Holiday Gift Guide - 2018

'Tis the season to

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H 4IPQQJO matters

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Finding the

By TOM WUCKOVICH, Times correspondent

Shopping for the holidays is just around the corner, and most people — nearly seven in 10 — begin with a blank slate, e.g.; they're totally undecided about what gift to buy or are considering a number of gift options.

To get ideas they ask family and friends browse

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Untamed Raptors, that will interact with your kid, wrap around their little finger, learn to talk and roar in “dino speak.” How they are taken care of, will influence their personality. Another dinosaur on the list is the Jurassic World Giant Jurassic Rex. The toy’s eyes light up and the mouth glows a bright red when it’s enraged

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

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Z M O P

T -PDBM

Small Business Saturday

makes a big impact

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

HEAD TO LOCAL SHOPS

NOV. 24

TO SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY.

took part in Small Business Saturday nationwide. In 2017, that participation rate grew to 7,200, American Express says. An estimated 108 million consumers said they visited a local shop or restaurant that day, according to an American Express survey, generating roughly $12 billion in spent dollars. When AMEX polled consumers, 90-percent of them said SBS had a positive effect on the community.

It’s no surprise that many neighborhood-focused business owners in Tampa Bay participate in Small Business Saturday. They create a fun and supportive atmosphere that feels a little more like a block or porch party than a corporate-inspired event.

Cleanse Apothecary owner Gregory Curtis opened his bath and body store in Tampa’s Seminole Heights neighborhood nine years ago and has participated in Small Business Saturday for the last eight years. He also teams up with independent Seminole Heights businesses for the Thursday, November 22, 2018

the neighborhood grow, it strengthens the community, and home values go up,” Curtis says. “Nine years ago when we opened here, there were no small businesses at all. But since then it has snowballed to become an awesome neighborhood everyone wants to come to.”

In addition to boosting sales at the start of the holiday shopping season, Small Business Saturday can help owners build their customer base.

“While it’s a great shopping day in our store, the bigger impact is giving us a chance to highlight what we have to offer so that customers come back all year,” says Kelly M. Hackman, owner of The White Heron Tea & Gifts in New Port Richey, who is participating in Small Business Saturday for the second time. “We have people that visited us last year on Small Business Saturday that have become regular customers of ours. They may not have known we were here See Locals only pg.13 TAMPA BAY TIMES SPECIAL SECTION

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F V R J O 6

local gifts

Playing Santa is never more fun than when you’re shopping local. The Tampa Bay area’s mom-and-pop shops, specialty boutiques and online stores are filled with great gift ideas that allow you to think outside the big box. Whether you’re choosing gifts for foodies, travel buffs, tech geeks or other loved ones, this list has got you covered with more than a dozen local gifts ideas.

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

OUTDOORS LOVERS ERS Shopping for a fella who o loves es hiking and b backpac backpacking? ac Saxx Quest underwear ar ($31.95) $31.9 at Bill Jackson’s Shop for Adventure, 9501 U.S. 19 N, Pinellas Park (billjacksons.c (billjacksons.com), kso are designed with h a spe special “ballpark pouch” to help p me men stay friction-free.. Saxx x uses an ultra-lightweight fabric ic tha that dries quickly. So guys ys can wash and rinse them on the g go, and be ready to hitt tthe trail again in no time.

Also at Bill Jackson’s: T The e Hot Chillys Women’ss Mic M croelite Chamois Crewneck wn ck ($60) provides the he per erfect base layer to he help p keep k women wa warm m and an dry during out outdoor winter fun.

The shirt’s Micro-Elite base layer is made of a blend of synthetic antimicrobial materials that wicks away moisture. It fits snugly for easy layering, but still gives a full range of motion thanks to its four-way stretch properties.

See Unique pg.10

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From Unique pg. 9

FOODIES

DIYers

Foodies who love cooking at h home will flip for the bea tifully retro Smeg beautifu blender nde ($249.99) ($2 at Casa di Mazzaro, 30 001 22nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg bu g (casadimazzaro. com). The Italia ta an manufacturer is known forr itss premium 1950s-style ap applliances. The powerful 4-spee -s ed blender comes in a vvari riety of vibrant colors and d fea atures three preset programs ogr ms for smoothie, ice crush ush a and nd pulse. Want more than th n just ju a blender? Casa di Mazzaro carries the full d Smeg line of small appliances, including a toaster, citrus juicer, stand mixer and more.

Do-it-yourselfers who create and renovate furniture swear by Dixie Belle Paint p products, says Michelle Walsh, co-owner of The Marketplace Trinity, 7813 Mitchell Blvd. #110, Trinity ((727-264-8187). Dixie ixie Bell elle’s mineral chalk paints ($9.95 and up) contain adhesive qualities lit s designed d to eliminate the need to sand, prime or prep. “You You ju ust clean it, paint it and you’re good says Walsh, who loves oves that the popular paints were ed by a Lutz-based entr e repreneur. The store also carries elle’s waxes, glazes, sta ains, and patina paints, including ndy Crackle ($13.95), 5), w which distresses wood.

HIPSTERS What’s hipper than a French h bulldog b lld on a bicycle? The folks at Dark Cycle Clothing (darkcyclecloth hing.com), g. a Tampa-based online clotthing n store, specialize in zany T-shirtts featuring fe animals riding bikes ($2 25 an and up). The hand-drawn designs com me iin men’s, women’s and unisex sizes es and n depict pugs, sloths, sharks, donke keyss a and other critters pedaling to their hea earts’ s’ content. c Special seasonal Christmas and dH Hanukkah anukka themed shirts are also available. Want Wa to see the goods in person? Find the Dark Cycle Clothing pop-up at this weekend’s Shopapalooza in St. Pete’s Straub Park.

Check their website for more upcoming market appearances.

