Having lived in a lot of places in in the U.S. (Nashville TN, Bowling Green KY, Seattle WA, Santa Monica CA, Carmel by the Sea CA, San Francisco CA, Austin TX) and having driven across it twice, I can honestly say Pennsylvania is one of my favourite states and Philadelphia one of my favourite cities for a more reasons than one:

1. It’s very, very clean. The highways, the towns, the cities, the yards, the people. You hardly see litter and hardly see really rundown towns. There’s a lot of pride, which is so nice to see.
2. The people are amazing; sincere, friendly, smart, personable, do their jobs with knowledge and service. So many people, even in the small of small towns, seem to have travelled or have knowledge of places.
3. Scenery. I love stone homes and country landscapes. The seasons, particularly fall, are incredible. Rivers are clean and beautiful. Philadelphia has amazing and historic architecture.
4. History. It all begins here. Everywhere you turn there’s a historic building, monument, moment.
5. Lots of great things to do and most of them are affordable. There is a great art and music scene. Lots of pubs, local restaurants (gluten free eating everywhere), outdoor activities and shopping. It’s all here.
6. Cost of living. Amazing coming from Santa Monica/Los Angeles or New York as a lot of my friends have.
7. Access to great places – an hour by train to New York, a few more to Boston and cheap, quick flights to Europe. Heaven!

Sightseeing:

1. Drive out along the Schuylkill River/76 or take the train from City Center to Chestnut Hill ( on any day but a Sunday). Germantown Avenue is the main street and has really charming shops, cafe’s and historic cobblestone streets. Take a walk down the side streets and around the train station to see historical Mansions from the 1800′s using Chestnut Hill Stone. My favourite florist is there and it runs the restaurant “Cake” which is a really pretty and great experience.

2. Drive/bike/hike along Lincoln Drive and Wissahickon Park. I have done this so often and always think of Walt Whitman poems when I do. Historic Rittenhouse Town (created in the 1600′s) has original buildings you can go in, stables as well as the oldest restaurant, The Valley Green Inn.

3. Drive along Kelly Drive which connects Lincoln Drive to the city center and goes along the river, past the row clubs and comes up behind The Art Museum. This is a beautiful area, rich in history, views, and things to do including an incredible above ground cemetery, Laurel Hill.

4. The Philadelphia Art Museum is worth seeing as is walking down Benjamin Franklin Parkway into city center. So many museums around here including the Franklin Institute Science Museum, the Rodin Museum, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Moore College of Art, and the Please Touch Museum for Children. Plus, it’s just really pretty and reminds me of a cross between London and Paris.

5. Love nature? Bartram’s Garden, the first botanical garden in the US and is beautiful, historical, and well worth a visit. During the warmer months, you can take a boat trip up the river to learn about its conservation.

6. The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. See where independence began.

6. Rittenhouse Square Park in the city center is great for dining, sightseeing, resting and the Farmers Market every Saturday Morning is not to be missed. Lots of fantastic shopping down Walnut (my favourite is Anthropologie which is housed in a 4 story 1800′s mansion with glass ceilings, spiral staircases and in one room , the ceiling has all the saints painted on it. It’s architecturally amazing!).

7. From Rittenhouse Square Park, walk down Spruce street to view beautiful, historic brownstones and churches. You can walk straight down to the river and the beginning of the beautiful Fairmont Park.

Eating:

1. For fancy but organic, the Four Seasons Swan Cafe is absolutely amazing. Sometimes all I get is tea and dessert just to soak in the atmosphere!
2. In 1889 the Reading Railroad built a beautiful terminal that is now the Reading Terminal Market that has amazing and inexpensive eats.
3. Parc is right on Rittenhouse Square and I love it because their French food is incredible, the atmosphere always bustling and the service superb. It’s good to even just stop for a glass of wine int he afternoon.
4. Cafe Luticia is a family run cafe on 23rd and Lombard Street that has the best coffee, amazing brunch and lunch. You can sit outside when weather is good and it’s a nice, easy, 20min walk from Rittenhouse.
5. Rouge has a great tasting menu and wines. Very relaxing, comfortable.

More sites with more information:

• Philly From The Inside Out
• Girls Guide to City Life
• Official Philadelphia Tourism Site

When I first began my travels at 18, I did so with two very old, huge suitcases that were literally falling apart and had an old, small leather handle. Being in the petite side, trying to navigate turnstiles at the tube, running to catch trains, and checking in at the airport with such big, unmanageable cases was a nightmare.

