#Handmade leather menu covers

[ch-postal-company]

Gift Guide for the Paper-Loving Letter Writer

For those who may be wondering what to get for the papyrophiliac in their life or feels like treating themselves and doesn't know where to start, I have compiled a little inspiration list centered around all things paper and writing. The categories in this list will have you covered every step of the way from the desk to the Post Office. Enjoy!

Vintage pen:

Handmade stationery set:

Airmail envelopes:

Wax seal stamps:

Ink stamp set:

Washi tape bundle:

Decorative faux postage stamps:

Travel themed stickers:

Car decals:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/1405788738/usps-the-love-letter-express-decal?ref=collection_page&frs=1

Pins, jewelry, and brooches:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/1349204376/typewriter-pin-100-wooden?ref=collection_page&frs=1

Handmade leather boots:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/556714260/handmade-women-leather-shoesankle?ref=collection_page&frs=1&pro=1

Vintage-style leather messenger/mail bag:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/786479773/vintage-leather-satchel-purse-bag-with?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=leather+messenger+bag&ref=sr_gallery-1-9&pro=1&frs=1&sts=1&content_source=feebff1cf42fc0b69192a525b0f180c69d9a18da%253A786479773&search_preloaded_img=1&organic_search_click=1

Please remember to support small businesses and independent creators, NOT mega-corporations. Thank you!

[idkthisisjustforfanfic]

two years too late, chapter e i g h t

A gust of wind blew the door shut behind you, Alyssa pulled the hat off of her head and let out a groan. “Officially ready for spring,” she laughed. 

You rolled your eyes, with mid-January upon you, spring still felt like a far fetched dream--one with sunshine and flowers and maybe more kissing than winter. 

The Chelsea Market was always a fun Sunday afternoon adventure, but only if you stopped for a snack and felt up for handling the crowds of people, scarves wrapped around necks to shield from the winter air outside. 

You trailed behind Alyssa at first, meandering around the booths, glittering gold jewelry and beautiful pottery lined the counters, smiles from the hopeful merchants. 

“This is cute,” you cooed, picking up a signet ring and inspecting it closely. 

“Maybe your boyfriend will buy it for you,” she elbowed you in the side, her eyebrows raised in suggestion. 

“You’re so obnoxious,” you laughed, brushing her comment off like snow on your boots. “And uninformed, clearly.”

Alyssa had been bugging you about it for a while. Ever since he slept over, she’d been coming up with questions that only made you more nervous. You were not about to bother Harry with a conversation about labels or logistics. Instead, you felt rather content with just ignoring all of that and hoping for the best. After all, your important conversations track record didn’t look so good. 

“Oh come on, it’s not like he’s seeing anyone else.”

“You don’t know that,” you said casually, as if the thought didn’t make your stomach churn or your heart ache. 

“He spends most evenings in our apartment and a lot of his days in fittings or tour meetings or doing whatever he does. I don’t think he’s seeing anyone but you.”

You bit your tongue, not because you didn’t agree, but because you hoped she was right. The room was filled with other people hiding from the cold on the West Side, wandering around and inspecting tiny treasures. 

A tap on your shoulder. “Hi, sorry to bother you, uh--are you Y/N L/N?”

Your eyes pulled up from the necklaces you now held between your fingers, Alyssa’s head whipped around to inspect the source of the question. 

You didn’t get recognized often. While internet fame was something you dabbled in, your personal life was pretty untouched, meaning a trip to Chelsea Market wasn’t exactly the time you’d planned on seeing someone who read your stories. Hence the lack of make up and greasy hair up in a bun.

“Hi, yeah, how are you?” You stuck a hand out for her to shake excitedly, a beanie pulled over her head hid what seemed to be blonde curls. 

“I’m good, I don’t mean to interrupt, I just, uh, I follow you on _The Scoop _and online.”

“Oh thank you, thanks so much! What’s your name?”

“Courtney,” she smiled. “Nice to meet you. Could I get a picture?”

She shoved her phone over to Alyssa, who hid her surprise well when she held the camera up in front of you. 

“Say cheese,” she said, her tone rather flat and a forced smile on her face.

“Thanks so much,” Courtney looked over the photo quickly, shoving it back in her pocket when she deemed it was acceptable. “Nice to meet you, have a good one!”

She left as quickly as she’d shown up, Alyssa’s eyebrows arched when you turned to look at her. “Don’t get famous,” she shook her head. “That would be so annoying to have to deal with all the time.”

“She was nice,” you laughed, turning back to the jewelry. “At least she wasn’t awkward.”

“She was awkward,” Alyssa stared at you, her face contorted in a way that let you know she thought you’d lost it. “What about that wasn’t awkward?”

“Okay, you’re the one who rubbed your body all over that Spotify couch because you thought Harry sat there. You can’t judge her for wanting a photo or to say hi.”

“I was young and stupid,” she narrowed her eyes at you, brushing hair behind her ear when she moved to the next vendor: succulents and mason jars. 

“Right,” you rolled your eyes at her. “Speaking of, though--”

She looked back at you, her eyes expectant as you picked up a potted plant to look at the price. Fourteen dollars for a cactus? Nevermind.

“I, uh--I have a new assignment at work.”

“Yeah?” Her expression shifted, excitement in her eyes. “What is it?”

“An interview.”

“Of a person?”

“No of a plant,” you held the tiny cactus in her face. She shoved it away and made a face. “Yes a person.”

“Who?”

You looked around, thankful for the buzzing around you of people in coats and hats. “With him.”

“With Harry?” Her jaw dropped and she seemed to freeze in front of you when you nodded. “Uh--I know I don’t get the whole journalism thing but that seems, like, wrong...wasn’t the whole point of keeping it a secret so you didn’t get fired? How the hell are you going to manage that now?”

“I don’t really know,” you said honestly, putting the cactus back. Her eyes grew rounder at your quiet words. “But it gives me time to figure it out!”

She pulled you away from the vendor, her voice a whisper. “Does Carly know?”

“No! Whitney gave me the assignment last week--I haven’t, I don’t even really know how it’s gonna work yet.”

“Jesus, Y/N--this feels fucking risky.”

“Okay, thank you for the moral support.” 

You pulled your arm out of her grasp and threw your attention towards the handmade soaps at the next booth. 

“I’m sorry, I just,” she let out a sigh. “This is a big change.”

“I know,” you said. “He made a good point though: it would explain the photos of us. We can just brush it off that way, y’know? Say I’ve been with him for work, interview comes out, photos make sense, it all blows over.”

She tilted her head to the side, her bottom lip between her teeth in thought. “You better hope.”

You didn’t necessarily believe it would blow over, but saying it would seemed better than admitting this was getting out of hand. Like a web that was spun and now trapped you, your relationship with Harry and the ties to work felt like they were growing by the second. “Yeah, well, going to dinner with him tonight.”

“Dinner, like, out?”

“Yeah,” you nodded, a few steps forward, another booth, this one with lotion. “Somewhere uptown.”

“Jesus, I thought dating him was bad enough but now you’re going to be seen with him and you have to recognize how that is going to change things!” She was more animated now, her emotion elevated as the words tumbled out of her mouth.

You turned to look at her, straight faced and calm. “We’re not dating.”

“Right. Okay.”

“We’re just hanging out,” you whined a bit when she turned away from you, her hands now on a book as she flipped it over to read the back cover. 

“And making out,” she replied coolly, a lift of her eyebrows in challenge. 

“That too.”

She smirked at you from the corner of her eye, a reminder that while she loved you and wanted you to be happy, she also wanted this relationship to work out, for fear of what would happen if it didn’t.

**

He hadn’t given you any guidance on what to wear. Nice, he’d said, the chef was a friend of a friend, plenty of celebrities went and hopefully it wouldn’t cause much of a scene for him to be there. You only hoped that the black dress buried in Alyssa’s closet was good enough. 

So when you walked in to find a table in the back for two, far enough away from any other diners in the restaurant, a wave of relief washed over you and the emerald earrings that used to be your mothers. 

“Good?” He asked, pulling out your chair before you sat. 

“Yeah,” a nod. “Should be fine.”

“S’nice to actually, y’know, be out.”

More nodding, the nervous kind, when a waiter appeared with a drink menu and a napkin over his wrist--like they did in movies. You weren’t nervous to be with him, it was more just a nervousness that seemed to spike when you realized the way people looked at him in public, the wandering gazes and excited smiles. And maybe it was the fact that you were bare-legged in a wintry New York, the leather of Roger’s backseat cold against your legs when you had climbed in. 

But it was fine--glasses of wine were delivered to the table and you heard about the specials, wowed by the art on the walls and the dim lighting that made the room feel even more private. 

“You don’t think it’s too romantic for a work thing, right?”

You looked up from the menu. “Huh?”

He set his wine glass down, looking around the room. “The place--I mean, you think people will believe that we’re here to talk business?”

“Are we here to talk business?” You laughed at the look on his face, a goofy expression that reminded you of being kids, sitting across the table from him at Annie’s over a good fry up. 

“I mean, figured I owed you a proper date,” he laughed, the words lodging between your lungs and setting up shop, a trickle of anxiety like a leaky faucet.

“Doesn’t have to be a date,” you said quickly. “S’work, really, right?”

He cleared his throat, an awkward beat passed when you sipped your wine. A date would be nice. It wasn’t like you didn’t want it to be one. But the harsh reality of Harry leaving for tour in a few months seemed to loom overhead like a storm cloud on a summer afternoon--inevitable and threatening.

And besides, avoiding a label would make that break much cleaner, void of rubble or ramifications. 

“So, how does this work?”

“Well,” you shifted on your seat, thankful for a change in topic. “We have to talk about the direction.”

“The band?”

“No, the direction of the story,” you laughed. “I’m interviewing you. So what? What do we want to share that makes this different from all the others?”

“Oh,” a huff of air escaped his nose through a laugh before he let his eyebrows sink low in thought. “I dunno, where do you see it going?”

You hummed, eyes wandering from one portrait on the wall to another. He ran a hand through his hair but then set his elbows on the table, his gaze on you as he leaned in.

“Whitney said something about how I wouldn’t be impressed by fame--so I guess I have to take it in the direction of bringing you down to earth.”

“You don’t have to bring me down to earth, Smalls,” he twisted his face into a scowl, pretending to be offended when his fingers twisted around the stem of his glass. “M’already down here!”

“I think it’d be fun to do a piece that shows you as you.”

“What do you mean?”

A shrug of your shoulders. “The kid that I’ve known for ages--not just the funky pants and the hair.”

A gasp, “they’re fun!”

“They are fun,” you laughed, “but they’re not all of you.”

“So you want to show what’s underneath the pants,” he wiggled his eyebrows, lifting his glass to his lips and leaning back in his seat.

“No--what? You know what I mean,” you rolled your eyes, letting a sip of wine wash away the blush on your cheeks.

“Sure, sure,” he teased. “I mean, you’ve seen it, so.”

“Harry,” you leaned forward. “That’s a good example of the things you can’t say in public with me.”

“Right. This is strictly a professional relationship,” he gained composure, raising his voice so people around you could hear his declaration if they happened to be listening. He was cut off by a server, one who memorized your orders and kept the wine bottles coming. 

So you didn’t talk too much work--you mostly talked about Alyssa and Carly and listened to him detail his meetings and his ideas for the upcoming leg of tour. New cover songs, bigger venues. Just as many fun outfits. His eyes crinkled by the sides when you asked if he was excited, but his smile faded suddenly.

“Listen, I’ll be--I know it’s not ideal for me to leave--”

“S’fine,” you said, finishing off what was left in your glass, hoping the final sip would numb the ache in your chest at his words. “You’re going to have so much fun!”

