usatoday--2020-12-05--50+ amazing gifts that men actually want

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
Neckties , whiskey stones , another Amazon gift card—while `` traditional '' gifts for men are always a safe bet , this year , take your gift-giving up a notch by giving the guys in your life something they 'll actually like ( and actually use ) .
At Reviewed , we 've spent the last few weeks scouring the Internet for all of the top gifts that men want this year .
Whether it 's for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boyfriend , or your brother , these are the best gifts for men of 2020 , based on our experts ' knowledge and testing along with shoppers ' ratings and reviews .
Some of the top picks this holiday season ?
Our favorite noise-cancelling headphones , the Gravity weighted blanket everyone 's obsessed with , and the crazy popular Nintendo Switch .
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While Yeti makes our all-time favorite cooler @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out nearly $ 1,000 ( !
! )
for his gift .
Fortunately , you can get him the Yeti he loves at a more affordable price point ( i.e .
less than $ 25 ) with the popular Rambler mug .
Made of double vacuum-insulated stainless steel , it has nearly 12,000 reviews on Amazon for keeping coffee steaming hot ( or their water ice cold ) for hours .
Get the Yeti Rambler Mug from Amazon for $ 24.99 2 .
For the sweatshirt collector : Patagonia Better Sweater Name a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patagonia pullover ... we 'll wait .
The knit fleece is so popular for a lot of reasons besides the fact that it looks good—it 's also cozy yet breathable , high-quality ( so he can wear it for years to come ) , and made with recycled materials .
Get the Patagonia Better Sweater Quarter-Zip Pullover from REI for $ 119 3 .
For the student of life : Masterclass A subscription to Masterclass is the perfect gift for anyone who loves to learn ( or someone who just does n't need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
MasterClass is an e-learning platform in which extremely famous people present a series of video lectures about their working methods .
`` David Lynch Teaches Creativity and Film '' and `` Annie Leibovitz Teaches Photography '' are just a few .
There 's a staggering level of talent to be found within these virtual ivy walls .
MasterClass 's roster contains over 65 of the most high-achieving people in their respective industries .
Maybe he 's an audiophile or maybe he likes not dealing with a pesky wire when he 's out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason , every guy appreciates a good pair of wireless earbuds—and according to our experts , it does n't get any better than Apple AirPods Pro .
Not only do the recognizable white earbuds have a more comfortable fit , but the upgraded AirPods Pro also use active noise cancellation technology so he can listen to his tunes in peace .
Get the Apple AirPods Pro at Best Buy for $ 219.99 If they 're good enough for Tom Brady , they 're good enough for the guy in your life .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these suede slippers are lined with the plush shearling that Ugg boots are so famous for and that will keep his feet warm and comfortable all day long .
Get the Men 's UGG Scuff Slipper from Amazon for $ 79.95 6 .
For the one who appreciates the finer things : Mark & Graham Personalized Leather Wallet Upgrade his old worn-in wallet with this luxe one from popular leather brand Mark & Graham .
The wallet has tons of rave reviews for being incredible quality and the perfect size for holding all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bulky .
Bonus : You can even get it personalized with his monogram .
Get the Leather Money Clip Wallet from Mark and Graham for $ 44.99 If you own a TV , you need a streaming box .
The Roku Ultra ( 2019 edition ) , our top-rated streaming device , costs a lot less than an Apple TV device , but it ’ s easier to use and works with all the major streaming services .
The best trick ?
The 2019 version of the Ultra has added the Apple TV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all your iTunes purchases .
Get the Roku Ultra from Amazon for $ 93.33 While Bose ’ s excellent Quiet Comfort headphones have owned the noise cancelling space for years , Sony is the new champ in town , topping our ratings .
Now widely regarded as the best all-around noise canceling headphones you can get , the Sony 1000XM4s offer superb sound quality , cancel out ambient noise beautifully , and are supremely comfy for long flights , train rides , or just working at your desk .
Get the Sony @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 298 Amazon has finally updated its best all-around Kindle with more storage , a more even backlight , a lighter and thinner design , and waterproofing .
The Kindle Paperwhite was already the no-brainer choice for anyone who wants the best e-reader you can buy , and the newest updates just cement that reputation .
Get the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite from Amazon for $ 129.99 10 .
For the sporty yet stylish man : Allbirds or Adidas Sneakers Sneakers are having a major moment right now—so get him in on the trend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ influencers are wearing .
Maybe that 's Allbirds , washable wool sneakers that you see on every third person walking down the street ( and that our editors are obsessed with ! )
.
Or maybe it 's a pair of classic Adidas sneakers like the Stan Smiths which have hundreds of five-star reviews and that are giving us all the nostalgic feels .
• Get the Men 's Wool Runners from Allbirds for $ 95 • Get the Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers from Nordstrom for $ 48 The Nintendo Switch has become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been selling out all year long .
Whether you ’ re buying for a young gamer looking for family-friendly titles , a young person who wants to play the latest and greatest , or a classic gamer jonesing for a nostalgia fix , the Switch has it all .
Get the Nintendo Switch from Amazon for $ 299.99 12 .
For the guy who wants to relax : Gravity Weighted Blanket Cozy blankets have always been a great gift but this year , it 's all about the weighted blanket .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're said to be super comfortable , reduce stress , and even help you fall asleep faster .
We tried some of the top-rated weighted blankets and found that the Gravity Blanket provided just the right amount of pressure and feels extremely luxurious .
Get the Gravity Blanket from Gravity for $ 189 Steak , burgers , bacon , oh my !
He 'll get all of the above—and plenty more—with a subscription to ButcherBox .
The trendy meat delivery service offers a vast selection of high-quality meat and seafood ( it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can pick and choose from each month .
I 've used it myself multiple times and loved how convenient it was and how tasty all of my cuts were ( the burgers were arguably the best I 've ever made ! )
.
Whether it ’ s game day or just a busy Wednesday , sometimes you just want something quick , easy , and delicious .
Air fryers aren ’ t the most health-conscious products in the world , but they do a good job of providing crispy food without the mess @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This Philips model won our roundup of the best air fryers , excelling in most of our testing .
Want something a little more adventurous ?
You could set this person up with a gift card to Home Chef , which won our roundup of the best meal kit delivery services , giving them tasty ready-to-make meals a few times a week .
Get the Philips Airfryer XXL on Amazon for $ 299.95 15 .
For the one who needs a massage : Theragun He does n't have to leave the house to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the very trendy Theragun .
One of our staff members put the handheld massager to the test and liked that it was powerful ( perfect for kneading out knots ) and could get to even the hardest-to-reach spots .
Get the Theragun Elite from Theragun for $ 399 If you ’ re buying a laptop for a student ( or anyone who needs a great laptop ) , the HP Envy x360 is just about the best all-around option for the money .
Its performance is good enough for everyday tasks like surfing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its long eight-hour battery life means your giftee can use it all day long .
But perhaps what we like best is its 2-in-1 form function that allows you to use the Envy as a tablet , too .
Get the HP Envy x360 from HP Store Ask any chef or serious cook : an 8-inch Chef ’ s Knife is a must-have .
This Henckels model is almost universally praised by online shoppers and won our roundup of the best chef ’ s knives , easily slicing through the competition in our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go with it , I personally love the $ 50 Epicurean Gourmet Series cutting board , which is beautiful , functional , excelled in our testing , and is even dishwasher-safe .
Get the Henckels Zwilling Pro 8-Inch Chef ’ s Knife from Zwilling for $ 149.99 18 .
For the fashionable but cold : Canada Goose Chateau Slim Fit Down Parka Yes , it 's possible to look good even when the temperatures drop below freezing .
Canada Goose continues to be a favorite with our readers .
The `` Chateau '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the bulkier coats that Canada Goose makes , but the 625-fill-power duck down will easily contend with blustery winter winds .
Draw strings at the waist and hood help seal in the warmth .
Get the Canada Goose Chateau Slim Fit Down Parka from Nordstrom for $ 995 At Reviewed , we love voice-controlled smart speakers like the Amazon Echo , but the diminutive ( and affordable ) Echo Dot is a perfect way to bring that functionality to other rooms in your house .
It 's our top pick if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Echo .
I use mine in the kitchen , where it ’ s perfect for streaming music while I cook , setting timers , or entertaining my kids .
Get the Amazon Echo Dot ( 4th Gen , 2020 ) from Amazon for $ 29.99 20 .
For the always prepared : Leatherman Wave Multitool Even if he doesn ’ t need a multitool , most every guy wants one—or at least to have one when the moment calls for it .
The Leatherman Wave easily won our roundup of the best multitools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performance , has excellent user reviews , and comes with a 25-year warranty .
If you go this route , we also highly recommend picking up a pair of the best work gloves we ’ ve tested : Carharrt Men ’ s Grain Leather Work Gloves .
Get the Leatherman Wave at Home Depot for $ 99.97 21 .
For the guy who likes convenience : Dollar Shave Club The last thing any man wants to do after a long day at work is go back out to the store because he ran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realize it in the morning when it 's too late and he has a 9 a.m. meeting ) .
Enter a subscription to Dollar Shave Club , which is one of our favorite subscription boxes of the year .
