Top 7 Travel Packing Tips

“What should I pack?” is one of the most frequent questions I hear from people and truthfully sometimes mutter myself. I try to stick with a strategy of packing neutral colors with a few pieces of color to step it up a notch. This leaves me flexible, stylish and ready to go. My goal is to maximize what I take and minimize what I carry.

Here are my top 7 tips for travel packing:

1. Buy mix and match collections. Somewhere in the shopping evolution women decided to buy separates. When you pack, instead of laying out the shirts with the shirts and the pants with the pants, lay out your clothes in combinations that can be worn together. Each piece of clothing can (and should) be part of more than one outfit. Try to pack only  enough clothes to get you through each day of your trip.

2. Pack items you can wear at least twice. If you can’t get more than one wear from a piece of clothing, it should not go into your suitcase. Ask yourself, “Is this comfortable and durable enough to wear twice?” and “Can I use it to make at least two different outfits?” After asking these questions, I think you’ll find it easier and easier to pack appropriately.

3. Launder clothes. I know I can hear you saying “No way, not me!” If you are planning a 2 week or longer vacation, I would recommend laundering clothes instead of packing more items. A small zip-loc or old prescription bottle of your choice powder detergent will free up space for you to go on more shopping sprees.

4. Wear the clothes you buy on vacation. There is no need to “save” them until you return home. How fun is it to wear the sundress you bought in Rome when you are actually in Rome? Plus, when you get home and wear the sundress, it will bring back wonderful memories of your vacation.

5. Pack only 3 pairs of shoes. Aim for packing two casual pairs and one dressy. If you are anything like me, you love shoes but remember shoes take up a lot of room and are heavy. Wear one pair and pack the other 2 pairs. Besides if you have a need (ok a strong want) what better excuse to buy new shoes?!

6. Roll and layer. Pack your suitcase in such a way that maximizes the space available and minimizes wrinkling. Start with shoes and any heavier items go towards the bottom or wheels of suitcase to minimize wrinkles. Stuff your shoes with sleepwear, undergarments, etc – this will help keep the shoe’s shape and utilize space. Make use of all the inside and outside pockets. Roll your clothes and layer with dry cleaning bags to decrease friction and wrinkles.

7. Pack without emotion. It never fails. As you are zipping up your suitcase, a small voice whispers “you might need that extra dress” or “you’ll regret not packing the red cardigan sweater “. Don’t listen!  If you’ve packed a mix and match collection, trust me, you will be good to go.

Share with us what some of your travel packing tips?

How Safe Is Your Checked Luggage

Long ago, we simply locked our luggage to attempt to deter theft.  While using a lock may not prevent theft from your bags, it can’t hurt and will make your bag less likely to be a target.  With 9/11 and heighten security, locking your bags became difficult until the TSA approved locks were introduced. Now you can find a fair number of people who do lock their luggage as opposed to those who don’t especially for international flights. We all know if a thief wants to steal from your bag they will, regardless of any lock or preventative measure. The rule of thumb remains to never to pack any valuables in your checked bags regardless of a lock or not.

Any one who travels internationally should know their TSA approved locks might work passing through US airports when the agents have the keys but once you leave the country, no guarantees. It is not always likely that all agents overseas will have the keys for the TSA locks.

In the spirit of saving money and being prepared, I recently learned some countries actually require you to have your bags locked before they will check you in for your return flight home. Of course, the locks for sale in the airport are at an extremely high price. So if you are someone who always travels with your bags locked, then you should be set. If you are someone who does not normally lock your bags or uses zip ties, unless you want to pay upwards of $40.00 or more  for 2 locks, you may want to have spare locks. You can see where this could add up quickly and that you may want to consider always carrying locks with you just in case. Zip-ties are a popular option since they are inexpensive and easy to put on and take off, however some airport security checks may require more than a zip-tie for a lock.

Finally, always check the limits of the insurance coverage for your checked bags. If the standard coverage amount airlines provide is too low for your tastes, additional travel insurance may be something to consider. A good practice is to have name tags on your bags plus a unique identifying feature like a handle wrap or ribbon.  All those black bags can look the same coming around on the carousel.

How do you adjust to the changing luggage security requirements when you travel?

What Is On Your Bucket List?

One of my favorite movies is The Bucket List with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. The characters, Carter and Edward, are two terminally ill men that escape from a cancer ward to head off on a road trip with a wish list of to-dos before they “kick the bucket”.  A big part of this list is to travel to destinations like Egypt to see the pyramids, go on safari in Africa, ride a motorcycle on the Great Wall of China, dine high in the hills on the Cote d’Azur, explore the Taj Mahal in India and climb the Himalayas.

You don’t have to be sick or dying or even to make your bucket list but you need to have a plan! If you have a list then you can prioritize it or better yet, be on the look out for a great value.

