I came across this artist (aSma is her name) on Etsy while searching for unique gift ideas. I was looking for a personal touch and a fun way to bring all of our travels together in a creative way. When I came across her work, I couldn’t resist.

Example of aSma’s Traveling Couples

Example of aSma’s Traveling Couples

Because traveling is our favorite hobby, I knew this portrait would be even more special because we could include several destinations we had visited together. And, because the combination of cities and countries we’ve traveled is unique to the two of us, this custom painting would be all the more personal. Purchasing was a breeze– I chose the size I wanted, added it to my cart and then, in the notes/comments section, I listed the cities and countries that Jeffrey and I have visited. If you have 4-5 specific cities/countries you want illustrated, just send her those. I couldn’t make up my mind, so I asked her to choose from my list.

Here’s our portrait, with sites from Bali, Paris, Cappadocia (Turkey), Bangkok and Charleston.

The artist, who lives in Dubai, was eager to please and easy to work with. Despite the time difference, aSma answered my emails quickly and thoroughly. The portrait got to me in plenty of time without rush shipping, but if you’re still looking for a Christmas gift, you better get a move on (and double check with aSma to see if she can do some extra rushing…).

Don’t forget! These portraits come in two sizes (8.3in x 5.8in for $29+ and 12in x 9.5in for $78+).

The post Etsy Find: Custom “Traveling Couple” Portrait first appeared on Weekend Blitz.

1) These sunglasses are a) on sale and b) fantastic for each and every face shape. I’m dying for a pair of sunglasses that are nice enough to really keep my eyes shaded but also can withstand the dark spaces deep within my purse. Usually when I travel, I take only my cheap-o pair of sunglasses, but they’ve endured one too many scratches and I’m ready for a new pair! (nordstrom.com)

2) I have been obsessing over Asia lately, and this book would be the ideal tool to help with my research. There are so many cities in Asia that are begging to be explored, and this New York Times book has a unique suggestion for each one. I’ve used the 36 Hours in the US and Canada quite often, and the “closed door dinner” suggestion for Buenos Aires (in 36 Hours in South America) turned out to be my favorite experience of our trip! Bonus: It’s on a sale for only $23.23! (amazon.com)

3) Aren’t you always jealous of the girls at TSA check points that look so put together while you struggle to put your shoes back on? I am. But, with this black passport cover, you can at least look like you’ve got it all together. It’s not too obnoxious so you won’t be embarrassed to pull it out at customs in a strange place. (anthropologie.com)

4) Even though you can sleep in ratty T-shirts at home, I always like fancy pajamas for traveling. These fit the bill perfectly — because who doesn’t love rompers?! (shopbop.com)

5) The holidays are the perfect time to visit old friends and, luckily, most of my friends live just a few hours away. I’m planning a few weekend trips to celebrate the season with them, and what better to pack in than this super-cute weekender bag? The quilted pattern on this all black bag adds an extra bit of glam without being over the top. Plus, it’d fit perfectly in an overhead bin for visits with friends who live an airplane ride away instead of a drive. (nordstrom.com)

Featured image source: By: JD Hancock – CC BY 2.0

The post TUESDAY’S TOP 5 first appeared on Weekend Blitz.

On our trip to Thailand (my first foray into Southeast Asia), I packed adhering to the pretty strict temple dress code. I was quickly shocked to find out that a) yikes, even cotton pants don’t breathe like they should! and b) every other woman tourist there had not seemed to pack according to the dress code at all! And, what’s more, outside of each temple where they ask you not to have bare shoulders and knees is a cute little stand selling sarongs for less than $3!

So, my packing guide doesn’t always follow the dress code (because you just can’t get adjusted to the sticky hot, even if you call Charleston, SC home), but there’s a few sleeved options in case you just want to play it safe. Also, keep in mind that it’ll be cold in some airports/hotels/nights, so it’s always a safe bet to pack a variety of options.

Without further ado, here’s a suggested packing list (and options) for a two week trip to Southeast Asia. Using these ideas, you can hike up a mountain…

I did wearing clothes like this:

… My fear of heights just didn’t really love the million steps up.

… but I wouldn’t advise days-long trekking. If you’re more interested in that type of trip, you’ve found the wrong packing guide.

Suggested Packing List:
2 Shorts
1-2 Maxi Skirts
1 Pants (or leggings)
1 Long-Sleeved Shirt
5-6 Sundresses (casual)
4 Short-Sleeved Shirts
1 (lightweight) Raincoat
2 Bathing Suits

2 Workout Shorts
3 Workout Shirts

1 Pajamas

1 (lightweight) fleece

3 Bras
1 Sports Bra
5 Panties
3 Socks

1 Tennis shoes (can also be used for short hikes, etc.)
1 Flip Flops (can be used in questionable showers, beach trips, etc.)
1 Flats (make sure they are very comfortable for walking long distances!)
1 Wedge (optional; if you have extra room, a fun shoe can quickly dress you up for a fun night out)

1 Carryon purse (can also carry laptop, etc.)

Toiletries (make up, face wash, shampoo if you need a certain brand…)
Travel hairdryer (it’s a must for me; maybe you can skip it!)

