My sister (in her 40's) is going to Thailand in January and I want to get her something for Christmas - be it a book, clothes, travel gadget - something! that speaks to her upcoming and exciting first time trip to Thailand? Thank you in advance for your always generous advice.

Is she going to Bangkok? If so, you might consider getting her a copy of the Nancy Chandler Bangkok map and a copy of the Luxe guide to Bangkok.



http://www.nancychandler.net/product.asp?pId=11


http://luxecityguides.com/all_articl...?category_id=2

Another useful item would be a crushable sun hat.

I am also headed there next month!

You could make a small kit with things like: travel clock, mini flashlight, sewing kit, ear plugs, etc.

I don't think this post needs to go on the Asia board, as finding a good travelers gift is pretty much the same regardless of the destination.

Thanks for the ideas - and will post to Asia just in case. I did go ahead and buy here a nice photo album - with the note that she is to send me photos as she travels and I will print and have in book when she returns.
Thanks again!

Have her send you some postcards too. Great idea about the album.

A basic Thai language tutorial on CD or DVD is good. Not all Thais speak English, and just a few Thai words will go a long ways.

go to Magellan's website & buy her a travel pillow 'collar' one that goes completely around the neck so if her head falls forward she will continue to sleep.. they make a velvety one that inflates & one that is not inflatable... it's the best... they also have an inflatable cushion (for shorter people) that enables your circulation not to be cut off by the seat hitting you behind your thighs, great travel clocks & TSA luggage locks... they do mail order & have a few stores, depending upon where you live... I just went to the Santa Monica store & stocked up... realize a flight to Thailand is not like other places... it's 18 hours & anything you can buy her to make the hellish flight more comfortable, she will love.. and she an use them over & over...