It 'll keep him stocked with all the necessary shaving essentials delivered right to his doorstep .
Experts are predicting it 's going to be colder than usual this winter .
Help him stay warm with a knit beanie from Carhartt .
According to its nearly 24,000 ( !
! )
reviews on Amazon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parts comfy and cozy and has the durable quality that Carhartt is so famous for .
Get the Carhartt Acrylic Hat from Amazon for $ 16.99 Fact : Beer tastes better poured out of a tap .
If he agrees , get him the uKeg from GrowlerWerks .
Made of vacuum-insulated stainless steel , the growler/keg combo has gotten a thumbs up from over 1,000 reviewers who say it keeps their beer ice cold and carbonated ( you can even customize the carbonation level ) all day long .
And whenever he 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use the tap dispenser to pour the perfect pint .
Get the GrowlerWerks uKeg from Amazon for $ 159 24 .
For the sports fiend : Under Armour gear Maybe he loves playing sports or maybe he loves watching them .
Regardless , the athlete in him will appreciate some Under Armour gear this holiday .
While there 's plenty of apparel , shoes , and accessories to shop from the beloved brand , you ca n't go wrong with a pair of the best-selling fleece joggers and • Get the Men 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 39.99 • Get the Men 's UA Hustle Fleece Hoodie from Under Armour for $ 34.99 • Shop all men 's gear at Under Armour The Vizio M Series Quantum is simply jaw-dropping .
It has 4K and HDR compatibility , awesome picture quality , and offers quantum dot performance at an affordable price .
It ’ s the best TV under $ 500 we ’ ve tested this year ( the 55-inch version hovers just around $ 500 depending on when you look ) .
Get the Vizio M Series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 522.99 Smart watches are fun and all , but a traditional wristwatch is still a timeless way to complete an outfit .
This Skagen Signatur watch is simple , but pairs perfectly with casual and formal outfits .
I own two Skagen watches myself and I wear them all the time .
If you ’ re buying for someone who likes a little more pizazz in their wardrobe , MVMT Watches also makes a huge array of stylish , affordable timepieces with great reviews .
Get the Skagen Signatur Leather Watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For beards of all shapes and sizes : Wahl Clippers Beard Trimmer The Wahl Clippers Stainless Steel Beard Trimmer won our roundup of the best beard trimmers , with its top-notch battery life , trimming ability , and professional-quality build .
It ’ s not waterproof , but it is easy to keep clean , so if you ’ re buying for someone with a beard , they ’ ll appreciate this one .
Get the Wahl Clippers Beard Trimmer from Amazon for $ 71.78 28 .
For the man who 's obsessed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Subscription Help him get his lawn ready for next spring with a subscription to Sunday Lawn Care .
The popular new service will deliver shipments of custom nutrients for his yard based on the soil , climate , location , etc .
to help his grass thrive .
Happy customers say they 've seen amazing results and they love that the subscription comes with all the tools they need .
29 .
For the guy who lives in sweatpants : Zella Joggers These days , it seems like loungewear is most people 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfortable yet stylish when he 's hanging out at home , give him a pair of these trendy Zella joggers .
They have a high rating on Nordstrom for being great quality and super soft .
Get the Zella Pyrite Slim Fit Jogger Pants from Nordstrom for $ 59 30 .
For the gym rat : Herschel Supply Co. Outfitter Convertible Duffle Bag Duffel bags are definitely the black sheep of the bag family—that ’ ll happen when you mostly stuff dirty , smelly things in them—but they don ’ t have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ duffel looks good enough you could bring it to the office , but it ’ s functional enough to work as a daily gym bag or on as a day trip carry-on .
Get the Herschel Supply Co .
Novel Duffel Bag from Nordstrom for $ 100 If you ’ re buying for someone who really loves coffee , the Sterling Double Wall French Press is perfect .
It is double insulated so it keeps coffee nice and hot , it looks fantastic , it works for everything from frothed milk to hot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it 's the best French press we 've ever tested .
Best of all , it ’ s about a third the price of many other stainless steel French presses , meaning it ’ ll feel like your gift cost way more than it actually does .
Get the SterlingPro Double Wall French Press from Amazon for $ 36.86 32 .
For those who always put off cleaning : Eufy Robovac 11S Robot vacuums aren ’ t enough to keep your whole place clean , but they do a good job of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you just don ’ t have the time .
He 'll appreciate this one from Eufy , which is our favorite affordable robot vacuum this year .
It picked up the most dirt per run in our testing and is incredibly quiet while it cleans .
Get the Eufy Robovac 11S from Amazon for $ 149.99 33 .
For the music lover : Sonos One SL Wireless Speaker People adore their Sonos systems , and the Sonos One SL is the best way to get in on the act .
Just a single @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beautiful music that is so , so much nicer than what you get from basic smart speakers like the Amazon Echo .
The One SL can stream from all the most popular music services , works with Alexa , and can even be paired with a second One SL for wireless stereo sound .
Get the Sonos One SL from Amazon for $ 139 Whether you ’ re buying for a hardcore athlete or someone just trying to get up off the couch more , the Fitbit Charge 4 is the way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an easy-to-navigate menu , activity tracking , a heart-rate monitor , and sleep tracking , as well as one of the better apps of any other smart fitness tracking watch .
Buying for someone truly hardcore ?
The Garmin Forerunner 235 offers much better activity and heart rate tracking as well as GPS for tracking your runs .
Get the Fitbit Charge 4 Fitness Tracker at Amazon for $ 139 Whether he 's heading to work , the gym , or the store , he needs to stay hydrated when he 's out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water bottles out there , we recommend this one from Brita .
Not only will it keep his water cold for hours on end but it also filters his water while he drinks .
Get the Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle from Amazon for $ 19.94 36 .
For the one who likes to relax : Parachute Classic Bathrobe He might not be at a five-star resort in the middle of the Caribbean but he can feel like he is with this luxe robe that everyone 's buying right now .
Made of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so cozy that some reviewers even compare it to being wrapped up in a cloud .
Get the Classic Bathrobe from Parachute for $ 99 37 .
For the guy who wants a drone : Potensic T25 Most high-quality drones will cost you $ 500 and up , which can be pricey if you aren ’ t sure you are going to get a lot of use out of it .
The Potensic T25 is our favorite drone under $ 200 , making it an awesome way to practice flying ( and crashing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money .
Despite the price , you ’ re still getting an included 1080p camera and smart features like hovering , decent battery life , and a “ Follow Me ” mode .
Get the Potensic T25 from Amazon for $ 159.99 38 .
For the one who hates shopping : MeUndies Subscription He might not like going to the mall but that does n't mean he should n't have nice things—specifically , nice underwear .
Give him the gift of MeUndies , which will deliver comfortable , high-quality underwear right to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used the service and says it 's the softest underwear he 's ever worn .
39 .
For the self groomer : Manscaped Lawn Mower Do n't be fooled by the name—the Manscaped Lawn Mower is actually a razor , and a good one at that .
Made popular on Shark Tank , one of our writers tested it for himself and liked that it was powerful yet quiet and has a comfortable-to-hold design that 's also easy to maneuver .
Get the Manscaped Lawn Mower for $ 69.99 There 's something about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grill that ca n't be matched .
So you ca n't go wrong with a barbecue-themed gift like this highly-rated 20-piece set of grilling tools , which has over 2,000 positive reviews .
People like that it has everything you could ever need for a backyard BBQ ( from spatulas to tongs to skewers to even corn cob holders ) and that the tools are made of high-quality , durable stainless steel .
Get the Cuisinart Deluxe Grilling Tool Set from Wayfair for $ 58.99 41 .
For the guy constantly traveling : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Our top-rated carry-on luggage , the Samsonite Flexis 21 '' Spinner features tough , nimble wheels that should last for years of hard use .
It offers 2,520 cubic inches of packing space .
The inside of the suitcase boasts a large open area with elastic retention straps for securing your clothes or packing cubes into place , as well as mesh stash pockets for organizing smaller items .
On the inside of the bag ’ s lid , you ’ ll find a zippered , mesh compartment that ’ s perfect for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were particularly impressed with the self-healing YKK Strong Grip Zip .
If one of the bag ’ s zippers gets messed up ( but doesn ’ t break ) , zipping and unzipping it should make it as good as new .
Get the Samsonite Flexis 21 '' Spinner from Amazon for $ 239.94 42 .
For the guy who loses everything : Tile Mate If his favorite phrase is `` Has anyone seen my keys ?
! ''
he will benefit from a Tile Mate .
The number one item finder on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ onto his key ring and can locate things over 200 feet away .
Users praise its long battery life and the loud volume of the ringer ( no way those keys are going to get away from him next time ! )
.
Get the Tile Mate from Amazon for $ 24.99 43 .
For guys who love a hot sauce kick : The Good Hurt Fuego Hot Sauce Sampler Pack With 7 different flavors of hot sauce and a clever packaging design , this sampler pack from Thoughtfully is a standout gift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 4.5-star rating on Amazon with over 93 reviews .
The spices range from mild to very hot , including even the fabled Ghost Pepper .
Note : the price has gone up from $ 34 to $ 39 recently .
Get the Hot Sauce Sampler Pack from Amazon for $ 29.99 44 .
