Taschen's Simple Diary

Let me guess... you'd love to keep a journal, but you just don't know where to begin? We might be a band of crazy gypsy writers, but we also know a thing or two about writer's block. That's where Taschen’s first text book, Simple Diary™, comes in handy. The Diary offers a creative way to journal, with a slightly outrageous spin. Art Book publisher Benedikt Taschen’s latest release by renowned artist and author, Philipp Keel, is a curious collection of fill-in-the-blanks, multiple-choice, word associations and lists that give readers the “simple tools” to create unique, memorable daily records without all the heavy lifting of blank journals. This unique diary is Taschen’s first release primarily filled with text which Taschen describes as, “a book that provides us with a little comfort in difficult times.” Illuminating thought starters, queries and illustrations enable the reader/creator to explore, navigate and document the chaotic adventure that is life. Unlike traditional journaling, Simple Diary™ is designed to take the pressure out of journaling by providing boundaries to help the reader get to the essence of his/her day, week or moment. Simply stated, in a time of information overload, Simple Diary™ is the antidote to the modern age.

$15.00

Available in stores on June 20, you can get in your pre-order by visiting:

www.simplediary.com

Travel-Sized Skincare Set: KaplanMD

Finding the right travel-sized face products isn’t easy, we should know. We have sensitive skin that goes nuts during our international travels. One minute we're dry, the next minute, we're oily. So, as we ready for our summer jaunt to the Middle East (and attempt to cram all of our face products into one bag), we came across Beverly Hills Dermatologist, Dr. Stuart Kaplan, M.D. who has created the kaplanMD Travel Kit for times just like this. The kaplanMD Travel Kit contains all the products in the kaplanMD skincare collection in smaller sizes. You have his gentle Cleansing Lotion, Revitalizing Toner, Day Cream SPF 15, Replenishing Night Cream, and Perfecting Serum. The products can last anywhere from 2-3 weeks and won’t irritate your skin like those cheap over-the-counter products.

In short, we give it two cheekbones and a clear chin’s up.

Retails for $75

www.kaplanmd.com

Juicy Couture's "Pink Passport" Sale

Everyone secretly knows… if you want to truly be comfortable traveling on a plane, you wear your Juicy lounge pants. With classic loungewear, fragrances, accessories, and haute couture, after ten + years in the biz, Juicy is still the go-to favorite among slinky celebs and soccer moms.

As a tribute to their love of the jaunt, they’ve lovingly announced the launch of their "Pink Passport" travel-inspired shopping initiative. As part of the "Pink Passport" journey, customers will be presented with a two-fold opportunity; an exclusive 20% off in-store discount and a ticket to pick up the Juicy Couture Pink Passport. Each time a customer spends $200 or more on full price items at any Juicy Couture store, they'll receive a stamp in their passport and will automatically be entered to win the ultimate travel sweepstakes. The grand prize winner will be awarded with a dream trip to a Juicy Couture destination of choice. For two runner ups, prizes will include a Juicy travel tote bag filled with sunglasses, fragrance and other travel themed goodies from Juicy. The unique travel-inspired discount commenced April 1st, 2009 and is valid in all Juicy Couture locations, focusing on specific North America cities: New York City (NY), Las Vegas (NV), Aventura (FL), Boca Raton (FL), Merrick Park (FL), San Antonio (TX), Honolulu (HI), Waikiki (HI) as well as support for Asia, Dubai, Milan and soon Bruton Street - ultimately enticing shoppers to build Juicy Couture into a seamless shopping experience whether on Fifth Avenue or Hong Kong.

So Jaunt says, “Be Juicy (since every real man wants some meat on those bones) and buy Juicy (since theirs look the best on that booty).” You’d be hard pressed to find another brand that has both practical, comfortable travel wear and high-end looks ready for that wine tasting tour in Tuscany.

*Grand prize winner's package value is up to a maximum of $3,000
**Note the sweepstakes is only open to residents of the United States

Carry It On: Dermalogica's Concealing Spot Treatment

So you've just traveled 8+ hours to Paris for a little bit of work (and, okay, one hot inter-continental blind date) and guess what's staring back at you from the mirror of your humble pension near Les Tuileries? You guessed it. A nasty under-the-skin blemish that won't come to a head. Have no fear. Dermalogica is here!

During our many travels, the staff at Jaunt has learned a thing or two about packing light. No unnecessary cosmetics, no overstuffed suitcases, but here's the one thing we can't travel without. So important to our repertoire of natural beauty, we had to mention our solution to the pesky skin problems that come hand-in-hand with dry cabin air and humid, smoggy cities.

