Shopping Guides

The Indagare Holiday Gift Guide 2022: Our Favorite Gifts for Travelers

The holiday season is upon us, and this year, we’re sending gifts to loved ones near and far that celebrate and support the destinations we love, from Nairobi to New York City. The Indagare Holiday Gift Guide: 2022 Edition features a curated selection of treasures, gadgets, books, candles and fragrances, nonprofit organizations and more, for every traveler in your life, from the design lover to the trailblazer. (And we may be wrapping up a few things for ourselves, as well!). These are the items that make us recall our favorite trips around the world and have us dreaming of the adventures that await in the months and years ahead. We hope that these gifts inspire learning, joy and global exchange—plus, don’t miss picks from our team and some insiders and tastemakers whom you may recognize from our podcastsInsider Journeys and more, as well as an exciting new partnership! 

Happy Gifting and Happy Holidays, from all of us at Indagare.

Partner Spotlight: The Best Gifts for Jet-Setters, Curated by Mytheresa

We are thrilled to announce our newest, exclusive member benefit! Indagare is partnering with Mytheresa, the finest edit in luxury fashion, to offer unlimited VIP Personal Shopping Services and personalized packing lists. Through Mytheresa’s Personal Shopping program, Indagare members will have direct access to Mytheresa’s renowned network of personal shoppers and stylists. Your dedicated Mytheresa VIP Personal Shopper will curate individualized style edits of must-have pieces for any of your upcoming trips, selected from an elevated curation of more than 200 of the world’s most coveted luxury brands. Email myindagare@mytheresa.com if you are a member to get started—and shop an exclusive curation by Mytheresa for holiday gifting and winter travel essentials, below! (Plus: Order your holiday gifts by 10:00 a.m. EST on December 15 to receive your items by Christmas Eve.)

In-Flight Essentials...
  • Saint Laurent Leather AirPods Pro Case: Protecting (and keeping track of) your tech gear while on the road is essential, whether you're a digital nomad or just on holiday. And why not do it in style? Made from a protective shell and covered in leather, this Saint Laurent case is hot-stamped with golden lettering. The metal hoop is easy to clip onto your belt buckle or the shoulder straps of a matching Loulou bag.
  • The Row Sporty Small Nylon Pouch: Made in Italy, from lightweight and durable nylon, this travel pouch features a leather drawstring closure that doubles as a handle. It's perfect for storing your in-flight and sleep essentials for overnight and longer-haul flights: just attach it to your carry-on for easy access.
  • Ami Paris Ami de Cœur Wool-Blend Scarf: For the "A"s in your life—and lovers of French fashion—this charmingly accented wool-blend knit scarf bears the Ami de Cœur logo (named after the French expression for "friend of the heart"). It's the ideal cozy plane accessory and provides wear-with-everything warmth for a European holiday.
  • Loro Piana Ribbed-Knit Cashmere Socks: If you're heading abroad this winter, upgrade your in-flight gear with these insanely soft Loro Piana socks. Home for the holidays? They also look fabulous by the fire. (And for a sturdier slipper—We love these Brunello Cucinelli Shearling Slides.)

Carry-On Staples...