It took me years of trying different types of luggage from backpacks to weekenders to suitcases to find the perfect set. Now, I literally couldn’t imagine leaving home without them.

The first peice of luggage I love and recommend to everyone is the Victorinox Mobilizer NXT 4.0 22″ Expandable Wheeled Upright Suiter ($399). For the past 3 years, this has been my carry on bag on over 300 trips. It has never let me down and still looks brand new despite all the banging it might incur.

Why I love this is because it meets carry on requirements (22″ x 14″ x 9.5″)which means that I can get a couple weeks’ worth of things inside and still be allowed to take it on the plane. This is a life saver to me.

The 80mm inline skate wheels and 3″ aircraft-grade aluminum, comfort grip handle (which locks in various heights to accommodate the small to the tall) on this are top notch. I tried several different handles/wheel combination but this was the most comfortable and sturdy. It handles rough terrain without flinching, never falls over even with other bags stacked (and it does have the Interlok Attach-a-Bag system which easily stores and secures an additional bag on the front). The front pocket is the perfect size for my 15″ laptop and protective sleeve. Made with ballistic nylon and self-healing zippers, the construction is top-notch and relatively light. And the fact that it can expand an additional 2.5″ (or 30% more space) is brilliant (although when extended, it doesn’t fit carry-on requirements).

For some, this might seem on the pricier side but once you buy this, you will never have to buy another suitcase because the construction will literally last a lifetime. If it doesn’t? Don’t worry, there’s a lifetime guarantee.

I picked up an additional bag because I was taking a two month trip and needed more space but didn’t just want to expand the rolling bag and put it under the plane. I always like to have a large carry-on so that I never have to worry of losing things I couldn’t do without (clothes, toiletries, camera/computer gear). So I needed a second bag that would be easy for me to carry along side my rolling bag but also stand up to the wear and tare of being put under the plane (or in a crunch, be a great carry on bag, too). Since I already owned a great wheeling bag, I didn’t want another as pulling two wheelers can often be tricky. I needed something with straps, something sturdy, something with space yet not as large as my wheeler.

I looked at a lot of different brands and was actually leaning towards something on the more fashionable, fun side such as Orla Kiely’s great weekenders. Those bags would be great for once in awhile travel or as a dedicated carry-on for smaller trips. But I needed something that could withstand a lot of travel, hold at least a week’s worth of close and could be a carry on or checked.

Since Orla Kiely and Victorinox were in the same price point I decided to purchase the Victorinox Mobilizer NXT 3.0 Standard Issue 2-Zip Expandable Overnighter ($199) because of all the features and the proven quality. The Overnighter has 3 different ways thanks to a removable, padded shoulder strap, dual haul handles with a unifying leather handle wrap and zip-away padded backpack straps. This feature allows me to easily carry the bag or attach it to my rolling bag which is perfect since there’s nothing worse than trying to juggle luggage whilst running for a flight!

What I also liked about this bag was that it also was expandable by 2.5″ in case I picked up things on the trip (which always happens!). It also had a suiter which I love (the roller also has this but it’s nice to have it in a second bag, too) that stays in its own compartment. It has several other compartments including a felt-line sunglass pocket and key pocket – perfect for carry on! Overall, the weekender is roomy enough to carry a weeks worth of clothes but small enough to not be cumbersome if I just needed something for the weekend.

And I can’t help but love the fact that they both match and I have a go to “travel set” which just makes trip preparing and packing that much easier.

Because I work on the go, having a great laptop bag is important. If I’m travelling with my roller bag, I simply use a sleeve (Victorinox, BuiltNY or MetroLite II Steel Blue laptop case) to protect the computer and then put this inside my roller bag outside pocket. For day trips or business meetings, the Brenthaven ProLite II Case for 15-inch MacBook Pro more than suits my needs.

Most computer bags lack organizational pockets, places for all the chords, space, comfort and durability. This has all of that at an affordable price. The girl in me wanted a more feminine, “pretty” bag but found that most of them weren’t easy to carry when loaded up with gear nor were they durable enough for travel. Brenthaven’s ergonomic handles and padded removable shoulder strap are comfortable even when the bag is fully loaded with everything I need and then some! It also has a special strap which allows me to attach it easily and securely to my rolling bag – another bonus point. Combine that with a lifetime guarantee and I feel like my purchases (computer and luggage) are protected.

