Holiday
Shopping Guide
Almanacs
elves have once again scoured the campus and its environs to find
the
most interesting gift ideas that are readily available right outside
our door or not too far down the street. Their findings are arranged
by type of gifts: Bath & Beauty | Books/Video/Music
| Patriotic Presents | Wearables
| Tech/Electronic | Holiday/Decorative
| Housewares | Food/Drinks
| Toys | Stationery
and Outside-the-Box
Bath
& Beauty
| Books/Video/Music | Patriotic
Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic
| Holiday/Decorative | Housewares
| Food/Drinks | Toys |
Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Bath/Beauty
The
Black Cat strives to offer bath and beauty products you
will not find in your usual Bath and Body Works. Carrying imported
soaps from Portugal ($12.50), various exotic lotions, and a full
line of both "Burts Bees" and "Dirty Girl"
bath sets ($22) , these bath and beauty items are great because
they look like they would have taken a world of effort to round
up. Browse through this section of the shop, and you will even
find quirky leaf-patterned and metallic shower curtains, complete
with faux frogs lounging in the tub where these curtains hang.
The
Flower Emporium at Penn Tower carries shower caddies
full of bath items including soap, body wash, sponges etc., in
lots of wonderful fragrances ($42.50).
Vog,
the new salon at the Left Bank, has gift certificates for
a hair cut and/or color in any amount. Been there, got a great
cut and Im over thirty.
Saturn
Club, provides the expected services along with skin care,
nail polishes, hair care products, and hair accessories such as
head bands and barrettes. Tempted to try a tattoo? The Salon has
temporary tattoos for purchase. They have gift sets, some with
a picture frame, shampoo and conditioner ($15) while others include
a candle instead of frame. Know someone who has tension in their
back? Hit the Spot massage tool ($18) is intended to relieve their
stress. Gift certificates are available.
Yes,
youll even find bath items at the Penn Bookstore.
They carry a line of products called "Fruit Frappe"
which features items like a watermelon exfoliating jam ($9.98)
and colorful fruity soaps ($3.98/ea.)a sweet stocking stuffer.
Old Virginia candle company provides the perfect bathtime accessorytheir
scented candles in fragrances like hazelnut, coffee Irish cream,
mocha ($11.98) add spice to the season.
Douglas
Parfumerie has gifts for cosmetic needs from-head-to-toe and
all the points in-between. Their large Christmas tree displays
perfume gift sets like Estee Lauder, Yves St. Laurent, Givenchy,
Ralph Lauren, Versace, Gautier and Dior ($35 to $90). Or, make
your own gift basket; Douglas has all the raw materials and the
wrapping is free, as is the shipping in the continental U.S. Penn
ID holders get 10% off any purchase over $25. New to Douglas are
a few cosmetic lines. Stila, catering to hipsters young and young-at-heart,
provides fresh and unique shades of lip tints and stains ($26)
as well as gift sets called "Flaunt" which include fragrant
body shimmer with a matching candle. The sets ($38.50) come in
green tea, gardenia, jasmine and violet. Also new is PUPA, a line
of "minis" creatively packaged to mimic electronic
equipment and are likened to the colorful I-Macs. PUPA offers
compact travel setshaped like a discman ($35).
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Bath
& Beauty
| Books/Video/Music | Patriotic
Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic
| Holiday/Decorative | Housewares
| Food/Drinks | Toys |
Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Books/Videos/Music
A
new bookFranklins Daughters, featuring vignettes
of the lives of 23 women pioneers who overcame obstacles to pave
the wayarrived at the Penn Bookstore in honor of
the 125 Years of Women at Penn Celebration and is still in stock
for the feminist historian on your list. A different sort of history
of Penn is also at the Bookstore: A Historical and Architectural
Guide to the University of Pennsylvania by George E. Thomas
and David B. Brownlee. ($40.50) a popular book among architecture
enthusiasts; and virtually anyone will treasure University
of Pennsylvania: A Photographic Portrait. ($35.98) which depicts
some of our campuss most recognizable as well as hidden
beauties. For kids, the Bookstore provides an entire section called
"Ben & Me" featuring popular titles such as the
Harry Potter and Lord of the Ring series as well
as Dr. Seuss, Winnie the Pooh and Eliose. No matter
what you are looking for, the Penn Bookstore guarantees youll
find it with its helpful signage and informed staff. On
the second floor, be sure to check out titles by Penn faculty
members along with Penn Press books and academic texts.
