Yes – you can eat Hello Kitty (if you dare)! You can play and sleep and even give birth in Hello Kitty China! The crowds are lining up – the food is selling out and well – you better be prepared to elbow your way into this playland. The consumer demand is literally overwhelming! Check out this bloggers personal experience January 12th!
As we rally back to school and our flip flops and shorts are replaced by wool sweaters, jackets and cold weather gear, it is time to prepare for old man winter. When cooler temps, rain and snow are part of the daily forecast, protecting and conditioning your outerwear is highly recommended.
Nikwax, an earth-friendly manufacturer, leads the global market with an innovative line of waterproofing and maintenance products designed for all-weather clothing, footwear and gear.
Safety, Quality and Social Responsibility are words to live by for this European family-owned company. Nikwax’s commitment to their customers and employees around the world has directly contributed to the success of the brand.
Nikwax’s water-based products offer higher concentration waterproofing agents than aerosol products…up to five times more concentrated.
The Nikwax product line is safe for you and the environment - no chemical solvents so Nikwax is non-toxic. And, when you use Nikwax, you will be pleased to know that you are not contributing to global warning or ozone depletion. The products are non-flammable, emit no fumes and require no heat to activate water repellency.
Skiers, snowboarders and outdoor enthusiasts who love to play in the wet powder will love Nikwax’s TX Direct, a wash-in high performance re-proofing treatment that is easy, safe and quick to use. No hand washing needed; it works in a basic washing machine. TX Direct together with Nikwax’s Travel Gel Tech Wash, a non-detergent cleaner that won’t damage special coatings, will extend the life of your winter wardrobe.
And, every serious backcountry skier’s arsenal should include two of Nikwax’s best sellers –Nikwax’s SkiSkin Proof and Down Proof.
SkiSkin Proof is an effective sponge-on waterproofing product that prevents damaging ice build-up on ski skins. SkiSkin Proof alsostops saturation, reduces kick and keeps your skins in perfect glide condition season after season. Down Proof is a biodegradable wash-in treatment for down-filled clothing and gear. The product adds and renews water repellency, revives breathability and optimizes performance in wet weather keeping you comfortably warm and dry in unfavorable conditions.
The newest addition to the Nikwax line is a Wool Wash in a gel - especially formulated for the care of woolens and packaged for safe ” no spill” transport in your carry-on bag or backpack. This product not only gently cleans, the wash also enhances the wool’s natural wicking properties.
Adventurers will want to sure to pack along Nikwax’s Travel Gel Base Wash on their next trip. This product wash was created for cleaning synthetic base layers and will work wonders on keeping you and your clothes clean, dry and fresh-scented on those upcoming holiday escapes.
Nikwak products make the perfect stock-stuffers for friends and family members who never let the weather stop them from having a good time.
Retail Pricing:
Travel Gels (2 fl oz) – US $ 4.99-$5.99
TX Direct Wash-In (10 fl oz) -US $12.55
SkiSkin Proof (4.2 fl oz)- US $7.85
Down Proof (10 fl oz) – US $11.85
To learn more about Nikwax products, corporate philanthropic efforts and to find a retailer near you, visit the Nikwax Website.
Sleek and shiny, the iPad is one of those items you may spend months debating over. Pouring over pictures of it, reading the details listed, and now, gushing at the fun accessories. When you finally give in (especially if you’re a frequent traveler you have the whole it-would-be-so-convenient-for-all-the-traveling-I-do excuse) here are some of our favorite accessories that balance the cool and practical factors perfectly.
GripStand 2 / GripBase Bundle in White
Not only is this a killer deal, but it completely justifies itself with practicality points. The GripStand 2 (on the left) provides a shell of protection and can be swiveled 360 degrees. Perfect for watching a movie on the plane. Or, if you’re so inclined, it can be turned into a hook so you can hang your iPad 2 on the wall and display pictures from your trips.
The GripBase (above right) is equally cool and ideal for desk work. The wideness of the base makes it almost impossible to knock over.
This package also comes with a nylon strap (right) to securely attached your iPad 2 to a vehicle headrest. Perfect for the kids to watch movies on a long road trip.
Color makes everything better, and this smart cover from Apple makes an already amazing iPad even more amazing. It protects the screen and can fold over to create a stand for a propped-up view. Say goodbye to the clear and boring screen protectors and say hello to color.
Developed by an architect/artist, this brush is perfect for an afternoon of painting in the park. Check out the art gallery featuring work created by the Nomad Brush.
