KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

It makes common sense to check the climate and weather of your destination before you take off on your trip. Most of us do this regularly but there are times when we just assume what the temperature will be. Several years back I took a trip to Key West, Florida in the middle of January. I thought all I would need would be a couple of bathing suits, a few pairs of shorts and tops, sneakers, socks, underware and a hat. Wow, was I ever wrong. The thermometer registered 41 degrees as I got off the plane. I was freezing and needed a jacket or sweatshirt pronto. What a surprise it was to me to find out that the stores didn't stock these items in Key West. I don't make that mistake anymore. I go online to the weather channel and regardless of the forecast in the tropics, I bring a light weight sweater and poncho or a reversible jacket.

ROLL, FOLD OR BUNDLE?

I am often asked if I roll clothes when I pack. My answer is "seldom." That is because rolling often causes more creasing then laying things out flat or bundling. Bundling when packing refers to laying clothes on top of one another and then folding them over, similar to wrapping a gift. It is my preferred method of packing. I rarely roll unless it is for pairs of socks that I place within the cups of certain bras and swimsuits to maintain their shape. The other socks that I pack I lay out flat. Laying clothes out flat and or bundling are the most efficient and best uses of my suitcase space.

RED ROCK CANYON, NEVADA

Driving just about 20 minutes west of Las Vegas one finds themselves in beautiful Red Rock Canyon. This spectacular desert area is dominated by majestic red sandstone and grey limestone cliffs and mountains. The almost silent landscape seems in direct contrast to the craziness of the Las Vegas strip. It is well worth the trip though. Make the first stop The Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center. It is open daily from 8AM to 4:30PM and costs $7.00 a car load. Besides the educational center, desert gardens, shop and restrooms one is given entrance to the 13 mile scenic loop drive. This drive is not to be missed.

THE NEW YORK TIMES TRAVEL SHOW

I attended the New York Times Travel Show today at the Javits Center in NYC. A leading show for travel agents and other travel professionals, it is also open to the public this Saturday and Sunday Feb. 26 and 27th. The hours are 10 to 6 PM Saturday and 10 to 4 PM Sunday. Its like taking a walking tour of the world with seminars from some of the industry leaders like Rick Steves and Arthur and Pauline Frommer. Cultural performances and hands on projects for the kids round out the event. The cost is $15 per person and is free for anyone 18 and under. 

LEAVE YOUR GOOD JEWELRY AT HOME

When I am asked about traveling with good or expensive jewelry, I always respond with, "Don't." It is never worth the risk for me to take valuable jewelry on a trip. That is the time to use costume pieces which are so much in vogue these days. There is so much out there for $20.00 or less. Many cruise ships have shops onboard that specialize in coordinated sets of necklaces and earrings or bracelets for only ten dollars. They are affordable, fun and I've never heard of a tear shed, after a piece was lost! If you must travel with good jewelry, remember to document and insure it, and keep it in the hotel or cruise ship safe when you are not wearing it.

MY TOP TEN FAVORITE US CITIES TO VISIT

I love traveling around the US. Each of my favorite cities has its own character and in some cases, a soul. Here they are. Washington DC, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Tucson, Savannah, Boston, Seattle, Las Vegas and New Orleans.

GREAT TRAVEL ITEMS

When going on a trip or just restocking my day bag or pocketbook, I always include a tissue pack, antibacterial spray or wipes and a stain remover pen. These items are standards for the savvy traveler. One never knows when a public restroom will be out of toilet paper, or in some cases, if the water at the sink flows freely. If you are like me. stains miraculously appear on clothes. The Tide To Go stick has worked wonders for me and even removed blueberry stains on a favorite shirt.

PACK LIGHT SOCKS

When it comes to packing, I am always on the lookout for light weight products that would work for me. Rite Aid sells Phillip Edwards socks for only 99 cents. These socks are made of 97% polyester and 3% spandex. They are light, thin, and come plain or whimsical in design. Because  of the cost, I don"t expect them to last a long time, but they are perfect for packing and I love them. For more pack light ideas check out www.mimipackslight.com

WASHINGTON DC

Washington DC is my favorite US city to visit. It is a wonderful destination for families too. Packing requirements are simple, as most places accept casual attire. I usually pack a pair of jeans, black slacks and comfortable black shoes along with 4 tops, a neutral colored sweater, scarf and gloves.(Depending on the weather) Wearing casual and very comfortable pants, sneakers, top and pullover on my first travel day of a long weekend, assures enough clothing for almost any situation. Since I do a lot of walking in DC and I mean a lot, it is very important for me to have shoes that fit well and can withstand the time I put into strolling to, fro and around the museums and monuments I visit. The museums at the Smithsonian are free, providing a very economical bonus to the thrifty traveler. That makes the city perfect for families too. Daily and weekly passes are available for the metro, hotel prices are down on the weekends and the educational and cultural opportunities, unsurpassed by any other US city.

