By Danny Vincent
iPhone G3
Being able to carry the Internet around in your pocket is an attractive prospect to expats in China, and with upgraded features and 3G capability, the newest version of the iPhone will always be a welcomed stocking filler. It is at over 3,000 yuan ($440) an expensive gift, but remains head and shoulders above domestic mp3 integrated phones.
Olympic and 2008
Focus photo albums
The Year of the Rat may best be remembered for a mixture of triumph and disaster in China, with the Olympics in August and the devastating snowstorms and earthquake earlier in the year which shook the nation. China Daily's photobooks capture every moving moment in the year which the world will never forget. The books retail at 100 yuan ($15).
Mao memorabilia
From army jackets to heavy-duty hats, winter is as good a time as any for practical and iconic Mao memorabilia. Any souvenir stall or market will have a range of symbolic mementos.
'Cultural revolution' posters
Pop into a market in any town, village or city across China and you'll find a large selection of 1960s China posters to wallpaper your house. The iconic designs, which include symbolic images of Mao and model workers, offer interesting insights into the nation's past and a quick fix present for any expat.
Traditional Chinese outfits
With Chinese New Year approaching a traditional silk qipao may be the perfect outfit to see in 2009, while men can pass the winter evenings in traditional Chinese silk robe. Vendors at local markets say bargaining prices begin at 150 yuan ($22).
Holiday to Jiuzhaigou
Support the Sichuan economy by visiting the marvels of Jiuzhaigou valley, a scenic wonderland with unparalleled views, magical fables and folk law. The valley is located in Nanping County north of Chengdu City and is considered a must-see place in China.
Nintendo Wii
With a mountain of new releases in 2008, the Nintendo Wii can keep both children and adults alike entertained in post present opening boredom. The sports bundle pack may also help to work off the calories from Christmas indulgence.
Ugg boots
The sheepskin boots are fast becoming the must-have gift for the lady around town this winter. Both warm and trendy, a pair will set you back around 100 yuan in markets.
Chery QQ
Dubbed one of the cheapest cars in the world, the Chinese-made automobile may be an unlikely but affordable choice for Xmas. The car costs between 30,000-50,000 yuan.
Cooking lessons
With an overload of traditional Christmas cuisine, home made Chinese food may make a nice alternative. With classes up and down the country, buying lessons for Xmas can give expats a head start in fulfilling their new year resolution. Lessons cost about 300 yuan per person. For information on nationwide lessons please visit - http://hiasgourmet.com/cookingclass.htm.
Pearls
With the oldest pearl producing system in the world, Chinese pearl jewelry is famous for its bright colors and styles. Bargaining prices at local markets start at 160 yuan ($24) for pendants, necklaces and earrings.
Flying Pigeon
With an estimated half-billion Flying Pigeon bicycles in use throughout China, the iconic bike is the standalone choice for two-wheeled nostalgia. Produced in 1950 it quickly became a symbol of China. Today the company produces both traditional and modern frames. The original style bicycle retails at around 300 yuan ($44). For more information visit - http://www.flying-pigeon.cn/eindex.asp.
(China Daily December 22, 2008)