Have you made your bucket list? Dreaming is free and limitless. Don’t worry about the “how” just yet – focus on the fun, the joy of the idea of going to the places you dream to visit. Start with where ever you are most comfortable and build your trips from there. Where is the one place you really dream to visit? Make that the number one on your list. One of my friends recently told me “when there is a will to travel,  people find a way” and I agree. Life is a journey and it is meant to be fun.

What are some of the destinations on your Bucket List?

Answers To Your Travel Questions

In any industry, it is a given that you have to be knowledgeable of your market’s offerings. It is all about knowing the answers or knowing where to find the answers. Being of service to clients on requests, the key is to have strong relationships with well connected people of influence. My relationship with Virtuoso goes a long way to bridge any gaps. However, I believe a true measure of success in knowing the answers is knowing my client –  their interests, their preferences both positive and negetive, plus their wants and needs.

Each customer is unique and what they value is equally as unique. A good Travel Advisor keeps ongoing notes with each customer. Every time they chat,  it's an opportunity to learn something new.

One size does not fit all. Just because a place was listed highly, does not mean it will meet everyone's needs and wants. However, combine professional knowledge of the pros and cons of a destination or property with the knowledge of the customer’s preferences and interests to find the best choices for their request is the one who has the answers to your travel questions.

When you are working with your travel professional on your next trip, ask yourself – do they remember your favorite food, your favorite beverage, what your hobbies are, and who you like to travel with or without? Do they specialize in the kind of travel you want?  Think of  Travel Advisors like doctors – there are generalists, but the really good ones specialize because no one can know it all. Make sure the travel advisor you use specializes in the destination or style of travel you want to experience.

Does your travel advisor take the extra steps to make your travel special?

Summer Vacations and Family Traditions

Each summer brings back fond memories of traditional family vacations. As we get older, things tend to fade but not these memories. They are ingrained. I can remember every family trip we took;  the good , the bad and the ugly. I would not trade them for the world!

While time away is an opportunity for fun, relaxation, and togetherness, a travel advisor knows arranging a trip for everyone isn’t always easy.  They can not help with the 1,001 question of  “Are we there yet” but a good travel advisor is available to save you time and frustration, available to assist you with bringing a smile to everyone’s face. They can advise you on cruises, custom itineraries, rail travel, visa requirements, all-inclusives, guided tours and so much more. Whether you love the beach, thinking about a national park, love the idea of an amusement park, considering a dude ranch, maybe someone in the family is a history buff, or loves a rail trip along the scenic countryside, perhaps the entire family wants to join in on a multigenerational cruise, even snow skiing south of the equator where it is winter now; what ever inspires you they can help!

The tradition of going on a family vacation helps bond your family. Do you have a family tradition, a place you go every year? Perhaps even your parents and their parents went there too.

What is your fondest family vacation memory?

Top Tips For First Time Cruisers

On departing Vancouver this past Sunday, I had the good fortune of chatting with a few cruisers that had just finished an Alaskan cruise.  I like hearing different people’s perspective, speaking with them about what they liked and did not like as well as the things they were unaware of.

I think of cruising is kind of like dating. It is great when you are with the RIGHT match, and by that I mean you and your traveling companions are paired up with the right cruise line and the cruise vessel for you. What one person feels is the best, may not be the same as the next. Personal preference plays a huge factor in this. Just like in dating you may not be attracted to every person on the dates you go on. Cruising can be very complicated and challenging when you don’t know - what you don’t know. Some first time cruisers think after they have paid-in-full for their dream vacation cruise that they are done and everything is included. Unfortunately they learn the lesson that this is not true after the fact.

Like dating, you have to DREAM about all the aspects you want on your cruise:

Courtesy of Seabourn

• what activities you will do- read and relax by the pool or explore every port or a mix? do you want to gamble? do you like nightlife? would you prefer to stay overnight in a certain port? are there children’s programs? do you need all kinds of activities for all kinds of age and taste ranges? what destinations do you want to visit? do you want mainstream ports or off the beaten path ports? is the ship your destination or are the ports?  does the ship have shopping? what kind of fitness options are available? do you want to have some spa treatments? do you have to make appointment for your entertainment or can you just show up?
• what is your cabin is like- is it cozy or spacious? is there a bathtub? are there two sinks? is there a vanity outside the bathroom? is your cabin close to the elevators or under the dance club? if you are sailing from east to west around Italy for example, does your cabin face the view of the coast or of the ocean? do you need connecting cabins? do you need a wheelchair accessible cabin?
• what your view is like- is there a window or is inside cabin OK? is there a balcony or is it just a window? is your balcony covered or is it uncovered?  does the window have an obstructed view?
• what the meals and beverages are like – is there a line to be seated? is it buffet style or do you have servers? is the dining open seating or scheduled? what kinds of beverages are included in the price? do the specialty dining rooms charge? will you eat with the same people every meal or can you mix it up? can they meet your special diet requirements?
• how many people are around - does the ship have 5000 guests, 2000 guests, 1200 guests, 600 guests, 450 guests, 200 guests or as few as 8 guests? what is the staff to guest ratio? will you be able to secure a lounge chair by the pool each day? how long will it take for your to disembark in port?
• what are a few of the extras you need to be aware of - are gratuities auto paid or do you need to pay them upon disembarkation? do you owe gratuities at all or is that included? are the pool cabanas an extra charge? are there days of the week that things go on sale? are there better days to eat in certain restaurants? is there a better time to book you spa appointment? is the spa treatment included? is the shore excursion included? can I book a separate excursion? are there formal dress nights? do you have butler or concierge service with your cabin? is your air flight included? do they carry your brand of beverage? do you get fresh fruit in your cabin each day? do you have to take a tender to land or are you walking off directly dockside? do you get seasick easily? are transfers included?