These are definitely investment pieces. It might be tempting to buy a cheap suitcase but you end up paying a different kind of price either with a sore shoulder, back, wrinkled clothes, destroyed luggage or lack of room/organization. If price is a concern, buy online and look for online discount coupon codes. I bought both pieces from eBags (since they had a promo for free shipping + 15% off + free returns if I didn’t like the bags) and found discount codes by doing a Google search for “eBags coupon.” You can try this with other etailer’s, too.

If you have an old, ratty suitcase that makes travel hard or a backpack that isn’t so great for your back, consider upgrading your luggage. Make sure you read a lot of reviews, think a lot about how you travel and find one that suits your style and needs perfectly. Only buy once is my motto as is travel happy!

The meeting went well and I had to start thinking about how, a traveller who liked quieter, green spaces with laid back but sophisticated vibes in cities that were walkable, live in a smog, traffic-run, loud and big city like Los Angeles? Lucky for me, my second night was spent in Santa Monica.

Chasing down the red sky on the 10 Westbound, warm air coming through the open windows in November, I felt like I was onto something. Pulling into Santa Monica and seeing that ocean at Sunset almost had me in. But it wasn’t until I pulled up to my hotel for the night, Casa del Mar, did I literally bump shoulders with Tom Hanks who was walking out to get into his Prius, that had me sold.

Over the past five years I’ve maintained a base in Santa Monica because no matter where I go in the world, it’s always nice to come back here and re-discover all the things I’ve fallen in-love with over the years. Things such as a great, active community, award-winning bus service, famous farmers market, bike lanes, the beach, garden colour, high walking score, and it’s sense of eco-awareness. A recent poll showed that 97% of Santa Monica residents were satisfied. Count me among them.

Living here I have a constant flow of visitors who want to escape cold weather or need a little glam or want to see what I love. So here’s a list of my favourite places and things to do locally:

1. I’ve stayed in a lot of hotels in Santa Monica. The Embassy Hotel Apartments has the best location for the money. It’s more of a basic, European 3 star hotel but the prices are the best and the rooms are clean, nicely decorated and perfect for living local. For something more upscale the wonderful Ambrose Hotel is perfect – in walking distance to Whole Foods, a block to Wilshire, about a 30min walk to the beach and on top the hotel is 100% eco-friendly with amazing beds, decor and breakfast from Urth (more to come on that). Staying at Casa del Mar amongst the celeb’s will have you feeling glam, especially if your room overlooks the ocean (mine did and I couldn’t. stop. staring at it). The Viceroy, Huntley Hotel (people love the top floor restaurant, I like the bedding), Hotel Oceana are also all great bets. I’ve had two different rooms at the Fairmont Santa Monica (one in the old part, one in the tower) and it’s a nice hotel but for the money, I’d stay in one of the others above. Same with Hotel Georgia (which has smaller rooms and can be quite loud during tourist season as it overlooks the beach).
2. Montana Avenue. Everyone will tell you to go here and there’s a reason; it has great boutiques, relatively quiet, very pretty and has everything you can need from food to stores. My favourite stores include Shabby Chic, Planet Blue, Le Partie, Footsie, Michael Stars, El Naturalista, Ouidad, Benefit, The Wagging Tail, and Home Inc.. But take your time wandering up and down and if you get hungry, don’t worry there are a lot of great places to eat from inexpensive (Marmalade Cafe & Market) to fancy (Cafe Montana). There’s even a Whole Foods and Starbucks if you need your fix.
3. For eating, my favourite (and weekly hang out) is Cafe Dana on Montana. It feels like a small, intimate European outside bistro and the food is incredible as is the value. My favourite is breakfast, especially the oatmeal – it’s an experience for $6! I also really love Real Food Daily on 6t & Santa Monica has great vegetarian food that even carnivores will love (and their weekend brunch is not to be missed), Buddhas Belly which is organic with lots of gluten free options and A Votre Sante on 26th & San Vicente feels like a traditional, quaint but oh so nice and good European restaurant (with gluten-free options). R&D Kitchen on Montana is a great meeting spot that’s always packed as is the institution Father’s Office (which has the best burgers).
4. For going out at night, I love the lounge at Casa del Mar or sitting poolside at the Viceroy. Shutters on the Beach offers a Champagne tasting every Wednesday for $25 which is great for meeting up with people while relaxing beach side. For something more casual, the outdoor patio at Warszawa on Lincoln and Maccaws on Ocean are fantastic choices.
5. The famous Santa Monica Farmers Market happens every Wednesday and Saturday and is not to be missed. It’s amazing with every kind of local produce you can imagine sold by the farmers who grow them. Not too sure what something is or how to cook it? They’ll be more than happy to tell you. It’s a great place to browse and pick up something for picnicing on the nearby Palisades Park.
6. Urth Caffe is one of my favourite places in the world. Their Spanish Latte, Mild and Iced Green Tea Latte and berry bowl with whipped cream are my staples. I am here all. the. time. For a different coffee experience, try Intelligista on Abbott Kinney
7. The 13 block long Pacific Palisades Park is perfect for strolling if you’re north of Wilshire. South of Wilshire tends to not be so great. The views either way are amazing. I like to walk along it, down ocean Avenue through Rustic Canyon and up through 7th and then walk up the large, beautiful streets north of Montana. Walking through the neighborhood and seeing the huge, beautiful homes with amazing gardens is a great way to spend an afternoon. Or jog up San Vicente like every one else. If you’re feeling up to the challenge, on 4th street just north of San Vicente are the infamous stairs. You’ll hear people panting before you get there. It’s one of the most beautiful, tough and free ways to work out in the city.
8. If you’re a shopper you’ll love it here. You can do a loop walking down Montana avenue, then left on Third, down the infamous promenade and then up Broadway, over then over to Main Street. Fred Segal on 4th & Broadway is a fun albeit sometimes confusing place to shop but has all the top designers (and top prices) and latest fashions. It’s a must stop as is getting an Elixir from the cafe (in the West building). Third Street has a lot of shopping (Anthropologie, Lululemon, Apple, Zaras, H&M, Lush, Levi’s to name a few) but skip eating here (it’s too touristy). If antiques are your think or you love Shabby Chic but not their prices, then go where Rachel Ashwell goes – the Santa Monica Outdoor Market. It’s only held once a month on the last Sunday but it’s worth the $5 admission. Main street is filled with local stores from art to clothes to eco-wares.
9. In need of some pampering? The Burke Williams Spa is fantastic for massages. For a cheaper alternative, try The Massage Place on Montana and 7th.
10. The Santa Monica Public Library is one of the most beautiful library’s I’ve ever been to. Recently built it has an outdoor courtyard, a cafe, meeting rooms and every magazine you can think of. If you need a break from the sun, step inside, read a magazine and sip a latte.
11. Don’t have the time (or the money) to join one of the exclusive Santa Monica beach clubs?  Don’t worry, thanks to volunteers, donations from high-profile locals and California taxpayers, there’s a gorgeous new and free (except for the pool) beach house for everyone. Opening in May 2009, the Annenberg Community Beach House is a community spot offering tours, courts, games, refreshments, halls and swimming right on the beach. Splash in the pool while looking at the ocean, tour Marion Davies house (free) or borrow equipment that you didn’t bring on the plane (like volleyballs, tennis rackets and umbrellas).
12. As a local, I’ve only been to the Santa Monica Pier twice, and that’s once more than most locals. It’s a bonafide tourist trap and I’d suggest you look at the solar-paneled Ferris Wheel from the Palisades Park than go down and visit. But if you must go, be on guard, then hit the beach and walk or bike (rentals available) down to Venice or up to the Beach house.
13. And though Venice isn’t Santa Monica, its worth visiting Main street which runs through both cities and then bike, walk or drive up Abbott Kinney for great dining, local shops, great coffee bars (like the Intelligentsia Coffee) and one of my favourite little home shops, Tumbleweed and Dandilion. And of course, the Venice Canals are always worth a walk through.
14. And lastly, one of my all time favourite things in Santa Monica is the Aero Theatre on Montana. In operation since 1933 it now showcases a different movie each night, from classics to special premieres and screenings. I have met so many amazing directors and actors here because there’s a lot of Q&A’s with the movies. It’s just an amazing, very much locally supported theatre. Besides, what is a trip to Santa Monica without a movie star experience? Even if it’s just on the big screen.

Armed with my camera and FlipCam, I attempted to do some video and take more personal shots and what was created out of that was a short, whirlwind video of it all.

Europe Shananigans from alex beauchamp on Vimeo.