For the guy who values comfort : Bombas Socks Never underestimate the value of a good pair of socks .
He—and his feet—will be more than happy with these ones from Bombas , the highly talked-about brand that 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) socks .
The best part ?
For every pair purchased , another pair is donated to someone in need .
Get the Men 's Marls Ankle 6-Pack from Bombas for $ 68.40 Whiskey just hits different when it 's poured from a 1920s-style decanter instead of the bottle—and he knows that , so he 'll be excited to break out this gift the next time he has his colleagues over for a glass of scotch .
According to hundreds of reviewers ( who give the set a 4.7-star rating ) , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it is luxe and distinguished .
Get the James Scott 5 Piece Crystal Decanter Set from Amazon for $ 39.98 Maybe he 's a regular at hot yoga or maybe he wants to start stretching more next year .
No matter his level of down dog , he 'll love our experts ' number one yoga mat from Lululemon .
It provides just the right amount of cushioning and has a non-slip surface that is perfect for even the sweatiest of workouts .
Get the Reversible Mat 5 MM from Lululemon for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who enjoys getting dressed up : Monogram Cufflinks Cuff links are a tried-and-true holiday gift .
And while there are plenty to choose from online , one of the most popular pairs is this personalized set on Etsy , which has over 30,000 ( !
! )
happy reviews .
According to customers , the cuff links ( which you can get monogrammed with a matching monogrammed wood box ) look even better in person and are great quality .
Get the Men 's Square Classic Cuff Links from Etsy for $ 19.79 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything : AncestryDNA Kit Is he really Prince William 's long-lost second cousin ?
Probably not—but he can find out who he is related to , along with other fascinating genetic and family info , with a home DNA kit .
AncestryDNA is one of the most well-known ( and most popular ) ones available because it 's very detailed and all he 'll need to get started is a simple saliva sample .
Get AncestryDNA from Ancestry starting at $ 59 An umbrella may not seem like the most exciting gift but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ umbrella .
It 's the fanciest one we 've ever tested but it 's well worth the splurge .
It will keep him dry in a downpour ( and will hold up well on windy days , too ) and is made with quick-drying , durable fabric that will last for years to come .
Get the Davek Solo Umbrella from Amazon for $ 115 50 .
For the new homeowner : Logitech Circle 2 Indoor/Outdoor Camera As someone who just got the keys to my first home , there ’ s one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times : a wireless camera to keep an eye on things .
The Logitech Circle 2 is the best pick , as it ran away with our roundup of the best smart indoor security cameras .
It ’ s affordable , easy to use , comes with free 24-hour storage , works indoors and out , and is compatible with Apple HomeKit , Alexa , and Google .
Get the Logitech Circle 2 Indoor/Outdoor Security Camera from Logitech for $ 179.99 51 .
For the one who 's always on his phone : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but could come back in stock soon !
Let 's be real : No man has time for a dead phone .
Keep his device fully charged with our experts ' top portable charger , the Jackery Bolt .
Not only does its slim design make it easy to tote around on the go , but it can also charge multiple devices at once so he can power up his iPhone and his tablet at the same time .
Get the Jackery Bolt from Amazon for $ 24.99 The product experts at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time .

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission. Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
Buying Father's Day, holiday or birthday gifts for guys can be fairly daunting considering just how many great gift ideas are out there. Luckily, we're scaling the countless possibilities down to a modest 50 gift ideas for men that your dad, brother, uncle, boyfriend, or even casual acquaintance will love.
Make smart choices without hours of googling. Subscribe to The Checklist newsletter for expert product advice and recommendations.
This list comprises selections from categories stretching from tech to apparel, accessories to home goods, and everything in between. Plenty of these selections have been tested for their excellence by our team of editors, so you can ensure the man in your life will be more than pleased with any of the following suggestions. Here are the 50 best gift ideas for the men in your life.
1. Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0
For men who love backyard parties
Credit: Reviewed/Solo Stove Best gifts for men: Solo Stove 2.0
Nothing breathes new life into a dull party like a big crackling fire. The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 lets your dude bring safe and smokeless fires to any shindig, whether it's a day at the beach or a late-fall backyard get-together. Our tester loved how easy it is to use, not to mention its eye-catching form factor.
$250 at Solo Stove
2. Yeti Rambler vacuum insulated mug
For the dad who can’t start the day without his coffee
Credit: Reviewed/Yeti Best gifts for men: Yeti Rambler vacuum insulated mug
Whether the man in your life is looking for a new water bottle or to-go cup, the Yeti Rambler mug is made to enjoy beverages anywhere and everywhere. It keeps coffee hot and iced drinks cold for hours on end thanks to its MagSlider lid. It even comes in a wide variety of colors.
$35 at Amazon
3. Sarno cashmere crew neck sweater
For a luxurious top
Credit: Reviewed/Banana Republic Best gifts for men: Sarno cashmere crew neck sweater
Cashmere is known for its timeless luxury and is one of the best gifts for men of all ages. While the Sarno cashmere crew neck sweater is a great light top for colder months, it's light enough for overcast days year-round. It's available in six colors including Ocean Spray Peach and Sky Blue.
From $120 at Banana Republic
4. Renpho Eyeris 1
For seriously restful sleep
Credit: Reviewed/Renpho Best gifts for men: Renpho Eyeris 1
Nothing improves your quality of life like a good night's rest. The Renpho Eyeris is the perfect sound-sleeping accessory which is why it's a great gift for men. This sleep mask massages the area around the eyes and even applies heat, to melt away the day's tension right before catching Zs.
$68 at Amazon
5. Ooni Koda 12 gas-powered pizza oven
For the perfect pizza oven
Credit: Reviewed/Ooni Best gifts for men: Ooni Koda 12 gas-powered pizza oven
If the man in your life dreams in San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, he'll love the Ooni Koda 12 gas-powered pizza oven. It's one of our favorite pizza ovens because it heats quickly and makes delicious brick-oven-style pies in as little as 90 seconds. It's also low-profile so it accommodates even tiny backyards and patios.
$399 at Amazon
6. Sony WH-1000XM5 noise-canceling headphones
For audiophiles
Best gifts for men: Sony WH-1000XM5 noise-canceling headphones
These headphones not only block out all the unwanted noise of the outside world, but it pumps out the jams with some seriously lush sound compared to the average speaker. The sound quality and premium level of all-day comfort make these our favorite headphones out there, and a perfect gift for men who love music and podcasts.
$399 at Amazon
7. Tile Mate
For the guy who loses everything
Credit: Reviewed/Tile Best gifts for men: Tile Mate
Few gifts under $30 are as life-changing as Tile Mate. This is the perfect gadget for the guy who's always misplacing his keys. It slides into any keychain and if your guy loses them, it emits a sound so it can be easily tracked down. It also lets you track it via GPS in case it's left inside an Uber, airplane, or restaurant.
$25 at Amazon
8. Crowd Cow
For serious carnivores
Credit: Reviewed/Crowd Cow Best gifts for men: Crowd Cow
Few dudes wouldn't go absolutely gaga for a premium slab of marbled beef delivered right to their door. Crowd Cow is one of our favorite meat delivery services because of its wide selection of cuts (including a homegrown American Wagyu), quick shipping, and even their sustainable packaging. Your favorite guy can order cuts a la carte, or join Crowd Cow's subscription service to maintain a steady supply.
From $20 at Crowd Cow
9. Ray-ban Wayfarer 55mm sunglasses
For an eye-catching accessory
Credit: Reviewed/Ray-Ban Best gifts for men: Ray-ban Wayfarer 55mm sunglasses
These Ray-ban Wayfarer sunglasses are easy on the eyes in more ways than one. Not only do they make anyone wearing them look totally cool, but they offer 100% UV protection too. As far as accessories for men go, few are as universally great as a pair of Ray-bans.
$201 at Nordstrom
10. Nintendo Switch OLED
For gamers of all kinds
Credit: Reviewed/Nintendo Best gifts for men: Nintendo Switch OLED
Even gamers who are graphics snobs can't help but love the Nintendo Switch OLED. It's one of our favorite consoles right now because of its massive library of must-play hits, the big and bright 7-inch OLED screen, and the fact that you can take it anywhere and everywhere. It's fun to play in the wild or anywhere in the house. Yes, even that room.
$349 at Amazon
11. Kindle Paperwhite
For men who always have their noses in a book
Credit: Reviewed/Amazon Best gifts for men: Kindle Paperwhite
Even the most old-fashioned bookworms can't help but love the warm glow of a Kindle Paperwhite. It's our pick for the best Kindle right now because of its gorgeous display and a wide array of content including books, newspapers, and even magazines. It's even waterproof for poolside or beachside reading.
$140 at Amazon
12. Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells
For the guy looking to get swole
Credit: Reviewed/Bowflex Best gifts for men: Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells
Is the man in your life on a long-term fitness journey? Half the battle is actually working out on a regular basis, and the Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells cut down on the lag time of switching up weights between workouts. They're our pick for the best adjustable dumbbells because of how easy they are to use and re-rack.
