New York is known for many things—the energy, the diversity, the entertainment, the food—but the hotel scene makes this city stand out among the rest of the world. Hotels in New York City are more than just places for travelers to rest their heads. Instead, thanks to the unmatched ambiance, high-profile chefs, and Instagram-worthy décor, they are considered the It spots for locals, tourists, and celebrities alike. Per usual, the hotels of the moment are constantly changing, but throughout my time so far at NYFW, I was able to catch wind of the hotels that everyone is talking about this season.
Some of the establishments listed below are basically institutions in this city while others are the newest on the scene. What unites them all is the fact that if someone were to ask you where they should go drink, eat, or stay in New York, you would appear insanely in the know if you mentioned any of the five hotels listed below. These hotels are specifically beloved among the celebrity and fashion crowd—two groups of people who love nothing more than being seen at the most-talked-about spots, period.
I’ll preface this by saying that I used to live in New York and have traveled there countless times since. For these reasons, I considered myself to be a pretty good packer for NYC visits. But after the trip I just returned from, I’m questioning my skills a bit. Correction: I’m considering it to be a packing learning lesson.
I realized as soon as I stepped out of LaGuardia that it’s been several years since I visited New York in the summer. I always seem to find myself there when it’s freezing, so I just stay bundled up in coats and boots the entire time. This time around, it was mid-July, and the humidity was high. On top of that, there were bouts of rain each day that I was there, and it always seemed to be when I was walking around outside. Unfortunately, not all of the outfits (and shoes) I planned were ideal, and I vowed to learn from my packing mistakes. But to be fair, dressing for summer in NYC is historically difficult. It gets very hot, you’ll inevitably be doing tons of walking, and I personally like being a bit more covered up in a big, busy city than elsewhere.
All that said, here are the mistakes I’m vowing to avoid for future summer trips to New York.
The art of crafting an outfit for a long flight is exactly that—an art. Obviously, comfort is priority number one given that you could very well be sitting for 10, maybe even 20 hours, depending on where you’re headed. There’s also utility to keep in mind. We love to travel with a crossbody bag or fanny pack for this exact reason—not to mention packing space and, of course, style. Sure, you could wear pajamas (preferably the fancy, feathered kind) to the airport, but with so many designers transitioning to a more comfort-driven aesthetic during the pandemic, there are plenty of fashion-approved alternatives that look elevated and are soft and flexible like your go-to sleepwear.
To ensure that your in-flight experience is on par with your destination, we found 12 outfits that are sure to have you looking and feeling fresh, despite the 10-plus-hour flight time, and we called on two frequent flyers for their tried-and-true tips.
Even though I’ve written plenty of stories about packing over the years, I don’t always practice what I preach. Packing isn’t my forte, and I typically find myself scrambling at the last minute to put together appropriate outfits, which inevitably leads to panic shopping. The problem with panic shopping (besides stress and high express shipping costs) is that you generally only think about this one occasion instead of considering longevity and what you need in your wardrobe. Needless to say, it’s not the smartest way to spend your money.
Finally, I decided to change my ways and make a concerted effort to plan ahead by stocking my wardrobe with versatile, packable pieces that work for various locations I may travel to. Since slowly adding these pieces to my wardrobe, there’s been a noticeable decline in last-minute panic shopping on my part. So naturally, I thought I’d share my list of travel-friendly purchases in case you, too, are guilty of the same. Scroll to shop in advance of your next trip.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Historically, the travel industry has been clearly segmented. People traveled for business or pleasure without a significant overlap between those two, and work-from-anywhere policies were rare or nonexistent. Hence, customer behavior was predictable, and as companies learned more about their customers–and over time, they learned a lot–they built products tailored to a specific bracket.
Leisure travelers wanted a place to disconnect from work, so companies developed concepts like resorts with amenities for different profiles, from luxury travelers to budget-conscious adventurers. Also, this accelerated the marketing efforts around popular tourist destinations, which was strengthened by offering special deals and promotions.
On the other hand, business travelers needed a different set of features, like a central location to optimize their mobility within a city, elegant spaces to host business partners, such as conference rooms, cafes and spa centers, and to streamline payments and billing in line with the company’s accounting requirements.
With the wider adoption of remote work, a new trend that blends business and leisure has risen. There is more “bleisure” travel now, without a clear differentiation by destination or purpose of travel, but rather a merge and interpenetration of services and products depending on the behavior of certain customer groups.
Both travel “hardware” — destinations, accommodations, flights — and travel “software” — services, payments, marketing and promotion — have mixed and “blended.” This has created a new market segment that traditional travel companies are eager to snatch.
Here are three ways the business travel industry is being redefined and some potential trends and synergies that we might see in coming years.
Work-from-anywhere policies have increased flexibility for everyone.
A group of remote workers from San Francisco who flew to San Diego for a week-long bleisure trip might have enjoyed the city so much that they decided to stay for a month. A team from London visiting clients in Australia opted to extend their trip and report back to headquarters. In their free time, of course, they will enjoy all the natural wonders the country offers.
The scenarios above are only two of myriad potential ways in which employees who can work from anywhere now join the digital nomad ranks, even if only temporarily. But with around 50% of U.S. workers able to work remotely and numbers in other countries rising, it is a situation that might happen very frequently.
Something that companies need to understand is that bleisure travelers demand flexibility. A Google survey revealed that 85% of travel marketers considered flexibility with bookings and cancellations a very important factor.
