www.thetravelstop.com/ or call 416-961-6088
Bottle Pocket
Bottle Pocket cushions wine or spirits bottles from the bumps and bruises of travel. A see-through window makes for easy inspection by airport security, and two extra-strength zip-top seals and a Velcro fold-over flap prevent leaks should breakage occur.
- US$16.85 - comes in Blue - Two per pack
Available at http://www.magellans.com/ or call 1-800-962-4943
Starbucks Via Ready Brew Instant Coffee
100% Natural Roasted Instant & Microground Coffee. Comes in 2 flavours: Italian Roast and Colombia. Pair it with a 10 oz. tumbler that holds single serve coffee packets.
Available in Starbucks stores or http://www.starbucks.com/via
For those who tend to get lost...
Visual Cues
International translator. Communicate anywhere in the world by pointing to photos with this low tech translator! Divided into categories like "eating out" and "shelter".
- US$4-$16
Rand McNally Fab Map
Never needs folding! Made entirely of microfiber, the fabMAP is a new, convenient and easy way to carry a map around. You can twist it, crumple it, stuff it anywhere. It also cleans your glasses, phone and laptop. Includes major points of interest, including shops, restaurants, hotels, nightlife, museums, and more.
- US$6
Available at http://go.randmcnally.com/fabmap
Loren Christie appears regularly on Canada AM. If you have a travel question, email us at traveltips@ctv.ca.
