Gifts that click

For the art lover
guggenheim.org
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City is home to modern masterpieces by the likes of Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall. Shop the museum's online store for signature pieces like classic white porcelain dishware, or copper or solid brass frames from the exclusive Guggenheim Collection. Or, search for sculptures, dolls or sketchbooks. Well-priced (though don't forget, all prices are in American currency), these gift items are perfect for the art lover on your list. Note: Guggenheim members save 10 per cent on all purchases.
Gift suggestion: Adaptation of Edgar Degas's Spanish Dance sculpture, $150 US

For the techie
skinit.ca
From laptops and MP3 players to cellphones and PDAs, it seems like we're all walking around with wireless devices these days. SkinIt.ca offers cool and distinctive “skins” to protect and personalize your toys. Choose from hundreds of designs, or upload a graphic and customize your own.
Gift suggestion: Cellphone skins, from $15

For the homebody
amazon.ca
Browse this site and you'll find wonderful ideas for gifts for the homebody on your list. Search for the latest cookbooks, or surprise a budding cook with a recipe box to store much-loved favourites. The box includes 50 recipes for appetizers, main dishes and desserts, 50 blank cards to fill in his or her faves, and seven tabs to keep it all wonderfully organized.
Gift suggestion: What's Cooking? Recipe Box, $17

For the decorista
restorationhardware.com
Online, you'll find furniture and lighting, bath and bedding products. Scratch those names off your holiday list by searching the Accessories and Gifts sections for wonderful Christmas presents, including chic cocktailware and glass hurricanes. But make note -- all prices are in U.S. dollars, so factor in the exchange rate before you buy.
Gift suggestion: Solid brass bronze-finish dog bookends, $65 US

Online shopping 101
Whether you're a confirmed web-shopping addict or a newbie who's finally decided to take the plunge,
here are some tips for smart online shopping.

• If you're mailing your gift, don't delay. Canada Post's 2005 holiday shipping schedule can be found at your local post office or at canadapost.ca.

• Most online retailers offer secure servers to protect your personal information. Ensure you're on a secure site before disclosing your credit card number.

• To avoid clicking your way to catastrophe, check each retail site's shipping and return policies before buying.

• Need help? Contact the retailer's customer service department. Most sites offer a toll-free customer service line.

• Some merchants use PayPal as a secure way to transfer funds from your account to the retailer's account. Visit paypal.com for more information.

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