Dermalogica's Concealing Spot Treatment
An intense treatment with a natural-looking tint that quickly conceals and clears breakouts. Upon contact, concentrated Sulfur and Zinc Oxide help clear skin by eliminating bacteria associated with acne while clearing excess oil and congestion in the follicle. Niacinamide, Zinc Gluconate, Yeast and Cinnamon Bark extracts, Caffeine and Biotin purify and inhibit overactive sebaceous gland activity while soothing irritation. Salicylic Acid sloughs off dead skin cells that contribute to clogged follicles, helping to prevent future breakouts. The best part? There's no artificial fragrance or color. And trust us, it works. Matte, easily blendable, and drying, it's the perfect alternative to greasy foundation or traditional concealer.

A little goes a long way.

And really, when you're traveling the distance, looking flawless sometimes takes a little bit of work.

$31.00

www.dermalogica.com

Carry It On: Mysmartpac Travel Toiletries

We'll admit it. We're brainiacs. Or, at the very least, we love a big brain. In our world, being smart is second only to being kind so we decided to feature this handy travel pack perfect for the long (smart) weekend away.

mysmartpac, a new collection of disposable personal care products is designed for people on-the-go, providing carry-on ready (TSA 3-1-1 compliant), disposable, high-quality personal care products for the discerning traveler who's sick of having to use hotel brand shampoos or throw away half-bottles at the airport. Made in the U.S.A. with high quality ingredients like sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, aloe vera gel, vitamin E, and Shea butter, in case you're worried that it's wasteful, the packaging is made of 70-80% hard paper supplied by SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative) certified paper vendors. The SFI program practices sustainable forestry on all the land they manage and influence millions of additional acres through the training of loggers and foresters in management practices and outreach programs. In addition, the box is made of polypropylene because it doesn't poison the environment after disposal (as it contains only carbon and hydrogen atoms). The boxes are also made of about 30% post industrial waste. The tubes reseal and last for up to six (6) uses.

Available in both HIS and HERS.

HIS contains: Anti-Oxidant Face Cleanser, Shave Gel, Post Shave Cream, Body Lotion, Hair Gel, Deodorant, Toothpaste, Toothbrush and Triple Blade Razor. Fragrance: Morning Fresh.

HERS contains: Anti-Oxidant Face Cleanser, Anti-aging Face Cream, Body Lotion, Hair Gel, Deodorant, Toothpaste, Toothbrush and Triple Blade Razor. Fragrance: Violet Kisses.

The best part?
Suggested retail price $9.95 - 12.95

www.mysmartpac.com

Carry It On: Keen's Recycled Travel Bags & Totes

Sing along with me...


"Rice, rice baby... do do do... do do do do..."


Jaunt Magazine is headquartered in the heart of Hollywood which invariably means, we love sushi and we really love rice.



It also means we love to recycle and, what better way to pay homage to our love of the all things green, wrapped in seaweed, and reminiscent of the hard labor it takes to toil in the rice fields than to carry a bag that takes a stylish, earth-friendly, and, more importantly, durable, approach to travel and shopping.

Say hello to KEEN's Hybrid Transport Harvest collection, part of the environmentally-conscious shoe line turned bag and tote maunfacturer.

NORTHRUP from KEEN
This large brown tote is a great companion to any summer destination, from the farmers market to the beach. The beauty of these recycled bags? Their individuality - no two are the same, although all feature the same construction thanks to the varied patterns of the material repurposed to make these totes. It features a cushioned shoulder strap handle, internal security pocket, interior pockets to stash small accessories, and interior water bottle pockets.

Materials: Recycled Rice Paper
Color: Brown Recycle
$40.00

Back in the Fall of 2007, KEEN also launched Hybrid.STAND, an innovative program to promote sustainability through an online contest and campus outreach. KEEN gave $200,000 in grants to individuals and environmental organizations developing projects centered around sustainability. Providing high-quality products to an outdoor community while demonstrating the integrity and leadership of a company truly dedicated to social and environmental commitments, KEEN was also inspired by the 2005 Southeast Asian tsunami to redirect its advertising funds contributing more than $1.5 million to organizations such as the Conservation Alliance, Big City Mountaineers, Medicines Global, and other environmental and social nonprofits.

Talk about not leaving a carbon footprint.

