Creative Gift Ideas for Loved Ones Living Abroad

Do you need help with what gifts to give your loved ones who live abroad? Fear not! The Smithsonian Libraries has got you covered. Instead of sending the usual gift card or a simple sweater, get creative this Twelfth Night with these thoughtful gift ideas:

1. Custom Map Prints: Surprise your loved ones with customized map prints of their favorite cities or the places they’ve traveled to. With the help of websites like Mapify or Mapiful, you can design and order a personalized map print that will remind them of their travels.

2. Subscription Boxes: Give the gift of a surprise every month through subscription boxes. There are various options, including snack boxes, makeup bags, book clubs, and monthly boxes with items from their home country.

3. Language Lessons: For your loved ones studying or working abroad, consider giving them the gift of language lessons. Websites like Babbel or Duolingo offer language learning courses that can be accessed anywhere.

Making the Holidays Fun and Festive

christmas-with-your-loved-ones

With the holidays approaching, it’s time to prepare for those traditions. Here are some fun and festive ideas to make the holidays extra special for you and your loved ones:

1. Christmas Jokes and Word Games: Lighten the mood with Christmas jokes and word games that will surely put everyone in the holiday spirit.

2. Bedazzle the Bedroom: Who says the decorations are limited to the living room? Add holiday cheer to your loved ones’ bedrooms with fairy lights, festive bedding, and decorative pillows.

3. Kid Helpers: Involve the little ones in the holiday preparation by assigning them simple tasks, like decorating the Christmas tree, baking cookies, or wrapping gifts.

4. Wrapping Paper and Hymns: Make gift wrapping more enjoyable with the best wrapping paper and some feel-good Christmas hymns in the background.

5. Holiday Wishes: Spread the holiday cheer by sending thoughtful and heartwarming messages to your loved ones abroad. Knowing that they are remembered during the holidays can make a huge difference.

In conclusion, with these creative gift ideas and holiday traditions, your loved ones living abroad will surely feel the love and warmth from home. Happy Twelfth Night!