The
Music Department, also on the second floor, stands ready to provide
holiday shoppers with tunes from most any genrefrom classical
to popfolk to jazz and R&B. An added bonus this year
is the large selection of the latest DVD titles like Pearl
Harbor, Shrek, or The Godfather Collection. DVDs average
$20-$30, while CDs average $15. Holiday music starts at $5.99.
The
House of Our Own bookstore enters the holiday season with
a variety of vibrant, atmospheric decorations to the store including
old Victorian ornaments to match the ornate home the store is
in. In addition to full sections in feminist theory, country-specific
literature and literature by Penn authors, the store will feature
fantastic treasures from its used book collection upstairs and
discounts on selected new titles. As an added bonus, shoppers
can enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, cookies, and other munchies while
they browse.
As
"The Scholars Choice since 1962," The Penn
Book Center lives up to its reputation and then some. The
store boasts special collections not likely to be found elsewhere,
such as Museum Studies, Cognitive Science and Philosophy of the
Mind, and Cultural Studies and Critical Theory. Readings of popular
interest can be found in collections such as Food and Culture,
and even a "Dog Department," with a serious focus on
relationships between humans and their beloved pets. Their Childrens
Section features richly illustrated selections as well as classics
like St. Exupérys The Little Prince in Italian,
German, Latin, its original French, and yes, even English editions.
The
store manager readily suggests popular titles as gifts for others
or for yourself like: Chaim Potoks Old Men at Midnight
($23), poetry by Billy Collins in Sailing Alone around the
Run ($21.95), and early American history by Penns own
Daniel Richter in Facing East from Indian Country ($26).
Or on a lighter note, Bill Wattersons Calvin and Hobbes:
Sunday Pages 1985-1995 ($12.95) is always a joy for all ages.
The
fantastic selection of both new and used CDs at Spruce
Street Records makes a trip to buy music gifts in Center City
unnecessary. The store carries a full catalogue of popular and
indie artists at the very reasonable prices of $13.99-$14.99.
On one recent visit, the store had hard-to-find gems by Sleater
Kinney and Modest Mouse for purchase. If what youre looking
for is unavailable, Spruce Street Records can special order albums,
usually obtainable within 24-48 hours of ordering. For the aspiring
DJ on your list, check out the small but delicious collection
of 12-inch remixes in the back of the store.
The
newly expanded Pyramid Shop at the University Museum
offers numerous choices for the young reader who, having
read all the Harry Potter books might like to dabble into
some other tales. They might try Encyclopedia of Eastern Mythology
or Myths & Tales of Ancient Egypt, Arabia, Persia, India,
Tibet, China & Japan. Lots of other books that are not
run-of-the-mill are also here to entertain the kids.
At
the Museum Shop this year, in addition to many international
ornaments, youll find Modern Mongolia: Reclaiming Genghis
Khan (paperback $17.95)a great addition to any coffee
table collection and a great compliment to the Museums exhibit
of the same name. They also have a delightful collection of books
on Native Americans, Egypt, and Africa.
Even
with its inevitably esoteric subjects, gifts abound at Dolbeys
Medical Bookstore. Help your favorite med student study with
the stores variety of USMLE preparation books on a variety
of subjects ranging in price from $14.95-$24.95. Improve any library
with the gift of a beautifully illustrated hardback medical dictionary
for $49.95. For the anatomy buffs on your list, Dolbeys
has a variety of detailed medical posters on subjects such as
diseases of the digestive system and a three-dimensional human
body, surely a welcome addition to any wall.
Youll
find little surprise at the Video Library. You can get
videos or DVDs of the most recent movies or of the most famous
classics. They have set up a holiday display where you will find
mostly Christmas videos to entertain kids for just a buck a night.
A holiday raffle will be held, so sign up and maybe get free VHS
and DVDs! Gift certificates are available if you cant make
up your mind as to what video or dvd to give.
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Bath
& Beauty
| Books/Video/Music | Patriotic
Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic
| Holiday/Decorative | Housewares
| Food/Drinks | Toys |
Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Patriotic
Presents
Steve
Madden and TV star Dennis Leary join forces to raise money
for New York Citys fallen firefighters with a sneaker called
the "Bravest". At $49.95, this white leather sneaker
has a 1 5/8" platform and rhinestone flag on the outer upper.
