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What to Pack for a South African Safari in Winter

5/31/2016

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So you've booked yourself on a winter safari. Wondering what to wear? No need to invest in a new green and beige wardrobe because you might have everything your need in your closet. 

Here are a few things to consider when packing for a South Africa safari in winter (and remember, winter in South Africa is June-Sept):


  1. Don't wear anything bright and colorful that might distract the animals (or worse - attract them to you!). Stick to neutral or dark colors.
  2. Prioritize comfort. When you aren’t sitting in your Jeep, you’ll be on foot exploring.  
  3. June through September is technically winter in South Africa which may sound chilly, but is rather mild for those of us that hail from colder climates . Typically high temperatures are in the 70s F (20s C) and lows are in the 40s F (6 C).  Given the typical safari schedule of touring at dawn, mid-day and evening one must pack carefully with lots of layers. Despite those temperature ranges, it can often drop to close to freezing in the early morning or after dusk, which feels even colder when riding in a jeep with the top down!
  4. Cover your feet at all times.  
  5. Don’t over-pack, because most safari lodges offer complimentary same-day laundry.

I'm a light packer and safaris are casual. Here are the items that I found most useful.:
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Here is the breakdown of what to bring:

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Holiday Gift Guide for Travelers

12/1/2014

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Happy Cyber Monday! Every year savvy shoppers avoid the mayhem in stores by holiday shopping online. I once enjoyed in-store holiday shopping, admiring the the elaborate decorations and humming along to holiday music. Those days are long gone and now shopping after Thanksgiving is more like an exercise in dodging the crazies - like the sturdy grandma channeling Rob Gronkowski, shoving her way past store patrons while practically punting a small child in order to get to a TV. Or the lady in front of me in line who decided to pay for a cartful of products with DIMES. 

Online shopping after Thanksgiving is the path of least resistance.  
However, the vast selection online can be overwhelming, so I often search for curated gift guides from people with interests similar to the intended gift recipient. Since I've spent a lot of time traveling, I thought I'd list a handful of gift suggestions for those of you with travelers in your lives.   So pour yourself a cup of coffee, curl up on your couch and enjoy shopping knowing you don't have to deal with the dime lady and Granny Gronk!
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1. Go Pro Hero 4 Silver - The one item I wish I'd purchased before my trip around the world. Still kicking myself for not splurging on this one!

2. Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote - I used this bag daily during my trip around the world. It's easy to clean, durable, surprisingly comfortable and it folds into the size of an envelope making it easy to pack. 

3. Globe Trotter Safari Trolley Case - For those of you with REALLY deep pockets, check out this DIVINE suitcase. This is the most beautiful piece of luggage I've ever seen, and at a $1K+ price tag, it'd better be. 

4. LePow Moonstone - Chris' brother gave us this portable charger last year and we use it all the time. Travelers often rely on electronics, so a back up battery is super handy. Plus I love the sleek, simple design of the Moonstone.

5. Perfume or Cosmetic Samplers - Frequent travelers love mini-sized bottles of their favorite fragrances and cosmetics. Try Jo Malone's cologne collection for a nice variety of scents.

6. Travel Book - I love Lonley Planet's 1,000 Ultimate Experiences. Chris and I often revisit the book to dream about our future adventures. 

7. Sholdit Houndstooth Scarf-Purse - I love versatile clothing for travel. This eternity scarf has a hidden pocket for a small phone or wallet and the houndstooth pattern is perfect for fall & winter travel.


8. Push Pin Map - Travelers love to record and re-live where they've been. This simple, neutral push pin map would look great in many homes  and the "Adventure Awaits" title serves as a constant reminder to get back out there and explore.  Plus it makes for a great conversation piece when guests visit. 
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Fall Travel Fashion Finds: Outerwear

10/1/2014

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In much of the world, October's brisk breeze and shrinking days cause the trees to flaunt their finest outerwear. Inspired by autumn's transformation, here are a few travel-friendly outerwear options for the fall:

Michael Kors Removable Liner Trench Coat [Macy's]

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This classic trench is my go-to jacket for fall city travel. The removable wool liner and button-on hood make it highly versatile - a must for unpredictable fall weather. The outer layer resists water and stains, and holds its shape over time. Below is a photo of my coat from my trip to Paris in October 2011. I still use this jacket today! 

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Faux Leather Biker Jacket [Zara] 

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Faux leather works for travel because it's easy to care for and you don't have to worry about ruining real leather when you get caught in the rain.  I like this jacket because it has a detachable fur collar and various pockets.  While these jackets are a little bulky for a carry-on, I managed to travel with one in my backpack for the last four months of my trip around the world.

