I’m talking about carry on bags. Many passengers prefer to carry on as opposed to checking luggage for various reasons: fear of lost bags, wanting to avoid an extra charge to check or, hey, there’s no need because you’re traveling light, right? But that’s just it, a lot of you aren’t and you’re taking up more than your allotted space on the aircraft and slowing down the whole damn process. It is so inconsiderate.

Just because you have kids, does that entitle you to a lot of extra space in the overhead compartments? I don’t have a kid, and I get that there’s some extra stuff you need, but I see a lot of parents pushing the boundary, hauling multiple huge and overstuffed bags. (As in, more than the allowed amount for themselves and each of their darling children.) How many iPads, toys, snacks, diapers, bottles and, what, breast pumps, do you need or a four hour flight? And it’s not just parents. Please take note, on Air Canada you’re allowed ONE carry on that measures up to 23 by 40 by 55 centimetres and ONE personal item, like a purse or a briefcase that measures up to 16 by 33 by 43 centimetres.

I know everyone is crazy busy. (Isn’t that a badge of honour nowadays? I blame hours lost to Facebook.) But please take the time to check the type of aircraft you’ll be boarding and be sure that your “carry on” will fit under that seat in front of you or overhead. Because when it doesn’t and it has to then be checked it holds the rest of us up.

And when you’re boarding in zone 5 and you arrive to find the space above your seat is already full, please seek out the owner of any belongings you are about to reorganize before doing so. On yesterday’s flight another passenger kindly did so rather than plopping his heavy carry on atop my laptop case. But then he asked if it was ok if he just squished my Prada purse into the tiny sliver of space leftover. Um, no. That’s Prada. And it was there first. Plus my homemade chicken sandwich is inside!

Oftentimes the airline employees at the gate are also to blame as they don’t consistently check the size of bags people are dragging on. Last June Air Canada promised a crack down on carry on bags, but if yesterday’s flight is any indication that crack down didn’t last long.

We can bitch and complain all we want about high density aircrafts and shrinking seats and storage space, but until we all refuse to fly, the responsibility to fly by the rules will begin with us as passengers. I actually think airlines should charge for any carryon beyond a purse or briefcase and ease up on the checked bags fees.

Or I know, just include all bag fees in the price of the ticket to begin with. It might speed up the whole process and we’d all arrive a little sooner and little more sane.

Safe and on time arrivals to all this March break.

After landing in Palermo and picking up a car (which I highly recommend) our first stop was the popular beach town of Cefalu. Be sure to hike to the top of La Rocco, a rocky outcropping that towers over the town. 

Cefalu was a must stop for me because one of my favourite movies was shot here, Cinema Paradiso.  We stumbled upon a wedding in the town square where the bride and her entourage arrived on horseback! 

Below is the view from our room at the Riva Del Sole hotel, right on a promenade.  A short walk to the old town but more importantly, it’s reasonably priced and has its own parking, not to mention beautiful sea views.

Dine at one of the many restaurants that jut over the shoreline (frankly, they’re a bit interchangeable in terms of food) but the sunsets are spectacular.

CAPO D’ORLANDO

Another quaint beach town, this one with the most exquisite beach. I was confused for a moment – were we in Hawaii? In fact, many parts of Sicily were much more lush and tropical than I expected.  

We stopped for lunch here, where I had a delicious plate of burrata (which was bigger than a baseball) and prosciutto.  Who needs bread?!

TAORMINA

The highlight of the trip was the town of Taormina, perched on a cliff over-looking the sea, a la Portofino.  I highly recommend the Panoramic hotel – the view from our room definitely lived up to the name.

If you’re staying closer to the sea, you can walk up to the old town (a sweaty 20 min) or take the gondola.  Restricted to vehicle traffic between the main gates, the old town has an abundance of cafes, restaurants and boutiques along Corso Umberto, the main street.

Be sure to visit the ancient Greek theatre, which is still being used today for live events and performances.

