For the price of a hand of blackjack or a roll of the dice, you can spend some time with predators of a different kind — at Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef Aquarium.  The only predator-based aquarium in the United States calls the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino (3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas, map) home.

What predators lurk here?

The lionfish is cute looking, but you don't want to run into him

Tigers Sharks.  The second deadliest specie behind the Great White, these two females are quickly becoming the prima donnas of the aquarium, and it’s the only place tiger sharks are available for viewing in the US.  You’ll be able to spot them easily with their tiger-striped markings and sharp-serrated teeth.

Komodo Dragon.  What they lack in looks, they make up for in speed, and the world’s largest lizard uses both its speed, cunning and power to track and kills it’s prey.  They’re so ugly that they’re kind of cute, but make no mistake about it, these guys are deadly.

The piranhas.  A guide was standing near the exhibit to answer questions, and the question on everyone’s mind was – when do you feed them?  He explained that they are fed three times a week.  Their diet is primarily raw chicken, chopped up into small chunks and then thrown about the water so that the piranhas disperse and chase the food.  By keeping the food spread out in the water it helps to  avoid any injuries to the fish as a result of their gluttonous eating habit.

The stingray petting pool was a big visitor favorite, and mine as well.  A naturalist nearby gave adults and kids instructions about how to “pet” the stingrays swimming about the shallow pool.  I shoved up my sleeves and put my arm in the pool waiting for the stingray to swim by.  When it did, I ran one finger along the top of him.  It’s hard to explain what it felt like.  It was soft and spongy, but definitely not what I expected.  The closest I can come to describing the feel is that it’s like injera, the Ethiopian pancake-like bread.

Shark Reef Aquarium has lots of different kinds of sharks

I’d recommend allowing an hour or so to walk through the exhibit, listening to the audio guide as you do.  The audio guide provides a nice enhancement to what you’re seeing, giving you two choice:  just the basics or a more in depth explanation.  I used the basic info most of the time, pressing for more details on those exhibits that really captured my attention.

Shark Reef Aquarium is open daily starting at 10 am.  Admission is $16.95 for adults, $10.95 for children, and toddlers four and under are FREE.   Shark Reef has just added an annual pass option, $40 for adults and $25 for children 5-12, which saves a bundle if you’ll visit often.  Nevada residents get a discount on admission; ID required.  Tickets can be purchased online or on site.

Photo credits:  personal collection

This post mentions: Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

We love lists.  We’ve always loved lists.  It’s not a new phenomenon, after all, we had Book of Lists (published in 1983), the New Book of Lists (published in 2005), and various permutations since we’ve acknowledged our fascination with the list.And ever since the movie The Bucket List, we had a name for all those things that we want to do in life before we. . .  well, kick the bucket.

I’ve long has a list of places that I want to go, things I want to see and do, and experiences that I can’t wait to give a try, and it’s nice that I now have a special name for that list.

The serious travelers that I know all seem to have ongoing, constantly updated, lists.  But what if you don’t have one?  Here are a few of my tips to get started on your own travel bucket list:

1. Think local:  It’s easy to overlook what’s close to home.  So think about all the things you keep telling yourself you’re going to do over the weekend but never get around to doing.  Those can be the first items on your bucket list.  Here are some of the local things on mine:  Olympic National Park, Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, and Maryhill wine tasting.  I know it’s ridiculous, but I’ve lived here all my life and haven’t gotten to any of those places.
2. Think family:  Whether it’s your family of origin, or a family acquired, getting back to our roots has been in vogue for years.  Put a family reunion, a trip back to the “old country” or a return to your childhood home, on your list.  Croatia was on my list (I got to check it off last year) as my family came from the Dubrovnik area.
3. Think luxury.  Chances are we all have ideas about where we’d like to spend some luxury holidays, so put those ideas on the list.  Whether it’s an over-the-top hotel, a luxurious spa, or some fabulous adventure, these dreams are the stuff that bucket lists are made of.  Here are a few of the luxury items on mine:  staying at one of the beach locations with your cabin on stilts out over the ocean, staying in a decadent penthouse (in any number of cities), a luxury train trip similar to the Orient Express, crossing the Atlantic to New York on a luxury ship, cruising on a yacht, and traveling by private jet.  There are lots more actually, but I’ll stop for now.
4. Think adventure.  Despite my efforts at climbing Mt. Etna, I’m more of a soft adventure type of gal than a rugged outdoors fan.  Your definition of adventure may vary, but this section of your bucket list can contain all sorts of exciting experiences, no matter how you define adventure.  For me, this includes this like:  going on an Africa safari, visiting a casbah in Morocco, visiting the Pyramids, sailing the Scandinavian fjords, visiting the Galapagos, Antarctica, and Patagonia, riding in a submarine, zip lining, taking a cooking class in Italy, and staying at an ice hotel.
5. Think destinations.  This is where you can lump everything else.  Whether local, exotic, or somewhere in between, start making a list of general places that you want to visit and worry about filling in the specifics later.  Think of it as mind mapping with a real map.  Here’s a small sampling of what’s on this part of my list:  London (and no, I’ve never been there), Malta (has been on the list for years and years), Tunisia, Morocco, South Africa, Chile, Buenos Aires, Thailand, Maine, Florida Keys, Egypt, Iceland (another entry that been on the list a long time), Turkey, St. Petersburg and Moscow (I was a Soviet studies major in college), Prague — and who am I kidding, this list could go on and on.

