THE LOCAL VISITOR'S 2016 GIFT GUIDE

If you're like most of us, you've just realized Christmas is nearly here. And if you're like some of us, your list includes some people who seem to have everything. Don't despair, we have (again) created a list of ideas that anyone would be thrilled to receive.

For the person who hates rain (or snow):

Those of us born in the city learned to hold an umbrella before we learned to walk. Those who are recent arrivals must quickly learn how to navigate the sea of umbrellas without loosing an eye. Nobody can ever have too many umbrellas, and that's even more true when they are designed by Westerly Goods. With quality craftsmanship and striking graphics and colour ways, these umbrellas cater perfectly to the urbanite with a desire to go outside and return home (relatively) dry.  Westerly also offers a variety of hats and other rain protective gear.

For the person with furniture: 

Furniture (even furniture that needs to be assembled with an Allen key) should be protected from drinks. Even if the furniture came from the lane, you can pass it off as "reclaimed" with the use of a coaster. For all your coaster (and other wood needs including cutting boards, serving boards, and furniture), we suggest heading over to Pacific Design Lab. Their workshop is conveniently located behind their retail shop so you can see how it's made. Be sure to shake Georgie's paw when you're there. 

Walrus: Not just for those long in the tooth

This shop on Cambie Street is as unique as its name. It has something for everyone, including items from Westerly Goods and Pacific Design Lab (how convenient). Full disclosure: we have done most of our Christmas shopping at Walrus, and  can attest that there is nobody on your list whose gift can't be found here. 

For the True Crime Lover

If you know someone who was glued to Serial or binge watched all of Making a Murderer then this is the perfect gift for them. In Cold Case Vancouver, author and local historian Eve Lazarus describes several unsolved murders that all occurred in Vancouver. Rich with historical facts and references, each chapter is chilling in its detailed narrative.  Given the setting of the book, enthusiastic readers can visit the sites of many of these crimes as they speculate on who may have gotten away with murder.  This book is also the perfect gift for 'The History Buff', 'The Bookworm' or anyone who wants to curl up on a cold night with a cold case (and a mug of hot chocolate or course).

We hope this help you in your search for the perfect gift for those last few names on your list.  Finally, Happy Holidays from The Local Visitor and we'll see you in 2017!

THE LOCAL VISITOR'S GIFT GUIDE

December has arrived, which means its time to open your wallet and search for the perfect gift for your loved ones. We've come up with a few ideas for those Vancouverites who are particularly difficult to shop for: 

The Workaholic: That person who is always at work, talking about work, or thinking about work. Their hands are calloused from all that typing, their nails are non-existent from the stress, and it looks like they haven't slept since high school.

Recommendation: A manicure from JoyRide (from $20), or a bottle of vodka from Sons of Vancouver (from $20).

The Child (Not Only in Age): The person who would prefer a slumber party to a cocktail party, or who still laughs every time they think of the French word for 'seal'.

Recommendation: A jar of candy from Karameller (from $10).

The MAMIL (Middle-Aged Man in Lycra): The person you can't stare at too long in case your eyes wander to all the wrong (right?) parts. Also works for MAFILs (though the acronym doesn't sound as good). 

Recommendation: A gift card to Musette Caffe (from $ how cheap are you?).

The Mathlete: This is the person who can actually calculate the tip without using the app on their phone because they still remember what you learned in high school math.

Recommendation: A trip to La Casa Gelato. If there are 518 flavours, how many days would it take to eat all the different double scoop permutations?? 

The Person That Wears Flannel and has a Beard: Despite the toque that perpetually adorns their head, these peoples' hearts are warmed by one thing only: Craft Beer.

Recommendation: A B33r Box from 33 Acres (from $75) 

The Entertainer:  This person loves playing the host. Nothing makes them happier than having you over to showcase their DIY and Kinfolk-worthy talents. Everything this person produces has thousands of Instagram likes by the time the night is over. #nbd. 

Recommendation: A reclaimed wood serving tray from Pacific Design Lab (from $79)

The Athlete: While you're still figuring out how to tie your shoes, this person has already finished the race. They master every sport they try and do triathlons on the weekends...without training. This person is always looking to try a new sport, no matter how cold the water. 

Recommendation: A Group Shaping Lesson from Shaper Studios (from $30).

The Health Enthusiast: This person is best friends with their yoga instructor and makes lycra look good (not to be confused with the MAMIL above). They haven't eaten gluten since 1992, but their skin is so so soft. 

Recommendation: A Juice Cleanse from Glory Juice (from $180).