In December 2007 I took on a six-month vacation rental in the charming town, Carmel by the Sea California.  Although it began in the early 1900′s as an escape for San Francisco artist is sees more tourists visiting high-priced galleries instead. But there’s a reason why this small sea-side town keeps people coming – it’s accessible, it’s beautiful and it’s more than quirky.

Here are some of the things that make Carmel by the Sea what it is:

• There are no street addresses. That’s right – no street addresses. Instead of being identified by government issued numbers, homes are identified either by their cottage name (which owners can choose) or by description (SW Corner of San Carlos and 5th, green house three down with the big red door). Explaining this to UPS or places that do not accept P.O. Box addresses can be challenging. It does, however, encourage one to know their streets, neighbours, houses and surroundings so they can explain how to get around town.
• There are no street lights. At all. Which means it’s very, very dark, especially in winter. Not a little shady but pitch black. This affords the glory of seeing the stars and when the full moon is out, the town glows. But walking when dark can be daunting – so carry a flashlight.
• If you’re 18 or under, there is a 10PM curfew. When I told a friend he replied in cheek, “It’s to keep those pesky kids of people’s lawns!” But, there are no lawns here – another law. It’s all Xerophytic Landscaping; natural landscaping that doesn’t require watering (although cactus and any other plants that could cause physical harm are highly discouraged!). It also helps to keep the town feeling like a forest and full of magic.
• Except for Ocean Ave and a couple of streets around it which have shops, there are no sidewalks. Again to add to the forest feel (Carmel was the first city in California to employ a full-time Forrester) but also a reason why if you were certain high heels, you’ll need a permit! The city requires this because the uneven roads can be dangerous in towering shoes and they don’t want the liability.
• It is very, very quiet. Living four blocks from the beach, I can still hear the waves crashing against the shore. Coming from Los Angeles, it took me awhile to realise it wasn’t the highway.
• The town is only one square mile in size with 1 dog for every 3 humans. But you’ll never be bothered by dogs or their business – it’s very clean. Most people here believe that those who take their dogs out will be responsible (and they are). So much so that lots of restaurants (including gourmet) not only allow dogs, but have dogs menus.
• Almost half the population is single but most visitors are couples. It’s about a 50/50 split between men and women although the average age is 54.
• The city began as one of America’s first artist colonies (most of whom were women) and the names of famous artists in residence is long. However, most of those who founded the city couldn’t afford to live here today – the median home price is $1.8 million. If you include 17 Mile Drive in that, the median home price goes up to$8.4!
• The Forest Theatre still provides outside live theatre, however, because rent is so high the original movie theatre is no longer in operation. The only place to see movies now is in one of the local banks. There’s a Plasma TV with seats. However, they only play Doris Day or Clint Eastwood movies.
• It doesn’t matter what night it is, the town will most likely be quiet and closed after 6PM. I’ve been asked a lot by tourists “what’s going on tonight?” If it’s Tuesday it’s locals night at the Cypress Hotel. Other than that don’t expect much. People come for the scenery not the scene.

Despite the increase of gas prices, road trips continue to be popular. They have a certain kind of romance to them which is perhaps why important details and realistic plans are often overlooked; making the trip go from dreamy to nightmare in only two days on the road. How many people do you know, after having come back from a car trip, have said that next time – they’ll fly!

However, if you prepare for the trip and do a few modifications while on the road, I promise you a successful trip ahead. And trust me – I’ve learned from experience what does and does not work after having driven across Europe and America several times. And in preparing for my upcoming three week drive across Canada, I’m going to take my own advice!

Car safety is one of the biggest issues and often the most overlooked. If you do not know how to change a tire, hook up jumper cables or fix your over-heated engine with a paper clip and rock a la McGuiver, then do yourself a favour and get AAA or CAA or any equivalent in the country in which you’re driving. You want to have their numbers handy in case you have a problem. No one likes to be on the side of the road in extreme heat or rain, wondering what to do. Just make sure your cell phone is charged so you can call or that you have a phone card if you have to use a pay phone. And if your car does break down, make sure you have flares or a flash light (at night) so you can let other drivers know you need help.

But to avoid a mid-trip meltdown, get your car serviced ahead. Make sure your tires have traction and air (and keep checking the air on the trip. Heat and elevation changes can change tire pressure). Make sure your breaks work, you have oil, your wiper blades will do the job and your AC (if you’re travelling in summer) isn’t about to go on the blitz. Think of what you’re asking your car to do – take you somewhere safely and comfortably – so make sure you treat it right before you go.

