5 Travel Tips You Need to Know

Now that the Summer season is in full swing, and by some accounts nearly over (hey, when you work in fashion/retail/design you're always at least 6 months ahead), I would like to share a few things I learned last weekend after a rather "adventure-filled" weekend trip to Indianapolis which included delayed flights. lost luggage, and comp nights in funky airport hotels.

1.Be Nice to Everyone: 
You'd be surprised the lengths that people will go to to help you out in a situation even if it is your fault that you arrived 40 minutes before your take off time and nearly miss your flight. Don't judge-anyone from the check-in agent to the TSA security guy could be the very person that can keep your dream getaway from turning into a hellish disaster.

2.Carry Socks In Your Carry On:
The airport floor is VERY dirty. I will leave the rest to your imagination.

3. Less Is More:
While I never understood those who opt to show up at the airport looking as if they've just rolled out of bed, I have come to accept that going hard core with heavy hard ware in the form of costume jewelry and belts will only slow you down for the security check. Pack these items in your carry on and glam up before you touch down!

4. Pack Light:
The best way to avoid issues with your luggage taking it's own summer getaway is to take it with you. Sure, it costs a few bucks more but if you arrive in "Sunny Insert Location Here" and your bathing suit and clean clothes are still "in transit" $25 will seem like a drop in the bucket!

5. Never Underestimate The Importance of a Healthy Immune System: Maybe it's the pressure of the cabin, or the fact that planes are the nearly equivalent to a flying subway car and "cleaned" about as well, or the combination of both, but whatever the reason germs and flights seem to go hand in hand. Have you ever gotten a scratchy throat or cold after a flight? Yep, that's them! Before flying boost up; strengthen your immune system with vitamins, minerals or Airborne.

Weekend in Pictures - Baltimore Inner Harbor

To celebrate of my "xxth" birthday this month, take a break from the rigorous demands of course work and retreat from the stress of my 9-5 I was gifted with a road trip to Baltimore's Inner Harbor. The harbor area is one of the regentrified and safer areas of Baltimore. Geared at tourist, sports fans and young professionals the area offers a variety of activities and restaurants that echo the fresh, new spirit of a city that has seen it's share of rough times. 

The highlights of the trip: Rachael's Dowry, and the Andy Warhol exhibit at the Baltimore Museum of Art. Check out the pics after the jump...




STAY 

I had the immense pleasure of staying at Rachael's Dowry. A fully restored,Victorian style, Bed and Breakfast, located near Baltimore's inner harbor. It's just off the beaten path and somewhat lesser known than area mega, brand corporate hotels which only adds to it's sweet, romantic charm.

To "Eataly" And Back

Last week Naeemah and  I went to the grand opening of Eataly in Union Square. Mario Batali & company's uber fresh, quintessential, Italian market. It's actually" the largest Italian  food and wine market place in the world," according to Mariobatali.com  Located on 23rd St. and 5th Ave, the buzz about the opening of this place has been crazy in the food community for months. Eataly is how you eat, drink and shop Italian. When in the market  for Italian fare whether it's  Espresso or fresh, dried pasta they've got it. The market/eatery boasts 6 eat in restaurants and individual take-out counters through out for sweet treats like Gelato, and savory selections like Focaccia.

Travel: Small Town, USA

Road Trip! I’m headed to Onley, Virginia for a family reunion. Exciting right? I hope so. Though I’ve never heard of nor seen this town on a map. I’m looking forward to meeting family, some fun in the sun, and some southern fried delicacies!

So far, I’ve learned that Onley is a town located in Accomack County, on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The populations is less than 500, not that’s a small town! There are beautiful beaches located just north of the Onley featuring waterfront restaurants known for the fresh seafood. That’s all I’ve got for now. I’ll give you the true scoop after my visit.

In the meantime, I've got to shop, pack, clean, and prep for the 2 day extravaganza!

Onley, Virginia