Traveling Tips
by Ginna Gemmell

Here are some travel tips I have gathered during more than 20 years "in the air" and "on the road".

• Plan first. Think of each event in which you will be involved and select an appropriate outfit. Then streamline. If you are attending similar events with different people take one suit and have the hotel press it for you. Match coordinates to extend outfits (e.g. jacket with dress and slacks).

• Packing light, by choosing a color theme for clothing will enable you to look beautiful for each event without having to carry your entire closet.

• Carry valuables and important work with you in a good looking briefcase.

• Take everything in miniature (e.g. cosmetics, flashlight, telephone, daily planner, I-Pod, etc.) Keeping items small and light lets you carry more without the strain. Also, check current TSA regulations for carry-on items so that you can sail through security at the airport.
  

• Pack outfits together in your suitcase, layering each with a plastic dry cleaning bag (NOTE: must be free of any toxic scent) preventing wrinkling enroute and protecting them from dampness if your bags are "handled in a rain storm". Alternatively, tissue paper may be substituted for the plastic dry cleaning bags; however, this requires more time.

• Fly Direct and rent a car with a GPS system to reduce travel time and stress, or, better yet take the train and taxi if you can. Store all travel documents in an envelope or case that can be quickly located.
  
•  Get there early and forget "just in time".    Get to the airport two hours ahead and book your flight to arrive a few hours ahead of your schedule.  You will reduce the stress on yourself by not pushing travel systems and staff faster than they can go.
  

• Including a snack, like energy bars or raisins, in your bag will ensure you won't faint from hunger if you get delayed or stranded enroute.

• If you travel to the same city repeatedly, stay in the same hotel. You will feel as though you are at your home away from home and the staff will treat you like a friend.

• Pack some of your favorite little pleasures (e.g. a special tea, a magazine you haven't read, a paperback novel, or whatever you enjoy).

• Take your vitamins with you and don't skip! Keep up with your exercise routine and skip the big dinners after 7pm. Use your downtime to nourish yourself and to compensate for the rigors of travel.

• Take a nap on the airplane if you have an opportunity!

• Smile. It makes everything easier while increasing the probability you will get the attention you need.

.· See the Lavender Green Travel Collection