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to "The Leary Firefighters
Foundation."
Hardtail
and Smith Bros. Jeans have teamed up to offer their USA
T-shirt ($30). In heather grey or white, the cap-sleeved shirt
depicts a small American flag in the center. All proceeds from
the sale of this shirt are being donated to the Red Cross.
In
the spirit of the season, Douglas Parfumerie offers the
Solidarity Set, the Tony & Tinas cosmetic lines
"Americans Unite" gift setlip gloss, nail polish
and shimmery eye powder ($25). With every set purchased, Douglas
will donate $7.50 to the Windows of Hope Family Relief Fund, established
in an effort to assist families of people employed at the Windows
of the World.
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| Holiday/Decorative | Housewares
| Food/Drinks | Toys |
Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Wearables
The
CHOP Gift Shop has pint-sized doctor and nurse uniforms
for the toddler in your life ($18.99).
The
Museum Shop has silk ties with Egyptian hieroglyphs,
constellations or the sphinx ($32-40), silk scarves in elegant
Japanese floral prints; T-shirts with hieroglyphs, Museum or Genghis
Kahn exhibit logos. From Egypt, and Southwestern U.S. come necklaces,
bracelets and earrings. Gold, silver, and turquoisethe Museum
Shop has a collection of jewelry for out-of-the-ordinary gifts.
Why not order a personalized cartouche ($60-325) in silver or
gold? The Museum Shops Surprise Coupon event runs through
December 11 and for members on December 12 theres a special
discount sale from 4:30-7:30 p.m.
A
family-owned and long-time campus presence, University Jewelers
has something classy in every price range for everyone, including
watches and jewelry by Seiko, Movado, Dolan-Bullock, Pulsar, and
also in various Penn-insignia styles. You can find sterling silver
jewelry for $20 or lower, as well as engagement rings of the most
priceless quality. Or try a personalized touch this year with
their beautiful engraving services (starting at $8).
If
unique, handcrafted jewelry is the gift you are seeking, then
Black Cat will not disappoint. Adorned with exotic earrings,
necklaces, bracelets, pendants, and other accessories, each fashioned
individually from various designers, the Black Cats selection
offers stylish alternatives to your hoop earrings and silver necklaces.
Priced moderately (earrings go for about $20), and loaded with
sale racks usually boasting 40% discounts, their jewelry collection
is most definitely one to be rivaled not only in value, but in
creativity.
Modern
Eye offers stylish eyewear selections from designers such
as Calvin Klein, Ray Ban, Gucci, Hugo Boss, and popular styles
by l.a. Eyeworks and Microshades (starting at $49). With the convenience
of an optometrist on the premises, theres no reason not
to be sporting some new frames or shades this winter.
Add
some sole to the season with new footwear from the Grand Shoe
Store. They feature leather boots and shoes including Bruno
Valenti boots for women and Steve Madden hipster shoes for men.
Whether
your lady is a "Motorcycle Momma" or stiletto lover,
Steve Madden has boots, shoes, sneakers and slippers to
match many an attitude. They not only carry boots averaging $70,
but they also sell coats, bags and accessories. Buy your teen
a pea coat ($90) or a corduroy tote bag ($35). Stuff stockings
with socks: (3 for $12). Everybody loves the fuzzy slipper, in
various patterns, styles and colors ($20). Or, for $20, give your
favorite shoe-a-holic a gift that keeps on givinga "Mad
Money" card; with it, they will receive 10% off all purchases
for a year.
Whether
you are 13 or 30, if you have a hankering for designer labels,
then look no further than Smith Bros. Jeans. The newest
shop at Sansom Common, Smith Bros. caters to those with an eye
on cutting-edge fashion. Tattered, low-waisted, color-washed,
purposely worn, boot-cut jeans by designers such as Diesel, Mavi,
Parasuco, Kosiuko, Miss Sixty, Juicy, Billy Blues, Buffalo, Earl,
Lix and Seven ($50 to $150)are any hip gals best friends.
They also carry Puma sneakers as well as jackets, tops, handbags
and accessories for the label-conscious. Shopping for an unpredictable
fashion plate? They have gift cards available in any amount.
T-shirts,
polo shirts, shorts, sweats, pants, jackets, hats, ties, and even
boxers all bearing the Penn name and/or insignia are available
in the "School Spirit" section of the Penn Bookstore.