There are ways in which hospitality companies are adapting to this. CitizenM designed a pioneering hotel membership program, offering a fixed rate at its properties. Airbnb’s Flexible Search model has boosted travel numbers in Europe while having a positive, sustainable impact.
The companies that will thrive catering to bleisure travelers provide flexibility in addition to other must-haves like affordability and an emphasis on the traveler’s experience.
2. Contact, connection and community will be key business drivers
Companies that prioritize these three Cs will likely see a surge in their revenues.
Contact: People who work from anywhere need good WiFi, a comfortable space to work, and easy access to conveniences like power outlets. Having these readily accessible will draw more people to your space.
And if you’d like to take an extra step, here’s an idea from WeWork: private booths for those that need to take a Zoom call or engage in deep work. Another example is Delta’s project, in partnership with T-Mobile, which aims to introduce fast, free Wi-Fi in most aircraft by the end of 2024.
Paired with contact comes connection. And here, I do not mean WiFi.
One of the challenges that many digital nomads face is the lack of a community which can result in loneliness and disconnection. The need for human connection is paramount, especially when working for long hours looking at a screen.
Hence, travel service providers must underscore the relevance of spaces fostering community, collaboration and social interaction.
Placing a good value on connection results in the third C, which is community. When people feel inspired by a hospitality brand, they will either want to stay longer or come back more often. If the company has sister properties in other parts of the world, they will likely prioritize your brand.
3. Expect increased cross-industry collaboration
Before its pre-IPO ordeal, WeWork’s founders developed an idea called WeLive. It was seen as obnoxious at the time. Still, today, a concept like that is alluring for remote workers traveling for the first time, giving them immediate access to a community.
Other brands, like Selina, have capitalized on this, building hostels and co-working spaces to diversify their revenue between the people who book accommodation, the people who book workspace, and the people who book both.
While Selina was born with digital nomadism in mind, we can expect big hotel names like Hilton, Marriott, and IHG to plot a project that attempts to capture this attractive market niche. Concepts like Yotel or the Marriott-developed Moxy, which has dynamic lobbies that foster human interaction, are already addressing this demographic, and we should not be surprised if we see synergies between companies that are well-established in the hospitality market with those that have emerged in the coworking or shared office arena to provide the ultimate bleisure experience.
As the world continues to adapt to the reality of remote work, more trends will likely emerge. However, the concept of bleisure is something that is here to stay, and it is something that travel providers will need to consider in their growth and development. Given that this type of traveler tends to be highly community-oriented and has strong brand loyalty, the companies that manage to capture the bleisure segment effectively can gain an edge in today’s competitive and increasingly crowded market.
Last week, I left the office on a Monday morning and took a cab to Newark International Airport to board a flight to Milan, Italy for a press trip centered around the Formula One Grand Prix in Imola, a small city near Bologna and Florence. From EWR to MXP, the flight is about 8 hours. From there, we were to take a 2- to 3-hour car ride from Milan to our hotel, Borgo Condé, about an hour from the track. In total, that would’ve made my travel day somewhere around 10 hours, with the expectation of the same on the way back. Little did I know, though, that due to unprecedented flooding in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy, I’d be traveling a whole lot more than just to and from the airport.
Due to the weather, we ended up moving to multiple hotels and houses, all of which were located in different parts of Northern Italy, making my time spent traveling reach well over the 20-hour time frame that I’d initially prepared for when I was packing my carry-on and personal item for the trip. But honestly, it didn’t matter. After years of planing, training, and automobiling for both work and pleasure, I’ve learned a thing or two about packing for any and all circumstances. From portable chargers—which seriously came in handy after my laptop and phone died without power to charge them—and expandable bags—a must if you plan to shop at all—to very necessary SPF and comfortable travel attire, scroll down to dig through my carry-on from my long and exhausting 20+ hour travel journey to and from Italy last week.
A couple of weeks ago, I found myself packing for a quick trip to Europe. I was feeling pretty good about myself for being able to fit all of my beauty products into a carry-on bag. I was just about to throw my Dyson Airwrap into my luggage when it dawned on me—Katie, you can’t bring that thing to Europe.
Anyone who has ever been abroad and tried to plug in anything has undoubtedly learned that the plugs overseas are entirely different than what we have in America. America operates on 120 volts, while other countries operate on anywhere from 110-127V to 220-240V. For things like your computer or iPhone charger, you can get away with any old converter, but once you start wading into higher powered appliances like hair tools, things can get dicey. While I ended up forgoing a hair tool for this trip, I reached out to stylists so that I can be prepared for my next one. Read on for everything you ever wanted to know about bringing a hair tool abroad.
Google is confident in its ability to determine when flights are at their lowest price. Now, it’s putting that conviction to the test by betting on the odds that prices won’t go down.
In a blog post announcing a series of updates in preparation for summer travel, Google said the company is adding a pilot program called the “Google Price Guarantee.” Google Flights users will see a “price guarantee badge” on select flights, and Google will monitor the fare and pay you the difference if the price drops before your departure.
However, there are a variety of limitations to the update. For one, the pilot program is currently only applicable to flights within the U.S., and to those who book with a U.S. billing address and phone number. Also, the company is offering a max of $500 back per calendar year, and the deal does not apply if the price drop is less than $5. Additionally, you’ll only get the money back through Google Pay, which must be set up within 90 days of departure of the chosen flight. Also, of course, the flights need to be booked directly through Google Flights.
Although the company’s blog post said the pilot program launched Monday, we were unable to find any flights that displayed the badge.
