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06December   {Gift Guide 2012} For the FOFrequent Flyer


Know someone who is a trendsetting, jet-setter? Send her off in style with these 10 gifts recommended by FOFrequent flyers.


Plus, enter for a chance to WIN Have Mother, Will Travel or The Official Guide to America’s National Parks by answering this question in the comments, below: Which book would you most like to win?




1. Have Mother, Will Travel, $14.98


“For travel lovers, this book is a must! It changed how I relate to my daughter, gave me ideas on how to improve my (less-than-stellar) relationship with my mother, and made me laugh out loud in many parts.”--Linda M., Rochester, NY



2. The Official Guide to America’s National Parks by Fodor’s, $18.99


“One of my family’s favorites places to visit is Yellowstone National Park. We stay at Spring Creek Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. They have an incredible wildlife safari into Yellowstone led by the resort’s on-staff naturalist, Kurt Johnson. Second to a living, breathing tour guide is this newly released guide to the National Parks by Fodor’s. The perfect stocking stuffer for any avid traveler!”
--FOF Nancy Friedman of Nancy J. Friedman Travel P.R.



3. Circle Hottie from the FabOverFifty Shop, $45


“Another great stocking stuffer for the travel-obsessed! I typically carry a portable heating pad to help my back feel better during and after long flights and hauling heavy luggage.”--FOF Nancy Friedman of Nancy J. Friedman Travel P.R.



4. Magellan’s Good Night Sleep Mask, $14.50


“The best sleep mask I've found to date. It's soft, lightweight, completely blocks out light, and is so comfortable you don't even feel it on, thanks to the molded nose and cupped eyes that don't squish your lashes.” --FOF Claire Fontaine, author of Have Mother, Will Travel




5. Evo Travel Kits, $29.95


“FOFrequent Flyers know the importance of traveling lightly, and being well-prepared. I have fallen in love with this fabulous new eco line of travel cosmetics from Australia. Their ‘water killer’ dry shampoo is also perfect for long flights.” --FOF Nancy Friedman of Nancy J. Friedman Travel P.R.



6. Handmade Block Print Scarf from the FabOverFifty Shop, $36



“No woman should ever travel without a good scarf; they're thin enough to fit in a purse, can double as a blanket on a plane or a sarong on the beach, and elegant enough for any restaurant or event. Proceeds from this go to artisans abroad in need.”--FOF Claire Fontaine, author of Have Mother, Will Travel




7. MyTag luggage tags, $32.99


“Several years ago, a friend sent me these. They are so eye-catching that I can instantly identify my black bags on a luggage carousel. The polyester-webbing strap has your name (or any other word) stitched into it and conceals pockets that hold your contact information and trip itinerary."--FOF Karen McCann, author of Dancing in the Fountain: How to Enjoy Living Abroad



8. Dancing in the Fountain: How to Enjoy Living Abroad, $13.95



“A few years ago, my husband and I retired to Seville, Spain and I wrote a book about my life abroad. If your FOFfriend is looking ahead to retirement, consider sending her a copy. Lonely Planet editors say, ‘I loved this book ... I must have laughed aloud at least once in every chapter.'”--FOF Karen McCann, author of Dancing in the Fountain: How to Enjoy Living Abroad



9. Travalo Fragrance Dispenser, $20



"TSA approved design for carrying your fragrances on board."--Shelley Zurek



10. BAGGU nylon shopping bag, $9
“If you’re traveling, you’re going to be shopping.These lightweight nylon shopping totes can be tucked into any handbag and come in a multitude of fun colors and patterns. I never travel without one or two.”--Pam Peterson, the FOF behind the brilliant travelogue, ObjectsBlog.



Answer this question in the comments below for a chance to win Have Mother, Will Travel or The Official Guide to America’s National Parks: Which book would you most like to win?


Two FOFs will win. (See all our past winners, here.) (See official rules, here.) Contest closes December 20th, 2012 at midnight E.S.T. Contest limited to residents of the continental U.S.
60 comments   
01December   {Travel} “I’m traveling the world for free–and you can, too.”
Would you ever do a home swap?

The risks: Virtual strangers move into your home, cook in your kitchen, sleep in your bed, use your phone . . . even look through your drawers and medicine cabinets.


The reward: A free stay at a destination like the one pictured above, a private villa in the South of France, with a pool, tennis court, and views overlooking a cherry orchard and the breathtaking Luberon Mountains.