Then think of gear for your car. For me a must have is a Contour Lumbar Cushion by Relax The Back for my back. I could not believe how much this helped on a three day drive from Seattle to Los Angeles; keeping fatigue and muscle soreness at bay. . You can find them for as little as $35 but it’s a great investment you’ll have well beyond your trip. I also carry a travel blanket in the car for napping or keeping myself warm if my travel partner gets a little AC crazy. A set of comfortable nightshades is perfect for afternoon naps as is ear plugs which can help block out road noise or your driving partners ACDC. For those times when you have to do a lot of driving, anything you can do to make napping easier is great. So bring a real pillow if possible or a neck rest if space is an issue. Make sure you also have a bag for garbage, a travel towel for clean ups and an organiser for your maps and receipts. There’s nothing worse than driving around aimlessly looking for a place after 7 hours of driving. Keeping things organised as much as possible in the car will save you hassle throughout the day.

Food is another major issue and one that isn’t really talked about. Road trip are fun? Right? So bring out the Cheesey’s, the chocolate bars, the fast food along the highway! Right? Wrong! Bad eating habits will contribute to fatigue, irritability and other issues we just won’t mention here. Eating junk and fast food can also cost a lot in money and time – how much time have you wasted in a crappy diner when you could have been picnicking in some beautiful park? I try to limit sugary foods so instead of eating sugar all day long, I choose to enjoy the cake in the afternoon or that world famous ice cream mid-day. This does wonders for energy, for your whole well being and for irritability. There’s nothing worse than sitting in a car for 5 hours with a bulbous belly and nothing to relieve it but antacids and scary rest stops. So don’t take another trip down that road. You want to enjoy your trip? Then change how you eat on it.

I take two coolers; one for the trunk and a smaller collapsible one for the front. To keep the coolers cool on the road I buy a box of 1 gallon Ziploc bags. Each morning I stop as a gas station, buy a bag of ice for $1 and fill up a couple of the Ziploc bags. This keeps the food in the cooler, cool, without having water all over. I just keep re-filling the same Ziplocs for the trip and put other food in the other Ziplocs. Cheap, easy, effective.

In the cooler in the trunk I put food I like; bread, meat, cheeses, some fruit, drinks. In the smaller cooler in the front I put things in there I need easy access to while driving such as a couple of drinks, maybe some nuts or energy bars such as the Larabars. But the most important thing is, all the food I buy is organic and natural – nothing filled with chemicals or that’s junk. It sounds easier and cheaper to just buy junk food but you’ll pay a price.

The difference in picnicking, buying fruit at fruit stands and eating wholesome food has been amazing. It has kept me alert, happy, and energised. It’s allowed me to sit and eat alongside some of the most beautiful rivers instead of a diner. I can keep an eye on money so much easier this way instead of overspending on fast food. I also don’t get that 5′oclock cranky pain anymore – you know when you’ve been driving, you’re hungry but you can’t find a place to eat? It’s right there, in your trunk.

Actually, I do eat breakfast in a restaurant to fuel me for the rest of the day and so I can have a chance to wake up. But I promise you the difference in packing a good cooler will be noticeable – take it from the take-out queen herself. If I can do this and love it – anyone can!

Another tip is for water. I have an REI Canister which fits perfectly into my cars cup holder and has a great spout instead of those wide brim openings. I buy a couple of gallon bottles of water which I keep in the trunk and fill up my canister as needed. And I drink a lot of water. Staying hydrated keeps you alert and full (which helps stave off munchies). If you rely too much on caffeinated drinks you’ll suffer the caffeine crashes and you’ll actually de-hydrate yourself more. Have a coffee in the morning but try to avoid it in the afternoon. Opt instead for a Green Tea Ice Tea from Starbucks (60 calories, refreshing and gives you a little perk) or try a Blue Energy Drink which has vitamins and a bolt of energy without the crash afterwards. But make sure you have lots and lots of water. Which brings me to…

Stop at every rest stop. You might think you don’t need to or it’ll waste time but it will actually save you time. It’ll allow you to stretch your body, rest your eyes, maybe see something interesting and it also gives you a chance to do something with all that water you’ll be drinking.

