Christmas is 13 days away and the giving has begun in earnest. Companies are sending hampers filled with delightful goodies such as wine (very important), spa vouchers (hinting that we are all exhausted and need to recharge), ginger bread cookies, and much more. Thanks to Taobao you can get a variety of hampers at very affordable prices, with prices starting at RMB 25. There are many options available from ‘faux’ leather to ‘faux’ baskets. However as the rule with Taobao you are sure to get the real items at a higher price. If you can’t read Chinese or just generally find Taobao confusing then head to Baopals for an easier shopping experience. Here is a list of what you can put in the gift hamper to give to friends and family.
Cheese
With access to companies such as Le Fromager de Pekin that makes artisan cheeses including renditions of Camembert and fromage blanc from RMB 40 for 120g then this makes a budget friendly and unique addition to the hamper. You have to pack the cheese last and make sure to let the receiver know that the cheese might melt.
Chocolates
Beijing sure does love its chocolates and does have an amazing selection of chocolatiers. Store bought or custom made chocolates make this addition budget friendly. Artisan chocolates such as La Place will have gift box options available starting from RMB 268 for a box of a dozen different types. The chocolates contain nuts and fruits therefore be sure to let them know if you have allergies.
Chinese Tea
There are hundreds if not thousands of Chinese tea shops around Beijing that you can find the wide selection of teas that can be picked to suit different tastes. The Chinese tea might or might not come with its own tea set therefore you giving a wholesome gift. Adding this to the gift hamper gives it a touch of Chinese culture. Add in a Chinese tea tour that is usually conducted by the Hutong at least once a month to make it easier for the receiver to truly enjoy the tea after learning the correct ways of serving and taking care it.
Fudge
This is best made at home and made using your own ingredients to suit your friends or family’s taste buds. This is a good personal gift to add to make things interesting since companies are selling bulk hampers.
Kids Crafting Kits
Crafting kits are available in Beijing’s toy market at Tian Le Toy Market in Hongqiao Market, or other small stores in malls such as Indigo, Solana, and Joy City. If that doesn’t pan out then online e-commerce sites will do just fine.
Electronic Accessories
This is the one gift that is highly appreciated, all of us at one point have wished we had an extra headphone set, electricity cord, and other pesky accessories of modern convenience. Add this to help a friend or family member.
Photos: hamperideas.co.uk, thenorthplace.com, red-luxury.com, freefoodphotos.com, happymoneysaver.com, alicdn.com