  • Dries Van Noten Dayley Floral Shirt Dress: Without a doubt, a brightly-patterned, lightweight, long sleeve shirt dress is one of the best travel essentials you can invest in. It can be worn as a breezy coverup or day dress for beach and warm-weather destinations, paired with tights or pants, boots and a leather jacket for cooler climes, and it transitions well for any destinations where conservative attire may be required. Plus: Roll it up for painless packing!
  • Totême Signature Cotton-Blend Trench Coat: Another carry-on must-have is a sleek trench coat that can be layered for varying temperatures and makes even a simple jeans-and-tee combo look elevated. Totême's Signature Trench Coat is cut from cotton-blend canvas in a classic double-breasted silhouette.
  • Brunello Cucinelli Wool, Cashmere and Silk Cardigan: Complete your travel uniform with a wear-everywhere cardigan. This baby blue option from Brunello Cucinelli is made from a blend of wool, cashmere and silk with a cable and open-knit design and a snap button closure for easy layering.
Must-Have Accessories...
  • Magda Butrym Crystal-Embellished Drop Earrings: At Indagare, carry-on only is the name of the game—especially while airports continue to struggle post-pandemic with understaffing and baggage tracking. To keep your accessories case light, we recommend selecting items that easily transition from day to night—like these sparkling earrings, which can glisten-up a casual touring outfit and accompany an evening dinner look.
  • Loro Piana Logo Baseball Cap: Made in Italy from the label's Storm System® Wind microfiber fabric, this waterproof and wind-resistant baseball cap from Loro Piana is a sleek travel accessory for all weather (and activities).
  • Maison Michel Henrietta Wool-Felt Fedora: It's a truth universally acknowledged that a great hat provides an automatic upgrade to your travel style (plus—it's a chic barrier against wind, rain and sun). This Maison Michel black fedora is made in Spain and totally classic—an easy travel companion to wear with everything, day to night.
  • Loewe Striped Mohair and Wool Scarf: The Acne Studios scarf may have been the item of the fall season—but you can stand out from the crowd with this equally cozy, equally colorful, mohair and wool blend wrap from Loewe.
  • Self Portrait The Bow Micro Tote: For a bit of fashion fun—without sacrificing space—Self Portrait's adorable, practically palm-sized micro tote is bedazzled in diamanté and provides an instant festive upgrade to your holiday evening outfits. Plus: A detachable chain strap allows you to carry the bag or wear it cross-body—ideal for stylish travelers on the go.
  • Roger Vivier Bouquet Embellished Satin Shoulder Bag: For a fun pop of color and touch of sparkle, this Roger Vivier shoulder bag is still lightweight enough to bring along as a bonus accessory—plus, its soft form means you don't have to worry about it getting crushed in your luggage.
Beach or Ski? Getaway Gear in Style...
  • Pucci Printed Beach Towel: If a warm-weather getaway is in your near future—or you're just dreaming of a Positano escape—this colorful towel is sure to stand out pool- or ocean-side, in the fullest expression of Italian glamour.
  • Bottega Veneta Logo Ski Goggles: For the fashionable ski bunnies in your life, these goggles combine function and fashion with tinted acetate and an adjustable logo-print jacquard strap in bright Kelly-Green (helpful for keeping an eye on your gear on and off the slopes!).
Discover much more, from show-stopping holiday dresses to home décor, at Mytheresa.com! Please email myindagare@mytheresa.com to get in touch with Mytheresa’s Personal Shopping team directly.This section was curated in partnership with Mytheresa. If you buy something through the above links, Indagare may earn an affiliate commission.

Melissa’s Picks

Indagare Founder and CEO Melissa Biggs Bradley shares the items at the top of her gift list:Glasshouse Fragrances Soy Candles – A Place in Paris and Midnight in Milan“This year, I hosted Insider Journeys with Vogue to two of my most favorite cities: Paris and Milan (which we are offering again in 2023!). These trips provide a special prism—the world of fashion—through which to explore these beloved destinations, and these elegant candles from the Australia-based brand Glasshouse Fragrances immediately transport me right back there. Their Fragrance Library perfume set is also a wonderful gift, with eight travel-themed, travel-friendly minis to choose from."* Paravel Carbon-Neutral Aviator Luggage Set “I'm a firm believer in traveling carry-on only and in carbon-offsetting our travel miles. Paravel's Aviator Set, which includes matching carry-on and "grand" checked models, is sleek and streamlined. Plus: The set is designed primarily using sustainable and recyclable materials (including the lining, which is made from 36 upcycled plastic water bottles)—and Paravel offsets all carbon emissions that are generated by creating and shipping the Aviator Set to you

.

Paravel Monogrammed Packing Cubes “These chic and versatile bags are my go-to gift for frequent travelers. I also love this jewelry cube from Ellis Hill.”

Supergoop! Bestsellers Starter Kit and Mineral Sunscreen Stick Whether I'm heading to Antarctica or Anguilla, sunscreen is always in my carry-on. The creams from Supergoop! are reef-safe and skin-friendly—and the Bestsellers Starter Kit is an easy, carry-on-friendly gift for travelers on the go. For more active outdoor adventures, the Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 is compact and sweat- and water-resistant—just throw it in your pack and reapply throughout the day.

La DoubleJ Homewares

For my new SiriusXM podcast Passport to Everywhere, I recently interviewed Milan-based designer J.J. Martin, who also hosted our Insider Journeys travelers to Milan for a special visit this fall. I love her charming, colorful, sunshine-filled prints, and for a gift that's guaranteed to elicit delight, her playfully printed table linens, glassware and plates are at the top of my list.

Artisan Jewelry and Crafts from Turquoise Mountain This year on our Insider Journeys to Jordan and Saudi Arabia, we visited with the artisans behind Turquoise Mountain, an organization that supports female economic empowerment, cultural preservation and training in traditional crafts throughout the Middle East. You can shop a selection of their one-of-a-kind jewelry, crafts and décor online, for a gift with a positive global impact.

Donation to the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST) “As our understanding of what it means to travel continues to evolve, we all need to think carefully about how to preserve natural and historical wonders as well as neighborhoods that are threatened by overtourism. That’s why I am proud to serve on the board of CREST, a policy-oriented research organization dedicated to increasing the positive global impact of tourism.”

Carbon Offset Gift This year Indagare has offset more than half of all of the carbon impact of our members’ travels—and next year we aim to offset 100 percent of member travels. We are doing this by partnering with Sustainable Travel International to provide funding for important projects around the world that offset carbon impact by funding certified projects that protect and restore forests, produce clean energy and increase energy efficiency. Together, these programs reduce greenhouse gas emissions by removing existing emissions from the atmosphere and preventing new ones. Spread the positive impact by offsetting your travels or those of someone you love. Inquire by emailing membership@indagare.com.”