Sometimes one just wants to hit the open road – driving as much as they can without trying to make it to a certain hotel. This is fine but have an idea of your route and research hotels in that area before you go. If you have certain needs (like Internet, handicap rooms, pool), you’ll appreciate having looked online at hotels that have those features so you don’t have to keep going into hotels asking the same questions over and over. That way you won’t have to try to figure out where to stay after a day of driving. But if you’re travelling in a popular area during high season, I’d recommend reservations. In my drive across Canada, I have two nights in the Prairies in which I haven’t booked anything because I’m not sure how much driving I’ll do during the day. But I have some hotels printed out along the way so I know where to go when I do stop. For last minute reservations,
Last Minute Travel offers some great deals.

Packing right is also going to be top priority. Nothing worse than having your luggage stuffed in the very back of the trunk when you’re unloading at night. Make sure you have easy access to the things you need. On certain trips I use a big straw bag that has just my essentials in it (toiletries and night gown) which I can easily carry in and out of the hotel. During the morning I change out clothes into the bag. This way the big suitcase can remain in the back but I have access to what I need every night. If you have toys and gear you’re bringing, consider some trunk organisers which will help keep things in order.

I also travel with some workout gear despite the fact when, at home, I do not work out. But if you’re spending most of your time sitting and eating this will affect you both physically and mentally – and not in a good way. A little exercise in the form of walking around town, jumping jacks at the rest stop, some Yoga in the evening (I bring my own 20-minute DVD that helps me unwind and stretch) or some resistance straps that require no set-up and pack easily will keep you fit and keep you going. If you have access to a pool or a gym at night, I suggest using it – even for just ten minutes.

And lastly, the most important thing to bring? A fun attitude. They’ll be boring moments in the car, there will be times when you might get on your partners nerves or the kids will scream. But if you prepare, 99% of the trip will be amazing. Get off the major roads, stop at historic markers and view points, try to relax and see what you can and drink that water.

Road trips are the best ways to really see the local areas and if you plan them right, you’ll enjoy what you see. And no, you won’t want to fly next time.

With so much talk about travel this week I thought I’d share my favourite places that I’ve stayed. Some of my favourite chains include the Kimpton Hotels and Four Seasons (both of which are very dog friendly and have great loyalty programs). And I’m also liking Westin’s – anything with a Heavenly Bed has my vote!

Chateau du Sureau: Perhaps one of my favourites, this privately created and run chateau sits in an unassuming town just outside of Yosemite National Park in California. Upon arrival you are greeted by a personal butler and have run of the chateau and grounds (with just a handful of other guests). The personal service is unparalleled, the food absolutely amazing and the rooms? Hand picked antiques from around the world by the very hospitable proprietess (whose rags to riches story is quite remarkable). The spa is the place to be pampered but the pool is more economical. Barbara Streisand rented the place out for her honeymoon. And just a side note, I have a severe food allergy and, after accidentally getting sick on several things a few days before, was really scared to eat anything from the small town. I found a “Gluten Free” frozen entree that I bought and brought back to the Chateau. I timidly asked them if they’d heat it up. Not only did they “Of course!” but they set the closed dining room up {with silk linens, fine china and silver} just for me and my frozen $2 dinner.

Four Seasons Henri V Paris: I wrote about my experience a few months back and it was that experience that has made this hotel one of my favourites and the one I return to time and time again when in Paris. There were fresh tulips in the room and desserts laid out upon my arrival. I had room service breakfast (since I had to leave at 6AM) and it arrived on silk linens and fine china. And the bathroom? Oh what a bath experience I had thanks to a “Bath Butler!”

Tiffany’s: A Sweet Hotel – Copenhagen: Copenhagen is expensive so I was surprised to discover an affordable hotel that seemed to have quite a few amenities and be well located. I was even more surprised to discover that it really is a sweet hotel! The room I had was rather large, had a fridge and had breakfast delivered to it daily. It was quiet, very clean and had the most helpful staff. And yes, it was perfectly located for walking all over Copenhagen!

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel: I’ve stayed here on several occasions but my favourite room is the one that faces the golf course, has a fireplace and a rounded ceiling (I think it ends in 84 or 74). The spa is the best that I’ve ever been to and is actually affordable if you do just a day pass. There’s an old world glamour feeling to this hotel and it’s in easy walking distance to most things in the town.

