Memories of my sister’s wedding celebrations are a bit of a blur. There was too much happening all at once. But what I do have vivid memory of is the excitement she felt when it came to unwrapping all the presents the new couple got. As was to be expected, she ended up with moretea sets and vases than she knew what to do with, and her excitement waned to disappointment. At least there was the honeymoon to look forward to!
We’ve all been on the receiving end of boring gifts, and we’ve all been equally guilty of reciprocating. My friend has a rule he hasn’t broken in years – he simply gives out gift cards no matter the occasion. So whether you’ve invited him to your birthday party or a housewarming, you know you’re getting a 2,000 rupee voucher to do with what you will. While that may take some of the thrill out of the getting a beautifully wrapped gift, at least you can’t go wrong with it!
This got me thinking – if I could ask for any gift in the world, what would it be? The answer came in a flash. I would want to have as many unique experiences as I possibly could in my limited lifetime.
Dining Experiences
All celebrations revolve around food – romantic anniversary dinners, birthday brunches, “treats” on promotions and successes. Everybody appreciates a lovely dining experience where someone fusses over you, the chef comes along to chat with you, and you’ve satiated your craving for a remarkable meal with a glass of fine wine.
There’s little I love more than dressing up for a delightful evening by the beach, sipping on a mojito and indulging in exquisite food. Anybody who gives me that dining voucher (read Radisson Blu Resort Mamallapuram) will be the recipient of my unconditional love forever!
One of the most unique dining experiences I’ve had has been at the newly launched J.Hind restaurant at the Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels. Also check out the ‘Splash-A-Lot’ brunch at Salt Co. 531 – Radisson Blu Hotel, GRT Chennai.
Feeling a Bit Of Extra Love For Someone? Send Them Travelling!
Is there anything more “experiential” than travelling? Give your parents or grandparents the gift of a comfortable temple-hopping tour. Perhaps you want to thank a dear friend for being there for you. Send them packing an adventure trail to Kodaikanal or Yercaud.
Hamper of Love
A great way to make a gift interesting is to create a customised hamper. Fill it with chocolates, sweets, cakes, jams, a lovely bottle of wine, cookies, muffins. Throw in some candles, perfume, beautiful jewellery (or a keychain for men!) and you’ve got the best hamper ever. Your loved one will remember it for eternity because they will truly experience how much thought went into that goodie basket. You can also include vouchers – for a customised cake or spa session, or perhaps one from GRT Jewellers for the diva in your group!
The most exciting part of these experiences is that the presents don’t have to follow any pattern at all – you can customised them as much as you’d like, to suit your loved one’s tastes and preferences.
GRT Hotels & Resorts offers a range of gifting options – from dining vouchers and stays, to spa experiences and personalised hampers. Speak to us on 1800 425 55 00 for details.