Trader Joe’s has been popping off lately, thanks to the holiday season. The grocer always brings out the big guns once Christmas starts creeping up – my favorite items being the Dark Chocolate Stars, Candy Cane Joe-Joe's, Jingle Jangle, and Candy Cane Green Tea, just to name a few.
If you’re also an avid TJ’s shopper, you know the vibe. This year, share all the Trader Joe’s love with your loved ones by getting some of your gift shopping done at the beloved store. These 15 Trader Joe’s gifts are all under $13, and span across food and non-food gift ideas so you can perfect your holiday haul.
Scroll on to see the best Trader Joe’s gifts to give this year!
Trader Joe's Food Gifts
Trader Joe's
Rum Balls
These fudgy bites are infused with rum, making them one of the best gifts for your pal who loves all things boozy.
Trader Joe's
Cocoa Berry Black Tea Blend
Give the tea lover in your life a box of this fruity-yet-warm tea blend alongside a mug (new or thrifted!) for an adorable gift. You'll definitely want to snag a box for yourself, too.
Trader Joe's
Hot Chocolate Stirring Spoon
This $1 hot chocolate spoon makes such a great, yummy stocking stuffer. I'll absolutely be grabbing a minimum of 15 to give to friends and family.
Trader Joe's
Boozy Bottles
This 9-pack of "sweet and sophisticated" chocolate bottles will instantly get the Christmas party started, thanks to the cognac liqueur inside of 'em.
Trader Joe's
Dark Chocolate Dipped French Butter Cookies
You truly can't go wrong with chocolate when it comes to Trader Joe's gifts. Case in point: these "exquisite" dark choc-dipped butter cookies!
Trader Joe's
Crunchy Chili Onion
This chili and onion jar can be used as a dressing, dip, or cooking agent. The crunch is the best part! Just pop a cute lil' bow on this bad boy to totally nail your foodie's stocking stuffer.
Trader Joe's
La Burgondie Cremant De Bourgogne Rose Brut
This $12 raspberry-flavored wine is full of "delicate and refreshingly crisp" sips. It makes the perfect gift to give a host or simply just the wino in your life.
Trader Joe's
Cinnamon Spiced Coffee
Coffee snobs will go crazy for the cinnamon-y goodness of these beans. Try pairing it with TJ's Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins to seal the deal!
Non-Food Trader Joe's Gifts
Trader Joe's
Candy Cane Body Scrub
This coarse, yet nourishing body scrub will give your giftee a taste of the holidays with a refreshing candy cane scent that blooms in every shower.
Trader Joe's
Orange & Spice Scented Candle & Room Spritz
Anyone who loves a good scent will adore this spicy orange duo!
Trader Joe's
Body Wash & Serum Duo
If they still haven't tried any Trader Joe's beauty goodies, this gift set is the perfect pick!
Trader Joe's
Hyaluronic Moisture Boost Serum
Instantly upgrade their winter skincare routine with this hyaluronic serum that expertly locks in the skin's natural moisture. It's only $9!
Trader Joe's
Brazil Nut Body Trio
This gift set hosts possibly one of TJ's most viral body care scents, Brazil Nut. Many shoppers say it's a nice dupe for the Sol De Janeiro Bum Bum Cream. Using the body butter, body oil, and body mist in conjunction will have your giftee smelling heavenly!
Trader Joe's
Lip Butter Balm Duo
This fan-fave Summer Fridays dupe can hang right on the Christmas tree for a nice December 25 surprise!
Trader Joe's
Ultra Moisturizing Hand Cream Trio
The same goes for this adorable hand cream trio, which includes scents like olive oil, cherry blossom, and lavender.
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Target has so many good fashion finds, and the best part is you can easily track down luxe-looking styles that don’t have that luxe-level price tag. Their A New Day line in particular is packed with everything from everyday basics to statement pieces, all of which won’t break the bank. Everything they sell is my style to a tee, plus I truly can’t get over their shoe game. I scrolled through the entire A New Day collection and found 15 amazingly affordable styles you can wear everywhere!
Scroll to see the best A New Day finds at Target to shop now!
A New Day Clothing Finds
Target
Button-Front Vest
Vests totally became the official-unofficial cool girl uniform over the summer, but that doesn't mean you can't wear one well into winter. Pair this pick with matching trousers and kitten heels for an unforgettably sleek outfit!