Breaking your list up into sub-lists should make it easy to get started and to organize.  Of course making the list is the easy part. Getting to everything on it is far more difficult.

Do you have a travel bucket list?  What tops your list?

NOTE:  This post was sponsored by Bridge & Wickers; the opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author.

Photo credit:  SXC

Fast food can be good food, and Karne Garibaldi (website is in Spanish) in Guadalajara, Mexico proves the point over and over again.  Whenever I’m in Guadalajara, you can bank on my having at least one meal at this casual restaurant whose claim to fame is the Guinness Book of Records (1996) entry for the fastest service.  They set the record at 13 1/2 seconds for a table of six.

The service is so fast that before you’re even seated a group of waiters will arrive at your table bringing you appetizers to get started.  It’s a plate for of fresh, warm tortillas, served along with delicious grilled onions, refried beans with bits of corn in it (this Karne Garibaldi specialty is available for purchase by the can), and other condiments (chopped green onions, radishes) and salsa.  This is what constitutes starters in an authentic Mexican restaurant.  Chips and guacamole are available, but must be ordered separately, and fair warning, guacamole is not always available.  Don’t worry, though, you’ll be just fine without it.

Once seated, waiters are there to take your order immediately.  By default they are prepared to get you in and out in a hurry, but they are more than accommodating if you ask them to slow down the pace.  If you want time to have an ice cold beer and chat, speak up and ask for a little more time.  I’d recommend starting with a cold Negro Modelo (ask for a frosted mug) first thing, and then placing your food order when the beer arrives.

What should you order?  Well first off, if you have an Americanized version of what Mexican food is like, Karne Garibaldi will force you to forget those preconceptions.  Ordering is basically all about size, as one item dominates the menu – the regional specialty, carne en jugo (beef in juice).  Basically, this is like a tasty beef stew, cooked in its own broth and flavored with bacon, beans, tomatoes, and spices.  Despite what you may read elsewhere, there are a few other items on the menu.  But I’ve never ordered them.  The reason I go here is for the carne en jugo.  Just place an order for the size your prefer, ranging from extra small to extra large, and then get ready to dig in — it’ll be at your table practically before the words have left your mouth.

When your meal arrives there are a couple of ways to eat it.  Tourists (and there are usually not a lot in the restaurant) tend to scoop the meat out of the juice, drop it into a tortilla, add a few condiments and eat it like a taco.  I ate it that way the first few times because I didn’t really know what else to do.  After going to dinner there with some local friends, I’d like to think that I’ve learned better, and now eat it like a local.  Locals eat is as a soup or stew, adding a variety of condiments to the meat and broth, including the radishes, chopped onions and salsa.  Then tightly roll up a tortilla in one hand, and eat it as you would a piece of bread, using a spoon to enjoy every bite of the carne en jugo.  You can also add the grilled bulb onions, although they are sweet and yummy eaten plain.

Just as fast food can be good food, so can fast service be good service.  The waitstaff is not just fast, but also attentive.  An empty mug will get a generate a request if you’d like another.  When the tortillas, refried beans, or any of the condiments  run low, they’ll be replenished without your needing to ask.  The service is seamless and unobtrusive, but I like chatting with the servers and asking them about favorite things to do in their city.  Since there are times when I’m there on a weekly basis, they start to get to know me after awhile.  Between my sketchy Spanish language skills and their desire to practice English we seem to figure everything out.

My recommended order would be a medium size carne en jugo, with a couple beers.  The price for that will vary based on the exchange rate, but typically will come in around $6-7  which includes a generous tip. I always have leftovers, and they are extremely gracious about packing them up and including all the extras, usually replenished.  The tortillas can be a little tough the next day, but everything else is just as delicious.

I frequent the location across the street from Plaza del Sol (Mariano Otero 3019, Zona Plaza del Sol),although there are other locations around the area.  Hours are 11 am – 11 pm every day but Sunday, when it closes at 6 pm.  Credit cards are accepted.  Casual dress is okay, but be aware that casual by Guadalajara standards is more dressed up than by US standards.

Karne Garibaldi is one of my favorite Guadalajara restaurants.  And it’s not a tourist restaurant, despite the whole Guinness record thing.  The majority of patrons are locals, and although the staff does not speak much English, they do a great job of communicating.  The language difference is not a problem, but remember that you are in Mexico and it’s expected that people will speak Spanish! The delicious flavors of your meal will make conversation easy.

It’s been awhile since I’ve been back to Guadalajara, and I’m craving some carne en jugo.  I’ve yet to find anywhere here at home where they serve it, but it sure would be nice to get my fix a little closer to home.

