OJAI, CALIF.–When life is about more than the next techno toy, and you’ve reached that point where you’re ready to move onto a more spiritual journey, Ojai, California provides a caring group of local artisans, authors, hoteliers, thinkers, movers and shakers who can help you find not only the perfect, meaningful gifts for those you love (including yourself) but can also inspire you to move toward the light.

Visit, sit and contemplate under the great oak tree, enjoy a relaxing spa treatment or take a class and meet like-minded travelers on similar paths. It’s about the journey in Ojai, and the vacation involves being good to yourself, and to others. Peace, Love, Ojai!

HERE ARE 10 HOLIDAY SHOPPING IDEAS MADE ONLY IN OJAI!

1. Take a back country jeep tour. Learn how the natives used plants & flowers as herbs as you commune with nature.
2. See how olive oil is made at a local ranch. The beautiful glass bottles and herb flavors make for awesome gifts.
3. Kick start your day with some locally roasted coffee, then buy some as a gift for coffee lovers.
4. Pack a picnic and head for a local winery to sample and buy the finest wines.
5. Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment. Spas offer gift certificates and sell relaxing lotions and spa items.
6. Do nothing at all, except cozy up to the fireplace one of Ojai’s inns.
7. With its no chain store policy, Ojai specialty stores offer everything from upscale apparel to fine art to hand-crafted jewelry and home furnishings. One Ojai favorite is Made in Ojai, featuring locally-made specialties including teas, lotions, honey, olive oil, hand-made soaps, jewelry, artwork, books and more.
8. Barts Books sells all types of rare and out-of-print first editions. It’s a unique, outdoor bookstore.
9. Get centered at Soul Centered where Diane Silvester does Tarot Readings, offers workshops and sells books, a huge selection of crystals and even has a garden where you can release your frustrations by simply letting them go.
10. Go antiquing at Treasures of Ojai, or shop for unique finds at Human Arts or Kava Gifts. Recycled boutique apparel at the Lennon Closet (owned by a relative of the famous Lennon Sisters seen on Lawrence Welk show is a way of acquiring couture at a bargain.

For more information on holiday offers and special events, contact the Ojai Visitors Bureau at ojaivisitors.com or 1-888-OJAI NOW.