TRAVEL BU BUFFS FF

kcycleclothing.com

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Anyone with wa anderlust de will adore Road Trips: A Guide Gu e to Travel, Adven nture, ur and Choosing Your Own Path b

by Je en CK Jacobs ($18..95)) at Inkwood Books, 1809 N Tampa pa Stt., Tampa (inkwoo odbooks.com). bo The beautiful coffee table b book features eight ei ht inspiring stories about hitting th the road to experience nce ne new places. Packed with scenicc p pho photos and tips, it’s the perfect ect guide for those who believe elie tthat to travel is to live.

Also at Inkwood: Tiny travelers lers can have have more mo ba backseat fun with Sticker Road Trip: 50 States by Cour Courtney Acampora and Sara Lynn Cramb ($12.99). The interactive, 96-page sticker book helps kids learn about all 50 U.S. states and the landmarks that make each one special.

Thursday, November 22, 2018

GAME NERDS The hottest-selling video game for PlayStation on n 4 and a d Xbo Xbox x On One users this holiday season is Red Dead Redem emption ion 2 ($59.99), says Brett Morgan, co-owner of M&M Video Games, 9336 Oakhurst Rd, d Seminole (mandmvideogames.com). “P People opl have been waiting on the game for years,” Morgan explains ns. Th The Western-themed actionadventure, set in 1899, is a prequel to 20 2010’s Red Dead Redemption and is the third entry in the popular Red ed Dead series. Feeling extragenerous? Morgan also recommendss the he just-released Fallout 76 ($59.99). The post-apocalyptic game,, set et in 2102, takes place after a nuclear war devastates Earth and act cts as a narrative prequel to previous Falloutt games.

READERS Literary- and grammar-themed soy candles ($ $16.95) 6. at Wonderland Floral Art and Gift Loft, 28 887 7 22nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg (wonderlandfloralart.com) mak ke th the perfect gift for the book lovers in your life. The candles, by Fly y Paper ap Products, come in special scents that act as tributes to specific aut uthors ors and literary types: The Jane Austen candle smells like tangy citru trus and juniper, while the Jack Kerouac has hints of leather and wood. d. There’s T ere’s even even a Sexy Librarian candle for lit lovers who are both naughty and nice.

See Unique pg.12

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F

FITNESS FREAKS Cycling is an ideal form of exercise to help maintain weight and improve strength, balance maintai and co coordin dination. Treat your fitness-minded loved one tto a spiffy new Cannondale fitness bike ($399 an and up) u from Brooksville Bicycle Center, 1110 0 W Jefferson J St., Brooksville (brooksvillebicycle. cyc e.com). Fitness bikes are similar to road bikes, bu but have h straight handlebars instead of drop b barrs, explains the store’s owner, Marc Reusch. “They T ey’re great bikes for people who want someth me hing a little faster than a comfort bike. e. You ou don’t sit up quite as straight.

It’s a lot more mor a aerodynamic, and that works out better ter for lon onger rides,” says Reusch.

TECH GEEKS Vinyl records have made a huge comeback in recent years, with turntables once again a hot gift idea for music lovers. Now the whole operation just got more sleek and modern thanks to the Pro-Ject Vertical Turntable ($499), available at Rick’s Electronics Boutique, 1128 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (donttossitwefixit.com). The compact turntable stands uprig upright and plays both 33 and 45 rpm vinyl records. Place it atop furniture ture or moun mount it on a wall like a work of art. A minimalist’s dream! Come mes in n red, white or black black..

PEOPLE WH WHO ALREADY YH HAVE IT ALL Give the per person on who has everything the everythin th power to illuminate ll nate it all. The Made Goods black marble lamp ($180) at Oxford Exchange, 420 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (oxfordexchange.com), is a stylish alternative to harsh overhead lighting. Perfect for bookcases and desks, the lamp’s 4.5” cylindrical base is topped off by an elongated exposed bulb, giving it a look that’s both edgy and elegant.

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

From Locals only pg 7

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(JGGPUS T

10

$

OR

Less

By VIRGINIA PELLEY Times correspondent

Good things can come with small price tags. Save money and support local merchants with these picks for extra-special gifts at surprisingly affordable prices.

Tupelo on 4th, a charming gift shop in a turquoise bungalow on a quiet brick street in Safety Harbor, carries a ton of affordable, cute, out-of-the-norm gifts. Bring back memories to an old girlfriend by giving her some retro Rollerball Lip Potion gloss ($10) or Lip Licking Lip Balm in the little metal tins ($7), or keep someone cool with a propeller attachable hable fan for a cellphone ($10). Owner Melissa Haist also so carries ca ries a line of popular Greenwich Bay Trading Co. prod oducts ucts including soaps for $3.50 each and beeswax lip balm in gor gorgeously designed boxes for $4.50. Another cute ide ea:: A Apple Mulling Spice Spoons or Tupelo Honey Spoons forr tea ea lovers for just $2.50 each. (Facebook.com/tupeloon4th))

Choose from a plethora et of potted native plants – such as Florida peperomia peper ($6), Adam’s Needle agave ave plants ($10) and a variety varie of ferns from $6 to $7 7 at Wilcox Nursery & Landscape in Largo. Wilcox puts an emphasis on native ative plants and low low-imp low-impact gardening to help to balance e Florida’s eco ecological landscape. (wilcoxnursery.com)

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

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From Less pg.14

Help the Brandon nonprofit Emergency Care Help Organization (ECHO) end hunger in Eastern Hillsborough County by purchasing key chains hand-stamped by their artisans. Made from upcycled teaspoons and bearin earing g encouraging sentiments such as “Carpe Diem” m” and “Love Endures,” they’re only $10 and a gift you u can can ffeel good about giving. (echohandmade.org)

New Port Richey bath shop shop Dream Bubble carrie ies an unsurprisingly dream amy y selection of luxurious gifts to m make recipients feel pam mp pered, such as handmade wax xm melts and candle tins from $8 tto $10, soaps for $6 each and bath ba h bombs for just $5. (faceboo ook.com/ k.c dreambubbleshop)