Photo credits:  personal collection

It seems like I just return from one trip and I start planning the next.  Actually, I always have several travel ideas in varying stages of research, and it’s just about matching up time, location, and finances.

Finances!  It’s the f-word for travelers, and can be one of the primary stumbling blocks to travel.  Some people sacrifice time in order to get more money, but then forget about the freedom that money was supposed to buy.  It’s so easy to get caught up in the no time-no money continuum that vacation plans go right out the window.

I think most people can come up with a plan to save up money (set a goal, break it down into manageable amounts, start saving), but it’s a little harder to to deal with the emotional components of travel and money.  If there is one topic that is rife with emotional pitfalls it’s money.

Do any of these sound familiar?

I should be saving up money for something else:  Recognize that there will always be “something else” to spend your money on.  I’m not suggesting that you let the kids go hungry, but if travel is a priority in your life, make it part of your budget, and don’t worry about it.

I can’t decide when to buy because maybe I’ll get a better price.  Some people worry so much about saving a dollar that they never get around to making a decision.  Believe me, I’m not saying that you should throw money away.  You need to check and re-check prices, itinerary options, travel dates, etc., to make sure you’re getting a good deals.  There are lots of website that can help you with the process, including BeatTheBrochure (a recent discovery).  Look before you book, but it you want to travel you’re going to need to make a decision!

My friends all have a larger budget than I do.  There will always be someone who has more money than you.  And is thinner, smarter, better traveled, too.  So what?!  You can accept the fact that it will take you longer to save up the needed money, you can find ways to save faster, or you can come up with travel alternatives that fit your budget.  There’s absolutely no reason to go along with travel plans that don’t fit you.

Every time I save enough money, something happens.  If by “something happens” you mean that you break an arm or wind up hospitalized, then I truly do feel sorry for you.  But if it’s non-essential type of things, it’s time to think about what’s important to you.  Do you really need a new television, or expensive clothing, or the latest gadget?  If the answer is yes, then travel isn’t your priority, and you’ve made your own decision.  But even something as major as losing a job can be a chance to reassess your life priorities and goals, and travel may just be a big part of that.

No one wants to travel where I do.  This is an age old argument whether between friends or between travel bloggers, but the bottom line is there is no one right way to travel.  It’s all about what’s right for you, right now.  Travel preferences change, and are based not only on money but also on things like age, travel experience, and personal interests.  So if you prefer all inclusive holidays and your friends want to rough it camping, you are both right.  Go with what works for you, but don’t get so stuck in your ways that you refuse to try something out of your comfort zone.

The dollar vs. Euro valuation is a killer.  Yep, it is.  But if you heart is really set on Europe, you’ll be better off accepting the exchange rate and finding ways to make up that value in other ways.  If you’re not committed to Europe, explore alternative destinations where you’d be equally happy.

If I go on vacation I’ll come home broke.  You will come home with less money, but you’ll also come home richer in experiences.  Decide which is more important to you – money or experience.  Remember, though, you can always save up more money.

Does your relationship with money get in the way of traveling?  How do you avoid getting caught up in the time, money, travel trap?

NOTE:  This post was sponsored by BeatTheBrochure; the opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author.

Photo credit: SXC

It seems like it’s feast or famine when it comes to visiting hotels and resorts, and I have a lot of reviews that I’m working on right now.  To make sure that you know what your getting when you read my reviews, I’m going to spell out my process, what I look for at a hotel, the standards I use, and my thought process. I’ll also spill my personal biases because, after all, preferences are a very personal thing.

When I visit a hotel, I take down lots of details.  I write notes, record audio and video, and take lots of photos.  I ask questions sometimes, and other times I sit back and observe.  Both levels of involvement tell you different things.  I wander the hotel at different hours of the day and night, call the front desk at various times too, and try to think about the various wants and needs that a guest might have.

I’ve made it my practice to not write a review immediately after a visit, because everything seems GREAT or HORRIBLE then.  I take time to look at the photos I’ve taken, see how I feel about the visit a week or so later, and then start forming a detailed opinion.  Have I found myself telling friends all about the place – either raving or complaining?  Or has the visit failed to stand out as a memory at all?  A true gem stands the test of time and won’t  be forgotten a week later!

While a hotel visit is about evaluating a combination of amenities and experiences vs. price point, the two don’t necessarily go hand in hand.  The BEST hotel isn’t necessarily the most expensive and/or luxurious hotel, it’s all about value for the dollars spent.

I accept complimentary stays at hotels.  I also pay for them.  I’ll let you know when I’ve received something for free or have received a discount that is not available to the typical traveler.  If I didn’t tell you it was free, it wasn’t!  And before you start wondering if I’ll always rave about something if it’s free, let me reassure you that you need not worry.  I evaluate based on the price point a guest would pay for the room.