This kind of forward-thinking caught our attention years ago, but it wasn't until we spotted their Harvest line of recycled rice bags that we really began to realize that their design team is stepping it up a notch.


KEARNEY from KEEN
Call it a Backpack or a knapsack. Just don't call it "garbage". Rescued from a fate worse than landfill, this bag uses materials whose lifecycle might have otherwise been underestimated. A durable, formidable, 100% recycled bag for hauling everything you need, wherever it is you're going. It features: water bottle pockets, an external lid pocket, and internal security pocket.

Materials: Recycled Rice Paper
Color: White Recycle
$50.00

It goes without saying that when someone is sporting one of these bags it's a sign that they're Keenly aware of how to make a mark.

www.keenfootwear.com

A Flair Necessity: Hard Tail Forever (and ever)

Hard Tail.

So many underlying meanings to such a name.

So many well-cut garments to choose from.

Seasonless and effortless, you're likely already familiar with their famous (and classic) roll down pant, still the top-selling product due to its excellent cut and shape. We wondered how Dick Cantrell, lounge/yoga/casual wear mogul, was able to have such a great handle on the needs of women. That is, until we discovered Cantrell is an ex-fighter pilot.

Certainly, such a man would understand precision and the subtle art of good angles. Like a well-aged Macallan, Cantrell was at the forefront of the industry over fifteen years ago as a sportswear manufacturer rooted in the southern California lifestyle. Bridging the gap between sloppy sweats and uncomfortable pantyhose, Cantrell helped usher in a casual look for both the gym and cafe. Thanks to him, women in California said hello to soft cottons and clothes that breathe. And hello to comfortable, hip fashion.

We covet his pants, hoodies, dresses, and tops. You name it, we want it. That's why we're so glad there's a shop on 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica. Thanks to Dick for not charging an arm and a leg, as we could easily go into debt stocking up on them. They're quite possibly the softest - and sturdest - of most casual wear and their dying secrets are second to none. Not only has he launched a 'Green Label' using only organic cottons, but all products are 'Made in the USA' and, we don't know about you, but we're tired of seeing 'Made in China' or 'Made in Bulgaria' on everything from Prada to Stella McCartney. Forgoing what many consider selling out to cheaper production costs (and little to no worker regulation) overseas, Hard Tail offers quality - and sustainability - to the US market when we need it most.

Go Dick!

Photo Above:
Hard Tail Green Label
Style #: GR-101
An organic cotton rib racer back tank dress in Swamp, perfect for traveling to and from Turks & Caicos this summer.
Retail price: $58.00

Style #: VL-13
A cotton voile bell sleeve beach tunic in Redwood perfect for lounging on the beach as you eye that Club Med cabana boy.
Retail price: $54.00

www.hardtailforever.com

A Flair Necessity: Brixton Hats

Question:
How did a couple of SoCal boys from the surfhood develop the coolest caps we've seen in years?


And how did they come up with the name Brixton?

Friends from their days at Transworld Media, a publishing company that owns some of your favorite adventure sports titles (Transworld Skateboarding, Snowboarding, and Surf), they were influenced by the culture around them and beyond. The name? A Clash song about Brixton (pst. Brixton is a part of London). While hunting for cool hats and accessories for the modern man and woman on the move, they hatched an idea and executed it, developing a line of goods perfect for the lover of surf, music, skateboarding, and art...

So here's your hat.

Launched in 2004, David Stoddard, Jason Young & Michael Chapin, inspired by vintage designs and the cultures and influences of California, attribute their traditional, yet modern designs to the friends and associates they met through the action sports community.

Our kinda boys.
For wear.
For travel.

That missing piece of the outfit that brings you to the next level.
The cool hat.

Jaunt Magazine says, "Gracias amorcitos."
The boys and I say check out:


The Clasp Women's Hat which seems to go with everything, The Castor Brown, unisex hat great for vacation, The Parlor Tan, a great women's beach hat...

And the Stout Fedora. Completely crushable, you can pack in bags and it will form back to shape no matter how badly you've packed it. Phew. Brad Pitt... it's calling youuuuuu.

Retails from $10.00-45.00

Palabra.

www.brixtonltd.com

Carry It On: The Trance Journey

I have a love/hate relationship with perfume. As a child, I was obsessed with those beautiful tiny bottles filled with obscure scents from France with names like Ma Liberte and Le Nuit de Noel. Occasionally, I'd dream of moving to Grasse to become a professional perfumer (also affectionately called 'le nez' or 'the nose'). I'd imagine myself picking gardenias in the fields of Provence or standing around in a lab coat as I skillfully nodded 'yes' or wrinkled my nose 'no.' As I got older, I quickly realized that my nose was likely too sensitive - most perfumes actually made me want to retch.