Westin Grand Vancouver – Do you want to know what it feels like to live in Vancouver? Then stay here but try staying on one of the top two floors where you get private service, unlimited local phone, internet and food service. I loved the golden room with the simple pine furniture. It was laid out like a new condo downtown and had 180 views of the city (with floor to ceiling windows!) A small fridge, a living room, a desk area, large marble bath and a separate bedroom made it feel like I was coming home each night of my 5 night stay here. And when a rainstorm hit I had the best view. Also perfectly located for walking about the city.

Wedgewood Hotel, Vancouver: I had a suite which held the coziest couch I’ve ever been on, the most indulgent bed and the best bathtub ever. And one of the biggest balconies for that matter. You can tell that this is owned and run by a woman because the details are amazing at every turn. The Bacchus Restaurant is one of my favourite places for either brunch or afternoon tea. Read my full review on my travel site.

Ritz Carlton San Francisco – I usually stay Club Level with the Ritz properties and while they’re always nice, they weren’t as nice as this. This hotel just screams old world glamour from the location on top of the hill to their gorgeous suites complete with rose petal baths. What was a mystery to me, however, was how everyone seemed to know my name. Whenever I walked in or out of the hotel the doorman would greet me by name – even if I’d never seen him before! That’s either creepy or very impressive!

Hotel Triton San Francisco: I love the Eco-Friendly rooms (even though they are incredibly tiny!), the happy hour and how each guest gets a goldfish. You can read my official review on my travel site.

Willows Lodge Hotel Seattle WA: Everyone knows it rains – a lot – in Seattle. It’s cold, dark and grey. However, this hotel makes you want it to be like that because the inside is made for cosying up, relaxing, and listening to the rainfall. With fireplaces in every room, large sinker tubs, amazing stereo systems low lighting, balcony and Northwest colour scheme, this hotel is perfect for a getaway. The spa? Amazing. The restaurant? Even better (they have their own herb farm on hand!)

le Pigeonnier in Isle sur la Sorgue Provence: So incredibly charming (and well located) is this place that when I go back to Provence, this is where I go. The gite is impeccably kept, extremely comfortable and very private. It’s like having your own little apartment in Provence. But what is better is the breakfast that Corinne brings to you each morning; so many croissants, muffins and yoghurt. And the owners are very hospitable which makes this stay not only a good value, but a good experience.

I’ve always been a believer that the best gift is the gift of travel. With my birthday on the 17th of February and my mothers on the 15th, I decided that the best gift to us both would be to take us home to Denmark.

For one week we travelled around the country by car and train, visiting old romping grounds, seeing new sites, spending time with family and even taking part in a few local festivities.

If a photo is worth a thousand words, here in about a million of them is how much I loved going back to Denmark.

I’m a huge believer in not buying trinket souvenirs for a couple of reasons; first, they hardly ever support the local economy and second, you hardly ever use them (when was the last time you used that plastic playing card set turned keychain?). But I do believe in bringing things home from your travels; living souvenirs.

Danes love their candles; they burn everywhere from public sidewalks to windowsills. To remind me of my recent trip to Denmark and incorporate the calm and beauty they provide, I bought two different candle holders from two of Denmark’s best known designers – Georg Jensen (stainless steal tea light holders) and Royal Copenhagen ( Mega Tea light Porcelain holder). I bought them from the boutiques instead of a department store or design house; there’s something special about doing it that way, especially since they wrap it up for you so lovely (a little present to unwrap when home. Love that!). When I burn candles in them, I’ll think of my trip.

I also purchased some tea bits from Bodum, wonderful Italian stainless teaspoons from a little home store in Copenhagen, a jacket from H&M (ok, not Danish but close!) and sweater dress. In Ribe, I stepped into a little shop that sold nothing but things from Scandinavian artists and I happened to fall in-love with a little glass girl made by Krebs Keramik. The reason? I draw stick figures and this is exactly how I draw myself! My mother ended up purchasing this for me as my birthday gift so now when I look at the lovely glass girl, I’ll think several happy thoughts.

There are sheets, duvets, pillows and some linens to come so when I fall asleep at night I can dream about when I return (hopefully to live full-time). It might seem expensive to buy these things overseas but there’s a value – great living memories instead of useless junk lying about.

Then there are just ideas I bring home, like the heart pictured above which is from my grandfather’s family plot near Skidby. They’re created to protect the little flowers from the harsh winter winds but created to be beautiful as well as useful. There were other ideas from tulips to candles that I took pictures of to recreate at home. These are truly the living memories.

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