Travel Talk

Enjoy New Orleans Without Breaking the Bank

2012-03-21T07:00:00Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

There's no better time to celebrate the spirit and support the ongoing rebuilding efforts New Orleans than now - and not just for Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras. Historic Spanish-style architecture, famous drinking establishments with storied pasts, colorful casts of street musicians and characters, and narrow brick-lined streets makes for one of the country's most dynamic cities. For budget-minded travelers, it's an easy destination for soaking up true Southern hospitality and having fun without spending a fortune.

Best taste of Creole Country
For a slice of pork paradise with a down home vibe head to Cochon in the Warehouse District. Southwestern Louisiana native Chef/owner Donald Link's marries minimalist, but warm environs, with feel-good food including fried boudin with pickled peppers, crawfish pie and roast suckling pig. Carnivore-phobes, don't fear: half of the menu features locally-fished seafood.

]]> Best sleeps
A strong sense of Southern hospitality radiates throughout the experience at centrally-located Wyndham Riverfront New Orleans. Recently renovated, this 202 room property offers every imaginable modern amenity, yet still maintains its old-world charm. History buffs can book a room in the historic section of the hotel, which was once a rice mill. These rooms feature 16-foot ceilings, exposed brick and plantation-style windows.

Booze with a bang
Locals cite Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop as the oldest watering hole in the country. Named for the legendary pirate, Jean Lafitte, the candle-lit bar lacks most modern bar amenities, but serves up a convivial atmosphere, surprisingly strong cocktails and a charming off-key piano bar singer. Get woozy on the "Voodoo Daiquiri," a powerful purple slushy concoction.

Best happy hour
For a spirited perspective of the city, Gray Line Tours offers New Orleans' Original Cocktail Tour. (A more sobering trip is the Hurricane Katrina - America's Greatest Catastrophe Tour.) Walk the education (and inebriating) 2.5 hour cocktail chronology tour of the French Quarter at 4 p.m. daily - just in time to kick off happy hour(s).

Late night with the locals
For a relatively tourist-free night on the town, hit up Rock 'n' Bowl at Mid City Lanes. Arrive early to put your name on the waiting list to bowl at one of the highly coveted eighteen retro lanes, circa 1940s. Or boogie to the live local music that graces the nearby stage - Zydeco night is especially popular. Cheap cover and ice cold beer, coupled with top notch people-watching makes for an evening out that is every bit as entertaining as Bourbon Street. Note: Cab fare from the French Quarter shouldn't run more than $15-20 (including tip).

One-of-a-kind shopping
Magazine Street runs from Canal Street to Audubon Park, and is six miles of power-shoppers bliss. Pick up an all-day pass bus pass for $5.00, stop as often as you like along the route, then relax and recap your retail scores on the sprawling green lawns of Audubon Park.

Kid-friendly
Mardi Gras World is a great attraction for grown ups and kids alike. Jam-packed with bits and pieces of parade floats and sculpted characters, it's like a giant toy box of fun. Take the ferry from downtown New Orleans right across the river and enjoy the tour - it includes a movie, free king cake and an opportunity for kids to dress up in authentic Mardi Gras costumes.

Local culture
Walk around the Jackson Square, or the heart of the French Quarter or Vieux Carre (Old Square) area during the day and you'll see a variety of street performer who entertain here on a daily basis including: musicians, break dancers, tap dancers, jugglers, acrobats, tarot card readers, mimes, and clowns.

See, Be Seen and Celebrity-Spot in Los Angeles

2012-03-07T08:00:00Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

Although my name isn't Paris, Nicole or Lindsay, it's still possible to shop, play and stay in La-La Land like a star.

In this image-centric city, looking like a million bucks -- and like you belong -- is your fast track ticket to gaining access to the exclusive world of the famous and fortunate.

It's simple: Accessorize yourself with as much bling as your body weight can handle. Even Tarina Tarantino pink plastic is okay. Next, outfit yourself with an energy drink or bottle of designer water, a grossly overpriced handbag, oversized sunglasses, a small dog and a vice.

Men, you too can be cool, even if you don't have talent, a big bank account or are in a band. Here's how: act confident, but not conceited. It's not about having a killer pick up line. Dress the part. Designer duds aren't a necessity, but style and good grooming habits are. Adopt a nickname. Ho-hum names like Johnny don't get noticed (unless it's followed by Depp), but nicknames like Tank or Rocket do.

Last tip: never ever hire a limo - it screams prom or Aunt Pearl's funeral. Car service is always the way to arrive in style.

Now you're ready to see and be seen. Here are the hottest spots in L.A. to get ready for your close-up:

]]> CUT
Dining at CUT isn't for the financially faint of heart. Its bone-in steaks and Kobe beef sashimi are best savored on an expense account or special occasion. The über-trendy/top notch culinary creation of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck and architect Richard Meier attracts a red-carpet worthy stream of stars from TomKat to Will and Jada.

