Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who enjoys exploring historical sites and landmarks, there are some meaningful and personal gift ideas that can enhance his passion and create memorable experiences. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Historical travel guidebooks: Encourage his explorations with comprehensive travel guidebooks that highlight historical sites and landmarks around the world. Look for books with detailed descriptions, maps, and insider tips to enhance his trip planning. Some renowned guidebook series include Lonely Planet, National Geographic, and DK Eyewitness Travel Guides.

2. Virtual reality (VR) headset: Transport your son to historical sites and landmarks without leaving home with a virtual reality headset. VR technology allows users to immerse themselves in virtual worlds and experience virtual tours of historical places. Look for VR headsets compatible with his smartphone or gaming console, such as the Oculus Rift or HTC Vive.

3. Heritage DNA test: Help your son delve deeper into his own family history by gifting him a heritage DNA test. These tests analyze an individual's DNA to trace their ancestry and provide insights into their historical roots. Companies like 23andMe and AncestryDNA offer comprehensive kits that provide detailed reports on ethnicity, migration patterns, and ancestors, allowing your son to discover his place in history.

4. Historical documentaries and movies: Expand his knowledge and keep him entertained with a collection of historical documentaries and movies. Look for films and series that focus on specific historical periods or significant landmarks. Some popular options include Ken Burns' documentaries, BBC's "Planet Earth" series, or historical movies like "Schindler's List" or "Lawrence of Arabia."

5. Historical walking tour or travel experience: Consider booking a historical walking tour or travel experience for your son. Many cities offer guided tours that explore notable landmarks and historical neighborhoods. Choose a destination that he has always wanted to visit or select a tour that explores a specific theme, such as ancient civilizations, medieval castles, or World War II sites.

6. Historical books and biographies: Enhance his knowledge with a collection of historical books and biographies. Choose books that align with his specific interests, such as a biography of a favorite historical figure or a book focused on a specific historical event or place. Popular authors in this genre include Erik Larson, Stacy Schiff, or David McCullough.

7. Customized historical map or artwork: Get a personalized gift by commissioning a custom historical map or artwork. These can depict a specific historical site or landmark that holds significance for your son. An alternative could be a vintage-style map print of a city he's particularly interested in or a painting inspired by a specific era or historical event.

Remember, the best gifts are those that show your son that you've taken the time to understand his interests and passions. By choosing a gift that aligns with his love for exploring historical sites and landmarks, you're giving him a meaningful present that will ignite his curiosity and create lasting memories.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”