Delicious gifts don on’t ’t have to be pricy – pick up a bag of Real Pantry try maple ma cornbread Fluffy Waffles mix for just $10 at The Merchant o on Central Avenue in St. Pete. te. Owners Jennifer J and Kevin Schultz also carry locally made hand-burnt St. Pete-themed coaster sets ($10) that make a great gift. (merchantstpete.com) See Less pg.18

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

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From Less pg 16

Pick outt a vvintage pulp novel at Back in the Day in Dunedin, nedin, di many of which sell for under $10, $1 for collectors ollectors ec who love hard-boiled crime stori stories. o (Search ch ffor or @BackintheDayBooks on faceboo facebook. facebook.com) o

The cocktail enthussiasts as on your list will appreciate a Stonewall Kitchen n co cocktail mixer ($9) from LMD Boutique in Dunedin in. C Choose from Lemon Drop, Pomegranate Cosmo, Mosc oscow Mule or Blood Mary y mixers. (Lizmurtaghboutiq tique.com) ue.c

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Iff so someone on your list loves ove a good Cuban, pick out his or her favorite variety of hand-rolled cigar (singles start at $5) from family business La Faraona Cigars in Ybor City. Stay for a few minutes to watch them roll them by hand. (la (lafaraonacigars.com)

tea lovers is a three-piece am d tea amid t sachets for just The White Heron Tea & Gifts “We e also a so sell pretty little customers me s can put the sachet er Kellyy M M. Hackman. “They the 3-pac pa ks and come in .25 each.” c ” om)

Brooksv ville-based e K Farms Natural Gifts makes it easy to bu uy g gifts that support a loccal business from the comffort r of your couch. Visit Shop pkfarms.com fa and order one of th their cute, retro crochet eted d owl hanging kitchen towels towe for just $8. photo: K Farms Na Natural ral Gifts G

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T U G J H

Z B E J M P ) for family

By VIRGINIA PELLEY Times correspondent

Don’t get overwhelmed by holiday family gift shopping pressure, because it’s about to get easier. We’ve combed the Tampa Bay area and found more than 40 ideas for thoughtful, fun gifts for everyone in your family.

See Family pg. 22

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From Family pg. 20

(JGUT for

siblings

Shop for brothers and sisters who love to read at the amazingly cool Back in the Day bookstore, which has a great selection election of affordable vintage pulp novels els as well as new books, graphic novels, ls, comics omic and adult coloring books at its brig ght ne new location (355 Main St., Dunedin, n, 727-221-0025).

27 Owner Boe Rushing sa ayss h he’s still going through and pricing hundreds n of the pulp novels he has in storage, o so let him know if you’re lookin ng fo for a specific title.

If you’re not sure what at you your siblings have already read, play it safe fe with wi a Kurt Vonnegut Breakfast of Champions Ch mp or Edgar Allen Poe-ka-dot coffe ffee mugs mug by Out of Print ($12 each).

No matter how quirky or conservative your brothers and sisters might be, you’re sure to find great gifts for them at The Merchant (633 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, merchantstpete.com), a new self-described “funky urban” general store.

Check out the great selection of barware, locally made candles and soaps and cooking- and baking-related gifts. Foster & Rye canvas growler totes ($38) are perfect for siblings into camping, hiking or boating (and, of course, beer), and The Merchant also carries a sporty backpack picnic set for $59. Supporting local artisans is a priority for owners Jennifer and Kevin Schultz, who carry hand-burnt St. Pete-themed med coaster-and-wooden pallet sets ts (4 pallets allets fo forr $20) as well as Tarpon Springs ngs sea sp sponge lemongrass soaps ($12) and nd oth other locally made goods. Cooks will love l ve an etched bamboo cutting board ($40) 40 or Florida Pure sea salts in flavors such h ass chocolate, lime and maple bacon ($15 5 each). ac Find more eclectic gift options, ass well, we such as cocktail bitters sets, decorative wine n stoppers, and novelty socks and throw w pillows. illo

actually excitin xc ing at ZaZoo’d, named after owner er’s term for fo wine w loopiness (531 Central Ave. in rg, 1627 27 Sno now Circle, Tampa; zazood.com), where he perf perfect ct oddball gift you would have never but sudd bu suddenly need for the siblings on your list.

Cocktail accesso accessories and beautiful sets of vintage glassware, risqué oven mitts and aprons for hip cooks and framed photos of landmark local motel neon signs are just some of the offerings in this eclectic collection of gifts for any budget.

Splurge on a submarine table clock ($450; similar, smaller clocks are $235) or a framed Tampa or St. Pete city illustration ($160), or if money’s tight this year, ear, get et bro or or sis a snarky snark bandanna for their dog ($16) or a NSFW SFW novelty n bracelet elet fo for $1 $15. Zazoo’d

g. 24

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From Family pg. 22

Support the first craft rum distillery in Tampa while checking off your holiday gift list: Siblings who love tiki cocktails will appreciate a bottle of rum ($25, $45 for limited-edition rums) from 82 West Distilling, a new spot in Seminole Heights (6430 6430 Florida Ave Ave., Tampa, 82westrum.com). Pick up a bottle of o easy-to-sip easy-t American Pie, with light hintss of apple and cinnamon, n, or cho choose a more tropical rum, m, such uch as cardamom- and vanilla-sp vanilla-spiced nilla Paradise or the aptly tly named Coconut Breeze.