Over the years, I’ve developed a list of things that I’m looking for when I visit a hotel.  Here’s my current working list of things that I look at when doing a hotel review:

1. I’ve stayed there.  If you’re reading one of my reviews, it means I’ve been there.  I’ve stayed there, tested the services, checked out to see how reality lives up to advertising claims.  In a perfect world, I’d be able to stay at a hotel for several nights, or make a return visit.  That’s the only way to get a complete analysis of a hotel.  But since this isn’t always possible, I will tell you how long the stay was and you can take that into consideration.
2. Classification. While this is totally subjective, I check to see if the hotel lives up to its own billing.  Is it a beach resort, luxury hotel, inn, villa, business hotel, family-friendly hotel, bed-and-breakfast, etc.  In other words, is it what they say it is.
3. How easy and clear was the reservation process?  Will a guest feel like they’ve gotten the best deal available, or are they going to feel ripped off?  Even when I’m the guest of a hotel and don’t make my own reservation, I play around with the hotel website to see how easy it is to use.  Are the website deals the best around, are the promotions really “deals” or would you be better off booking through another site.
4. Is the hotel easy to find? Has the website provided adequate directions on getting to the property whether I’m driving or coming by public transportation.  Is the check in area clearly marked so that someone unfamiliar with the hotel can find it.
5. Checking in. Are you made to feel welcome?  Whether the first impression is the valet parking or the front desk staff, I like to know that my presence is appreciated and that I’m a valued guest.  I pay close attention to how long it takes to check in and get my room key, watching to see if the front desk is adequately staffed.  This first impression can set the tone for the remainder of the stay, so I pay close attention to how things start off.
6. Room first impression.  Opening the door is the first make or break moment for me.  It’s the time when a guest takes a breath and either gasps, OMG this room is great, or sighs and says UGH!  I want to see a spotless room, with chairs and bed linens neatly in place, without a smoke or funky smell.  I want lights that work, burned out bulbs replaced before I have to call down and request it, a television and remote in working order (even though I rarely use them, I check them out), and and easy to adjust temperature control.  After I walk in, I do a quick once around the entire room to see how things are laid out, make sure that everything works, etc., and I usually take a few photos in this process.
7. The bathroom.  This had better be spotless, with not a scrap of paper or hair in the sink left behind.  What amenities are there?  Is it just shampoo, or is there a larger selection of conditioner, bath gel, body lotion and soaps?  Is the brand entry level or upscale luxury?  Is the bathroom well laid out and easy to use, with ample counter space and well placed plug ins?  Are there ample towels in all sizes?  When I use the shower, I take note of how the water flow is, if the water is hard or soft, and how easy it is to adjust the water temperature.  In other words, I look for features that make this home away from home easy and pleasant to use.
8. Desk/work space.  Although I love relaxing in a great hotel room, the reality is that I’m usually there working.  I want FREE wi-fi and a strong signal!   Also important are adequate plug ins around the desk area, good lighting, a comfortable chair that adjust in height for the desk, multiple phones in the room with a speaker phone in the work space area, sufficient waste bins with recycling options, and enough space to spread out and actually work.  I’m about functional work space more than pretty, but bonus points if it’s both.
9. Bed and bedding.  Is the bed notably hard or soft, or just in the broad in between.  I’m not a picky sleeper, unless it’s a really, really bad mattress, but I do try to take note of which it is.  Are there sufficient pillows, are they soft or firm?  Is there an extra blanket in case I am cold?  Where is the alarm clock?  Is it easy to use or does it require an engineering degree to figure out.  Is there sexy mood lighting as well as good lighting to read by?  And just in case I’m working in bed, is the wi-fi signal one that works there?
10. Beverage center.  I don’t care about a mini bar, and am not sure who does anymore, but I do like a refrigerator to keep water cold or for leftovers from dinner.  A coffee pot and coffee/tea is important, along with adequate cream and sugar — and the cream shouldn’t be the powdered stuff, there are plenty of shelf stable options.  Is the coffee pot located where it’s convenient to use?  Bonus points if it’s high quality coffee.
