Hi, we have a friend who has just built a new house on the outskirts of chiang mai, it's very contemporary, not a hint of uncomfortable wooden day beds or dark wood, it's a family home of mum dad 2 sisters 1 brother and 2 grandchildren, we are wanting to buy really for the brother but appreciate that the home is shared, originally we wanted to buy a gift from the UK, something that reflects our culture herein the UK (I think we have to take that as a joke), so far not been able to come up with any ideas that aren't tacky or too expensive. Any suggestions, we now realise we might not find anything in this country but really we don't mind if we get it here or in Thailand just as long as it's appropriate. Any suggestions? The only thing we've thought of briefly was a photo of the 3 of us made in black and white with colour splash done on a photo editing app and made into a canvas? But we really are unsure about this? Does that fall into the tacky bracket? Help....

A Scottish independence flag...I believe they are quite a lot cheaper now than they were last week. However in 50 years they will be a collectible.

It's a friend, not family.

How about some bedside lights (something a bit special of course), or an up-lighter (or two).

To be honest, anything remotely useful will be appreciated.

Do I really want a photo of non-family in my home?

Electric Salt n Pepper mills are so cool and a pleasure to use, very useful indeed, and a reminder of home.

Housewarming is a nice American tradition, imported by the pilgrims from the UK a long time ago. Unknown in Thailand. Quite the opposite: After the monks have blessed the house and are finished eating, your future standing will be measured by how much you can eat and drink. If you "bring" something at this occasion, the home owners will think that you consider them as "Needy-people" that have overextended their budget by building the house (Farang Financed or not.)

If having been instructed otherwise by Thai-Wife and big family, certain alarm bells should start ringing.

Cheers.

Block of firewood wrapped in newspaper.

Sure to be accepted warmly.