“While our goal is to offer the price guarantee for as many routes and airlines as we can, right now it’s only available for airlines that use Book on Google,” a Google spokesperson told Entrepreneur. “You’re most likely to see it on itineraries for Alaska, Spirit, or Hawaiian Airlines, although that’s not an exhaustive list.”
Among the other updates announced are a “swipeable story format” to browse hotels as well as an easier way to explore tours and experiences with Google Maps that shows ticket prices directly on the listing.
Screenshot of Google Map’s new browse feature for attractions, tours and experiences.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Work environments aren’t limited to traditional offices these days. Many opt to work anywhere with Wifi to create a better work-life balance. Others travel extensively for their jobs, heading from city to city with few home stops in between.
When traveling for work in any capacity, it’s convenient to have a “go” bag packed with your favorite beauty essentials. It takes the guesswork out of packing and ensures you are stocked up before boarding your next flight.
Here are ten must-have beauty items to keep you looking polished and professional wherever you are.
1. Face cleansing wipes
A pack of travel-sized face cleansing wipes can easily be tucked into a carry-on and used in a pinch. Get rid of dirt, grime and old makeup easily when a full facial cleanse isn’t an option. Find wipes with soothing ingredients like aloe or eucalyptus to perk up the senses and calm the skin.
Also, make sure they’re alcohol-free to avoid stripping the skin of needed moisture post-flight. Simple Exfoliating Facial Wipes with aloe vera, pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E are gentle yet effective for all skin types. When you’re in a hurry but need to wipe the slate clean, so to speak, these will be your saving grace.
Studies show people sleep better in dark, quiet environments, which makes an eye mask and earplugs an essential travel combination. It’ll help you sleep more comfortably on a plane, train and in your hotel room.
It’s easy to fall off your natural sleep cycle when traveling from time zone to time zone, which is the first thing that will affect how you look and feel. Protect your sleep schedule for the sake of not only your beauty routine but, more importantly, your overall health.
It’s amazing what a swipe of lipstick or tinted lip balm can do to make you feel immediately put together. A bold color can feel empowering, while a neutral tone can add just enough of a hue to feel poised and ready to go. Remember to keep lips moisturized by sloughing away dry, cracked skin and applying a lip treatment at night. Then, tuck a favorite shade into your “go” bag and keep a reserve at home so you’ll always be prepared. Get the pigmentation you desire with the hydration you need to keep lips flake-free.
4. Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo buys time between washings to keep hair looking and smelling fresh. Adding dry shampoo gives a boost to limp locks and helps out with oily strands. Spray directly at the root and allow the product to absorb before styling. It’s a simple solution to give life back to your hair when stretched for time. Plus, it keeps hair from drying out from washing it too much.
A go-to for travelers is Act+Acre Plant-Based Dry Shampoo. Its clean, scent-free formula does the trick when heading straight from the plane to an important meeting or from a day in the office directly to a business dinner. Plus, the small travel-sized container can be discreetly tucked away and pulled out to use whenever needed.
Climate changes can quickly dry out the skin leaving behind a tired appearance. A lightweight moisturizer keeps skin healthy, supple, and bright. Choose one with SPF for sun protection and a formula designed for your skin type. Neutrogena’s Healthy Skin Face Lotion contains SPF 15 and alpha-hydroxy acid to boost skin tone.
Also, if you want to limit the use of a heavy foundation, a tinted moisturizer works as a good substitute, such as EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectum SPF 40. It provides light coverage without the caked-on finish foundation can often have if the skin is too dry.
6. Eye drops
Those who wear contacts already know the importance of eye drops when traveling. However, even if you don’t need glasses, eye drops soothe tired eyes after a long commute or after hours of looking at a screen. There are several name-brand options, but generic eye drops work just as well to brighten up the eyes and keep them from feeling so dry.
Mascara is one of the top beauty essentials many refuse to leave home without. It’s another product to pack to make the eyes pop. Opt for a smudge-proof formula like CoverGirl Smudge Proof Mascara that’ll stick with you during a day of travel without smearing. Add a few coats but avoid layering it on too thick to keep the look natural and business-appropriate.
8. Concealer
A hydrating under-eye concealer helps to camouflage dark circles and instantly brighten up the face. The trick is to tap the product into place rather than rubbing it back and forth with a brush or beauty sponge. CoverGirl Turblend Undercover Concealer is ideal for all-day wear, providing a matte finish. Use the third finger to dab it under the eye and smooth it out gently. A concealer stick is important when traveling for work to keep the face looking fresh.
A blush stick provides a two-in-one advantage when used as a blush and eye shadow and doesn’t require a brush to apply. Stick to a neutral shade like the Charlotte Tilbury Moon Beach blush stick, a peachy, rose gold hue, and use clean fingertips to blend into the cheekbones for a natural-looking flush. Work situations don’t necessarily require a full face of makeup; sticking with a few beauty essentials can keep you looking polished.
10. Dental floss
Though floss may not be deemed a true beauty essential, it’s necessary to have it with you at the ready. Nothing is worse than experiencing an entire meeting or client dinner with food stuck between the teeth. Never get in this type of compromising position (and subsequent embarrassment), and remember to add it to your bag.
Consider these ten beauty essentials part of your travel arsenal to prepare you for wherever your work travels take you next.
