I’m sure we can all agree that after spending so much time at home this year, we need less stuff and more experiences. After all, research has shown that getting among something new leaves a meaningful mark on our memories.
So this Christmas, skip the impersonal candle and opt for helping your loved ones make next year truly magical. The best part? It takes absolutely minimal effort on your part, thanks to BananaLab’s experience gift boxes. A single gift box offers hundreds of epic travel and foodie experiences, from blissful wine tastings to culinary adventures. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up our top picks in and around Sydney—you’re welcome.
Brunswick Heads Brunch
Brunswick Heads
What’s better than brunch? A three-course brunch, that’s what. After all, why should multicourse dining be reserved just for the evening? Make tracks to Brunswick Heads and prepare to indulge in fresh, locally-sourced produce across three delectable courses. The complementary drinks don’t hurt, too.
Get among this experience with the Bucket List Gift Box.
Ultimate Wine Session
Sydney CBD
If you’d like the cellar door experience without the long car ride, opt for our go-to CBD spot; Urban Winery Sydney. It does what it says on the tin, serving up local bottles from their central home in Moore Park. Get the details on red wine from the barrel during this two-hour session, including a complimentary bottle to keep the good vibes going at home.
Get among this experience with the Ultimate Gift Box.
Sydney Staycation With 57 Hotel
Surry Hills
Sometimes you just need a bougie night to yourself without the hassle of travel. Lucky for Sydneysiders, you don’t have to go far to treat yourself. Enjoy a dreamy evening in Surry Hills with 57 Hotel, which is serving full-on New York Studio 54 vibes. It comes with all the trimmings; a King Room, overhead rain shower, free Wi-Fi, and late checkout. Bliss.
Get among this experience with the Moments of Wanderlust Gift Box.
Ultimate Wine Hub Experience
Wollongong
Take to the Grand Pacific Drive and make a beeline for Wollongong, where you’ll find The Wine Hub. Serving top-notch drops and choc, you know you’re in for a good time. Take your tastebuds on a journey as you explore the art of pairing our two favourite flavours, vino and cacao. It’s hard work, but somebody has to do it.
Get among this experience with the Bucket List Gift Box.
Sky Experience at Bar 83
Sydney CBD
Spend a memorable evening for two soaking up retro vibes and a panoramic Sydney skyline, thanks to Bar 83. At 83 floors above street level, it’s no surprise this is the city’s highest watering hole. Down a drink from their extensive list, and order up a small plate to share. Bonus points if you time your tipple to coincide with the sunset. Snacks, good company and a view, what more could you want?
Get among this experience with the Table for Two Gift Box.
Exclusive Tasting Experience With Pepper Tree
Hunter Valley
Dive deep into the history and flavours of the Hunter Valley with a trip to Pepper Tree vineyard. From the bright red cellar door through to the tranquil surrounding gardens, you’ll instantly feel at home here. Head to The Vault for a premium tasting sesh, including a stellar line-up of single-vineyard drops, as well as the all-important cheese board.
Get among this experience with the Table for Two Gift Box.
Brewery Day Out
Sydney CBD
Sample the best of Sydney’s brews with this full-day tour of the city’s best craft beer spots. You’ll get to know it all with a behind the scenes peek into what it takes to perfect the ideal pint. Your expert guide will dish up the details on your brew while you enjoy a selection of samples at each of the destinations. Cap it off with a classic pub lunch, and you’ve got a winner on your hands.
Get among this experience with the Ultimate Gift Box.
Hunter Valley Winery And Grazing Experience
Hunter Valley
Sip your way through the tastes of the Hunter Valley from the comfort of Wine House Hunter Valley. You’ll enjoy a regionally curated selection from a crisp Semillon through to a deeper Shiraz. Topped off with relaxing rural views and a charcuterie board to share, this is the perfect spot to while away the afternoon.
Get among this experience with the Table for Two Gift Box.
Two Night City Staycation
North Sydney
Transform your weekend from street-view to sky-high with a luxury staycation at View Hotel. The name says it all, really—spend two nights enjoying iconic views of the Harbour Bridge from your well-appointed room. What’s more, you can bank on brekky for two with this one. There’s really nothing better than ordering room service in bed, is there?
Get among this experience with the Ultimate Gift Box.
The Ultimate Wine And Picnic Experience
Nashdale, NSW
What could be more iconic than vino and picnics? The team over at Rowlee Wines are making good on this perfect pairing with their sensory wine and picnic experience. Head on over to the Rowlee vineyard on the Cargo Road Wine Trail to get things started. You’ll begin with an immersive tasting, getting up close and personal with the seasons, stories and intricacies of these delicious drops. This is followed by kicking back and enjoying a mega picnic hamper stuffed with artisan cheese and locally sourced produce.
Get among this experience with the Moments of Wanderlust Gift Box.
Tick off your festive to-do list with BananaLab’s experience gift boxes. With a winning selection of food, wine, travel, and adventure experiences on offer, they have you and your loved ones covered.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by BananaLab and proudly endorsed by Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.