Anorak Jacket [Target]

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I purchased this coat in gray earlier in the season and LOVE it for travel. It's wind-resistant, lightweight, has a hidden hood, optional cinched waist and the sleeves roll up allowing you to show off your favorite bracelets. So far four random people have stopped me to compliment me on this jacket. The best part? It's under $50! 


Ultra Light Down Quilted Jacket [Uniqlo]

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The puffer jacket look can be polarizing. However, you won't look like the Michelin Man in Uniqlo's ultra-thin lightweight down jacket. These warm jackets are so thin that they can be used in the winter as an inner layer for your overcoat. They are an ideal solution for trip that involves both city and outdoor adventures. Plus, they scrunch up into a small bag making them perfect for travel. 

Smartwool Eternity Scarf  [Athleta]

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Smartwool is beloved by many a traveler for its ability to moderate body temperature. This season, Athleta is carrying an eternity scarf and slouchy hat made of the popular marino wool material. I own both and they are incredibly soft and light. Whether at home or traveling, I will probably live in these items until spring. 

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What to Wear for Whitewater Rafting in the Tropics

8/5/2014

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In my last post, I raved about whitewater rafting in Costa Rica.  Since it was my first time rafting, I wasn't sure what to wear, so I read online reviews, all of which recommended shorts, water shoes and a quick dry top.  With the exception of water shoes, I followed this general recommendation. However, after rafting, I learned a few things that would have been helpful to know beforehand. Had I known then what I know now, I would have packed differently. 

This is what I wore on the boat:
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Pictured Above: 1. Old Navy Quick Dry Top  2.  Nike Pro Sports Bra  3. Lululemon Running Shorts  4. Merrill Barefoot Dash Glove Running Shoes  5.  Puma Ankle Socks  6. Nikon Coolpix Waterproof Camera
What worked: 
  • The quick dry top and Nike sports bra were perfect because neither dragged or stretched while I was swimming or paddling.  I loved the tie at the bottom of the Old Navy top because it allowed me to wear a loose fitting top that stayed in place. 
  • The waterproof camera was money! It was small , lightweight and took pretty good pictures.  I buckled my life vest around the camera strap so it didn't fall off while I was paddling. 

What didn't work: 
  • The Lululemon shorts were adequate but not ideal because they stretched a lot.  Thankfully they had a drawstring so they didn't fall off! Also, since they fit loosely around my legs they rode up on the raft which was uncomfortable.  
  • The shoes and socks were also fine during the trip, but afterwards things got tricky. I thought the shoes would dry quickly, since they are mostly mesh.  However, few things dry quickly in the humid jungle and the next day they were still soaked.  I finally managed to get them pretty dry with the hair dryer in the hotel. Chris wore old sneakers  which he ended up leaving behind because they were still drenched three days later. We also had flip-flops, but they are a bad choice for the raft since they will probably end up in the river.

Knowing what I know now, here  is what I would pack:
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Pictured Above: 1. Old Navy Quick Dry Top  2.  Nike Pro Sports Bra  3. Compression Shorts  4. Keen Water Sandals  5.  Sport Sunglasses with Croakies   6. Nikon Coolpix Waterproof Camera
I'd keep the dry fit top, sports bra and camera per my note above. 

I'd replace the Lululemon running shorts with a pair of compression shorts that won't ride up the leg or threaten to stretch and fall down when swimming (or jumping into the water).  Important: If you have sensitive skin or allergies to rubber, wear longer shorts or sport leggings. You sit on the rubber raft for two hours, so take care not to irritate your skin.  The brand of shorts really depends on the person. I'd probably buy a cheap pair from Old Navy since they are going in the river.

I'd leave behind the sneakers and pack a pair of sturdy water sandals. These could have been useful for the entire trip in Costa Rica as they are sturdy enough for hikes and and canyoning  and quick drying after swimming in rivers and waterfalls.  The covered toe protects your feet from rocks and other sharp items at the bottom of rivers  and lakes.

I didn't wear sunglassses on the raft for two reasons - 1.  It wasn't sunny  2.  I didn't have croakies and I was afraid of losing the glasses.  I wish I'd worn them because the water was constantly splashing in my face and getting into my eyes. I wore contacts so I was regularly closing my eyes or making a funny face trying to adjust the lenses. 