Target
Long Sleeve Midi A-Line Dress
The bubble hem on this midi dress feels oh-so fancy for special occasions like dinner parties and cocktail hours. I think the off-the-shoulder moment is super flattering, too!
Target
Maxi Slip Skirt
Channel your inner '90s fashionista with this $28 slip skirt that comes in 8 different stylish colors. You can style it with practically everything from sweaters (for colder months) to tank tops (for warmer months).
Target
Classic Trench Coat
Put on a trench coat once, and you'll instantly feel like that girl. This $45 jacket is the perfect excuse to layer up this winter!
Target
Slim Fit Long Sleeve Ribbed Boat Neck T-Shirt
This long sleeve tee is quite literally perfect. The boat neck is flattering and feminine, plus I love that the overall fit isn't too tight nor too loose – just comfy enough! You can wear it with everything this winter and spring.
Target
Faux Fur Jacket
Yeah, this jacket is it. Not only is it gonna make a statement, it'll keep you quite cozy and warm!
Target
Faux Suede Midi A-Line Skirt
This $35 faux suede skirt had me fooled for real suede, making it one of the best luxe-looking A New Day finds at Target right now. The paneling is super neat, adding a good amount of visual interest to this gorgeously unique terra cotta color.
Target
Long Sleeve Midi Sweater Dress
Sweater dresses are in their prime this time of year, but it can be hard to find one that checks off all my boxes. Luckily, this $40 knit one is just modest enough, but has plenty of playful details to make it feel more elegant: the leg slit and turtleneck look adorable.
Target
Ballon Long Sleeve Tie Front Blouse
This Scandi-style tie-up top is ideal for work outfits and low-key weekend outings. I will never get over the bows! It also comes in a serene purple color and a bold zebra print, if that's more your vibe.
Target
High-Rise Wide Leg Pleated Front Trousers
The extra-wide legs on these pleated trousers are right in line with today's trends, plus, they're uber-flattering for any figure. I love the idea of wearing them with ballet flats or chunky boots for a sophisticated 'fit!
Target
Long Sleeve Knit Ballet Maxi Dress
You can do all the swirling and twirling in this cute maxi dress! The length hits right around the shins so you can still show off your favorite winter boots.
A New Day Shoe Finds
Target
Gigi Embellished Slingback Kitten Heels
Now onto the best part – shoes! A New Day carries a ton of trendy styles, one of which is these sparkling kitten heels. The mesh + rhinestone combo can't be beat, Plus, they're only $30 – perfect for picking up ahead of holiday party season.
Target
Donna Ankle Boots
You can't ever go wrong with a solid pair of black boots. These ankle booties feature a bold pointed toe and block heel to keep every step comfortable.
Target
Jordan Loafer Flats
Put some preppy-ness in your step with these chunky loafers! Their limited black and white color palette allows you to easily match them with any outfit.
Target
Issa Mesh Mary Jane Ballet Flats
These mesh ballet flats are everything. They feel super bougie but will only run you $35, which is a fraction of what similar designs go for elsewhere.
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Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.
Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.
Venice, Italy
Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.
Bali, Indonesia
Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.
Willian Justen de Vasconcellos
Machu Picchu, Peru
Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.
Tulum, Mexico
Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.
Santorini, Greece
Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.
Reykjavík, Iceland
Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.
Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)
This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.
Kyoto, Japan
Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.
Mount Everest, Nepal
The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.
Lisbon, Portugal
Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.
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Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.
If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.
The Noshery
Mantecaditos con Guayaba
These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)
Broma Bakery
Meringues
French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)
Pretty. Simple. Sweet.
Alfajores
Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)
Fancy Peasant
Melomakarona
These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)
Very Eatalian
Baci di Dama
The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)
Cooking Classy
Linzer Cookies
These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)
Olivia’s Cuisine
Basler Brunsli
If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)
Cilantro Parsley
Buñuelos
These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)
Chef Lindsey Farr
Apricot Kolachys
The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)
Life, Love and Sugar
Cutout Sugar Cookies
In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)
Saveur
Polvorones
You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)
A Healthy Life for Me
Pignoli
These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)
Fancy Peasant
Kourabiedes
These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)
Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.