That is... until I received some samples of the most delicious smelling perfume this side of the Hollywood Hills.

TRANCE ESSENCES.

With names like PINK KAT and WHYTE RABITT, they might *sound* like a hippie's wet dream, but don't let that fool you. With six hand-blended fragrances they really do 'tempt the olfactory senses and send the mind on wonderful journeys.' And you know how much Jaunt loves a good journey.

What we like best?

They don't make us sick, they smell divine, they have interesting unique names, and each scent carries an equally unique mantra (that actually smells just like the description on the bottle).

"Natural fragrances of all kinds have always been intoxicating for me," says founder, Janna Sheehan. "The earthy smell of dirt after a rain shower, a freshly mowed lawn, fresh orange blossoms, and flourishing flowers, but why couldn’t I find a fragrance that I could wear without feeling sick?"

Ditto, Janna! Dit-to!

Confused by this phenomenon and tired of forcing herself to withstand nausea, she gave up. She headed two hours north to Ojai where a bit of divine intervention met her confusion. "Demystifying the perfume “why” phenomenon happened to me when an eccentric Ojai friend revealed that she was a perfumer," Janna reveals. "She created an elixir especially for me that smelled so pure and clean. It didn't smell like traditional perfume, because it wasn’t—it was made with essential oils."

Clarity followed.

For the next two years, they blended up to 25 different essential oil and perfume combinations to make Trance Essence nectars. She called them 'journeys' as they evoked the trips she wanted to take with each inhale. London in the sixties; down a rabbit hole; a hot, Moroccan nightclub in the summer; a Chinese garden of citrus at dawn; the Indiana woods after rain; and an exotic gardenia and rose garden from a childhood story. The result? Six complex and alluring Trance fragrances that will take you on a trip whether you're stepping into the boardroom... or boarding a plane. Trance Essence 'Journeys' include:

- CHEN XI - A Mandarin Garden At Dawn
- GENIE IN A BOTTLE - A Sultry Moroccan Nightclub In Summer
- ABBEY ROSE - The Rambunctious Streets of London In The 60's
- HAIL MERRI - A Dewy Forest After Rainfall
- WHYTE RABITT - Down A Psychedelic Rabbit Hole Where Time Stands Still
- PINK KAT - A Gardenia and Rose Garden From Childhood

Word on the Hollywood streets: Goldie Hawn bought the entire line for her daughter, Kate Hudson, Pamela Anderson wears PINK KAT, and Cher... what else? She anoints herself with HAIL MERRI.

FYI - The collection is a first run so only 200 bottles of each perfume and 200 candles of each scent are available!

From $52 - $103
Sold at Planet Blue in Malibu and Venice, Fred Segal in Santa Monica

www.tranceessence.com

A Flair Necessity: Tribal Matters

For the past two years, Katie Luong went through something any thirty year-old could relate to; she was bored and restless… and she desperately needed a new life plan. While working as photographer in a hospital Maternity Ward, she captured mothers as they first held their newborn babies. Although the awesome wonder of childbirth delighted her, she also began to feel just a little awkward about charging people for sharing such an intimate experience. Thus life, itself, began to take on a different - more personal - sort of preciousness.


So she quit.

“I had no job and I was completely hopeless," Luong admits.

And that's why we love her.

With little idea what she wanted to do with her life, she 'spent several weeks looking - and feeling - that the world was just this repetitious mechanical place.' Suddenly burnt out with interesting (yet somehow unfulfilling) jobs in catering and photography, she knew she needed to find herself... somewhere very far away.

Born in Ho Chi Minh City, this meant venturing to her homeland, Vietnam. She would stay in Vietnam as long as it took her to ‘figure out what in the world [she] was supposed to be doing here on this earth.’ She followed that trip with a jaunt to Thailand. It was during her stay in September 2007 that she was blown away with the unique handcrafted things from the mountainous tribal regions of Vietnam, home of the H’mong. She also discovered antique tribal items from the Kuchi tribes of India and, in love with their unique beauty, Luong did what any passionate collector begins to do. She collected. Bringing countless pieces home, she then photographed and admired them.

She also kept in touch with the local dealers.