11. Housekeeping.  Is the hotel sufficiently staffed that the room is cleaned quickly?  Is my one day to sleep in interrupted by housekeeping knocking at the door at 8 am?  Does the housekeeping staff make an effort to be quiet or is there noise and chatter echoing down the halls?  If it’s a quick overnight, I may not get the full measure of this, but if I’m staying for more than a day, this is high on the list of things that factor in.
12. Hotel restaurant.  I try to have at least one meal at a restaurant at the hotel or order room service, both if I’m there for awhile.  Most travelers will have at least one meal at the hotel.  I check to see if the restaurants are over-priced because they have a captive audience, or if they’re fairly priced for the general area.  I’m also looking to see what kind of variety is available, and whether the choices are family friendly (and priced accordingly) or more upscale adult dining.  I check out how long the line is for coffee, knowing that many guests will want to grab a cup on the run.  If the restaurant is significant in its own right, I will often do a separate review of it.
13. Conference/business space.  While this is hard to check out unless you’re actually using the space, I do try to take a peek or two and see what’s available.  I’ll also take a look at the business center.
14. Public spaces.  I spend some time wandering around the public spaces, not just the lobby.  Are there little spots to sit and have a drink or chat?  Is there work space in the lobby?   Is there wi-fi in the public spaces?  When I encounter staff in the public areas how are they acting?  Am I greeted or ignored?  Is there art in the public areas, an easily accessible rest room, is everything clean and tidy?
15. Pool, jacuzzi and/or beach area.  Is the pool indoor or outdoor?  What hours is it available for use?  Are kids permitted?  I check out locker room and shower areas (if available), and notice if the smell of chlorine grabs my nose a block away.  Is the beach area kept clean?  Is food and beverage service available, and if so, what’s it like?  Are there adequate towels and loungers, and is there a charge to use?  Are these amenities free to use, or is there a resort fee or amenity charge?
16. Work out room.  If it’s on premises, I take note of any fee that is charged and match that up with what’s available, how it’s maintained, and how many people I see using it.  What hours is it open?  If there’s nothing on site, I find out what’s close by.  Are there running trails nearby, or can the hotel staff make some recommendations.  If it’s just a quick overnight stay, I don’t always have a chance to check this out.
17. Concierge.  A good concierge is worth their weight in gold, so I try to ask a variety of questions during my stay.  My questions range from basic information (where to catch the bus) and facts about the hotel (how many rooms are there), to asking for recommendations on where to go (is there a bookstore nearby) and things to do (any good happy hours within walking distance).  If they only suggest hotel facilities, I’m immediately suspect.  If they engage me in conversation to try to get a feel for my preferences BEFORE making suggestions, I know they really care about the quality of my experience.
18. Operator.  Phone etiquette is one of my pet peeves.  When the operator answers the phone, I need to be able to understand him/her.  If the first part of the message is said so fast that I can’t figure out if I’ve called the right placed\, then the ending “how may I help you?” won’t really matter.  Staff that answers the phone should be trained to speak slowly and distinctly so that they can be understood.
19. Spa.  This is a review category separate to itself, and just as extensive.
20. Demographics.  Who would like to stay at this hotel and why?  Is it perfect for a family reunion, with lots of kids, or is it a romantic gem?  We all want a different hotel experience for different reasons, and matching up expectations with a selection is always important.
21. Problems.  There is no perfect hotel, and even the best of the best will have an off day.  The real issue, is when there is an issue, how does the hotel handle it?  Is a problem quickly acknowledged and resolved?  Or do you feel like the staff is playing the blame game?  If it’s a major issue, does the hotel try to compensate or accommodate you in some appropriate way?  I’m not talking about trying to scam something, I’m talking about a fair make good for your trouble.  The best hotels know that “stuff happens” and are prepared to handle it efficiently and courteously.
22. Star factor. Whether it’s stars, diamonds, or some other rating system, I look to see hotel lives up to its reputation.
23. The unknown factor.  Not everything is quantifiable, and many times staying at a hotel isn’t about a check list, but about an emotional feeling.  The “it” factor, if you will.  I never discount it.
24. One-week later.  As I said before, it’s important to reflect on how I feel about the visit a week later.  Many times, I’ve mellowed, and something wasn’t really horrible, I was just having a bad day.  Conversely, maybe the bar wasn’t really that much fun, it was just the third glass of wine.  A great experience will be a great experience next week or next month.

