Don't Hit The Malls For A Christmas Gift This Year, Give A Memorable Experience Instead

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One of the best things about Christmas is the gifts we get, isn't it? But these don't have to be materialistic, I believe. That's why I shortlisted a list of interesting experiences you can gift which would make for great memories. 

For The Culture Vulture

Have you though about how it would be to head to a vintage building via a ferry boat not too far from your home? Sounds mesmerising, doesn't it? Now add to that the British Baptist missionary William Carey, a birthplace of some eminent literary works, and Bengal's first printing press! That is precisely what The Denmark Tavern is all about. If you've got a pal who is interested in travel. culture and heritage and if the history section of the library calls out to her or him more than anything, this will be the perfect gift. Located in Serampore, this 232-year old structure was recently renovated and opened its doors for stays. It has an attached cafe run by The Park group which is open on all days but they take reservations only on weekdays. So go ahead, take a trip down the river and have a meal here.

For The Walking Dead

We're sure you have the one friend who'd always suggest a horror flick for the movies night, or a cemetery for a fun hangout session! Our next on the list is a Christmas gift for those kind of pals. Let Us Go is known for their heritage walk around the city, but what perked our interest was their Walking With Ghosts. They start at 11.30pm - yes, close to midnight, and give a tour around Kolkata. The walk will consist of information on some Kolkata heritage buildings infamous for being haunted, lots of ghost stories and more (apparently, dead wives and scary pianos!). Enough of those ghosts behind the television screen, gift your friend an unforgettable experience with this midnight walk at INR 888. 

For The Musicheads

iTunes and all is cool, but we really wish we had the liberty of owning vinyls, and actually using them - nothing can compare to the sound quality. If you have a pal who thinks likewise, here is the next best thing. Zee's Coffee Shop in Ballygunge hosts these amazing vinyl sessions every Sunday, from 3pm onwards (the next one is on December 23). They usually have some cool city musicians like Reevu Wangdi, Josh Mukherjee and others bring in their collection of vinyls and curate a great afternoon listening session. Gift your friend a sway (for real) to the tunes of some really rare vinyls played on the two Technic 1200 tunetables in the house. Take them for a little coffee date (they have some of the most amazing coffee in the city, btw) to this little cafe for the perfect Sunday late afternoon-to-evening hangout. This might be a Christmas gift this year, but it'll probably be your go-to more Sundays than not. Tip from us - if you both share a favorite, arrange your vinyl and a needle, and they'll let you play. 

For The Ones With Wanderlust

Have one of those friends who would be willing to drop every single thing if that meant a camping trip? This one is a perfect Christmas gift for them. Izifiso is arranging for you, camps for all kinds of campers ( we mean lake camps, a beach camp, a musical camp, a Himalayan camp and more)! Starting at about INR 900 per head (price varies according to the camp you choose), this makes for the perfect getaway gift. Christmas is a great time, all's happy and cheery, but there are always those people who'd rather have their peace and quiet. Gift a camp, be the champ (sorry, we just had to do that!) this Christmas.