This notion set me up to assume I’ll never be able to buy anybody a present they’ll be happy with because I figure whatever I buy them will end up in the charity shop. As a result, I usually end up buying people experiences or holidays. In my opinion, spending money on travel is the only purchase that makes you richer. People usually end up forgetting what they unwrapped but they never forget experiences, so I’m all over that.

If you’re not sold on the idea, then hopefully these suggestions will win you over. The best bit? You don’t have to worry about last-minute delivery because a code is sent directly to your inbox INSTANTLY! That means you could literally pay for all your shopping on Christmas Day, and nobody would know! Thanks, BuyaGift.com

1. Charbonnel et Walker Chocolate Afternoon Tea for Two at the May Fair Hotel

For an award-winning afternoon tea with a twist look no further than this central London hot spot! The May Fair Hotel has taken the traditional British afternoon tea and added a delicious chocolate injection of flavour. Accompanying a delicious range of sandwiches will be such tempting treats as doughnuts with chocolate sauce, chocolate scones, tiramisu and flourless chocolate and orange cake, plus a tempting assortment of Charbonnel et Walker truffles, making this signature afternoon tea a sure hit for anyone with decadent tastes!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/food-and-drink/charbonnel-et-walker-chocolate-afternoon-tea-for-two-at-the-may-fair-hotel-br-10762188.aspx

2. Hotel Chocolat’s Children’s Chocolate Workshop for Two

A chocolate workshop is a dream come true for any child with a sweet tooth. At Hotel Chocolat’s cocoa vaults your children can discover the enticing world of cocoa. A welcome drink will kick off the workshop alongside an introduction to the experience before the real fun begins! They’ll be able to get stuck into a memorable chocolate decorating session with the guidance of an expert. Once they’ve completed their mouth-watering masterpiece, they’ll package it up in a beautiful box, ready to take away and feast upon at home!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/food-and-drink/hotel-chocolat-s-bean-to-bar-chocolate-making-experience-for-two-br-10747011.aspx

3. Thames Rockets Powerboating Experience for Two

Winner of England’s Family Friendly Attraction of the Year 2017, Thames Rockets guarantees an unforgettable day in the capital. Stepping aboard a light and high-speed powerboat, you will receive a unique experience that you will want to relive again and again. Taking you on an adventure down the river, you can sit and admire all the iconic attractions, from the Tate Modern to the London Eye and Canary Wharf. As you glide through the water, you will receive fascinating facts and commentary from your knowledgeable skipper.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/adventure/thames-rockets-powerboating-experience-for-two-br-10175586.aspx

4. Tree Top Adventure for Two Adults at Go Ape

Explore the canopy of some of the UK’s most beautiful woodland with this fun-packed Tree Top Adventure. You’ll be kitted out with a harness and briefed for safety before taking on an exhilarating range of obstacles, from adrenaline-fuelled zip wires and thrilling Tarzan swings to challenging crossings and tricky tunnels. Every Go Ape site has been thoughtfully situated in a stunning forest location – the ideal setting for an exciting day out you’ll never forget.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/adventure/days-out/tree-top-adventure-for-two-adults-at-go-ape-br-10145806.aspx

5. Feed The Big Cats By Hand at Paradise Wildlife Park

An animal enthusiast’s dream, this experience will have you getting very well acquainted with the lions and tigers at Paradise Wildlife Park, as you join them for feeding time! You will be safely behind the fence throughout while you hand feed them under the close watchful eye of the big cat handlers. Your voucher also includes entrance to the park, ,so take the full day to visit all the other animals and attractions.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/days-out/feed-the-big-cats-by-hand-at-paradise-wildlife-park-weekdays-br-1185306.aspx