This past weekend was my first time flying since I signed up for TSA PreCheck, and I don’t know what I was waiting for. At the end of last year, I traveled nearly every other week, and the constant pauses and pat-downs drove me crazy. I know a thing or two about getting through TSA in a hurry, but when I was assigned the topic of finding out what jewelry you can get by with, I was at a loss for words. After a quick chat with TSA representative Lisa Farbstein, I now know every gritty detail. Farbstein first let me in on a relieving sentiment: “TSA officers don’t want to give pat-downs, and travelers don’t want to receive them.” So we’re on the same page.
Farbstein told me that while there are no specific guidelines, she’s learned a thing or two holding a role that keeps her so close to the metal detectors and tubular X-ray machines. Her main advice is to avoid wearing anything bulky, but you’re good with the majority of your everyday pieces. “People often take off jewelry that they don’t need to take off honestly. Sometimes they take off light earrings or a dainty necklace. They often end up leaving this behind,” she shared. If you don’t want to lose your jewelry, wear it through security or leave it in your carry-on.
There are two kinds of people in the world—those who solely travel with carry-ons and those who never do. Personally, I’m more of a grab the largest suitcase you own no matter how long the trip is kind of a gal myself, but after giving it some thought, I realized I was only packing that way because I was not educated enough in the art of packing a carry-on suitcase. Every time I tried to limit myself to one carry-on, I failed. It wasn’t just what I was packing, it was how I was packing it, and a bunch of other crucial errors that were pointed out to me by a few of my favorite celebrity stylists.
If there’s anyone in this world who knows the ins and outs of travel, it’s celebrities and their stylists. Most of the time, these dynamic duos travel across the country for a one-day shoot or an evening event just to head back home moments later. In other words, they are pretty much the queens of packing solely in carry-on suitcases and I was determined to snag some tips from the experts. Ahead, you’ll hear from 3 of my go-to celebrity stylists on the worst carry-on packing mistakes one can make plus a few of their under-the-radar tips.
Mistakes:
1. Packing non-versatile pieces.
“I always pack things that I can wear for different occasions. It sounds crazy but my client Sherrie Silver and I are traveling together right now in Australia and she wore her silk pajama top out to dinner last night! Pieces like this are awesome for versatility. I love anything from Lunya for this.”
2. Not checking the weather.
“Always check the weather before a trip. This is so important. If it’s chilly somewhere I am going, I always pack a cashmere sweater to layer under a leather jacket or sweatshirt. If it’s warmer, I love packing a singlet (what my Australian clients call tanks). I love a bodysuit tank from Otherwise Topless.”
3. Being messy and unorganized.
“My last tip is that organization is key. I am obsessed with Dagne Dovers travel bags. They are lightweight and so durable. I pack every client with a Dagne bag for wardrobe supplies, jewelry storage, and toiletries!”
Tips:
1. Slip in a dryer sheet.
“To keep your clothes feeling and smelling fresh in a carry-on, slip a dryer sheet in your suitcase!”
2. Use duster bags.
“Reuse shoe duster bags for underwear, bathing suits, socks, and jammies! This helps keep things organized and clean.”
Mistakes:
1. Thinking you won’t have to check your bag.
“Ever been really proud of your carry-on packing job only to be forced to check it before boarding? I keep a stowaway bag (that can be a personal item) handy to stow all my in-flight essentials and anything I need to keep my eyes on for my clients.”
2. Not transferring products to travel containers.
“I’m all about travel-size products. One because I love trying new beauty products and two because the idea of transferring my full-size products into plastic travel containers sounds like a messy, wasteful endeavor. I can’t fathom wasting product! Instead, I shop for minis and travel sizes from brands I use and trust.”
3. Wasting space.
“I pack for shoots, fittings, and for clients for a living and one of the biggest errors is not utilizing dead space when packing. A T-shirt, undergarments, or socks can easily be stuffed in a or around a pair of shoes. It’s key to take advantage of every inch of that carry-on! Packing cubes are also essential to organizing by item and keeping wasted space to a minimum.”
Tips:
1. Buy mini-size products.
“I shop for mini versions of my favorite products at Sephora online, but I also just popped into the Fresh store and got a bunch of mini-size products and samples with my purchase. All under three ounces., compact enough for TSA, and perfect to travel and try.”
2. Bring a fold-up bag.
“A stowaway bag is key for last-minute checks and for any overflow you may have on the return trip. Longchamp makes many great options with different handle lengths that fold up compact, Paravel has a sportier option with its own pouch, and I never travel without an LL Bean boat and tote that folds up flat.”
3. Put your jewelry in a pouch.
“I send my clients all over the world with this handy little jewelry pouch! It keeps your precious pieces tangle free, organized, and in one place so you can throw into your hotel safe and not worry!”
Mistakes:
1. Packing all large items in your suitcase.
“Instead of packing bulkier items such as jackets and knits, it is always best to wear them on your flight. It will give you extra packing space and keep you warm on a chilly flight! Plus it is always a good idea to pack layers.”
2. Forgetting to pack an extra outfit.
“I recently started packing a back-up outfit for emergencies and the dreaded moment of the flight attendant asking you to check your carry-on.”
3. Make sure all your clothing can be mixed and matched.
“The best way to fit all of your clothing into a carry-on is to make sure all of the items can be reworked for multiple outfits.”
Tips:
1. Roll everything.
“Roll up or fold everything vertically to help maximize luggage space.”
2. Use a hat clip.
“Use a hat clip! Instead of trying to fit a hat into your bag or wearing multiple on your head during your flight, a hat clip holds your hats in place on your carry-on.”
