How did December go by so fast? I’m still in denial that summer is over.  If you panicked this morning when you looked at the calendar because only 2% of your holiday shopping is done, keep calm—we’re here to help.  This holiday season, if you want to get your loved ones the very best of the best—check out our top 5 places to buy the perfect holiday gifts!

1.) Italy for Leather

KKulikov / Shutterstock

KKulikov / Shutterstock

From purses, to shoes, to belts—if someone on your list loves leather, then you should head to Italy ASAP! Not only does Italy have arguably the best food in the world, but they also have the best leather. Known for their consistently high quality products, leather production in Italy, particularly in Florence, is serious business. Only the highest quality hides are accepted and often the labor is done by hand. While Italian leather products are available in many other countries, you’ll want to travel to the source to avoid the high prices that come with imported goods. Plus, after you’ve finished exploring the Florence Leather Market, you can have the most amazing pasta you’ve ever had!

2.) Switzerland for Chocolate

Alexander Demyanenko / Shutterstock

Alexander Demyanenko / Shutterstock

Do you have someone on your list who is hard to shop for? The aunt who has everything? The brother who wants for nothing? Well, then get them chocolate! Everyone likes chocolate! If they don’t, maybe you should be thinking a little harder about who you spend your time with?

Switzerland is where milk chocolate was invented and is known world-wide for the luscious and delectable bars still produced there today.  While Swiss brands of chocolate, such as Lindt, are available in the States, why miss the opportunity to check for the best quality on one of the many chocolate factory tours available in Switzerland in breathtakingly beautiful locations such as Geneva.

3.) Turkey for Ceramics

Yulia Grigoryeva / Shutterstock

Yulia Grigoryeva / Shutterstock

If you have an art lover on your list, you should head to Turkey to buy some of the beautiful ceramics and tiles that have been created there for centuries. Iznik ceramics are a classical part of Turkish culture and are known for their intricate and distinct patterns. From tiles to teapots, you can find a vast array of beautifully painted pottery from masters of this ancient craft. While browsing for your loved ones, you may even be lucky enough to receive a demonstration!

While you’re in Turkey, don’t miss out on the other wonders that this historic country has to offer. Drop by Istanbul for some of the most breathtaking architecture you can imagine.

4.) The Netherlands for Cheese

symbiot / Shutterstock

symbiot / Shutterstock

For all your lactose-loving loved ones, nothing could be more thoughtful than a basket full of delectable and savory cheese. I know, you’re thinking if I want cheese, shouldn’t I go to France?  Well, while France does offer some really fine cheese, they don’t offer cheese with the same pomp and circumstance that the Netherlands does. Cheese has been made in the Netherlands since prehistoric times and they are currently the world’s largest exporter of cheese. If you want a true cheese-lover experience head to one of the many cheese markets that the Netherlands has to offer.  Once you’ve had your fill of their famous Gouda, make sure to visit the many wonderful sights this country has to offer such as The Burger’s Zoo and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.

5.) Colombia for Coffee

Jess Kraft / Shutterstock

Jess Kraft / Shutterstock

We all have that one friend who isn’t exactly a morning person. You know, the friend who can’t function without caffeine. If they’re on your list this year, book a ticket to Colombia for their world famous coffee beans. Colombia has the perfect climate for coffee production and they have been producing this crop for centuries. Grabbing a few specialty blends while in the country is sure to satisfy even the biggest of coffee snobs.

After you’ve gotten your energy up from the espresso, check out the Museum of Gold in Bogota or take a hike up Mount Monserrate for the beautiful views.

If, after reading all this you’re still not sure what to get your loved ones this holiday season, consider giving the gift of travel! This way you can check out some of these amazing places, with the ones that you hold dear—win,win!

A CheapOair gift card is a gift that will be remembered for years to come! Let us know what you’re hoping to get for the holidays this year in the comments!

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About The Author

Shelby Sampsel is a freelance writer and marketing professional with a background in the publishing industry. When her head isn’t buried in a book or drafting a new chapter, she's dreaming of her next trip. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram @shelbysampsel!