There are two kinds of people – those that do their Christmas shopping before we even hear Jingle Bells in the shopping malls come December, and those that wait until they’re on their way to the festive gathering before making a sho’t left and arriving with a screeching halt in front of their chosen store to scramble for a last-minute purchase.

Whichever group you find yourself in, we’ve taken the mystery out of it with these lovely ideas that would suit anyone’s Christmas stocking.

A fabulous voucher

You heard right! It is perfectly acceptable to give someone a voucher for Christmas, especially if it’s something that’s a real treat. Our top recommendations for this sunny festive season are:

• An ice-cream voucher from the World’s Best Ice Cream Parlour (literally!). Life Unframed in Cape Town was recently voted Number 1 against fifty other ice-cream shops across the world, and offers dairy-free as well as fully vegan options. The best part? They’re right here in the Mother City! Find them in Woodstock, Gardens and the V&A Waterfront
• A delicious restaurant experience at Bones Kitchen & Bar. This down-to-earth eatery offers something for everyone, from ribs and burgers to wild mushroom risotto and Cioppino. It’s a night out your loved ones will certainly thank you for!
• A blissful day of R&R at one of Cape Town’s top spas. Most people will tell you that this year was “crazy-busy”, and everyone’s looking for a way to relax this summer. Spoil someone with a spa treatment to show that you appreciate them. Most establishments have promotions this time of year, and if you’re looking for something in the heart of the city, Woodstock has spas that come highly recommended, like Origin Wellness Spa and Bali-Spa.

A sexy plant

Plants are an aesthetic way of showing appreciation. They’re lovely to look at, good for the soul and liven up any space. There are all sorts of different indoor and outdoor plants to consider for your special someone, so take into consideration the type of home they have and what their personality is like. Some people are vigilant gardeners, while others – though they love plants – are best suited to the low-maintenance variety. Chat to your local nursery about the best options. Once you have your plant, include a beautiful plater to go with it so that it matches the space perfectly. Check out Plantr for something unique and truly special.

A Peppy Potjie Pot

If you’re looking for something a little different for the foodie, a potjie pot is the gift that keeps on giving. Potjie pots offer endless culinary possibilities, and potjie stews are a fantastic opportunity to gather friends and family. Although traditionally used outside on the braai, a flat potjie pot can also be used on the gas or electric stove top, so buy with your cook in mind. Need options? Check out these colourful, enamel potjie pots from Braaitness, or visit Takealot if you’re looking for cast iron pots. Just think about all those delicious stews you’ll get to enjoy in thanks for your awesome gift!

We hope you find what you’re looking for! Whatever you choose, if it’s done with a little thought and care, your dear ones will love it!