Published: November 01. 2009 2:00AM

By Renata Parker
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Maybe the way we travel has changed, but our love for travel has not. Here are just of few of my favorite gift ideas for travelers on your list.

South Carolina's ‘Beautiful Places’

There's no doubt that our state is home to some of the most beautiful state parks. Now celebrated in an artistic collection of stunning photography, Chad Prosser, director of South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, takes you on an official tour of all 47 of South Carolina's state parks via, “Beautiful Places — The Timeless Beauty of South Carolina State Parks.”

Launched as part of the state Parks Service’s 75th anniversary, “Beautiful Places” features internationally recognized South Carolina fine arts photographer jon o. Holloway, who captures the essence of each park, along with commentary from state historian Cal Harrison.

Whether you plan to hike all 47 parks or just want the armchair experience, this book makes a perfect gift for those who want to preserve, protect or are just proud of the natural beauty of our state. “Beautiful Places” is available in bookstores and online, and proceeds benefit South Carolina State Parks. www.beautifulplacesalliance.org.

Cirque du Soleil experience

Live performance tickets will certainly wow that special someone, and you are sure to make a statement with a name like Cirque du Soleil. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, Cirque du Soleil brings its classic Alegría arena performance to Greenville. Alegría is a Spanish word that means happiness, joy and jubilation. It’s also a tale about the struggle for power and the invigorating energy of youth. With breathtaking acrobatics, the show is high-speed, high-energy and perfect for all ages. Acts include the Synchro Trapeze and the high-speed, high-energy Aerial High Bars, in which daring aerialists fly to catchers swinging more than 40 feet above the stage.

Travel socks

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially fatal blood clot that forms in the deep vein system of the lower leg. DVT can occur from sitting in the same position for an extended period of time. It strikes nearly two million Americans and results in 300,000 deaths a year. Frequent air travelers are at the highest risk.

A pair of microfiber firm support travel socks make a great gift for avid flyers. The graduated compression sock applies decreasing pressure from the ankle to the knee, forcing blood to the leg’s deep veins, reducing pooling of blood and maintaining proper flow rate of blood to the heart and lungs. The World Health Organization recognizes this type of sock to reduce the risk of DVT. Available for men and women in a variety of colors, the travel socks retail at $10 per pair.

Yoga on the go

Yoga Paws are the answer for those interested in staying fit and mentally centered while traveling. Eco-friendly and compact, Yoga Paws fit into your purse or travel bag and are a unique way to do yoga postures while on the road. No mats to lug and no classes to miss.

Approved safari gear

Giving or receiving a safari adventure? Be warned that new regulations for luggage allowances have now reached the African bush, where even well-known safari outfitters have limited the size and requirements of gear. Just in time for the shift in luggage qualifications, Africa Adventure Consultants has launched an online shop showcasing all the gear travelers need for an African safari that is approved by outfitters across the continent. Find must-have safari items such as convertible pants or bug-resistant shirts.

Golf Cleatskins

Now avid golfers can pack a little lighter when traveling to play their favorite course. Cleatskins is an innovative new product that instantly converts golf shoes into street shoes. Made of a unique rubble shell, Cleatskins improves mobility and extends the life of the spikes. They come in a variety of sizes and sophisticated colors, including black, white, taupe, dark brown and medium brown. www.cleatskins.com.