Wishbird

What it is. A platform for giving experiences rather than objects — facials and spa treatments, paintball, wine tastings, food experiences, segway tours and helicopter flights, bought as a gift and redeemed by the recipient.

The helicopter flight. Operated in a Bell 206, with snacks, a drink and communication headsets included. It is the clearest way to understand the scale of the city: twenty million people in a closed basin ringed by volcanoes, with the Mexica grid, the Reforma roundabouts and the Xochimilco chinampas all legible at once from above.

The segway tours. A quiet, electric way to cover the distances in Chapultepec, Reforma or the historic centre, which works well for families and for anyone who would rather not walk ten kilometres.

What to confirm before buying. The validity period of the voucher; whether the activity needs booking in advance, which the flights and tastings always do; what happens if the weather cancels; and any age, weight or health restrictions. For a gift, check whether the recipient can change the date.

Practical notes. Offices on Tamaulipas in the Condesa; the activities themselves take place elsewhere across the city. Metro Chilpancingo and Patriotismo, line 9.