PACKING PANIC!

Often, even the most seasoned travelers will fall prey to what I call

“PANIC PACKING.” This usually occurs the night before or morning

of a trip.  It is when reason takes off before the traveler and although

the suitcase has been packed, repacked ,and the list checked, all of a

sudden the traveler feels they may need just a few extra items. Why not

put in three more sweaters just in case, and oh yes, two extra pairs of

slacks, and shoes to match and maybe even .................. Well, you get

the point, one bag becomes two bags or more.  AVOID THIS by 

following my “Pack-Light” process. Check it out at www.mimipackslight.com

HOW I FIND A FLIGHT

When I need to book a flight, the first thing I do is head to the computer and type in www.sidestep.com. Sidestep.com is a travel search company that uses over 200 different websites to help me find a great price for my flight. There are other sites like kayak.com which also offer good deals but if I find an acceptable one with sidestep I usually stop there. I try to be flexible with my travel days knowing that the best prices for domestic flights can usually be found on Wednesdays. Tuesday and Saturdays often offer good buys where as Fridays and Sundays are typically the most expensive. The first flight of the day is often the best deal so keep that in mind when you go to book. Bon Voyage!

BANK AMERICA CUSTOMERS GET FREEBIES TO MUSEUMS!

If you are planning a trip in the US and you are a Bank America credit or debit card customer, then it is a good idea to check Bank America's MOU program. MOU stands for museums on us. It is a partnership program that grants free admission to card holders on the first free weekend of every month. The cultural institutions, about 150 in all, include art museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston as well as The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. For a little history check out the National World War Museum at Liberty Memorial in Kansas City MO or the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque, NM. For children, you might try, the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia or the Bronx Zoo in NYC. How about the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville for a little foot tapping? Regardless of the cultural institutions that you like, Bank America's MOU program is worth looking into.

SALLY BEAUTY STORES HELP WITH PACKING LIGHT

When I look for packing light beauty supplies like nail polish, eye shadow and liners,I usually stop by a local Sally Beauty store. Loaded with all sorts of economical and tiny sizes, Sally's offers a wide selection for the traveler to choose from. I have used the 99 cents Sally Girl nail polish for years now. Even though the size is small, there is enough for two manicures, one pedicure and plenty of touch ups in the tiny bottle! I also like the foundation  rice paper for quick nose powdering. It takes up little space and is such a convenience. 

SMARTPHONES MAKE PACKING LIGHT EASIER

In the past, I took a lot of gadgets on a trip. I would pack a cell phone, camera, travel alarm, CD disc player or walkman, mini tape recorder, notebook and calculator, just to name a few. Now a smart phone, in my case, an iPhone, takes care of it all. What a convenience it is to have so much handled by one device. So if you are serious about packing lighter and you haven't taken the leap yet, I seriously suggest  you look into a smartphone when you are eligible for a cell phone upgrade. If you are part of the very few who do not own a cell phone, then skip the basic models and go directly to the all inclusive phones. You will be glad you did.

EMERGENCY ROADSIDE KITS

If you are hitting the road in your car, there is nothing like the security one feels with a Travel Pro Justincase emergency road kit. (shown above) Loaded with goodies, Justincase comes with 66 pieces of emergency essentials that your car should never be without. From the trusty standards like booster cables, tire sealant, flashlight, batteries and a first aid kit, Travel Pro has put in gloves and a poncho too. Detailed instructions are also included and since I have never had to jump start my car, I know I will appreciate the info. if it is ever needed. The bag and its contents are light weight and well organized and it takes up very little room in the trunk. I keep one in my car at all times.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

SPIRIT AIRLINES UNDER THE SEAT BAG DIMENSIONS

Spirit Airlines has set the ultimate challenge for me (so far): no fee for a personal item that fits under the seat. For an airline that charges for seats, checked luggage, overhead carry-ons and virtually everything else, including water, this may be their last freebie. For me it is much, much more. It has taken me years of scaling back on my packing list just to get two weeks' worth of cruise wear, all into a carry-on bag that fits into the standard overhead bin for most US airlines. Next I asked myself if this could be done in a bag that fits Spirit's Personal Item dimensions of 16"x14"x12". Well, I put it to the test for a one-week cruise with three outfit changes per day, and it worked. Go to mimipackslight.com to see what I packed!  