More importantly, “It was an incredible one and a half months of travel and solitude," Luong reveals. "Being by myself and just seeing how much of an ant I am in this place called earth was eye-opening."

Fast forward to 2008.

Back in the US, she gathered her fascinating tribal pieces, did extensive research on the tribal jewelry market and voila!

Tribal Matters was born.

Subsequently, she found herself.
Just what every soul-searching jaunt is meant to do.



Pieces are made with 925 silver, brass, or white metal. Each carry the unique handcrafted exoticism captured by the complex indigenous tribes of the always tantalizing East.



For both stylish men and world-wise women, prices range from a very reasonable $15-$250.


www.tribal-matters.com

Sleep It Off: Personalized Pillows & Conradtinis

It's a good thing the Board 'o Hiltons listened to their marketing department because the Hilton name has sadly become old tired news. However, Conrad Hotels, the newly re-vamped contemporary luxury hotel brand, is upping the ante by delivering properties everywhere from Australia's Gold Coast to Punta del Este. Those under development include properties in Koh Samui and Dubai. Just to give you a taste, that up there... is the underwater restaurant at Conrad Hotel Maldives.

Now, I'm not one to shamelessly plug Hilton, but back in the day Hilton was synonymous with quality. Many years later (and many upgrades undelivered), their properties fell into a state of dis... well, let's just say Paris wouldn't be so proud. Thankfully, they're pulling themselves back from the 80's, introducing new amenities that sound downright fresh and fun. We'll start with a bespoke cocktail service called the 'Conradtini,' which enables guests to become a master mixologist by creating their own cocktail.

While most restaurants and bars offer standard martini and cocktail menus, this modern bar alternative allows guests to order and mix their cocktails exactly as they wish without worrying about finding the best combination of their preferred ingredients or sacrificing their interest in a peach martini because of their aversion to lime juice. Furthermore, each hotel and resort has created its own Conradtini menu to reflect the cultural preferences of location and local customs.

That's the part that I really like.

Whether guests prefer a gin base or vodka, juice or carbonation, nectars, syrup, a martini shaken or stirred, Conradtini offers guests the luxury of choice. So take a seat at the bar and create an individual concoction with as much - or as little - assistance from Conrad's own talented mixologists.

Will it be caramel, watermelon juice, banana nectar, cidona or Lucozade? From capers and cucumber to honeydew and snakefruit, you'll pick your own glassware (and prepare to get loopy).

Richard Blamey, Senior Vice President Brand Management, Conrad Hotels & Resorts says of the new Conradtini, "At Conrad we're always looking for ways to extend our commitment to providing options and personalised luxury experiences for our guests. This new bar concept, which we believe is the first of its kind... celebrates each guest's individual preferences. We want everyone to feel comfortable ordering their cocktails the way they enjoy them most, rather than for each guest to alter an already-existing menu."

Thanks, Richie. We appreciate the concern (and the attention to detail). Speaking of details, listen to this one:

A Global Pillow Menu!

Conrad Maldives

In line with their motto 'Luxury for Every Guest,' and for those of us with discerning pillow tastes, you can order up a speciality pillow depending on your needs. Whether I'm cramming the pillow between my legs or smashing it down to make it less bulky, this idea is clever customization at it's best.

Here's a sampling of pillow options (keep this in mind... when I was sent The Pillow Menu for the entire range of Conrad properties, it was several pages long!)

Bangkok Shogun Pillow - Igusu grass of Japan
Small holes inside the mat absorb humidity and heat. Tatami fiber massages feet and stimulates blood circulation when walked on.

Bangkok Miracle Pillow Polyester - 100% The "Anatomic Pillow"
In hygienic vacuum-packing, it's warm, shape retaining, springy, insulated, antiallergenic and antibacterial.

Chicago Cold and Flu Pillow
Infused with eucalyptus, tea tree, bergamot and sandlewood, Clear congestion and breath easier. The refreshing scents of eucalyptus and tea tree help relieve and clear noses. Bergamont eases headaches
and soothes a troubled stomach, while sandlewood relieves sore throats.

Chicago Romance Pillow
A relaxing fragrance stimulates and inspires a romantic ambiance with vetivert, patchouli, ylang-ylang and
sandlewood oils. This combination of scents is an essential for romance.

Chicago Snore No More Pillow
At last, a pillow designed by a doctor to help reduce snoring while improving sleeping posture to provide luxurious comfort for a better night's sleep. Designed to help reduce airway obstruction.