Also, remember to pack waterproof sunscreen, a plastic bag for your wet clothes, and a change of clothes. 

For the guys:
Guys should avoid cotton clothing and go with a quick dry shirt, board shorts/swim trunks and water shoes.   Chris wore a cotton shirt and it stretched out quite a bit.  

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Summer Travel Fashion Finds

6/13/2014

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Summer has almost officially arrived and hopefully everyone is looking forward to vacations and long weekends in the sun. Lately, I've noticed stylish travel-friendly ladies' threads in the stores, on the streets and on my favorite app, Pinterest. Here are a few pieces to consider this summer:

Better Life Bags

I noticed Better Life Bags on Pinterest and loved their story as much as their bags.  Rebecca, the owner, lives in a struggling town near Detroit. She hires local women in an effort to provide jobs in her community. She also gives 10% of monthly income to low income entrepreneurs in developing countries through Kiva.org.  The bags can be customized to match your summer capsule wardrobe and the thick straps are the key to comfort when exploring with a bag all day. Great bags, great cause!
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Soft Joie Clothing

I recently discovered Soft Joie and fell in love with the soft, light-weight material used in their garments. I purchased the Emilia Ikat print maxi dress pictured below which is so incredibly comfortable and soft that I considered sleeping in it. The material is really thin, so it barely takes up space in my carry-on and it keeps me cool on hot days. On the flip side, the thin material isn't ideal for chilly nights so remember to bring a sweater.
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Leopard Print Shorts

I love leopard print any time of year, so when I spotted a pair of linen leopard print shorts in TJ Maxx, I pounced! I like leopard print for travel because it's a fun and dressy neutral that goes with almost any color. I just wore my new shorts during a weekend visit to Nantucket (pictured below) and they were perfect for strolling through the shops and biking to the beach. I can't find the shorts on TJMaxx.com but it looks like J.Crew has a pair for sale if you can't find them at your local store.
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Julie Brown Dresses & Tunics

Much of Julie Brown's clothing is travel-friendly, especially her jersey dresses which are perfect for summer destination weddings. Their Sharon wrap maxi dress (pictured below) can be dressed up or down with the right shoes and jewelry. The material is on the thicker side, resists wrinkles, and is very flattering on most body types. Julie Brown also carries tunics in bold prints that will add a pop of color to your travel wardrobe. Tunics are comfortable, multi-purpose and protect your shoulders and arms from the sun - making them perfect for summer travel.
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The 10 Most Useful Clothing Items in Our Backpacks

2/19/2014

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People often ask me and Chris about our favorite clothes from our 8 month trip around the world.  Since we were each living out of a 55L backpack,  we did our best to make sure every piece was multi-purpose, easy to wash and durable; traits that are hard to balance with style.  Here are our top 10 most useful clothing items from our trip around the world:

1. Merrell Dash Glove Women's Shoes 

These were my only sneakers for the entire trip and they were comfortable, light, flexible and easy to pack. After 8 months of hiking, walking, and running around the world, these Merrell shoes are still in great shape!  Chris originally packed a pair of Saucony running shoes but they quickly developed holes in the mesh so he parted ways with them and purchased a pair of sturdy men's hiking Merrells, which still look brand new today.  (As a side note, the Merrells were the only size 13 shoes he could find in all of Hong Kong, so it worked out well).
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2. Mango Embroidered White Tank

I picked up this tank at Mango in Barcelona and wore it all the time.  I loved it because it was loose fitting (thus it didn't get sweaty when I got sweaty), the white color kept me cool, it was easy to layer, easy to wash, dried quickly, and it didn't really wrinkle. I wore it everywhere, as evidenced by the pictures below. 
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3. Puma Anorak Sport Lifestyle Jacket

I purchased this Puma jacket in Boston years ago. It was perfect for my trip around the world because:
  • It's made of sweatshirt material but still has lots of structure so I could wear it hiking or out to a casual dinner.
  • It has a hood, which kept me warm and the two front pockets were useful for storage and as hand warmers.
  • The drawstring waist is flattering and and the length made it comfortable.  
  • It was easy to wash and light enough that I could squeeze it in my bag or wear many layers underneath. 
  • It wasn't waterproof, so I carried a lightweight shell in my bag that I'd wear over the jacket on rainy days.

I couldn't find the jacket online so I think Puma discontinued this product. Please comment if you find something similar!
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Puma jacket at the beginning of the trip, worn with multiple layers underneath. It was perfect for the chilly morning hike to Machu Picchu.
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Puma jacket at the end of the trip - a little faded and stretched out but overall it's still in decent shape!