Click through the gallery below for specific ideas on what to throw into your suitcase!

Southeast Asia for Two Weeks by mccown featuring Sam Edelman

Madewell dress
madewell.com

Madewell dress
madewell.com

Madewell dress
madewell.com

Madewell dress
madewell.com

Madewell dress
madewell.com

J Crew white t shirt
jcrew.com

Madewell tunic
madewell.com

Madewell t shirt
madewell.com

Madewell crop top
madewell.com

NIKE sleeveless top
$41 – yoox.com

Rag bone white shirt
shoplesnouvelles.com

How to Pack for Two Weeks in Southeast Asia first appeared on Weekend Blitz.

I realized that travel shoes were important — especially ones that could get wet. And, with the beginning of the fall season, I’ve been on the market for a good pair of waterproof flats. Ideally, they’ll look like normal flats — but just won’t get ruined if I get caught in the rain.

I’ve found two pairs that fit the bill, both with good reviews. I’d wear both of these flats in rain or shine, so they’re easy to pack for trips when you’re mixing and matching your way through a carry-on.

 Hunter Original Ballet Flat, $125

Hunter Original Ballet Flat

Hunter Original Ballet Flat

First up, we have the Hunter Original Ballet Flat. These flats are on sale for $125 at Nordstrom and Zappos, with other not-so-cute versions at Neiman Marcus and Amazon. Both the nude (found at Zappos) and black (at Nordstrom) colors are perfect for pairing with jeans, skirts or dresses and dressing up or down. And, we all know that the Hunter brand is a trusted, tried and true rain-friendly shoe. While they’re a bit on the expensive side for a plain rubber flat, it’s an investment that will last a while. These shoes only come in full sizes, so order accordingly.

 Melissa + Jason Wu Jean Cut Out Flats, $105

Melissa + Jason Wu Jean Cutout Flats

Melissa + Jason Wu Jean Cutout Flats

I found these waterproof flats a few months ago (on ShopBop and Amazon here) and fell in love. THEN, by some stroke of good luck, I found them over on Gilt.com for only $59!!

They are the perfect travel shoe. Reviews rave about how comfortable they are (huge must) AND they bring back the 90’s fad of jellies. I couldn’t get enough of jellies in the ’90s, so I’m pumped that they’re back. But, remember the gross smell of jellies? Melissa + Jason Wu has tried to cut back on that plastic-y smell, so they’ve added a perfume to the shoe that just doesn’t quite cut it. It smells more like a 12 year old’s perfume (but then again, it is a jelly…?). On the flip side, it’s your shoe, so who’s going to be close enough to smell the perfume? These cute waterproof shoes only come in whole sizes, too and, although most reviewers said to size down, I found sizing down cramped my foot, so I’ve ordered one size up.

BOTTOM LINE:  One of these shoes is sure to fit your needs for a comfortable flat to wear on a trip each day even when it’s raining.

The post Best Waterproof Flats For Travel first appeared on Weekend Blitz.

In addition to your weekend apparel (here’s my suggestion for what clothing to pack), I like to add a few little things to my carry-on that make my flight (or drive) a little more bearable. If you’re looking for a good weekender bag, check out my suggestions here.

Target recently started carrying the Honest brand and this 2 oz. hand sanitizer (for $2.99) is the perfect travel size. We all know how germ-y airplanes can be and I’m always hoping I remembered to pack hand sanitizer each time I’m reminded how disgusting all plane bathrooms are…

This EOS lip balm (shown here in Sweet Mint) comes in an assortment of scents that will always remind you of summertime. Perfect for throwing in your bag, this balm will keep your lips smooth despite all the dry air on your plane. You can pick up EOS lip balm in most grocery check-out aisles or from Ulta here for $3.49.

These Aveeno makeup removing wipes are perfect for removing your makeup right before a long flight. It’s always refreshing to go makeup-free for a flight, then reapply at your destination. These wipes contain soothing chamomile and won’t aggravate even the most sensitive of eyes. Purchase these wipes for $6.99 at Aveeno.com or at most CVS, Rite Aids, Wal Marts or grocery stores near you.

Don’t want to break out your electric toothbrush in the airport/airplane bathroom? I don’t blame you. Try this Colgate Travel Toothbrush from Walgreens instead. It folds and is only $2.19!