A must have for any spirited alum or Penn family member is the
Penn sweatshirt in traditional red & blue, hooded ($50-$70)
or crew ($25).
Its
back to basics this winter at the Gap. Black, gray, brown,
tan, crème and white are the dominant colors for most of
their clothes, setting a more conservative tone than its vibrant
pastels of last year. Though seemingly subdued, the winter line
at Gap is far from drab. All the colors of the rainbow are represented
in accessories, as if to say, "beauty emerges from the little
things." With pro-fleece gift sets ($30) including a hat,
scarf and gloves, individually $12.50. For her, Gap offers the
supersoft turtleneck ($39) of 50% wool/50% acrylic, with a shaped
waist, ribbed neck, cuffs, and bottom. For him, a lambswool cableknit
turtleneck ($58) makes a cozy gift. Pajama sets for Mr. or Mrs.
Sleepyhead are $29.99. Holiday boxers are buy one-get one free
($12.99). Youll find toasty socks in candy cane stripes
of hot pink and purple as well as wool toboggan scarves available
in colors like "espresso, bright pink, snow winter, azalea
purple." The hand knit 66" long x 7 3/4" wide scarf has a
pull-through slit at end, complimentary color borders are made
of 100% wool ($9.99) and are guaranteed to make even the grinchiest
person on your list purr with holiday cheer.
Make
the holidays special for the Penn-fanatic on your list with a
new wardrobe of Penn-wear from Steve and Barrys.
T-shirts are available in an unbelievable number of styles and
sizes including babydoll and kids Ts are 2 for $15. Keep
your loved ones warm with heavyweight embroidered sweatshirts
($20) and varsity and nylon jackets ($20). The store also has
a huge selection of low-priced mugs, cups, and glasses with Wharton
and Penn logos.
It
may not feel like winter yet, but EMS is like every good
Boy Scout: always prepared. Containing everything one needs for
outdoor survival and sporting, EMS carries an array of clothes
from Patagonia, Columbia and The North Face as well as their own
line of clothing and accessories in fleece, knits and polartec.
The "zip-in, zip-out" feature to all of EMS outerwear
allows its wearers to zip in extra insulation when temperatures
drop and zip out to prevent overheating since both shells and
insulation are designed to fit together. Jackets are high quality
($90-$250) in an attractive and variegated array of colors. Keep
her warm this year with EMS Windstopper Gloves ($23.20). For the
stylish yet practical mountaineer, EMS offers Microfleece Zip
Mock turtlenecks ($39.99). Besides hiking and ski shoes, EMS also
has cozier footwear options like down-filled slippers ($32) and
Acorn brand moccasins ($29.99). Hats scarves and gloves too numerous
to name, make gift giving a cinch.
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| Holiday/Decorative | Housewares
| Food/Drinks | Toys |
Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Housewares
The
operative theme which dominates this section of the Black Cat
is "animal decoration." From marine-themed dinner plates,
to soup bowls adorned with bas relief dogs and pigs prancing around
the outside ($12), these ceramic items are perfect for the person
who likes their dishware to make a statement. The Black Cat also
boasts an impressive selection of White Dog/Black Cat kitchenware,
such as signature logo glasses and bowls ($8).
Messages
is stocked full of gift ideas among the standouts are its
delectable selection of aromatherapy candles, 20% off, its bubble-textured
mini-photo albums ($3.99-7.99), and its recently added line of
"popcorn posters," consisting of vintage celebrities,
movie scenes, and other classic snapshots ($14.95). Messages also
carries a collection of picture frames, most of which are 50%
off.
Among
all its water bottles, thermal travel mugs, thermoses and varied
food containers, EMS also offers metal ware such as the
five-piece Scout Mess Kit, a lightweight, nesting cook kit for
one person. The 7" fry pan with detachable handle, 7"
aluminum dish, and 8 oz. cup .75 quart kettle comes with tight-fitting
lid and is excellent for backcountry hiking, backpacking, and
climbing expeditions ($13). The outdoorsy romantic will surely
appreciate a set of GSI Sports Lexan wine glasses, made with lightweight,
virtually unbreakable Lexan resin, these 10 oz. glasses are made
so the base unscrews and snaps into the bowl section for easy
packing ($6/each).