FOF Sandra Harris did her first “homeswap” in 2005, trading her house in London during the dreary winter months, for a charming cottage on the beach in Apollo Bay, Australia. Since then, Sandra has traveled back to Australia several times as well as to Cornwall, Santa Monica and Sicily, all through home swapping with other eager travelers on HomeExchange.com.

She spoke to us from her latest homeswap destination, an Italianate apartment in the heart of Palermo, Italy.

Tell us a little about yourself so that we know you’re normal.
I am in my late sixties. I’ve lived in London for the past 40 years. I am married and we have three children, all adult, and three grandchildren whom I am dotty about. I work as a reporter and freelance writer.

How did you get started with your first “home swap”
Friends of friends in Melbourne had mentioned that they wanted to spend the winter in London. (Strange but true). My husband and I moved into their house for three months while they moved into ours.

Do you have to swap for that long?
No, although I personally recommend taking a longer trip when you swap. But I’m here in Sicily for just five days.

Were you nervous the first time you did it?
Oh yes. Mostly about spending three months somewhere we’d only seen in emailed photos, in a city we didn’t know. We’d be unable to change our minds.

Clearly it went okay, since you’ve now used this method of travel many times. But tell me why it worked.
That first experience was truly life-changing. We lived like locals. When we arrived in our new “home” in Melbourne, Val had left us a lovely bottle of Australian red, along with a detailed list of the best local restaurants, where to shop, how to take the bus--everything. Within a few weeks, we knew where to get the best croissants; I had joined the local pony club and become a proxy in Val’s cinema group. We made lifelong friends. . .


But what about the other side of the coin? Weren’t you nervous about people staying in your home? Using your things?
People who mutter about it being 'a bit of a lottery' just don't get it. It is not a gamble at all, but totally reciprocal. You look after my house/pets/car/plants and I will do the same for yours. People don’t take advantage because they’re in the same position. Ed Kushins, the director of HomeExchange.com, told me that over 9 years and thousands and thousands of home swaps, no one has ever reported a theft of abuse of property.

Would you ever go back to hotel-based travel?
When it's just for a short time, yes, I would. I like hotels. I like being waited on and ringing up room service. But it's a totally different experience. It is about visiting a place and taking in the sights. Home exchange is about digging your heels in and becoming part of the life of a place.

Can you tell me a typical day during your homeswap in Sicily?
We start in a cafe with our daily cappucini and pastry, my favourites are the little horns 'cannoli', filled with custard cream and dusted with icing sugar. Today we visited a totally unique shop called Modusvivendi (The Way To Live, in Latin) a book shop that also sells glorious scarves and pashminas in intense Medici colours, the sort of thing you imagine Catherine Medici or Lucretia Borgia would have worn. The owner, Marcella, was providing coffee and cornetti for her customers. We visited the local food markets to buy ingredients for soup. Oranges are everywhere; pears bursting with juice and taste, and fat, round grapes. In the evening we went to Teatro Garibaldi for a Beethoven concert. And bed at 11 with a good book!


Any tips for an FOF who wants to try this out?
The secret it is that no money changes hands.The gas bills, phone bills etc--forget them. Once you start totting up bills and arguing about small change you've lost the plot. It becomes like a rental and that is a whole different bag of beans. Home exchange is exactly that.  Exchange.

Ed's note: We became mildly obsessed with searching homeexchange.com after we interviewed Sandra, and found incredible homeswap opportunities in Turkey, Mexico, Bali, and many, many more (including all over the United States). Other sites worth searching include Homelink.org and exchangehomes.com.
48 comments   
01December   {Travel} Money-saving travel tips from FOFrequent Flyers
4 FOFrequent Flyers share their secrets to trotting the globe without burning holes in their wallets.





TravelSlide1

How she did it: “My husband and I use our good credit ratings to get credit cards with sign-up bonuses. I got 150,000 miles alone when I signed up for two Citibank cards. While that deal is over, right now Chase Sapphire is offering 50,000 miles as sign-up bonus. I read the travel blog Million Mile Secrets, which always has the scoop on which cards are offering hotel points and frequent flyer miles for free.”





The fine print: “The credit cards all have a minimum spend, which varies from card to card, but we pay off the balance every month and only use the card for groceries, gas and routine payments. We benefit from managing our finances responsibly.”




