Sunday, December 02, 2012

A no-crap Christmas shopping guide

'Tis the season to be bombarded with Christmas shopping guides. Everywhere we look we're exhorted to buy more stuff. Apparently Australians spend about $1 billion each year on gifts, but how many of them are actually wanted? How many of them deplete precious resources, or are made in sweatshops, or go straight in the bin as they don't match recipients' tastes? I've been on a 'no stuff please' campaign for years, and have mostly convinced my family and friends not to give me things I don't need. No tangible gifts doesn't have to mean no gifts at all though. Vouchers for experiences like a foot massage, an opera or ballet, a balloon ride or a cooking class are a fun idea. My partner likes to shout his parents nights in swish hotels for special occasions. Nice!

There are also lots of ways you can show you care by supporting a good cause. Here are some great gift ideas ...



(give the gift of microfinance! – you can check out my loan recipients here)




... or perhaps water for a school!

Please join me in giving non-cluttery, non-crappy gifts this holiday season. Cheers!

1 comment:

Dr Purva Pius said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.