One of our favourite meals was at the family run restaurant Da Giovanni, right across the street from our hotel. I had a delicious scampi risotto… I think.  I was paying more attention to the view!

SIRACUSA 

Siracusa on Sicily’s southeast coast is a city rich in history.  Isola di Ortigia – the island of Ortigia within Siracusa – is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and home to many of the area’s most beautiful churches, squares and other attractions.  I love the Moorish influence seen on some of the architecture, as on the burgundy building below.

The main square is truly spectacular, and what was most surprising was how quiet it was. It was so enjoyable to be in an European town that wasn’t completely overrun by tourists.

Hotel Cavalieri is a 19 room boutique hotel in a renovated palazzo.  It’s a short walk from the Ortigia area and a welcome oasis from the blistering sun.

Ciao Sicily, until next time!

PS. Yes, we did see Mt Etna, but only from afar.

So don’t miss my appearance on the CBC talk show Steven & Chris (just renewed for a new season!) coming up at 2pm on March 31st, when I reveal my must have travel items to get you from here to there with ease, comfort and of course great style.

Put it in your calendar!

To date I’ve visited numerous all-inclusives, a number on the Riviera Maya, in Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, Dominican Republic and now most recently, the Secrets resort in Huatulco. Here’s what I’ve learned.

READ RECENT REVIEWS

Before my last trip, I spent some time on Trip Advisor reading reviews from recent guests. I learned that the beach had a lot of sand fleas and that the resort was full of mosquitos. As a result I packed my bug spray and boy was I happy I did.

TALK TO OTHER GUESTS

As a bit of an introvert, I’m not one to strike up a conversation with those lounging by the pool beside me. But it can pay to do so. By talking to a fellow beach walker we learned about another secluded beach, one we wouldn’t have found on our own. By chatting with our pool neighbours, we learned about a local boat tour operator who’s known for finding the best fishing holes. (Unfortunately, the weather turned windy and we weren’t able to go out.)

CONSIDER UPGRADING

One downside to the “free” alcohol is that the wine is usually bad (though you can buy better stuff by the bottle) and the booze watered down. Upgrading to what’s often called a “prestige” or club level usually gives you a better room and access to a special lounge, stocked with all manner of snacks and spirits. A good place to spike that drink, or simply get away from the crowds. Such upgrades can also give you access to certain parts of the pool or beach.

TIP

I said you don’t need to pull out your wallet once you arrive.  One exception.  Having a stash of American $1 bills on hand is wise. Tip your wait staff, bartenders and maids etc. It’s expected and it can help you get better service.

SAVE YOUR SEATS

The posted signs all say you can’t save your pool and beach loungers for more than half an hour, but everyone ignores this. So take a nice stroll to the pool or beach before breakfast and plop down some towels. But do just take one towel, not two or three per person. There were a few days when there were no towels available for a time due to some greedy guests.

NEGOTIATE 

Most all-inclusives do have some small shops on the property. But just because you’re not in town, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t negotiate, especially at Mexico’s ubiquitous silver shops. I got bought a lovely silver bracelet for 45% off the first quoted price.

Have any more all-inclusive tips, do share! I’m already dreaming of next year’s vacation.

It was 2am. We’d just arrived in Maui after a 6-and-a-half hour flight. I was recovering from pneumonia. We’d been anticipating and needing this vacation for months.

My boyfriend had bought a week at a “luxury Maui condo” at a charity auction several months earlier. What a great excuse to get away. It’s for the children after all! After struggling to find a week that worked with our and the condo owner’s schedule we squeezed in a week just before the “prize” was to expire.

Upon discovering the mouldy construction zone, it wasn’t like we could just complain and get a new room. Condo, remember? No matter how loud we screamed, no one was listening and the money was gone months ago.