If sis loves luxury bath items, check out Dream Bubble Shop (5730 Main St., New Port Richey, dreambubblecrafts.com) for handmade soaps (3 for $15), bath bombs ($5 each h or 4 for $ $15), massage oils or bath and pampering g GreenTree nTree Nat Naturals p products containing CBD oil. Dream eam m Bubb Bubble owner Cathy Ban Banaciski can also help you pick ko out a home dĂŠcor item, m, pi piece of jewelry or

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From Family pg. 24

(JGUT for

parents

Help Mom and Dad enrich their heir inne innerr lives with a book from independent Inkwood Books, now in a new lo locatio tion in Tampa Heights (1809 9 N Tampa St., Tampa, inkwoodbooks. inkwoodboo ood com). Inkwood d carries arr a variety of genres, including g antiquities, gardening, den cookbooks, political science, rel religio religion and much more. e. Or if Mom and Dad love fiction, she might mi love the Ne ew Yo York Times bestseller Where the Crawdads ds Sin ng

by Delia Ow wens ns ($26), and he might prefer Amor Towles Towles’’ A Gentleman n in M Moscow w ($27). True-crime-loving parents migh m ht like I’ll Be Gone ne in the Dark k by Michelle MacNamara ($28).

28 Browse the shelves elv of reliable staff picks, too.

Stylish and tasteful gifts for Mom in any price range are everywhere you look at the huge new LMB Boutique (764 Main St., Dunedin flagship at 815 S Howard Ave. in Tampa, Lizmurtaghboutique.com).

Howard To name na e just j a few: silver and turquoise jewelry trays and boxes oxe ($64 ($ and up), bath bombs for around $5 each, Fr Fren nch milled soaps ($6), French lavender fragrancess ($4 46) and beautiful olive wood bowls ($20 each) and sp spoo ons ($6.50 each). She’ll love a beautiful bottle of perfu e ume, shea butter lotion or a candle by Lollia. You’ll ’ll fin nd Stonewall Kitchen cocktail mixers ($9), home e déc écor leather bags and clothing, as well.

See Family pg. 28

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Kill two birds with one stone and shop for resort wear, accessories and gifts perfect for Florida moms and dads at Clearwater’s Poolside and Key (1261 Gulf Blvd., poolsideandkey.com). Poolside carries many popular clothing lines such as Lily Pulitzer, Trina Turk and Tommy Bahama as well as comfy shoes by fitflop and Birkenstock. Pick out a piece of jewelry by Pandora or Bourbon and Bowties for Mom or a pair of Maui Jim sunglasses ($170 to $350), which are bestsellers, says owner Isaac Jacki Arobas. Another cool gift idea idea, Arobas says, is Joy wristlets ($49): “They’re They’re ’re very popular pular litt little ha handbags made out of vegan leather er that hat come in many colors,” s,” he says. s “They can be used as a fanny ny bag, crossbody bag or wristlet ist bag.” Also popular are e the he fun coastal-style napkin holders, ers sa salt and pepper shakers an nd sa salad bowls by Mud Pie (prices vary ry widely) Arobas says

If Pop enjoys a cigar now and then en, st stop by Tabanero Cigars (1601 7th Ave., Ybor City, abanerocigars.com), ocigars.com), ars.c where someone e will w assist you in selecting the perfect hand-rolled nd-rolled rolled cigar for him. m. O Or buy a gift box of five Robusto cigars for $30, single stocking stuffer t ci cigars for under $5 each or a box of Robust Sweet Lips ($100 $100 for 20 20).

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Olive oil is a useful, elegant gift nearly everyone will love. At Kalamazoo Olive (449 Central St. Petersburg, kalamazooolive.c you can give your parents single bottles of expertly sourced, topquality herb-infused oils and vin or a sampler so they can discove new favorites. A perfect choice is a box of olive oil and vinegar paired for you and beautifully wrapped ($34); choose from Trip to Italy, with traditional Tuscan herbs, Fisherman’s Delight for a Persian lime oil and honeyginger vinegar or the French Rubies pairing, which contains pomegranate vinegar and olive oil infused with herbs de Provence. Or gift them a pack of four mini oils and vinegars vine ars for just $21. Ownerr James J mes Ryan suggests stirring Kalamazoo’s am CinnamonPear Balsamic ($ $16) 6) iinto softened vanilla ice cream m and serving it over er poached pears.

See Family pg. 30

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From Family pg. 29

(JGUT for

grandparents

Delectable enough to have been featured in O magazine’s “Oprah’s 2013, Toffee to Go (3251 W Bay to Bay Blvd., Tampa, toffeetogo.co collections in beautiful green and striped boxes that make perfect gifts for anyone yon with a sweet tooth. Grandma and Grandpa will love one (or all) of Toffee to Go’s confections suiting many a sweet tooth, including classic milk chocolate almond, white chocolate macadamia nut and dark chocolate with pecan toffees.

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See Family pg. 32

Thursday, November 22, 2018

4

Get into the

of the season

T U J S J Q 4

By TOM WUCKOVICH, Times correspondent The holidays are usually beset with festive parties where friends and family get together to celebrate the season. As is the custom, specialty drinks, creative cocktails – even spiked eggnog – are all part of the mix when it comes to party favors that help make the season bright.

Liquor retailers do their part, offering whiskeys, rums, wines and liqueurs in specially designed, often ornate bottles that also make for great gifts. Wine packaged with matching tote bags, whiskey that is paired with select glassware, a vodka bottle outfitted with a tiny sweater or branded alcohol that appears in a holder that’s actually a music box that plays holiday music have all found a place in retail stores.

These prepackaged gift sets (called value-added packs, or VAPs), are another way for distributors and bottlers to get recognizable brands in front of consumers. But these holiday gift sets, from the inexpensive and cheesy to the high end, have become extremely popular gift ideas for the season, as well as ways for brands to get a slice of the Christmas cash flow.

See Spirits pg. 33

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From Family pg. 30

Got a grandparent wit ith a green thumb? Choose from mad dizzying selection of potted plants, an flowers and trees at a wide e variety ar of price points at Eden Nursery (3145 N McMullen Booth Rd d., C Clearwater, edennursery.com). Eden Eden also offers a lovely selection of glazed zed c from Vietnam, Malaysia ia and nd Mexico as well as hand-pain pain pottery from Spain.

