India, Dec. 12 -- The older I grow, the more disenchanted I become with possessions. The truth is that like most others of my age, I have accumulated so much stuff over the decades, that I have quite lost the taste for buying anything else. So, when it comes to birthdays and anniversaries, my only request to my family and friends is not to buy me any more stuff but to gift me experiences that they know I would enjoy.

It is in that spirit that I come to you today with advice on what to buy your loved ones for Christmas, which is right around the corner. Steer clear of shiny baubles, bad-taste jumpers, or endless varieties of cakes and pastries. Instead, put your thinking caps on and come up with experiences that you can treat your friends...