ARE WE READY TO START TRAVELING? GUEST COMMENTARY

July 6, 2021

Are You Ready to Start Traveling? Three Questions to Ask Yourself

July 7, 2021

Although it’s been a while since we were last able to brandish our passports at the airport or take out our nice luggage for a spin, increased vaccinations and a slowly-rebuilding economy is putting travel points, destinations, and hacks back on the map for many Americans.

Lake Louise, Canadian Rockies joannedibonaphotography.com

After what feels like living a few years below ground, COVID-19 restrictions and lockdown measures are finally easing up as more people get vaccinated across the country, and nations begin to explicitly open up their borders for leisure travel.

It makes you wonder: Am I ready to start traveling?

To help you decide, we’ve gathered three short questions to help you determine the best approach to retake your anticipated travel plans.

Question #1

Am I fully vaccinated?

Quite surprisingly, the U.S. predicts around 53% of their population will be vaccinated at least once by early July, but many Americans continue to have doubts about the safety of the vaccines.

The CDC recommends delaying all unnecessary travel, including leisure and business travel, and to take full precautions when traveling due to reasons outside your control until you are fully vaccinated. The same is true for travelers bound to or from Europe.

COVID-19 has disrupted the way we go about our business, from commuting to grocery shopping, having dinner, and traveling. This just to say: Businesses are doing their best to adapt to a very fragile and complicated public health situation and we should try to understand that.

Yes—it is frustrating that it’s been so long since we last set foot on foreign land, but we’re okay. We’ve made it. Now it’s just a matter of asking ourselves:

Question #2

Do I have a plan?

Do you know where you want to go? Before choosing a destination and setting a date for your adventures, do some research, read up on any official COVID-19 response statements emitted by the country’s government to ensure a smooth entry with little to no setbacks.

© Joanne DiBona Photography joannedibonaphotography.com

Over the course of the pandemic, almost half of people worldwide have put their travel plans on hold, and a similar amount have outright cancelled their trips and asked for rain checks for fear of catching the virus in the air. Airlines have continuously reassured us that properly ventilated airplanes pose a minimal risk to passengers as long as they are fully-vaccinated, wear masks, and keep a safe distance from other passengers, although traveling is not 100% safe still.

While most of us have no problem with staying put a little while longer until things get better, many people have a necessity to travel due to business, health, or family emergencies.

Though the outlook isn’t very clear, having a solid backup strategy is essential during this period.

Question #3

Can I wait a little longer?

Diving back into travel after such a long time doesn’t just feel like a lot, it is!

There are many questions on traveler’s minds right now, and a lot of the uncertainty brought on by COVID has made people hesitant to travel if they can agree to wait a little longer—which means a lot of us have been putting it off for a few months, too many!

But waiting a bit can actually have a positive effect on your overall trip, if you can dispose of some time to plan and budget accordingly.

For those who want to take some extra months to save up for their trips, now might be a good time to start clearing off items from your credit report, so that when the time comes, you can use a rewards card to make the most of your expenses abroad.

A few more months of waiting can help you save an additional couple hundred dollars to play with when you finally set sail, and that extra time can be put to good use by researching your destination fully and finding the best green alternatives to enjoy on your travels.

Joanne's Product Reviews for Travel and Comfort

October 6, 2020

Even though most pleasure travel has been temporarily put on hold, it’s time to give some thought of what you are going to pack in your carry-on-only bag to make your adventures in post-Covid times worry-free.

I also hope you enjoy this website, intentionally FREE OF ADS, for a relaxing and undisturbed viewing experience.

IF THE SHOE FITS

Walk on Air—In Recycled Plastics

You’ve got to love a shoe manufacturer whose goal is to create every shoe from recycled materials. That being said, when those shoes turn out to be the most comfortable pair you’ve ever owned, that makes this recommendation even more meaningful.

This was the experience my husband reported when he slipped into his pair of The Jamie, one of several styles offered by the innovative company THIRD MIND. As frequent travelers who pack carry-on only to tour the world, shoes are perhaps the most important part of our wardrobe. This attractive shoe looks good enough to wear for business or formal occasions and is comfortable enough to trek through the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Did I mention these shoes are extremely lightweight, eliminate odors, and save roughly 20 water bottles from going into landfills and waterways? To boot, the soles are made with 30% recycled rubber from tires!

When my husband says he feels as if he is “walking on air” in these shoes, he means it! The company has plans to launch a women’s collection, and I will be first in line to seek out my ultimate shoe fetish—an attractive dress shoe that fits like a sneaker and allows me to roam the world all day in style and comfort.

Third Mind’s philosophy and tagline, using recycled parts to help knit the world whole—step by step, says it all.

Slip into a Socially-Conscious Slipper

Since we are on the subject of socially conscious shoe companies—and winter will be at our doorstep before we know it—you might want to consider the NAUSENI natural wool and leather collection of slippers. The company was created to help employ women in Nepal with handcrafting slippers inspired by their cultural heritage.