“Right but we just--”

“The interview will be done by then,” you cut him off, as if his hesitation was about the story, not everything written between the lines.

“Smalls, I don’t mean that.”

“Oh.”

The waiter came and lifted the bottle off the table, pouring the last of it into your glass. Harry watched you, his eyes unreadable once you were left alone in the dim light, a candle flickered between you.

What did he expect from you? A confession of your love and a teary admission that you didn’t want him to go on tour? Work was work, you’d been left behind far too many times to not know the empty feeling by heart. 

“It’s still fine--we don’t have to like, have that conversation of what it means when you leave and what it means now.”

“We don’t?”

“No.”

Didn’t that conversation scare guys away? Didn’t it feel needy and overwhelming--especially when one of you was an international celebrity who probably didn’t need any strings attached? You weren’t about to be the small town girl with a big dream, you’d been her once before, she was a person you didn’t care to know. 

Maybe you were jumping to conclusions. Your heart beat slowed when he let out a sigh. 

“Back to my place? Watch a movie?”

You nodded, you’d been hoping he’d invite you. 

**

You stumbled in behind him, eager to kick your heels off once you grabbed hold of the wall. They clattered against the hardwood floor and he let out a laugh. “That bad?”

“Terrible.”

“Want socks?”

“Sure,” you dropped your purse on the floor and padded over to the couch, hoping if you got to the remote first, you’d be able to pick whatever film you’d pretend to watch.

“TV’s better in the bedroom for a movie,” he said casually, his voice disappearing down the hall as he walked to--you assumed--fetch the socks. You looked around the empty living room, the leftover pasta from his dinner in a paper bag on the counter. 

Celebrities bring home leftovers too, you thought. Good for the story. 

You stood up and ventured down the hall--you’d caught a glimpse of his bedroom before, only bits that were illuminated from the moon that shone through the window. This time, he flipped the lights on and walked over to a dresser.

“Do you keep clothes here even when you’re not?”

“Eh,” he shrugged, his voice high as he pushed a few pairs aside. “Basics. Socks, underwear, some work out stuff.” He tossed you a pair and turned to look at you, leaning against the edge of his bed. 

A mirror on the wall above, a telly that came down from the ceiling. Crown moulding and a beige carpet laid on top of the same wood that spilled in from the hallway. His bedroom was at least the size of your living room and kitchen combined. Big enough that a beautiful navy armchair sat in the corner, a throw blanket splashed over the side. 

“What’s your favorite thing about New York? Aside from that Thai place?”

He walked over to another armoire, one that stared back at the king-sized bed. He lifted a remote and pressed a few buttons, the TV lowered from a slot in the ceiling. “Who’s asking? Y/N the journalist or Y/N the girl in my socks?”

“We’re the same person,” you laughed, hoisting yourself up on top of the comforter, a stark white that smelled like traces of lavender and tuberose. 

He rounded the corner of the mattress, propping a pillow behind him when he climbed on, too. He kicked his shoes off, a floral patterned shirt was already unbuttoned low enough to expose flecks of black ink on his chest. 

“Roof deck upstairs is nice. Don’t go up there too much.”

You laughed, leaning over to shove him a bit. “Seriously. A restaurant, a super cool studio? New York must be filled with celebrity hot spots.”

He turned his head to look at you. “You want an exact location?”

“Sure.”

His fingers traipsed up to his lips, tugging at the lower one like you’d seen so many times. He let out a hum, a soft one that seemed to echo off the sheets. “Your living room.”

“My living room?”

“Yeah,” he said simply, his eyes flickered over to you.

“I can’t write that in the story.”

He laughed. “So that was Journalist Y/N asking.” A poke to your stomach before you retreated.

You rolled your eyes, leaning your head back on a pillow to stare up at the ceiling. “What do you wish people knew about your time in the band?”

He crossed his arms, another stoic stare into the distance. “I loved it, honestly. I think in the years since it’s been over there’s been a lot of talk about the things that were hard. But, it was still a lot of fun--despite all of the shit that came along with it.”

You looked up at him, he looked down at you. “Sounds like a robotic answer if I’ve ever heard one.”

“It’s true!” he laughed, his lips quirking up to a smile. “Meant every word of it.”

“I know you did.”

He scooted down on the bed, until he was laid beside you, your eyes on him and his on the ceiling. When he looked over at you, he smiled, his lips pulled up before he leaned in and kissed you, a hand on your waist.

You’d thought about having sex with Harry more times than you could count--not in a weird way,  just in that teenage crush turned celebrity way. By the time the fire of your teenage crush was put out, pictures of him were sprinkled over the internet, inescapable and hard to ignore. And then you had to listen to other people talk about wanting to have sex with him.

You never imagined it to be so comfortable, a laugh when he nearly elbowed you in the face, a giggle when a book fell off the nightstand.

You didn’t think it would feel so natural to lie on his chest and stare out the window in his bedroom, watching the sky spread towards Brooklyn. But it was better than you imagined. Real, tangible, and still slightly unbelievable. 

So instead of focusing on the voice in your head that felt like all of this was destined to crash and burn, you let him kiss your shoulder in the shower that night, beads of water dripping towards the drain like the anxiety you tried to ignore.

**

Carly seemed content with doodling flowers on the side of the staff meeting agenda sheet. You watched as her pen looped around the petals, down towards the stubby grass, back up towards  the sun she’d scribbled on the edge of the margin. 

Whitney was nodding continuously as Gabrielle explained the new lead she had on a long-standing project. All you could think about was your terribly unethical behavior.

It hadn’t really hit you at first. Not in the shower, not when you changed into a pair of his sweatpants. It didn’t even sink in when you ate breakfast in his kitchen and climbed into the backseat, Roger behind the wheel to drop you off at the office. 

It didn’t even begin to take form until long after you’d texted Alyssa and given some details--more over dinner tonight, you promised.

So maybe what did it was when you walked into the meeting to see a line of text on the agenda that made everything feel more real. 

Digital Department Updates: topics, stories, interviews, etc.  

Whitney loved to have the writers go around and share whatever new, exciting things they were working on. And while it normally felt like a good time to humble brag about fan mail or well-received stories, today it felt more like a set up. 

Carly had no idea about the interview and now, as of last night, you were officially sleeping with someone you were writing about. That added a whole new layer of nervous sweat to your forehead. So when Gabrielle finished her update and shifted slightly to offer you a smile, it took prompting from Whitney to make you talk.

“Y/N,” she smiled, “why don’t you let everyone know what you’re gearing up to work on.”

You smiled at her, wide eyes when you realized she wanted you to break the news to Carly. Right here, in front of everyone. Maybe it was your own fault. Maybe she assumed you’d already told her--after all, Whitney was missing a huge piece of context.

Sure, if Harry wasn’t someone you’d grown up with, wasn’t someone you had feelings for, and wasn’t someone you were now sleeping with, you’d probably have already told Carly that you  got a once-in-a-lifetime assignment. 

But the whole ethics mumbo jumbo seemed to blur some lines and make that conversation a bit more difficult. You let out a quiet laugh, wishing you could disappear into your sweater or melt into the floor. 

“Yeah,” you looked around the table, all eyes on you as you adjusted in your chair. “Lists are going well--great one the other day about obnoxious New Year’s resolutions.”

A few smiles from coworkers, you looked down the line of those who sat across from you, willing them to ask a question or change the subject--even someone suddenly having a heart attack felt like an unfortunate, yet welcomed, distraction.

“Great--big interview coming up, though, right?”

Your chest deflated a bit, Whitney’s excitement for you was pure and encouraging. She wanted to help you grow as a journalist and she was putting enormous faith in you by giving you this assignment. You only wished she’d entrusted you with a celebrity that wasn’t the one you were sleeping with. 

“Yes, yeah. I’m uh, I’m doing a story with Harry Styles.”

A few quiet gasps, Gabrielle seemed excited and Rachel--one of the interns--had eyes as wide as swimming pools. Carly’s head turned slowly, her gaze pulled up from the doodles on her paper to land on your face, her expression somewhat glazed over. 

“Huge!” Whitney smiled. “It’s going to be great! You’ve been in contact with his team? Someone reached out like his publicist said they would?”

“Yep,” you nodded, “was planning to fill you in this week in our one-on-one.”

“Great, can’t wait to hear about it,” she clapped her hands together. “Anything else?”

“No,” you shook your head. “S’all.”

You turned to look at Carly partly out of fear and guilt, but also because it was her turn to give the staff an update on her recent projects. She looked at you, her eyes unimpressed and her expression unreadable. 

“Right--me,” she parted her lips to speak and then shrugged her shoulders. “Not much is new. Wrote a story about Camila Cabello and she tweeted about it. That was cool.”

Carly seemed to look anywhere but at you--her eyes scanned the rest of your coworkers, down the line to Whitney at the head of the table. “Amazing, yeah. Any exciting things coming up?”

She pursed her lips, a thin line of disappointment. “Nope--nothing.”

“Well more will come,” Whitney smiled, her words an attempt at reassuring your friend. 

You could feel the resentment emanating off of her for the rest of the meeting--but it was especially obvious when you walked out behind her. Once you were far enough away from the conference room and the rest of the staff, you cleared your throat. “I think we should talk.”

“Good idea,” she turned around, her eyes narrowed. “Care to explain?”

“I was going to tell you!” You crossed your arms quickly, looking around to watch as people settled back into their cubicles. “I didn’t know she was going to put me on the spot like that. I would have preferred to tell you not in front of everyone else.”

“Well too late,” she shrugged. “Does she know? Is that why you’re doing a story on him?”

“No,” you tugged at her arm, pulling her back towards your desk and away from a marketing woman who passed by. “She has no clue--which is shitty, I know. I guess his team wanted to do some interview with a different outlet, she brought it up maybe a week ago.”

“And you’re doing it?”

A nod. She turned a corner around someone’s desk, you kept following her. 

“And you didn’t tell her that you grew up with him?”

“No! Carly, this is huge for me, okay? I know it’s fucked up and I know I’m a terrible person but she offered it to me and I couldn’t pass it up. You know I asked her for more news before Christmas.”

“I know,” she let out a sigh, slowing when she reached your cubicle. “I just--I don’t know, I kinda thought she would have asked me to do it knowing how much I like him.”

“Yeah,” you sighed, deciding to keep Whitney’s comment about professionalism to yourself. “I think she just wanted to throw me a bone and, besides, she figured I didn’t know much about him and I think she thought that would lend itself to a different take.”

She was quiet, watching as you went to sit at your desk. She leaned on the edge of your cube, another sigh escaping her mouth, she rolled her eyes back in her head as if she was about to become a puddle on the floor.

“Are you mad?”

She shrugged, made a face, and then laughed a little. “I’m jealous--I wish I had found out some other way than that. And I do think it’s kind of fucked up that you’re doing it. I mean, aren’t we supposed to be unbiased as journalists?”

You offered a challenging smirk. “And all of your stories about him have been unbiased?” 

“Being a fan is different than being a friend,” she wrinkled her nose at you.

You shushed her, waving a hand to calm her down. “Listen, I know. Maybe--I dunno--maybe you can come with me when I interview him one time and I’ll tell Whitney that you were a big help and,” you paused, unsure of where you were going with it. “You can help keep me unbiased.”

She laughed a little, her head tilting to the side. “You’d let me tag along again? I wasn’t too annoying the first time?”

“Annoying? I was prepared for you to be intolerable--and you were pretty put together, surprisingly.”

She pushed some hair over her shoulder, a metaphorical pat on the back. “I was pretty cool, wasn’t I?”