Depending on the length of a stay it can be hard to evaluate all these factors, so I will include the length of my stay and which ones were personally observed hopefully giving you ample information for an interpretation of the results.

After collecting and evaluation all that information, I then evaluate the experience against the price point of the room.  It’s all about value, and what’s a value at $100, $200 or $500 per night will be vastly different.  I try to include basic room rates and other fees, along with any special promotions or packages that might offer good value to a guest.

Ultimately, a hotel review is just a snapshot of my stay, and with a longer stay, the snapshot is a little more clear and focused.  Your experience at any hotel will likely vary.  After all, we are different people coming into contact with different people.  My hope, however, is that my reviews will be of sufficient depth that you have enough information to decide whether a particular hotel is likely one that you’ll enjoy.

NOTE:  I will also be setting this list up as a permanent page, changing and updating as my review process changes.

Photo credit:  SXC

When you’re traveling, the elements conspire against your body, skin and hair. Let’s face it, airplanes beat up our bodies as well as our spirits.  Fashionable and practical don’t have to be mutually exclusive!  Here’s my top 10 list that I think fit in both of those categories, proving that you can look good and feel good when you travel:

1. Water – You’ll have to buy a bottle inside of security, or refill an empty bottle that you’ve brought from home, but this is the very best thing you can do for your skin, hair, and general well being.  The airplane sucks all the water out of you so remember — hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.  My current choice:  I’ve tried a variety of water bottles, trying hard to be green, but just haven’t found one that quite does the trick.  For now I buy and reuse plastic.
2. Hand cream – Choose a heavy duty favorite and put it on the first thing when you get on the plane.. Reapply often — you’ll be amazed how much your skin drinks it up.  You’ll need to make sure that it comes in a size that’s under 3 ounces, or repackage it into a smaller size, and pack in your 3-1-1 bag.  My current choice:  The Body Shop Satsuma Body Butter ($8).  I bought a large and a small size, and keep refilling for my travels.  If orange isn’t a scent that thrills you, there are lots of others you can choose from.  It works well on the rest of your body, too.
3. Moisturizer – Apply generously, and if it’s an overnight flight, skip the foundation and just let your skin absorb all the good stuff of your moisturizer.  Before landing you can fresh up and reapply so you’ll feel and look like you’re glowing instead of haggard.  My current choice Canyon Ranch Balance Light-Weight Moisture ($75).  I received the moisturizer as part of a purchase of a collection of products, and used it on my recent travels.  It’s light enough to not feel greasy on a red-eye flight, yet still does a good job of keeping me from turning into a prune.
4. Lip Balm – Your probably noticing a theme here.  If your hands and face need moisture, so do your lips.  My current choice: Purlisse Pur-Lip Comfort ($22), that was also part of the previously mentioned collection of products.
5. Toothbrush/toothpaste – The longer the flight, the more you’re going to need these items. After an overnight flight my mouth was screaming out for a little care. If the thought of using water from the airplane grosses you out, take bottled water in.  My current choice:  Oral B Brush-ups Textured Teeth Wipes (approximately $15, price varies).  I just can’t get over the lack of hygiene in the airplane lavatory.
6. Sweater or large scarf – Even if you’re flying to or from a warm weather destination, the temperature on the airplane can be all over the board. There’s no perfect temperature for everyone, so toss a sweater, pashmina, or large scarf into your carryon for some fashionable in flight warmth.  My current choice:  A variation of the Donna Karan cozydifferent ways to wear it, making it a comfy wardrobe extender.
7. Comfy shoes – If it’s a short flight won’t matter quite as much, but if you’re traveling cross country, trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific, comfy shoes are critical. Your feet are going to swell, and if you take your shoes off there’s a chance you won’t be able to get back in them.  You’ll also want something that’s easy to remove for getting through airport security, and it’s a real bonus if they look good too.  My current choice:  Skechers Cali Women’s Crystal Cut Trail Mary Janes in black (approximately $40, price varies).  I wore these on the plane, walking over all sorts of terrain from climbing trails to city streets.  I wore them with shorts, jeans, and a dress.  They got a little beat up with all the walking and hiking that I did, so I ordered another pair.  Love them.
8. Elastic socks – Sure, they’re a bit on the ugly side, but if it’s a long flight elasticized knee socks help guard against the blot clots of deep vein thrombosis.  And they’ll keep your feet warm, too.  If you’re worried about the lack of fashion, you can just slip them on and off during flight.  My current choice:  None that I’m satisfied with, I’m still looking for a pair that I’ll love.
9. Purse – I like having a small purse that can fit into a larger carry on bag or backpack, yet will be large enough to use when I get to my destination.  It needs to be big “enough” but not “too” big.  It’s a tough call.  My current choice:  T-Tech Empire by Tumi ($75). It’s a cross-body messenger bag, and could hold all my stuff, yet wasn’t big and bulky.  It’s a casual style, but could work for all but the most dressy of occasions, and it’s perfect for when I need to get up to use the bathroom and don’t want to carry my entire backpack with me.
10. Backpack – I only use a backpack when I’m checking my bags.  I much prefer to use a shoulder bag that hooks over my larger roller bag, but when I check my bags, it’s just too heavy to carry.  I’m more of a fashionable backpacker than carrying all of clothes on my back.  My current choice:  eBags Downloader Laptop Backpack ($45).  It’s okay, serviceable, can carry all my electronics and more, but yet I’m not sure that I’ll keep using it.  It doesn’t quite seem to fit right, although I can’t really put my finger on it.  I guess the jury’s still out on this one.

Of course, this list just covers a portion of the things that I pack and carry with me — we have gotten to the gear and gadget list yet.

Do you have some favorite must pack items that you carry with you?  I’d love to get your recommendations.

Photo credit:  Tumi for Empire bag, all others from Amazon (affiliate links)

It’s with mixed feelings that I’m back in Seattle after three and a half weeks in Italy.  It’s always good to come back home, of course, but there is a part of me that was left behind, waiting patiently until I come back to claim it.

The pace was both busy and leisurely, with a day or two of activity followed by a day or two of rest.

Sunflowers, Tuscany 2009

Leisure days were spent by the pool, taking naps, drinking wine, eating pasta and lots of gelato.  Activity days were full of exploring, sightseeing, discovering new things, and lots and lots of walking to counteract all that pasta, gelato, and wine.  It was the perfect combination of Adventure Holidays and Walking holidays, with plenty of rest to get ready for it all.