At The
Camera Shop, Inc. you can get quality developing of your photos
as well as choose from a selection of photo frames (cute Disney
and Looney Tunes frames are 40% off), albums, and digital photo
services.
The
Penn Bookstore has enough housewares to outfit an entire dorm
room, from bedsheets and clip-on fans ($15) to space-saving desks
($130) and yaffa block 3-drawer units ($25). Also offered are
school-spirited furniture, glassware, picture frames and pennants.
A wonderful gift for an office mate is the classic Split P ceramic
mug ($6.98). The Bookstore carries wool needlepoint pillows with
the Penn seal ($49.98) as well as the Boston Rocker, black with
cherry arms and crown ($339.98) and the Heritage Lamp ($199.98)
both by Standard Chair of Gardner. What better way to warm up
your loved one this holiday than with a 100% cotton handcrafted
quilt bearing the split P logo ($84.98).
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| Holiday/Decorative | Housewares
| Food/Drinks | Toys |
Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Tech/Electronic
Radioshack
steers you in the right direction by providing you with a holiday
gift guide full of sales! Get a CD/DVD player for less than $150
or an all-in-one Home Theatre Dolby Digital Sound System ($299.99).
Already have a cell phone? Hands-free and other accessories make
cool gifts. Radioshackhas gifts for children; get a funny designed
phone ($50) or a kids karaoke handset ($25) and a "Monster
Patrol" radio-control car ($75)!
The
Camera Shop, Inc. has a wide selection of cameras,
digital cameras, video camcorders, digital phones, and camera
gear. While you can always check www.ritzcamera.com
for the greatest selection and deals, The Camera Shop has special
clearance items worth browsing right here on campus.
Take
advantage of the academically- priced software and hardware at
the Penn Computer Connection, including language learning
software ($20-$45). You can buy mouse pads with the Penn seal
or M&Ms or artworks by Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec or dogs
playing poker. For kids, snap up a little-fingers keyboard ($59)
found in the "Edutainment" section. A popular item for
the traveling techie is the Kensington Fly Light, a tiny lamp
that is powered by your computer ($19). There are MP3 players
and Palm Pilots a-plenty for the trendier folks. A neat item is
the Smart Pad ($149); it looks like a planner but it allows you
to plug your Palm Pilot into it and comes with a pad of paper,
which lets users to capture handwritten notes and drawing onto
their Palm. Is your loved one overseas this season? Purchase the
Logitech Quick Cam Express 2 Pack ($84) and you can keep one and
send one to your mate.
The
Computer Connection has partnered with Apple and Dell to provide
the Penn community with specially-priced computer system bundles,
such as significant savings on Dells premiere OptiPlex and
Latitude computer systems. They are bundled with Windows XP and
a 3-year next business day, on-site service warranty. Save $200
and up off already academically-discounted prices with these new
Apple Computer bundles, which include iBooks and PowerBooks, Power
Mac G4s, and the iPod. Order either Macs or Dells before December
21 and you can also get a free Lexmark Z32 color inkjet printer.
For the
techie, EMS has electronic equipment in a range of sophistication
and price. The Mini Task Light is a high-powered, white LED keychain
light activated by pressing it between your fingers and is waterproof
to 10 feet ($16). For the nature lover on the go, EMS offers the
SUUNTO Vector Wristop Computer. This is a combination wristwatch,
altimeter, barometer and compass with a large, easy-to-read digital
display with back-light and is even easy to operate with gloves
on ($169.99). And gaining popularity among adventurers is the
GARMIN eTrex Vista GPS. It stores maps of North and South America,
a barometric altimeter and electronic compass which has additional
memory totaling 24 megabytes; and its automatic track log saves
up to 10 tracks to retrace your path while operation buttons allowing
one-handed use without blocking display ($349).
Bath
& Beauty
| Books/Video/Music | Patriotic
Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic
| Holiday/Decorative | Housewares
| Food/Drinks | Toys |
Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Holiday/Decorative
Messages
is carrying more creative and more festive holiday adornments
than anyone could possibly dream of this season. It offers a wide
selection of holiday decorated plates, mugs, ceramic and porcelain
figures, A few of the most notable of these items are the Christmas
cookie platter ($32.95), the metallic snowmen mugs ($9.95) and
the wooden Nutcracker miniature statues. It also offers wonderfully
patterned wrapping paper ($8.50), and other gift wrapping supplies.