Courtesy of Oceania

Now is the time to PLAN and prioritize what are must haves and what are nice to haves.  The best way to get the most on your list is to plan early. Gone are the days of the last minute discounts, in fact many cruise lines are discounting for early reservations. I recommend employing a travel specialist to assist you in getting the best cabin, fare, and available amenities rather than going at it on your. Many travel advisors have access to special upgrades, excursions, and more that you will not find access to on your own or without a lot of time spent researching.

Once you are booked then it is time to TRAVEL and enjoy the vacation. As you are completing the cruise, many lines offer a discount to book your next cruise while on board. Definitely an offer to consider. And finally it is time to REPEAT the cycle and begin dreaming of your next vacation.

What are some of the cruising lessons you would like to share with other first time cruisers?

Dream. Plan. Travel. Repeat.

The Parallels of Climbing and Business

In the General Session #2 at Cruise3Sixty 2010 in Vancouver, I learned some valuable lessons for my travel business that I feel are worth sharing.  Our keynote speaker is Alison Levine, who I had not heard of before but WOW she is an inspiring person, who really exemplifies how we should all use the present moment for the most it can be.

Alison says “The skills required to climb big mountains are no different from the skills required to succeed in business. Leadership, teamwork, determination, tenacity, and the ability to adapt to a changing environment are as critical in the jet stream as they are in the workplace. This presentation will take you on an incredible journey above the clouds; where the magnificent views make up for the sub-zero temperatures, hurricane force winds and altitude sickness…where willpower is as important a qualification as experience, and good judgment is the most essential piece of equipment.”

The lessons I was reminded of from her presentation are simple but solid and true:

• Figure out how to get it done with the resources you have
• Ask the right questions and keep on asking until you get to a yes
• Do not let fear stop you
• For daunting tasks or goals, break it down into manageable pieces
• Fear is OK but complacency will kill you
• Sometimes no matter how good or prepared you are things can go wrong
• When you have people looking to you – no matter how you feel – put on a smile
• The conditions need to be right
• Panicking will NOT help

These are not only good for climbing and business but travel in general.

Can you recall  your last vacation or business trip, do any of these  points apply?
I would love to hear from you.

Vancouver, Here I Am

Today, I am traveling to Vancouver for the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) 360, an annual event. This event offers ship inspections, educational sessions and networking opportunities that are specific to the cruise industry.

My hotel of choice is the Fairmont Waterfront, being just steps aways from Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal. It is also within walking distance to the central business district, Gastown, Robson Street, Pacific Center shopping mall, and the Vancouver Art Gallery. In the back of my mind I am thinking, who has time for a convention when I could be exploring the seawall to Stanley Park, a 1000 acre park in the center of the city and larger than New York City’s Central Park? So much to do and so little free time.

Personally, I am excited because it has been several years since I moved from Seattle to Dallas. Frankly, I really miss the scenic views of snow covered mountains, oceans, evergreens and the very cosmopolitan vibe. Don’t get me wrong, I like Dallas but it is very different from the Pacific Northwest! In Dallas, June means we are already in the mid to upper 90’s every day, where Vancouver is forecasting low 60’s for their highs. I also look forward to the amazing assortment of fruits and veggies along with a nice fresh piece of Salmon.  I digress.

Professionally, I am excited because this is when I can learn at a rapid rate about ALL the cruise lines that I am most interested in – up close and personal,  meet the reps I have not met face to face yet and strengthen those networking connections.  Celebrating 4 days of cruise information.  Cruising is not a big business for nothing!

In a very few short days, some of my favorite clients are departing on a week long cruise in Alaska on American Safari Cruises. What a great birthday gift they are enjoying! With so many kinds of cruising from River Cruising like I just did in Europe, to Small Ship Cruising, Classic and Large Ship Cruising. I can guarantee there is something for everyone! The key is in knowing the brands and what they offer in order to best match each traveler to the perfect ship and itinerary.

What is your favorite part about cruising?