WRIST WALLETS

One of the benefits of my passion for travel is that my friends know the best gifts for my birthday; are always the ones related to travel. Besides beautiful luggage from Travelpro, a Buxton phone and camera pouch, matching makeup and toiletry bags, on my last "Big Day," I received a Banjees wrist wallet from my friend Alli. If you are not inclined to wear a money belt around your waist, a wrist wallet is a good compromise. The Banjees has a small security zipper and one size fits all, makes it perfect for practically anyone who feels the need for added safety. I keep a personal ID card, some cash, a copy of my health insurance card and a credit card in mine. For women, who often are in need of pockets, the wrist wallet provides a handy place for those important items. As an added bonus, the reversible Banjees wrist wallet, is made of a soft fleece-like material that is black on one side and tan on the other.

MARCEL DUCHAMP PACKED LIGHT!

The French avant-garde artist Marcel Duchamp was known for packing very light when he took a weekend trip. He never took a suitcase, but he did take two shirts, one worn on top of the other (he liked to layer!) and a toothbrush which he stuck in the pocket of his jacket.

THE PIER SHOPS AT CAESARS IN ATLANTIC CITY

When in Atlantic City be sure to stop by The Pier Shops at Caesar's. Located in a beautiful mall in what used to be an old entertainment pier, The Pier Shops include approximately 80 retail stores and restaurants. AC's Apple Store finds its home here as well as many high-end shops like Gucci and Tiffany & Co. Along the southern side of the building, on the top floor, one can find a brief moment of relaxation as one steps onto the sandy interior "beach" and relax in an Adirondack chair. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide a beautiful view of the ocean and boardwalk. Every hour there is a spectacular light show at the rear of the mall. It can be viewed from all three floors and is not to be missed. There isn't a charge for the show, and it is always a big hit for children.

ATLANTIC CITY AT NIGHT, SPECTACULAR!

Flying into Atlantic City on a clear night is spectacular. Our pilot took us north wrapping around AC's peninsula with breathtaking views of the casinos. Harrahs, with its changing colors and displays, was exceptional.

LUGGAGE SCALES

With many airlines charging for checked luggage, you might want to invest in a luggage scale. In the past I have used a regular bathroom scale to weigh my packed bag. Since packlight people don't normally travel with their bathroom scales in tow, the portable scales are a convenient option. The Travelon Ergonomic Digital luggage scale works very well. The only flaw is that the product itself adds extra weight. Personally, I find it easy to use but don't take it on trips. There are several varieties on the market. Go to your favorite travel store and ask for a demonstration. 

PACK BINOCULARS!

If you are short on time while you are visiting a popular travel destination, ask the locals what they would do if they had only a few hours in their area. You might be surprised by what they come up with. During our last trip to Disney World, we found ourselves in such a situation. We asked a pizza delivery man and the front-desk clerk at our hotel for their ideas. They gave us the same suggestion that my son made, "lunch at Sanaa." (Thanks, James!) The Sanaa Restaurant is located at the Animal Kingdom Lodge. It does not require a ticket to Disney World, but reservations are highly recommended. Try to get a window table because the views are spectacular. Overlooking an African savannah-like setting, the wild animals roaming there often come up to the restaurant windows for a peek! During our lunch we saw zebras, giraffes, an ostrich, along with a variety of other exotic birds. Don't forget to bring your binoculars!

*Special note to vegetarians and vegans: Sanaa has separate menus for both. The food was excellent.

MAKEUP KITS

Makeup kits provide a wonderful way for the female traveler to scale back on toiletries.  Unfortunately they are not always obtainable. Most cruise ships carry them and they are usually available at department stores during the Christmas holidays.  I now use my Clinique kit everyday.  It comes with 5 lipsticks, 4 eye shadows, black mascara, blush and powder. With a small size of my favorite liquid foundation (3 oz or less), eye liner and makeup remover pads, I’m ready to go.  Lancome makes a good kit, too.  I find their lipstick a little on the weak side but they include an eye pencil.  Many of the major makeup companies have these wonderful travel packs so check them out at your favorite department stores or online. Amazon.com lists the Shany Deluxe Makeup Kit for $25.00 with favorable reviews. Regardless of where you find them, makeup kits are well worth it.   

PACK A HAT

When packing light you don't want to forget to pack a hat. Protecting your head and face from the elements has become a major health and beauty precaution today. My mother packs about eight or nine hats when she travels, but that's another issue all together. She really could get away with one hat, especially if that hat happens to be a reversible one like the one above (the opposite side is black). With a couple of scarfs or ribbons, a few silk flowers and some safety pins, she could have a variety of different looks. If you happen to choose a hat that could get smashed in your suitcase, don't pack it, wear it.  That's what it is meant for anyway!