$429 at Amazon
13. Host Freeze beer glasses
For cracking open cold ones with the boys
Credit: Reviewed/Host Best gifts for men: Host Freeze beer glasses
There's nothing more depressing than a mug full of warm beer. The Host Freeze beer glasses park conveniently in the freezer, and once frozen, will keep anything you pour inside of them frosty much longer than a typical beer mug. It works equally well with all carbonated beverages including cider, hard seltzer, and even soda.
$30 at Amazon
14. Samsung Odyssey Ark
For work and game stations
Credit: Reviewed/Samsung Best gifts for men: Samsung Odyssey Ark
When it comes to gaming and work, the bigger the screen the better, and the Samsung Odyssey Ark is one large monitor. Its 55-inch curved screen not only provides fantastic picture quality across games and movies, but it even spins into "Cockpit Mode" providing new levels of immersion. It's a great gift for any man looking for a new dedicated screen.
$2,599 at Amazon
15. lululemon gear
For athletic fashionistas
Credit: Reviewed/lululemon Best gifts for men: lululemon gear
Breaking a sweat on the basketball court or golf course is a great way to stay active. If the man in your life insists on looking his best even when he's working out, there's no better activewear brand than lululemon. From breathable polos to head-turning hoodies, lululemon doesn't compromise an ounce of style when it comes to great activewear.
Shop lululemon
16. Dragon Glassware whiskey glasses
For classy drinkers
Credit: Reviewed/Dragon Glassware Best gifts for men: Dragon Glassware whiskey glasses
Half the fun of drinking whiskey, bourbon, scotch, brandy, or other popular spirits is enjoying them in the most ornate glass you can find. The Dragon Glassware whiskey glasses give an extra edge of class to any drink or cocktail, and aerate spirits as you drink them. Plus, they just plain look cool. This set comes with two glasses and is available in two different colors.
$35 at Amazon
17. Ugg Ascot slippers
For leisure-loving homebodies
Credit: Reviewed/Ugg Best gifts for men: Ugg Ascot slippers
There are few slippers as cozy as the Ugg Ascot slippers. They're one our favorite slippers for men because of the quality suede exterior and cozy wool lining that make for a level of comfort with a luxurious edge.
$120 at Amazon
18. Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer
For the guy looking to snack smarter
Credit: Reviewed/Ninja Best gifts for men: Ninja Speedi Rapid Cooker and Air Fryer
Air frying is a great way to make delicious snacks without any added fat. The Ninja Speedi is easily one of the best gifts for men because it's an air fryer that doubles as a pressure cooker, making it one of the most versatile countertop appliances out there. It just so happens to be our favorite air fryer because of how easy it is to use on a daily basis.
$130 at Amazon
19. Google Nest Cam security camera
For peace of mind
Credit: Reviewed/Google Best gifts for men: Google Nest Cam security camera
For guys who are more vigilant than the average bear, the Google Nest Cam makes for a fantastic security camera. It's our favorite outdoor security cam because of how easy it is to setup and its great audio and visual quality.
$180 at Best Buy
20. Luxe Bidet NEO 320 Plus
For a life-changing bathroom accessory
Credit: Reviewed/Luxe Bidet Best gifts for men: Luxe Bidet NEO 320 Plus
Bidets will one day be as ubiquitous in bathrooms as towel racks and disposable razors. Until that day, the Luxe Bidet Neo 320 Plus has the makings of one of the best gifts for men because of how it leaves you feeling truly clean after you've done your business. It's one of our favorite bidets because of its dependable performance and easy maintenance.
$63 at Amazon
21. Breville Barista Touch espresso machine
For the guy who can't live without caffeine
Credit: Reviewed/Breville Best gifts for men: Breville Barista Touch espresso machine
A quick cappuccino in the home environment usually comes with a few compromises, unless you make one using the Breville Barista Touch espresso machine. It's our favorite espresso machine because of the way it pulls perfect shots while packing fantastic features including an automatic milk foamer and a gorgeous LCD touchscreen. It's the closest thing to having your very own live-in barista.
$1,100 at Amazon
22. Titleist Players 4 Stand Bag
For golfers
Credit: Reviewed/Titleist Best gifts for men: Titleist Players 4 Stand Bag
If your special guy hits the back nine on a regular basis he'll love the Titleist Players 4 Stand Bag. It's our favorite golf bag because of how lightweight and portable it is, with durable aluminum legs that keep it propped up for golfers who don't have their own caddy. It's easy to access all its pockets, including a dedicated water bottle holder.
$225 at Amazon
23. Makita Cordless drill kit
For handymen
Credit: Reviewed/Makita Best gifts for men: Makita Cordless drill kit
There are few activities more masculine than getting your hands dirty and fixing something with your own two hands. Still, even the handiest handymen need a power tool as dependable as the Makita Cordless drill kit. It's our favorite cordless drill because of the way it perfectly balances portability and power.
$199 at Amazon
24. Carhartt beanie
For a year-round accessory
Credit: Reviewed/Carhartt Best gifts for men: Carhartt beanie
Carhartt beanies are fairly ubiquitous nowadays and worn by just about everyone. There's a reason for this: they're great at keeping you warm in cooler months but are fashion-forward enough to wear year-round. Even if the man in your life already owns a Carhartt beanie, he could always use another, especially when you consider how many different colors these eye-catching beanies come in, not to mention, how inexpensive they are.
$20 at Amazon
25. Apple Watch Series 8
For the guy who loves the latest tech
Credit: Reviewed/Apple Best gifts for men: Apple Watch Series 8
If for some reason the techie dude in your life hasn't jumped on the smartwatch bandwagon, the Apple Watch Series 8 is a fantastic entry point. It's our favorite smartwatch right now because of its outstanding build quality, QWERTY keyboard integration, and features like crash detection. It's the ultimate tech accessory and one that likely won't need to be upgraded for a few years.
$329 at Amazon
26. Berlinzo Clear Ice Ball Maker
For elevating spirits and cocktails
Credit: Reviewed/Berlinzo Best gifts for men: Berlinzo Clear Ice Ball Maker
Clear ice is one of the calling cards of an overpriced cocktail, but there's no denying how cool it looks. Plus, a big sphere of ice melts slow so it won't water down fine spirits like whiskey and gin. The Berlinzo Clear Ice Ball Maker is one of the best gifts for men because it lets your dude tap into some tricky alchemy to make clear ice balls in any home freezer.
$30 at Amazon
27. Black Wolf skincare set
For the man looking for to glow up
Credit: Reviewed/Black Wolf Best gifts for men: Black Wolf skincare set
Skincare routines are for everyone, and Black Wolf is proof positive of this. It's a skincare brand made for men and packed with skin-rejuvenating ingredients like bamboo, walnut shells, and charcoal. This set comes with a face wash, a face scrub, eye gel, moisturizer, and even a handy tote bag for storage and travel.
$61 at Amazon
28. ThermoPop digital meat thermometer
For perfectly cooked steaks
Credit: Reviewed/ThermoWorks Best gifts for men: ThermoPop digital meat thermometer
Some guys can grill a steak to medium-rare perfection just by feel. The ThermoPop is a premium-grade meat thermometer at a discount price and will help the carnivore in your life on their quest to steak nirvana. It's our pick for the best meat thermometer for the price, because of its charming design and quick, accurate readings.
$27 at ThermoWorks
29. TCL Class 5-Series 4K UHD QLED TV
For an upgrade-worthy screen
Credit: Reviewed Best gifts for men: TCL Class 5-Series 4K UHD QLED TV
Does your special dude have still have a television that tops out at 720p? The TCL Class 5-Series 4K UHD QLED TV is a worthy upgrade, and is flashy enough to last them a few years. It's one of our picks for the best TVs because of it's great out-of-the-box performance and its user-friendly streaming capabilities. It's also one of the most affordable screens worth buying.
From $400 at Amazon
30. Fly By Jing Shorty Spice set
For adventurous heat seekers
Credit: Reviewed/Fly By Jing Best gifts for men: Fly By Jing Shorty Spice set
Fly By Jing is bound to be the next Sriracha, and its Shorty Spice set is a great gift for any man that loves spicy food. This set comes with Fly By Jing's popular chili crisp, sweet and spicy Zhong Sauce, and the numbingly zesty Masala Spice Mix. All these sauces are great apart, but together, they have the makings of some seriously delicious Sichuan recipes. Its chili crisp is great on everything from dumplings to eggs and everything in between.
$25 at Fly By Jing
31. BEACN Dynamic USB microphone
For the man who dreams of podcast glory
Credit: Reviewed/BEACN Best gifts for men: BEACN Dynamic USB microphone
Content creation of all kinds, from Twitch streams to Soundcloud libraries all start with quality audio. BEACN Dynamic USB microphone is beloved by anyone who appreciates clear, rich sound. It's powerful software is great for streamers and musicians alike, and its customizable RGB lighting makes it pop on any desk or workstation.
$279 at Walmart
32. Wallet Ninja 2.0 multitool
For a budget-friendly gift he'll love
Credit: Reviewed/Wallet Ninja Best gifts for men: Wallet Ninja 2.0 multitool
Even if you're cash-strapped, you can give the man in your life a gift he'll likely use every single day. The Wallet Ninja 2.0 multitool is no larger than a credit card, but packs 20 different useful tools including a mirror, a nail file, bottle opener, rulers, screwdrivers, and even a cellphone stand.
