If there’s one challenge many face during the holiday season, it would be finding the perfect gift to give. Should it be practical? Something unique? Or maybe a little bit of both. Bottom line is that we want to make our loved ones feel appreciated this Christmas.

To help you out in your search for the perfect items to wrap, the Manila Bulletin Lifestyle team shares a few recommendations that take the guesswork out of gifting, featuring versatile, stylish, and thoughtful picks your friends and family can enjoy all year round.

This year’s gift guide leans into indulgence with objects of desire for a holiday wrapped in luxury. Think Faure Le Page’s Arthur keychains, playful yet exquisitely crafted, from the quarterback and scuba diver to the firefighter, wrestler, and even a caped superhero. Then there’s Gucci’s Giglio large tote, rendered in beige-brown GG canvas, though the brown suede version is just as irresistible. And for the final flourish, Diptyque’s Advent Calendar: 25 scented treasures tucked into a storybook of wonder.—Rey Robes Ilagan, lifestyle editor

The best three gifts I would recommend for this season for the women in your life: a session each of UltraClear and Density at the new ultra luxe Luminisce Prima clinic by BGC, headed by Manila Bulletin Lifestyle columnist and dermatologist Dr Kaycee Reyes, because it’s a gift that will last the receiver an entire year: Ultraclear to erase fine lines, tighten pores, and give you some serious inner glow, and Density for skin tightening and for correcting the early signs of sagging. I personally hope I get this gift every year for the rest of my life.

The second is a package for Pilates treatments and classes at the soon-to-be-opened Next+ Wellness Center in Morato, Quezon City. Beyond regular pilates classes, the center will offer physiotherapy treatments. Red light pilates, or PBM reformer pilates, is a wellness trend that combines traditional reformer pilates with Red Light Therapy. PBM pilates uses specific wavelengths that promise to boost circulation, speed up muscular repair, reduce inflammation, and enhance recovery.

And last, I hear Amanpulo is on a 50 percent off sale now, but you’ll have to hurry because the offer is only until the end of this year (for travel until next year). But imagine starting 2026 in absolute bliss. Also, it’s high time to support domestic travel. One of my 2026 resolutions is to spend more money traveling in the Philippines. These three gifts will kickstart a journey to a better you.—Krizette Chu, lifestyle editor

A perfect holiday gift is something a recipient can depend on all year round—and these picks aren’t just stylish, they can accompany your loved ones on many adventures. An oversized cardigan is a closet staple, and this one from Lacoste easily transitions from day to night. When it comes to dependable accessories, nothing beats a good tote bag. Beyond the Vines’ Studio tote in navy isn’t just roomy; it also offers a perfect way to add an accent color to any outfit. Lastly, Salomon’s XT-6 sportstyle shoes are a pair that would definitely go the distance—easily fitting any he, she, or they style.—John Roland Legaspi, associate editor

Three luxury brands consistently make it to my gift list. First is Hermès Rouge Brillant Silky, now offered in three limited-edition shades of Beige Halo, Orange Flash, and Rose Gélatine. With its soft, buildable, nourishing formula and in a shiny, colorful, refillable case, it’s a chic beauty gift that delivers both color and care. Next is Tumi’s 50th anniversary collection, a standout for meaningful gifting. The gold minaudière, with its textured matte-gold aluminum body, is sleek and collectible, made even more special with a black slim leather pouch. Finally, Le Labo’s Perfumed Hand Cream is an elevated everyday essential. Lightweight yet deeply hydrating, it comes in six cult-favorite scents, along with a discovery set of Santal 33, Another 13, and Thé Noir 29 that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a touch of luxury in their daily rituals.—Jane Kingsu-Cheng, editor-at-large

Thoughtful gifts to close the year. A fountain pen is a meaningful choice for those who appreciate the quiet ritual of writing, with Kaweco’s brass models offering an accessible entry into the world of fine pens. For stationery lovers, Midori’s paintable date stamps from Japan add charm and personality to planners and journals. Those who prefer shared experiences can opt for “Disney On Ice,” opening at the Mall of Asia on Dec. 20, bringing a dose of Disney magic without the need to travel abroad.—Feliciano Rodriguez III, sub-editor

Thoughtful gifts for everyone. Queen of Cups is a unisex ube-milk fragrance crafted by Filipino fragheads Claire and CJ—an unexpected scent that delights all ages. Wiggle Wiggle’s Desk Organizer–Smile We Love brings a burst of color and cheer to any work or study space. For a gift that inspires creativity, Soul Flower Co.’s Level I: Basic Leather Crafting workshop offers a hands-on introduction to a timeless skill.—Jessica Pag-iwayan, features associate

For the holiday season, my three best gifts to give are fun for the whole family. First off, plan a family vacation ahead of time and try venturing out to Sunlight Air's latest destination addition, Siquijor. Chances are you'll be able to board the latest addition to their fleet, the ATR 72-600. Flights between Cebu and Siquijor now operate four times a week. Next is the perfect present for gamers out there, a copy of the Video Game Awards’ Game of the Year, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. It's currently on sale for 20 percent off on Steam as a thank you to everyone who showed support for the game. Finally, for the parents to enjoy the holiday season, consider booking a Christmas and New Year stay at the Manila Hotel. Just this year, the World Travel Awards presented the historic location with the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Award. Late-night show host Conan O'Brien was also among the memorable celebrity guests who graced the hotel this year to check out the Douglas MacArthur suite.—Poch Eulalia, senior content producer

Give with intention this holiday season. The Xiaomi Redmi Watch 5 is a sleek, practical smartwatch perfect for staying active and organized, ideal for tech-savvy friends. The Good Store Wanderer Self-care Set—featuring a journal, travel kit, and reusable bag—encourages mindful self-care while supporting local artisans, making it a meaningful, eco-conscious gift. Indio Filipino Shirt is a stylish, locally made piece that honors Filipino heritage, perfect for friends who appreciate fashion and culture while supporting sustainable, homegrown clothing.—Nancy Marie Andam, junior graphic artist