SHOES ARE ALWAYS A PACKING ISSUE

A friend recently brought up the "shoe issue" to me.  Shoes always seem to be a challenge to the traveller. Tip: Include wearing your heaviest pair on the first and the last travel days.  For me, these would be my sneakers.  If you use a base-color theme (see my website: www.mimipackslight.com) as I do, then you would pack a comfortable walking shoe and a comfortable dress shoe in your base color (I use black) or one that complements the other outfits you have packed.  Remember to wrap your shoes in bags before putting them into your suitcase.  I use the plastic bags that I get for my groceries at the supermarket. For warmer climates you can expand the look of your travel wardrobe by using a favorite product of mine.  Shown above are Onesoles. These are shoes with interchangeable tops.  You buy the soles that feel best on your feet -- these soles usually come with at least one top -- and then you purchase others from the vast assortment that the company offers. Go to www.onesole.com for a retail store nearby or to buy online. I purchased a pair of low-wedge soles a couple of years ago and still get compliments for all the amazing tops.

A WELL-PACKED DAY BAG HELPS TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF TRAVEL

While day-tripping in Disney World can be a lot of fun, not being prepared can be a hassle. Unless I am with my grandchildren (which requires a much larger tote) I only need a small day bag for my daily outings.  That bag, though, must be well stocked.  Always included are a travel-size package of tissue, bottle of water, a couple of nutrition bars, an apple, a plastic rain poncho & umbrella if its cloudy or rain is expected, a small container of sunscreen, sun and reading glasses, and a few sanitizing wipes or liquid.  With my wallet, iPhone, a lipstick and comb, I'm good to go. 

KISSIMMEE, FL

Well, now, Kissimmee. FL is not quite in my own backyard.  It's a little more than three hours away but a fairly relaxing ride up the turnpike from the Boca Raton area.  I booked our hotel on Hotwire.com after three unsuccessful bid attempts on Priceline, fueled the car and packed 3 days worth of clothes, etc. in a carryon. It is the maiden voyage of my new Travelpro suitcase. Well made and sturdy, this bag looks like it can sustain a long and fulfilling relationship with me. (But more about that later.) Right now it is Kissimmee, the heartland of family entertainment and bliss, but where should we eat?  All the major chains are here, but I know a secret. I know about restaurant.com, and any adventure I am about to take starts with a couple of clicks to their site. Regardless of whether it is in my own backyard, across the state or across the country, restaurant.com offers excellent discounts. Recently some $25.00 certificates were available for as little as $2.00 each.

THE MORIKAMI MUSEUM AND JAPANESE GARDENS in Delray Beach, FL

When there is not enough time to travel or when the budget is low, it's time to check into your own "back yard." The Morikami  Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach, FL is a gem of a place often overlooked by the locals.  A cultural center for Japanese arts since 1977, the museum holds over 5000 Japanese artifacts, a bonsai collection, tea house and textile articles reflecting Japan's rich history.  The gardens represent various designs from different Japanese periods ranging from the eighth to the 20th century. Strolling through them, one notices how seamlessly they blend together. A visit to Morikami exquisite gardens calms the nerves and speaks to the spirit of the earth and the beauty it has to offer. A must see for everyone who lives near by as well as any visitor to the area. After a walk I recommend lunch at the museum restaurant overlooking the lake. The food is very good and the view delightful. 561-495-0233

PACKING HEAVY!

My journey to mimipackslight.com has been a convoluted one to say the least. It certainly didn't start out light. In fact, my first trip with a group of college friends started out on the heavier side. Back in 1969, with our schools based in Philadelphia, you would think that a short trip (an overnighter) to New York City for the St. Patrick's Day parade would have been a piece of cake. Not so for our novice group. You would have thought we were on route to a new life out west, packing everything we owned -- well, almost. We were savvy enough to book a room at the Waldorf Astoria but not savvy enough to know that it was a bit over-the-top to pack a very heavy electric skillet along with a pantry supply of canned goods. College kids get hungry you know. Well, there we were in the big city with suitcase upon suitcase filled with complete wardrobes, frying pans, spatulas, china plates (No paper for this group; we were at the Waldorf after all) and our first bottles of cheap liquor. The drinking age in Pennsylvania was 21 at the time, but, fortunately for us, New York, undergoing a lapse in good sense, had lowered theirs to 18! We drank, we cooked, we ate, drank some more, ate some more, nearly burnt the place down, drank a little more (maybe a lot), and then we saw green. But not from the St. Paddy's parade, which I'm not certain we ever saw anyway!