So, after downing my own personalized Cocktinis, I mean... Conradtinis, I can snooze it off in style. After all, who really NEEDS a lover when you can catch a cat nap in the Windy City with a Romance Pillow?

PS. If you're married, just throw your husband the Snore No More and watch some late night hotel programming.

Nighty nighty.

www.conradhotels.com

Carry It On: The Future is Lookin' Bright

Well, I'll be...
Just when I start to lose faith in my fellow man (even with all that Obama Hope Hype), he/she goes and does something really cool. So much for talk, this is action. It may be a prototype, but if the Nords continue to be as eco-awesome as they've been in the last five to ten years, I see the Photon stuffed in every stocking from London to Los Angeles. What's the Photon? you ask. Just a portable solar panel strap attached to a handy bag that will power that battery-hungry iLife of yours, that's what.

Intended for everyday and extreme mobile use, the solar strap is designed for - of all things - paddlers, and consists of a flat waterproof dry-bag, a mobile phone case and a shoulder strap. Solar cells have been placed in the strap to maximize their exposure to the sun so that you can use it to charge that pesky fifteen-minute strong cell battery.

Designed by Kari Sivonen, part of the architectural firm, Valvomo, out of Helsinki, this cool gadget was created for a traveling exhibition project called 'SAUMA' meaning 'Seam' [Design As Cultural Interface], featuring contemporary innovative design from Finland.

Fin-land. Fuck Yeah!
(Perhaps they should re-write the Team America theme song?)

www.saumadesign.net
Prototype made by Clothing+
www.clothingplus.fi
www.valvomo.com

Carry It On: The Physician

Believe it or not, sometimes the best part of traveling is staying in one place. Whether you're parked by the sea reading a good book or waiting to board the plane, it is often the solitude of the journey and those periods 'in between' that teach us more about ourselves and world around us.

To that end, part of that glorious discovery is what we read along the way. I'd love to say that I remember where - and what - I was doing in the Czech Republic when I encountered a book that carried me to an ancient world and exposed me to an author that continues to excite me, but alas... it was many years ago. The most I can recall is a summer spent in Prague, gargoyles atop a Medieval castle, and the stark Polish countryside roll past as I flipped the page.

And yet, rainy days spent traveling throughout Eastern Europe are also tinted with a hint of gold for when I rested my head at the end of a long day in Krakow, the sweeping historical tales of Noah Gordon came alive to accompany me. So much so, in fact, that last week I picked up another book by Mr. Gordon and was thrilled to discover that he's still got 'it.'

So what's my vote for adventurers, readers, lovers, and traveller's worldwide?

The Physician by Noah Gordon.

If you've been stuck in the city for months on end and haven't had the chance to hitch a plane to Mozambique or Montreal, here's what you do. Pick up a copy of any of his books. In 1999, The Physician was voted by the Madrid Book Fair as one of the ten most beloved books of all time. You'll be starting with his first book in the Robert Jeremy Cole trilogy. A fast, historically rich, yet easy read, it takes place in the 11th century so your imagination will run wild with the story of Robert Cole as he journeys from his childhood in England, througout Europe, and all the way to an Arabian medical school in Persia.

Timeless, full of intrigue and amusement, The Physician, along with my two other favorites (The Last Jew and Shaman, winner of the James Fenimore Cooper Prize by the Society of American Historians), breathe new life into ancient times.

PS. I also hear The Physician might be coming to a theater near you. If my crystal ball tells me anything it's... 'Oprah's gonna put this on her Book Club List soon'.

And won't you be thrilled to say you knew him when?

Carry It On: Sodashi Jet Lag Recovery Kit

I was sitting on the patio of my Four Seasons Koh Samui bungalow when my favorite Head of PR, Maria Kuhn, mentioned jet lag, the harshest of travel ailments (second, of course, to E. Coli and Montezuma's Revenge).

While lapping up the fresh island breeze, Ms. Kuhn filled me in on a little travel secret.... Sodashi, an Australian line of products second to none in the realm of travel goodies. Combining Sodashi’s most refreshing and uplifting products to rejuvenate during extensive periods of travel, their Jet Lag Recovery Kit features convenient travel sizes of their top travel products including:

• 30ml Jet Lag Recovery Gel
• 50ml Jet Lag Recovery Mist
• 30ml Eye Lifting Gel
• 30ml Rehydrating Face & Neck Moisturiser
• 30ml Hand Rescue Cream

My favorites include the Jet Lag Recovery Gel, a cooling gel formulated to 'uplift and revive the mind and body during long periods of travel.' Applied to pulse points every three hours during travel, it strengthens mental clarity and awareness and helps the body’s digestion with key active ingredients including grapefruit, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass and ginger. The Jet Lag Recovery Mist, a fortifying mist, can be used regularly during and after travel to cool the skin and keep the mind and body feeling fresh when you're about ready to fall over. One of the key active ingredients includes geranium which provides a balancing effect on the skin. All products are available online so stop dragging your feet and start feeling jet set fresh.

www.sodashi.com

Stay tuned for the next two weeks where Jaunt will uncover the best off-the-radar picks for LA and Maui!

