The Christmas gift-giving frenzy comes with a lot of pressure. In an ideal world, meaningful gifts would be chosen for loved ones weeks in advance before being perfectly wrapped and placed under the tree.
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But not all buyers are so inclined. The best way to give a present that's simple, truly memorable and does away with all that post-Christmas clutter? Opt for an experience instead.
Few cities offer a set of experiences as diverse as Canberra. The joy of floating over the capital in a hot air balloon at dawn, or tasting the gastronomic delights of one of the region's award-winning restaurants will linger far longer than a material gift.
As will the delight of a quiet night at the cinema, a close encounter with some of the zoo's furry critters or a month's worth of free morning coffees. Plus, most can be purchased online or over the phone and a voucher easily popped in the card. It's a win-win.
Grazing at Gundaroo: Grazing at Gundaroo offers three gift vouchers. A Taste of Grazing (buyers can nominate amount), Grazing Indulgence ($140) and Grazing for Wine Lovers ($200). Phone 6236 8777.
Harvest Coffee: Harvest Coffee gift vouchers available to any value. Harvest Coffee, 40 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra. Visit harvestcoffee.com.au.
Balloon Aloft flight over Canberra: Flights from $290. Gift certificates and delivered gift boxes available. Visit balloonaloft.com or phone 6249 8660.
National Gallery of Australia membership: Gift memberships to the gallery start at $40 for one year. Buy online at nga.gov.au.
Palace Electric Cinema, New Acton: Palace Movie Club Membership ($19) or gift cards from $30. Buy online at palacecinemas.com.au.
Meet a Cheetah: The National Zoo and Aquarium offers gift vouchers start from $21.50 Meet a Cheetah $175. Buy online at nationalzoo.com.au.
Canberra Theatre Centre: Gift vouchers for Canberra Theatre Centre's 2015 season can be bought online at canberratheatrecentre.com.au.