$13 at Amazon
33. Lodge Chef Collection seasoned cast-iron skillet
For no-nonsense cooking
Credit: Reviewed/Lodge Best gifts for men: Lodge Chef Collection seasoned cast-iron skillet
A good cast-iron skillet is great for both seasoned cooks or guys going out on their own for the first time. The Lodge Chef Collection skillet is our favorite cast-iron pan because of it's natural non-stick properties, durability, and affordable price point. It's a must-have for any kitchen.
From $35 at Williams-Sonoma
34. Potensic T25 drone for adults
For a great grownup toy
Credit: Reviewed/Potensic Best gifts for men: Potensic T25 drone for adults
If your special dude ever enjoyed playing with an RC car in their youth, then they can happily graduate to playing with the Potensic T25 drone. It's one of our favorite affordable drones because it hovers in place without any annoying drifting, and even packs a 2K video camera for added fun.
$150 at Amazon
35. AncestryDNA
For the guy trying to find his roots
Credit: Reviewed/AncestryDNA Best gifts for men: AncestryDNA
Even guys with families who keep excellent records of their forebearers will eventually hit a wall when tracing where exactly they come from, and that's where AncestryDNA can help. It's our pick for the best DNA test kit right now because of its massive database, and the way they help you build a detailed family tree. It's one of the best gifts for men because it may just help answer the age-old question: "Who am I?"
From $99 at AncestryDNA
36. Google Nest Learning Thermostat
For vigilant thermostat watchers
Credit: Reviewed/Google Best gifts for men: Google Nest Learning Thermostat
Man older guys love keeping a close eye on their home thermostat. With Google Nest Learning Thermostat, they can monitor the temperature of their home from their phone from anywhere in the world. It's an incredibly intuitive device, which is why it's our favorite smart thermostat. It lets you do everything from changing the temperature to scheduling heaters and AC and even has reliable voice controls.
$190 at Amazon
37. Theragun Elite
For the guy who's wound up tight
Credit: Reviewed/Therabody Best gifts for men: Theragun Elite
Stress is bad for the body and the mind, and getting those kinks to melt away can be difficult, if not impossible. The Theragun Elite lets your favorite guy give himself a deep-tissue massage. It's our favorite massage gun on the market because of how easy it is to use thanks to its ergonomic handle and its great Bluetooth capabilities with its companion smartphone app. Tapping into this, your guy can pick from plenty of presets to target problem areas for an efficient massage.
$329 at Amazon
38. MasterBuilt Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Griddle, Grill and Smoker
For guys who just want to grill
Credit: Reviewed/MasterBuilt Best gifts for men: MasterBuilt Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Griddle, Grill and Smoker
Even seasoned pit masters will find something new to love in the MasterBuilt Gravity Series 800. It's equally good for low and slow smoking and white-hot grilling powered by a large stack of charcoal with an intuitive heating system. It also comes with a wide cooktop spanning griddle, so the BBQ fan in your life can live out any latent fantasies of being a short-order cook.
$799 at Amazon
39. Roku Ultra 4802R
For cord cutters
Credit: Reviewed/Roku Best gifts for men: Roku Ultra 4802R
We're well into the streaming age and the Roku Ultra 4802R is easily our pick for the best device to get your Netflix on. It's fast, it's dependable, and it even has easy-to-use voice controls the man in your life will love.
$99 at Walmart
40. CouchConsole
For couch potatoes
Credit: Reviewed/CouchConsole Best gifts for men: CouchConsole
Leaving the comfort of your favorite chair is not just annoying, it's heartbreaking. Your special guy will love the CouchConsole, which is made for long streaming or gaming sessions. This little box contains a spill-proof cup holder, s snack cup, a padded armrest, and even a USB-C charger to power up phones, gamepads, and other accessories.
$70 at Amazon
41. Pizza Steel PRO by Hans Grill
For amazing pizza
Credit: Reviewed/Hans Grill Best gifts for men: Pizza Steel PRO by Hans Grill
You can make fairly tasty pizza in a home oven as long as you've got the right tools. The Pizza Steel PRO is way better than any ceramic pizza cooker, and ensures even browning thanks to its great heat retention. The pizza-obsessed dude in your life will also appreciate that it comes with a peel, so he won't burn himself when sliding pies in and out of ovens.
$60 at Amazon
42. RTIC Ultra-Light Hard Cooler
For men who come prepared to party
Credit: Reviewed/RTIC Best gifts for men: RTIC Ultra-Light Hard Cooler
A good cooler is a must-have for any man who considers themselves a party animal. The RTIC Ultra-Light Hard Cooler is one of our favorite coolers, especially at its value price. It's lightweight and has great insulation for keeping beers frosty for not just hours, but days.
From $180 at Amazon
43. “Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama: A Memoir” by Bob Odenkirk
For a memoir men of all ages will love
Credit: Reviewed/Random House Best gifts for men: “Comedy Comedy Comedy Drama: A Memoir” by Bob Odenkirk
We're willing to bet if your guy doesn't love Bob Odenkirk's comedic work in "Mr. Show" or "I Think You Should Leave," they're fans of his dramatic roles in "Breaking Bad" and "Better Call Saul." This memoir spans Odenkirk's entire life, and is heartfelt, but more importantly, hilarious. There isn't an ounce of smarm, and the behind-the-scenes stories about his work on SNL are worth the price of admission alone.
From $15 at Amazon
44. 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller with charging dock
For a universal gamepad
Credit: Reviewed/8BitDo Best gifts for men: 8BitDo Ultimate Bluetooth controller with charging dock
Whether your dude is a hardcore game or more of a casual player, this gamepad is the cherry on top of any game station. It connects via Bluetooth or 2.4g wireless to a wide array of platforms including the Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, and even Android devices. There's even a companion charging dock so it's always powered up and ready to go.
$70 at Amazon
45. Dyson V15 Detect
For guys who like a tidy home
Credit: Reviewed/Dyson Best gifts for men: Dyson V15 Detect
There are dust busters and then there's the Dyson V15 Detect. It's one of our favorite cordless vacuums because of how well it scopes out dirt and dust with its laser sights. Its battery life and excellent handy make it a great gift for men who keep spotless homes.
$668 at Amazon
46. Snactiv Lite
For messy eaters
Credit: Reviewed/Snactiv Best gifts for men: Snactiv Lite
There are few things as unattractive as Cheeto-stained digits. The Snactiv Lite lets the man in your life eat snacks without getting messy, using an inspired device. It's great for extended work or gaming sessions too, considering there's no downtime needed to keep hands clean of various kinds of snack grime.
$14 at Amazon
47. Vitamix A3500 Ascent Series smart blender
For a kitchen accessory that will last a lifetime
Credit: Reviewed/Vitamix Best gifts for men: Vitamin A3500 Ascent Series smart blender
The Vitamix A3500 doesn't simply blend food, it pulverizes it. It's even powerful enough to heat a pile of veggies into piping-hot bisque. The kitchen miracles it pulls off are limitless, which is why it ranks as one of our favorite blenders, especially for folks looking for an upgrade. There isn't a dude alive who wouldn't love one, whether they're looking for a machine to make protein shakes or frozen margaritas.
$527 at Amazon
48. Manscaped The Lawn Mower 4.0
For a great grooming device
Credit: Reviewed/Manscaped Best gifts for men: Manscaped The Lawn Mower 4.0
For guys, keeping their intimates trim can be a dangerous prospect. The Manscaped Lawn Mower 4.0 is easy to use, and provides a knick-free shave for his sensitive areas. It's even waterproof so it can be used in the shower.
$90 at Amazon
49. Nike Blazer Mid ’77 Vintage men’s shoes
For a timeless pair of sneaks
Credit: Reviewed/Nike Best gifts for men: Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage Men's Shoes
There are few feats that the Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage men's shoes can't help the man in your life achieve, whether it's a casual jog or a quick softball game. They're one of our favorite Nike shoes available because of their vintage style and impressive level of comfort.
$1105 at Nike
50. “Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration”
For older gamers
Credit: Reviewed/Atari Best gifts for men: Atari 50th Anniversary Collection
If the special guy in your life is old enough, they remember the magic of playing "Space Invaders" at home on the Atari 2400. This game compiles some of Atari's most memorable games from arcade "Pong" to the misunderstood Jaguar console, complete with new games, and even interviews with the folks who helped make Atari a household name. It's also available on all modern consoles.
$30 at Amazon


usatoday--2020-12-07--'Pent-up demand': With bookings strong for late 2021, many cruisers are ready to sail

After what will have been a shutdown of more than nine months , the cruise industry is preparing to sail againin the U.S. , and major cruise companies have said bookings are strong for the second half of 2021 .
While the industry readies to return to U.S. waters with new health and safety precautions and in accordance with new guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control , the United States , along with much of the globe , finds itself in the midst of a worsening COVID-19 case surge .
With the pandemic continuing to rage across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back out there ?
The answer is yes , according to Cruise Lines International Association , the leading trade organization for the industry , which found that 73 % of cruisers say they are `` likely to cruise '' in the next few years with 50 % saying they will cruise within the year .
The data which Bari Golin-Blaugrund , vice president of strategic communications for CLIA , shared with USA TODAY , was collected before news broke that a vaccine may be available in the coming months .