It is one of the few shops to have a collection of Chanukah-oriented
gifts too. Rush to Roses Florist (both at
36th & Chestnut (Sheraton) and 34th & Walnut locations,
Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; 34th & Walnut location only: Sat.-Sun.
10 a.m.-5 p.m.) to place your custom flower, fruit and gourmet
basket orders. While youre there, bring home a decorated
miniature Norfolk pine Christmas tree, holiday wreath, or pointsettia
of any size. This year, take advantage of Roses on the web
at: www.uofprosesflorist.com,
where you can place online orders and browse their beautiful floral
and holiday arrangements.
Need
to select a gift before or after work? The Flower Emporium
is open Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-3 p.m.,
closed Sunday. Flowers sent worldwide. Holiday hotline (215) 386-3845;
outside Philadelphia (800) 752-7978. Holiday silk flower arrangements,
wreaths, poinsettia plants, decorated Norfolk pines, and fresh
cut flowers are all available of course.
The
HUP Gift Shop sells a tree-shaped box of 12 glass, painted
Christmas ornaments ($29.99).
Have
you ever seen a Santa on a kayak? Or better yet, riding a grizzly
bear or moose? Well, at EMS such woodsy portrayals of St.
Nick are available in the form of wood carved ornaments. Youll
also find canoe and ski ornaments in pewter, $8.50 a piece.
The
Museum Shop has Polonaise ornaments, along with holiday cards
and mugs.
The
Pyramid Shop has holiday card sets with stickers, and
Christmas ornaments from around the world.
Get
your Penn ornaments at the Bookstore, in silver and gold,
they add a touch of class to any tree or office, ($14.98-$24.98).
An eye-catching and affordable option is the locket closure keepsake
ornament ($3.99); you can buy one and put your photos of choice
inside, and it makes a wonderful and unique gift for loved ones
and acquaintances alike.
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Food/Drinks
HUPs
Gift Shop carries Sweet Shop hand made chocolate truffles
in a holiday giving box (7.99).
Flower
Emporium at Penn Tower, has fruit and gourmet baskets made
to order and delivered and Gertrude Hawks Candy.
If
you are looking to impress a boss or relative with your international
flare, why not give some of the many imported chocolate bars that
Avril 50 carries? With candies from Holland, Belgium, Germany
and other countries, these goodies reveal that even chocolate
has a cultured side. Another unique item that Avril 50 has is
a French Press Coffee Maker ($45.95), a perfect appliance for
the coffee aficionado.
The
Paper Garden has one of the most coveted, and appetizing
gift items of the season, the Jelly Belly Holiday Collection.
Stocked in many different sizes, these heavenly Bellies are sure
to be a hit among young and old alike. They also have fudge and
other holiday delectables that can easily be bagged for a tasty
stocking stuffer.
Treat
yourself or others to Starbuckss tasty Christmas
blend coffee (16 oz. bag, $11.95). Or, they have four different
8 oz. coffees in a sparkling holiday tin ($22.95). Frosty blue
or clear signature mugs ($4.95) and 16 oz. holiday tumblers ($9.95)
from Starbucks make delightful stocking stuffers.
New
to EMS is the NALGENE 32 oz. Bottle with Lindor balls,
a gift set that includes a colorful wide-mouth Lexan water bottle
stuffed full of delicious Lindor® chocolate balls. For outdoor
enthusiasts and chocolate lovers alike, the bottle is impact-
resistant and is easy to clean ($19.50). Old favorites like Toblerone
chocolates ($6) and giant Altoids ($9.95) are also available.
Godiva
chocolates come in decorative tins and wrapped boxes in festive
gold and burgundy, some in red velvety Christmas stockings, others
in a sack held by the Godiva teddy bear. Gourmet chocolate is
an indulgent gift you cant deny yourself or loved ones this
season, and the Penn Bookstore has Lindor Truffles as well
as the official Penn chocolates.
Take
a walk to the Left Bank for some shopping this holiday season;
you wont be disappointed. Picnic provides gift certificates
and baskets of gourmet foods for someone special on your list;
maybe even you. The food is fresh and inventive without being
strange. If you want to create your own gift package for someone,
they sell Wild Thymes fruit spread and mustard, Bella Vista Farms
organic jams, +AZO Teas, Honest Tea and Farmer Steves Popcorn,
and Metropolitan Bakery breads. Menus are online at www.picnic.biz
or call (215) 222-1608.