Artsy, craftsy grandparents gr nd might like something g fo for the home or yard from Starboard Home (31003 U.S. 19 9, Pa Palm Harbor, mystarboardh home.com). me You might get lost in the huge g selection of vintage and chal alk pa paint refinished furniture, artwork, k, decorative eco throw pillows, country ntry home an and yard accessories, vintage e kitchen kitc utensils and mixing bowls, antique coffee pots and cake savers, planters, lamps and vases, but you’ll emerge with unique and memorable gifts.

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Find high-end body care products cts for men and women by Caldre aldrea,, Archipelago Botanicals and and Bee Beekman 1802 at Lafayette & Rushford Home in Dunedin (721 (7 1 B Broadway, Dunedin and 4876 New ew Broad St. in Orlando, layfayettte-rushford.com) ru for grandparents who enjoy some pampering. Or sellectt gifts from a wide variety of bea autiful, tif antiquelooking Christmas ornaments am (prices vary), Lafayette & Rus ushford ord and Voluspa scented candles es ($27), $27) Italian herringbone fouta towelss ($75) ($ 5) and classic Braswell’s butters and jams ams in reusable glass jars ($7 each).

From Spirits pg. 31

The versatility of a gift of spirits contributes to its popularity, and in many cases, the bottle can be personalized with a label to include an individual’s name or a unique holiday greeting.

Customized wine, liquor or champagne bottles can put some real punch into your holiday party and will definitely impress the guests.

And speaking of punch, don’t forget to include a dazzling, colorful and tasty one as a centerpiece of your holiday table. There is a wealth of punch recipes to choose from, and if you have a certain theme to your party, try and craft a punch to match.

a picnic travel bar. Most retail stores and liquor stores stock a multitude of valuable accessories.

While a gift of liquor may be a good idea, always choose your recipient carefully and always make sure you — and they — drink responsibly.

Alcohol as a gift also has a side benefit: It opens the door to a range of other related products that can be included in the goody bag. The possibilities include elegant wine openers, wine stem savers to prevent breaking the glasses in the dishwasher, personalized beer bottle openers and perhaps

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Holiday Nibbles

By VIRGINIA PELLEY Times correspondent

If cooking and baking isn’t your thing, you can still give the thoughtful and useful gift of delicious food. Head to Mazzaro’s Italian Market (mazzarosmarket.com, 2909 22nd Ave., St. Petersburg) and gift loved ones (and co-workers) with a basket of gourmet sauces, jams, tapenades, wine or gourmet coffee. And if you need something sweet to bring to a holiday party, pick up a classic Italian rum cake, tiramisu or cannoli.

But if you’re game to whip up holiday cheer in your own kitchen, here are two recipes for treats with international flair that travel well and are easy and inexpensive to make yourself. Wrapping biscotti in colorful fabrics or scarves is a fun alternative to Tupperware, or pick up some vintage tea or coffee cups at Amanda Austin Antiques and Collectibles (358 Main St., Dunedin) and give biscotti in a keepsake. Or pick up one of these new cookbooks to give along with your delectable creations from them.

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Almond Biscotti

Makes 30 1 1/4 cups who le almonds, lig htly toasted 1 3/4 cups (8 3/ 4 ounces) all-p ur pose flour 2 teaspoons ba king powder 1/4 teaspoon sa lt 2 large eggs, pl us 1 large egg white beaten 1 cup (7 ounces ) sugar 4 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted and 1 1/2 teaspoon s almond extrac t 1/2 teaspoon va nilla extract Vegetable oil sp ray

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 325 degrees.

Using a ruler and penc il, draw two 8by 3 inch rectangles, spac ed 4 inches apar t, on piece of parchment pa per. Grease baki ng sheet and place parc hment on it, m arked side down.

2. Pulse 1 cup al monds in food processor until coarsely ch opped, 8 to 10 pu lses; transfer to bow l and set aside.

Process remaining 1/4 cu p almonds in no w-empty food processor until finely grou nd, about 45 seconds. Ad d flour, baking powder and salt; proces s to combine, ab out 15 seconds. Transfe r flour mixture to second bowl. Process tw o eggs in now-e mpty food processor until lightened in color bout nning, y comelted a and 0 seconds.

Test Kitchen. .

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Transfer egg m ixture to bowl.

Sprinkle half of flour m ixture over egg mixture and, using spat ula, gently fold until just combined. Add remaining flour mixture and chopped al monds and gent ly fold until just combi ned.

3. Divide doug h in half. Using floured hands, form ea ch half into 8by 3-inch rectangle, usin g lines on parc hment as guide. Spray ea ch loaf lightly w ith oil spray. Using ru bber spatula lig htly coated with oil spray, smooth tops an d sides of loaves. Gently brush tops of lo aves with egg white beat en with salt .

4. Bake until lo aves are golden and just beginning to crack on top, 25 to 30 minutes, rotatin g sheet halfway through baking. Let loav es cool on shee t for 30 minutes, then tra nsfer to cutting board.

Using serrated knife, slice each loaf on slight bias into 1/2-inch-thick pi eces. Set wire rack on rim med baking sh eet. Space slices, cut side do wn, about 1/4 in ch apart on prepared ra ck. Bake until cr isp and golden brown on both sides, about 35 minutes, flippin g slices halfway through baking. Let cool completely befo re serving. (Biscotti ca n be stored at room temperature for up to one month.)

Thursday, November 22, 2018

Mango Amba i

, and chopped d rd seeds 2 teaspoons musta nd turmeric ou gr ns 1½ teaspoo cumin 1 teaspoon ground Aleppo pepper ed sh cru 1 teaspoon fenugreek 1 teaspoon ground paprika 1 teaspoon smoked Kosher salt Lemon juice

Combine all th the salt and le saucepan and en heat, stirring frequ mango mixtur 20 min Let the add sa juice. R tainer

2018 by M from Israeli Soul © Amba is excerpted sico. Reproduced Per l Credits: Classic Mango hae Mic by 8 tography © 201 erved. and Steven Cook. Pho rcourt. All rights res oughton Mifflin Ha Rux Martin Books/H

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Gift 38

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Fun!