So, what to do? Our first thought was to just make the best of it. The money was spent dammit. We got in our rental car and drove over to the all-night-mart in search of booze. Surely vodka mixed with my pneumonia meds would create a haze and make this better. It turns out you can’t buy alcohol at a grocery store in Hawaii after 11pm. And it was way past that. We returned to Shitsville with a can of Pringles and bottled water. As I drifted off to sleep I wondered if the comforter had been washed and hoped things would look better in the light of day.

They didn’t. And that’s when we decided that “making the best of it” didn’t have to mean staying put.

Sometimes in life you just have to bite the bullet. Sometimes you just have to grab hold of the moment, do what gives you pleasure and pay the consequences later (read: credit card bill). Maybe it’ll mean we spend our next vacation at home, but it will have been worth it. Because instead of staying in Hell, we packed ourselves up and moved to a 5-star hotel at the other end of the island. As I type this I’m sipping my morning latte and enjoying a fantastic view.

Vacations can be a lot of work. Most of the getting there isn’t any fun. If you’ve got kids in tow, ensuring everyone is packed properly, fed and happy is an ongoing battle. Lost luggage, crappy accommodations, bad weather, getting sick, lost or things just not working out the way they’re supposed to makes people grumpy and that’s when the bickering begins. Are we having fun yet?

My advice is, if things aren’t going according to plan on your trip, take action to make the best of it. Maybe that means booking a day to yourself, away from the family, to go explore your locale. Maybe it means giving yourself the freedom to sit and do nothing. Maybe it means lighting a scented candle (I often do this when staying in sterile hotel rooms) or maybe it means treating yourself to a nice meal or changing hotels. Personally, I’d rather take half as many vacations and actually go to places and do things that make me happy. Otherwise I’m perfectly satisfied to stay home.

If you ever find yourself at a charity event bidding on a vacation, read the fine print. How long is it good for? Are there black out periods and will you be able to use it before it expires? Is it cheaper than what you’d pay if you just book it yourself? Is there anyone to complain to if things don’t turn out to be as promised? Only bid on vacations where accommodations are clear. That is, at a specific hotel that you know and not something broad like “luxury accommodations”. General terms like that are a red flag.

In this case our lessons learned have turned into the vacation I dreamed of only better, because of what will be funny memories. As I cut coupons and eat Kraft dinner for the next few months, I’ll think of the warm Maui breezes, afternoon mai tais and the endless ocean view and I will smile.

I was tagging along at a conference and we stayed at The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Arguably, there really is no other hotel in Banff. It is a storied, iconic and rambling old place complete with dark corners and stories of ghosts. I have stayed at the Springs many times over the years and there is a vast assortment of room configurations, sizes and locations. So my recommendation is to request to see your room before you accept it (some travelers do this when checking in to any hotel). Also, go online and join the Fairmont President’s Club for the best chance of an upgrade or extras.

Of course, the Banff Springs Hotel is at the top end of the pay scale. If you’re not actually staying there, you can still enjoy it. Book a treatment at the exceptional Willow Stream Spa and enjoy the series of pools, steam room and sauna. Then have a nosh and a cocktail at the hotel’s Rundle Lounge and enjoy the spectacular view.

Fortunately, Banff has several other more affordable options. Fox Hotel and Suites is located in downtown Banff and Hidden Ridge Resort is just a free shuttle ride away. Both are comfortable and family friendly.

To be frank, Banff is not a gastronomical destination. But there are plenty of places that serve a good meal after a day of fresh air. When you’re hungry for a nice piece of meat, hit The Maple Leaf or Saltlik. Good coffee and a sandwich can be found at the Wild Flour Bakery and Cafe. For after dinner drinks and live music, stop in at St. James Pub and good God don’t leave Banff without having a Beaver Tail.

What to do with your activity time in Banff really depends on the time of year. In the winter, there are multiple alpine ski hills to choose from which are known for having champagne powder. And at any time of year a trip to Lake Louise to either ski, hike, canoe or wander is a must do at least once in your life. Again, the beauty will shock you.

