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Unconventional gifts for the holidays
Jakarta Sat, December 21, 2024

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Looking for something new for this festive season instead of the same old boring gifts? From building blocks to guided journaling, we’ve curated five unique ideas.
Unconventional gifts for the holidays

As 2024 winds down, your loved ones may start hinting at their wishlists with a wink, a nudge or even a shove.

Not sure where to start or just not into their picks? We’ve got you covered.

Whether it’s a hands-on activity or media bingeing, here’s a curated list of distinctive gifts that go beyond the ordinary to inspire you to embrace the holiday spirit.

1. The gift of entertainment

If you’re unsure what your special recipient might want but know they love movies, music or gaming, a gift card can be a lifesaver.

Gift cards ensure a steady stream of entertainment and are convenient for both giver and receiver. While they might seem like a quick fix, it’s guaranteed they won’t be returned.

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Know someone who loves binge-watching? A Netflix gift card is perfect. Are they always listening to their favorite tunes? Opt for a Spotify or Apple Music subscription.

You can also find gift cards of various denominations at convenience stores like Indomaret and Alfamart, starting for as low as Rp 50,000 (US$3.16) for a month’s subscription to Rp 300,000 for six months. They’re flexible, practical and great for anyone from colleagues to parents.

2. The gift of creativity

Did you know adults accounted for 43 percent of global toy sales last year? Indulging in toys isn’t just for kids anymore, and companies like Lego have embraced this trend with advanced sets designed for grown-ups.

Since launching its 18+ line in 2020, Lego has expanded the collection to include iconic architecture sets like Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands and intricate models from beloved franchises, like the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars.

Prices range from Rp 500,000 to over Rp 2 million, depending on the set. These hands-on gifts are perfect for anyone who loves tinkering–and you can join in the fun, too.

3. The gift of nostalgia

Vinyl records are making a comeback, with sales surpassing CDs for the first time since 1987. If your gift recipient is a music lover, why not surprise them with a medium they can hold?

Jakarta has plenty of record stores, including in the iconic Blok M Square, where you’ll find a mix of secondhand treasures and freshly pressed vinyl. For curated collections, visit Piringan Hitam Recordstore or Atlas Records.

New vinyls typically cost Rp 400,000-700,000, while CDs are more budget friendly at Rp 100,000-200,000.

For an extra thoughtful touch, pair the gift with a turntable or CD player. Whether displayed as decor or played, they’re nostalgic, unorthodox gifts in the age of streaming.

4. The gift of timeless style

A symbol of prosperity and success, watches are timeless gifts. Digital watches in particular are practical and stylish, making them a great option.

Casio offers affordable, durable classics like the retro F91W, the upgraded A168WA and the calculator-equipped CA-53. Prices start at around Rp 200,000 and go up to Rp 1 million.

If you’re looking for something local, brands like Pala and Lima offer unique analog watches. Pala specializes in wooden timepieces with playful color schemes, while Lima’s metal watches exude modern elegance.

A watch is a subtle yet thoughtful gift, and every glance will remind them of you.

5. The gift of self-reflection

Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and stress relief, making blank journals a perfect gift for the end of a busy year. Guided journals particularly make the process less daunting by offering prompts and questions to spark introspection.

Local favorites like The Book of Dreams and The Book of Executor by Poppy’s Dream are available in both English and Indonesian for around Rp 300,000, with occasional discounts down to Rp 270,000. Either is certainly cheaper than a therapy session.

For an international option, consider The Habit Journal by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits. The Indonesian translation costs around Rp 80,000, while the original ranges from Rp 400,000 to Rp 600,000.

These journals take the guesswork out of journaling, providing a structured way to reflect and start the new year on a thoughtful note.

After all, why not begin 2025 with a fresh, blank page of prompted pondering?

Aqraa Sagir is a writer for The Jakarta Post's Creative Desk. He’s chronically online in the hope it would be a useful asset for the job.