4. Urban Outfitters Scarf

A scarf is a travel must.  I used this Urban Outfitters scarf every day.  I washed it regularly, dried it overnight and it never wore out.  Not one hole!  The pattern hid wrinkles and the color matched with most things. Originally, I had brought another colorful eternity scarf on the trip but eventually sent it home. While I love the way eternity scarves look, I don't recommend them if you have limited packing space.  Why?  Eternity scarves are less multi-purpose than a traditional scarf which can be used a shawl, "hood", sarong and even a substitute for a towel on the beach! 
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5. Elastic Tube Maxi Skirt/Dress

I picked up this skirt/dress for $5 at an outdoor market in Cambodia and used it all the time. Since women are not allowed to expose their legs in the temples, the long skirt was perfect because it covered my legs, kept me cool-ish and when I left the temples I could turn it into a short skirt by tying it around my waist. I also used this as a beach cover-up/sarong as well as a beach "towel".  At night, the long skirt even kept the mosquitos off my legs.  No need to buy one of these before your trip - they are usually on sale at most outdoor markets in warm destinations. 
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6. Aqua Print Dress/Tunic

I picked up this dress in a German department store called Karstadt. It was the middle of a very hot summer and I needed a lightweight sundress to stay cool and somewhat stylish.  This dress was perfect. I was so tired of wearing black and white so the colorful tribal print was a nice change of pace. The best part about this dress was that it was a loose-fitting polyester dress. This meant that it was incredibly lightweight, NEVER wrinkled, and dried quickly.  It kept me cool on sweltering days and on chilly days, I'd throw on a pair of leggings, scarf and my bomber jacket for warmth. You can find Aqua dresses at Bloomingdales in the US.
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Sporting the Aqua dress on Rugen Island in Germany
Chris found the following items especially useful:

7. eBags Packing Cubes

These packing cubes were key. We each had 4 slim cubes in our backpacks and it made finding things so easy. We'd usually put warmer weather clothes in separate bags from cooler weather clothes so we'd only have to unpack a couple cubes at each destination. 
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8. ExOfficio Boxer Briefs

Two of these ExOfficio boxer briefs lasted Chris 8 months!  They usually dry in just an hour or two.  Every night he'd wash one pair for following day. 
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9. REI Convertible Pants

I'm not the biggest fan of convertible pants (especially on women), but Chris loved his REI Sahara convertible pants. They immediately won him over because they come in the hard-to-find 36" inseam.  Chris found them incredibly convenient for temperature change or when he had to cover up his legs to go into a religious site.  He also loved the cargo pockets and the super lightweight material dried in a jiffy (unlike the pair of Dockers he brought). One day he left them out to dry on our balcony in Berlin and the shorts blew away, never to be seen again. Luckily we were heading back to the States for a few days shortly thereafter so he was only deprived of his pants for one week. 
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10. Gap Cotton Button Down Plaid Shirt

Chris purchased this shirt a few years ago and it was a staple in his weekend wardrobe prior to the trip.  So he brought it along and wore it frequently, in both hot and cold weather.  The shirt has snaps instead of buttons which makes it easy to take on and off and the loose fitting cotton material kept him cool in the sun. Other benefits were that it rarely wrinkled and dried quickly. 
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Taking a rest after biking through Berlin
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Packed and ready to go

5/2/2013

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We are finally done packing! I probably packed my bag 25 times and had to leave behind so many things I planned on bringing, including my tripod:( But it's finally done.  Here is what I'm brining:

3  pants - Athleta Cargo Pants  & Lole Travel Pants, black leggings
2 shorts 
2 skirts (long & short)
4 tank tops
3 short sleeved shirts
1 cotton long sleeved shirt1 light weight hoodie
1 Smartwool base layerOuterwear: 1 jacket & 1 raincoat shell
Swimwear: 2 bathing suits, 1 light weight button down shirt (cover-up)
Underwear & socks
Accessories: 2 scarves, 2 belts, a few fun earrings
Bags: 1 small bag & 1 fold-up tote
Shoes:  black ballet flats, flip flops, flat (dressier) sandals, sneakers
Misc: Cameras, toiletries, contacts, glasses, sunglasses , tablet, notebook, batteries & chargers

Hmmm..now that I see it all written out, I can probably leave behind a couple tops.  Here we go again...packing attempt # 26!

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    Eva has been traveling for 15+ years, including an 8 month journey around the world.  

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