Here are some of the highlights of the trip:

• Climbing Mt. Etna
• Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Siracusa and Noto in Sicily
• Learning to drive like the Sicilians
• Eating grilled shrimp, freshly caught moments before consumption, beach side in Muscali
• Watching World Cup games with the Italians
• Walking the hill towns in Tuscany
• Wine tasting, especially the Brunellos and Super Tuscans
• Food:  pasta, gelato (fig may be my new favorite)
• Visiting favorite places and discovering new ones, a good mix of the familiar with the new
• 24 straight days of 80-degree plus weather, and a good week where it was close to 100 degrees

Since no travels are ever perfect, however, honesty demands that I also list a few items that won’t make the highlight reel:

• Bugs.  I don’t know why it was so much worse this year than that, but I was a mess from bites that I couldn’t stop itching.
• Ice doesn’t seem to exist.  When you wanted an ice cold glass of water or tea, or even a beer, it just wasn’t that refreshing icy coldness that I love.
• The sunflowers are gone from Tuscany.  Economic factors caused farmers to plant wheat rather than sunflowers, and those beautiful fields of row after row of flowers were just not to be found.  Wheat hasn’t been all that successful of a cash crop either, so next year it may be alfalfa.
• Learning about the Italian health care system when one my traveling companions needed stitches in his head.  The system works quite well – efficient, high quality, and free – it’s just not the kind of thing you want to have to discover.

I’m a big fan of extended holidays.  They restore me physically, mentally, and emotionally in a way that a quick getaway weekend never will.  Italy does all that for me, and it’s good to know that it’s waiting for me until I get back once again.

Where do you go for that balance of active and restorative travel?  Do you have a special place that nourishes your soul?

Photo credit:  personal collection

NOTE:  This posts was sponsored by The Adventure Company; the opinions expressed herein are my own.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s long awaited sequel to The Phantom of The Opera has theater lovers queuing up to see Love Never Dies, which picks up the tale of love and loss 10 years after Raoul rescues Christine Daae in the original Phantom.

Here’s a brief synopsis of what’s to come:

Ten years after the mysterious disappearance of The Phantom from the Paris Opera House, Christine Daaé accepts an offer to come to America and perform at New York’s fabulous new playground of the world – Coney Island. Christine arrives in New York with her husband Raoul and their son Gustave. She soon discovers the identity of the anonymous impresario who has lured her from France to sing. Love Never Dies is a roller coaster ride of obsession and intrigue… in which music and memory can play cruel tricks… and The Phantom sets out to prove that, indeed, Love Never Dies..

Love Never Dies at the Adelphia Theatre, London

Broadway Across America has put together theater travel package that includes tickets to Love Never Dies along with sightseeing trips and tickets to other theater productions.  Here are just a few of the highlights that theater lovers will enjoy:

• 5 nights at the 5-star Stafford London, conveniently located in London’s Mayfair section (NOTE:  A big kudo for the Stafford for offering FREE wifi).
• Full English breakfast each morning.
• London Travel Cards to give you unlimited rides on the Tube and public bus system.
• Airport transfers
• City tour
• Tour of Kensington Palace
• Tour of Buckingham Palace (the Queen will not be in residence)
• Traditional English tea
• Day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, home of Shakespeare.
• Tickets to Love Never Dies at the Adelphi Theatre, including a back stage tour after the performance
• Tickets to Priscilla Queen of the Desert at the Palace Theatre
• Tickets to Sister Act  at the London Palladium (based on the Whoopi Goldberg movie of the same name), and an opportunity to meet the cast.
• Personal time for additional sightseeing, shopping, or just relaxing.
• Lots more!

Guided tours are not for every traveler, but theater lovers may be interested in some of the one-of-a-kind experiences this small group (approximately 16-20 persons) has to offer.  Fall is a great time to visit London, with the crowds dwindling but temperatures still comfortable, and this combination of theater, history, and culture may be just what the doctor ordered.

Date:  Arrive London, September 23rd – 28th, 2010

Price:  Varies based upon departure city and additional arrangements,  Land portion of the trip starts at approximately $2,667, and includes taxes and gratuities.  Check the Broadway Across America website for precise package details.

Photo credit: markhillary @flickr

Looking for a way to combine family travel with a little educational and cultural experience as well?  There are a number of cities that can fill those specifications, blending lots of fun things to do with a quality cultural experience.

There’s nothing wrong with combining plenty of relaxing downtime with an educational experience.  Learning can be fun, and when I see families who go the extra mile to make it, I know that the experiences will stay with their kids for a lifetime.

These US cities meet the test of having both educational and FUN attractions and things to do.  If you can’t enjoy spending time in these destinations, you’re just not trying to have a good vacation!