Polar Explorations: To the Ends of the Earth by Sebastian Copeland and Why We Travel: 100 Reasons to See the World by Patricia Schultz Through our Indagare Global Conversations podcast and now on the SiriusXM podcast Passport to Everywhere, I've had the privilege of interviewing some of the most fascinating thought leaders, creatives, trailblazers and authors in the travel industry today. Sebastian Copeland and Patricia Schultz have both been featured on our shows, and both are total powerhouses (the former is a groundbreaking endurance and polar explorer, photographer and filmmaker; the latter is a travel writer with a career spanning over 40 years and the author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die). Their new books are both on my holiday gift list.

The Indagare Tote Bag Members always ask how I'm able to pack carry-on only for long trips around the world—and our custom-designed Indagare Tote Bag is one of my most important tools. This durable canvas tote has a waterproof interior, brass zippers, a zip pocket inside and a travel sleeve to secure on a wheelie. It stows easily under your seat when full. I don't travel without it—and it's just as useful for a full day of meetings and errands in NYC.

Plus: Read my recent article for the Indagare Fall/Winter 2022 Magazine (available here, digitally, on page 32) for my favorite places to find the best gifts in Paris.

Give the Gift of Indagare! Gift a year of membership—or a credit towards one of our Insider Journeys or virtual travel experiences—to the traveler(s) in your life. Click here to purchase a digital gift card.

Indagare Picks: For Foodies and Oenophiles

From Indagare Global Experience Director Kathryn Nathanson: Piedmont White Alba Truffles

“For this holiday season, we’ve created the ultimate gift for the foodie—or Italophile—in your life: Until December 20, Indagare members are invited to place their orders for fresh Alba White Truffles, delivered directly to your door! They will arrive straight from northwestern Italy’s Piedmont region—home of the white truffle. You’ll be cooking meals to remember with this rare and special ingredient soon.” Click here to place your order.

From Indagare Branded Content Manager Elizabeth Harvey: Gift Cards to Your Favorite Local Restaurants and Water & Wines Puzzles “Local restaurants are always in need of our support—and that's why, this year, I'll be filling my family's stockings with gift cards to some of the new spots that have opened in New York City. There’s a host of exciting new venues to know: A handful of dazzling contemporary fine-dining restaurants are recharging the term “big night out” in the city—while natural wine bars, Venetian-inspired enclaves and fire- and spice-driven creations offer the perfect spot for a more relaxed but equally flavorful evening. The two restaurants I'll definitely be gifting? The post-pandemic reincarnations of Danny Meyer's Manhatta and Maialino, two of my old favorites that I am thrilled to be able to revisit. Click here to see the full list of the places I'm excited about.”

“And for the nights you stay in—I am obsessed with gifting and collecting these wine region puzzles from the female-led, sustainability-focused brand Water & Wines. They're beautifully made and so detailed, with the different varieties of grapes mapped against our favorite wine-growing cities and landscapes. And the luxe illustrations really transport you to the place. Plus: When you're done assembling all 1,000 pieces, you'll really feel like you've earned your nightcap... and perhaps consider planning your next tasting trip!"

From Indagare Trip Designer Grace Park: Spices from Burlap and Barrel "Burlap and Barrel is an amazing company that carries incredible, high-quality spices sourced from small farmers around the world. My friends, the late Chef Floyd Cardoz and his wife Barkha, developed a line of masala spices right before his passing, and they are some of my favorites."

From Indagare Global Conversations Podcast Guest Teesa Bahana, Director of 32° East, Ugandan Arts Trust: Aprons from xNStudio These beautiful aprons from xNStudio are designed in the U.S. and made in Uganda. xNStudio is a multi-disciplinary black-owned design company founded in 2011 in Brooklyn and Kampala. We work with artisans to fortify existing networks among and between independent creatives in Africa, including Uganda, Ghana, and Tanzania. Plus, a percentage of apron sales will go towards the Mukono Foundation, which supports primary education and the arts in Mukono, Uganda! And if I may, I'd love to add the suggestion of a donation towards my organization (32° East). We're building a multi-purpose arts center for artists in Uganda to have the resources and freedom to transform how we see the world. It is scheduled to officially open this spring—come visit!

