Malaysia is not a country on the to-visit list of most Americans. It can be hard to get to (it’s a full day-plus-some from the West Coast), but this exotic Southeast Asia country offers some of the best value luxury experiences in the region. Set aside your preconceived notions about this predominantly Muslim country, and be prepared for some great history, cultural, shopping, art, and food experiences in this fascinating corner of the world. Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, Click here to enjoy my photo essay on this compelling value luxury travel destination. Note: I visited Malaysia in November 2014 as part of a press trip organized by Tourism Malaysia.
Read MoreEuphoria in Greenville, South Carolina
Come September, I’ll be heading to Greenville, South Carolina, for Euphoria, a weekend-long event that includes exclusive tasting events, cooking demonstrations and wine seminars, as well as multi-course dinners and live musical performances. Dedicated to excellence, euphoria features domestic and international wines, celebrity chefs, master sommeliers, and national recording artists. The annual event shines a spotlight on Greenville, South Carolina’s thriving Culinary and Arts Communities. Greenville, situated at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stands out with its award-winning downtown, vast entertainment options, and diverse population. And as a charitable organization, Euphoria gives back to the community that supports it, with all net profits providing sustenance to those in need, providing educational opportunities, and supporting children. And what about Greenville? Centrally located along I-85 between the long-standing Southern urban centers of Atlanta, GA and Charlotte, NC. Greenville and […]
Read MoreIf You Hate Camping, Try Glamping
I’ve tried camping, more than just a few times, and no matter how committed I’ve been to the process, it’s just not my cup of tea. I’ve tried tent camping. Hiking and carrying all the gear on my back is a whole lot of work, only to be followed by a whole lot more work to pitch a tent. Sleeping in a wet, rainy tent, on cold rocky ground, is just not my idea of a great weekend. I hate being cold, and here in the Pacific Northwest, I’ve shivered around a campfire to stay warm (I’m talking about you Baker Lake, and in August). Hot dogs are not my idea of a great dinner, and there are only so many s’mores that a girl can eat. Granted, some good red wine will help the cause, but it’s not going […]
Read MoreSummer Travel Reading
I’ve had a Kindle since the very first generation was released. It’s served me well (although I do have my eye on upgrading to the Kindle Paperwhite), allowing me to carry all the books I’d like to read for a little under half a pound. Compare that with the weight and bulk of carrying around a book or two – or a dozen when I’d head to Europe for a few weeks – and it makes practical packing sense. Don’t get me wrong, I still love the heft of a real book and the feel of real paper, but my back and shoulders appreciate my efforts to lighten the load when I’m on the road. I’ve recently discovered that my local public library offers Kindle books on loan, and it’s an inexpensive way to catch up on a lot of […]
Read MorePostcard from the Vancouver Waterfront
I’m enjoying a little road trip, courtesy of Toursim Vancouver and the Bolt Bus. It’s a non-stop 24-hour trip to Vancouver, full of activity, food, and beverage. I’m thinking of it as a little sampler of things I need to come back to see and do. This was how I greeted the morning, looking out at the water from my room at the Fairmont Waterfront. Great way to start a spring day.
Read MoreHotel Review: Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Malaysia
Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Address: Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Penang, Malaysia. About a 45 minute drive from the Penang airport, and about a 20 minute drive from Georgetown. Value Luxury Rating: (out of 3) Features: The 5-star Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa is set on 30-acres of beachfront and boasts gardens featuring over 133,000 varieties of plants, trees, and shrubs. Regional artwork can be found located around the grounds and interior spaces. Accommodations are situated in two wings, the family friendly Garden Wing (189 rooms) and the exclusive Rasa Wing (115 rooms). Decor in both is a traditional Malay style blended with contemporary chic, with every modern convenience worked in. Rooms feature the expected upsale amenities (bath products from L’Occitane), air conditioning, wifi, and more. The resort has three swimming pools (one adult only), a par 3 pitch-and-putt golf course […]
Read MoreTravel Product Review: Tamagear Mid Layer
Tamagear Mid Layer Jacket Product: Perfect Mid Layer Jacket from Tamagear MJ Rating: (of three hearts) Features: Tamagear’s Mid Layer Jacket is a new production item. It’s soft, comfortable and stylish, and was designed with both fashion and practicality in mind. Made of a polyester/spandex blend, it features four strategically located pockets. It serves as a great mid-layer on those cold days when a heavier coat would be required and layering is a must, but is a perfect lightweight “only” layer on cool, but not cold, days. What I thought: I’m the person that’s always cold. Friends may be in shorts and a t-shirt, but I’m the one carrying a sweater. And since I frequently have to pack for widely varying weather – Hawaii and New York in winter time – I need clothes that layer and do double duty. […]
Read MoreWorld Map Update: Greece
I’m back from from five days in Greece, my first visit to that Mediterranean country, and I see now why so many people talk about how wonderful it is. From the coastal scenery to the historical sites, from the stunningly blue water to the delicious local cuisine, Greece captured my attention and wouldn’t let it go. Although this was a short visit, and I didn’t get to see many of the sights, I’m looking forward to a return trip – and a longer one – in October for TBEX. Here’s an updated map of where in the world I’ve visited. Looking forward to filling in a few more spots later in the year. Create your own travel map – TravBuddy
Read MoreTravel Product Review: Zensah Compression Socks
Compression Socks from Zensah Product: Tech+ Compression Socks from Zensah Rating: Features: Zensah Argyle Compression Socks provide for increased circulation and decreased recovery time by utilizing advanced graduated compression in each pair of argyle compression socks. Moisture wicking keeps the socks dry, and a padded toe and heel make them comfy. A graduated compression provides increased oxygenated blood flow and decreased recovery time from athletic activities. The compression socks are made in Italy. What I thought: Make no mistake about it, I am not an athlete and I don’t pretend to be one, but when I saw these compression socks I thought they’d be great for traveling. There’s been plenty written about the advantages of compression hose/socks while flying, so I won’t go into here, and these Zensah socks caught my eye because they cute (c’mon pink and black […]
Read MoreTravel Product Review: Comfy Commuter Travel Pillow
Comfy Commuter has the Travel Pillow of Your Dreams Product: Comfy Commuter Travel Pillow Value Luxury Rating: (2 out of 3) Features: The Comfy Commuter travel pillow is made of soft plush and designed to create a space at the base of your neck so that your head is not forced forward into an uncomfortable position. The pillow extends up past the ears to support your head on both sides. An optional chin strap can be used to keep your head from slipping through the front when in use. The washable pillow has a side pocket for your iPod or phone and an attached bag for easy storage. What I thought: Let’s face it — I don’t usually travel with a travel pillow because I’m betting on that upgrade to business class and the lie flat seats! Alas, that doesn’t happen all the time and […]
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