TravelSlide2

How she did it: “I set up airfare e-mail ‘alerts’ using Farecompare, TripAdvisor and Kayak, and when the price drops, I buy our tickets. One month ago, I set up an alert for a flight to Lima, Peru which was about $1,000 when I first checked. Today I got an alert that the price has dropped to $800, so I’ll book.





The fine print: “It can be tricky to coordinate group travel, because you have to be ready to book at any time. If you hesitate, the rate may be lost.”




TravelSlide3

How she did it: “I became a member of the Fairmont President’s Club. You get a deal by e-mail each month, which was how I got five-nights in a junior suite at the Fairmont Willow Stream Spa and Resort (including breakfast and an in-room jacuzzi!) for $99/night. They also are very accommodating and will often give free upgrades.”





The fine print: None -- it’s free to sign up for their e-mails.




TravelSlide4

How she did it: “I booked a week-long trip to Disney for me and my two goddaughters including airfare, hotel, all meals, two snacks a day AND park admission through my through my local AAA travel. They research for you, get you the best packages and deals, and I’ve found the discounts are incredible. We did this package twice and the hotels offered were The Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge. Meals were excellent--you could eat at any of the restaurants in the park and it included a breakfast with the characters. Park passes were unlimited and even included special opening and closing hours since we were staying on park property. We went during the summer but the deal runs all year long.”





The fine print: AAA membership is $49.00 for the year.




TravelSlide5

How she did it: I used biddingfortravel.com to see what the going bids on Priceline were. The best rate via the hotel's website was $209 per night, on Priceline it was listed at $149 but after researching other bids on BiddingforTravel I named my own price and paid $45 per night for the room.”





The fine print: You’re relying on the testimonies from average Joes and Janes, so bidder beware. Otherwise, this site is genius!




TravelSlide6

How she did it: We have saved a bundle by booking European hotels through the “in-country” site vs. the U.S. sites. A few years ago, I wanted to stay at a Travelodge hotel near Kinross in Scotland. The price on the U.S. website was 50 pounds per night (about $100 at the time.) I found the same hotel for 25 pounds (about $50 at the time) when I cross-checked the price on the U.K. site.





The fine print: Language barriers could make this trick . . . tricky--make sure nothing gets “lost in translation” and you understand exactly what the rate is and what you are getting for that price.



2 comments   
30November   {Street Spotted} Paris, where every week is Fashion Week

A photo essay on French style by Geri, who yearns to be French in her next life.



I think everyone in Paris is tres chic, from the bebes in their hand-knit sweaters…


to the octogenarian who tilts her beret just so.



The moment I stepped into Miller et Bertaux, on Rue Ferdinand Duval,  I knew I was going to buy something.  I am wearing my purchases, a featherweight raincoat in eggplant...


and a gorgeous silk dress and scarf—with an ever-so-slightly different pattern—that designer Francis Miller adjusts perfectly.



Francis’s friend Katherine stops by his shop to say hello, wearing a belted denim skirt with a short leather jacket, that’s definitely on trend.



Saleswomen Yvette does justice to her employer’s clothes.




…nor this one, which teams a leather shirt jacket with a short-sleeved open sweater. “This is a hot trend,” said FOF Frenchwoman Cecile, who I spotted checking into a flight to New York.

So, my views are clear, but what do you think of French style?
47 comments   
11May   {Travel} 5 Life-Changing Trips… You can take for FREE
FOF Sheryl Kayne was living in Weston, Connecticut, working as a teacher and education writer and raising her children. But deep down, she harbored secret dreams: to drive to Alaska, to become a park ranger, to immerse herself in the culture of a new city, to work with horses...to have adventures.

In 1992, she got divorced, and by 2001 her kids had left home. Sheryl realized, “This is my chance to step out of my life and make great adventures happen.” She wanted to travel but had no desire to take a packaged trip to Cancun and lie on the beach. “I wanted to immerse myself in a location--get to know the people and the culture. I wanted to challenge myself, contribute, grow and learn.” The result is her award-winning guide, Immersion Travel: The Best and Most Meaningful Volunteering, Living, and Learning Excursions. The book chronicles her own “immersion trips”--as a breakfast cook at a lodge in Stehekin, Washington, and as a tour guide in Denali National Park, Alaska--as well as the life-changing trips other men and women have taken to accomplish long-held dreams.