From Indagare Content Coordinator Sydney Lapin: The Doyle Collection’s Afternoon Tea Set

“Everything about the afternoon tea set from The Doyle Collection (the Irish, family-owned portfolio behind Indagare favorites like The Westbury in Dublin, The Bloomsbury in London and The Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C.) gives me nostalgia for traveling in the UK. This collection is the perfect gift for tea lovers, and you can curate your own set by selecting the pieces individually. My favorite is the The Westbury Afternoon Tea Butterfly Plate—but there’s so much to choose from!”Travel to London & the Cotswolds this June for a one-of-a-kind immersion into English society, design and culture with insider and connoisseur Serena Crawford. Click here to learn more about our latest Insider Journey!From Indagare Marketing Associate Jenna Levandowski: Wine + Peace

"My absolute favorite thing to receive and give during the holidays is wine. I love loading up on bottles with a big order from Wine + Peace. They feature a curated selection of small, independent and low-intervention winemakers from around the U.S. You can shop by value (community-focused, environmentally-focused, women-owned, etc.), by varietal or by farming method. It makes it really easy to feel confident that you’re not only buying wine people will love, but that you’re also supporting sustainable wineries in the process."

From Indagare Senior Content & Brand Strategy Director Jen Barr: Treats from Giving Broadly "Spice up the holidays for foodies on your list with products like Asian comfort food, curry sauces, spices, honey and more from women-owned food brands sourced from all over the world from Giving Broadly, a website started by longtime former Food & Wine editor in chief Dana Cowin."

From Indagare Editorial Assistant Abby Sandman: Chocolate and Coffee Must-Haves "For chocolate gift boxes, I love Belgian Leonidas Chocolate and Dutch De Riujter Chocolate Sprinkles (my family is Dutch, so we’re very picky chocolate-eaters). Any time a family member comes back from Europe or wants to send us a thank you gift, they send one of these and we devour them. And for travelers on the go, the  Joeveo Temperfect Mugs pull the excess heat out of your coffee, so that it’s a comfortable drinking temperature in minutes—and then it contains that heat in the mug, so that it stays that temperature for hours. They're perfect for the caffeine-lovers in your life!"

From Indagare Global Experience Production Assistant Karina Atkins: Donation to Food for Soul

Massimo Bottura's culinary genius and passion for hospitality extend far beyond his internationally acclaimed restaurants and hotels. He is also the founder of Food for Soul, an organization dedicated to fighting food insecurity and mitigating food waste. This holiday season, consider supporting the organization and its growing Refettorio Network, which provides community and nutritious meals to the most vulnerable worldwide."From Indagare Trip Designer Isabel Graubart: Peru: The Cookbook by Gastón Acurio

"My favorite new purchase that I also plan to gift this holiday season is Peru, The Cookbook by Gastón Acurio, the famous chef and owner of several of the most important restaurants in Peru, including Astrid y Gastón, and mentor to Virgilio Martínez (the chef of Central). It was highly recommended by our local partners in Peru, and it's my new favorite cookbook on the shelf. It's the best way to bring a taste of Peru to your home; plus, it's super cute and colorful."

Give the Gift of Indagare! Gift a year of membership—or a credit towards one of our Insider Journeys or virtual travel experiences—to the traveler(s) in your life. Click here to purchase a digital gift card.

Indagare Picks: For Design Lovers and Style Mavens

From Indagare Industry Partnerships Manager Sarah Minges: Villeggiatura: Italian Summer Vacation from Assouline x Belmond

"One of my favorite gifts to give this year is the unbelievably gorgeous, lush new coffee table book from Assouline, Villeggiatura, highlighting the delicious, ephemeral beauty of Belmond’s Italian properties. Leaf through for design inspiration and transport yourself to Cipriani, Caruso (pictured above), Splendido, Castello di Casole, Grand Hotel Timeo or Villa Sant'Andrea...and start dreaming of your next vacation!"

From Future of Travel Summit Panelist and Visit Sweden Marketing Manager Magnus Lindbergh: Holiday Ornaments from Svenskt Tenn Founded in 1924, this celebrated gallery-store is the source for classic Swedish and Danish design and textiles. The only licensed Fornasetti dealer in Sweden, Svenskt Tenn is a trove of one-of-a-kind furnishings that meld European precision with Swedish functionalism. These beautiful ornaments will bring a dose of Scandinavian warmth and elegance to the home of whoever receives them.

Join us for a complimentary virtual Swedish holiday baking class on December 6 at 11:00 a.m. EST! Award-winning baker Linda Walstrom will be teaching one of her traditional cinnamon bun baking workshops—a must-try treat on any trip to Stockholm. Click here to RSVP!

From Indagare Branded Content Manager Elizabeth Harvey: Diptyque for The Ritz-Carlton This November, Diptyque (the famed Saint-Germain parfumerie maison) and Ritz-Carlton launched an exciting new partnership that will bring Diptyque bath amenities to the portfolio of Ritz-Carlton properties—along with limited-edition gift sets and pop-up shops at select hotels around the world for the holiday season! I was able to experience the launch for myself earlier this month with a celebration at the U.S. pop-up, on through December 24, at the new Ritz-Carlton NoMad. The event was hosted in the dazzling rooftop cocktail bar Nubeluz, a glowing, jewel-toned space designed by Martin Brudnizki—and it was plush with gifting inspiration. The Diptyque for The Ritz-Carlton gift set—which gives a taste of the collaboration's signature fig scent, Philosykos (a fresh, earthy and just slightly sweet breeze inspired by a summer memory from Greece's Mount Pelion)—is already sold out online, but you can still shop the Philosykos collection (or check out one of the pop-ups in person). Diptyque's limited-edition 2022 Holiday Collection—this year, inspired by the starry December sky, with constellation imagery—is always a stylish choice (and an anticipated collectible for brand devotées). And it never hurts to sample something new; though I'm typically loyal to the Ofresia and Doson fragrances, I am now totally intoxicated by my new 34 Boulevard Saint Germain candle!"