6. Penguin Feeding Experience at Drusillas Zoo Park

Expect some unique characters, fantastic photo opportunities, and unforgettable memories from a Penguin encounter at Drusillas Zoo Park in East Sussex. On arrival, you will be greeted by a zookeeper who will take you to the Penguin enclosure and introduce you to these magnificent creatures. You’ll quickly see their individual personalities for yourself as you get up close to the Penguins and are allowed to feed them some tasty treats. Remember your camera, as there will be plenty of photo opportunities to capture this unique experience!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/days-out/penguin-feeding-experience-at-drusillas-zoo-park-br-11872149.aspx

7. Vietnamese Street Food Class at The Jamie Oliver Cookery School

Step into a whole new world of bold, fresh flavours with this Vietnamese culinary expedition at The Jamie Oliver Cookery School. You’ll try your hand at such street food classics as beef pho, delicious prawn and vegetable summer rolls and pork balls sandwiched between baby gem leaves. This appetizing array of aromatic delights is topped off with a beautifully zingy dipping sauce that will bring your taste buds to life. Take a tantalizing taste of the Vietnamese streets back to your kitchen!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/food-and-drink/vietnamese-street-food-class-at-the-jamie-oliver-cookery-school-br-10763379.aspx

8. 3 Hour Artisan Cheese Making Class at The Smart School of Cookery

Have Edam good time learning the techniques needed to make a variety of different artisan cheeses. This 3-hour cheese making course will enable you to create delicious varieties from a selection including mozzarella, ricotta, paneer, goats cheese and soft cheese with chives and chilli. These gateway cheeses will

inevitably generate cravings for a greater buzz, so you’ll also learn the theory behind making hard cheese, as well as how to make bread from some of the by-products.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/food-and-drink/3-hour-artisan-cheese-making-class-at-the-smart-school-of-cookery-br-10769965.aspx

9. Three Course Meal with Prosecco and Show Tickets at Proud Embankment

It’s showtime! Enjoy a night of glitz and glamour at the Proud Embankment in London. Mark an important occasion in style with a delicious Pan-Asian three-course meal and dazzling cabaret show.

Celebrate and toast the occasion with a glass of prosecco and prepare to be amazed as the Proud Embankment hosts a variety of shows, from circus nights to classic burlesque.

When you imagine your night out, think Moulin-Rouge or Chicago style! Enjoy mid-air acrobatics, daring fire acts, cheeky strip teases and much more. The magnificent two-story building is located beneath Waterloo Bridge, close to the prominent West End of London.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/days-out/food-and-drink/three-course-meal-with-prosecco-and-show-tickets-at-proud-embankment-br-10777789.aspx

10. Upper Circle Theatre Show and 3 Course Meal at a Contemporary London Restaurant

Enjoy a perfect evening in London’s West End with this theatre show plus a dining experience for two. Take your pick of hit theatrical favourites such as the terrifying Woman in Black or the enduring Wicked. From fine contemporary Mexican and Peruvian cuisine to classic British cuisine accompanied with wine, the dining options will also leave your spoilt for choice.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/days-out/food-and-drink/upper-circle-theatre-show-with-three-course-meal-and-wine-for-two-special-offer-br-11857426.aspx

11. Blue Skies Helicopter Tour with Bubbly for Two

Take to the skies with a loved one during this breath-taking helicopter tour. The two of you will be able to marvel the magnificent countryside below as your pilot points out the local landmarks, all from the dizzying height of 1000 feet. There’ll be ample opportunities to take some wonderful photos, so don’t forget your camera! Afterwards you can reminisce on your experience and enjoy a glass of bubbly each while you compare who spotted the most landmarks.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/flying-experiences/blue-skies-helicopter-tour-with-bubbly-for-two-br-10454672.aspx

12. Champagne Balloon Flight for Two

Swap the car for the most magical means of transport, a hot air balloon! You and a friend will reach a height of 2000 feet as you soar over a beautiful location of your choice in the early hours of the morning. Prepare to be amazed by the mesmerising sunrise, valleys, quaint villages and endless fields below. Then it’s up, up and away into the serene sky for an hour ride with a glass of champagne.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/flying-experiences/sunrise-balloon-flight-with-champagne-for-two-uk-wide-br-1044135.aspx