A writeup about Banff would not be complete without a recommendation on what to pack. Believe me when I tell you anything is possible with the weather, no matter the season. Last week it looked like Christmas. Pack layers. Pack a sweater even in August because this is the Canadian Rockies. And pack light hiking boots even if the most exercise you’ll be doing is fitting in with the locals.

Heritage Avenienda Liberdade Hotel, Lisbon

The Heritage Avenieda Liberdade hotel, located on the breezy boulevard Avenieda Liberdade in the Modern City, is centrally located and just a short walk to many of Lisbon’s sights.  Rooms are reasonably priced, especially in comparison to accommodations in most other European capitals, and a fair bit more spacious.  Staff is helpful and courteous and if you don’t want to pay for breakfast, (14 Euros) grab a coffee and omellette or a baked treat right across the street at one of the local coffee shops.

 My Room 

EAT AND DRINK 

Seafood lunch at The Mix Restaurant, Farol Design Hotel, Cascais

Lisbon is chalk full of eateries at a myriad of price points.  I suggest avoiding the touristy places: you know the ones, with lack luster pictures of their dishes displayed on placards and maitre d’s pestering all passersby to come in and eat. 

Mercado da Ribeira

For a quick lunch, snack or dinner, head to the Mercado da Ribeira.  An old fish market turned into a stylish gourmet food fair, you won’t be able to decide what to sample first. You’ll find seafood, local specialties, healthy snacks, pastries and even Asian dishes. (The Portuguese are very big on sushi.) This is a great place to come if you need to satisfy a number of appetites and cravings. 

Nosta de Degustacao is a romantic gem tucked away on quiet street on route to the Castillo.  Tiny, with jazz music playing quietly in the background, the food is lovingly prepared by a charming chef who came out to ensure everything was to our liking.  One of the best meals of the trip. I’m still dreaming about the fresh fig and cheese salad.

View from Barrio Alto Hotel Bar, Lisbon

For drinks, look upward.  After a recommendation from a nattily dressed salesperson in a local shop, we enjoyed a drink at the Barrio Alto Hotel Bar on the 7th floor.  Some of the city’s best bars are on located on rooftop decks, making for great views and a welcome escape from the crush of tourists below.  

Pasteis de Nata to go 

There are a few must try indigenous specialities, Port wine being the first and most obvious choice.  In addition, don’t miss the also popular digestif Ginga – a liqueur made from sour cherries.  (Not as sweet as it sounds. I quite enjoyed it.)  Also, you likely won’t get through Portugal without sampling a pasteis de nata, an egg tart pastry and the country’s most famous treat.  They’re on every breakfast table, in every bakery and pre-packed, as per above, ready for your suitcase home. 

DO 

Lisbon

Perched on a number of steep hills (7 historically, though in modern times that number has grown) Lisbon is very walkable, as long as you’re wearing the right shoes. (Birkenstocks were ubiquitous.) My favourite thing to do there (and in any foreign city) was simply to wander the twisty turny streets to take in the views, the atmosphere and the charm.  Ladies forget the heels. The small cobblestones will end you. 

In the evening, the city is teeming with revellers.  When it comes to live entertainment, Fado is to Lisbon what Country is to Nashville.  If you don’t go to listen some of this traditional soulful and angst-filled music, you’re missing out.  I recommend reserving a table and having dinner at a Fado club.  (You can also go in just for drinks but expect to pay a cover charge.) 

EXCURSIONS – SINTRA 

Sightseeing in Sintra

40 minutes by train from Lisbon’s Rossio station takes you to Sintra, a storybook village tucked away inland.  Regardless of the weather in Lisbon, bring a sweater or jacket.  Sintra has its own microclimate and it can be substantially cooler here.  You’ll note the fog in the background above.  I learned this the hard way and was freezing in my shorts and blouse.  