From Indagare Senior Content & Brand Strategy Director Jen Barr: One&Only x lemlem Scarf for Rwanda

"This fall, luxury hotel brand One&Only launched a limited-edition scarf designed exclusively for the new Rwanda properties One&Only Gorilla’s Nest and One&Only Nyungwe House, created in partnership with lemlem, a sustainability-focused, made-in-Africa fashion labeled founded by supermodel Liya Kebede to preserve the traditional weaving arts in her home country of Ethiopia—and to empower local artisans, especially women. For the One&Only scarf, lemlem partnered with the Kigali women's cooperative Ibaba Rwanda, an embroidery collective that supports economic development for rural Rwandan women. Each scarf has been hand-embroidered with a gorilla motif in honor of the endangered mountain gorilla and the 12 gorilla families that live in the surrounding Volcanoes National Park. Gift this versatile, lightweight piece to someone who recently visited this beautiful country—or let it be inspiration for someone who's hoping to go!"

From Indagare Vice President of Sales Elise Bronzo: Market Treasures from Around the World “My daydreams are constantly streaming scenes from my favorite markets in the world, especially in India: friendly exchanges with local merchants, bartering by hand gesture to overcome language barriers, aching ankles after a day along cobblestoned alleyways, total saturation. This holiday season, I’m supporting these places by gifting my loved ones with items from some of my favorite artisans and global brands who have online stores—including cashmere shawls from the Jaipur-based Andraab; home decor from Luang Prabang’s Ock Pop Tok; impeccable accessories from the globally-sourced, Charleston-based Ibu Movement; these adorable, furry llamas from an artisan family in Peru’s Andes mountains (a must for anyone stressing out this season); the beautiful embroidery pieces from the Los Angeles/Lebanon studio Kissweh; and the colorful pouches and bags from Lalla, a female-founded Marrakech brand that is also now sold in Le Bon Marché. I also love browsing the collections curated by Fashionkind, which features artisan-backed brands from all over the world—with homeware, clothing, jewelry, the works! Their brand also helps preserve local design traditions, an endeavor close to my heart." 

"Also, I am planning to gift my friends and family (who don't already have it) a copy of our founder Melissa Biggs Bradley's 2021 debut book, Safari Style: Exceptional African Camps and Lodges, featuring 21 properties, from Rwanda to South Africa. The book is as beautiful as it is meaningful (proceeds support our favorite conservation organizations through the Indagare Impact Initiatives) and after being on the book tour with Melissa I can attest that the book looks gorgeous in any and every room. The writing is excellent, the photographs by Guido Taroni, inspiring, and it’s the perfect gift for that person on your list who already has everything."

From Indagare Vice President of Business Development Diana Li: Jewelry by Melissa Joy Manning I love gifting ethically made, heirloom jewelry by Melissa Joy Manning, whose designs make a positive impact on our world, through a clear sustainability plan and annual contributions to non-profits like International Rescue Committee, Clean Water Fund, World Central Kitchen and more.

From Indagare Trip Designer Isabel Graubart: The Klipsta Hat Clip "Hats are one of my favorite travel accessories, but they can be difficult to pack (Do you fit it in your suitcase, and risk crushing it—or carry it onboard, and risk losing it?). This Klipsta clip is so helpful—it makes it easy to securely attach your hat to your bag, so you can bring it along with you, hands- and worry-free!"

From Indagare History Club and Insider Journey Host Jamie Sewell: Traditional Wooden Decorations from Germany The tradition of the Christmas tree began in Germany, possibly as early as the 16th century. Needless to say, the handicraft of carving wooden Christmas decorations is also an old German tradition, and the Erzgebirge in Saxony is the region most closely associated with this artisanship. Spinning tea light pyramids, nutcracker figurines and Schwibbogen from this area adorn German homes during the holiday season. And if you're curious as to what these strange sounding decorations look like, you'll find them in the online catalogue of Käthe Wohlfahrt, which also ships to the U.S.

From Indagare Senior Content & Brand Strategy Director Jen Barr: Madeline Weinrib's The Heirloom Project at the Met

"Designer, artist and partner behind the chic boutique hotel Riad el Fenn in Marrakech Madeline Weinrib is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Islamic Wing at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art with a collection of items created in collaboration with artisans from India, Morocco, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Egypt and Lebanon. All products are inspired by works in the Met and support the Met's conservation and presentation of centuries of art—and they're gorgeous and transporting."