13. Spa Break with Dinner and Private Hot Tub at Three Horseshoes Country Inn

Head to the picturesque countryside of Staffordshire for a relaxing spa retreat designed to soothe your body and mind. You’ll be able to make full use of the Mill Wheel spa facilities during your stay and you’ll both enjoy a 25 minute Beach Hut treatment. If this taste of relaxation isn’t quite enough, you’ll receive 20% discount on any other spa treatments you wish to book during your stay, and you can also take a dip in your very own hot tub in your private garden! Your stay includes a delicious three course meal, as well as breakfast before you check out. You’ll leave feeling relaxed and thoroughly pampered.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/pampering/short-breaks/spa-break-with-dinner-and-private-hot-tub-at-three-horseshoes-country-inn-br-10972417.aspx

14. Two Night Tree House Escape for Two

Find yourself elevated from the ground exposed to the majestic views of birds, greenery and trees. Take the stress out of camping and stay in a luxurious treehouse. The designer unit sleeps two adults and two under 16s, and has comfortable beds, vintage wooden furniture, edgy cushions, tea lights and lanterns. There is an ensuite composting toilet, so no stumbling around the woods in the dark looking for the loo! There are beaches nearby, and with the town of Machynlleth just a short drive away, you’re not stranded too far from civilisation if you run out of cornflakes… or beer!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/short-breaks/two-night-tree-house-escape-for-two-br-10910784.aspx

15. Quad Bike Thrill

Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned quad biker, this fantastic experience will cater to your needs. Whichever course you choose, your dedicated instructor will greet you with an introduction to the vehicles. You’ll then get the chance to try the quad bikes in a more relaxed environment on the training course to hone your skills. It’s then out onto the more challenging circuit for a rally style session, as you pick up speed and put yourself to the test!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/driving-experiences/two-hour-quad-bike-thrill-in-kent-br-10250149.aspx

16. Supercar Thrill with Free High-Speed Passenger Ride

Feel the thrill of driving one of the biggest, loudest, fastest names in motoring with this incredible supercar experience. From a stunning Lamborghini Gallardo and a fierce Ferrari to a suave Aston Martin and a nippy Nissan GTR, you’ll be simply spoilt for choice. Following a thorough safety briefing, you’ll take to the tarmac for six adrenaline-fuelled miles in your chosen vehicle. With hundreds of horsepower in your hands, it’s a driving experience you’ll never forget!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/driving-experiences/supercar-thrill-with-free-high-speed-passenger-ride-special-offer-br-10258005.aspx

17. One Night Spa Break with Dinner and Wine at Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa offers a wonderful setting for an overnight escape. It’s time to throw on a fluffy robe and enjoy a little slice of heaven as you revel in two blissful hours in the thermal suite, before taking advantage of unlimited use of the leisure facilities. Take relaxation to the next level with a soothing 25-minute treatment. In the evening, you and your loved one will be served a two-course gourmet meal, accompanied by a crisp glass of wine, and on the morning of your departure, you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/pampering/short-breaks/one-night-spa-break-with-dinner-and-wine-at-formby-hall-golf-resort-and-spa-br-10950346.aspx

18. Relaxation Spa Day with Lunch for Two at Whittlebury Hall

In need of a good catch-up with a friend? What better way to spend some together than with a gloriously relaxing spa day at a stylish hotel! Located in Northamptonshire, Whittlebury Hall will provide some much-needed pampering for the day, with full use of the leisure club – including the swimming pool, sauna, and steam room – and the amazing heat and ice experiences, designed to invigorate the body. From the ice cave to the aromatherapy crystal steam, your skin will be left soft, smooth and hydrated. What’s more, a sumptuous two-course buffet lunch is included.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/pampering/relaxation-spa-day-with-lunch-for-two-at-whittlebury-hall-br-10540771.aspx