“I’m sorry I didn’t get to tell you first.”

“S’alright,” she shrugged. “But I wouldn’t hate being invited. I can ask him more questions and it’ll be work!”

“How exciting!” You teased.

“Hey, not all of us know everything there is to know about him.”

“You probably know more than I do.”

“Do you know that he eats his meals one food group at a time?”

You blinked a few times, “what? No--I’ve never noticed.”

“Huh,” she pulled her head back in surprise. “Maybe I know too much.”

**

You’d gotten a text from Harry that afternoon--an invitation to dinner at his apartment. 

Harry S (3:21pm): Just us. I’ll cook.

The sky was dark when you left work and the subway wasn’t nearly as comfortable as Roger’s leather backseat--but rides to work didn’t seem like something you should get used to. 

The doorman at Harry’s building opened the door for you with a smile, the security at the front desk handed you a post-it note with his handwriting on it. 

952347 - xx  H

You headed for the lift, only realizing what it was when you saw the keypad above the other buttons. You pushed the button for his floor, typed in the string of numbers, and watched as the light above turned green. 

He gave you the access code to his flat. 

You didn’t think much of it, not until he greeted you off the lift with a kiss, the scent of dinner wafting over from the kitchen. He had a glass of wine poured on the counter--his was over by the stove.

“How was work?”

“Fine--I told Carly about us.”

“About us?”

You clarified, immediately regretting your choice of words. “About me interviewing you.” 

“Oh,” he nodded, heading back to the stove to look at whatever was sizzling in the pan.

You shrugged out of your coat and hung it by the lift. “She took it fine. What are you making?” A change of topic felt necessary.

“She was fine? Really?” He stuck a spatula into the frying pan, pushing something around over heat. 

“I told her maybe she could tag along to one of our meetings.”

“Meetings? S’kind of hot.” He looked at you over his shoulder, his eyebrows shot North as if he was still in middle school. 

You leaned against the island now, your glass of wine in hand as he snickered to himself. It didn’t feel totally necessary to have the conversation--you know, the one post-sex where you  derive some sort of meaning from whatever just occurred. 

So you didn’t--you sat at the island and told him about your day, the way Whitney put you on the spot and the way Carly seemed more relaxed than you expected. He asked about the items on your desk. Stellotape? Pictures? A phone?

You told him more about Whitney, about the way she totally intimidated you at first and how one day you dreamed of having an office like hers. He smiled at you over plates of honey roasted chicken, you offered to do the dishes after.

And once you were sat on the couch, the news on as if you were just ordinary people, your phone buzzed with a FaceTime call from Jessie. 

“Why’s she calling?” You looked at him quickly, your heartbeat rising when he pulled his head back. 

“I don’t know--have you talked to her lately?”

“No--and it’s late there.”

You slid a thumb across the screen, a smile when you saw that she was laying in bed. “Hi, Jess--how are you?”

“Can’t sleep. Where are you?” She squinted at the new light from her screen, a yawn escaped her lips. 

You moved the phone to show Harry quickly. “At Harry’s. Just had dinner.”

“Oh,” she said. “Hi Harry.”

“Hi Jessie,” he leaned towards your shoulder and offered a grin. “What’s wrong?”

She let out a dramatic sigh. “Insomnia strikes again. What are you two doing, anyway?”

“Just hanging out,” you said, your tone so casual it almost sounded suspicious, even to you.

“Yeah?” She smiled a bit, the look on her face told you she was about to say something you wouldn’t like. “You should have a monopoly rematch.”

“I didn’t cheat!” Harry said quickly, a frown crossed his face when you looked up at him. 

His words immediately brought Jessie’s energy level up, she rolled her eyes and let out a sharp laugh. “Bullshit, Harry! You’ve always been rubbish at board games--there’s no way you beat all of us!”

“Maybe you just suck at buying property,” he said, his tone serious and his face still twisted--he threw in her full name for shock-value, “Jessica.”

“Okay--anyway--Jessie, maybe a good cuppa and a book?”

Another groan, she sighed and sunk deeper into her pillow. “I dunno--maybe.” She told you about a date she went on, a nice kid, good job. She reminded you that Adam’s birthday was in a week, only a few days before Harry’s. 

Soon enough she bid farewell, yawning into the camera and promising she’d catch up with you soon. You knew what it meant: you have to tell me why you’re hanging out with Harry. 

When you hung up the phone the room was quiet. The telly was on mute and Harry seemed to let out a yawn himself, a smile when you locked eyed. 

“You didn’t tell her anything, right?”

“No--did you?”

He shook his head. 

“Best to keep it to ourselves,” the words felt somewhere between a statement and a question, both woven together to fall out of your mouth and settle on the couch between you. 

You hoped for some type of signal from him, but he was quiet. “Are you okay with last night?”

He turned to look at you, anxiety crossed his face. “Yeah--I--are you?”

“Yeah--I just, kind of, y’know, takes it to the next level.” Your words felt clunky and articulate.

He let out a small laugh before he let his arm rest on the back of the leather sofa. “I guess so--is that bad?”

“No, s’not, I just--I don’t want you to feel like you have to, I dunno, be nice to me.”

“Smalls, have I ever not been nice to you?”

It was your turn now to lift your brows, a challenging look in his direction as you adjusted beside him.

“Never mind,” he laughed. 

“I just mean--we don’t have to, y’know, make a big deal of it.”

A nod. “You don’t want to make a big deal of it,” his tone mirrored yours, not a question, not a statement, somewhere in the middle. 

“Nothing to overthink, yeah?”

“Yeah.”

Maybe you said it more for yourself and less for him. For the knot in your stomach or the rush in your veins. For the girl who was fifteen and wishing he’d come home, the girl who knew he wouldn’t. Nothing to overthink. 

You repeated it to yourself on the way home, the uber you insisted on calling when you wondered if Roger had a family. If you were going to ride around in the back of his car, you figured it’d be best to learn that sort of thing. 

Nothing to overthink. 

You said it four times to Alyssa when she caught you in the doorway, trying to sneak in without a sound, knowing you bailed on a roommate dinner date. She had sleepy eyes, but she didn’t seem mad. 

Her eyes closed as she laid on your bed_. You pulled on sweatpants._

I can’t believe you slept with him, she said.

I can, you told her. 

Nothing to overthink.

read the other parts here

come talk to me about tytl

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[small-business-of-the-week]

This week’s small business is: RUSTIC AURA

rusticauraart.com

From the Rustic Aura website: “Rustic Aura by Natalie Chanel is a creative brand that creates one of a kind handmade art, fashion and home decor items. The primary mediums used are art resin, ceramics, dried moss, paint, textiles and collaging.” Rustic Aura is a black-owned business based in South Carolina. 

Products: earrings, wall art, mixed media art, drink coasters, fabric headbands, home decor, journals, resin petri dishes, cheese/cutting boards

Price range: $14 (earrings, coasters) - $275 (original art)

Accessibility:

Mobile friendly ✔️: Website is easily navigated on a smartphone.

Images described ⚠️: Product image descriptions are the product name. Product descriptions and names provide some visual information, but not a full description.

High contrast ⚠️: Some button and header text is low contrast, but most text (product descriptions, menu items) are not.

Keyboard control ✔️: Website is easily navigated by keyboard.

No flashing lights or images ✔️: Images remain static.

No distracting and bright colors ✔️: Color scheme uses simple colors.

Shop these products and more at Rustic Aura!

[ID: Two images of products from Rustic Aura:

The first is “In the Beginning,” a shape of Africa made of various types of green to beige mosses.

The second is “Journal,” depicting a journal with a cover decorated with various paper and leather elements. The papers have different prints and are in white, tans, pinks, and blues with dark brown leather elements present as well. The focal point of the cover is 4 triangles made of dark brown leather on top of the layered paper.

\end ID]

[hollowgroverp]

“I’m Mayor Novak and I’d like to welcome you to the 32nd annual Spring Fling! Today we have twenty-one very charitable suitors who have willingly offered up their day for a wonderful cause. The Displaced Children’s Fund, to support supernatural children displaced by the cruelties of our world is a cause close to so many of us. All proceeds from today’s event will go to the fund. Now settle in and will begin the bidding momentarily….”

Below the cut you will find the 21 baskets that were submitted for the event. Bidding will take place until SUNDAY MAY 26th, at which point the bidding will close and then I will pair up the bids with basket. We will do my best to ensure everyone gets matched up with someone. If you would like a certain pairing based on plot reasons let me know and we can see what can be done to make it happen. If you have multiple characters I will do my best to ensure at least one of your characters gets paired for a basket.

How to bid: Comment on this post with your characters name and their three bids. If you bid you must place three bids to ensure we can make proper pairings. ex: Sophia Greyson bids on basket 1, 4, and 15. If you do not follow the bidding rules ie: you bid once or you send an ask, your bid will not be considered.

When will the picnics take place: Picnic dates, can take place any time after bidding concludes on Saturday (in game), this includes during the event or post event. These threads can carry on after the event ends but we encourage you to reach out to your pairing and plot.

                                 FINALLY, HAVE FUN WITH IT!

Baskets

Basket One submits a black wicker picnic basket with a red ribbon tied into a bow to hold the handles closed. Inside you’ll find the following: fresh baked bread from the bakery, a blueberry pie from the bakery, a can of whipped cream, a cold roast chicken, a bottle of decent red wine, atop a soft dark blue flannel blanket, and cutlery and plates.

Basket Two submits a wicker basket with red and gold pattern cloth lining the base and two matching silk ribbons tied in bows at the base of either side of the handle. Inside you’ll find the following: two glass bottles full of honey (some honeycomb included), several small pots filled with edible berries, strawberries, gooseberries, blackberries) and several more filled with edible plants: fireweed, daylily petals & chicory; attached is a small card with ‘all sourced from the local forest.

Basket Three submits a watermelon shaped and colored vintage basket with a white rose laying on top. Inside you will find: a deck of Uno cards, Twister, whip cream, two bowls of fresh fruit salad, a bottle of white wine, two homemade pepperoni pizzas, a fluffy blanket, two pairs of ridiculous looking sunglasses, one heart shaped and one alien shaped.

Basket Four submits a black wicker basket with a red bow. Inside you will find: A Fully white blanket rolled up next to a bouquet of white roses, two bottles of red wine, two crystal glasses, a cheese plate with different kinds of cheese, grapes, a box of Belgian chocolates. As well there are two envelopes in it, one red and one back with a note ‘your choice conquers all’.

Basket Five submits a black and gray duffel bag. Inside you’ll find the following: a black and white checkered flag, a pair of black leather driving gloves, a black leather jacket, sunglasses, and a menu for a lavish casino that offers exclusive dining services. Foods such as lobster, steak, pasta, and various delicacies are described in detail for you to choose from. The option to enjoy a private table outside on the balcony is circled in red, and a few casino chips worth one hundred dollars each have also been thrown into a side pocket.

Basket Six submits a large, insulated picnic basket with bright red fabric and black trimming. Inside you’ll find the following: double chocolate banana muffins, two berry parfaits in glass jars, a mix of colorful fruits, deviled eggs, two ham and cheese croissants, lemon bars, and two water bottles. A brochure for a zoo a few miles out from town is placed with the food, along with two certificates for a behind-the-scenes tour that includes a chance to meet some of the animals.

Basket Seven submit a brown wicker basket with a ribbon attached to the handle bearing sigil of House Mormont. Inside is a cherry pie, two chocolate pudding cups, a gift card to the local bowling alley, a bottle of whiskey with two solo cups, a copy of A Hitchiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, a box of cards against humanity, and a red blanket.