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Toys
The
Paper Garden carries a few of the hottest items
on childrens wish lists complete with an array of Beanie
Babies including snowmen, reindeer and penguins ($8). Other popular
items include gel pens, teddy bears, boardgames and even "Shrek"
paraphernalia such as keychains and miniature dolls ($10).
Or
stuff those stockings with an adorable little Gund plush animal
or colorful vases, candles and frames at Roses.
The
most popular computer games can be found at the Computer Connection.
For kids, why not purchase Harry Potter or Monsters Inc. games
($30)? Adults can enjoy games like "Myst III: Exile"($39.95)the
latest in the popular series of Myst games, full of breathtaking
scenery and puzzles to be solved.
On
a more playful note, EMS also offers seasonal items such
as a plush polar bear, moose or otter in a can ($7.99/ea.); Midnite
Snacks Magnetic Chess or Checkers, a board game for travel or
refrigerator play ($10); MPH Swiss Bob 2001, for hours of fun
in the snow ($19.50); and cute & cuddly stuffed animals ($25-$50).
The
HUP Gift Shop has stuffed animals too, including dogs, bears,
horses and a pigmy chimp. Beanie Babiespink pig for the
swine lover ($5.99) and Gund angel bears ($6.99).
This
year the CHOP Gift Shop has lots of little gifts to delight
the little ones. In addition to stuffed animals, there are great
stocking stuffers such as travel games ($8.95), a dino puzzle,
Beadinals, an activity involving making creatures from beads ($12.95)
or a Dr. Seuss lunch box ($12.99).
The
Flower Emporium has a supply of stuffed animals including
purple pigs, Beanie Babies, and a cuddly white bear with angel
wings. Stocking stuffers include card games like Old Maid, Hearts
and Rummy.
With
the newly-expanded Pyramid Shop open for business there
are lots of fun but unusual toys that dont need batteries
or electricity. From an abacus ($7.95) to a paint-a- tipi ($32),
African punch-out and assemble village, Dragon Fly activity kit
to Egyptian tattoos, Celtic body art, Roman gladiators, easy to
assemble moving model (the original rockmsockm
robots) ($15), or the always popular build-your-own mummy ($19.95).
Mummy pencil tins in festive colors ($8)and Hologram book marks
(.70). For the stressed out little one,tension relief balls ($5-8.99).
This
year the Museum Shop has a great-looking chess game from
Mongolia. It is a very portable board made of cloth with chess
pieces in the shape of animals ($50), and its a compliment
to the Mongolian exhibit.
The
Penn Bookstore has toys for all ages. Theyve got
Gund animals in all species as well as Wild Republic huggable
animals. Each plush toy comes with a multicultural name, inspirational
saying from its country of origin, educational information about
the species, and free online games. Also fun, are Calligraphy
($18.95) and Origami ($14.95) kits for hands-on children. With
a Hanukkah display, shoppers can also buy fillable Draydels ($1.48),
puzzles ($1.96) and, for kids under age five, a mini softshapes
book about Hanukkah ($5.99).
In Bike
Line you will find big sales on older model bikes. They will
also have a large choice of children bikes. A holiday gift can
also be the occasion to offer bike accessories to keep biking
even during the winter. The shop has plenty of those accessoriesfrom
gloves to riding jackets (the jacket worn by Armstrong during
the Tour de France is very popular!)or high quality saddles.
Gift certificates are also available.
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Stationery
The
Black Cat offers a wide array of stationery, the most striking
of these being the Asian calligraphy and art calendars, and the
various decorated journals, including bubble-textured and paper
mache. These journals ($9.95 and up) are wonderful for the person
who has professed the desire to start writing but who has had
neither the time nor the inclination to purchase a journal. They
also carry cards for all occasions, including beautiful black
and white photographic cards, and an assortment of boxed holiday
cards, which are now 20% off.
Cards,
cards and more cards are what you are bombarded with upon entering
the Paper Garden. This store carries a wide selection of
boxed holiday cards, and it even carries adorable little pop-up
Christmas cards. They carry more than just cards, though. They
also boast an impressive collection of miniature, "themed"
books, with titles such as, "14,000 Things to Be Happy
About."
Messages
is undoubtedly best known for its extensive collection of cards,
but it also boasts a sprawling collection of planners, journals,
address books and calendars. The cards by "Blue Mountain
Arts" are especially unique, and this holiday season Messages
has in stock an incredible supply of boxed holiday cards that
range from cartoonish and goofy to stylish and elegant ($12.99-14.99).