Here are my Top 7 U.S. cities for educational and cultural family travel:

1. Boston: History tops the chart in this city, with the Freedom Trail, a number of historical sites like Bunker Hill (map), museums, Harvard (map), MIT (map), and lots of other great schools, great architecture, shopping along the posh Newbury Street (map), and the always sold-out Red Sox at Fenway Park (map).  You can get along reasonably well with public transportation, but with a car you can venture a little further out to Salem (map) and some of the smaller fishing towns.
2. Chicago: The Windy City may have been home to stockyards, but it now boasts some pretty wonderful museums, including the world renowned Art Institute of Chicago (map).  You’ll also find lots of entertainment, including music, the performing arts, the family atmosphere of Navy Pier (map), Second City comedy (map), great architecture, the Shedd Aquarium (map), fabulous shopping along the Magnificent Mile, and the history of baseball at Wrigley Field (map).
3. Los Angeles & Vicinity: Best advice, get a car, as this is one spread out area, and public transportation is woefully inadequate.  From the Disney (map) and theme park influences of Orange County, to the beaches of Santa Monica (map) and Malibu (map), there is much to do and see in this performing arts capital of the west coast.  Museums, art, television, the Griffith Observatory (map), La Brea tar pits (map), and lots of specialized educational institutions, add to making this a fun AND educational destination.
4. New York City: Those who live in Manhattan claim that it’s the center of the universe with its business and entertainment focus.  You’ll find interesting architecture, old and new, and many iconic attractions.  The skyline is one of the most recognizable in the world, with the Empire State Building (map), Statue of Liberty (map), and the Brooklyn Bridge (map).  You’ll find outstanding theaters and performances  on Broadway, world famous shopping, museums like MoMA (map) and the Guggenheim (map), and an interesting international community.  Plus Central Park (map), fabulous food, and the vibrancy of being in a city of this size.  You can get around easily using public transportation, even if you venture out into the other boroughs.
5. Orlando: Of course there’s a strong Disney (map) presence, along with a multitude of other theme parks, but Orlando offers lots more.  Many of the theme parks offer educational programs, and young artists will love the performing classes.  You’re going to need a car to get around in this spread out city, and besides, you’ll want to drive out to Cocoa Beach (map), as well as to enjoy the attractions of the Space Coast, and Kennedy Space Center (map) and the Astronaut Hall of Fame (map).
6. Philadelphia: Lots of history from colonial times can be found in this city known as the Birthplace of America.  Independence Hall (map), the Liberty Bell (map), and the Constitutional Center (map) help us learn where our country has come from and how we have evolved.  Great museums and art.  The city is walkable, and with a decent train system that you can take out to the Lancaster (map) in the Amish country.  With a car you can expand your travels to Valley Forge (map).
7. Washington DC:  The seat of our federal government, with the White House (map), the Capitol (map) and the Supreme Court (map).  Lots of monuments, museums (many have free admission), art, performing arts, and the culture of an international community.  Many attractions are reachable via public transportation, but if you do have a car, venturing out to Mount Vernon (map), Baltimore (map), Bethesda (map), and some of the outlying areas are an easy day trip.

Reservations in many of these cities are getting hard to come by, but if it’s too late for this summer, keep these in mind for one of those other (and seemingly endless) school vacations.

Photo credit:  wikimedia

This post mentions: Thompson Square / Bunker Hill, Boston, MA, Harvard Square, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Newbury St, Fenway Park, Salem, MA, Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, The Second City - Chicago, John G Shedd Aquarium, Wrigley Field, Disneyland, Santa Monica Pier Restoration, Malibu, CA, The Griffith Observatory, La Brea, Los Angeles, CA, Empire State Building, Statue Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, MoMA - Museum of Modern Art (The), Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Central Park, Disney World, Orlando, FL, Cocoa Beach, Kennedy Space Center, Cocoa, FL, Astronaut Hall of Fame, Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, National Constitution Center, Lancaster, PA, Valley Forge, PA, The WhiteHouse, The Capitol Visitor Center, US Supreme Court, Mt Vernon, VA, Baltimore, MD, and Bethesda, MD.

Backpacks, once the “luggage” of choice for college-aged travelers, have become mainstream, with travelers of all ages preferring to travel light, with everything they need literally on their back.  It’s simple, avoids checked bag fees and waiting time, and forces travelers to pack light.

When carrying a backpack onto an airplane, however, there are inherent dangers.  After traveling millions of miles, and seeing backpacks in varying sizes and design, I’ve  seen far too many people injured by backpacks.

So, how about we all adopt the following Backpackers Code of Conduct for Air Travel:

• I will walk straight down the airplane aisle, knowing that when I turn from side-to-side someone sitting or standing behind me may inadvertently get thumped by my backpack.
• I will turn my head to look behind me before stepping back, knowing that the person behind me may otherwise have my backpack rammed into his/her face or body.
• If I must turn, I will first remove my backpack, knowing that if I don’t someone may get crunched by it.
• I will refrain from any quick movement, knowing that any loose straps and buckles may whip someone across the face or body causing discomfort or injury.
• If I am carrying my pack by one strap, I will check to see how it hangs off my shoulder, knowing that it might flop off to the side and hit someone.
• When stowing my backpack in the overhead bin I will situate it in such a way as to take up the least amount of space, knowing that the overhead bins are shared space for all passengers on board.

What do you say backpackers?

Photo credit:  Amazon