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These slippers are unisex and ladies may have to step down a size for a perfect fit. Consult their website for more information on picking the correct size for your foot. These comfortable slippers will keep you warm in winter and cool in summer, and every step you take in them will help hardworking women in under-developed countries.

ON THE ROAD

THE CABEAU PILLOW STANDS THE TEST OF TIME

After well more than ten years of carting my faithful CABEAU inflatable pillow around the world on our press travels, I thought it might be time to upgrade to a newer model. I selected the Air Evolution pillow and I can’t recommend it enough.

As with my older model, I was able to put the pillow in my purse, as it compressed to fit inside a small travel case. This new model has an additional benefit—it allows me to adjust for a perfect 360 degree support and the lightweight inflatable air core allows you to inflate or deflate to your perfect level of firmness. A welcome new “one breath” valve on the pillow allows for an almost instant inflation, eliminating the need for multiple breaths to inflate. And there’s even a convenient media pouch that holds your phone or MP3 player for hands-free listening!

Since we only travel carry-on only with restricted luggage space, this is the best option for our needs. That being said, if you are planning a road trip (which we are soon) or don’t mind carting a bit larger bag with you, the Evolution S3 is the way to go. This mother of travel pillows offers a tremendous support, which is why the company offers a “no neck pain” guarantee. It even straps to airline seat wings to prevent your head from falling forward.

PERFECT HEADPHONES FOR MANY OCCASIONS

It’s not often you find an item that is both perfect for travel as well as for home use. Well, we found it in the SleepPhones® Wireless headband.

There was nothing more annoying when we were traveling by plane than to have to cart bulky over-the-ear headphones in our carry-on. So when we discovered these compact headbands, we knew we had found the perfect travel accessory. We can easily slip them into a pocket or purse and enjoy exceptional audio throughout our long flights (they even double as eyeshades to block out ambient light)..

An added bonus is that they are perfect for sleeping at home, too. They lull you off to La-La Land and without annoying buds in your ears. While I don’t usually wear earphones at night, I am so delighted that I no longer hear the residual noise my husband’s in-ear headphones produced any longer. Blissful sleep for me, too!

They come in both wireless and wired options and offer a one-year warranty.

ORGANIC SKIN CARE FROM NZ

I’m always on the look-out for natural products to keep my complexion glowing when I am on the road covering visitor destinations around the world. That is why I can highly recommend the New Zealand-based line of Aú Natural Skinfood products I used on a recent road trip. Organic, non-toxic, cruelty-free products are the only ones that touch my face, so I was excited to review this line.

We all know hand sanitizers will be with us for years to come, and I can safely say the company’s Defend moisturizing gel sanitizer is one of the most gentle, thanks to its base of Manuka honey and aloe vera. Their Manuka honey hand cream also helps moisturize those hands chapped from constant washing and their lip balm does a wonderful job, too. My absolute favorite is their mineral powder “On the Go” Brush on Foundation with SPF 25 sunscreen protection. Just a quick sweep and my skin looks flawless—the perfect alternative to a compact.

Disclaimer: Please note that the opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own and will not receive any future compensation based on sales arising from my recommendations. My goal is to share my favorite travel tips with my followers, in an effort to improve the travel experience for us all.

JOANNE'S TRAVEL TIPS, SOME OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

June 2, 2020

MICHAELANGELO WOULD HAVE LOVED THIS PHONE CHARGER

I must admit, I am a lover of all things Italian…from cuisine to clothing to home décor.

I probably speak for many of us who are really tired of having black plastic devices litter our desks, with no regard for aesthetics and design. That’s why my eyes lit up when I learned about Eggtronic’s wireless charging stones, made out of handcrafted Italian marble. The high-powered chargers work with all Qi-enabled devices and provide fast charging up to 10W for compatible devices.

I selected a classic white marble charger, but they also come in black marble, travertine, lava and sandstone. True to its promise, my Samsung Note 9 charged quickly (even through a leather case) and without a glitch.

If you need a touch of class to embellish your desktop, this is definitely the way to go. They make practical and unique gifts, too.

GOING SOLO

…well, maybe not literally, as I usually travel with my husband and fellow photographer, Tony.

What I am referring to is the company, SOLO NEW YORK, which makes affordable and stylish bags for everyone (which gets them consistent top-rated reviews on Amazon.com).

Just to clarify, I never leave home on travel with anything but a backpack and carry-on roller (read my article on Traveling Carry-On Only to see why). That being said, it stands to reason that the backpack has to be stylish, as well as practical, to cover both business and travel needs.

This Parker Hybrid Tote exceeded my expectations. It looks like a designer bag, with its sleek form, gold zippers, and lovely black fabric. But where this bag really shines is its versatility, especially for someone on the go. I can’t travel anywhere without my 15.6” laptop and it slides perfectly into its own compartment in this tote. I’m also able to accommodate my huge make up bag, cell phone, reading glasses, and much more in the many convenient compartments this backpack offers.

