Christmas 2019 is often a time that many of us look back to and remember as the last time everything was “normal”. Granted, we’ve come a long way since then, but collectively as a society we have adopted a new “slang”. Spending months in isolation, then being restricted as to where we can go, being forced to wear masks, and having the constant suspicion that the person next to us may be sick changes a lot. This year, I will be sharing a holiday gift guide in accordance with the new culture society has adopted since the beginning of the pandemic.

1. Homemade Christmas cookies or baked goods

For the longest time, we lived in fear and avoidance of those around us due to this contagious ailment. Now that there is a vaccine as well as a reduction in cases, we can now breathe more easily. Accepting Christmas cookies from a friend would have been a risk a year ago, but now for the first time since 2019, baking and accepting Christmas treats is simply an enjoyable experience for both parties involved.

2. Concert ticket

Tangible gifts are always a pleasure to receive, but spending months in isolation has taught many of us that as great as material items are, experiences such as seeing artists live cannot be replaced. Now that artists are hosting live performances again, it is the perfect opportunity to purchase a pair of tickets for you, a friend or loved one’s favorite artist.

3. Airplane ticket to visit a friend or family member

It has been years since many of us have seen friends or family members because of travel bans implemented or a reluctance to travel during the pandemic. Now that more countries have opened their borders and that airports and hotels are less of a risk, the holiday season is the best time to surprise a loved one who is only a plane flight away.

4. Noise-cancelling headphones

Many of us learned to value the time alone we were able to spend as a result of quarantine. Noise-cancelling headphones can transport you back to your peaceful room, no matter where you are.

5. Home gym equipment

For the socially distant fitness aficionados in our lives who are not completely comfortable returning to the gym, home gym equipment is a perfect present. This can include anything from a set of weights to a Peloton, so this very versatile gift can fit any price range.

6. Suitcase or backpack

This gift is not only practical, but it also fits the theme of post COVID-19 as many of us will be traveling for the first time in two years during this holiday season. This gift is not only versatile, but can fit a variety of style and price ranges.

7. Disposable camera

Not only are disposable photos trendy, but being socially isolated for so long taught us to value the people in our lives and the memories we create with them. Disposable photos are the perfect way to capture people and moments

These past two years have truly been a wild ride, but we are finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Although material items can have meaning and value, it is the people in our lives and the experience we create with them that truly make life worth living and wonderful to emulate through your Christmas gifts this year.