A word of warning: These trips are not pleasure cruises--literally. They can be mentally and physically challenging, but according to Sheryl, that’s all part of the journey. The best part: many “immersion” trips are completely free.

Here, Sheryl shares five fabulous and free(!) opportunities for life-changing travel.

1. Learn Fly Fishing With Friends


Imagine standing in a cool, clear mountain stream, learning to fish with a group of friendly, supportive FOFs. Casting For Recovery provides fly-fishing retreats for women who have or have had breast cancer. It also accepts 1500 volunteers each year to attend and assist the participants. These no-cost retreats are offered at bucolic locations across the country, from Vermont and Alabama to Montana and Colorado. “One of my clients, Sema, attended as a participant and later returned as a volunteer. She credits the trip with giving her a 'week-long ‘a-ha’ moment, and inspiring her to create her own business helping breast cancer survivors,” says Sheryl.

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2. Create Art in a Breathtaking American Setting


Spend the summer ensconced in a cozy cabin, sketching, writing or painting as you gaze upon some of the most breathtaking views America has to offer. The National Park Service’s Volunteers-in-Parks program accepts thousands of applicants a year to volunteer in exchange for housing and VIP park access. If you’re a professional or novice painter, poet, photographer, writer or crafter, consider the artist-in-residence programs. Artists are invited to live and work in the park in exchange for offering a workshop to park visitors or donating a piece of art.

“I volunteered as the writer in residence in the Everglades National Park in 2007 and 2008,” says Sheryl. “It’s exciting to visit a national park, but it’s a lifetime experience to live inside one for an extended period of time."

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3. Work with Primates in Saugus, CA


Indulge your Jane Goodall fantasies when you volunteer to work at the Gibbon Conservation Center in scenic Saugus, CA. Resident volunteers are required to commit to one month of services--accommodations are humble, but included. You’ll work with the researchers to feed, water and care for the gibbons. Says FOF Fiona of her stay: “For anyone with a love of animals wanting to get ‘up close and personal’ with primates, GCC is a wonderful opportunity. I volunteered at the center for four weeks and thoroughly enjoyed becoming part of the gibbons’ day-to-day life. I learned new skills, made good friends, and took away experiences that very few people can match.”

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4. Advocate for Wildlife on Hawk Mountain


Experience a wonderful immersion excursion and a sight rarely equaled elsewhere--18,000 hawks, vultures, falcons, and eagles fly directly by Hawk Mountain between August and December.

Hawk Mountain is part of the Blue Mountain Ridge, which has been named a critical corridor by the Pennsylvania Game Commission–State Wildlife Management Agency.  Volunteers and interns are needed throughout the summer to help track and protect the hawks. If you’ve got a green thumb, they’re also looking for people who can help give tours of their Native Plant Garden and run their Native Plant Sale.

Long and short-term volunteer opportunities are available in research, monitoring, and environmental education, along with internships.

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5. Become a Lighthouse Keeper in the Apostle Islands, Wisconsin


If you’ve ever seen Nights in Rodanthe, you’re familiar with the inn-keeper fantasy. A lonely FOF is taking care of her friend’s seaside inn and welcomes a weary traveler...who just happens to Richard Gere. Well, we can’t guarantee Gere, but we can guarantee that you can enjoy gratis accommodations when you volunteer as a lighthouse keeper in the awe-inspiring Apostle Islands of Wisconsin. Spend several weeks to an entire summer at one of five island locations, greeting tourists, performing light trail work, and maintaining the historic residences.
16 comments   
11May   {Travel} “What’s in my travel bag”
Talk about emotional baggage! Three of the greatest FOF packers we know share what's stowed in their carry-ons. From moleskin to powdered peanut butter...  their packing lists might surprise you.

1. Nancy Friedman is founder and CEO of an award-winning travel and hospitality P.R. agency based in New York. Her clients have included the island of St. Lucia, Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, Westin Hotels and Resorts and more. Nancy travels a few times each month for work and leisure. Her favorite travel destinations are Vermont, Spain, Denmark and the Dominican Republic.


Her luggage:
TUMI suitcases in silver, brown, red and black.