Carry It On: Balm Voyage! Cosmetic Junkies Unite!

Have I mentioned that I only travel light? That means light moisturizer, make-up, and hair care. No sooner had I searched for Eva Longoria's beauty secret (FYI - it's Enjoue's Satin Primer), when I came across a beauty website that had some of the finest custom blended colors anywhere.

Welcome to Cosmetic Junkies (www.cosmeticjunkies.com), a site run by a family of beauty-tastic professionals that know more about color, hair, and cosmetics than anyone I've met in years. After training as a color educator for Goldwell and traveling the Southwest and East coast teaching, the Nusskerns learned beauty inside and out.

After they moved to New York and established a salon, Val, Head Proprietor and heart & soul of the group, got back to her passion for make-up. After all, her mama was a buyer for cosmetic stores in the Deep South. As most salons and stores now cater to the big names, Val goes to the best names; the ones you need to search for. In essence, she does all the work for you.

My vote for travel buffs?

Balm Voyage, a trio of three sexy colors with names like Daddy's Girl, Beauty Queen, and Cocoa My Coconut.

It's luxury travel make-up for the hot traveling babe in you.

www.cosmeticjunkies.com

Carry It On: It's a Croc

It's a sad, sad world when a girl can't find a decent, durable, goes with everything, fits a laptop and a pair of shoes... beach bag or carry-on. Forget gaudy prints, leather, suede, big buckles, too much weight, and fabrics that ruin as soon as you step foot in monsoon rains off the coast of Singapore.

'Cause that's exactly what happened to me. I landed on a little island off the tip of Malaysia, searched the Takashimaya Mall for a memorable bag to bring home some booty with, knocked back a few Tu Tu Kueh (tiny cakes of flour stuffed with coconut and steamed to light sweet perfection), but I could not find the one thing I was actually looking for...

A well-made, well-priced, understated, yet clearly chic carry-on. So, before I headed back home to kiss my sweet Asia good-bye, I stumbled around Singapore's impressive airport, had a shoulder massage to prepare for the 17 + hour trip home, and then ran smack dab into... the second love of my life...

Lacoste.

With several new bags capable of fulfilling all of your travel needs, my two picks include the City Croc Tote (pictured here) perfect for the beach and The Lacoste Elegance Duffle (pictured above) perfect for carrying on.

The canvas duffle zips, fits a pair of shoes, a laptop, toiletries, some spare clothes AND it has a classic stripped pattern on the inside.

Croc a doodle do it.

Both at Macy's
$475 / $140, respectively.

(now you really have no excuse for passing up a sexy weekend with that first love of your life)

A Flair Necessity: One Three Way You Won't Regret

Admit it. You like variety. That's cool. I like variety too. Problem is this...

I've got a little angel on one shoulder that tells me what I ought to be doing. Good thing that little angel says: "Do a three way... the organic way."

You know as well as I do... The Three Way is always a real challenge, but this is one three way you'll never forget. 100% Organic Cotton, hand-made in glorious LA, and perfect for versatile travel style. Made by Earth & Sky, a sustainable style company founded by Karen Kanananen and Samantha Robinson, their love of fashion and concern for the planet brings a line with deconstructed seams, raw hems, and hand-dyed colors. Relaxed and well crafted, sing after me... 'Transformer... more than meets the eye...'

Retails for $124.00
www.btcelements.com

Carry It On: The Titan X2

Oh man... I was supposed to wait to tell you guys about this one, but I can't wait any longer.

A few days ago, I was pitched a piece of luggage called 'THE TITAN.' I think, "Ballsy name." Then I see a photo and think, "Sexy good looks too?" And you know me. If it's ballsy with sexy good looks, I'm gonna get me one!

Somewhere between Swiss Army sleek and Stefani chic... is the Titan X2.