The Ivy
90210's power dining goes down on The Ivy's front porch, behind the white picket fence and just beyond the paparazzo's prying lenses. The Monday through Friday lunch crowd brings out major players like Simon Cowell and J. Lo.

Madeo
Old school Italian cuisine and a cozy environment make this a celeb-rich spot. Although the clientele isn't necessarily as young and hip as other L.A. hot spots, Madeo's thin-crust pizzas and Mama's legendary lasagna make P.Diddy, Cameron Diaz and Pete Wentz repeat customers. Be sure to make reservations about a week in advance.

Avalon Hotel
At Avalon Hotel, in the heart of Beverly Hills -- the wealthiest and most glamorous part of Los Angeles -- the poolside scene at its al fresco restaurant Oliverio is all mid-century retro modern fabulous. Beautiful bronzed men lounge around reading Esquire, while model-types protect their flawless bodies in the shaded cabanas.

Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
The specialty coffee chain that popularized ice blended drinks and Chai Lattes caffeinates Britney Spears and Miley Cyrus, and was featured in the HBO show Entourage as the regular meeting place for Vincent Chase and his associates. Several Los Angeles locations.

Pinkberry
Nicknamed "Crackberry" by its loyal devotees, it causes lines to form out the door for its light-as-air frozen yogurt. Pick your flavor, your size, and add toppings such as strawberries, Cap 'n Crunch cereal and carob chips. At 20 calories per ounce, it's no wonder body-conscious starlets Reese Witherspoon and Kim Kardashian are among the faithful. Several Los Angeles locations. Star-sightings most prevalent at Westwood location.

Chateau Marmont
Harry Cohn, founder of Columbia Pictures, once said, "If you must get in trouble, do it at the Chateau Marmont." Lindsay Lohan did just that when she reportedly racked up a swaggering $1 million bill while shacking up in its posh bungalows back in 2006. Still one of the most expensive and prestigious properties in Hollywood, it's also a favorite haunt for celebrity escapades. Witness the aftermath at the popular Sunday brunch, where well-earned hangovers are nursed and the dining room can read like a "who's who" of hook ups.

Kitson
Fashionistas (and hoards of pesky paparazzi) flock to this trendy apparel and accessory boutique for kids, men and women. Expect lots of Earnest Sewn denim, as well as celebrity collections from Kimora Lee Simmons, Paris Hilton and Lauren Conrad.

Fred Segal
A must stop on the celebrity paycheck-blowing circuit since 1960, the complex is comprised of mini-Fred Segal branded boutiques, such as "Fred Segal Sparkle" and "Fred Segal Fun." In the center of it all is a small café, Mauro's, which sates wearied shoppers like Gwyneth Paltrow and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. There's a second store in Santa Monica, one block east of the Third Street Promenade. Hint: Hit their semi-annual sales.

Runyon Canyon Park
Not only does this 134-acre dog-friendly park boast a heart-pumping workout -- the main path winds along the canyon floor ascending at Cloud's Rest -- it's a mini-slice of scenic heaven for celebrity fitness buffs such as Matthew McConaghey, Charlize Theron and Sheryl Crow. The round-trip hike to Cloud's Rest is about two miles and takes an hour. Celeb-spotting here is pretty easy -- the outfit de rigueur is a baseball cap and oversized sunglasses.

Thibiant Beverly Hills Day Spa
At this Tinseltown retreat, clients' favorite services include French and Tahitian manicures and pedicures, the Beauty Lift Facial and tension-melting Thai massage. Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Aniston reportedly also go to Thibiant to get camera ready.

Malibu Beach
Countless high-profile celebrities, including former Bond boy Pierce Brosnan and Pamela Anderson, call the stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway that snakes along Malibu Beach home. Although it is technically a private beach, anywhere above the high tide line (stick to the wet sand) is fair game. Hard-to-find public access routes are situated off P.C.H. at the 19900, 20300, and 22700 blocks. Or head to the Malibu Pier and walk right along the shoreline past the multi-million dollar beachside homes to Carbon Beach.

Top 10 Healthy Travel Snacks

2012-02-29T08:00:00Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

I'm always looking for ideas for healthy travel snacks. On a recent visit to the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade (NASFT) Winter Fancy, I spent three days scouring more than 1,300 food vendors to figure out different snacks for trips ideas.

After scouring close to 200,000-square-feet, here is my top ten healthy travel snacks on my "must pack" travel list. Whether you're hitting the road or flying the friendly skies, these ten healthy travel snacks are easy to transport and far tastier than your usual mini-market or airport sundry store snack suspects. Keep an eye out for these snacks and give 'em a try.

Cat Cora's Kitchen by Gaea Olive Snack Packs. These straight-from-Greece Kalamata olives come in convenient, resealable TSA-friendly sized packages and fun flavors like oregano and lemon. Hello, in-flight happy hour accompaniment!