One last beauty product you need to include in your carry-on is the versatile NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream. This stuff is like a smoother lip stain – and perfect to apply when your plane’s wheels hit the ground. For only $6, it’s a steal at nyxcosmetics.com.

I am addicted to these Madagascar Vanilla Almond Kind Bars (you can get a 12-pack on Amazon for $16.56). If your in-flight meal is truly unappetizing or you’re looking for a quick snack, stash one of these bars in your carry-on and the protein-packed snack will tide you over until you get to your destination.

Airplanes are always freezing cold, so it’s smart to pack a scarf that can double as a blanket. Try one of these from Anthropologie:  the Valreas Kimono and the Zagori Scarf are both $68 each.

As always, if you’re checking a bag, don’t forget to add all of your essentials to your carry-on in case your bag gets lost somewhere along the way. Many suggest packing your prescriptions and nice jewelry in a small case, that way, even if your carry-on is taken [...]

The post Top 7: Carry-On Travel Essentials first appeared on Weekend Blitz.

I just picked up a great pair of cognac sandals on sale at Gap (they’re completely sold out online, but a similar style is listed below) and it feels like I’ve been walking on air. The walk-ability of your shoes is super important when traveling, so I’ve found a couple other shoes that may fit the bill… and still look cute in your pictures.

These T-strap sandals are the perfect summer shoe. And, they have the same sole as my new Gap sandals, so I can vouch for their comfort. These sandals will go with anything, so you can wear them all day and then for a casual night out, too. At just $29.95, they’re very affordable and you can choose between off-white, indigo (pictured here) or black straps.

These slip-on sneakers are all the rage these days, and I love this blush pink snakeskin option from Joie Kidmore. The reviewers on Piperlime are raving about how comfortable these shoes are — and the good news is these are much more stylish than Toms:  these aren’t your grandmother’s slip-ons! If you’re just dying for a pair, be prepared to shell out $190 – double if you want them in black AND pink.

Don’t want to spend $190 on pink snakeskin? I don’t blame you. Check out this similar pair at Gap for just $49.95.

These black ballet flats are anything but generic. First of all, they’re made by Cole Haan, a brand widely known for their quality craftsmanship and comfort. Reviews say they “fit like snuggly slippers” and are easy to break in… sounds like great travel shoes to me!  And, with Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale going on now, they’re 30% off at $116.90.

But the real reason why I picked these? They’re waterproof!! After completely ruining a pair of snakeskin flats on my honeymoon after I walked through the rain all day, I’m a big believer in taking at least one pair of shoes with you that you don’t mind getting wet. If only I’d had these with me then…

These $45 Van’s sneakers from Madewell are perfect for sight-seeing in the summer.  Comfortable and low-key, these shoes (which come in off-white and navy) are perfect with a pair of shorts and a graphic tee or even a maxi dress.

If you’re more of the real sneaker type, check out these Pumas (now on sale for almost half off at just $36.00!) I’ve had my eye on these for quite some time, looking to kill two birds with one stone:  gym shoes when I’m at home and lightweight tennis shoes while I’m traveling and find myself biking, hiking and more. I snagged these as soon as they went on sale this week. Sometimes you really do need a sturdy pair of tennis shoes. I love these because they’re neutral and don’t scream “I’m an American [...]

The post Top 10 Best Women’s Walking Shoes for Travel first appeared on Weekend Blitz.

The trickiest part about packing is where you’re headed. Does the weather match your hometown? If not, you may need to pull out your off-season stored clothes. What activities do you plan to do? If you’re planning a wide variety of activities – from shopping, to climbing a mountain, you’ll have to remember to pack accordingly.

While it’s all very elementary stuff, it can still be hard to squeeze everything you might need into one little weekend bag.

So, here’s how to start:

WHERE ARE YOU GOING?

First things first, pack for the weather. It took me several trips to a very cold city to finally remember to pack my winter coat! Be sure to check the weather for where you’re headed (preferably for the week leading up to your trip) to make sure you have a good idea of what to expect. When you’ve figured out the season, you’re off to a good start.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING?

Will you be walking around the city mostly? Does it have hills? Is there a famous mountain or sight-seeing cliff, maybe, that you’ll be climbing to the top? Hope you’ve come prepared. Coming from a girl who climbed a mountain in Montreal in Jack Rogers, the shoes are the most important part of your packing plan. Don’t forget your flats! And, head here for my thoughts on gel inserts. Just make sure you’re prepared for everything you could end up doing, because the VERY last thing you should ever do is not go on an adventure because you didn’t pack appropriately.

PACK THE CLASSICS

Everyone’s closet is different, with different “basics,” (Need a place to start with basics? Read this.) but we all have things we can mix and match. Packing the classics to me means packing foundation items – cute shirts you can wear under a scarf or big necklace, neutral bottoms (jeans, white shorts, jorts…), and the list goes on. Make sure you have enough classics to cover your time, and voila, the hard work is finished!

