Before you know it, the holidays will be here. So now’s the time to make your list and check it twice—especially if there are travelers on your list. As someone who’s already taken 30 flights this year, I can tell you that no road warrior wants another boring water bottle or luggage tag. What we want is something that’s practical, stylish—or both! And these five gifts fit the bill. Best of all: Every item I’ve selected is available online, so you can seize the “shopportunity,” wherever in the world you happen to be. Happy Holidays!
Turkish Delight I came across Okaicos, a Turks and Caicos Islands tribute brand, on trip to Provo a couple of years ago and knew I’d eventually make one of their sweatshirts mine. Available in men’s and women’s cuts, their hoodies, crop tops and sweats are super-soft and feature chenille letters and embroidery for a low-key, high-end look. Paired with a fun, island-themed trucker hat, they make the perfect gift for the stylish globetrotter. From $138; okaicos.com
Let The Sun Shine (Safely) Are you practicing safe sun? Besides wearing (and frequently reapplying) sunscreen and avoiding the hottest part of the day, there’s one more thing you can add to your anti-burn arsenal. Paired with a proprietary app, sun-a-wear’s nifty waterproof tracker (which clips on to clothing, swimwear or an included wristband) measures your UV exposure and alerts you when it’s time to take a break from basking. $89. sun-a-wear.us
Something Special It’s easy to fall in love with Bajan maker Samarah Comissiong’s collection of necklaces, earrings, bracelets and chokers, all crafted on island from kiln-fired porcelain. Something Samarah’s bestseller is the Love necklace—available in a rainbow of colors and in varying lengths—which features a knotted string of hand-rolled porcelain beads, punctuated with a mahogany heart. $100; somethingsamarah.com
Festive Spirit Sorrel (an infusion made from the petals of a hibiscus-like flower) is a traditional Jamaican drink, most popular at Christmas time, when it’s served over ice and spiked with white rum. Now imbibers all over the world can enjoy a version of the tasty tipple in the form of Sorel, a liqueur hibiscus, cloves and ginger that’s practically guaranteed to add some punch to your party. $42; sorelofficial.com
Bag Check I’m a full-fledged member of #TeamCarryOn. But there are occasions—albeit rare—when I’m forced to check a bag. And when I do, I choose something like Eastpak’s Resist’r wheeled hardside, which features lockable clamp closures (because savvy travelers know that the zip is the most vulnerable part of your luggage). It’s also lightweight, so you can maximize your weight allowance (the medium size holds 63 liters), and this Fire Red colorway makes it a cinch to spot on the carousel. $349; us.eastpak.com
Want more engaging Caribbean insight from the none other than the “Carivangelist” herself? CHECK OUT THIS LINK.