]]> Sante Nuts. Handpicked and made in small batches, Sante Nuts come in a variety of nut combinations and flavors from almonds with garlic, cayenne and black pepper to pecans with pure cane sugar.

Simply 7 Lentil Chips. I love salty snacks, but don't like the fat most potato chips pack, which is why these lentil-based chips are a top pick. Salty, savory (flavors include sea salt, creamy dill and bruschetta) and 40% less fat than its potato counterpart, makes this a "go to" snack on the go.

Seth Greenberg's Original New York Brownie Crunch. For sweet tooths (like me), this may be the perfect snack. Think perfect crunch, wafer thin and plenty of rich chocolate flavor, plus three flavors to pick from. Finally, a chocolate product that won't melt in your bag.

Ozery Bakery Crispy Pitas. Ozery Bakery serves up grain-based pita chips in tasty flavors like rosemary garlic, cranberry pumpkin seed and organic spelt with flax. Thick cut and rustic, these baked goods are hearty and wholesome.

GoGo SqueeZ. This cleverly packaged snack tickled our inner kid (and was tasty enough to sate our grown-up foodie tendencies). GoGoSqueeZ' has created the first all natural 100% fruit squeezable applesauce in a pouch, which means no spoons necessary or mess. High fives for kid-friendliness.

Two Degrees Bars. What's not to love about a snack with a conscience. Energy and granola bars are essentials in my travel bag, but these bars give back - each purchase of a Two Degree Bar provides a meal for a hungry child. Cherry almond and chocolate banana are among the flavor standouts.

Just Tomatoes. Get your (dried) fruits and veggies fix with Just Tomatoes' tasty varieties like corn, peas, blueberries, and strawberries and bananas. Resealable pouches mean no smooshed bananas or bruised apples in the bottom of your travel bag or stuck to the car seat.

Natural Vines. Licorice is one of my all-time fave sweet snacks, and Natural Vines does lovely all-natural strawberry and standard anise versions. These licorice bits are perfectly textured and pack a subtle hint of sweet to sate any on the road sweet cravings.

Kitchen Table Bakers All Parmesan Gourmet Cheese Crisps. Full confession: I scarfed down an entire pack of these cheese crisps in one sitting. If you like hard, salty cheese, Kitchen Table Bakers makes it addictively good with these baked snacks made with flavors like sesame, jalapeno and garlic.

What are your favorite healthy travel snacks? Please tweet us at @WyndhamWomen or leave a comment on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WomenOnTheirWay.

Is a First or Business Class Ticket Worth It?

2012-02-22T08:00:00Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

As I get older, I've grown a bit persnickety about air travel. Once a fierce proponent of the red-eye flight as a way to sleep and get somewhere (I'm a natural born multi-tasker), the thought of having to sleep in a slightly tilted upright position makes me squirm. Throw in the possibility of being stuck in a too-small middle seat with limited legroom, and well, the joys of air travel start to look a lot less glamorous.

As a preemptive measure, I've learned to stockpile frequent flyer miles and do whatever I can to maintain almighty elite status with my preferred air carriers. When I'm faced with a long-haul flight or dreaded red-eye and cannot finagle an upgrade though, I've been known to bite the bullet and buy a first or business class ticket. For me, it's not all about warmed nuts and endless glasses of Chardonnay, but the comfort, convenience and arriving at my final destination feeling like a human being.

On a recent red-eye flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Lima, Peru (LIM), I was beyond grateful to be flying LAN Business Class. The first leg of my flight from Seattle touched down in at LAX with 10 hours to spare before I headed to South America. The desk clerk at LAN was kind enough to let me check my bag hours and hours in advance and allow access to the Oneworld Lounge. Located on the 5th level of Tom Bradley International Terminal, this lounge serves all business and first class passenger from several airlines, as well as Oneworld alliance carriers.

There, I spent a very productive day working via complimentary Wi-Fi. I also took advantage of the lounge's extensive food service, which rotated throughout the day. Coffee? Yes, please. A bowl of soup? Sure. A little something sweet? Absolutely. As my flight grew nearer, I freshened up with a quick shower in the spa-like facilities, which featured Molton Brown products and big fluffy bath towels. And then, I sipped a few glasses of Champagne from the self-serve bar (there was also a well-stocked and staffed bar with beer, wine and spirits).

]]> When it was time to board my flight, I was completely blissed out. On board, I had plenty of room to stretch out, pick from dozens of movies on my in-flight entertainment system and sample the products in the complimentary Bulgari amenity kit. As always, LAN's in-flight staff was friendly and helpful. It took no effort to fall asleep in LAN's new Premier Business seats, which recline to a 180-degree fully flat bed. I woke to the smell of coffee and had enough time to brush my hair and teeth, moisturize and put on a few beauty essentials before we landed in Lima. The best part was I was rested and ready to hit the ground running.

Ladies, are there special circumstances when you simply must fly first or business class? If so, please tweet us at @WyndhamWomen or leave a comment on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WomenOnTheirWay.