Basket Eight submits a brown picnic basket lined with a green apron that reads “Kiss Me, I’m Irish”. Inside you’ll find the following: two cans of Guinness, a loaf of Irish soda bread, and a box of Butler’s Irish Whiskey Truffles.

Basket Nine submits a brown wicker basket lined with a light brown scarf. Inside you’ll find the following: fancy chocolates, a bottle of red wine, and two glasses.

Basket Ten submits a classic wicker basket lined with red cloth. Inside is a container of fruit salad, assorted sliced cheeses, meats, and crackers, some homemade pizza bagels, and a six pack of beers. For dessert, everything needed for s'mores.

Basket Eleven submits a chestnut brown willow basket with a single rose resting on top. Inside you’ll find the following: A jug of bourbon punch, a bottle of white zinfandel, a folded red blanket, two steaks, antipasto skewers, kale caesar salad, blackberry cheesecake brownies, and chocolate dipped strawberries. Rose petals are sprinkled inside the basket and there’s a small stuffed bear holding a heart that says ‘be mine’.

Basket Twelve submits black ash basket wrapped in a red satin bow that is holding a rose on top. Inside is an isolated compartment that is holding two bread bowls filled to the bring with pasta, one chicken alfredo, one spaghetti, and meatballs. Two garden salads, breadsticks and dipping sauce, and cheesecake.  There is a bottle of Sangria and a bottle of tequila, two shot glasses and two wine glasses. There is also a picture of the back of a pickup truck filled with pillows facing an outdoor movie screen and the breakfast club playing on the screen, a sticky note is attached that reads ‘netflix and chill?’ jk I don’t really get what that means’ . There is also a baggy full of movie snacks and popcorn. 

Basket Thirteen submits a vintage white picnic basket with a brown clasp. It’s insulated and lined with dark red cloth. Inside you’ll find the following: A bottle of expensive white wine, two wine glasses, grilled salmon, grilled honey mustard chicken skewers, grilled artichokes with harissa-honey dip, radish tartines, and pear cakes cut into heart shapes. Two small sailors’ hats are tucked on the side and a note that reads “Sail away with me” in cursive handwriting.

Basket Fourteen submits a dark brown wicker basket with a navy blue blanket held to the side with leather straps. Inside you’ll find the following: a bottle of Nosotros wine and two crystal wine glasses, classic lobster rolls, handmade spring vegetable pizza, spring greens Caesar salad, brownies and lemon cookies. There are also two sets of hand-made movie tickets, one copy of Pride & Prejudice and one of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.

Basket Fifteen submits a simple grey plastic laundry basket (one you might find in the walmart home-good section), with a black and white checker sheet folded in the bottom. Inside you’ll find the following: One bottle of Woodford Reserve Whiskey 1.0L, one can of bug spray, one bottle of SPF 30, two pairs of thick wool socks, four expertly made ham and cheese sandwiches, one large refillable water bottle, two black and white striped beach towels, a box of Cheez-It’s, and a bag of Sour Patch watermelon gummy candy.

Basket Sixteen submits a light brown wicker basket with an off-white lining at the top and a dark brown top. Inside you’ll find the following: A jug of freshly made lemonade, A jug of ice coffee, two empty mason jars for cups, steak tacos, Tostitos chips, medium salsa, cucumber tomato salad, and two slices of lemon meringue pie. The green and white checkered blanket is folded at the very bottom. There are two neon mini golf balls in one of the inside pockets.  

Basket Seventeen submits a medium sized white basket. Inside you’ll find the following: peach gummy candy, kettle corn, red wine, a fuzzy blanket and a pair of fuzzy socks, two sandwiches, cheese and crackers, colouring book & crayons and a pack of cigarettes

Basket Eighteen submits a large wicker basket with a blue picnic blanket. Inside you’ll find the following: watermelon, apples, homemade banana bread, chocolate chip cookies, red & white wine, two BLT sandwiches, a bouquet of tulips and a book of riddles.

Basket Nineteen submits a cherry coloured Peterboro Traditional picnic basket lined with blue gingham. Inside you’ll find the following: a decanter of blood, a bottle of good single malt Scotch, sheet music for Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 3, and one apple.  

Basket Twenty submits a brown wicker basket lined in red and white plaid. Inside you’ll find the following: a blanket with a bear skin rug pattern, an enormous Cuban sandwich, a bag of coffee beans, potato salad, a fifth of whiskey, and half a dozen snickerdoodles.  

Twenty One submits an antique wash willow hamper lined in dark red. Inside you’ll find the following: a bottle of Dom Perrignon champagne, a bottle of Labella’s finest wine, two champagne flutes, two wine glasses, two China plates, a removable cooler bag containing an assortment of fine meats and cheeses, a board on which to set out the meats and cheeses, various boxes of different kinds of crackers, and chocolate covered strawberries for dessert.

[mimis-mm]

Hi, this is the one who asked for barista MC. OH MY GOD!! HOW DID YOU KNOW I AM CLUMSY😂😂😂😂. Im so in love with this. Now Im gonna let my imagination run wilder. What could happen for their first date😍😍😍😍😂😂😂. Thank you😘😘😘😘

lmao I’m actually watching you all day long who wouldn’t be a clumsy mess when Zen is complimenting them? So here goes your date with him, with of course a little something more to it. 

Valentine’s Day special

A.K.A. Zen with a barista MC too shy to ask him out part 2

part 1 here: x

Word count: 2 741 words

FYI: Valentine’s Day in Korea is celebrated mainly with the girls giving chocolates to boys/men they like platonically and handmade or higher quality bought to those they love. It’s the 14th March, during White Day, that boys do the same.

Warning: It gets slightly NSFW at the end, but nothing too lewd.

“[Y/N], it’s time for your date with Mister Handsome. ~” you hear your supervisor say while they pat on your shoulder.

Your cheeks take a pinkish color and you glance at the clock.  

“Wait, there’s still ten minutes to my shift.”

“I’ll cover you, girl.” They smile at you with a wink. “Besides, I don’t think you want to go to your first date with him, and on Valentine’s Day at that, while looking like that.”

She does a motion toward their hair and face with their hand, and it doesn’t take much IQ to know that they mean you look like shit. Well, considering the fact that you’re about to go out with someone who would put Apollo to shame. But… did they just say…

“It’s Valentine’s Day!?” You jump and almost smudge the pink heart you’re creating for the couple waiting their coffee.

Today is not the 13th? You were sure this morning that it was. Gosh, good thing you have the same shift for both days.  

Your superior laughs.  

“Yes, it is. Now go.” They take the cup and shoo you away.

You thank them and go to the employees’ changing room and open your locker. You’re greeted by a pair of black leggings and a deep red hoodie. Oh crap. You were in a hurry this morning and you just picked what fell in your hands. At least you get a point for being on point with the color scheme, right? You change from your uniform to your civil clothing and take a look at yourself in the mirror. You don’t look that bad, but your hair could use a little brushing and maybe some makeup wouldn’t hurt. So, you take care of that and after a few minutes, you put on your coat, take your bag and you’re ready to go.

You step outside of the employees’ room and your eyes are locked on the man sitting at one of the tables. His large back is facing you and he is hunched over the table, probably fidgeting with his phone. All you can see is his leather jacket, which enhances his imposing frame, and his short white hair. You walk towards him, then lightly tap on his firm shoulder. He looks at you and flashes you a bright smile with white teeth.  

“Are you ready to go?” He asks as he stands up.

You shake your head up and down quickly, too captivated by his beauty to be able to form a single word. He chuckles and reaches his hand out to you with his palm upward. Your reaction is to put your own hand on top, and you almost let out a whimper when Zen kisses the back of it without breaking eye contact with you. You can feel your entire face burning up and turning the same color of his crimson eyes.  

“Then, let’s get going, shall we?” He winks playfully at you.

“Yes,” you finally stutter after a few seconds.

He exits the café with you, holding your hand in his. It does feels funny, but not in a bad way. Maybe it’s because you’ve known each other for almost two months but never did hang out together, or maybe it’s just the blast of holding hands with a handsome man that you barely know anything about. Either way, it just feels right.  

“So, where are we going?” You ask as you look up at him.

“In a restaurant not far from here that I like to go from time to time. You must be hungry, right?“

Heck yeah. You could eat a whole fucking horse.

“Yes, thank you for your consideration,” you reply sweetly. Now is not the time to creep him out.

You two continue walking in a comfortable silence. A few couples are roaming the streets hand in hand, some even have matching scarves to fight against the cold winter wind. At the sight of them, your heart aches to the idea of doing the same with Zen. However, you can’t deny being confused on whether he would be willing to comply with it. After all, his style of clothing is screaming bad boy, but the moment he opens his mouth, he transforms into Prince Charming. So, who knows.

Your date stops, then enters in a fancy restaurant that claims to serve fine cuisine with the possibility to eat outside during the right season. You actually remember your colleagues talking about wanting to go eat there when they’ll have the time for. Hah, you’ll be able to tease them during your next shift.

“Thanks.” You whisper to Zen who is holding the door for you.

The interior is more spacious than you imagined, with even some banquets in the back. The place is obviously decorated with a few Valentine’s themed decorations, such as cardboard hearts hanging from the ceiling, bouquets of roses are scattered around on the different surfaces and a romantic music is playing in the background. A waitress comes to great you and Zen answers that he made a reservation an hour ago to the name of Hyun Ryu. She smiles politely at him and brings you to the back of the room, where she leaves two menus. Both you and Zen sit down and you hesitantly take off your coat, while he casually does it, revealing at the same time a rAT TAIL?

You guess that you must have a strange expression, because he looks at you with worry in his eyes. He finally breaks the awkward silence:

“Is there something wrong?”

“N-no!” Shoot. You may have said it a little too loudly. “It’s just… I didn’t know you had long hair?”

He blinks once, then looks down, only to jump at the sight of his own perfect white hair.

“Oh, I always protect them from the cold. It breaks the point, you see.” He chuckles while playing with a strand of it. He looks back at you. “You don’t seem to like it.”

Ack!  

“that’s not it! I’m just surprised, that’s all.” You make big gestures with your hands at the same time of trying to save the day. “It’s just, you know, damn.”

There’s a moment of silence, then he burst out laughing and tries to hide it by placing a hand on his mouth. He finally gets to articulate something between two laughers:

“I’m so sorry, but you’re just too cute. No one ever complimented my hair with a simple ‘damn’.”

You want to hide so badly. Not only because he thinks you’re cute, but also because you only said the truth partially and don’t want him to know what you actually think about his hair. That you just found out that long hair for a man is quite a turn on for you.  

Or maybe just for him?

Ugh. It doesn’t matter now, you probably won’t end the date in a bed. So no need to get ahead of yourselfor give yourself some weird scenarios.

You both order your dish, wait and then eat while talking about this and that, as a result, gives an answer to one of the biggest mystery of the café. The reason Zen only orders that famous organic honey and lemon tea of his is because it’s supposedly pretty good for the voice and he happens to be a musical actor. He is trying really hard to know more about you, which flatters you greatly. It’s not every day a handsome musical actor is excessively interested in you, a totally normal person.  

The waitress comes back and inquires on if you’re ready to pay, and how the bills are separated. You quickly answer, knowing that your date would want to pay for you.

“I’ll pay for both.”  

Zen looks at you with a semi shocked expression, not knowing how to react. It takes a few seconds for him to come back to his sense.

“Are you sure? I’m the one who invited you.”

“And I’m the one who accepted to come. Also, it’s Valentine’s Day and I didn’t bought any chocolate for you, so let me make up for it, please.”

He sighs, but soon nods with a smile.  

“Alright, if you put it that way.”