`` Our data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again and are willing to follow stringent public health measures in order to return to sailing , '' Golin-Blaugrund said , noting 90 % of cruisers polled would wear a mask .
`` People have grown accustomed to taking such precautions on land and understand it is a small sacrifice to make in order to experience the joy of cruising while maintaining a focus on the health and safety of oneself and others , '' she added .
Michelle Fee , CEO of travel agency Cruise Planners , echoed CLIA 's sentiment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` pent-up demand '' for cruising .
She expects that many people will be back to sea in the second half of 2021 after rescheduling their 2020 reservations .
`` There are people who are ready to go and are raising their hands and saying , ' I want to be on one of those initial cruises , ' `` Fee told USA TODAY , noting she would be willing to board a ship herself .
`` It ’ s my industry ; I would probably be ( on ) one of them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cruise , '' she added .
Carnival , Norwegian and Royal Caribbean all see demand still Multiple major cruise companies said that booking trends have proven that cruisers are still interested in sailing in spite of the ongoing pandemic — particularly in the second half of 2021 .
The first half of the year , according to Carnival Corp. , reflects COVID-19 's impact on the industry , but for the second half of the year , bookings are still looking good .
`` While the company believes bookings in the first half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resumption of its guest cruise operations and anticipated itinerary changes , as of Sept. 20 , 2020 , cumulative advanced bookings for the second half of 2021 capacity currently available for sale are at the higher end of the historical range , '' Carnival Corp. said in its third quarter business update .
At the company 's last business update in October , 60 % of those bookings were new as opposed to redeemed future cruise credits being applied to new journeys , Roger Frizzell , spokesperson for Carnival Corp. , told USA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheduled to resume sailing at various points , with some sailings canceled into April 2021 .
Similar to competitor Carnival Corp. , Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. said in its third quarter earnings report released on Nov. 9 that bookings are below historic levels currently — but the company does n't expect that trend to continue indefinitely .
`` There continues to be demand for future cruise vacations , particularly beginning for sailings operating in the second half of 2021 and beyond , despite limited marketing efforts , '' the company said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in March .
And Royal Caribbean echoed the sentiment on bookings .
`` Booking activity for the first half of 2021 is aligned with the Company 's anticipated staggered resumption of cruises , '' the company said in its October earnings report .
`` The cumulative booked position for sailings in the second half of 2021 is within historical ranges . ''
Royal Caribbean Group 's cruise lines have suspended sailings through February with additional cancellations beyond that date .
Ken Muskat , the executive vice president and COO for MSC Cruises , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since the summer and expects to sail in U.S. waters in March , said he sees an appetite for travel overall which the company is ready to feed not only in Europe but also in U.S. waters once it receives proper approvals from the CDC .
`` With our guests eager to get back to cruising and new itineraries , ships and destinations lined up , we ’ re continuing to see growing interest in our 2021 cruises , '' Muskat told USA TODAY in a statement .
One component of the CDC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to U.S. waters is to complete mock voyages with volunteers — those sailings will be akin to test sailings cruise lines have when launching a new ship , Caitlin Shockey , spokesperson for the CDC , told USA TODAY in October .
In an attempt to gauge interest , Royal Caribbean International started a `` Volunteers of the Seas '' Facebook group as people started to express that they may want to be on board a test cruise .
`` More than 150,000 consumers have expressed interest in taking part in our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actively volunteering , '' Michael Bayley , the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International , told USA TODAY .
Bayley , who added he plans to be on board during simulated sailings , said the company does n't have a date for when test cruises will begin .
Royal Caribbean , he said , is working with the CDC to make that determination .
`` We have a lot of details to work out to make sure everyone ’ s experience on board is as safe and enjoyable as we can make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So , while we currently have no details , we are excited about the interest we have received so far — we can ’ t wait to finally welcome our guests back on board . ''
Cruisers ' attitudes toward getting back to sailing vary In the Solo Cruisers USA Facebook group , which has more than 8,000 members , USA TODAY asked members last month if they felt ready to cruise .
The more than 330 responses varied .
Some said they would n't hesitate to board a ship .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Laura J. Spangler wrote in response to USA TODAY on Facebook .
`` Test cruise or regular . ''
Lisa Hernandez also wrote she felt positive about getting back on board .
`` I 'm ready to get back to cruising with whatever restrictions they put in place , '' Hernandez wrote .
`` I feel confident that the rules they put in place will keep cruising safe . ''
Others had stipulations about what had to happen before they were to set foot back on board .
Eric Supple wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back on board `` only if we were guaranteed a way to get off the boat and home without being stuck in our rooms for a quarantine .
I ’ d like to see better circulation filters in the air on the boats and maybe not a hands-on buffet .
Employees serving the food so thousands of hands aren ’ t touching everything . ''
And others still were n't prepared to get on board , even with precautions in place .
`` Vaccine first , cruise later , I can wait , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ d prefer not ( to ) have to wear a mask or socially distance .
It ’ s a vacation ; it ’ s supposed to be relaxing .
Pandemics are not relaxing . ''
Ival McDermott took it one step further : `` I am hoping cruise lines will require passengers to present a proof of vaccination , '' McDermott wrote .
Amy Supple said she is willing to wait , too .
`` Not with the recent headlines , '' she wrote .
`` My biggest concern is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be able to get back to life . ''
When can passenger cruises start sailing in the U.S. ?
Regardless of cruisers ' interest levels , it 's unclear when passenger cruises will restart in U.S. waters , though multiple cruise companies including Carnival Corp. and Royal Caribbean Group , have restarted cruises abroad with some starts and stops .
The cruise industry suspended cruises until 2021 after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 's `` no-sail '' order expired at the end of October and was replaced by a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does n't mean that passengers will start sailing come January .
In fact , most major cruise lines have already extended their sailing suspensions into 2021 in U.S. waters with some cancellations into March .
`` This 'Framework of Conditional Sailing ' lays out a pathway – a phased , deliberate and intentional pathway – toward resuming passenger services but only when it is safe , when ( the cruise industry ) can assure health and when they are responsible with respects of needs of crew passengers and port communities , '' Dr. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Division of Global Migration and Quarantine , told USA TODAY when the order was announced Oct. 30 .
After announcing the order , the CDC published a Level 4 travel notice in late November advising that `` all people '' should avoid travel on cruise ships worldwide because `` the risk of COVID-19 on cruise ships is very high . ''
`` Cruise passengers are at increased risk of person-to-person spread of infectious diseases , including COVID-19 , and outbreaks of COVID-19 have been reported on cruise ships , '' the organization @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added that for passengers who may be considered at increased risk , the warning is `` especially '' applicable .
But Fee echoed a point made by Richard Fain , CEO of Royal Caribbean Group , on an October company earnings call : The industry believes it is possible to make a cruise ship safer than walking down `` Main Street , '' Fain said .
`` ( The industry is ) mitigating the risk of COVID on a ship so that it ’ s less than walking around your hometown , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a cruise line disease .
We haven ’ t been on the water since March , and it ’ s ( COVID-19 is ) out of control , '' she said , later noting that the industry is leading their return efforts with science .
`` I think ( the cruise industry ) will be extremely safe , '' she said .
`` Again , no one is saying they can eliminate COVID by any means — they are going to mitigate risk . ''
Fee pointed out that travelers can get on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without a COVID-19 test — that 's not something passengers would be able to avoid when boarding a cruise ship .
`` 72 % of cruisers trusts that the industry has implemented and activated stringent COVID-19 related protocols to protect their customers , employees and the public , '' Golin-Blaugrund said , referencing CLIA 's data .
'CDC is putting American lives at risk ' : Members of Congress call for CDC to reinstate cruise 'no-sail ' order

'Pent-up demand': With bookings strong for late 2021, many cruisers are ready to sail
Show Caption Hide Caption Cruises: What will they look like during the COVID-19 pandemic? Cruise Lines International Association, which represents 95% of the cruise industry, introduced mandatory requirements to be able to set sail again. USA TODAY
After what will have been a shutdown of more than nine months, the cruise industry is preparing to sail again in the U.S., and major cruise companies have said bookings are strong for the second half of 2021.
While the industry prepares to return to U.S. waters with new health and safety precautions and in accordance with new guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, the United States, along with much of the globe, finds itself in the midst of a worsening COVID-19 case surge.
With the pandemic continuing to rage across the nation, are cruisers raring to get back out there?
The answer is yes, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading trade organization for the industry. It found that 73% of cruisers say they are "likely to cruise" in the next few years, and 50% say they will cruise within the year.
The data that Bari Golin-Blaugrund, vice president of strategic communications for CLIA, shared with USA TODAY, was collected before news broke that a vaccine may be available in the coming weeks.
"Our data shows that cruisers are eager to cruise again and are willing to follow stringent public health measures in order to return to sailing," Golin-Blaugrund said, noting 90% of cruisers polled said they would wear a mask.
"People have grown accustomed to taking such precautions on land and understand it is a small sacrifice to make in order to experience the joy of cruising while maintaining a focus on the health and safety of oneself and others," she said.