Disclaimer: Charyn was provided complimentary roundtrip airfare by LAN Peru for an assignment that took her to The Amazon, although she has flown LAN repeatedly in the past for her frequent travels to South America.

Travel Sized Beauty Products

2012-02-17T13:41:05Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

Skip traipsing around town for travel beauty products from your favorite brands - 3floz.com makes finding travel-sized products easy with its collection of 3.4 oz. or less travel beauty products and kits. This fabulous online boutique focuses on luxe travel beauty products and takes the sting out of having to say good-bye to items that are not travel-sized products at the TSA checkpoint.

The site, founded by beauty junkies/girls-on-the-go Kate Duff and Alexi Mintz, makes it easy to take your can't-live-without travel beauty products and essentials with you - without having to check a bag.

]]> Some of our recommended products include:

Kate's Skin Kit keeps skin hydrated and clear with an arsenal of six products, including First Aid Beauty Detox Eye Roller and Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel.
Anthony for Men Grab and Go Kit (10-piece) for 3floz.com or items from Cali surf culture fanatics, Baxter of California (famed for their Shave Bar in Los Angeles) are great for male travelers
Supergoop Fusion Lip Balm (SPF 30) for sun worshippers looking to protect their pucker
Herban Essentials' Towelettes in lemon, lavender or peppermint, save precious luggage space and keep skin feel hydrated and fresh in the hottest of climates.
Phyto Express' RX Ultra Nourishing Kit is for travelers who want to keep their tresses in tip top shape. This product is a two-step shampoo and mask regimen for distresses hair.
Malin + Goetz' Essential Kit will keep your body happy from head-to-toe.

When traveling, I tend to subscribe to a "less-is-more" travel style, although I don't like to compromise my beauty regimen on the road and rely on limited drugstore travel beauty products. Even under the smoothest of circumstances, travel can take its toll on your face, hair and body, so it's probably not the best environment to introduce beauty product pinch hitters.

3floz.com not only makes travel-sized products a bit more convenient, they make it possible to take your favorite name brand travel beauty products on the road (without paying pricey baggage fees) with the simple click of a mouse.

Travel and Relationships - Finding Balance Between Your Partner and Your Passport

2012-02-15T08:00:00Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

I can't imagine it's easy to date a wanderluster. Women like me are always planning their next move, and that move usually requires a flight, a layover, a stamp on a passport, and sometimes, a series of CDC-recommended shots. I love my long-term partner of eight years, really I do, but I was never meant to be a stay-at-home anything - wife, mother, you name it.

Thankfully, my other half has always been very supportive of my need to travel - sometimes half-way around the world on 72-hours notice. We have certain understandings - like when I've been away for too long and it's time to come home, or when he doesn't want me going to specific regions of the world for safety reasons. But he's never stood in my way of adventure and it agrivates me when I cross people in my travels who ask me increduously, "Your partner lets you travel like this?" Lets me? What am I? A modern day Laura Ingalls Wilder? I don't think so. It works for us because we've found some semblance of balance.

Not all relationships are suited for this kind of come-and-go scenario.We communicate well, which helps immensely. Also, we're both fiercely independent individuals, so while we adore each other, distance truly does make our hearts grow fonder. All the small stuff that would typically bug someone in a 24/7 relationship seems to slip away when you have a plane ticket booked or have been separated for weeks.

]]> When I'm traveling, I try to check in once a day, whether via a text, email or phone call. It's more of an "I'm alive and well" gesture versus a "let's re-hash the day" dialogue. I'm not much of a phone talker, so I tend to spare my partner the daily play-by-play of my adventures and save it for an in-person show and tell. I suppose this temporary suspension of being a fully present partner requires a certain amount of trust, but it's worked for eight years without fail.

The most difficult dynamic we've faced was when I took a year off to volunteer. It's one thing to be apart, but to spend extended periods of time in a developing country provides a whole new set of health, safety and connectivity concerns. Frequently, I'd face compromised situations and be unable to touch base with home. I would worry knowing that he would worry when he didn't hear from me as planned. But sometimes things like a corrupt SIM card can get in the way of even the ablest global smart phone. Or sometimes, the nearest internet café is 90 minutes and two chicken buses away. Welcome to the world of a wanderluster.

Is it easy? Not always. Is it worth it? Usually. For me, the key is to communicate and be sensitive to my partner when making travel plans. Relationships ebb and flow and needs change. If my partner is going through a rough patch, I'm not going to hop on a plane for weeks on end, if at all. Although he doesn't log as much travel time as he'd like, I know he'd do the same for me. I supposed being a childless traveler adds some flexibility to the mix, but I believe it is possible to strike a balance between your partner and your passport if you're upfront with your intentions and talk about your plans.

Coupled up globetrotting gals, how do you make it all work? Leave a comment on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WomenOnTheirWay or Tweet your comment using @WyndhamWomen.