AND, it is super comfortable with its fully padded back and shoulder straps. It even features a back strap to slide over your luggage handle to make your sprints through the airport and along city sidewalks so much easier.

Going SOLO was never so much fun!

NAILIN’ IT

Although I love the look of well-manicured nails, I am also very conscious about the purity of any cosmetic I use. Up until now, I’ve found it difficult to find chemical-free nail polish (let alone sealer and remover), so I’ve pretty much given up on having lovely manicured nails.

Then I learned about the SOPHi line of nail products—and was immediately sold. Free of all harsh chemicals, the water-based formula leaves nails healthy and doesn’t cause them to yellow or become brittle. As an added plus, SOPHi is vegan and cruelty free.

The system is easy to follow. First apply the primer and sealer, then 2 to 3 coats of nail polish (they have a wide spectrum of cool colors to choose from) followed by a shine topcoat and another coat of primer and sealer for extended wear. Blow dry on warm between applications—and enjoy a manicure that looks as if you just emerged from a high-end salon.

The product is endorsed by EWG (Environmental Working Group), which for years has been my source of information about the toxicity of not only cosmetics, but cleaning products we use and the food we consume in our daily lives.

MYCHELLE, MYCHOICE

And while we’re on the subject of cosmetics that rank high on EWG’s purity list, I should mention one of my favorite rejuvenating treatments, MyChelle’s G2 Instant Firming serum. I can see it plump up my skin almost immediately, especially after a long plane trip or working all day on the computer. It contains wholesome ingredients such as Goji berries and fermented pomegranate extract that seem to do the trick, with no parabens or any other toxic ingredients.

JOANNE'S TRAVEL TIPS, FOR FUTURE TRAVEL OR TO ENJOY NOW

April 13, 2020

BACKPACK IN STYLE

For those of you who have followed my “packing light” travel tips over the years, you’ll notice that a backpack is a mandatory part of my traveling arsenal. Unfortunately, I had to resign myself to not making a fashion statement as I traveled around the world on my press trip adventures.

Well, not until I discovered the chic London Backpack, by The Casery. Now I can finally travel in style, at least where my backpack is concerned.

It’s hard to make a large backpack look chic, but the London Backpack definitely does a great job. In addition to providing ample room for everything from my laptop computer and cell phone to my bulging make-up bag, I love the stunning rose gold hardware and zippers (what a classy touch) and sleek style. It even keeps my identity safe with RFID-block lining!

As a welcome extra, it has a travel-friendly sleeve on the back so you can slip the pack over your roller bag handles, making that oh-so-common airport sprint so much easier.

Did I mention it is constructed of beautiful vegan leather, available in black, grey and pink. Here’s to practicality and style in one handy pack!

THE BEAUTY IN WATERCRESS

One of my favorite salad toppings, when I can get it, is watercress.

That being said, it shouldn’t have surprised me when I learned about a new beauty product that actually uses its powerful anti-oxidant properties to develop a “Superfood Beauty Oil” with the catchy name, “Sacred Mama.”

Frequent and long travel in the dry air of airplanes, plus a pretty cold winter even here in Southern California, definitely took its toll on my complexion these past months. I am very particular about what I eat, as well as what I put on my skin, so any beauty product I buy has to be pure and free of chemicals.

When I read the ingredients on the label of Sacred Mama, I was sold. The oil combines 17 natural and organic plant-powered ingredients chock full of vitamins, enzymes and natural oils. Watercress has been known to promote the production of Type III collagen, so important in recharging one’s skin for a smooth and youthful appearance. Already after just a few weeks of daily use (4-6 drops), I’ve noticed a definite improvement. It has a wonderful aroma, too, which one would expect from all those natural oils.

As my mother wisely said, “You are what you eat.” How surprised she would be to learn the same principle applies to your daily cosmetic regime!

MY FAVORITE WATER BOTTLE FOR TRAVEL

We’ve all seen those disturbing photos of the mounds of plastic that pollute huge expanses of our oceans, which is why my family and I try to avoid all items that may end up in a landfill, or, most distressingly, in our waters.

My car trunk has an entire case filled with reusable bags of all shapes and sizes, and I’ve not asked for a plastic bag in a store for well on ten years now.

So why would I carry, and throw away, a plastic water bottle?

I don’t.

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I take a Hydaway bottle wherever I travel. First of all, it is collapsible, which means it conveniently fits in my pocket when I am going through security. Then I just take it to one of the many water stations most airports offer and fill it to the brim. When we are trekking through countries and cities on our press tours, I attach it to my back pack with a carabiner so I always have my water supply available.

As an added note, these collapsible bottles are BPA-free, taste-free, odor-free, and dishwasher safe. Do your health—and our world—some good and make this handy bottle your best friend.