Quinta de Regaleira, Sintra

In addition to exploring the town itself, there are a number of castles, mansions and parks to see in Sintra.  My favourite is Quinta de Regaleira, the somewhat spooky gothic style mansion built in the early 20th century.  I preferred it to the Castillo at the top of the hill which was teeming with tourists.  For lunch, try the charming restaurant at the Lawrence’s hotel.  

CASCAIS

Cascais Beach

Just a quick train or cab ride west of Lisbon takes you to the coastal town of Cascais, a popular summer and weekend getaway for Lisbon city folk and other well-heeled Europeans. Stay at the Farol Design Hotel, just a short walk outside of the town center, with gorgeous views and superior service.  (Just stay clear of room 210.  Lovely though the decor and view was, it had a pervasive sewage smell and we had to ask to be moved.) 

Farol Design Hotel, Cascais

Cascais is as pretty as it is busy.  Dinner reservations are recommended during high season.  We stumbled upon what was one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had at the Pizzeria Il Sicilano.  For dessert, head to Santini Gelato. Established in 1949, this is the most famous gelato shops in Portugal.  (There are a number of locations.)  I had a dolce de leche type flavour and I cannot express to you how absolutely truly unbelievably amazing it was.  And that’s coming from a gelato aficionado. 

BUY

Portugal is a great place to stock up on leather goods at reasonable prices.  I had to restrain myself from coming home with yet another black leather jacket, though I was very tempted. Only 99 Euros!!  (Approx. $150) 

In addition to stocking up on Port or Ginga, Portugal is also known for its canned fish, particularly sardines. I know, doesn’t sound overly glamourous but check out the cool packaging above.  For the best selection, head to Conserveira de Lisboa, a stylish canned goods shop near the waterfront in Lisbon.  I picked up a number of cans to give away as gifts. (Anna, I hope you like trout pate??) 

A few more photos from this beautiful country! 

 A Lisbon Street

Cascais at Sunset

 Charming Streets of Cascais

Praca do Rossio Square, Lisbon  

Every year millions – yes millions – of people travel to catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa. I’ve been lucky enough to see her several times now. But as I stood at the back of the Mona Lisa crowd this time, I wondered how many of these people actually know (or care) why this masterpiece is so significant. Do I even know? It is the work of Leonardo da Vinci, I know that much. But really, what makes her so special?

And that got me thinking about other works of art, be they buildings, sculptures or other cultural icons that are some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. To test your knowledge of the facts and significance behind them, take my quick pop quiz:

1. Who is the Mona Lisa a portrait of?

2. Why was the Eiffel Tower built?

3. Rome’s Colosseum is the world’s most famous amphitheatre. It is best known for being used for gladiator contests. What else was it used for?

4. The Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States from the people of France. It is a symbol of freedom and justice. In her right hand she holds a torch, which signifies hope over despair. What does she hold in her left hand?

5. Italy’s Sistine Chapel is home to Michelangelo’s famous fresco paintings. Aside to being the most popular tourist attraction in The Vatican City, what else goes on here?

6. The first parts of the Great Wall of China were started over 2000 years ago and it is the longest structure ever built by humans. Why was it built?

7. Beijing’s Forbidden City was built between 1406 and 1420 and for almost 500 years served as the home of emperors. Today it’s a public museum that attracts millions of tourists every year. Why was it named the “Forbidden City” in the first place?

8. The Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt is one of oldest and largest statues in the world. It depicts a human head on an animal’s body. What type of animal?

9. The statue of The Little Mermaid sits in the water in Copenhagen, Denmark. The iconic statue is based on the fairy tale of the same name. Who is the author of that fairy tale?

10. And finally, what is it about the Mona Lisa that is so special?

To see how you did, the answers are below. Now your price of admission will really be worthwhile. And maybe I’ve inspired you to jump on an airplane! 