From Indagare Branded Content Manager Elizabeth Harvey: Four Seasons Bedding "Every time I take a trip and stay at a fantastic hotel, I pick up tips for how to recreate that luxurious design experience at home. Few gifts (for a loved one, or yourself!) are more indulgent than the world-famous Four Seasons bedding—especially the full set of linens, plus the duvet insert itself. Simply heaven!"

From Indagare Vice President of Business Development Diana Li: Rudimentary Clothing "For the male travelers—Classic staples for every trip by Rudimentary, whose mission is to show purchasing with a purpose leaves you with a long-lasting, fashionable wardrobe that will make dressing well a simple task."

From Indagare Global Conversations  Podcast Guest and Fashion Designer Eric Raisina: Eric Raisina Silk Organza Fluffy Bags and Silk Scarves

“Our Silk Organza Fluffy Bag is our most popular item of all time—though we recently made a smaller version that clients are also loving—and the scarves are very popular. They are so light and colorful, and they are enough to emphasize a simple black dress. We have 12 different colors, in large and mini sizes.” Inquire by emailing info@ericraisina.com and including "Indagare" in the subject line.

From Indagare Global Conversations  Podcast Guest and Fashion Designer Patrick Robinson

  • Travel Trousers: Meditation (Women's) and Reflection (Men's): "Cosmopolitan and impeccably cut, these trousers are made to move from home to airport, from airport to airport, from airport to office, from office to hotel, and everywhere in between. With an elasticated drawstring waistband, zipper fly, double snap waist, and two front and one back concealed zipper pockets, these pants offer the classic Paskho comfort with practicality. And the best part: Paskho is creating jobs in the U.S. These pants are made by the talented Makers of our Community-Made Pod in New York."
  • Lucidity Long-Haul Flight & Travel Hoodie (Women's and Men's): "A definite go-to for travel, engineered for comfort and beauty in any condition, climate or continent. The details make this like no other hoodie: Sustainable Swiss-made tech fabric that is lined with fleece, two zipper hand pockets, a smart back zipper pouch pocket and ergonomically seamed for an amazing fit."
Our design- and fashion-focused small-group Insider Journeys with Architectural Digest and Vogue are officially on for 2023! Click here to explore our current collection with AD, featuring spring and fall trips to Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, Marrakech and Tangier—and a new trip to Maastricht for TEFAF, coming very soon—and click here to explore our dazzling spring and fall trips to Milan and Paris with Vogue.

Indagare Picks: For Outdoor Adventurers and Trailblazers

From Indagare Associate Director, Digital Content Peter Schlesinger: Animal Adoptions—A World Away

"I love to give family members animal adoptions from organizations I support. Two I love are the Turgwe Hippo Trust, which is a very small-scale sanctuary for wild hippos in Zimbabwe, and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which works to rescue and rehabilitate orphan elephants in Kenya."

Look out for our Indagare weekly newsletter next week to read about Peter's experiences scouting a conservation-focused safari in Zimbabwe last month!

From Indagare Vice President of Business Development Diana Li: Donation to the Wildlife Science and Conservation Center of Mongolia "On this year's Insider Journey to Mongolia, we visited the Wildlife Science and Conservation Center of Mongolia, an organization dedicated to preserving wildlife and habitat through research, conservation and public education. WSCC invests in local community engagement in the Altai Mountains to protect both the golden eagle population and cultural traditions. They encourage each hunter to register a Golden Eagle passport, so roughly 200 eagles can be monitored and released back into the wild in two to three years."

Read more about Diana and our Insider Journey travelers' transformative adventure in Mongolia here. Plus: Join us for another amazing trip in 2023! Learn more here.

From Indagare Chief Strategy Officer Jacqueline Hampton: Ocoopa Rechargeable Hand Warmer "I love this small Ocoopa Hard Warmer which is rechargeable. I use it all winter long when walking my dog. But I also take it on any trip where I think I might get cold—it's perfect for hiking, walking around a city in the winter and for ski trips! This older version is the best as it's so small and fits right in your pocket."

From Indagare Global Experience Production Associate Bridget McElroy: Hydration Gear for the Ultimate Adventurer "My brother's friend (and the nephew of Indagare members) launched MXXY in 2020, to create the world's first dual-chamber hydration pack that seamlessly carries electrolytes and water on the trails, for ultimate performance and energy during your adventures off-road. It's equipped with a hydration dial that allows people to switch between water and an additional hydration supplement. I purchased one of their trial packs and love it—and after much anticipation, they are finally on sale to the public this year!"

From Indagare Senior Content & Brand Strategy Director Jen Barr: The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag "For the adventurer on your list: I have given this bag to three people so far, and they have absolutely loved it. It's a duffel that doubles as a backpack and folds into its own inside-out pocket for easy storage and comes in fun colors. The smaller backpack is also great. The 55-Liter option, which is my favorite, is carry-on size."