By VIRGINIA PELLEY, Times correspondent

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Winter Village

Thursday, November 22, 2018

Ella’s Black Friday Alternative

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Un-Commonly Artsy: Historic Downtown Brooksville Arts Market

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A Very Merry Market

11th Annual Holizaar

Holiday Hoopla!

Annual Lutz Arts & Crafts Show

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PuNk RoCk Holiday Flea Market

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Country Christmas and Vintage Market

Largo Holiday Gift Market

Holiday Stroll

A Holiday Harbor

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t f i G e h t e v i G of Time

NIA PELLEY d

t

Feeling the warmth of the holiday spirit can inspire us to share it with others and remind us of the importance of giving back. Instead of buying gifts for family, friends or neighbors that they might not need, give your time by mowing someone’s lawn, clearing out their rain gutters or offering to babysit.

If you’re thinking about volunteering in your community, remember there are benefits for you as well as your chosen organization. Volunteer work helps people make new friends and connections, boosts self-esteem and even reduces stress. The holiday season is a busy time for many nonprofits and charity organizations, so it’s a great time to reach out and lend a hand. Here are some local organizations that could use your help during the holidays and throughout the year.

Share your love for animals Families can help increase dogs’ chances of adoption by socializing them during the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center’s Holiday ROMP! Dec. 2 from 2 to 6 p.m. in Tampa.

ROMP! In Yard Socializers learn to read dogs’ level of desired interaction and socialize them accordingly,

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Lend a hand up to families in need

Since 1994, the Mattie Williams Neighborhood Family Center (mwnfc.org) in Safety Harbor has provided resources such as food and clothing, family support (such as financial assistance with utility bills, free income tax assistance and help applying for WIC and food stamps), youth programs, career assistance and adult education to members of the community. Volunteers are needed to help with the reading program, lead performing arts education, community outreach and providing administrative assistance.

You don’t have to possess construction expertise to help Habitat for Humanity of East and Central Pasco County (ephabitat.org) in its mission. The Dade City nonprofit affiliate needs volunteers to help clean and test appliances, process donations and manage the store, help staff and photograph organization fundraising events and help in the program office doing data entry, answering phones, greeting walk-ins and managing social media. Email volunteer@habitatpasco.org for more information.

Metropolitan Ministries needs 10,000 volunteers during the holiday season to help distribute food and toys to needy families. People are needed to help sort donations, stock shelves, work as parking lot attendants and provide childcare and hospitality at locations in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Polk counties but particularly in Pasco County. Bilingual Spanish-speaking volunteers are also needed. Visit metromin.org/holiday-central/volunteeropportunities to find out more.

ECHO of Brandon (echofl. org), an organization aimed at ending hunger, provides food, job training and finance education for people in need. Volunteers can work in the community garden; help sew, bead and cut fabric for ECHO Handmade projects; or assist in ECHO’s job coaching programs. Attend one of the new volunteer orientation sessions that are usually held the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. to find out their current needs.

Help the homeless

playing fetch, guiding them in a walk or just sitting quietly and petting them. This reduces kennel stress and keeps the dogs happy and in top adoptable form.

The community is also welcome to attend Holiday Enrichment Dec. 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. Bring an item from the Holiday Wish List for shelter dogs and cats and help distribute them to the animals. Volunteers (16 or older) can sign up for these opportunities at HCFLgov.net/GetEmHome or visit HCFLgov.net/Pets or email PRCVolunteer@HCFLGov.net for information about ongoing volunteer opportunities.

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Friendly, encouraging volunteers 16 and older are an important part of the compassionate service provided by Trinity CafĂŠ (trinitycafe.org/volunteer), a restaurant that has provided meals for the homeless in Tampa since 2001. Share your time as a table host or volunteer to greet guests, serve food, pour drinks or clean up after meals.

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Homeless Empowerment Program (HEP) in Clearwater (hepempowers.org/get-involved) offers many volunteer opportunities for various areas of interest and expertise, including working at the thrift store, providing medical education, filing and general office help, preparing and serving meals, picking up food donations, painting and carpentry and tutoring and homework assistance. You can also focus on helping veterans by providing budgeting assistance or transportation or leading an athletic class.

Support sisterhood Named after the novel by Anita Diamant, the Red Tent Women’s Initiative (redtentproject.com) provides mentoring and support for incarcerated women in Pinellas County and also helps them create marketable art.

Volunteers help with Red Tent’s education programs on topics such as trauma resolution, financial literacy, anger management and mindfulness but help solicit and collect donations and help create fliers and other

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written materials to get the word out. They’re always looking for donations of blank composition books, crochet materials, colored pencils and markers, fiber filling for pillows and other craft materials.

Help honor our veterans Become a docent at the Veterans Memorial Park and Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum in Tampa (hillsboroughcounty.org), volunteer as an educational tour guide, assist during events or help beautify the park.

Holiday-based nonprofit Veterans Alternative provides combat veterans and their families with programs designed to reduce post-traumatic stress and trauma via innovative programs such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy, yoga, equine therapy, massage therapy, mindfulness and TRX training and conditioning. Fill out their volunteer form at veteransalternative.org/become-a-volunteer to find out how you can help.

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Help foster inclusiveness in the community A President’s Volunteer Service Award certifying organization, St. Petersburg-based Metro Tampa Bay provides a range of support services for LGBT youth and transgender members of the community including counseling, support groups, bus passes, an LGBT Welcome Center and the Metro Thrift and Gift store. Get in touch online via metrotampabay.org/volunteers to learn more about how you can contribute.

Make an environmental impact Help clean and beautify the community by volunteering with Keep America Beautiful local affiliate Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful. Volunteers are needed to pick up trash and debris, plant trees and staff events. Visit keeptampabaybeautiful.org or email info@keeptbb. org for more information.