 Answers:

1. While it has been the subject of debate, the traditional view is that the Mona Lisa is a portrait of Lisa Gherardini – the wife of a wealthy silk merchant.
2. The eiffel tower was built as the entrance arch to the 1889 World’s Fair. It is named after engineer Gustave Eiffel, who’s company designed the tower.
3. The Colosseum was also used for animal hunts involving thousands of large animals like elephants and lions, battle re-enactments and public executions. At one time it was also used as a quarry.
4. In her left hand she holds a tablet with the date July 4, 1776. It represents and affirmation of the principles spelled out in the Declaration of Independence. 
5. The Sistine Chapel is also host to papal enclaves, during which cardinals gather to vote for a new pope. A special chimney in the roof broadcasts the election results, with white smoke meaning a new pope has be selected and black smoke indicating a new pope has not yet been chosen.
6. For protection from the north. 
7. The Forbidden City was so named because common people were forbidden to enter.
8. A lion.
9. Hans Christian Andersen.
10. The Mona Lisa is special for many reasons, but many agree it’s her haunting and enigmatic smile that needs to be seen in person to be fully appreciated.

Black Seed Bagels – Be prepared to wait in line with locals for what will probably be the best bagel you’ve ever had. A combination of traditional New York and Montreal styles, these babies strike a perfect flavour balance. Don’t leave this one off your list, even if you’re not a bagel person (which I usually am not).

Benoit Bistro – Serving up classic French fare, this Alain Ducasse institution will not disappoint. The room is old school so don’t expect the downtown cool kids to be hangin’ at the bar. Benoit is the perfect spot to have lunch after wandering around the nearby Moma or shops on 5th Ave. My simple mixed vegetable salad starter tasted fresher than fresh.

Bar at Nomad – Always hopping and always appearing full but somehow finding space for you, the bar at the Nomad hotel is the perfect spot for pre dinner cocktails. Not only for the vibe but also because the bartenders seriously know their stuff. It’s not easy to find a good margherita and here I tested several, just to be thorough!

Le Bernardin – If you have an occasion to celebrate, this three Michelin star hot spot is probably the top restaurant in New York right now. Reservations aren’t always easy to secure – just ask me. But never mind that. The lounge serves the full menu and seating is on a first come first serve basis. We sat at the bar and enjoyed every bite of the $135 tasting menu. The artichoke risotto is seriously to die for. This restaurant will satisfy the palette of even the most discerning foodie.

Il Buco – This casual East Village eatery embodies everything there is to love about Italian cooking. We enjoyed a plate of salami (made in house), a kale salad (best I’ve ever had. And I’ve had lots) and a bowl of simple pasta with asparagus, spring onions and bacon. burp. There is an extensive wine list with options for every budget and when ours took too long to arrive they opened a bottle of more expensive wine then we’d ordered and poured us each a full glass while we waited. That alone makes me a loyal customer.

Balthazar – One thing I love about New York is you can get a great meal at midnight. Balthazar in Soho is the place to do it. It’s always busy, it’s always the same and if there’s one thing I love in any restaurant it’s consistency. I recommend the Croque Monsieur (especially at midnight) or if you’re brunching it, the kitchen puts out the perfect French omelet.

Beauty & Essex – This bar and restaurant became wildly popular several years ago and despite the stagette crowd I saw doing rows of shots in the bar, B&E still promises a great time. Grilled cheese dumplings? You might need two orders of those bundles of goodness.

The Box – Only in New York. This exclusive live theatre and burlesque club is a must do at least once. But be prepared to be shocked – because that’s the whole idea. Expect a lot of female nudity, live music, cross dressing and in our case a trans-gendered strip tease dancer who peed on everyone in the front row. Thank god we weren’t sitting there as I’d have been none too pleased (especially considering I was sporting my fresh off the rack Balmain dress!) Shows don’t start until after 11pm and you won’t get through the door without a reservation. And don’t forget your credit card.

Taking a rest after dancing at the box

It seems the key to opening a successful establishment in New York is to give it a name that begins with the letter B. Although I do have one key addition to the list: Russ & His Daughters are the purveyors of fabulous smoked fish. It’s located in trendy Brooklyn, which starts with the letter B!