What's in her bag:
Lightweight sweater -- "For when it's chilly on the plane. Or sometimes I'll pack a pashmina or light jacket."
Eye mask -- "For sleeping on the plane. My current one is leopard print."
3 FDA-approved, clear bottles -- "I put shampoo in one, conditioner in another, and Woolite or mouthwash in the third. My P.R. agency developed and branded these."
Soft Surroundings wrinkle-proof pants in black -- "They're easy to wear on the plane, lightweight and super soft.”
Flats -- "I rarely wear boots or sneakers at the airport because you have to take your shoes off to go through security.”
Books -- "Currently I have one book for light reading, I Think I Love You by Allison Pearson and one that's a little heavier, Even Silence Has an End by Ingrid Betancourt. I switch back and forth between the two."
KIND bars -- "I never want to be stuck hungry without healthful options.”
Nike bike shorts -- "I love biking in different cities."

Her travel packing tip:
“Pack clothing in one or two color schemes and accessorize.”

Her ideal vacation spot:
“It's so hard to pick! Spring Creek Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, has the best views in the Tetons. In Prague, I love the Hotel Aria for its music theme. The Postcard Inn in St. Petersburg, Florda, is a fun and affordable beach destination."
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2. Marybeth Bond, "The Gutsy Traveler," is the author of 11 travel books for women including the bestsellers 50 Best Girlfriend Getaways in North America,  A Woman’s World and Gutsy Women. Marybeth has hiked, cycled, climbed, dived and kayaked her way through more than seventy countries, from the depths of the Flores Sea to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. She's appeared as a travel expert on Oprah, CBS News, CNN, ABC, NBC, National Public Radio and National Geographic Weekend.



Her luggage:
Samsonite Spinner in black or blue.

What's in her bag:
Magellan's hang-up toiletries holder -- "It has clear pockets so I can see what I packed at all times."
Eye shield -- "If the person I'm traveling with wants to stay up late reading or I have a chatty neighbor on the plane, it's great."
Clothespin or large safety pin -- "Before I go to bed, I pin closed the curtains in my hotel room to keep it dark.”
Taupe-colored pashmina-- “It goes with everything and it’s so warm. I use it as a night shawl, a throw, or a warming wrap in a chilly restaurant.”
Ann Taylor black open-toe, slingback heels -- "They're dressy, but comfortable."
Clinique or Olay face cream with SPF -- "It’s very important my face cream has sun screen with a minimum of SPF 8. You can get sun damage without knowing it, even when you are driving.”
Moleskin -- "I cut a 1-inch-by-1-inch piece and put it in my shoes. It prevents blisters."


Her travel packing tip:
"Don't pack a hairdryer. It's what I call a 'baggage buster.' You don't need it, every place has them."

Her ideal vacation spot:
"I love Racho La Puerta -- I've been there 3 times. It's an all-inclusive spa resort in Mexico. I love their facials and hot river stones massage. They have more than 300 gym classes a week, a cooking school on an organic farm and Pultizer-prize-winning guest speakers. You stay in terra cotta cottages with private patios. The resort sits on 3,000 acres of preserved land. But, my favorite thing about it, is they have 36 hammocks that dot the property."
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3. Debbi Kickham has been a travel writer since 1984. She is the former editor of the Robb Report and has written travel article for magazines and newspapers including The New York Times, The Boston Globe, The Los Angeles Times, Glamour and Cigar Aficionado. Her new book, The Globetrotter's Get Gorgeous Guide, is the world's first beauty book for traveling women.


Her luggage: Travel Pro Platinum 6 in blue.


What's in her bag:
A jump rope -- "If your hotel or resort doesn't have a gym, you can still exercise in your room with a jump rope. I've done it many times even when I stayed at in an over-water bungalow in Bora Bora.”
Skirt Sports workout wear -- "It’s a little skirt with shorts underneath. I love wearing a skirt when I workout. It puts a little pizazz in your step."
FitNutz Powdered Peanut Butter -- "All you do is add water and you have instant peanut butter. It gives Skippy a run for its money. Two tablespoons of Fitnutz is about 45 calories with 1 gram of fat. Two tablespoons of Skippy is about 130 calories and 50 grams of fat. It’s great if you need a little energy."
En Passant by Frederic Malle -- "This fragrance smells like lilacs. I'm crazy about it. On the plane I go fragrance free, but I always pack this to wear once I arrive at my destination."
"Basket Case" by Orly nail polish-- "It’s bright pink, my favorite color. I wear it constantly."
A satin pillowcase - "Satin is much more forgiving on your face and hair and doesn't cause wrinkles like a cotton pillowcase does."
Oscillococcinum-- "This is a wonderful homeopathic remedy that you can buy at any pharmacy. Whenever I travel, I’m very susceptible to getting sick. The minute I feel like I’m coming down with something, I take it."
Landau costume jewelry -- “I think it's a good idea to invest in some nice costume jewelry for traveling. I'm a big fan of Landau jewelry."
Bass Weejuns tassled loafers with a rubber sole -- "I swear by them for the airplane and sightseeing. Tomorrow I have a 3-hour layover in Miami. I'll walk for exercise in the airport. I'll wear loafers instead of sneakers so I don't look like a slob."
Magazines - "I love reading Allure, InStyle and spa magazines on the plane."