From Indagare Content Coordinator Sydney Lapin: The Baboon to the Moon Fanny Pack “Ever since I was given my Baboon to the Moon fanny pack, I haven’t traveled without it! It somehow manages to fit all the things you might need or want easy access to, without looking too bulky. It comes in really fun colors that change seasonally (right now there's a playful Stockholm-inspired collection on sale) and features different compartments to keep you organized. It's the best at the airport, where I can manage to fit my passport, wallet, phone, a phone charger, tissues, hand sanitizer, a hair clip, headphones, chapstick and a pen—but also on days of touring, since it holds my camera, wallet and phone with ease!”

From Indagare Global Experience Production Assistant Karina Atkins: Donation to Great Plains Conservation “Going on safari provides a renewed perspective on nature and our relationship to the Earth. Consider showing your appreciation for the African savannah and ensure it's safeguarded for future generations by donating to the Great Plains Foundation. This foundation, run by Emmy and Peabody award-winning nature filmmakers and conservationists Beverly and Dereck Joubert, aims to conserve and expand African natural habitats through innovative conservation initiatives. This year their efforts have been focused on Project Rewild Zambezi, one of the largest wildlife translocation projects in history."

Discover our June 2023 Insider Journey to Zimbabwe to witness Dereck and Beverly Joubert's latest conservation effort, Project Rewild Zambezi. This intimate Insider Journey, created with their foundation Great Plains and hosted by Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley, will bring you incredible, exclusive access to witness this historic relocation first-hand—with the chance to get involved, while on safari at top lodges. Learn more.

From Indagare Global Experience Director Kathryn Nathanson: Adopt a Gorilla or Donate to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

"Seeing the endangered mountain gorillas is one of the most magical experiences one can have. And the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is at the center of why we are able to experience these magnificent animals today. The fund protects, safeguards and studies the gorillas, and also helps communities build up their conservation capabilities. You can support these initiatives with a donation this holiday season in someone's honor—or you can contribute by "adopting" one of the gorillas to support their protection."

From Indagare Insider Journeys Operations Manager Catherine Happ: Yeti Rambler Water Bottle "Whether you're venturing to the edges of the earth on one of our most ambitious Insider Journeys, or you're staying active at home, a long-lasting reusable water bottle is a wonderful way to lessen your environmental impact. The handle-equipped screw-top of the Yeti Rambler model is well-designed for hiking and hydrating on the move."

From Future of Travel Summit Panelist and Founder of Aqua Expeditions Francesco Galli Zugaro:

  • Donation to the Manta Trust: “Sharks and rays are crucial for the health of our planet, but they are some of the most enigmatic and misunderstood creatures in the ocean. They reside in many of the regions where Aqua operates, so I feel a great responsibility to support their protection.” 
  • The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century by Kirk Wallace Johnson (2018, Viking): “A fascinating non-fiction book based on the Birds of Paradise. It is sure to entrance bird-watchers and naturalists alike.”
  • Gift Card for an Aqua Blu Expedition on the Amazon, the Mekong or in Indonesia: “Our sustainability-focused itineraries provide conservation enthusiasts with the opportunity for meaningful experiences that contribute to global environmental causes.” Inquire by emailing membership@indagare.com
From Indagare Global Conversations and Passport to Everywhere Podcast Guest, Polar Explorer and Award-Winning Photographer Sebastian Copeland: Donation to Amazon Watch Amazon Watch sheds light on the devastations taking place in the Amazon, and it gives a voice to the indigenous tribes—defending the defenders of the forest from logging, deforestation and persecution. The Amazon forest is often referred to as "The Lungs of the Earth." Amazon Watch brings its voice to the world and lobbies for its protection.”From Indagare Global Experience Director Kathryn Nathanson: Safari Styles from Designer Anna Trzebinski

During the pandemic, I spent several weeks working remotely from Nairobi, Kenya, where designer Anna Trzebinski has opened a wonderful boutique hotel, alongside her atelier and workshop. We've hosted several virtual souks for the Indagare community since then, and Anna now has an easy online store for ordering holiday gifts that help support her local community as they continue to recover from the impact of Covid. Anna has curated an extraordinary collection of her signature pieces and one-of-a-kind-creations—but if you're picking my fave, I love, love her safari coats and would do anything for one (see here). Plus: Click here for some cute stocking stuffers!

Contribution to carbon offsetting is now included in Indagare membership. Click here to learn more about how it works—and discover the initiatives of the Indagare Impact fund!

