With Christmas just round the corner, it’s time to rise up to the challenge of finding the perfect gifts. To guide you along the process, here are some important things to remember when picking out presents for your loved ones. 

#1 

Doing it the gift card way? Make sure it actually gets redeemed by purchasing the gift card from a store which has items the recipient actually shops at. For example, it’ll make more sense to give your makeup-loving pal a gift card from Sephora instead of iTunes – otherwise, it’ll just be like donating money to the store. Alternatively, you could also purchase gift cards to places where the recipient would like to splurge at, but doesn’t. This could apply to restaurant vouchers, spa vouchers and more. 

#2 

Whether it’s giving handmade presents from non-profit organisations or products from social enterprises that give back to charity, make your Christmas even better by gifting socially conscious presents. From shopping eco-conscious lifestyle products at Shop For Social or buying handmade candles made by single mothers from Cha Cha Cottage, you’ll be able to lend support to meaningful causes while spreading festive cheer. 

#3 

Similar to the point above, if there’s someone who’d prefer not to receive a present (or says they don’t need anything), you could try making a small donation in their name to a charity of their choice. Everybody wins in this situation. 

#4 

Instead of reaching for the fanciful wrapping paper this Christmas, give Mother Earth a small gift too by using recycled paper or putting your present in a reusable shopping bag or tote. Not only does this also encourage people to be more environmentally friendly, your wrapping materials will cost less and last even longer. 

#5

If you’re thinking of buying someone cheap equipment or something that relates to their favourite hobbies, don’t. It’s a thoughtful but risky gesture because chances are you wouldn’t be as familiar with what they need. So unless you’re able to quiz ’em on it beforehand, it’s better to avoid niche presents. 

#6

Need ideas on what to get your friends, co-workers or relatives? Try asking them about their new year resolutions to get an idea of what they’d like or find useful. Also, it’s hard to go wrong with small gifts that’ll come in handy in everyday life, such as a retractable phone cable for the friend who’s always bringing their portable charger around, or even buying an organisational app for your pal who’s always on the go. 

#7 

For those group gift exchanges where you’re unsure on what to gift, opt for giving a present that can be used up. This could mean everything from perishable goods like cookies or chocolate, to items that can be used in everyday life, like candles or a really good hand lotion. 

#8

Avoid scrambling for last minute gift ideas by assembling a wish list for your friends and family throughout the year. It could be jotting down that offhand comment your dad made about wanting a particular gadget, or noticing how your BFF always shares posts about a certain beauty product – it’s all about the little details. Also, pay attention to the type of gifts they give others; it’ll show you the type of gifts they’d appreciate and point you in the right direction. 

#9

With that being said, the above doesn’t apply to buying pets for your loved ones (no matter how much they’ve expressed their desire for one!) unless you’re willing to take on the responsibility of caring for said animal. Studies have shown that many gifted pets are given away within the first year because their owners aren’t able to provide the commitment, effort and expenses required to take proper care of them. So even though a cuddly puppy/kitten/goldfish may seem like a wonderful gift, please avoid doing so at all costs. 

#10

Have a loved one living overseas? Order them a present online and ship it directly to their doorstep. Alternatively, you could surprise them by ordering them their favourite food via delivery – a relatively inexpensive way to bring ’em joy.

#11

If the potential recipient of your gift prefers thoughtful presents, you could show them how much they mean to you by gifting them with a scrapbook filled with your favourite memories, sweet messages and words of admiration. It’s like giving them an exclusive view of themselves through your eyes – totally unique and extremely flattering.

#12

Seeking the perfect present for adventurous types? Try giving them the gift of experience. It could be gift vouchers to the local paintball arena, go-karting circuit or even for a bungee-jumping session – they’d probably appreciate it way more than a traditional cookie cutter gift.

What other gift giving tips do you have? Share ’em with us in the comment section!

Not heading out of town this festive season? Hit up these staycation-worthy boutique hotels for a fun and memorable time with the fam! 