Her travel packing tip:
"Instead of packing beauty products, check out the local pharmacy at your destination. Often you can find locally-made skincare items that are climate and temperature specific. These products also make great gifts.”

Her ideal vacation spot:
"I go to Hawaii once a year for two weeks. My favorite resort is the Fairmont Kea Lani- they have a fabulous beach, gorgeous swimming pool and all of the rooms are suites."
1 comments   
11May   {Poll} If money were no object… Which lavish celeb vacation would you take?
Earlier this year, on the premier of the 25th and final season of her eponymous talk show, Oprah Winfrey surprised 300 audience members by announcing she was taking them on an eight-day, all-expenses paid vacation to Australia. But even that epic trip doesn’t hold a candle to some of the more extravagant vacations the FOF daytime queen has taken herself. And Oprah’s not the only FOF star who splurges on over-the-top trips. Read about 4 lavish celeb vacations then decide: Which one would you most want to take?

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Oprah Winfrey - Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
PRICE: $54,500 - $56,000 per night for up to 28 guests (5 night minimum)



When Oprah wants to live out her Blue Lagoon fantasies she knew exactly where to go: Sir Richard Branson’s 74-acre,  completely private island. There, she and her friends had access to every water sport under the sun, plus a private, high-speed submarine, the Necker Nymph. The 2:1 staff-to-guest ratio makes this island truly fit for royalty, and the Queen of Daytime Television is no exception--while visiting the oasis, she and her “court” were waited on hand-and-foot by the island’s 60 staff members.

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Madonna - Christina O Yacht in the Caribbean
PRICE: $64,000 - $93,000 per day


In the 1960s, Aristotle Onassis and Jackie O used this super-yacht as their own floating mansion while entertaining the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and Winston Churchill. In 2009, when Madonna chartered a trip, it had long-since been converted to a private playground for celebs at sea. On board, the Material FOF enjoyed Michelin Star cuisine, massages at Six Senses spa, and the legendary pool with mosaic floor - which rises to form a dance floor at the flick of a switch.

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Jodie Foster - Hotel Martinez Penthouse Prestige Apartment in Cannes
PRICE: $37,000 per night


For those who like to feel as if they’re living in a 007 movie, consider this palatial penthouse on the French Riviera. When FOF-in-waiting Jodie Foster stays here, she enjoys 24-hour butler service (helpful in case she’s in the master bedroom and too tired to walk all the way to the kitchen for a snack - the suite is, after all, 2,000 square-feet). Should she work up a sweat visiting the linen closet, she can rejuvenate in the in-room Turkish steam bath or enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean.

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Victoria Principal - Virgin Galactic Spaceflight in sub-orbital outer space (in planning)
PRICE: $200,000 per person


If a stay on a private island is still too terrestrial for you (Necker Island does, after all, share a hemisphere with countless Best Westerns and Days Inns) Sir Richard Branson would love nothing more than to shoot you into outer space. FOF Victoria Principal is among the luminaries who have expressed interest in a Virgin Galactic spaceflight, which would comprise a six-passenger, two-pilot spacecraft taking you 70,000 feet above Mother Earth and back into her warm embrace in around 3.5 hours. The trip will most likely include six minutes of weightlessness, a perk no matter how many carbs you’ve been eating.
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If money were no object, which lavish celeb vacation would you most want to take?






View Results




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Images via Zimbio: Oprah, Madonna, Jodie Foster, Victoria Principal
Destination images via Travelet, My Christina O, Hotel Martinez, Cube Me
19 comments   
11May   {Giveaway} 5 Molton Brown Travel Beauty Bundles
FOF is giving away 5 Molton Brown 'Travellers.' To enter, ask a travel question here.