Traveling is designed to bring about excitement as opposed to stress. Sure, you have to pay an alarming amount for a taxi to the airport, get through security without your belt or a 4 oz. bottle of perfume setting off the alarms, and sit in a tube for an annoyingly long period of time (no matter how far you’re traveling). But once you actually make it to your destination, the good times should roll. There’s only one problem: If you don’t pack well, they won’t—period.
Luckily, there are experts for that. “If I am an expert in anything, I swear it’s packing,” says Monica Mendal, a writer, editor, and consultant who traded in fashion for travel about five years ago. “Growing up, my dad never let us check bags so I learned how to travel light from an early age,” she explains. “Believe it or not, it is possible to go one month with just a carry-on—and I’m a fashion girl. I love fashion!” She’d know. She’s done it plenty of times. According to Mendal, she travels for more than half of the year. “I think an easier question to answer would be how often am I home?”
To find out from the best about what to always pack for a successful travel experience, Mendal shared her tried-and-true packing list.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Traveling is a big part of life for most entrepreneurs. As an artist and owner of a business that specializes in niche marketing and PR, I need to be presentable no matter where I am. Traveling is a huge part of what I do, both for business and pleasure. I do work from anywhere and everywhere: Whether it’s in a camper or a fancy hotel lobby, on a ski lift, at a bar or even when I’m at my grandma’s house for a family dinner.
I’d like to share a few tips that have helped me eliminate challenges and enabled me to focus no matter where I am. As we like to say in German, udbung macht den Meister, which means “exercise makes a master” — learning by doing is surely the way to go. Here are some insider tips to make your life easier:
Keep your things clean and organized. This will allow you to find exactly what you’re looking for faster, so you can keep focused on the task at hand instead of getting distracted by searching for something you’ve lost. Reorganize your travel bag, backpack or computer bag every day. It will take only a few minutes if you do it regularly.
2. Create a short but solid to-do list
Airports, business meetings, packing, unpacking, scheduling calls, trying to get some sleep and still look decent can get chaotic. Make a to-do list of things that must be done in just the next 12 hours, not more. Don’t overdo it. Create that list every night, and put it out next to your phone or laptop so that it is the first thing in the morning that you see. Keep it around you all day until you are done with it. For example, your daily list might look something like this:
Unwanted mail, advertisements and things of that nature can be an annoying challenge and create clutter. You can make a daily contribution to sustainability by using the opened envelopes from the mail you receive to create your to-do lists each day. I like to use orange or purple ink to write my lists — there’s more on the reason behind that in the next section.
3. Understand the environmental impacts on your brain while working
An understanding of colors and how the overall environment subconsciously affects your mood and wellness is crucial if you want to be able to work more efficiently anywhere, at any time. Regarding colors and their typical effects, some of the most uplifting and motivating, yet not overstimulating colors include green, purple and orange — hence, my choice of ink colors referenced above. Blue is known to calm the senses but can perhaps make you too calm and possibly trigger depression. Red is often associated with anger or aggression. The precise effects of color on each individual depend on their personal circumstances, so it’s best to conduct some research based on your own needs.
Studies have shown that exposure to nature benefits mental health and reduces stress. Depending on where you find yourself, put yourself in a position where you have a view of something that is either relaxing or neutral, not overstimulating. For example, a mellow restaurant or coffee shop with an outdoor patio area (preferably) that has a view of the majestic Pacific Ocean would be relaxing (as long as the surf does not look too scary that day!) When I was recently on the exotic island of Kauai in Hawaii, I chose a view of the volcano canyon which encompassed the beautiful rain forest with an entire color palette of greens.
When in New York City, there are many designer boutique hotels with great décor and colorful art in the lobbies. You don’t need to stay there to work there. The surroundings have a mood-elevating effect. Or you could bring the work to a museum; for example, a place such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art inspires me to be more creative.
5. Find the right environment for you
Art has a huge impact on mental health and stress reduction. Different images, paintings, photographs or sculptures can affect you in multiple ways. Once again, the colors play a very important role as well. If you are in a tight spot, facing a time constraint or an imminent deadline, try to stay away from the color red as it tends to bring up negative feelings. On the other hand, if you feel down or are experiencing low energy, the color red can help in a smaller dose. For example, you could wear a red t-shirt or set up a red screen protector. Choose blue or purple for more creativity and mellowness. Purple also helps enhance problem-solving skills, orange supports optimism, and green fosters a sense of harmony. Avoid images that could trigger stress or those that might bring up bad memories. If the art or the color in your immediate environment is creating issues for you, set yourself up elsewhere in the room.
6. Use reminders to improve your focus
Use a tool as a gentle reminder to keep you in a focused working mode. It could be anything, such as a sticker on your laptop that shares a positive message or even some uplifting words on the mug that’s by your side. A nice little notebook that could also be used for the above-mentioned to-do list can be easy to consult. Additionally, you can write down some thoughts and reminders to “tune out” from all that surrounds you. Sometimes it can be good to put yourself into working mode by creating a pleasant bubble and keeping the outside world out of it.
The influence of various intensities of Hz sound waves on the ability to concentrate or focus has been demonstrated in various recent studies. When music was tuned to 432 Hz as opposed to 440 Hz, the subjects of the study showed a marked decrease in heart rate and slight decreases in both the respiratory rate and blood pressure. Experimenting with different wavelengths of music and sound or listening to recordings of the ocean or other natural sounds can relax you and help you to focus on the tasks at hand.
Studies have shown that taking control of your breath and using meditation can have major positive impacts on your brain and on your entire body. These methods are being employed in schools around the world to elevate the concentration of students before class. What I like to do, throughout the day, is to take three deep breaths to supply the brain with fresh oxygen; if you desire, you can conduct a short meditation session while you are doing the breathing exercises.