The Little Black Book to Airports

2012-02-01T08:00:00Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

If you're like me, you plan your flight itineraries carefully, taking layover destinations into consideration. There are regional meals I don't want to miss, bartenders I'm on a first name basis with, and retail adventures to be had. Travel isn't all about getting from Point A to Point B, right? It's about the journey, the adventure, and the shortest TSA lines. (I kid. Well, kind of.) So instead of sitting in a hard plastic seat texting your friends and watching CNN, don't miss these 20 "must" things to do on your next layover.

]]> 1. For cheap eats, don't miss the super-cheap empanadas at Café Versailles at MIA.

2. Do your nails need a quick pick-me-up? Try the 20-minute "Butter Me Up" manicure at Butter London at SEA.

3. If you eat only one thing at PHL, don't miss the crab fries with white creamy cheese sauce at Chickie's and Pete's (Terminals A, C and E).

4. For impulsive cosmetics purchases, I'm like a crow to sparkly things with the duty free retail therapy at AEP in Buenos Aires.

5. Check in on Foursquare (https://foursquare.com/) for deals and restaurant reviews.

6. SIN in Singapore offers travelers a moment of "om" with the world's first Butterfly Garden in Terminal 3.

7. For stressed-out travelers, the neck and back massages at XpressSpa (http://www.xpresspa.com) come to the rescue at 14 major airports.

8. Need an authentic Italian fix? Grab a slice of Neapolitan-style pizza at Crust at LGA's Delta Terminal.

9. If you need a last-minute souvenir, check out Erwin Pearl at MSP's Main Terminal.

10. Need an NYC-themed tsotchke? Swing by Muji to Go at the JetBlue Terminal at JFK.

11. Stay connected at CMB in Sri Lanka with free Wi-Fi at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf franchise outpost.

12. If you crave a kick butt meat fix, try the burger with cheese, bacon, grilled onions and parmesan fries at Todd English's Bonfire at BOS.

13. Download the iFly Pro app (http://www.ifly.com) for real-time flight tracking at more than 700 commercial airports.

14. PWM recently opened its new $75 million expanded terminal, which includes two Shipyard Brewing "Brewport" bars.

15. Chocoholics should plan for a long layover at DUB to savor its Chocolate Lounge. Mmm...

16. The crispy lobster roll at Chef Michael Schulson's Deep Blue Sushi at JFK has gained a cult following.

17. If you have time to kill at IAD, there is a shuttle bus that runs every 45 minutes from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. between the terminal and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Each way takes 10 minutes.

18. For inspired eats, premium drinks and a bird's-eye view of Tom Bradley International Terminal, the oneworld Lounge at LAX delivers a lux layover experience.

19. If you forgot to pick up a bottle of pisco (the spirit of Peru's national cocktail), visit El Rincon Del Pisco at LIM.

20. Need a grab a few zzz's or a shower? Take a "time out" and book a sleeping pod at LHR's Yotel.

What airport amenities have you encountered in your travels that have really made your travel life more pleasant? I'd love to hear from you - please email me at cpfeuffer (at) yahoo (dot) com. Happy travels!

P.S. For international airport codes, visit http://worldwideairportguide.com

Sustainable Fashion without Retail Guilt

2012-01-05T13:42:50Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

I'd hardly consider myself a clotheshorse, but I like to pack items that make sense and look stylish when I'm on the road. I want shoes that multi-task, dresses that won't wrinkle, and socks that will keep me feet dry and warm. Above all, I want to be comfortable, while looking like I didn't just roll out of bed (even if I did, which of course, I probably did).

]]> It's hard to find pieces that fit the functional fashion bill without feeling like you've stepped out of an REI catalog. Don't get me wrong, I adore REI - I do live in the outdoor gear retailer's birthplace of Seattle, after all. But finding travel separates that can transition from day to night with a dose of outdoor adventure mixed in can be a tough - and expensive - task. It doesn't help that I hate to shop and don't like owning a lot of "stuff" that will inevitably make its way to the Goodwill donation bin.

This is why {r}evolution apparel's Versalette makes this travel girl who counts every packed ounce absolutely giddy. Designed by two girlfriends who met in Australia in 2008, this stylish multi-functional garment can be worn 15 different ways. From skirt or scarf to purse and poncho, this U.S.A.-made, sustainable piece will increase fashion options on the road while cutting down on suitcase space. Hello, less is more! For a gal who's mindful of her carbon footprint, I love that it's made of 50% recycled cotton, 50% recycled water bottles and will be produced within a 200-mile radius.

As if this start-up endeavor wasn't already enough of a fashion change-maker, it was sucessfully financed on Kickstarter.com, the same online funding platform that helped fund my year of volunteer travel. I backed the Versalette and look forward to reporting back when my very own arrives in March. This versatile item is just the beginning - these gals have big visions for changing the eco-fashion landscape and I'm excited to watch their collection grow.