Michelle Fee, CEO of travel agency Cruise Planners, echoed the cruise line association's sentiment. She told USA TODAY that there is "pent-up demand" for cruising. She expects that many people will be back to sea in the second half of 2021 after rescheduling their 2020 reservations.
"There are people who are ready to go and are raising their hands and saying, 'I want to be on one of those initial cruises,' " Fee told USA TODAY, noting she would be willing to board a ship herself. "It’s my industry; I would probably be (on) one of them."
"Cruisers are going to cruise," she said.
Carnival, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean all see demand
Multiple major cruise companies said booking trends have proven that cruisers are still interested in sailing in spite of the pandemic – particularly in the second half of 2021.
The first half of the year, according to Carnival Corp., reflects COVID-19's affect on the industry, but for the second half of the year, bookings are still looking good.
"While the company believes bookings in the first half of 2021 reflect expectations of the phased resumption of its guest cruise operations and anticipated itinerary changes, as of Sept. 20, 2020, cumulative advanced bookings for the second half of 2021 capacity currently available for sale are at the higher end of the historical range," Carnival Corp. said in its third-quarter business update.
At the company's last business update in October, 60% of those bookings were new as opposed to redeemed future cruise credits being applied to new journeys, Roger Frizzell, spokesman for Carnival Corp., told USA TODAY.
Carnival Corp.'s lines are scheduled to resume sailing at various points. Some sailings are canceled into April 2021.
Similar to competitor Carnival Corp., Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. said in its third-quarter earnings report released Nov. 9 that bookings are below historic levels, but the company doesn't expect that to continue indefinitely.
"There continues to be demand for future cruise vacations, particularly beginning for sailings operating in the second half of 2021 and beyond, despite limited marketing efforts," the company said.
Norwegian is scheduled to resume sailing in March.
And Royal Caribbean echoed the sentiment on bookings.
"Booking activity for the first half of 2021 is aligned with the Company's anticipated staggered resumption of cruises," the company said in its October earnings report. "The cumulative booked position for sailings in the second half of 2021 is within historical ranges."
Royal Caribbean Group's cruise lines have suspended sailings through February, with additional cancellations beyond that date.
Ken Muskat, executive vice president and COO for MSC Cruises, which has been sailing in the Mediterranean since the summer and expects to sail in U.S. waters in March, said he sees an appetite for travel overall that the company is ready to feed not only in Europe but also in U.S. waters once it receives approval from the CDC.
"With our guests eager to get back to cruising and new itineraries, ships and destinations lined up, we’re continuing to see growing interest in our 2021 cruises," Muskat told USA TODAY in a statement.
150,000 people expressed interest in taking a Royal Caribbean test cruise
One component of the CDC's order for cruise companies to get back to U.S. waters is to complete mock voyages with volunteers. Those sailings will be akin to test sailings cruise lines have when launching a new ship, Caitlin Shockey, spokesperson for the CDC, told USA TODAY in October.
In an attempt to gauge interest, Royal Caribbean International started a Volunteers of the Seas Facebook group.
"More than 150,000 consumers have expressed interest in taking part in our simulation sailings, and people are still actively volunteering," Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told USA TODAY.
Bayley, who added that he plans to be on board for simulated sailings, said the company doesn't have a date for when test cruises will begin. Royal Caribbean, he said, is working with the CDC to make that determination.
"We have a lot of details to work out to make sure everyone’s experience on board is as safe and enjoyable as we can make it," he said. "So, while we currently have no details, we are excited about the interest we have received so far – we can’t wait to finally welcome our guests back on board."
Cruisers' attitudes toward getting back to sailing vary
In the Solo Cruisers USA Facebook group, which has more than 8,000 members, USA TODAY asked members last month if they felt ready to cruise.
The more than 330 responses varied. Some said they wouldn't hesitate to board a ship.
"I absolutely would go on the first cruises," Laura J. Spangler wrote in response. "Test cruise or regular."
Lisa Hernandez also wrote she felt positive about getting back on board.
"I'm ready to get back to cruising with whatever restrictions they put in place," Hernandez wrote. "I feel confident that the rules they put in place will keep cruising safe."
Others had stipulations about what had to happen before they were to set foot back on board.
Eric Supple wrote that he would be interested in returning "only if we were guaranteed a way to get off the boat and home without being stuck in our rooms for a quarantine. I’d like to see better circulation filters in the air on the boats and maybe not a hands-on buffet. Employees serving the food so thousands of hands aren’t touching everything."
And others still weren't prepared to get on board, even with precautions in place.
"Vaccine first, cruise later, I can wait," Colleen Foley Cervaro wrote. "I’d prefer not (to) have to wear a mask or socially distance. It’s a vacation; it’s supposed to be relaxing. Pandemics are not relaxing."
Ival McDermott took it one step further: "I am hoping cruise lines will require passengers to present a proof of vaccination," McDermott wrote.
Amy Supple said she is willing to wait, too.
"Not with the recent headlines," she wrote. "My biggest concern is being stuck on a ship in quarantine and not be able to get back to life."
When can passenger cruises start sailing in the U.S.?
Regardless of cruisers' interest levels, it's unclear when passenger cruises will restart in U.S. waters, though multiple cruise companies including Carnival Corp. and Royal Caribbean Group have restarted cruises abroad with some starts and stops.
The cruise industry suspended cruises until 2021 after the CDC's "no-sail" order expired at the end of October and was replaced by a "conditional sailing order."
But that doesn't mean passengers will start sailing come January. In fact, most major cruise lines have already extended their sailing suspensions into 2021 in U.S. waters, with some cancellations into March.
"This 'Framework of Conditional Sailing' lays out a pathway – a phased, deliberate and intentional pathway – toward resuming passenger services but only when it is safe, when (the cruise industry) can assure health and when they are responsible with respects of needs of crew passengers and port communities," Dr. Martin Cetron, director of the CDC's Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, told USA TODAY when the order was announced Oct. 30.
After announcing the order, the CDC published a Level 4 travel notice in late November advising that "all people" should avoid travel on cruise ships worldwide because "the risk of COVID-19 on cruise ships is very high."
"Cruise passengers are at increased risk of person-to-person spread of infectious diseases, including COVID-19, and outbreaks of COVID-19 have been reported on cruise ships," the organization said on its website.
The CDC added that for passengers who may be considered at increased risk, the warning is "especially" applicable.
But Fee echoed a point made by Richard Fain, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, on an October company earnings call: The industry believes it is possible to make a cruise ship safer than walking down "Main Street," Fain said.
The industry "is mitigating the risk of COVID on a ship so that it’s less than walking around your hometown," Fee said.
"This is not a cruise line disease. We haven’t been on the water since March, and (COVID-19 is) out of control," she said, later noting that the industry is leading its return efforts with science.
"I think (the cruise industry) will be extremely safe," she said. "Again, no one is saying they can eliminate COVID by any means – they are going to mitigate risk."
Fee pointed out that travelers can get on a plane and stay in a hotel without a COVID-19 test, but that's not something passengers would be able to do when boarding a cruise ship.
"Seventy-two percent of cruisers trusts that the industry has implemented and activated stringent COVID-19-related protocols to protect their customers, employees and the public," Golin-Blaugrund said, referencing the international cruise line association's data.
'Devastating impact': Cruise industry says 254,000 American jobs, $32 billion in economic activity lost
'CDC is putting American lives at risk': Members of Congress call for CDC to reinstate cruise 'no-sail' order


usatoday--2020-12-07--Christmas party and coronavirus surges: Can you RSVP 'no' to the office holiday party?

It 's the holidays , and as sure as families are picking out trees , stringing up lights and ordering gifts , many companies are planning the annual office holiday party .
But as the coronavirus flares across the country , some employees may greet an invitation to an in-person office gathering with a big question : Should I go ?
Many workers may feel torn between wanting a little non-virtual face time with managers and colleagues they have n't seen face-to-face since spring , and worries about mingling in a crowd during a pandemic .
If you 're concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrench in your career path , there are ways to make sure there are no hard feelings .
But most employers will get it if you 're uncomfortable going .
`` This is a complicated time and each individual person has their own risk tolerance , has their own health conditions they have to be concerned ( about ) , and their own family members that they need to protect , '' says Andrew Challenger , senior vice president of Challenger , Gray & Christmas , a global outplacement and business and executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to decide whether to attend an in-person celebration because companies wo n't be having them , highlighting yet another tradition upended by COVID-19 .
Only 23 % of companies are hosting holiday gatherings this year , down from 76 % in 2019 , according to a Challenger , Gray & Christmas survey taken in October .
And roughly three out of four of those companies will be having a party virtually .
Among the roughly 55 % of businesses that wo n't have any holiday celebration , 33 % of them are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus .
A LinkedIn survey taken last month also found that 69 % of employees said their workplaces were n't having any celebrations this holiday season .
But if your employer is one of the few hosting a party , the most important thing to keep in mind is that you can skip it .
Career moves amid COVID-19 : Changing careers during COVID-19 : Here 's how one millennial went from violist to medical technician Santa during a COVID Xmas ?
: Is Santa Claus still coming to the mall for Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is changing during COVID-19 '' Yes , you may absolutely RSVP 'no ' to your company ’ s holiday party , '' Johnny C. Taylor JR. , CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management said in his Ask HR column for USA TODAY .
