Looking for something out of the ordinary to give?

By Sheila Murphy Cantillon
South Coast Beacon

Neckties and fuzzy slippers are staples for holiday gift-buyers. But for those with a little imagination, (and without breaking the bank) there are plenty of alternatives right here in our own backyard. If you’re looking for something a little special — and different — for your loved ones this year, read on. Do you see what I see?

Red Baron Aviation

If the skies are the limit, and you’re shopping for someone with a taste of adventure, consider flying lessons. Red Baron Aviation, at 1601 Cook Place in Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara Airport), offers a number of different packages to satisfy your pocketbook, as well as the bravery level of your loved one. The most popular offering Red Baron has is called the “Discovery Flight.” For $49, your special someone can go up in a private plane for one hour with one of Red Baron’s pilots. The recipient can simply “enjoy the ride,” or have the option of taking over the controls themselves — prior flying experience not necessary! Contact Red Baron at 692.1911.

Peace … on Earth (and right here in Santa Barbara)

Gifts that pamper are always much loved and appreciated. Tamara Jean Peace recently opened her own salon and spa downtown at 37 West Anapamu St. In addition to the typical spa packages, Peace offers unique packages such as Urban Retreat, Enchantment and an “All Day Peace Within” package with includes an herbal wrap, deep conditioning treatment with scalp massage, a hairstyle and blow dry (haircut for men), spa manicure andpedicure, and oxygen facial and a healthy lunch. Adam’s Eden is a new package designed to introduce men to the “spa experience.” Peace is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. 564.3230.

Feng Shui into the New Year

If that special someone on your guest list has expressed a desire to “rid the clutter” from his or her life, you can offer a truly unique gift: the services of Maria Lo Feng Shui Designs. Maria has been practicing Feng Shui for more than 10 years and can help anyone get rid of negative energy and bring life to all corners of a room, whether it be in a home or office. Maria has many testimonials from clients whose lives have been transformed. Call Maria at 302.9851, and give your special someone an exceptional gift that will keep on giving long after the holidays are over.

Climb every mountain

Santa Barbara Outfitters and sister store Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara offer several opportunities for adventure. Santa Barbara Outfitters has a fully functional rock-climbing wall inside the store and different lesson packages. Paddle Sports, located at the Santa Barbara Harbor, offers kayaking trips and gift certificates. If there’s someone on your gift list who is always up for a physical challenge, consider a gift that will surely take him or her to new heights. Santa Barbara Outfitters is located at 1200 State St., and is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays for late night “climbers.” 564.1007.

Junk food basket

Santa Barbara Florists presents one of its more popular “bouquets,” a gift basket filled to the brim with junk food. With a consultant from Santa Barbara Florists you can create together a basket that will send its recipient to new heights of gastronomical pleasure. Chock full of chips, chocolate, candy and pretty much anything sure to send one, literally, into hog heaven, this basket is the ticket for those who aren’t interested in watching their waistlines, or at least have an entire week before a certain new year’s resolution kicks in. 800.399.6991.

Jim Hall’s kart racing school

If you’re into giving something a little “racy” this year, and your gift list includes someone with the need for speed, look into Jim Hall’s Kart Racing School in Ventura. Since 1982, Jim Hall has been teaching aspiring racers, recreational thrill-seekers and the merely curious the skills and focus that define the world’s best racers. Phone 654.1329 or visit the website at www.jhrkartracing.com to find out more about the ultimate thrill.