Thursday, November 22, 2018

G

g l U y r O u o n Y et h

By TOM WUCKOVICH, Times corres

Often, the holidays are a serious time, especially in when it comes to gift giving. Many, if not all, of us agonize over the choice of a gift for family, friends or loved ones. There may be a way, however, to lighten the mood of the Christmas season while achieving the goal of buying just the right gift to fit the occasion. In this case, all hail the ugly Christmas sweater!

took until the 1980s for the widespread adulation, due in part to the sweaters’ rev television sitcoms and the a in holiday film classics such Lampoon’s Christmas Vacat

How did this fascination with the ugly Christmas sweater begin?

Wearing ugly sweaters as a statement didn’t take hold millennials started hosting sweater parties in the 2000 sweater party has been rep in Vancouver, British Colum Ballroom in 2002. Accordin Sweater Party Book: The De Your Ugly On, Chris Boyd a responsible for the first-eve party event.

Christmas-themed sweaters made their first notable appearance in the 1950s, when the holidays were becoming increasingly commercialized. The so-called “jingle bell sweaters” were a modest success, but it

The festivity has since evolved into a cultural phenomenon that is the central theme of many holiday parties, and not wearing an ugly sweater is the major faux pas of the holiday season.

Fashion cycles come and go, eventually circling back around to become “in” again. But there are times when attire can be both outdated and trendy at the same time and have such widespread appeal that it bridges the generation gap. The ugly sweater, which reached the height of its popularity in the 1980s, is one such item.

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for it, or you can get one cheap at a local thrift shop.

That’s the beauty of shopping for one.

No one really knows for certain why it’s so popular.

What we do know is that it is as stylish today as it was way back when your grandpa wore it.

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s t f i G l a c o Best L

for kids VIVINETTO, Times correspon

hopping for kids and teens this holiday season? Find exciting toys, d ontrolled drones and more at local shops that cater to the young and playful.

Give the gift of comfort to the babies in your life with a colorful Baltic amber teething necklace ($25 to $54), available online at the Tampa-based Green Mommy Store (greenmommystore. om). The necklaces contain succinic cid, a natural analgesic used by ome cultures for centuries to provide ocalized pain relief. “You can put the necklaces on as soon as that umbilical ord is cut. I like to put them on before baby gets grabby around 3 or 4 months old because then it becomes n extension of their body,” says shop owner Shannon Green, who explains he necklaces are meant to fit snugly nd comfortably around the neck – nd not to be chewed on.

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Growing Up

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What child doesn’t love dolls? The soft, pastel-colored Doll Kind dolls ($59) and Good Deed Fairies ($29) at Silly Dillys, 4203 El Prado Blvd., Suite A, Tampa (sillydillys.com), are not only fun to play with, they help teach little ones about kindness, love and gratitude. Made by Kind Culture Co., the dolls come equipped with accessories meant to inspire goodhearted behavior. Each Doll Kind doll comes with wooden tokens inscribed with thoughtful messages for kids to share with friends, while each Good Deed Fairy brings along a tiny bag of scrolls where kids can record their good deeds.

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Lovers of tabletop games will flip for the Smash-Up game series ($34.99) at Emerald City Comics, 4902 113th Ave., Clearwater (emeraldcitycomics.com). Players ages 12 and up build fierce factions out of pirates, ninja, robots, zombies and more in order to crush their opponents and take over the world. Each combination of characters creates a different, zanier experience. Players can also collect themed expansion sets featuring new characters, like That ‘70s Expansion Set ($24.99), which features truckers, vigilantes, disco dancers and kung fu fighters.

Also at Emerald City Comics: Funko Pop! vinyl figures ($6.99 and up) make great stocking stuffers. The collectible figures are created in the likenesses of pop culture characters from comics, TV, movies, video games, cartoons, and more. In December, Funko will release a new line of Aquaman Pop! figures to coincide with the release of Warner Bros. Pictures’ new Aquaman movie, based on the beloved DC Comics superhero.

Thursday, November 22, 2018

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Phil’s Hobby Shop

Peace Tree Trading Post

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Got teen fashionistas on your holiday list? Treat them to a pair of WearWood sunglasses ($35) at Nancy’s Fancy, 342 Main St., Dunedin (nancys-fancy.com). The stylish glasses, made of attractive natural woods including walnut, rosewood and bamboo, are hand-crafted by a small Minneapolis company that promises to plant two trees for every pair purchased.

Free-spirited gals love Uno de 50 jewelry, featuring handcrafted sterling silver pieces with a bohemian flair. “It’s a very popular line,” says shop owner Nancy Carney. Choose from colorful beaded bangles, charm bracelets, chunky chain necklaces and eye-popping earrings ($89 and up).

Bedtime can be fun time with the whimsical White Bunny Slippers ($24.99) available at the Brooksville-based online store K Farms Natural Gifts (shopkfarms.com.)

The cheerful, comfy slippers come in a sweet bunny-face design and fit most girls’ and women’s sizes up to 9 ½.

Thursday, November 22, 2018

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t r a Sm

shipping tips LEY

Few things are more fun than receiving presents in the mail. But if you’ve shipped packages during the holiday season before, you know how nightmarish it can be to get those thoughtful gifts to their recipients. A little know-how can make the gift-shipping process much smoother, though, so read on for some expert guidance from Enola C. Rice, Tampa spokesperson for the United States Postal Service.

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Choose a sturdy vessel

Never guess ZIP codes

Package presents in boxes meant for shipping, not gift boxes. The USPS also recommends not reusing boxes, as they tend to weaken during the shipping process. If you don’t have a strong box at home, don’t wing it and try mailing gifts in a smushy, damaged one. Remember that Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express envelopes and boxes are free at your local post office.

No ZIP code on a package is actually better than the wrong one, according to the USPS. But prevent problems with your package by looking up the right ZIP code at usps.gov; click on Quick Tools to find the lookup.

Remove batteries Packages that tick or make any sort of noise will be flagged and scrutinized by the USPS for security reasons, so ship batteries separately, preferably in their original packaging. In addition, lithium batteries are considered hazardous materials, so check usps.com for shipping restrictions.