In the meantime, here's to women making a difference in the world, especially if they make life easier. If they're mindful and inspire wanderlust in the process, well, they're pretty much golden in my book. And maybe, just maybe the{r}evolution apparel gals will inspire me to step up my fashion savvy since they make it so simple to look good and do good.

Video: http://vimeo.com/32150641

7 Skin Care Tips for Frequent Flyers

2011-10-19T07:00:00Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

Flying can (and will) take a toll on even the best cared for of complexions. Take the stress of air travel coupled with altitude and recycled air in a confined space and you've got the makings for potential skin problems. As a gal who's been known to log 100 flights a year, my stressed-out face can attest.

Here are 7 tips on how to keep your skin looking refreshed and fabulous, whether you're 36,000 feet in the air or time zones away from home.

]]> Makeup
Heather Zorzini worked as a flight attendant with a major international airline for more than 25 years, visiting 40 different countries and accumulating over 20 million air miles. She advises frequent flyers to avoid mascara on long-haul or overnight flights. "The dryness of the aircraft cabin will cause it to flake and irritate your (already) tired eyes, especially if you sleep or wear an eye mask," she says.

Pucker
Dry, cracked lips are one of my travel pet peeves, so I keep my pout soft by frequently applying lip balm. I'm not a slave to any particular brand as long as it has SPF for once I'm on the ground. If my lips are really dehydrated, I'll resort to Vaseline, which doubles as a heavy-duty moisturizer for knees, elbows and cuticles.

Moisturize
Julia Homs, founder of eco-friendly beauty retailer Anthō, suggests that travelers apply a moisturizer before taking off. Anthō's Lullaby for Dry Skin face serum leaves my stressed, almost 40-something skin feeling baby soft. I also like that it's 99% organic.

Eat
"While peanuts and pretzels may look delicious, salt can cause swelling," says Dr. Howard Murad, owner of Murad Skincare. "Instead, eat your water while in flight to stay hydrated and snack on raw fruits and vegetables like carrots and apples, which are filled with water and cell strengthening nutrients," he advises. Since it's rare to get an in-flight meal these days and the snack cart tends to be filled with diet deal breakers, I bring my own snacks, like a fresh piece of fruit or a homemade sandwich, on board.

Stretch
Dr. Shirley Madhere, a holistic plastic surgeon advises frequent flyers to keep moving. "Exercise stimulates blood flow which will help increase circulation to help maintain health of skin," she says. When I'm in-flight, I have a few simple moves I like to do: Ankle rotations keep the blood flowing in my legs. Flexing my feet stretches my calf muscles. Raising my arms over my head, then clasping my hands and pushing my palms toward the ceiling releases any tension in my shoulders.

Hydrate
Diane Radford MD, offers a physician's perspective on general advice for skin care and tells frequent flyers to stay hydrated. "To calculate the correct amount of water to drink per day, take your body weight in pounds and divide by 2. For example, a 140 pound woman should drink 70 oz. of water per day," says Radford. I pack a reusable water bottle and fill it once I've passed through TSA. That way, I don't have to pay inflated airport prices for bottled water or wait for beverage service on the flight. As much as I love coffee or an in-flight Bloody Mary, both are no no's if you want to stay hydrated,

Peepers
I'm one of those gals who gets puffy at the first sign of stress - or a minute less than eight solid hours of sleep. When I'm home, cucumber slices or chilled green tea bags does the trick for tired eyes. But when I'm in the air, one swipe of my trusty Christina Skincare S.O.S. Eye Serum around each eye keeps the jetlag away. I'm all about convenience and love this product's rollerball delivery system.

So travels, tell me what you do to keep your skin looking and feeling good when you're on the road? Do you have a particular preventative measure you take, a beauty product you can't live without or a routine you follow? Please let me know at cpfeuffer (at) yahoo (dot) com.

Melbourne Bars and Clubs: Bar-hopping in Melbourne

2011-10-06T15:42:17Z

By Charyn Pfeuffer

Never fear: cocktail culture is alive and well in Melbourne and imbibing has never been better. Speak-easy style hideaways are blossoming, transforming impossibly small spaces into intimate watering holes. Smart development of outdoor spaces has expanded and literally elevated the places in which drinking habits can be indulged. A transition back to vintage cocktails, such as the Bellini, Side Car and Negroni thrives.

Bar goers are becoming more cocktail chic demanding quality spirits, fresh squeezed juices and local ingredients whenever possible. And following in the footsteps of the recent artisanal food revolution, the fine art of mixology is finally getting the props it deserves and consumers are becoming increasingly savvy about taste.

Finding many of Melbourne's bars may require the sleuthing skills of Nancy Drew, but creep down a few laneways, wander into a few hole-in-the-walls and make friends with the locals.

]]> Here are five places to tap your inner lush:

SEAMSTRESS
Looks: Tucked amongst the temptations of whole roasted Peking ducks hanging in windows and adult toy shops, this one-time garment joint screams sweatshop meets speakeasy meets funky Soho loft.

