7 Popular New Year Gift Ideas (That Thais Actually Give!)

So New Year's rolling around and you're scratching your head trying to figure out what to get your friends, coworkers, boss, employees, or Thai relatives?

Don't worry, we've got you covered. Let's dive into what Thais actually love giving each other when the calendar flips!

1. Bird's Nest Beverage or Essence of Chicken Basket

Perfect for: Parents, elders, bosses, seniors

Bird's nest beverage and essence of chicken are gifts Thais love giving for almost every occasion, especially to elders or bosses. They look polite and it's like wishing the recipient good health through these healthy foods.

2. Red Tin Cookies (Imperial Cookie)

Perfect for: Friends, relatives, hosts or neighbors

Ask any Thai what they think of for New Year gifts, and คุกกี้กล่องแดง (khúk-gîi glàwng daaeng) red tin cookies will definitely be one of them. These are actually Imperial Cookies, but because of the distinctive red package, Thais call them "khúk-gîi glàwng daaeng" If you're looking for snacks to give friends or relatives at home, this might be your answer.

3. Household Items

Perfect for: Close family members, adult, friends, couples, or new homeowners

For adults, family members, or friends, daily household items are also very popular gifts in Thailand, like dish sets, towels, or bedding sets. They might look simple, but they're practical gifts that show you care.

4. Thai Snack Basket

Perfect for: Coworkers, classmates, friends or children

Thai snacks are popular gifts and souvenirs. If you're looking for gifts for coworkers, friends, or kids at home, you can buy these snacks and arrange them beautifully in a basket, ready to give right away.

5. Health Products

Perfect for: Family or coworkers

Since bird's nest beverage and essence of chicken are quite expensive, if you're looking for small health gifts that aren't too pricey but Thais commonly give during New Year, supplements, vitamins, or even herbal inhalers could be the answer. These are also popular for New Year.

6. Money

Perfect for: Family, children or employees

If you really can’t think of what to give — and don’t have time to go shopping — giving money as a New Year gift isn’t strange at all. It’s especially common for parents, children, grandchildren, and family members. It’s also a suitable option for anyone looking for a simple gift for their team or employees.

7. Gift Vouchers

Perfect for: Friends, coworkers or employees

Sometimes Thais don't know what to give as gifts either, but giving cash like you would to family doesn't seem appropriate. Lately, gift vouchers have become increasingly popular New Year gifts because recipients can actually use them how they want. Perfect for giving to friends and employees at work.

However, the heart of New Year gift-giving isn't the item or its value, but the intention and good wishes that the giver gives to the receiver.

And if the person you're looking for gifts for wants to learn Thai, this New Year is a perfect time!

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