NOW, THE FUN STUFF

Eating out somewhere special? Maybe spending a night or two out on the town? Pack for it! Here’s what I think:  you’ll be taking more pictures than normal, so pack accordingly! No one likes to look at pictures of themselves wearing old, boring clothes. So, I say, pack your most fun things. And, here’s a secret… even if it’s too fancy or extravagant for a night out on the town in your hometown, you’re on vacation now. Pack those sequins, girl!

PACKING LIST

For a weekend getaway, I’d say this is what you should shoot for:

– 2 fancy-schmancy outfits for Friday and Saturday nights (don’t forget the fancy shoes!)
– 1 pair of pants (or shorts, depending on the climate)
– 3 shirts (these little suckers roll up really, really tiny, so throw in an extra [...]

The post How to Pack for a Weekend Getaway first appeared on Weekend Blitz.

First things first, I did my research before leaving the states – before you ever land in Istanbul, you need to know what Turkey is known for and therefore what to look for when browsing. Obviously, Turkey is most famous for their rugs. Now, because they’re world-renown, they’re also very, very expensive. And surely too expensive for a 24-year-old. So…onto more attainable souvenirs…

jewelry
ceramics
textiles (hand towels, tableclothes, etc.)

CERAMICS:

The ceramic plates I found at Kapalı Çarşısı (the Grand Bazaar) are colorful and eye-catching, hand painted and, most importantly, remind me of the vibrant Turkish culture every time I eat on them.

Jeff had no idea what he was getting in to: The Grand Bazaar is a shopping lover’s dream!

Turkish ceramics gained popularity in the 14th century and were highly prized – even by the Turkish Sultans. These days, you can find these hand painted ceramics to fit any budget – from magnets for 1 TL to vases for thousands of dollars.

And they’re not hard to find. Just one peak into the Grand Bazaar and you’ll find little booths of ceramics sellers around every corner. The trick is to bargain with them enough to find a fair price. Beware: some booths will recognize that you’re an American and will not budge on their exorbitant prices. Not to fear: there’s always another booth.

I ended up purchasing four hand-painted dinner plates for $68 – and my only regret is that I didn’t get a set of at least eight.

JEWELRY:

As for jewelry, head down İstiklal Avenue in the neighborhood called Beyoğlu and turn into a tiny alley way (you have to be looking for it, or you’ll miss it!) named:

The address is İstiklal Caddesi No. 116. Once you’re in, let all the men you’re traveling with sit in this courtyard tea garden and have some Turkish coffee…

Then, you go find Chris Kami (116/1A Hongecidi Sokak, Kazzo Pulo Pasaji) — or, for those not quite able to follow directions and having left the men behind that usually do the dirty work, it is literally a stone’s throw from the garden. You can see the garden from the store’s entrance.

I first read about this hand-made jewelry shop in my Frommer’s guidebook (Istanbul Day by Day), and, needless to say, I just had to go.

I was shocked to find the great prices, and spent some time deciding how many pieces to buy. I finally decided to buy myself a bracelet (about $12) and a few gifts for others.

PRINTS:

Jeffrey and I literally stumbled into a packed framing shop — I can’t even begin [...]

The post Souvenirs: Turkey first appeared on Weekend Blitz.

If you’re still at a loss for what to get Dear Old Dad, here’s a few travel-inspired gifts that won’t break the bank.

I have been dying for a globe – and my guess is that dads would like this, too:  to sit on his desk and spin when he’s bored, or daydream (do dads daydream?) about where to travel next.

I like this globe because it’s more muted than other globes I’ve seen, and the off-white ocean color seems a bit more Dad-ish than a bright blue.  I’ve seen really nice globes on sites like One King’s Lane pretty often, too, so keep your eyes peeled.

Ship this globe straight to Dad from Amazon. It’s not too late for overnight shipping! $49.95

This gift is for a dad on the go. I received a passport holder as a gift and love it — I use the pockets in the front and back flaps to keep old ticket stubs, luggage match tags, etc.

Pick up this cognac case for only $48 from Johnston & Murphy.

I actually gave these luggage tags to my dad for Christmas this past year, at his own request, so it’s officially Dad-Approved. Great quality and not too big…or too small.

A set of 3 is just $39 from Orvis with free engraving!

And finally, for those of us with nerdy dads, how about a book on travel? Even better if you know the place he wants to travel next. For my Dad, it’s the Galapagos Islands.

This book couples the history of the islands with a travel guide, perfect for a Dad who’s researching for his next trip. What a thoughtful gift!

Order it from Amazon for only $19.45 (this book isn’t available in hardback).

The post WKND PICK: Last Minute (Travel-Inspired) Father’s Day Gifts first appeared on Weekend Blitz.