Gift card or gift? Certainly, cards are easier and appreciated, especially when they come from a company the recipient likes. Say from www.ruffwear.com for their pooch, or everything outdoors from www.rei.com, or www.llbean.com.
But even these days, when we are all overworked and overscheduled, not to mention overextended, there is something wonderful — even magical — about watching someone you love opening a gift they love and will use again and again.
Westlands Fair Isles Sweater. (Royal Robbins)
It’s not that difficult to manage. When it comes to gifts for your favorite travelers, whatever their ages, think about their passions (outdoors, theater, art, food, Disney…) and where they hope to travel next. Also consider how they feel about helping the environment. Many companies, including Patagonia, REI, Royal Robbins now make products created at least in part from recycled materials. (For the favorite man in your life, who lives in cold climes, I like Royal Robbins’ cozy Snowcap-Lined Flannel Shirt, which is lined with recycled fleece ($115)….