It was a cold December night in 2021, the coronavirus had once again made its strike. All stores were closed and all students were broke. This is the story, you’ll tell your grandkids one day, only a lot more exaggerated. Because to be fair, it being a world crisis, it’s quite a boring one to tell, isn’t it? But every Christmas story needs a happy ending, we’re here to help you with that. You’re welcome. Here are five stores that are still open to buy your holiday presents!
1. Drugstores
To start with the easiest one: drugstores. Stores like Etos and Kruidvat are still open and offer quite some possibilities. These stores are your go-to for scented candles, bath bombs, face masks and shower gel gift sets (for that cousin you actually know nothing about). Not unimportant, Kruidvat sells wrapping paper! Still got some youngsters in the family? Kruidvat even sells toys. Another tip, do you have a family member crazy obsessed with a Dutch football club? Kruidvat also sells shower gels from a few football clubs. Tip: buy one from the club they don’t support. Laughs guaranteed.
2. International supermarkets
International supermarkets, or tokos (in local language), offer some present ideas as well. Buy hot sauce that’s actually spicy, not like the one Albert Heijn sells, for your uncle that’s obsessed with spicy food. Buy American candy that your family hasn’t tried yet or go for a completely unknown world kitchen. Tip: there’s one in Spaarndammerstraat that isn’t as expensive as the ones in the centre!
3. Gall & Gall
Believe it or not, alcohol is very essential to our government. Good news for us, because alcohol is an easy gift for those people in the family you don’t know that well. A simple gin or whisky is a safe buy. However, most Gall & Gall stores also sell mini bottles of limoncello, 43, Disaronno, and more! Mix and match to get an original present. Once again, you’re welcome.
4. The pets store
For your aunt that keeps showing you videos of her cat, we’ve got the pet store! We, humans, are important, but so are our pets. Therefore, pet stores are still open as well. Buy a fun little toy for your aunt’s cat et voilà, done.
5. A big branch of a supermarket
Go to a bigger supermarket than the one around the corner! If you go to a bigger Dirk or Albert Heijn, it’s a whole new world. For example, Dirk sells rice cookers. Bet you didn’t know that. Albert Heijn sells candles, ornaments (tip: a beer crate ornament for your brother), plants, tableware, pens and socks. Dirk sells wine glasses, and even better: fireworks!
We ended this article with fireworks. If that isn’t a happy ending. Good luck with your present shopping. We wish you happy holidays and also some strength. You know, in case you end up sitting next to your racist uncle.