But first, I want to know this: What's up with all this great German luggage? Seems those engineering masters have the market covered. Well, works for them, works for me.

It says 'Yellow' on the website, but trust me, it's Orange.
Those cooky Germans! Maybe they're color blind.
What do I care? I'm about to make a statement.
The best part? It's made of super light polycarbonate,
handles corners like a champ, comes with it's own removable dob kit,
and has a "No Matter What" lifetime guarantee.


So, this is what you need to roll in style with me. I'd snatch up the X2 Flash International Carry-on and the Trolley, or the Red (or Pink) 360 series. The Xenon was also named "the best hardcase trolley" by German consumer magazines so you really can't go wrong with any of 'em. I have the Orange aka. 'Yellow' International Carry-on and it's cute as hell, but it may not be big enough for the likes of you.

Me? I know how to travel light.
(And I hate checking bags)

PS. Wouldn't you know...
Stefani's sporting a set in Green.

Hollaback Girl.

(I can't believe I just said that)

Retails anywhere from $420-$725
www.titanluggageusa.com

Carry It On: The Sonya Dakar Jet Set

Listen here. If I have to throw out one more bottle of fancy product because it's two squirts more than 3/4 of an ounce or get out of line at security to buy some silly plastic bag to hold my liquids...

I'm 'a gonna scream!

So I'm leaving for Singapore and Thailand in a week. Guess what I need to get MY little paws on?

The Sonya Dakar JET SET.

I've known Dakar and her family for years. They're good peeps. Tough, and kind. Warm, and honest. Her whole family runs the business, one that was once conducted out of a spare bedroom in her home. She says always knew she wanted to solve skin care woes. Later, after she married her loving husband, they had kids. Her four children stirred pots of skin cream in the kitchen while her husband searched Madagascar to the Maldives for every root, twig, and remedy that could calm and cure unruly skin. Now they're living La Vida Splendida in a fancy schmancy building in Beverly Hills.

You gotta love the American Dream.
Better yet, just love Sonya Dakar.

Here's one difference between Dakar and other Skin Care Specialists around town. She's Israeli. That means she practically went to Medical School so that she could do facials in the homeland. She's bottom line, fast, gives obvious results, asks you a question or two about your long distance love, and she'll never, ever leave you scarless. I still haven't figured out how. Ancient secrets from the Exodus? Herbal remedies from the Holy Land? Who cares?! She gives THE MOST EFFECTIVE FACIAL I've ever had and there are pictures to prove it. Me, looking like Britney Spears after a fast food bender, weeks later transformed into Jessica Alba after hair and make-up. But no amount of money in the world would let you see my 'Before' photos. Sonya's got 'em under lock and key. So when the best Hollywood dermatologists could do NOTHING for my skin, she was the only one.

She and her products are so good, in fact, that I haven't seen her in about a year, which is exactly why... I need to travel with them. Lucky for me, she's just created the Sonya Dakar JET SET, a perfect travel companion with just enough of each product (about ¾ of an ounce) to last on your two week jaunts to Africa, Greece, or Singapore and Thailand (hint, hint). It includes the three basics of your regimen – facial wash, anti-oxidant primer and ultra-light moisturizer – in a satin travel case with a waterproof compartment and room for whatever else travels 3000+ miles with you. She's even created three sets geared to each major skin type - dry, normal, oily. Fortified with the natural extracts like Frankincense, Geranium and Rosewood, the JET SET retails for $72.00.

But can you really put a price on after-flight glow?

It's available in August via phone: at 877-72-SONYA
www.SonyaDakar.com

A Flair Necessity: Get Frocked

Look, I'm gonna let you in on a secret. Sometimes we don't always want to write about our favorite things because then every Tom, Dick, and Harry from Sunset Boulevard to the Southland will have them, but I'm a writer so I'm stuck.

I'm forced to cough up the goods.

Ehhm... Leona Edmiston, one of Australia's leading fashion designers.

Ugh. Sometimes it hurts, but she'll frock you just right. Whether you want to feel like a sexy secretary from the 40's, an English Rose, or an Assassin. And travelling in Leona... mama mia! Not only will you feel like a million bucks, but these dresses pack so well that there's no need to ever iron or dry clean. It's amazing. Such a good find, in fact, that after I hit 'Publish', I'm running to Sunset Blvd. to get good and frocked.

So get outta my way.

That's right... Frock You.

PS. Did I also mention they serve Australian licorice and frocktails?

www.leonaedmiston.com
Frocks retail for anywhere from $250-$600