19. 60 Minute Golf Lesson with a PGA Professional for Two

With a full 60 minutes with a PGA professional, you’ll have no problem making a hole in one! You and your guest will be able to gain expert advice from a professional with years of experience and skill. You’ll be able to dramatically improve your golfing technique as well as nurturing your natural skill at the game. Thanks to many brilliant locations across the UK and over 100 PGA professionals ready to teach you everything they know you’ll be completely spoilt for choice!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/days-out/60-minute-golf-lesson-with-a-pga-professional-br-11815986.aspx

20. Indoor Surfing Experience for One

Want to feel the wind in your hair as you surf 20ft waves in dangerous shark-infested waters? No? Neither do we! Now you can enjoy the thrill of surfing in the safe and controlled environment of the FlowRider machine, located in Bedfordshire. Receive expert guidance from an experienced instructor as you jump onto a specially designed board that skims across the continuous four-inch wave. The edges are fully padded and the sea itself is made of a special soft membrane ride surface, which means no matter how many times you fall you’ll walk away without feeling sore! You’ll be part of a group of up to 12 and take it in turns to ride the wave.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/adventure/days-out/indoor-surfing-experience-for-one-br-10118923.aspx

21. Predator Adventures Seabreacher Experience for One

Strap in and hold tight for this whirlwind of a ride! Board the supercharged Seabreacher Watercraft at one of the world’s most extreme and revolutionary water sports! These incredibly unique semi-submersible vessels boast a 300HP engine, reaching speeds of up to 60mph on the water’s surface and can even dive below at up to 40mph! Not one for the faint hearted, you will leap, roll and dive, turning doughnuts and 90 degrees angle side rolls across the water, as your expert driver takes you on an adrenaline ride on the Thames.

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/adventure/predator-adventures-seabreacher-experience-for-two-br-10169612.aspx

22. Bungee Jump Experience

Call yourself an adrenaline junkie? Then get stuck into this amazing bungee jumping experience for one. Take a deep breath, close your eyes and take the leap of a lifetime as you fall towards the ground below. The jump may only take a matter of moments, but those memories that will last a good deal longer! You can even purchase a video or pictures of your experience so you can prove to your mates (and yourself!) that you really did it!

https://www.buyagift.co.uk/adventure/bungee-jump-experience-special-offer-br-10169078.aspx

The post 22 Last-Minute Christmas Gift Ideas For The Person That Has Everything appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

Let’s start with the kitchen. This room will arguably be the most used room during the festive period, so it needs to be able to withstand the festivities and constant use. So, not only should you have the most practical worktops to make the Christmas dinner seem like clockwork, but the flooring should be given some serious thought.

Winter can bring cold, wet, or even snowy weather, so people trawling in and out of the house can leave floor surfaces dirty and grubby. But, homeowners that already have tiles in their home, will tell you that they are the most thankful for installing tiles in their kitchen to make maintenance minimal.

A quick sweep and the majority of the dirt is gone! Kairos kitchen tiles by Collinson Tiles are a full-bodied porcelain tile that is easy to manage and will compliment any existing work surfaces. Neutral in colour, it means you won’t have to spend hours changing the colour of your walls to suit, which saves both time and money – crucial for the run-up to Christmas.

Another important room in the home is the living area. There is not much better than a cozy living space with an open fire, but unfortunately, not all of us are fortunate to have a fire or can afford to have one installed. Instead, you should focus on the things you can control. For example, this comfy Classic Tartan Club chair by YOO Studio adds texture, warmth, and style in a heartbeat.

If you want to add warmth elsewhere in your living room, then installing hardwood flooring in a dark oak can really help give your space a feeling of comfort and cordiality. Similar to tiles, this surface is easy to maintain compared to carpets. Although, you shouldn’t end your improvements at hardwood flooring – compliment the dark flooring with a white or cream rug.

A shaggy rug is a stand-out room accessory that will look beautiful laid on your hardwood flooring and next to the tartan chair. Making your home feel homely and warm in time for Christmas doesn’t need to be a chore, and with a few small additions to your existing décor such as these adorable natural decorations from the Personalised Gifts Shop, and transform your living space to make it more practical and look great.