The woman takes off, coming back not even two minutes later with the bill. Well two bills. She gives one to Zen and explains that it’s for him to know how much it costs. You find it strange but didn’t think much of it since you’re composing your nip. You then give back the paying device, but notice Zen handing his paper back with a frown on his face.

“I won’t need it, thank you.” He says, his voice slightly dry.

She seems surprised, but still takes it back with a smile that, somehow, doesn’t reach the eyes. You glance at Zen and raise an inquisitive eyebrow, to which he only responds with a quick smile, chasing away the rudeness he had a few seconds ago on his face. You decide to brush it off and put on your coat instead. He quickly follows your lead, then you both go outside.

The temperature has gone up during the time you were inside. The snow has begun to melt a bit and some people even dare to unzip their coat.

“What do you want to do, princess?”

Your heart skips a beat at the nickname, but you’re trying to not let yourself get overwhelmed by your emotions. Is he trying to fluster you, or what? If that’s the case, then you won’t let yourself be without fighting back, so you smirk back and wrap your arms arounds his. You whisper with batting eyes:

“Hmm… We can just walk like this.”

You’re surprised to see his cheeks flaring up. He quickly looks away with a hand on his mouth, as if he wants to hides his embarrassment. Good, now he’s tasting his own medicine.  

“If you want to,” he says.  

His voice, huskier than usual, gives a sudden warm feeling in your lower abdomen.

Oh boi, you know this sensation. Maybe going there isn’t the best idea to keep this date in the romantic mood, and not something entirely different.  

You clear your throat and gently pull him by the hand, to which he complies without any protest. The streets are now more filled, making it a bit difficult to walking around freely. However, people get out of the way when they look up to you. Or, to be precise, they’re looking at Zen behind you.  

You both come across a public park that is almost empty, with the exception of a few small children along with their parents. You decide to continue your way through it, still holding Zen’s hand in yours. The place is filled with trees undressed of their leaves, swinging leisurely at the rhythm of the wind. You breathe deeply, taking the fresh and cold scent of this winter day in to relax. The only sounds you can hear are the laughers of the children, the birds singing and both of your footsteps on the snow. Your fingers entwine with his all on their own, squeezing his hand at the same time, to which he responds by doing the same.  

“You seem to be enjoying yourself,” he whispers with a chuckle. “I wish I was as comfortable as you are.”

“Why are you saying that?” You ask as you look up to him.

His cheeks are still pink, but at this point, you’re not even sure if the cold is behind it or something else. He smiles, trying to brush off the tense feeling he has since the moment you curled up against him.

“Nothing, I just… haven’t had a girlfriend for more than five years. So, I’m quite nervous right now.” He pauses, then looks at you. “Please don’t look at me like that.”

“No, it’s not weird! I’m just surprised that someone so… perfect like you has been single for so long.” You whisper the last part, suddenly feeling all shy to compliment him.

He laughs bashfully before looking at you with a tender gaze. However, you catch a glint of slyness in it.  

“Well, I’m more than happy that I made you mess up your coffee that time.”

He winks playfully at you while you groan in embarrassment. Why must he make you remember that? Gosh, you were doing a great job at forgetting that it ever happened. You shake your head and stick your tongue at him, only to make him laugh.

You both continue your way, talking about some juicy news circulating around your job since you don’t really know what to talk about, but still want to hear his voice. At your surprise, he’s a real sucker for gossips and knowing people’s life. You go back to the busy streets and even enter in a few stores, joking with Zen about all the Valentine’s Day merchandises. He sometimes makes a few remarks about wanting to buy matching tops, which he ends up doing. To pay back the restaurant, he says. But you saw his eyes light up at the sight of the sweaters.  

When you step outside of a store, your belly is making dying whale noises, so you look up at the sky, seeing that the sun is setting down. Zen suggests to walk you home and you accept after thinking about it for a moment. You pull his by the hand, leading the way to your place. You two arrive at destination, then enter the building.  

You stop in front of your apartment door, then turn to face him. He stares at you, his ruby colored eyes staring at you in an intense manner, as if nothing else was present beside the two of you. The air is getting more and more heavy, with a tint of sultry in it. You gulp down, trying to make your throat less dry before you could speak in a coherent manner:

“Thank you for this date, Zen. It really was the best day I had in a while.”

He blushes lightly with his lips twitching as if he’s trying to control something he wants to tell so badly it’s making him lose his composure. He looks away for a second, then return his attention on you.

“Then, can I ask you something selfish?” He finally says in a low voice. “You can refuse if you’re not feeling at ease, though.”

You nod without breaking eye contact with him, but you can feel your inside going crazy, half-knowing what he’s about to request. He continues:

“Can I kiss you? I won’t try anything funny, I swear.”

The same warm, clenching feeling you had earlier takes your stomach by surprise, not to mention your entire face burning up. You’re such a mess that you’re barely able to shake your head up and down. Zen gently cups you face in his hands, then he leans slowly on you, making you shut your eyes in anticipation. Soon enough, you feel his soft lips on yours. An electric sensation runs through your entire body, and you can’t help but to surrender at the urge to pull him closer. He breaks contact, but quickly catches your lower lip in his own lips, sucking and nibbling on it while one of his hands caresses your shoulder. The overwhelming sensations draw a low and sensual moan out of you, making him groans. He rapidly pulls away, fleeing your gaze.  

“Sorry, babe.” Your thighs squeeze at his hoarse voice and the pet name. “I don’t want you to think I only went on this date just to bed you.”

He clears his throat, puts his hands in the pockets of his pants and risks a glance in your direction.

“It’s ok, I understand.”

There’s an awkward silence, so you decide to say the goodbyes first.

“So, I guess we’ll see each other tomorrow then.”

“Yes, have a great evening.”

You wave him goodbye then enters your apartment, closing the door behind you and leaning on it since you’re still a bit dizzy from the kiss. You touch your lips, still feeling his kiss on them, longing Zen’s presence already. There’s something inside of you that wants to call him back and bring his ass over here to finish from where you left off, but your rational side is screaming to take your time.

Is this how it’s like to be sexually frustrated?  

[awlco]

We were recently asked to design and make 30 of these menus for @willsbarrowford. Plywood boards with a 2mm rebate to give a nice smooth transition to the leather covers. The boards were made by @andymhutchinson, then stained and finished by us. The leather covers are made from anthracite @yarwoodleather, hand cut, edge paint applied, and then stamped with @willsbarrowford logo. The paper menus are held in place by 2 solid brass chicago screws, aged by us. We hope you agree the combination of leather, wood and aged brass work really well! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #handmade #leather #menu #menucover #wood #brass #patina #quality #bespoke #commission #madeinbritain #madetolast #barrowford #lancashire https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwu6U2cjzLP/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1kd5env14ora

[tableandteaspoon]

Monday Merriment

Infusing grandeur into otherwise drab Mondays with five things/ideas/events for the week.

I.  If I could choose how to spend the perfect day, it would be entirely in the kitchen. I planned to do so yesterday, but lost track of time on a hike and found myself frantically abbreviating my elaborate dinner menu. While most homemade desserts include several ingredients and take precision to execute, soufflés surprisingly fall outside both categories. With all the ingredients already on-hand, I whipped up a spiced chocolate version with crème anglaise in under twenty-minutes. (Do it in fifteen by substituting melted vanilla bean ice cream for the anglaise). Here’s the recipe for two individual soufflés.

Ingredients: tbsp soft butter, tbsp diced cold butter, tbsp white sugar, 6-oz chopped semisweet chocolate (or half a bag of semisweet chocolate chips), half tsp cinnamon, half tsp cayenne, half tsp cream of tartar, two eggs.

Instructions: preheat oven to 400 degrees. Melt chocolate in microwave whisking every thirty seconds to prevent clumping (about two minutes) or on the stove, then stir in cold butter/cinnamon/cayenne. Separate eggs, combining the yolks with the chocolate mixture and placing the whites in a bowl. Add cream of tartar to the whites and use an electric mixer or Kitchen-aid to whisk until stiff peaks form. Gently fold egg whites into the chocolate mixture until you can no longer see white. Butter two small ramekins (you can find these everywhere from most grocery stores to Williams-Sonoma) and divide white sugar between them so that the sugar covers the butter, then discard any extra sugar by tapping the ramekins upside down over your sink. Evenly distribute the chocolate mixture between the two ramekins and bake for 10-12-minutes until the tops rise about an inch over the rim of the ramekins. Serve immediately alone or with crème anglaise poured in the center.

II.  Over the weekend, a friend I hadn’t seen in nearly two years came to visit. Though his trip was only 24-hours, we decided to make the most of it by exploring scenic Highway 1 south of Monterey. With no clear plan in mind, we meandered down the coast, blasting 80′s music, stopping for drinks at Roy’s fire pits, pausing for pictures at Bixby Bridge and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and engaging in deep conversation. Our journey ended at legendary Hearst Castle, which neither of us had ever been to, before turning around to head home. I arrived back in San Francisco with a renewed sense of dedication to making time for spontaneous trips outside the city going forward. Whether you’re a local with a penchant for sticking to routine (like me) or planning your next California vacation, I can’t recommend the breathtaking 80-mile stretch between Big Sur and San Simeon highly enough.

III.  After following Emily Weiss (who can forget her portrayal of Teen Vogue’s resident mean girl on The Hills?!) for a decade, I finally gave in to temptation and ordered several products from her direct-to-consumer beauty company Glossier. The millennial pink branding and cult following make the items must-haves for women under the age of 40. After perusing reviews, I decided to order cleanser, toner, makeup remover, moisturizer, and vitamin c serum. Much to my horror, I awoke with a rash on my face after using all of the products the evening they arrived. I initiated a return, and was shocked when they issued a full refund after advising that I keep everything for free and take the time to try each product separately to identify the culprit. The impressive customer service more than made up for the rash, and will keep me coming back as a newly minted Glossier devotee. So far, I’m a fan of the exfoliating toner and affordable C serum, and plan to order Boy Brow soon.

IV.  What if there was an easy way to craft a stunning floral arrangement without employing flimsy tape grids or messy foam? Well, I’m delighted to tell you that there is! Handmade ceramics boutique Rico Terre recently launched holed vases that make creating bouquets significantly easier. An added bonus, you will require less flowers because they won’t be crammed together. Play with height variation and thin branches to take your arrangement to the next level.

V.  A fan of both exotic leather and monogrammed anything - I’m constantly on the lookout for phone cases that marry the two. My first try, Gigi New York, had an attractive price-point, but felt a little unsophisticated. My second attempt, celebrity-endorsed brand Vianel, was completely underwhelming. The company’s logo was displayed prominently on the case, and my monogram wore off within a few weeks. Third time was the charm, because I’m in love with the cases I ordered from The Case Factory (black alligator and gray ostrich, both with gold lettering). The Stockholm-based company creates gorgeous pieces that arrive quickly and last around a year before showing signs of wear and tear. If you’re in the market for yourself or a gift, I enthusiastically suggest checking out TCF.

Have a wonderful week! xx tt

[toldnews-blog]

New Post has been published on https://toldnews.com/travel/hong-kongs-best-new-restaurants-for-2019/

Hong Kong's best new restaurants for 2019

Hong Kong (CNN) — A city of more than 25,000 places to eat, Hong Kong is always going to spoil diners, even without the seemingly constant flow of new spots opening up.

Nevertheless, the inspirations, ingredients and innovation behind the best new restaurants in Hong Kong, from the Peruvian Andes to northern England, are stretching the city’s global reach in 2019 even further.