Wrap up your day
Remember to cross items off the to-do list as they are completed. This elevates your sense of accomplishment and is also very satisfying. Be sure to write down the next steps for follow-up actions you need to take so that when you next pick up your work, you can start exactly where you left off. These little things can all make a big difference to your productivity at the office, whether at home or away!
Planning for a vacation is always challenging, especially since you want to arrive at your destination looking polished and fresh. Although, this can prove to be a nearly impossible task when all your clothes have gotten wrinkled in your suitcase. Who has time for steaming, ironing, or dry cleaning when you have places to go and people to see upon reaching your destination?
Lucky for you, the solution is simple. All you need to do is familiarize yourself with the best wrinkle-free fabrics and keep them in mind the next time you’re shopping or packing for a trip. Even fabrics that do tend to wrinkle (e.g., cotton, rayon, and silk) are much less likely to do so when blended with one of the fabrics below. Scroll down to see and shop stylish, travel-friendly pieces to pack for your next trip.
I didn’t always travel this much, but between my semi-recent move to NY (with the bulk of my family still residing in L.A.), an unusual number of destination weddings, the occasional vacation or work trip and more, I’ve somehow managed to rack up quite the number of frequent flyer miles. While my sinuses may hate me for it, but there are some definite upsides to having taken that many flights in recent years—including but not limited to all the lessons I’ve learned in packing ever since.
From the best way to pack your clothes to the one major mistake I spent most of my life making to today’s topic, the best and worst things to pack in general, I’m always game to share my tips because, well, I guess it’s kind of my job. Just keep scrolling to read about the things you should never pack and, of course, shop what should make it into your suitcase instead.
Summer may be nearing its end, but there’s one thing that will most likely not be changing anytime soon—the pent-up demand for travel. After an extended amount of time spent at home, it’s safe to say people were ready to go somewhere again. That destination depended upon what you were craving. It could have been a buzzy destination, a low-key weekend spot, or a new place to go dance in town. Whatever the case, it’s crystal clear that we wanted to be back outside, and we wanted to dress up again. Nothing speaks more to that desire than two facts: the reports about record-breaking summer air travel and the extensive number of vacation posts from the fashion set. Travel was top of mind for everyone this past summer, but if you couldn’t partake, there’s still a chance this fall. With plane-ticket prices slowly decreasing and the prospect of fun fall trends, there’s no better time to take a trip than now. Of course, traveling now is still a ton of work—knowing where to go, how to stay safe, what to pack, and how to avoid baggage-claim drama. But you don’t have to stress, as we’ve reached out to seven stylish and well-traveled women, who are sharing their packing hacks. They’ve covered all the bases, from the most common packing mistakes to avoid to the fall staples that are worth the space in your suitcase. So fasten your seat belts, readers. It’s time for takeoff…
WHO: Jullie Jeine, content creator and travel enthusiast. How would you describe your style? I would say my style is modern yet classic. I like wearing everyday staple pieces with a twist, such as different textures or interesting shapes and cuts. What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation? There are three common packing mistakes, the first being overpacking. One way to avoid this is by knowing where you’re going and what the vibe is and then packing accordingly. The second common mistake is solely packing single-use pieces. For instance, I love prints, but I’ll always make sure to have core pieces that I can style and pair differently throughout my trip. I promise that rewearing the same trousers on different IG posts is totally okay.
And lastly, I’d say not packing a small iron or steamer is a mistake. I can pack the most amazing outfits, but if I wear wrinkly clothes, I won’t have the same confidence level.
Do you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling? I swear by doing two things, the first being that I’ll plan my outfits by creating a Pinterest board with realistic outfit ideas. And secondly, I’ll go straight to my closet and check how I can create new looks with the things I already own because buying less and cherishing your clothes really is a superpower. From there, I can choose what I want to treat myself to and invest in.
For those of us who are dreaming of planning a trip for the fall and winter, are there any staples you swear by, and why do you swear by them?
A structured and slightly oversize blazer because you can layer underneath, making you look put-together instantly. Also, a neutral maxi skirt because it’s also elongating and super chic.
Can you share what you’ve been eyeing for your next trip or pieces you wore and loved?
I am a big fan of textures such as mohair, denim, pleats, faux leather… You name it. So for my next trip, I want to invest in a statement trench coat.
A good pair of baggy jeans just looks effortlessly cool and is the perfect piece to pack for a fall trip.
Lastly, for any fall trip, you need a pair of boots that are made for going all out.I love these square-toe ankle boots from Miista. The khaki-green patent is beautiful, and the stitching details are definitely eye-catching.
WHO: Anna Campbell, content creator. How would you describe your style? I would best describe my style as classy, comfortable, and always current. I have noticed over recent years that my style has become the most minimal than it has ever been. What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation? I think the most common mistake when packing is bringing unnecessary items. Sometimes, the more you bring with you, the harder it is to dress. We all have the “ah, I’ll just bring that too” attitude at times. It’s very easy to overthink outfits. So I like to keep it simple and stick to key pieces that can be styled in numerous ways.
Do you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling? On my recent weeklong holiday to Greece, I took a carry-on case with me to dodge any luggage problems at the airports. I really shocked myself because I could fit seven evening outfits, seven swimsuits, and numerous cover-ups into one carry-on.