Thank you for entering. This contest is now closed.


Frequent FOFlyers, rejoice! You can look great and get through the gate with this adorable bundle of TSA-size-approved bath, body and hair products. Molton Brown's 'Traveller" bundle includes shower gel and lotion in Pink Pepperpod, "hairwash," "haircondition," hand cream (from their just-released Body Remedies Collection for 2011) and moisture mist.

Molton Brown salon opened London in 1973 and became an instant hit for it's "natural," finger-styled cuts--a reaction to the structured styles of the 1960s. Their plant-based products were hand-mixed in a kitchen upstairs and sold only to those "in the know." Today, their complete line of luxury products for body, skin, hair, men, home and travel is available in the U.S. and over 70 countries as well as many of the world's luxury hotels and spas.
–


Ask the FOF gurus a travel question here and you'll be entered to win a Molton Brown 'Traveller.' Five FOFs will win.

(See all our past winners. See official rules. Five winners are chosen at random from all those commenters who answer the question. Contest closes May 18, 2011.)
0 comments   
13January   {Exercise} 9 Top Trainers for FOFs
Meet the country's best butt-kickers. Here are 9 trainers FOFs call on to get (and keep) in shape:


1. Erica Akemi Shepherd at The Pilates Company, Woodinville, WA
FOF KatieF says, “She's beautiful inside and out and a tough and fun trainer. Her studio, The Pilates Company of Woodinville, offers a variety of programs: BASI Certified Pilates, a Pink Ribbon Program for Cancer Survivors, Mommy and Me Pilates, and Tracy Mallet's Booty Barre."

2. Laura Dixon at Harmony Mind Body Fitness, Chicago, IL
FOF Susan Dixon says, “Laura is a one-of-a-kind Pilates trainer. She has a background in dance and Stott Pilates Method as well as certification in Gyrotonics, Gyrokinesis, and XtendBarre. She is quick to understand your strengths and weaknesses and will work one-on-one with you to help you improve your physical condition."

3. Sherry Stewart, St Louis, MO
FOF janis0314 says, “Sherry is an FOF, so she knows that there are special needs for women and men over 50. She takes extra special care to make sure you have a well-rounded workout within your limitations. Sherry is also the best personal example--not a 'Do what I say, not what I do' trainer."

4. Donna Perone, New York, NY
FOF Terry Perl says, "I've been working with Donna for more than 6 years. What I love is, she doesn't just do what's trendy. She focuses on functionality, flexibility, balance and strength. She's not trying to make you into a 100-pound teenager, she's trying to help you stay moving and keep your joints and bones in shape. Thanks to Donna's workouts I am stronger, I have muscles, I can go up and down stairs better and I don't say 'ooph' when I stand up from a squat! Every woman could benefit from a trainer like her. Plus, she's an FOF herself!"

5. Ernestine Shepherd, at Energy Fitness Center, Randallstown, MD
FOF elegantlady63 says, "This woman is incredible and the greatest inspiration ever. She is 74 years old with the energy and body of a 20 year old. She is a champion bodybuilder and has won trophies all over the world. She teaches classes at Energy Gym and several Senior Centers in Baltimore."



6. Michelle LeFleur at St.Joseph's/Candler Health System, Savannah, GA
FOF Susan H says, "I have always hated exercise even though I know it's good for me. I've had other trainers but it was not until I met Michelle at Candler Wellness Center in Savannah, that I understand how a good trainer can make a difference. I started with Michelle to help lose weight and get strength back in my legs after multiple surgeries. She helped me develop a training program I like and feel good about. Knowing that she's waiting for me at the gym makes me look forward to working out. Best of all, she's introduced me to water exercise. When I'm in the pool, I can move my knees like there's nothing wrong with them. Michelle is not only a trainer, she's become a friend, motivator and cheerleader for every ounce of weight I lose and every ounce of strength I gain."

7. Jane Trahan, Baton Rouge, LA
FOF sharon k says, "Jane is amazing. She actually makes me laugh out loud while I'm working out. She has been my trainer for over two years now--the longest time I've ever stuck with a program--because she varies the routine and keeps it interesting. I have joint issues and Jane has adapted her program to work with my joints. She has kept me more active and healthy than I've ever been!"