Here are 11 of the best additions to the city’s dining scene, offering a world of flavors when you travel here:

Ichu Peru

Virgilio Martinez is arguably Peru’s most celebrated chef, responsible for the award-winning restaurant Central in Lima, as well as other global spots. His new Hong Kong restaurant Ichu Peru is named after a plant from the Peruvian Andes that only grows in extreme conditions.

It’s his first in Asia and serves contemporary Peruvian cuisine that’s as intriguing as it is comforting and delicious. Chef Sang Jeong worked alongside Martinez at Central and heads up the new kitchen in Hong Kong’s Central neighborhood.

The Joyce Wang-designed interiors can seat up to 80, while the outdoor terrace has already become a popular al fresco spot.

Ichu Peru, 3/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2477 7717

Kytaly

Kytaly is the first overseas pizzeria by famed chef Franco Pepe.

Kytaly

It’s a huge claim — and very subjective — but “The World’s Best Pizza” has hit Hong Kong.

The man behind the unusually named Kytaly — it combines the Japanese symbol of life energy, “Ki,” with “Italy”– is renowned pizza chef Franco Pepe.

His first overseas restaurant, it sits smack in one of the nightlife hearts of Hong Kong island, Wyndham Street in Central. Pepe is a third-generation baker and created a new pizza dough with his own flour, before topping it with ingredients that are 99% imported from Italy, such as pork from Caserta and buffalo mozzarella from Campana.

That may help explain the price of HK$208 ($26) for his Margherita Sbagliata (“Mistaken Margarita”), one of 19 pizzas on the menu.

Pepe’s pies, served at his Caiazzo, Italy, restaurant Pepe In Grani, have pulled in a number of global awards, ensuring that his Hong Kong restaurant is always busy.

Kytaly Hong Kong, 5/F, 77 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2808 1961

Roganic

Simon Rogan needs no introduction to British diners thanks to his five restaurants, which hold four Michelin stars between them.

He has opened two adjacent restaurants in Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay district.

There’s the experimental hub of Aulis Hong Kong, with just 12 seats, and Roganic, a modern 40-seat spot focusing on farm-to-table cuisine inspired and influenced by England’s Lake District and some of its finest ingredients.

Always imaginative and ahead of its time, Rogan’s food delivers on every level and reminds Hong Kong’s diners — and chefs — that there’s still plenty of room for innovation.

With natural wines, fresh and foraged produce and impeccable execution, this will clearly be one to watch in 2019.

Roganic, Shop 8, UG/F, Sino Plaza, 255 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong; +852 2817 8383

SHÈ

SHE’s dishes riff on Chinese classics with clever, innovative and healthy twists.

courtesy SHE

SHÈ is a Chinese character that represents hospitality and also the name of a modern Chinese restaurant within one of Hong Kong’s most historic and exclusive department stores, Lane Crawford, which is inside the IFC Mall.

The plates riff on Chinese classics with clever, innovative and healthy twists, as befits their fashion-conscious clientele.

Everything from classic Cantonese roast meats to dim sum and noodle dishes to afternoon tea paired with cocktails are available. The restaurant’s terrace overlooking Victoria Harbour has quickly become a spot to see and be seen.

SHÈ, Level 3, IFC Mall, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2110 0153

Wagyumafia

If beef is your thing, then it doesn’t get much tastier or more exclusive than Wagyumafia, newly opened in Wan Chai. That’s because the 18-seat dining and butcher’s club, originally launched in Tokyo by Hisato Hamada, only serves Japanese-reared champion wagyu beef from Kobe and Tajima.

There’s only one tasting menu that highlights a variety of cuts and techniques including shabu-shabu and yakiniku.

Most famously of all, however — especially on Instagram — it’s the cutlet sandwich, which steals the show. An extra thick Chateaubriand cut is fried in Japanese panko breadcrumb, then served on Japanese milk bread with the restaurant’s own special sauce.

Other dishes on the menu include tuna direct from Tokyo, but high-end produce such as the top 1% of already expensive Kobe beef doesn’t come cheap, meaning the Signature Tasting menu will set you back a cool $230 per person.

John Anthony

John Anthony offers a large selection of innovative dim sum.

Jonathan Leijonhufvud

Another intriguingly named spot, especially for a Chinese restaurant, comes in the form of John Anthony in the city’s Lee Gardens mall in Causeway Bay. Regional Chinese cuisines including Szechuan, Hunan and Shandong are the stars of the menu, but Cantonese also plays a large role.

The 7,000-square-foot space boasts three custom-built barbecue grills that deliver many of the dishes. The Flat Bed BBQ cooks traditional Cantonese char siu roast meats including Iberico pork, Black Angus short rib and Australian wagyu fillet.

There’s a large selection of dim sum, with handmade Alaskan crab dumplings and steamed rice rolls with soft shell crab and squid ink providing a mouthful in more ways than one. The bar is another draw, especially its 12 “gin tubes,” each filled with a house-infused gin featuring botanicals from across ancient Spice Routes.

John Anthony, 1 Sunning Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong; +852 2898 3788

Hotal Colombo

It’s not a typo — Hotal Colombo is deliberately named to reflect the local pronunciation in Sri Lanka, a country rich in cuisine. The SoHo-based spot is inspired by the countless eating spots across Sri Lanka’s capital of Colombo where workers head for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Both the pastel pink and blue decor and server costumes reflect the island nation’s tropical vibes, while the soundtrack adds to the atmosphere. Seating just 40 diners, it makes for an intimate and engaging eatery where Head Chef Gisela Alesbrook shares her profound love of her country’s cuisine through sharing plates.

Star dishes include Bone Marrow Varuval with Pol Roti, where slow-cooked veal bone marrow meets delicious freshly made roti flatbreads. Hoppers are a beloved type of Sri Lankan pancake, eaten at every meal and perfect for plunging into curries such as the fragrant fish kari with coconut milk and fresh curry leaves.

Artemis & Apollo

For a city reflecting all the world’s cuisines, great Greek food has been historically underrepresented in Hong Kong. Step forward a Greek taverna called Artemis & Apollo that brings the soul of the country’s best dishes to diners in the city’s Wan Chai district.

The compact twin dining rooms represent the twins of Greek legend that give the restaurant its name, while the soundtrack eschews traditional bouzouki music and instead reflects Greek and global tunes from over the years.

Chef Andrée LeFuel worked at Souvla in San Francisco so has the perfect resume to produce impeccable taramasalata made with cured mullet roe from Greece or a hugely decadent fried Saganaki cheese.

Calamari, octopus and lamb chops are other Greek staple ingredients taken to new heights, while the diverse Greek wine list features some hidden treasures.

KONG

KONG serves playful Cantonese dishes.

Kong

Wan Chai-based Bread & Beast has been making gourmet sandwiches popular with locals and visitors alike. Its recent launch of an evening restaurant called Kong — in the same location — has taken its food in a whole new direction.

After dark, the restaurant riffs on local Cantonese classics with surprising twists, so cheung fun noodle rolls are covered with gooey melted cheddar, à la mac and cheese. Crispy scallion pancakes are the perfect platform for liver pate made with Hua Diao wine, while “angry cauli” lives up to its name with chili oil and a broth made with toban djan (spicy bean paste).

A strong bar program includes cocktails that hero Chinese spirits, popular with locals and visitors alike who enjoy standing outside on the quiet street.

KONG, 3 Swatow Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong; +852 2237 1868

Prohibition Grill House Marriott

Down in the south side of Hong Kong Island, the Ocean Park Marriott Hotel is found right outside the city’s own take on Disneyland. Prohibition Grill House & Cocktail Bar looks the part with its 1920s throwback of red velvet curtains, brick walls, leather banquettes and copper piping.

Executive Chef Jason R. Loyd oversees the menu, which kicks off with classics such as a hearty seafood chowder or an excellent shrimp cocktail featuring wild seafood imported from Canada, served with lime jelly for those citrus notes.

Of course the meats are the star of the show, with carnivores spoilt for choice amidst a range of global cuts. M4 Japanese wagyu is hard to top, while Australian ribeye is another popular choice. Impeccable sides and decadent desserts complete the picture.

Ecriture

Ecriture means “writing” in French, and the top-floor dining room in one of Hong Kong’s hottest restaurant destinations stunned the culinary world after opening in May 2018 and collecting two Michelin stars just seven month later.

Chef Maxime Gilbert plays with French and Asian textures and flavors to brilliant effect. Pan-seared lamb, for example, is served with choy sum, Shanghainese cabbage and Taiwanese spring cabbage sauteed with pickled lemon and seaweed. The whole plate is then crowned with lamb jus and black truffle.

Desserts include an impressively constructed chestnut ganache with three separate citrus fillings, the whole creation decked in delicate chocolate rings.

Ecriture, 26th floor, H Queen’s, 80 Queens Road Central, Hong Kong; +852 2795 5996

[moverevolutionestateagents]

Move Revolution Christmas Girls Wish List 2018!

Our Move Revolution Girls’ Wish List was such a huge hit last year we have updated it for 2018… with so many compliments about the different independent businesses, we have added in all their new gifts for 2018 – fantastic for last minute ideas! We originally wanted to create an Ultimate Girls’ Christmas Wish List using all the local knowledge from the girls (and guys) in our Move Revolution offices throughout Surrey, Sussex and Kent! It was decided that our list needed to be ‘local’ either produced by someone local, or stocked by someone local.

As an independent business, we know how much hard work and dedication we invest into delivering the very best possible customer service for our clients��.having started with one office in Nutfield, Surrey which covers the Reigate, Redhill, Horley and Oxted area we now have offices throughout Surrey, Sussex and Kent, at Move Revolution we all have a real love for what we do, as do all these local businesses!

This is our 2018 gorgeous sparkly list – get ready to buy all the things for yourself (or share this with your partner with a big hint!!)  

Move Revolution’s Girls Shopping List 2018-

(To read full details on each of the item, and why we love it, see below!)

1.  All about Eve at Home (Reigate)- Dark Amber

2. Willow & Boo (Tunbridge Wells) – The Nutcracker Box

3. Bradshaw & Sons (Sevenoaks) – Sevenoaks Satchel

4. The Gin Kitchen (Dorking) – Artisan Dancing Dragontail or Gutsy Monkey Gin

5. Ivy Florence (Lingfield) – Christmas Flowers

6. Squerry’s (Westerham) – Sparkling Wine

7. Monty Bojangles (Head office – Kenley, Truffle Bar – Reigate) –  Winter Wanderland

8. Gravetye Manor – Amazing Dining Experience

9. Time Hair & Beauty (Caterham) – ‘Going Out Hair & Beauty’ Gift Voucher

Find out a little bit more about the gorgeous items on our ultimate shopping list 2018!

 (1) The perfect Candle  – All about Eve at Home Dark Amber

These are truly gorgeous candles – and we love the latest edition!

“A hypnotic fragrance of amber and leather on a base of jasmine, smoky spices and a hint of citrus, make this a truly sophisticated seasonal fragrance.

Hand poured in the UK by candle specialists, our candles hold 220gms of wax, burn for approximately 40 hours and burn evenly right down to the bottom of the glass. Our customers love them as they really do hold their strong fragrance right to the very end!!”

All about Eve at Home Dark Amber

(2) The perfect handmade gift – Lollipops!

Do you remember Willow & Boo (recommended by our Royal Tunbridge Wells team) this year, inspired by the film they have created  The Nutcracker box….

A lovely treat box with-

Mother Gingers sherbet Jar with a strawberry gold swirl lollipop

A lemon snowflake

Blackcurrant sugar plum fairy slippers

Strawberry nutcracker lollipop

and a little gilded sugar mouse.

The Nutcracker Box

   (3) The Sevenoaks satchel – Every girl likes to feel unique!

