6 Reasons to Give the Gift of Travel
The best gift you can give is a meaningful life experience, filled with warm memories of the people and places that shaped it. What life experience makes a better gift than the gift of travel?
While it’s normal to buy material gifts for those you love, it’s extraordinary to give them something timeless.
Here are six reasons to give the gift of travel to your loved ones this holiday season.
1. Travel is Scientifically Proven to Create Happiness
When we create novel, happy travel experiences, we forge stronger bonds that improve our relationships and emotional wellbeing.
“We know from a large body of research that people derive more happiness from experiential purchases – travel, meals out, concerts – than they do from clothing or electronic goods or material possessions.”
– Amit Kumar, Professor of Psychology, University of Texas, in Elemental
Put another way, experiencing the world and feeling visceral new emotions naturally leads to greater happiness. The time you spend in those experiences also promotes brain health, inspires lifelong positivity and creates feelings of gratitude.
2. Travel Memories Last a Lifetime
Gadgets and toys come and go, but travel experiences stays with you forever. They become embedded in your being, helping you see the world and its people with greater compassion and care. They also help you create memories with loved ones that last a lifetime.
That’s the beauty of a trip: it’s nostalgia-in-the-making.
The Greane family's trip with Acera Travel to China transformed their vacation into a journey of family bonding and cultural exploration. From the historical allure of Beijing's Great Wall to the serene beauty of the Summer Palace, they discovered a new closeness amidst ancient wonders.
Acera Travel strives to make every trip a transformational, elevated experience. I take pride in our ability to deliver this for travelers of every age. For years after a trip, your time on safari, in timeless cities, or on the beach, will remain vivid in a way objects won’t.
3. Give A Gift that Gives Back
Acera Travel is committed to culturally immersive and sustainable travel. I understand that the beauty of travel lies in not just seeing new places, but in connecting with them in a way that is respectful and mindful of local cultures and environments.
In every destination, I work closely with local communities to ensure that our travel experiences support and uplift rather than exploit. I prioritize accommodations and experiences that are locally owned and operated, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are equitably shared.
I encourage our travelers to engage with local cultures in a way that is respectful and informed, offering educational resources and guidelines on local customs and traditions. Furthermore, my partners and I support various conservation and community projects in the destinations my guests visit. Whether it's participating in wildlife conservation efforts in Africa or supporting educational initiatives in Southeast Asia, I believe in giving back to the places that give us so much.
4. Show how much you care
Nothing says “I care about you” like sharing a vacation. Few other gifts allow for such special, uninterrupted bonding time, time you can use to come closer and share in a multitude of exciting experiences, sights and emotions. To travel with loved ones is to be in commune with the world and each other; it is to share in the delight of all that is new.
I specialize in tailoring trips to the unique interests and preferences of your gift recipients. Imagine gifting a coffee enthusiast a journey to the lush coffee plantations of Jamaica or Kenya, where they can learn about coffee production firsthand. For the avid knitter, a visit to Peru or Australia could offer the chance to explore local textile traditions and even participate in knitting workshops. And for fans of a particular TV show or movie, I can arrange visits to iconic filming locations, bringing their favorite scenes to life. These personalized travel experiences not only cater to specific hobbies and passions but also add an extraordinary level of thoughtfulness to your gift, creating memories and stories that are as unique as the person you’re gifting them to.
5. Souvenirs with a Story
If you want to round up gifts for future occasions during your travels, it’s always easy to grab trinkets, shot glasses, or fridge magnets from just about any souvenir shop. For a gift that’s handcrafted, made with care and attention, you may have to look a little harder–or trust the right people to help you find them.
On a trip with Acera, you can meet Maasai businesswomen who work in a variety of trades: beadwork, beekeeping and leather tanning, among others. Their products are available for purchase during a Tanzanian safari, meaning you can obtain a thoughtful, handmade gift that also supports small, environmentally friendly businesswomen in Tanzania.
In Morocco, another unique experience awaits. Wander the vibrant souks with a guide and discover the rich tapestry of local crafts. You can bring home freshly pressed Argan oil, sourced directly from a woman-owned cooperative farm. This not only gives you a unique, authentic souvenir but also supports sustainable practices and empowers local communities. Each purchase is more than just a memento; it’s a story of culture, tradition, and responsible tourism. A win-win!
6. Hassle-Free Shopping
When you trust travel professionals, it’s as easy as shopping for any other gift - without the crowds or waiting on a last minute delivery.
I have years of experience planning transformational travel itineraries for anyone of any age group, interest or experience level. Because travel should be hassle-free; I’ll book the hotels, meals, experiences and guides. You just show up for the fun. When you work with professionals, you get the peace of mind of knowing you are taken care of.
Gifting travel is more than just offering a trip; it's about presenting a gateway to new experiences, adventures, and perspectives. It's a gift that goes beyond the tangible, fostering happiness, creating lifelong memories, nurturing personal connections, and contributing positively to global communities. With Acera Travel, every journey is an opportunity to explore, connect, and grow.