Holidays, Travel, TV Appearances

Pondering the perfect holiday gift to give? What if the secret to true happiness lies not in material possessions, but in experiences? According to a compelling 20-year study highlighted by INC. Magazine, researchers found that investing in experiences, fleeting as they may be, rather than things contributes significantly to long-lasting happiness. 

Experiences become a part of our identity. The accumulation of everything we’ve seen, the things we’ve done, and the places we’ve been define who we are. A memorable trip to a breathtaking destination, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or spending quality time with family and friends, leaves an indelible mark on our lives. These experiences will linger in our memories for a lifetime. Purchasing the latest gadget might bring momentary excitement, but the happiness it provides can fade quickly and then the item may become clutter. 

Consider giving the gift of an outing or contribution towards an experience. Cherished memories can be created with a gift card for a favorite restaurant, Ticketmaster for a concert, an amusement park visit, a night at the theater, a stay at an Airbnb or hotel, a Disney experience, or even an airline ticket.

If you’re considering physical items or stocking stuffers to complement these experiences, here are some unique or useful ideas that can enhance their journey:

1. Luggage: Samsonite’s new Elevation Plus luggage line is a whole new experience in itself with compartments and dividers. The hard-sided carryon provides an easy access compartment for a laptop, books, or papers. The midsize “glider” piece has wheels on its long side instead of short side, allowing you to place your carryon on top of the piece – add a luggage belt to secure it.
   
2. Travel Wrap: This women’s wrap, perfect for a plane, also doubles as a pillow when stored in its matching bag. Whether it’s wanderlust, business or a bit of both, wrap yourself up in this classic and enjoy the journey.
   
3. Magnetic Hat Clip: If you’ve ever wonder how to transport your hat through airports and train stations, a magnetic hat clip solves it all! Secure your hat with the magnet and then clip to the handle on your luggage. The hat clip also works great to store hats at home – just place over a hook on the wall!
   
4. AirTag: Who can’t use an AirTag, traveling or not! We all lose things. Why not track with an AirTag? Add AirTag holders for keys, wallet, purse, pets, and luggage!
   
5. Mobile Phone Holder: Whether on a plane or train, at a desk, or in the kitchen, watching a video has never been easier. Clip the holder to a tray, desk, or cabinet to provide handsfree video viewing. The phone holder collapses into a small cylinder shape for easy transport.
   
6. Splitter for Headphones: A speaker and headphone splitter allows you to connect two headsets or speakers to one jack – cute and perfect for watching a movie on a plane with your partner or child.

Finding gifts at a discount can elevate your holiday cheer! Here are some deals and discounts worth exploring:

1. Samsonite Store at Philadelphia Premium Outlets: Mention the WFMZ-TV segment to receive a 10% discount on sale and regular-priced items until December 25th, 2023.
   
2. Promotional Codes: Online searches or live chats with companies can reveal surprising discounts, as in the case of Dyson products, where prior owners could access a 20% discount. I saved $106! If you would like the discount, send an email to Esmelki.Nunez@Dyson.com or visit https://www.dyson.com/dyson-live and select the chat box in the bottom right corner to ask a virtual expert for the discount.
   
3. Restaurant Bonus Cards: Some restaurants offer bonus cards with gift card purchases, like the Cheesecake Factory’s $15 bonus card on a $50 gift card purchase—a perfect treat for the opening in December 2023 at the Lehigh Valley Mall.
   
4. Gift Card Deals: Stores like Costco, BJ’s, and Target offer discounts on gift cards, including Disney, enhancing the value of your gifting.

As we gear up for the holiday season, let’s remember that the true essence of gifting lies not in material possessions but in the memories and experiences that bring lasting joy. Embrace the gift of experiences this season and spread the joy of making unforgettable memories with your loved ones!