Scene: Young, beautiful and well-heeled bar-goers flock to the top floor cocktail bar of this four-story establishment, where Asian influences are apparent on its modern Cantonese menu.

Drink: Expect obscure spirits and exotic ingredients in your cocktails - like aloe vera and ginger wine - plus a killer wine list.

Go if: You want a fiercely hip, yet unpretentious cocktail scene.

CABINET BAR & BALCONY
Looks: Tucked in Rainbow Alley, the vibe is part cafeteria thanks to large blackboards filled with daily menu items, part Parisian bistro due to astutely placed gold accents.

Scene: Polite journos, politicos and business heavyweights all convene for post-work swill at this off-the-beaten-path laneway bar.

Drink: Go local. They pour nearby Yarra Valley selections as their house wine.

Go if: You don't want to blow the bank - twice daily happy hour and reasonably priced regular drinks makes this retro-chic eatery a must for cost-conscious social butterflies.

RED HUMMINGBIRD
Looks: Unlike most Melbourne bars, this one is easy to find, marked by a red birdcage strung above the entrance. Find a dark-red hued Moroccan lounge on the first floor, as well as a de rigueur rooftop garden bar with lush greenery, Balinese-inspired silk cushions and great skyline views.

Scene: One of city's best kept secrets, this cozy booze boîte is perfect for an intimate spit-swapping session.

Drink: Try the Tart n' Tale - Hendricks Gin muddled with fresh ginger, cucumber and citrus zest finished with a quince rinse.

Go if: You want a low-key, attitude-free night on the town in a conversation-conducive environment.

MADAME BRUSSELS
Looks: Named for one of Melbourne's most famous madams, this self-proclaimed "rather fancy terrace and public house" is kitted with AstroTurf, kitchy lawn furniture and fanciful faux trellises and hedges.

Scene: Girly girls and well-mannered boys ogling the country-club couture outfitted wait staff.
Drink: Rooftop views like this don't come cheap and cocktails can be pricey. Instead order Pimms by the jug, which easily serves eight thirsty people.

Go if: You have a sense of humor. This oh-so fabulous bar is something straight out of Alice in Wonderland with the illustrious Miss Pearls holding court.

NEW GOLD MOUNTAIN
Looks: On the cusp of Chinatown and set over two levels, this cozy bar feels a lot like a clandestine brothel cum Shanghai opium den.

Scene: Couples sucking face in secluded alcoves alongside large groups of party people getting locked and loaded to the backdrop of a killer DJ.

Drink: NGM is best-known for its sours, but it's Cocktail No. 6 that makes me swoon. Tequila, Cointreau, honey, apricot and ginger beer make up the potent libation.

Go if: You want to be treated like a V.I.P. Buy a bottle (mixers included) and NGM will store it indefinitely for future visits. If seating isn't immediately available, they will ring your cell phone when it's ready.

Travel Safety Tips - Protect your Wallet

2011-05-25T07:00:00Z

Traveling abroad raises numerous money issues related to accessing, exchanging, carrying and spending money. It is also helpful to be well informed about safety, especially with money when you are on vacation, studying abroad or even taking a road trip. Our friends at iJET have been kind enough to share some travel safey tips - so, pay close attention!

]]> When traveling in any airport, it is always best if you practice these great security tips,

Conceal your purse in carry-on luggage; this also frees an additional hand and allows you to add another travel bag if needed. Visible purses make you a more likely target of theft.
Keep valuables, including travel papers, such as boarding pass, passport, and identification cards, in a shoulder-strap pouch underneath a jacket or in a money belt, closeable inner pocket or purse that can be carried like a football. This deters pick-pockets.
Separate money on your person, carrying some in a pocket, so a hurried thief might not get all your cash.

Below are some great tips when it comes to spending money while traveling.

Personal checks are usually not accepted abroad.
Traveler's checks are commonly accepted and typically easy to replace if lost or stolen. (Keep check receipts separate from the checks themselves, keep a copy of check numbers at home, and sign checks only in the presence of the recipient.)
Carry at least a small amount of local currency unless you are positive your home currency is accepted in your destination.

Automatic Teller Machines

ATMs are increasingly common worldwide and offer good exchange rates, sometimes the best you will find. Check with the bank that issued the ATM card before leaving home to verify accessibility and learn of fees for machine use.
Major providers of ATM cards list ATM locations on their Web site. Check American Express, MasterCard and Visa

Credit Cards

Credit cards tend to offer excellent exchange rates (calculated when your bill is processed, not at the transaction). Thus, if the U.S. dollar is weakening relative to the currency in your destination, use cash; if the dollar is strengthening, use your credit card.
Many credit card companies charge a 1% fee on all foreign exchange transactions.
Know your card spending limits and avoid exceeding them abroad. Foreign vendors do not take such mistakes lightly and, on several occasions, U.S. travelers have been jailed when inquiries by merchants to the credit card company showed that the customer's credit limit had been exceeded by even a small amount.
Make two lists of your credit card numbers - in a way that only you can decipher - and leave one copy at home and carry a second copy with you, separate from the cards, in case of loss or theft.