Because anything Moleskin does is cool. Also, there’s a little pad of Moleskin paper attached to the case. Sometimes, nothing beats the old fashioned pen and paper routine.
We’re keen on being green! It seems like everyone is these days, which is definitely a good thing. Show off your environmental flare with this one-of-a-kind upcycled leather passport case from Poketo. Each one is unique in color and texture. You simply choose your preferred color palette and wait for the surprise to come in the mail.
Upcycled leather passport case
100% upcycled from leather, handmade, one of a kind.
Stay on track during your next adventure with Bushnell’s hot new multi-function digital locator device – the BackTrack DTour Personal GPS. This sleek lightweight gadget is small enough to fit in your pocket or purse and is packed with features that will help you find your way back home in a jiffy!
Never get lost again!
The BackTrack D-Tour lets you mark and store up to five locations alerting you to the distance and direction to each — a true lifesaver especially if you should take a wrong turn on a hiking trail or if you can’t find the car in a crowded parking lot. The unit also comes with a self-calibrating digital compass and displays the current time, temperature and your exact location via detailed latitude, longitude and altitude coordinates. The BackTrack D-Tour captures all the key stats from your outing. A free software application allows you to easily upload the data to your computer and share route recommendations with friends and family.
With the holiday season just a few months away, the BackTrack D-Tour makes the perfect gift for outdoor and sports enthusiasts. And, more importantly, the perfect diva device for shopping safaris to the mega malls. By Thanksgiving, it can be a real jungle out there. Travel with peace of mind and style (available in fashionista regal red) knowing you and your goods will make it back safely long before the first credit card statement arrives.
Features & Specs:
Store and locate up to five locations
Easy to Use; 2 button functionality
Includes latitude and longitude coordinates
Includes time/temperature/altitude
Utilizes the latest digital technology
Weather resistant construction
Lightweight
Compact size
Carabineer clip included for easy attachment
Large backlit LCD screen
Battery Operated ( 2 AAA batteries)
1 year warranty
Suggested Retail: USD $119
To learn more about the BackTrack D-Tour including technical specs, informational videos and where to buy information, visit Bushnell online or check out the product website: www.backtrackgps.com
Everyone loves to escape for a long weekend…especially during the hot summer months.
But caring for our pets while we are away…can be a dilemma.
Cat owners are now in luck!
Automatic feeders and fountains are now the favorite solutions for extended cat care.
Cat owners will fall in love with the CAT RULES product line which features fun and functional automatic watering fountains that will keep your cat hydrated and healthy while you indulge in a long weekend escape.
The fountains come in a variety of whimsical designs with matching placemats - black & white cow, pastel blue fish and the top selling frog.
Each fountain comes packed with 2 active carbon filters that will last several months.
According to Dr. Sara Ford, a specialist in Veterinary Internal Medicine, who works with Cats Rule to develop products, “Flowing water attracts cats to drink more. It makes drinking an activity as well as something that leads to better health.”
Cats Rule offers a complete line of quality accessories and pet products designed with making the world a better place for you and your cat. Smart affordable solutions for litter box care, sleeping, feeding and playtime.
Fountain Retail Cost: $24.99
Available online at the Cats Rule website and select pet specialty stores.
As a Travel Diva who is constantly on the go, it is no easy task to find a shoe that meets my expectations and comfort requirements. But, as the saying goes…seek and you shall find.
My discovery was purely accidental. A big ”thank you” goes out to the retail representative at the St. Johns Town Center store in Jacksonvillethat truly knew her stuff. After a ten minute assessment, she made an incredible recommendation which instantly converted me to a lifelong customer.
I needed a versatile shoe that would take me from city streets to country roads. And, I was not willing to give up anything in terms of design and styling.
I wanted to look absolutely fabulous and feel no pain!
The Clarks WAVE PEAK delivered on every level.
OMG was my reaction when I tried on a pair. I felt like I was “Walking on Sunshine”. My guess is that Katrina of Katrina and the Waves who brought the song to international acclaim…would have loved a pair for her road tour. The shoe comes in 4 fashion forward colors that will work with every wardrobe: Black, Pewter, Bronze and Stone. Stock up gals…pewter and bronze are in limited supply.
The fit was perfect.
True to size.
Comfortable and Cozy.
The Specs: Sporty leather-and-mesh women’s sandal featuring innovative curved rocker sole that conserves energy, absorbs shock and cushions the joints. A removable Ortholite cushioned footbed puts extra comfort in every stride.
Where to Buy: Check out local Clark’s Retail Stores in your area; or visit the Clarks Online Store.