`` Whether it ’ s a sick family member , prior engagements , or a last-minute schedule conflict , it ’ s not unheard of for employees to miss corporate gatherings , even when they are encouraged to attend . ''
Rather than simply not showing up , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a chat with your manager .
Ask if they will have safety protocols in place at the holiday party , Taylor suggests .
And if you or a family member has an underlying health condition , share that information as well .
Even if you do n't have health challenges , if you are reasonably concerned about whether the gathering will be safe , `` you could have a right to refuse to attend under the Occupational Safety and Health Act , '' Taylor said .
`` Employers have a responsibility to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workforce . ''
Among companies holding a celebration of some kind , 17.4 % will host in-person parties that require masks and social distancing , according to the Challenger survey .
They will also typically limit how many workers can gather , take their temperatures and host the event outdoors .
A handful of those throwing parties , 5.7 % , will do an in-person bash without any coronavirus-related changes .
Magaly Chocano , president of the Entrepreneurs ’ Organization in San Antonio , Texas , says that the group of business owners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season , but it will definitely put safety first .
Only 20 of the group 's sixty members are planning to attend the celebration , which in addition to being held outdoors will have other safeguards in place .
Masks are required , and there will be color-coded stickers on partygoers ' badges .
Red indicates that you want others to make sure they stand six feet away .
“ You ’ re online all day … for work , ’ ’ Chocano says of the decision to host the gathering .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ …We thought , 'It ’ s the holiday season .
We ’ re just trying it out . '
’ ’ Colson Steber , co-CEO of Communications for Research , Inc. , a market research consultancy in St. Louis , says his company typically hosts several holiday celebrations for its 150 employees , including potluck meals , a dinner party for staffers and their spouses , and an office bash where employees ' children are given gifts .
But this year , because of COVID-19 , all those celebrations are canceled .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ large gathering ... doesn ’ t work , '' Steber said , adding that the company will send employees gifts instead while individual teams have their own small , virtual parties .
It will be very different from what he and his staff are used to .
The company usually flies in its contractors to attend the holiday party .
`` We won ’ t see them at all this year , '' he says , adding that with a couple of exceptions he has n't seen his staff in person since March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Noggin , a branding and marketing agency in San Antonio , Texas says she and her staff volunteered at a food bank this year , continuing the company 's tradition of doing a group activity to celebrate the holidays .
But instead of the big lunch they ’ d usually share , her employees will receive packages at their homes , then open them together during a Zoom happy hour .
`` I think everybody is zoomed out so that feels like a little bit of a let down ( versus ) being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fun holiday party , '' Marlowe says .
`` But we ’ ll do our best . ''
To be sure , mingling at the office holiday party can be helpful as you climb the corporate ladder , says Challenger .
“ It 's incredibly important to be able to talk face to face with not only co-workers in different departments but also senior management ... at a time when they 're really approachable , '' Challenger said .
`` It can be incredibly valuable from a career standpoint . ''
Challenger says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for executive roles during the pandemic without ever meeting their potential colleagues in person .
`` There 's so few days during the year when you 're getting together and talking about something other than the daily business item , '' he says , `` when you meet your co-workers ' family members , ( when ) you cook for each other ... We ’ re really missing out on that this year.
’ ’ Virtual parties may be better than no celebration at all .
`` But one-on-one conversations just don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so it ’ s much more difficult to have those personal connections , '' Challenger says .
`` Not that there isn ’ t value in getting people together even virtually .
But it ’ s not the same .
’ ’

Christmas party and coronavirus surges: Can you RSVP 'no' to the office holiday party?
Show Caption Hide Caption How to survive a holiday party if you’re an introvert While some people enjoy a good holiday party, this time of year can be especially tough if you’re an introvert. Here's some solid advice for introverts Buzz60
It's the holidays, and as sure as families are picking out trees, stringing up lights and ordering gifts, many companies are planning the annual office holiday party.
But as the coronavirus flares across the country, some employees may greet an invitation to an in-person office gathering with a big question: Should I go?
Many workers may feel torn between wanting a little non-virtual face time with managers and colleagues they haven't seen face-to-face since spring, and worries about mingling in a crowd during a pandemic.
If you're concerned that being a no-show will throw a wrench in your career path, there are ways to make sure there are no hard feelings. But most employers will get it if you're uncomfortable going.
"This is a complicated time and each individual person has their own risk tolerance, has their own health conditions they have to be concerned (about), and their own family members that they need to protect,'' said Andrew Challenger, senior vice president of Challenger, Gray & Christmas, a global outplacement and business and executive coaching firm.
Office parties will be rare
Many employees won't have to decide whether to attend an in-person celebration because companies won't be having them, highlighting yet another tradition upended by COVID-19.
Only 23% of companies are hosting holiday gatherings this year, down from 76% in 2019, according to a Challenger, Gray & Christmas survey taken in October. And roughly 3 out of 4 of those companies will be having a party virtually.
Among the roughly 55% of businesses that won't have any holiday celebration, 33% of them aren't doing so specifically because of the coronavirus.
A LinkedIn survey taken last month also found that 69% of employees said their workplaces weren't having any celebrations this holiday season.
But if your employer is one of the few hosting a party, the most important thing to keep in mind is that you can skip it.
Career moves amid COVID-19: Changing careers during COVID-19: Here's how one millennial went from violist to medical technician
Santa during a COVID Xmas?: Is Santa Claus still coming to the mall for Christmas 2020? Here's how the tradition is changing during COVID-19
A right to refuse
"Yes, you may absolutely RSVP 'no' to your company’s holiday party,'' Johnny C. Taylor Jr., CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management said in his Ask HR column for USA TODAY. "Whether it’s a sick family member, prior engagements, or a last-minute schedule conflict, it’s not unheard of for employees to miss corporate gatherings, even when they are encouraged to attend."
Rather than simply not showing up, however, you may first want to have a chat with your manager. Ask if they will have safety protocols in place at the holiday party, Taylor suggests. And if you or a family member has an underlying health condition, share that information as well.
Even if you don't have health challenges, if you are reasonably concerned about whether the gathering will be safe, "you could have a right to refuse to attend under the Occupational Safety and Health Act,'' Taylor said. "Employers have a responsibility to provide a reasonably safe environment for their workforce."
Safety first
Among companies holding a celebration of some kind, 17.4% will host in-person parties that require masks and social distancing, according to the Challenger survey. They will also typically limit how many workers can gather, take their temperatures and host the event outdoors.
A handful of those throwing parties, 5.7%, will do an in-person bash without any coronavirus-related changes.
Magaly Chocano, president of the Entrepreneurs’ Organization in San Antonio, says that the group of business owners will have an in-person holiday party this season, but it will definitely put safety first.
Only 20 of the group's 60 members are planning to attend the celebration, which in addition to being held outdoors will have other safeguards in place. Masks are required, and there will be color-coded stickers on partygoers' badges. Red indicates that you want others to make sure they stand 6 feet away.
“You’re online all day … for work,’’ Chocano said of the decision to host the gathering. “The human interaction is just so missed. … We thought, 'It’s the holiday season. We’re just trying it out.'’’
Canceled because of COVID-19
Colson Steber, co-CEO of Communications for Research Inc., a market research consultancy in St. Louis, says his company typically hosts several holiday celebrations for its 150 employees, including potluck meals, a dinner party for staffers and their spouses, and an office bash where employees' children are given gifts.
But this year, because of COVID-19, all those celebrations are canceled.
"We basically decided that any kind of large gathering ... doesn’t work,'' Steber said, adding that the company will send employees gifts instead while individual teams have their own small, virtual parties.
It will be very different from what he and his staff are used to. The company usually flies in its contractors to attend the holiday party.
"We won’t see them at all this year,'' he said, adding that with a couple of exceptions he hasn't seen his staff in person since March.
Tracy Marlowe, CEO of Creative Noggin, a branding and marketing agency in San Antonio, says she and her staff volunteered at a food bank this year, continuing the company's tradition of doing a group activity to celebrate the holidays.
But instead of the big lunch they’d usually share, her employees will receive packages at their homes, then open them together during a Zoom happy hour.
"I think everybody is zoomed out so that feels like a little bit of a let down (versus) being able to get together and have a fun holiday party,'' Marlowe said. "But we’ll do our best.''
Career, camaraderie and virtual parties
To be sure, mingling at the office holiday party can be helpful as you climb the corporate ladder, Challenger says.
“It's incredibly important to be able to talk face to face with not only co-workers in different departments but also senior management ... at a time when they're really approachable,'' Challenger said. "It can be incredibly valuable from a career standpoint."
Challenger says he's had clients who've interviewed for executive roles during the pandemic without ever meeting their potential colleagues in person.
"There's so few days during the year when you're getting together and talking about something other than the daily business item, when you meet your co-workers' family members, (when) you cook for each other." he says. "We’re really missing out on that this year.’’
Virtual parties may be better than no celebration at all. "But one-on-one conversations just don’t really happen in a Zoom party, so it’s much more difficult to have those personal connections,'' Challenger said. "Not that there isn’t value in getting people together even virtually. But it’s not the same.’’
Follow Charisse Jones on Twitter @charissejones