The post Kit Your Home Out In Time For Christmas appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

In order prepare for Christmas, it is important that you first decide what kind of decoration you want so that you do not mix all sorts of things together. Moreover, sometimes it is better to opt for less decoration as too much can drown out what you were going for originally.

The first thing to do…

First things first, you will have to clean your home before putting on any decoration as it is vital that you have a clean home and that whoever visits you will notice the festive decoration and not the mess that might be in your home.

Setting up the fairy lights

Everybody loves to put up the Christmas lights, but be careful with how you put them on as it can greatly improve the overall design or if done badly, it will ruin the whole thing. Remember to use only proper and functioning lights as they can cause fires.

Hang up some homemade decoration

Putting up Christmas decoration is not the same without some homemade sweets, and no decoration is complete without a gingerbread house. Not only does it look great, but it will smell great and it will really add Christmas charm to your home.

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  Kit Your Home Out In Time For Christmas

Bake fresh cookies

If you want your home to smell like Christmas around the clock, then make fresh batches of cookies that you and your family can enjoy at the end of the day. It will make your home smell nice, and it will be a great decoration, and it tastes great too.

Put on some Christmas music

If you have no chance of listening to carolers, then the next best thing you can do is put on some carolling music that can play in the playground, it will really set the mood and everyone will feel the Christmas spirit.

Create a warm atmosphere

One way to really enjoy the Christmas evenings next to a warm fire with your family is to use shaggy rugs in your living room; not only will it look great, but it will make your room feel even warmer and welcoming.

We’ve recently decorated our lounge to give it a cosy vibe, and I wish we’d done it sooner! We’ve got a lovely big armchair that we’ve moved from the bedroom downstairs, so we have plenty of space for when people come over at Christmas, and we’ve invested in a log burner.

Every living room should have a make-over before the festive season because so much time is spent in the lounge entertaining friends and family over the Christmas holiday. Nobody likes being stuck on the floor when they’re visiting, and you shouldn’t have to give up your seat when people come over either.

To celebrate decorating my lounge, and since it’s the run-up to Christmas, I’ve teamed up with Tub Chairs to promote their competition to win a stunning Neyland Sky Wingback Chair. The competition is open to UK residents, and you can find it here. I just wish I had more room in my living room to put this next to our fire…

Get festive with your family

It is not hard to set up Christmas decoration, but it is about tradition and doing it as a team with your family; it should be something that you and your family can enjoy greatly. Spreading the spirit is important and when guests see your decorations they should get a feeling of warmth and joy.

However, in order to properly decorate your home, you will need to make sure that you clean your house and that you de-clutter so that nothing gets in the way. Moreover, always make sure that when using electrical decorations you make sure that they are safe for use.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

The post How To Prepare Your Home For Christmas appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

My friends, family and boyfriend did incredibly well this year to make me the happiest girl in the world. My brother came down from London and we had Christmas lunch in my new house for the first time. Since I failed terribly at Blogmas, I’ve decided to jump on the bandwagon a little late and write a list of some of the lovely gifts I received this Christmas.

Fujifilm Instax pink mini film camera

Completely unexpected, my family bought me this gorgeous instant film camera in bright pink. I’m not usually a pink gal, but I fell in love with this in 2014 and had my heart on it since. This will come in handy when S and I set off on our adventure to Norway in January – but more on that soon!

Next heart embossed doormat

When you buy a house, you end up spending money on things that are quite frankly, boring. Occasionally, you forget to treat yourself to pretties for your home, when your constantly reading reviews for the best stain remover or the strongest bin liner. So, when you actually get something cute and practical – you just have to swoon! I LOVE THIS!

Merino mustard giant handknitted blanket

Handcrafted by my boyfriend, S. I’ve even got some videos knocking around of when he was at home making it for me, when I was at home – none of the wiser! It’s so warm and cosy, words cannot describe! Boy, is he good at surprises! It’s lucky, as I was on the edge of buying one myself. He’s so clever

A felt replica of Petal!