Suggested Retail: $100
Special Note: this shoe is the PERFECT gift for any diva who loves shoes…skip the flowers and give the gift that truly keeps on giving; you will be thoughtfully remembered in every step.
About Clarks USA: Since 1825 Clarks has been a pioneer in comfort footwear. Recognized Brands include: Clarks, Indigo, Privo and Bostonian.
This digital era, while sometimes overwhelming, really does help out travelers! Take, for instance, the new trend in digital travel: a personal guide book on your phone. Now you can figure out your itinerary without the bulk of travel guides in your luggage.
Why we like the mTrip Travel Guide series:
A travel guide with substance: attractions, hotels, restaurants, shopping destinations and more with ratings, reviews and image galleries.
Trip planner: Trip itineraries are automatically built based on your trip dates, accommodation, travel preferences (attractions, religious sights, parks and monuments), trip pace preference and traveler ratings.
Offline Maps & Directions: Get directions everywhere, offline with no roaming fees.
Traveler-generated updates – Take the advice of those who know first hand. Travelers can update the guide with their own ratings, reviews & pictures. Updates are made daily and free to all users
Sharing postcards: Use mTrip’s sharing feature to send your friends and family electronic postcards via Facebook & email. Do it on the go while you travel!
And the best part: no Internet required and no roaming fee!
mTrip Travel Guides are available for twenty US, European and Asian cities: New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Washington, Paris, London, Amsterdam, Berlin, Barcelona, Madrid, Munich, Moscow, Rome, Venice, Vienna, Istanbul, Dublin, Shanghai, Tokyo and Singapore. The guide is available in five languages (English, French, German, Spanish and Italian).
Reusable water bottles are the way to go. They’re cheap, convenient, and better for the environment. I always carry one when I travel to stay hydrated for cheap.
But finding the right bottle is important too. The last bottle I traveled with was oh-so-cute, but the “oh-so-cute” design quickly bled onto everything else once in contact with heat and sweat. The inside of my backpack did not appreciate its new splotchy hue.
Finally I found one I’ve really enjoyed. Coincidentally, some of my friends happen to use the same brand. Now they offer a great, new version of my Contigo bottle, perfect for my weekly gym sessions!
Presenting the new autoseal Kangaroo Hydration Bottle, which is designed with a fold-down front compartment for keys, credit cards, ear-buds or gym membership cards. I’m always misplacing my gym locker key (oops), so this is really helpful!
What I like about Contigo: the autoseal technology automatically seals the lid between sips, making the bottles 100 percent spill-proof and leak-proof. Also, the bottle is crafted from BPA-free Eastman Tritan copolyester.
Contigo bottles come in a variety of colors and styles. Take a look!
We love road trips. Why? Because they’re for every age, interest, and budget. From a girlfriend getaway to a romantic vacation to a family adventure, road trips are the perfect way to scratch your itch to travel.
Planning road trips are usually easier to do. But unless you plan wisely those few hours on the road could feel like years. Here are some handy tools to make your life easier.
1) Tripbase.com
They just introduced a tab on its site for drive vacations. Enter your origin, number of travelers, how many miles max you wish to cruise, and your personal travel preferences (nightlife, dining, shopping, nature, attractions). It helps travelers find the perfect road trip destination. Then voila, Tripbase will find you the perfect road trip spot and journey.
2) GPS
We like to keep things old school too, but sometimes comfort beats classic, for example, the wonderful invention of the GPS. Why make driving more stressful? Leave the worrying for other road mishaps.
Try: Garmin’s wide variety of GPS systems for your car or motorcycle. For the car, Nuvi is the best option. It has Google local search, so you can find plenty of restaurants and places of interest along the way.
3) Mobile Internet
We agree that unplugging is great for relaxation, but we know many travelers who love blogging about their trips. It’s fun for friends and family back home to virtually travel with you. Wireless USB devices allow you to search the internet from anywhere. Simply plug it into your laptop and you’re good to go!
Luckily, multiple carriers provide USB devices or cards so you get variety in price and coverage. (Verizon, Sprint, and more)
4) WebMD meets car
Nothing is worse than your car breaking down in the middle of Bumpkin, Nowhere. But who wants to worry about being overcharged at the mechanics before you leave? This cool, new tool provides a check-up for your car performed by you! CarMD is an electronic device that tracks and monitors the health of your car. Just plug it into your car and it reads the vehicle’s on-board computer. Then, plug it into your PC and read the health report of your car, complete with probable causes, fixes and estimated costs.