As for footwear, I took with me a small block heel that worked for every evening look and, of course, my trusty Havaianas flip-flops for daytime. This was the best way to travel, and everything I brought was worn!
For those of us who are dreaming of planning a trip for the fall and winter, are there any staples you swear by, and why do you swear by them?
If I was planning a trip for the fall, my go-to piece of packing or wearing while traveling is a blazer, preferably an oversize blazer, as you can layer with a sweater or knitwear. A blazer, for me, doubles up as a layer during the day and is a smart add-on for dinner or evening plans.
I almost always take my longline leather jacket with me for a winter trip. I picked it up in a local vintage store where I live a few years back but have recently seen some online. I find it has such a “Julia Roberts meets Notting Hill” vibe with a beret, and I can’t get enough of it!
Can you share what you’ve been eyeing for your next trip?
One lustrous item for me is Frankie Shop’s trousers. I love wide-leg trousers paired with an oversize sweater, a fine polo, and boots. It’s probably my favorite, most-worn winter look and a must-have for my next trip.
A more recent purchase I made was the infamous Birkenstock Boston Clog in brown with fur. I have the taupe suede version, and I wear them so often. I knew a second pair would give me a variable option, and they’re the ideal shoe to pack for a winter weekend getaway.
WHO: Richlove Rockson, plus-size fashion content creator. How would you describe your style? My style is very colorful, fun, and chic. I especially love experimenting and trying out different color combos! What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation? The biggest packing mistake is not planning your outfits for your vacation and then realizing once you’re there that either the pieces you chose don’t go well together or you don’t know how to combine them.
Do you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling? When packing, I always put together full looks before leaving. This is so practical because it saves a lot of time, so while I’m at my destination, I don’t have to worry about what I’m going to wear. I can just throw something on and enjoy being there. I can not sing higher praises for packing this way for any trip.
For those of us who are dreaming of planning a trip for the fall and winter, are there any staples you swear by, and why do you swear by them?
Definitely a black blazer. It’s so versatile and always looks good. Whether you want to go on a night out, explore the city, or go for a walk, it works for any occasion. You can pair it with a skirt, wide trousers, shorts, jeans—there are so many options!
Can you share what you’ve been eyeing for your next trip?
When it comes to traveling, a tote bag is always useful. I dream of taking this Dior tote bag on my next vacation.
I recently bought a pair of these Versace glasses and, of course, wore them on my vacation in NYC. It’s definitely worth investing in a pair of designer shades for any upcoming trip.
Dreaming of wearing this for a trip to Dubai on New Year’s Eve!!
I’m planning a trip to Paris in a few weeks and have been looking for pieces to pack. I love the simplicity and color of this jumpsuit. It screams, “Take me to Paris.”
WHO: Rabia Cissokho, content creator. How would you describe your style? When I moved from New Zealand to London in 2019, I transitioned from an eclectic style to a more minimal-chic aesthetic with predominantly monochrome with nude tones. I’m definitely a fan of keeping things simple now regarding my personal style. What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation? There are quite a few common mistakes when it comes to packing for a trip, the first being leaving it to the night before to pack for your trip. It creates unnecessary stress for yourself and leads to overpacking or not planning outfits properly.
Another common mistake is packing shoesamong the clothing in your suitcase. It’s a big no-no because it can inadvertently ruin your clothing, so investing in packing bags is essential.
And lastly, forgetting to pack essentials like hand sanitizer, lip balm, and hydrating face mask.
Do you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling? For me, it’s all about being comfortable but chic at the same time. When rushing around the airport, you want to wear something light and breathable, but also be prepared with a layering option in your carry-on luggage when the airplane takes off.
For those of us who are dreaming of planning a trip for the fall and winter, are there any staples you swear by, and why do you swear by them?
For me, fall and winter are jacket seasons, so a coat is a must if you’re planning a trip during this time. Preferably, you’d opt for an oversize and monochrome version because it can be styled with different outfits easily.
Can you share what you’ve been eyeing for your next trip or pieces you wore and loved?
I can’t think of a better piece to wear on your flight than a matching knit set. It’s all about glam loungewear.
Comfort is key when traveling, and this chic slipper is the perfect shoe to wear for a long flight.
WHO: Amelia Wilkinson, content creator. How would you describe your style in a sentence or two? I think I’d describe my style as effortless and classic while still being fun and trendy. What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation? Packing too much is definitely the most common mistake. I’ve been guilty of doing it myself. I always try to pack about three outfits per day for while I’m away and then end up wearing one thing each day, and the extra clothes end up just being a waste of space.
Another common packing mistake is not folding clothes properly. When I’m going on holiday, I fold and roll everything so neatly so it fits perfectly, and then on the way home, it all just gets thrown in randomly and doesn’t fit, and I inevitably have to spend even more time repacking it all properly. So take your time to pack neatly, and when in doubt, invest in packing cubes.
Do you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling? The number one thing I think of when I’m planning a trip is footwear. In summer, I have a bit more leeway with it, as flip-flops and strappy heels take up so little room, but if I’m going away when it’s a bit colder, shoes are bulkier and need to be planned more carefully. I try to be as ruthless as possible and only take shoes that I’ll wear a few times, and I try not to take things that fall into the same category (e.g., one pair of trainers and one pair of boots).
For those of us who are dreaming of planning a trip for the fall and winter, are there any staples you swear by, and why do you swear by them?
I always, always, always pack a good white T-shirt, no matter the season or the destination. They go with everything and are such a good backup if the outfit you’ve planned in your head doesn’t quite work the way you thought it would.