Okay, this is undoubtedly adorable – but actually very close to my heart too. I was confused when my brother said he collected my presented on Christmas morning, as it hadn’t long been finished. Much to my amusement, and shock, my ever-thoughtful brother had a felt replica of Petal commisioned by our friend Becky. Thank you so much!

Handmade in Cornwall silver stacking rings

I forgot to mention, all the gifts S got me (from stocking fillers, through to main presents) were handmade, by either him or someone else. He designed and commision a stunning set of rings to a silversmith based in Cornwall. I told you, he’s clever..

Tepee pet house

S didn’t forget Petal when he was buying handmade gifts. He picked up this awesome house for her and she absolutely loves it. This is easily one of my favourite presents of the day, and officially the best photograph of her. Waaaaa!

What did you get for Christmas?

The post Tis The Season To Be Grateful – What I Got For Christmas appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

We decided to go for a silver and white Scandinavian inspired theme. It’s pretty minimalist through the house, but the holidays wouldn’t be the same without a flocked white tree in the living room! We picked up some adorable tree decorations, scented candles from The White Company, and scattered a few pine cones around the house.

We thought we’d share a few pictures of our decks. Have you put yours up yet?

The post Scandinavian Style Christmas appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

London

If you have seen Love Actually or Bridget Jones’ Diary, you will know how picturesque a wintery London is. The streets are awash with decorations as carol singers and brass bands play some of the finest yuletide tunes – the epitome of a classic English Christmas.

Gavle

The Swedish town of Gavle may not be overly well known, but it is a fun place to take in the Christmas atmosphere. The town create a huge straw goat and parade it around the streets to welcome the festivities!

New York

When the holidays come round, New York becomes a hotspot for tourists doing their Christmas shopping, as the stores go all out to impress with window displays and decorations. Central Park also gets into the spirit by adding an ice rink to its grounds, as seen in the Home Alone 2 film.

The Philippines

With celebrations that last over 3 months, the Filipinos really know how to welcome the Christmas holidays. The main event doesn’t take place until 16th December, where locals attend nine nights of masses in the build up to Christmas, known as Simbang Gabi

Lapland

Renowned for its family friendly festivities, Lapland is the most Christmassy place you could ever wish to visit. With sledging on the slopes, rides with Rudolph and his reindeer buddies and getting to meet Old Saint Nick himself, Lapland is the perfect place to take your kids this winter.

Las Vegas

The Entertainment Capital of the World goes all out during the holidays, pull out all the stops to spread the festive cheer. The entire Vegas Strip becomes awash with lights and decorations and even the casinos take part! So grab your phone and learn a few of the games from i-Phonecasino.co.uk to become familiar with the games. The Bellagio turns its Botanic Gardens into a winter wonderland and the Venetian Hotel and Casino erects a 65 foot tree to create some festive competition for the King of the Yuletide Gambling Halls

Nuremberg

Nuremberg’s major Christmas event is its famed markets (or the Nürnberger Christkindlesmarkt as it is locally known). Many traditional German markets are turning overly commercial but, Nuremberg stays true to its roots with authentic craft stalls, delicacies and even has a naivety scene with real farm animals!

Sydney

Rather than freezing your proverbial off in colder climates, get yourself to Sydney where Summer begins in December! Locals celebrate the big day by taking their families down to the beach, having a surf and enjoying a barbequed festive feast.

Prague

Purely for its architectural backdrop to the winter weather, Prague offers the most picturesque of Christmas breaks. Much like Nuremberg, the city is famed for its fantastic markets in the Old Town, with wooden huts dotted around selling seasonal products.

At Home

You can’t beat at spending the holidays at home with your nearest and dearest, so you don’t have to go to climates afar to have celebrate!

The post 10 Fun Places To Spend Christmas In 2014 appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.