Size matters A box that’s overstuffed might burst open, and your gifts could get knocked around and battered during shipping in a box that’s too big. So picking an appropriately sized box is important. Your box should have just enough space to include some packing materials (such as peanuts or newspaper) for cushioning. Also, check the bottom of your box, which should have the maximum weight it can hold printed on it.

Tape well Use packing tape, not scotch tape on a box you intend to ship through the mail. It’s also smart to tape along the boxes seams; tape should form the letter “H” on the bottom when you’re done.

Thursday, November 22, 2018

Include an extra mailing label inside the package If your package gets wet or damaged and the mailing address becomes illegible, postal workers can still deliver it if you include an additional mailing label inside the box.

Skip the line Larger post offices have self-service kiosks where you can weigh packages, purchase postage and deposit your package in the mail. You can also print your own labels at home by using the Click-N-Ship option at usps.com/ship.

And the USPS will pick up your package for free if you schedule it online at usps.com/pickup.

Be an early bird The post office is usually less busy earlier in the day, Rice says, so hop in line as early as you can manage. Rice also recommends checking usps.com before you go for tips to ensure your packages arrive by the holiday you’re aiming for.

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a t t o G Get Away!

By VIRGINIA PELLEY Times correspondent If it seems like someone on your gift list already has everything and another sweater or candle is unlikely to wow him or her, you might wonder if you should send them on a trip as a gift instead. The short answer is yes, you can gift loved ones an amazing, unforgettable vacation. But travel experts say it’s wise to exercise caution and get some help from a pro before blowing a lot of money on a thoughtful but nonrefundable trip.

“It can be tricky in that you’d have to pick specific dates of travel to get the best price, which will be a problem if they can't go then,” says Diane Ross, a certified travel agent, master cruise counselor and owner of Kingsbridge Travel (kingsbridgetravel.com) in Tampa.

Many trip packages, such as a cruise, require a deposit in advance that might not be refundable if the recipient can’t go. And some people might be tempted to buy a trip that sounds awesome to them but that might not appeal to others or be realistic for whatever reason.

y y j y, p in a travel guidebook they can use to help them pick the trip that sounds best. That way, they have something to open, which makes the gift of a trip more fun. Recipients then meet with the travel agent to pick the best destination and time for them to go and other details. Gifting a trip this way also makes it easier on you, because the travel agent will deal with getting their passport numbers if they’re traveling internationally and making all the transportation and lodging reservations.

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Which is why, as tempting as it might be to make the whole trip a surprise, it’s better to let the person have some input when it comes to the details.

That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the fun and ease of a gift vacation.

Ross suggests calling a travel agent who can suggest great trips that realistically fit your budget and then giving a gift certificate to the travel agency. The certificate will specify the total amount you want to spend on their trip. ( ou can keep the amount a secret from the recipient, and the travel agent can let the recipient, know if what they want to do exceeds it, but Ross recommends ust letting them in on the total amount of the gift.)

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Thursday, November 22, 2018

Another option for vacation gift giving is planning a holiday trip for you and your partner instead of giving each other a bunch of presents. Note that many of the same cautions still apply. A partner skittish about flying or leaving pets home alone for a long time might feel more anxious than joyful about the idea of spending a couple weeks abroad, so feel him or her out before buying expensive plane tickets as a surprise. If you’re game to forego shopping and skip town over the holidays instead, here are 5 ideas for unforgettable winter trips: If money is of little concern, take advantage of Tampa International Airport’s new direct flights to beautiful, progressive and kid-friendly Iceland for an unforgettable holiday getaway. Visiting in winter is less crowded, cheaper and these colder months are the season to see the Northern Lights and explore breathtaking natural glacier ice caves.

Within Florida Just a two-hour drive north, Ocala is the horse capital of the world, near beautiful Rainbow Springs and Silver Springs. Stay at the Hilton Ocala, a Florida-certified-green hotel that offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor and indoor fitness with a heated pool, jogging track, 24hour fitness center and six acres of tranquil grounds dotted with oak trees. Arrange an evening carriage ride with Buddy, the hotel’s resident Clydesdale, and golf at Wildwood, an 18-hole public golf course. There’s also a bat house sanctuary to visit near Lake Alice, and downtown Ocala has great dining and bar options.

Roadtrip back to Old Florida by visiting Wakulla Springs, just south of Tallahassee. Stay at the historic, quaint and affordable Lodge at Wakulla Springs, where you can enjoy hiking, birding, boating, kayaking,t and swimming (the spring is 68 degrees year round) right on the property.

You can also cave dive at nearby Indian Springs.

Out of state Crisp air, breathtaking mountain views and a charming downtown full of great restaurants are a short flight or 10-hour drive away in Asheville, North Carolina. In December, you can tour the Biltmore House by candlelight and see the elaborate holiday decorations throughout the historic estate (tickets include complimentary wine tasting). And although much of the Appalachian Trail is impassible in winter, there are plenty of awesome hikes to go on this time of year, and the absence of leaves on the trees means views from the Blue Ridge Mountains are at their most spectacular. See magnificent waterfalls on the family- and dog-friendly Moore Cove Falls Trails and check out the short Bearwallow Mountain Trail less than 20 miles from downtown Asheville.

International The state of Oaxaca has repaired much of the damage from earthquakes, so it’s a great time to experience this culturally diverse part of southeastern Mexico rich in history and public art.

During Christmas week in Oaxaca City, locals celebrate La Noche de Robános, or Night of the Radishes, an art festival in which artists carve oversized radishes into figures and scenes. Last year they celebrated its 120th anniversary. Oaxaca City also boasts centuries-old buildings such as the Baroque Santo Domingo Church, which opened in 1731. You can also tour Oaxaca’s traditional mescal distilleries, and if you want to get away from the city, stay in Puerto Escondido, a gorgeous beachside town known for big-wave surfing and award-winning art galleries.

Thursday, November 22, 2018

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Thursday, November 22, 2018