Indagare Picks: For Wellness Seekers

From Indagare Industry Partnerships Manager Sarah Minges: Skincare by Aman

"Whether you're dreaming of Amangiri, Amanyara, Amanzoe or Amanemu—or Aman New York!—the all-natural skincare products from the Aman brand are sure to upgrade your self-care routine. For a pampering gift, you can't go wrong with the Purifying Auric Cleanse Bath Salts. Plus, the packaging is Kengo Kuma-designed! I'm also excited about the Nourishing Gold Algae Eye Mask, a limited-edition collaboration with 111Skin that combines Aman’s signature marine ingredients and 111SKIN’s NAC Y² formula."

From Indagare Global Experience Director Kathryn Nathanson: The Pluto POD "This innovative travel pillow is all the rage right now. With a 110-night free trial, the design of the Pluto POD neck-pillow-meets-hood-meets-eye-mask mimics the design of first-class sleeping pods to maximize support, darkness and privacy for better sleep while traveling."

From Indagare Trip Designer Caroline Hansen: The Ultimate Accessories for a Wellness Getaway

  • Naadam Cashmere Sets: “These are the best for long plane—or car—rides, as well as working from home.”  
  • Sabah Slippers: “These amazing shoes are handcrafted in Turkey and are so comfy for traveling!” 
  • Slip Sleep Mask: “These sleep masks are great for skin-friendly—and jet-lag-beating—travel.” 
  • Bala Bangles: “I’ve gifted Bala weights to a few people this year, and they’re compact enough to bring along with you when you travel for added impact during an exploratory walk.” 
From Indagare Contributor Arabella Bowen: Blackberry Farm at Home

"I love to give this Blackberry Farm Bourbon & Lavender Scrub to girlfriends at the holidays. It's perfect for creating an elevated bath experience at home...and Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain happen to be two of Indagare's most-booked hotels and Indagare Index properties, too."

From Indagare Branded Content Manager Elizabeth Harvey: Eric Bonnin Ceramics

"Some of my favorite items to shop for, collect and gift from my travels are ceramics and glassware (the worst items to carry home—but, hey, the heart wants what it wants). I recently discovered my new favorite coffee and tea mugs on a scouting trip in the Hudson Valley at the gallery-store Finch, in the form of Eric Bonnin's organically shaped, perfectly rounded pieces. They bring peace and cheer to my morning routine, every day. They're also available online, and in Manhattan at Côte a Coast."

From Indagare Membership Coordinator Alexandria Branam: State Turkish Towel "I always travel with my Turkish Towel, and this one is my favorite! It is thick enough to be substantial, but not too big to pack—and it's somehow still soft and dries quickly. I use it at the beach, on a plane, after a shower, really for anything. They're made in Turkey from 100 percent cotton—and they can be machine-washed and dried. Essential!"

Indagare Picks: More Gifts with Impact

From Indagare Global Conversations  Podcast Guests and Founders of Rwanda’s The Retreat at Heaven Josh and Alissa Ruxin: Donation to Bridge2Rwanda “We've lived in Rwanda for over 16 years and constantly support orphans and vulnerable kids. Over the last few years, we've started an academic tennis program for very vulnerable children. Our first big success is Junior Hakizumwami, who started training with us six years ago and was recently accepted to Morocco's prestigious ITF academy. We are currently working with Paci and Hirwa, both aged six, to keep them in school, as well as tennis training with Coach Sylvan, Rwanda's top tennis coach and former ATP-ranked player. Paci and Hirwa come from homes with prevalent hunger and no path to success. We would like to build out this program for many others—and Bridge2Rwanda helps support education, housing, food, clothing and healthcare costs, plus the thriving tennis academy for super-vulnerable children. You can donate through this link."From Insider Journey Host, Spiritual Coach and Omega Institute Co-founder Elizabeth Lesser:

"If you are looking for a great organization to give to, may I humbly suggest my own: Omega Institute, the non-profit life-long learning center I co-founded 40 years ago. Omega is a hub for education, retreat, and being part of a community of people from around the world. Besides offering workshops in everything from meditation to cooking to basketball, Omega is committed to taking care of the caregivers—the people who devote their lives to lifting our communities and repairing our hurting world. Your contribution will help us continue this unique opportunity for individuals and organizations. You can watch a video about this program here."

From Indagare Global Experience Production Assistant Karina Atkins: Donation to the World Monuments Fund or the International African African American Museum “The World Monuments Fund is dedicated to protecting and restoring some of the world's oldest treasures. Their work, spanning from Hindu and Buddhist temples in Cambodia to ancient Mayan cities in Belize, ensures that archaeological sites central to our cultural heritage are intact for future generations."

"Closer to home, the brand-new International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina—opening to the public on January 21, 2023—explores the diverse histories, cultures and achievements of Africans in the Americas. Your donation will support their efforts to document, share and better understand the African American journey. And start planning your visit today!"

 

Give the Gift of Indagare! Gift a year of membership—or a credit towards one of our Insider Journeys or virtual travel experiences—to the traveler(s) in your life. Click here to purchase a digital gift card.

*The Glasshouse Fragrances item was created in partnership with Glasshouse Fragrances and published by Indagare Travel.

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