Foreign Exchange

To avoid delays after arrival, buy enough foreign currency at home to cover the transportation from the airport, bellhop tips, etc. U.S. banks and airports offer fairly poor exchange rates compared to what you will find in-country, so wait until arrival to exchange more.
Otherwise, carry from USD 50 to USD 100 in U.S. one-dollar and five-dollar bills to pay initial cab fares and porters' tips. But spending U.S. currency is illegal in some countries, including Cuba and several African nations, and U.S. dollars are not accepted by merchants in many other countries.
Learn where you are legally allowed to exchange currency in your destination (you can do this upon arrival). Many countries forbid exchange outside banks and exchange bureaus; in some countries, changing money on the street is acceptable and safe.
Entry/Exit Issues
Ensure that you obey currency import limits. Some countries insist that you buy their currency in-country only. Before departing, learn whether you can re-exchange local currency at the airport and what documentation you need to do so; many countries require receipts from your purchase of the money.

Safe Travels.

Coolest Gadgets to Travel with 2011

2011-05-18T07:00:00Z

There's nothing better than a stress-free vacation, and people have come up with a lot of travel accessories to help. This year, the hottest gadgets on the market are state-of-the-art, with new technological devices that illuminate, translate and navigate our trips.

]]> slideshow provided by Travel and Leisure.

Women on Their Way Celebrate Mom's Nite Out

2011-05-06T16:02:49Z

National Mom's Nite Out is an evening dedicated to celebrating moms across the world. This one night gives women the opportunity to relax, enjoy themselves and meet other moms who also deserve a break.

As proud sponsor of National Mom's Nite Out, Women on Their Way by Wyndham Worldwide opened their doors to mom bloggers throughout the tri-state area as well as their very own moms who work for Wyndham Worldwide.

]]> The event took place in the Ava Lounge at Dream New York hotel in New York City. With an action-packed two hour celebration, Maria Bailey, founder of NMNO, kicked off the party by welcoming all moms and raffling off tons of prizes! Food and drinks flowed while moms kicked back, met some new friends and reconnected with others. Free chair massages were offered compliments of Wyndham Rewards and also there to make the night sparkle was an independent stylist of Stella & Dot.

With mom bloggers like Maria Bailey, host of MomTalkRadio, Kim Orlando, founder of TravelingMom and Carol Cain, writer of the blog, NYCity Mama to name a few, there to share in the festivities, the evening was a huge success!

Plans for next year's celebrations are already in the works... Women on Their Way by Wyndham Worldwide wants to take it across the US to three major cities. More information will be posted to the Web site, Facebook page and Twitter to ensure no one misses out on next year's celebration.

Happy Mother's Day to ALL!

Free Admission to U.S. National Parks

2011-04-06T07:00:00Z

Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar, recently announced that all U.S. National Parks will offer free admission on 17 selected dates throughout the year. Out of 394 national parks, 100 of them charge from as little as a few dollars up to as much as $25 for admission.

In order to encourage visitation, the National Park System will waive admission fees on April 16-24, June 21, September 24, and November 11-13. Most of the dates fall on holiday weekends in order to assure that people from all over the country will have the chance to visit. Many parks will also offer tours, concessions and souvenirs at a discount on these days.

International Travel Tips

2011-03-16T07:00:00Z

Tourists often get a bad reputation - very bad reputation, especially American ones. Over the years, we've acquired an overseas status of being (allegedly) loud, obnoxious, ignorant, rude, and altogether ugly. Sure, sometimes it's tricky to adapt to our surroundings, but really, we're that bad? Isn't there some sort of international travel tips class we could take?

]]>

It isn't necessarily true, but then again sometimes it is, that our traveling culture has developed the "Ugly American" stigma. Compared to the rest of the world, we're pretty well-off, thusly many of us travel abroad at least once a year, we've got conspicuous taste in clothing (exhibit A: the T-shirt), and we speak a language that's recognized by the majority of the world. Sure, we're noticeable, but does that make us ugly? And are there so many of us behaving this way that we deserve such a brutal reputation?

Ed Hewitt, of The Independent Traveler, offers some international travel tips that can help us ditch the stereotype and become better travelers in his article, Embrace the American, Leave the Ugly at Home. He suggests that we do a little research before traveling to ensure that we don't offend, know a few key words in a foreign language, and don't stand out so much that we are targeted by criminals (or worse, are overcharged!). To the rogue world travelers of Women on Their Way, what international travel advice would you give someone leaving the country for the first time? How can they travel smarter and avoid looking like a tourist.

We might not want to stand out, but blending in completely would diminish some of the foreign mystique of our travels. To find the perfect balance, allow yourself to have new experiences and ask questions, just be as polite and accommodating as possible along the way. The more you travel abroad, the more internati9onal travel tips you can bring back to share with your family and friends.