“Inspired by the bags of the 1930’s and 40’s, when artistry was paramount, the Sevenoaks Satchel is a respectful nod to history, a new classic for a changed world. Designed with versatility in mind it can be worn on the shoulder, hands-free across the body or brief-case style using the top handle. The Sevenoaks satchel features a generously proportioned duel moulded body, single buckle brass closure and detachable internal pocket. Streamlined and minimalist but imbued with character, this unique Satchel is your new style must-have”

(4) GIN GIN  GIN ! (Need we say more!)

A few of us had the pleasure of visiting the Gin Kitchen this summer – it was truly amazing, they have launched a new gin – they are feeling in the pink this time!

“As our NEW Blushing Monkey Pink Gin hit the shelves of Fortnum and Mason in September 2018 for our fourth Spirit of the Month. Our latest addition is our unique interpretation of the pink gin revolution – our amethyst portal to the divine! We’ve created a juniper-led but gorgeously floral gin with a delightful sweet (but not too sweet) fruity twist by macerating our mischievous Gutsy Monkey with a bashful cluster of sweet black grapes! With the addition of tonic, the initially translucent Blushing Monkey transforms into a pearlescent pink elixir. Our favourite serve is to add the tonic first so the gin forms a candifloss-coloured cloud.”. http://gin.kitchen

(5) The gift of flowers – discover Ivy Florence!

The secret florist is tucked away in Lingfield Village – Ivy Florence in Lingfield is a treat to visit at the this time of year! With attention to detail you really will be thrilled, and importantly so will the lucky recipient!

Wonderful flower gifts 

(6) Pop the cork! Who can resist a glass of bubbles!

“Vintage sparkling wine that reflects the amazing spirit, rich heritage and the beautiful terroir of our North Downs Estate”

With a gorgeous selection of sparkling wines… and wonderful experiences based at the vineyard – this really is a wonderful way to toast Christmas morning!

  Wonderful bubbles

7)  Monty Bojangles – Truffles!

Monty Bojangles is a huge favourite of Louise Simpson’s, our Head Office Area Sales Manager. This year they have a ‘Winter Wonderland’ selection.. perfect for any Christmas Stocking!!  Either buy online or at The Reigate Truffle Bar which is a great place to visit for Christmas shopping (and amazing hot chocolate)

  8) An amazing dinner! 

We have been hearing wonderful things about Gravetye Manor… just take a look at the beautiful setting and incredible menus! (you will be very tempted!)

“Prepare to be delighted by our magnificent Michelin Star meals. Our immensely talented head chef, George Blogg takes the freshest ingredients from our Kitchen Garden and transforms them into a culinary masterpiece. If it’s not in season, it’s not on the menu”

9)  The Ultimate ‘Going Out Out Package’ with Time Hair & Beauty 

We know that many of you enjoyed this package last year … so we have included it in our list! Treat yourself or wonderful friend / girlfriend / wife a TIME Hair and Beauty pampering packages.  Created by Katherine Casey-Farmer (Kat) who trained and worked in Covent Garden, Camden, Croydon and Reigate – this is perfect as a gift.

If you are not sure what to choose… Kat has created a ‘Going Out Out Package’- what a wonderful treat for any girl!

Going ‘out out’ Blowdry

Going ‘out out’ Make-up

Going ‘out out’ Gel Manicure

 If you’re thinking of moving, call the team on 0330 223 1000 or fill in the valuation form.

We can’t wait to chat with you!

  The post Move Revolution Christmas Girls Wish List 2018! appeared first on Move Revolution.

from Move Revolution https://www.moverevolution.com/blog/move-revolution-christmas-girls-wish-list-2018/

[longislandweekly-blog]

A weekend away in the Green Mountain State

Every road in the Woodstock area features rolling hills, quaint farmhouses and trees of every color. (Photo by Kimberly Lovisi)

Hot apple cider. Warm flannel. Fresh maple syrup. Aged cheddar. New England Americana. Blazing foliage.

This is what comes to mind when I think of Vermont in the fall. I found all of it and more in the small town of Woodstock, VT, on a recent weekend trip.

The Drive Up

Departing Long Island in a 2019 Chevy Traverse on a Friday afternoon made the five-hour drive as enjoyable as could be. Sirius XM provided the playlist that accompanied the time-honored ombré shift from green to orange alongside the Taconic State Parkway.

Roughly at the midway point to Woodstock is the historic village of Chatham, NY, which I recommend a stop at. Chatham Brewing was a great choice for dinner. The menu extends beyond the typical pub food with seasonal options and a particularly good vegetable chili, and there’s live music on the weekends.

Chevy’s built-in navigation system was incredibly helpful mapping the best route to my destination, but the Traverse easily pairs with Android and Apple smartphones if Google Maps or Waze is your preference. Charging your phone is not a problem with the wireless charging tray and seven, count ‘em, seven USB ports.

The car is also connected to OnStar, which is handy for more than just emergencies. OnStar is like a personal concierge that can give you restaurant recommendations or help you find the nearest rest stop by sending turn-by-turn directions to your car. If you find yourself desperately in need of coffee or a bathroom break, OnStar has you covered.

Lodging

506 On The River Inn encapsulates everything you love about Vermont

Breakfast extravaganza at 506 (Photos courtesy of 506 on the River Inn)

Sink into the comfortable beds

The lounge is the place to be morning, noon and night

Enjoy the offerings at the bar and bistro

Woodstock is full of inns and bed & breakfasts, but 506 On The River Inn is especially charming. Nestled beside the Ottaquechee River, the 40-room boutique inn boasts gorgeous views during every season. You’ll never want to leave!

After the long drive, crawling into a comfy bed with fluffy pillows was heaven. Every part of the property is inviting—from the rocking chairs on the patio that overlook the river to sumptuous leather armchairs in the seating areas. Quaint farmhouse décor and antique artifacts welcome guests from every direction.

506 even allows pets in select ground-level rooms. Think of all the smells your dog can smell in Vermont! The Chevy Traverse is just as pet-friendly as the inn, with a spacious interior and seating for up to eight.

In the morning, 506 serves a full country breakfast with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, French toast, oatmeal, yogurt and all the trimmings. It’s out of this world.

Also out of this world is the gorgeous salvaged wood bar. You’ll definitely want to spend some time with a few cocktails or a nice craft beer at that bar. Pro tip: Hot rum and apple cider is the perfect drink on a cool autumn evening.

Finally, make time for a meal at the bistro. The fall menu includes delights like cheddar bacon soup, Bosc pear and blue cheese salad, maple chili wings and local squash & chickpea curry.

Exploring Woodstock

Exploring Woodstock’s quaint downtown in a versatile 2019 Chevy Traverse (Photos by Kimberly Dijkstra)

Mon Vert Cafe has excellent food and beverages

They source their ingredients locally

And they serve Vermont Coffee Company coffee

It’s nice to spend time walking through town

Danforth Pewter sells handmade ornaments, charms and jewlery

When in Vermont, shop for flannel

A chainsaw artist carved this sculpture at Vermont Flannel

The Village Butcher is where the locals eat

FH Gillingham & Sons has aisles that go on forever

And they have a heft candy department

Woodstock is decked out for fall

The Kedron Brook runs straight through town

Getting on the road to see the scenery

Billings Farm & Museum is picturesque

Visit during fall to see the beautiful foliage (Photo by Kimberly Lovisi)

Some leaves burst with vibrant color

Billings Farm is an operating dairy farm with animals all around

Take a stroll around the heifer pasture (Photo by Kimberly Lovisi)

Pretty colors in every direction

Sometimes you’ll come across a gorgeous view like this one (Photo by Kimberly Lovisi)

Moore’s Orchard was a great find while exploring the Woodstock area (Photo by Kimberly Lovisi)

They bottle their own maple syrup there (Photo by Kimberly Lovisi)

As well as sell pumpkins (Photo by Kimberly Lovisi)

Find Moore’s Orchard at 109 Johnson Rd, North Pomfret, VT 05053 (Photo by Kimberly Lovisi)

Taftsville Covered Bridge

Dusk at Quechee Gorge

Many attractions throughout Vermont

Just down the road from 506 is Central Road, the “Main Street” of Woodstock. The town has a strong Stars Hollow vibe, with a tree-lined courtyard called The Green, stately brick buildings, Colonial style homes, an old church and library—and I haven’t even mentioned the independent shops and eating establishments yet.

There’s a yarn shop called The Whippletree and custom jeweler called N T Ferro. Danforth Pewter offers beautiful handcrafted items and Unicorn is a magical variety store. The Yankee Book Shop is Vermont’s oldest independent bookstore. Not for nothing, but Chevy’s surround vision and backup camera made parallel parking in town a piece of cake. I wondered if strategically placed cameras could really create a virtual bird’s eye view or if the car actually came with its own personal drone.

Finding the perfect souvenir is easy if you spend some time shopping around. I recommend a stop at The Village Butcher for local Vermont products like meats, cheeses and wines. Next door is F.H. Gillingham & Sons, a deceptively large general store that puts Walmart to shame.

No visit to Woodstock is complete without a stop at The Vermont Flannel Company. The small storefront is packed with plaid shirts, hoodies, jackets, blankets, scarves, hats and the list goes on, all made from the softest brushed cotton.

Take a break from shopping at Mon Vert Café for an amazing selection of coffees, teas, breakfast, lunch and bakery items. Ingredients are organic and locally sourced and there are many gluten-free options. Try the butterbeer latte if you’re lucky enough to catch this special seasonal item on the menu.

Even when it’s cold, it’s never too cold for ice cream. That’s where Mountain Creamery comes in. The offerings are all homemade and use farm-fresh local ingredients.

A ways down the road you’ll find the Woodstock Farmers’ Market, which is quite possibly the best place to enjoy all of Vermont’s fall flavors. Its mission is to make fantastic food accessible to everyone. Between fresh organic produce, prepared meals, specialty products, deli provisions and coffee counter, I declare mission accomplished.

Woodstock is a family-friendly destination, so if you’re bringing the kids, plan for at least a half day at Billings Farm & Museum, a nonprofit institution that highlights Vermont’s rural heritage. The 200-acre property is actually an operating dairy farm as well as an educational resource to the community. Kids will love the livestock, children’s programs, workshops, films and fascinating exhibits depicting what life on a farm was like in 1800s. Before you leave it’s essential to hit up the Dairy Bar for Vermont-made ice cream and snacks. (It’s vacation. No one is keeping track of how much ice cream you eat!)

If you venture a bit further in either direction, you’ll find covered bridges in that quintessential Vermont style. Cross the 1836 Taftsville Covered Bridge to get to Sugarbush Farm and see a working maple syrup farm. Quechee Gorge, aka “Vermont’s little Grand Canyon” is not far. Just park in the gift shop lot and walk across the bridge for the best view from above, then pop down the trail to see the gorge from the ground level.

In search of cheese

Arrived at MKT Grafton with the help of Chevy’s nav system (Photos by Kimberly Dijkstra)

Many wax-covered cheeses to choose from

MKT Grafton doubles as a gift shop

On the road again

Cheese is not exactly scarce in Vermont, but Grafton Village Cheese Company makes a mean cheddar that’s worth making a special trip for. Their headquarters are in Grafton, a lovely town with several artist workshops and galleries, antique shopping, a history museum, the Vermont Museum of Mining and Minerals, farms and farmers markets and access to recreation year-round.

MKT Grafton is one place where you’ll find Grafton Village Cheese for sale and a lot more. This modern country store has locally made snacks, wares and tasty sandwiches at the café. However, for the full selection of Grafton’s handmade, raw-milk cheddars, you’ll want to visit the Brattleboro retail store.