Specifically for autumn and winter trips, I always like to pack a good coat or jacket. Depending on where you’re going, the weather can be unpredictable, and you don’t want to be left unprepared and have to panic-buy one when you’re there.
Can you share what you’ve been eyeing for your next trip or pieces you wore and loved?
I’m going to Copenhagen this month and have been eyeing up so many pieces to take with me. I’ve managed to steer clear of the cowboy-boot trend so far, but I’m not exaggerating when I say I’m absolutely obsessed with these Ganni ones. I think their height is perfect, and the embroidery is absolutely beautiful. Maybe I’ll pop in to see them in real life when I’m in Copenhagen.
The surge of denim skirts I’ve seen all over my Instagram and TikTok has influenced me to the point where I might have to take the plunge and pack it for my next trip.
WHO: Hafsah Mohammed, content creator. How would you describe your style? I would describe my style as statement-making, elevated, and timeless. What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation? Not planning your outfits in advance. It can lead to chronic over- or underpacking and can take away precious time that could be spent enjoying your destination.
Do you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling? Before I start packing, I put complete looks together down to the accessories, I take a photo of each look, and then I pack them. That way, I have an outfit planned for every activity. This saves me from overpacking things I won’t need on my trip. It also helps me save time while I’m on vacation.
For those of us who are dreaming of planning a trip for the fall and winter, are there any staples you swear by, and why do you swear by them?
I swear by packing at least one dress (or a jumpsuit) that is the statement piece. But I want to remind everyone that you want to take pieces that will photograph well and are functional for your trip.
I recommend you opt for statement pieces made from comfortable fabrics like cotton, linen, satin, and plissé. It will ensure you look great and feel great throughout your trip.
In the fall and winter, I also recommend you invest in a statement coat to wear on your trip. It will keep you warm as you explore your destination, and you’ll look chic in all your photos.
Can you share what you’ve been eyeing for your next trip or pieces you wore and loved?
I recently wore this plissé jumpsuit from a small brand, Orire, and loved it. It’s the ideal piece to pack for a vacation because it’s chic and cozy.
I wore a hat from the South African designer Crystal Birch on a recent trip to Turkey, and it was 100% worth the space in the suitcase. A hat can elevate an outfit and protect you from the scorching summer sun simultaneously, so it’s a must-pack for any trip.
WHO: Luena Gama, marketing director and digital creator . How would you describe your style? In my book, more is more! I am a big fan of colors, layers, and accessories. I think my style can be described as bright and eclectic with a hint of cottagecore influence. (I love a good prairie-dress moment.) . What do you think are the most common packing mistakes for vacation? Overpacking always seems to be the bane of holidaygoers. Packing what you like rather than what you’ll actually use is usually what leads to you having too few pairs of underwear and six pairs of shoes you know deep down you won’t wear!
Do you have one hack you swear by when discerning what to wear while traveling? Planning your outfits beforehand and making sure they are versatile is key! Usually, I will pick a color theme or a style I’m into and pick pieces that can be styled in various ways or layered if necessary with that theme in mind. I’ll try every outfit before packing as well so I can make sure that everything fits and feels comfortable.
My best hack, though, is taking pictures of every single outfit before I pack it all. Having reference pictures means you have a cheat sheet of sorts for your best looks, which means you spend less time trying to figure out what to wear and more time enjoying your holiday!
For those of us who are dreaming of planning a trip for the fall and winter, are there any staples you swear by, and why do you swear by them?
Get yourself a flowy maxi dress! A maxi dress is a super-comfortable way of making a statement, allowing you to style it with various pieces.
Once you invest in a great maxi dress, you can style it a few ways—you can go from comfy chic with a pair of trainers to a more glam look by adding a blazer or heels.
Can you share what you’ve been eyeing for your next trip or pieces you wore and loved?
Stine Goya maximalist knits have my heart. I adore the bold colors and effortless maximalism of their winter pieces, and it’s the ideal cardigan to pack for a trip.
A good blazer helps elevate any autumn outfit, and I’ve been loving this staple in warm, earthy tones. Like all great staples, this piece, and any blazer, makes for the ideal piece to pack for upcoming vacations because it’s beloved by many and can be worn anywhere in the world.
New video training site helps travelers manage finance and build credit while maximizing reward programs.
Press Release –
Oct 1, 2016
GRAND FORKS, UNITED STATES, October 1, 2016 (Newswire.com)
– PointsPro Travel LLC is pleased to announce the launch of MileLoop.com; a premier destination for discount travel education.
MileLoop was created by a team of university students and graduates with background in Aviation, Marketing and Business- and a desire to make travel affordable for anyone, while also educating students on building and maintaining good credit and financial habits. They are tenants at the University of North Dakota’s Center for Innovation- an on-campus tech incubator.
We believe there a number of ways to take advantage of deals and offers from airlines, credit card companies and hotels that can drastically reduce the cost of a trip. Our goal is to relay this information to everyone in an engaging way.
Thomas Crowell, Founder and CEO
MileLoop’s unique, fast-paced and engaging video courses present a streamlined overview on some of the most vital information needed to save on travel. They are backed by years of research and experience, and come with full transcriptions, handouts and content based quizzes to ensure information is retained.
Students who purchase a course receive lifetime access to the course’s content, as well as a membership into an exclusive community of like-minded students and on staff travel professionals. During the initial lunch period, courses are available as low as $29. Memberships can be purchased by visiting the company’s website- mileloop.com.
For more information, please contact thomas@mileloop.com