8. Josh Simmons at Forma Gym, Walnut Creek, CA
FOF merrittinmartinez says, "Josh is a trainer and a massage therapist who has taken me from an injured lump to a long distance cyclist. He can 'kick your butt' kindly while modifying moves to accommodate injuries. Oh, and he's not hard on the eyes, either!"

9. Pam Roth at Fast Track to Fat Loss, online
FOF mjk1256 says, “Pam is part of the Fast Track to Fat Loss team. She is always online to answer any questions and suggest great ideas for success with diet and exercise. She has really become a friend as well as a trainer for the past few months. I'm 71, I started out in size 12 jeans and now wear an 8."



Do you have a trainer you love and want to recommend? Click here to add him or her to Fab Faves now!
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06January   {City Guide} Top Second-Hand Spots from Coast to Coast
Are you an Old Digger?

From a 1992 Armani Suit to a 1952 Chanel handbag, second-hand finds are a savvy FOF's best friend. Here are 11 tried and true spots that FOFs turn to for timeless treasures.




1. William Temple, Portland OR
Portland's better-vetted, lower-priced version of Goodwill sells furniture, vintage clothing and housewares. Proceeds support William Temple House's mental health counseling, emergency social services and pastoral services. FOF Lisa Johnson says, "I love shopping at William Temple, a wonderful thrift store in Northwest Portland that my daughter turned me on to."


2. Boomerang, Jamaica Plain, MA
FOF deeptodeep says, “My favorite place to shop is Boomerang, a large neighborhood thrift shop whose profits benefit Aids Action Committee. I find wonderful clothes there as well as cool assorted household items such as brand new West Elm sheer linen curtains that were $6 per panel (I purchased all six!) The stock changes constantly so there are always surprises and the potential for a score."


3. Albright Fashion Library, New York, NY
FOF Linda Rodin says, "I love the Albright Fashion Library. Everyone from a Meryl Streep to a runway model goes there to get clothes for events. If you have your eye on a $20,000 designer dress, you can rent it at Albright for $2,000 a night. Or rent a Hermes handbag if you want to look groovy for a weekend."


4. GreenFlea Market, New York, NY
FOF micheled says, “"I find great deals at a fabulous flea market on 77th St. and Columbus Ave. I bought a Tiffany vase for 5 dollars there. It had some discoloration on the bottom, but I fixed it up with a green pen. I also found a gorgeous black velvet cape lined in white with a hood and a pocket for gloves. I purchased this little gem for about $45 have used it over the years."


5. The Antiques Garage Flea Market, New York, NY
FOF Audgar says, “My absolute favorite place for a great deal is the flea market on W. 25th St. on Saturdays and Sundays! Grab a cup of coffee and get there early!"

6. Regal Rags, Annapolis, MD. 410.224.3434
FOF Sue S. says, “This small, consignment shop just outside of D.C. re-sells only designer clothes. No one ever wants to wear their designer duds twice, with all the fancy affairs in D.C., so here they are...worn once and some with tags still on. And, the prices are unbelievable; I bought a beautiful Ralph Lauren sweater (with the tags still on) for 5 dollars!"

 

7. House of Lavande, Palm Beach, FL
FOF Mary Nedvins says, “"Every piece of jewelry there has a history.  The pieces are classic but carry an emotional reference to eras of days gone by.  And I know that no one else will be wearing what I'm wearing."

 

8. Trashy Divas, New Orleans, LA

FOF Marybeth Bond says, "When I was writing my book, 50 Best Girlfriends Getaways, so many women told me 'We love to go to thrift shop with our girlfriends. We take $10 and try to get something really funny for the other person.' In New Orleans there’s no place like Trashy Divas on Magazine Street."

9. Couture Allure, online. 617.281.8133
FOF Debra J. Bartgis says, "I met the owner, Jody on eBay seven or eight years ago. She's very discriminating, her clothes are unique and she's an extremely helpful seller. She will give you her opinion if she doesn't think something is right for you."

10. Rusty Rose Vintage Clothing, Solvang, CA. 805.688.8031
FOF joanspeirs says, “Sometimes I find the best deals on eBay, but it can be time consuming. I prefer to go to my favorite second hand/vintage clothing store Rusty Rose."

What's your fave place to shop second-hand? Click here to add your Fab Fave Shop.
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