Stepping
into Avril 50, with its heavenly aromas of freshly brewed
coffee and delightful candies and pastries, one cannot help but
notice the distinct foreign and subculture influences that aid
in distinguishing this quaint tobacconist shop from the common
stationery store. While Avril 50 carries a wide selection of rare
cards, planners and journals, it also carries many different French
and subculture magazines, perfect for the reader who yearns for
more sophisticated, and yes, more risqué material than
even "Cosmopolitan." Avril 50 also carries many
different regional and political books, such as Poets of the
Monterey Bay and Foreign Affairs ($7.95). Avril 50
is the stop for the person looking to get a true taste of cultures
out of the mainstream.
CVS
(www.cvs.com)
has many surprises for this years holidays. For those who
are planning to get new decorations this year there are Christmas
lights ($2.49/100 & $5.99/300), wreaths, a two-ft. PVC Christmas
tree ($7.99) and acrylic & plastic Santas ($8.99 - 9.99).
CVS also offers more candies than you can name, from simple ones
in bags ($0.99 - $1.99) to exquisite ones in tins and boxes ($1.99
- $4.99). There are also Snickers Chocolates in a Plastic Liberty
Bell which is creative and unique. If you are a last-minute
shopper, then the wrapped assortment of chocolates by Russell
Stover ($6.99) would be a safe bet. Photo frames ($2.99 - $14.99)
are also available with a special offer of buy one and get
one free if you have the CVS card.
In the lobby
of Sheraton, lies a cosy Gift Shop. It offers many Philadelphia
and Penn memorabilia; there are Flyers sweatshirts and Philly
T-shirts ($13.99 - $24.99), Philly shot glasses ($5.99) and stocking
stuffers such as key chains and magnets. Cuddly toys by Russ are
also available in different colors, from lavender to pitch black
to sparkling green ($6.50-24.99). An interesting gift would be
the piggy bank, shaped like a cute pink pig.
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Outside
the Box
The
Museum Shop carries sculptures for the collector; horse
lovers would appreciate the ceramic Tang Dynasty saddled horse
reproductions ($28). Sand-cast glass Maya Glyphs of ancient Maya
ruins ($50-$125), hand-made drums from Africa along with a large
collection of statues are a welcome addition to any collectors
shelves. A set of Sphinx bookends ($158) or a Tea Chest could
bring a smile to that hard to buy for relative. Shop online at
www.museum.upenn.edu/new/shop/index.shtml.
Visit
the Penn Bookstore online and shop at www.bkstore.com/upenn.
The cut-off dates for Christmas delivery are as follows: regular
UPS 12/17/01; two-day UPS 12/18/01; next-day UPS 12/19/01.
This
season the Computer Connection says, "Let us help
you find the right gift" and offers a gift guide at http://www.business-services.upenn.edu/computerstore/
where holiday shopping is made easier as merchandise is conveniently
organized into price categories (under $25, $50, $100, $200 and
over $200) and a special section just for kids.
Visit
Smith Bros. Jeans online at www.smithbrosjeans.com
where you can shop as well as browse.
Shopping
on-line at www.ems.com
has the advantage of pre-sorted categories targeting shoppers
needs, whether you are shopping for men, women or kids, or if
you are looking for activity-specific gear. EMS on-line also has
sections like "Holiday gift ideas," "Top searches
this week," "Tech toys" and "Stocking stuffers."
www.stevemadden.com
lets you browse and shop for shoes online. Not only is there a
virtual store, gift suggestions, but categories such as "Latest
Trends" and "Top Picks" which gives the clueless
shoppers a glimpse at the hottest in footwear fashions.
Gaps
website, www.gap.com,
not only has outfit ideas, but they have provided their entire
winter print ad campaign; so if you saw something in a magazine
or on a billboard, ordering the items from that very ad is merely
a click away. Though they dont have a campus shop, GapKids
and BabyGap are both on-line at www.gapkids.com
and www.babygap.com.
On
line, www.douglascosmetics.com/
is in the process of being redesigned, but promises better features
for shoppers so keep checking throughout the holidays for their
new and improved website.
Bath
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| Books/Video/Music | Patriotic
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| Holiday/Decorative | Housewares
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