Amoy 

Grab the chance to be a tourist in Singapore by going on a staycation at Amoy. This oriental-themed boutique hotel is located at Chinatown and even incorporates an actual museum, the Fuk Tak Chi Museum into the entire experience. Don’t worry about Amoy being stuck in time though; this quaint staycation spot comes fully furnished with modern amenities so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. 

Book your stay at Amoy hotel on Expedia.com.sg at a discounted rate of $268 per night (original rates start at $298). 

The Daulat

Tucked away in Little India, The Daulat is a cosy boutique hotel that’s perfect for those seeking a fuss-free staycation. Its close proximity to various tourist spots, such as the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple and the colourful House of Tan Teng Niah allows families to soak in the vibrant sights and sounds easily. Make it a staycation to remember by visiting each of these spots and snapping family photos while at it! 

Book your stay at The Daulat on Expedia.com.sg at a discounted rate of $161 per night (original rates start at $215).

Hotel G 

The new kid on the block, Hotel G is a lifestyle hotel which ranks its 308 rooms according to Good, Great, Greater, which kinda implies you’ll never have a bad stay here. And this cosy hotel features retro-styled decor with a touch of whimsy that’ll appeal to visitors of all ages – it’s like a home away from home!

Book your stay at Hotel G on Expedia.com.sg at a discounted rate of $126 per night (original rates start at $149).

Andaz Singapore

The latest addition to the prestigious Hyatt family, Andaz (which means ‘Personal Style’ in Hindi) Singapore boasts a whopping 342 rooms, each elaborately designed and featuring floor-to-ceiling windows. Apart from its luxurious amenities, the hotel offers a wealth of dining options such as the Alley on 25, which is a collection of shophouse-themed eateries serving up scrumptious local fare, the 665°F restaurant for premium meats and seafood lovers, and Mr Stork, a uniquely designed rooftop bar that offers a panoramic view of the city. Also, treat yourself to complimentary refreshments at the Sunroom lounge and work off all the food you’ll be gobbling down at their outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness centre. 

 Book your stay at Andaz Singapore on Expedia.com.sg at a discounted rate of $370 per night (original rates start at $420). 

M Social Singapore 

Living up to the vibes its trendy name evokes, M Social is a chic boutique hotel that’s right up the alley of any modern millennial. Located in Robertson Quay, the Philippe Starck-designed hotel offers up four different-themed rooms across its 293-room capacity – including Pinterest-worthy loft-style rooms with attached outdoor terraces. We love how its decor encapsulates the modern essence with its tall ceilings, neutral colour schemes and sleek lines, while providing a homely atmosphere through its plush decor. 

Book your stay at M Social on Expedia.com.sg at a discounted rate of $180 per night (original rates start at $261).

Hotel Mono

Old world meets new at Hotel Mono, a boutique hotel disguised as a monochromatic masterpiece. Located in Chinatown, you’ll be able to spot this black-and-white establishment from a mile away. Minimalist lovers will love the sleek yet structured geometric designs and furnishings that are employed throughout the compound; it’s a tad simple as compared to the visual vibrance of other boutique hotels, but it also allows visitors the opportunity to escape into the monochromatic sanctuary they’ve built.

Book your stay at Hotel Mono on Expedia.com.sg at a discounted rate of $130 per night (original rates start at $145).

W Singapore  

We imagine staying at W Singapore would feel very much like going on a vacation fit for celebrity A-listers. Located in Sentosa Cove, this exclusive hotel has 10 distinctly-themed rooms ranging from posh to ultra luxurious. Its mid-tier room, the Away room, features its very own plunge pool (complete with jacuzzi jets!) amidst other luxurious amenities – if you’re looking for a hotel to host your ultimate dream staycation, this is it!

Book your stay at W Singapore on Expedia.com.sg at a discounted rate of $378 per night (original rates go up to $1,650 per night!).

This post was brought to you by Expedia Singapore  

Want to go on a staycation without having to actually shell out for it? Expedia Singapore is giving away a dream staycation worth up to S$3,000 for your entire fam. Head here for more details!