On a chilly autumn day, it was such a pleasure to have heated seats and steering wheel in the Traverse. You don’t even know what a luxury this is until you have it and realize cold fingers are a thing of the past!

Navigating the winding roads of Vermont once the sun goes down can be challenging, but the Traverse’s lane assist feature really does work! If you start to drift out of your lane, the car gently nudges you back into it. Between lane assist and collision alert, which alerts you when other cars are getting too close, these features are more than just convenient, they are potentially life-saving.

Brattleboro

Make Grafton Village Cheese Company your first stop in Brattleboro.

On the way back to Long Island, your route will likely take you through Brattleboro, an awesome town in southern Vermont worthy of a separate vacation.

Start with the Grafton Village Cheese Company where you can not only pick up edible souvenirs from your trip, but also watch cheese being made and learn more about the cheesemaking process. Did you know cheddar is a verb? The building is right next door to Retreat Farm, another historic farmstead you can easily spend the better part of a day exploring and another day on the woodland interpretive nature trails.

In town, there are old bookstores, bike shops for adventurers and a bunch of offbeat independent shops and restaurants.

This place is home to a tiny house festival, an international puppet festival, various food, drink and music festivals throughout the year and the “Strolling of the Heifers”—if that doesn’t pique your interest, what would?

Vermont is the ideal vacation destination from New York in the fall. I’m certain to return for beautiful scenery, engaging activities and delicious things to eat. So long for now, Vermont!

As the leaves change from green to orange, now is the perfect time of year to visit Vermont. Read our insider's guide to Woodstock, VT, and all it has to offer, including a stay at 506 On The River Inn, Billings Museum & Farm and the Woodstock Farmers' Market. Plus, take an excursion to Grafton and Brattleboro for Grafton Village Cheese Company delights. A weekend away in the Green Mountain State Hot apple cider. Warm flannel. Fresh maple syrup. Aged cheddar.

[rajkotcabs-blog]

Discover the Historical City of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a must visit for a globetrotter to discover the rich heritage and culture of India. A trip to Rajasthan gives a complete overview of the bygone era that was ruled by the kings and Maharajas. The historical forts, the sandy deserts and the architectural designs of monuments leave anyone awestruck and certainly arouse a feeling of royal grandeur. The history of this place can be traced back to the pre independence era when the place was ruled by the Rajputs.

One cannot afford to miss the rajasthani music which is a soulful combination of stringed musical instruments and the traditional panihari songs as well as the alap. Dandia, the folk dance of the state reminiscences the Rajasthani lifestyle. Millet bread or Bajre ki roti and Lashun ki chutney or hot garlic paste are the food items that a tourist must include in his or her menu. Festivals are held in Rajasthan almost throughout the year; most of the festivals are celebrated in their desert. Some of the popular festivals and fairs include the Desert festival, camel festival and the Pushkar fair.

When it comes to shopping, the traditional as well as the modern handicraft products are the most preferred ones that come on the shopping list of the tourists. The handmade kurtas with prints of vibrant colors as well as the lahnga and the chunnis are a hit among women. The fascinating paintings of the royal era are also a favourite among both the Indian as well as foreign tourists.

A ride through the palace on wheels is an experience that one should not miss. The train comprises of 14 coaches with air conditioned rooms. Each of the rooms are equipped with all the modern amenities such as running hot and cold water, toilets and intercom. Moreover, the two restaurants that are the Maharani and the Maharaja offer a combined blend of Chinese, Rajasthani and continental cuisine.

Sasan Gir To Somnath Cab Hire For Six People

Before selecting the Rajasthan Tour Packages one must make sure that the following destinations are covered:

• Jaipur: Situated in the east of Rajasthan, Jaipur is also known as the pink city. The place is crowded with beautiful palaces, forts and Havelis. The city palaces, jantar mantar, Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall, BM Birla Planetarium are some of the attractive tourist destinations of Jaipur. The place can be reached by air, through rail and by road. Elephant festival is one of the well known festivals of the place.

• Jaisalmer: Known for its famous Golden fort or the Sonar Quila Jaisalmer is always thronged with tourists throughout the year. Tourists enjoy the enthralling camel ride. The khuri village that is just located at a distance of 45 kms from Jaisalmer are the best place to view the mud and straw decorated house.

• Jodhpur: Founded by Rao Jodha, the ruler of Rathore dynasty, Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan. It is just the best place for different shops such as leather, local handicrafts, handlooms and utensils. Umaid Bhawan Palace and the govt. Bangur museum are the some of the major sightseeing places.

• Udaipur: Udaipur is flooded with lakes everywhere and that is why it is also known as the 'city of lakes'. The Jag Niwas or the Lake Palace is a perfect example of marvellous architecture.

• Nimaj: Once a Palace, Nimaj is now run as a hotel. The palace finds a distinctive place in the list of architectural beauty of India. The external view of the hotel arouses a royal feeling.

• Manvar: Indian desert life can best be experienced by staying at Manvar Desert Resort. Tourists can go for a camel ride through the silent sand deserts and explore the splendid beauty of the place.

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Frankfurt: Insider Travel Guide

(CNN)Frankfurt looks and feels more like a modern American city than any other German metropolis. The towering steel-and-glass skyline spawned the nickname “Mainhattan,” while its more than 300 banks — and the German stock market — prompt others to call it “Bankfurt.���

Almost completely destroyed during World War II, Frankfurt’s Altstadt (Old Town) is a model of architectural resurrection and adaptive reuse, a maze of cobblestone streets and squares flanked by medieval churches, palaces and townhouses.

Across the river is leafy Sachsenhausen with its apple wine taverns and museum row. On either side of Goethe University, Westend and Bockenheim offer bohemian alternatives to the glitz of nearby downtown.

Though the city’s population falls just short of 700,000, Frankfurt feels like a bigger town where big experiences await. Here’s where to find the biggest and best of them.

More German Insider Travel Guides: Berlin | Munich

Hotels

Luxury

Jumeirah Frankfurt

With its glass tower and shiny saddleback roof, the 28-story Jumeirah holds its own among the architectural icons of downtown.

But the ultramodern abode stands out in many other ways, from the rooftop beehives that produce the hotel’s own honey to body-heat detectors and motion sensors that regulate temperatures and energy consumption in the guest rooms.

Overlooking the Zeil pedestrian precinct and a seven-minute walk from Goethstrasse, the Jumeirah boasts a best of Frankfurt location for a shopping expedition.

The main train station and old town are also within walking distance.

Villa Kennedy

The neo-Gothic facade of this former family mansion (built in 1904) belies an edgy interior that mixes minimalist furnishings and intriguing modern art.

Guests gather in the back courtyard for drinks, chats and sunshine, but that’s not the villa’s only attraction.

In addition to a wide range of health and beauty treatments, the Villa Spa has a 15-meter indoor swimming pool flanked by potted palms.

Meanwhile, restaurant Gusto offers fine Italian cuisine and al fresco eating during the warmer months.

The resident mixologist at JFK’s Bar dares you to name a cocktail that he can’t create.

Mid-range

Hotel Gerbermhle

Frankfurt’s wildest new hotel overlooks the river and Osthafen docklands on the central city’s eastern edge.

Built as a flourmill in 1520, the stout riverside structure is where the writer Goethe met his first love.

Now it’s an art hotel with dcor that ranges from antique (exposed stone walls) to offbeat (horse lamps).

The 18 rooms and suites are thoroughly modern, with Wi-Fi, widescreen TVs and marble bathrooms.

The riverside Summer Garden offers cold beer and traditional German snacks, while the indoor Winter Garden specializes in modern German food including local specialties like Grne Sosse (hard-boiled eggs and potatoes in a green sauce).

Budget

Art-Hotel Robert Mayer

Located in Frankfurt’s Bockenheim district, the Robert Mayer blends Bohemian vibes and modern technology in a small, comfortable hotel that’s Frankfurt’s best value.

Local artists were commissioned to design each of the 12 guest rooms inside this early 20th-century townhouse.

The result is eclectic dcor that ranges from cartoon motifs and graffiti’d scribbles to medieval tapestries, postmodern furniture and epic murals.

Dining

Gourmet Restaurant Schwarzenstein

Set amid the rolling vineyards of the Rheingau region on Frankfurt’s outskirts, chef Claudio Urru’s chic wine country eatery blends local and international ingredients into superb contemporary dishes.

Among the house specialties are veal with pumpkin and parsnip, guinea fowl with sweet potatoes, figs and mushrooms, and saddle of venison with walnut cream and cranberries.

The New York-style cheesecake is superb, as are the local Riesling and Sptburgunder (pinot noir) wines.

Though set on the grounds of Schwarzenstein Castle, the restaurant’s architecture is dramatically modern, the dining room inside a giant glass box overlooking the Rhine.

Zenzakan

This swank Westend eatery personifies the new wave of global cuisine that’s swept Frankfurt in recent years.

Both dcor and dishes summon the exotic East — Japan, China and Southeast Asia.

Giant Buddha heads, towering bamboo shafts and muted lighting give the dining room a temple-like feel.

The food is equally interesting. Among Zenzakan’s signature dishes are lobster soup with red Thai curry and lobster tempura, teriyaki glazed salmon, pepper-crusted miso black cod and “XO” hot chili pepper Georgia wildcat prawns.

Lafleur

It may seem sacrilegious to dine on classic French cuisine in one of the most thoroughly German cities, but Lafleur is the kind of restaurant that begs you to break convention.

Unveiled in the fall of 2012, the Michelin-star restaurant is located in a gorgeous Bauhaus building inside the Palmengarten, near the city center.

Austrian-born chef Alfred Friedrich has created a menu that’s among the best of Frankfurt, revolving around creative interpretations of traditional French dishes.

The menu ranges from suckling calf with broad beans, chanterelles and fregola sarda to fillet of St. Pierre in filo dough with crayfish and young leeks.

Main Tower Restaurant

On the 53rd floor of the eponymous skyscraper, the Main Tower Restaurant tenders Frankfurt’s best lunch and dinner vistas.

The three-, four- and five-course set menus change with the season and might include dishes like suckling pig, smoked halibut or pumpkin risotto.

There’s also a vegetarian option.

In the Lounge bar, you can try a selection of local white wines, international red wines and champagne in black-leather armchairs adjacent to floor-to-ceiling windows.

Caf Laumer

Renowned for its handmade cakes and pies, Caf Laumer has been a Frankfurt favorite since 1919.

Housed in a beautiful old building in the Westend university district, the caf serves breakfast, lunch and light dinner daily.

The extensive menu includes soups, salads, quiche, croissants and sandwiches as well as local specialties like schnitzel, sausages and Frankfurter tafelspitz (boiled beef in a green sauce). There’s also a range of teas and coffees, as well as wine, beer and spirits from around the continent.

Ebert’s Suppenstube

Located on the pedestrian-friendly Fressgass, Ebert’s is an eating institution among both Germans and expats.

As the name implies, this eclectic deli specializes in soups — vegetable, chicken, pea, potato, lentil, liver dumpling, goulash, chili con carne.

But there are all kinds of dishes — spinach fettuccine with veal strips in gorgonzola sauce, meatloaf with “gypsy sauce” and mashed potatoes, German-style pancakes with raisin and almond applesauce, and wild salmon fillet with leeks.

You can eat on the shaded sidewalk tables outside or “take away” food to nearby Bockenheimer Anlage park for a picnic around the water features and outdoor sculptures.

Nightlife

Kane & Abel

The good, the bad and the beautiful people flock to this upscale Frankfurt nightclub, where world-class DJs spin a wide variety of contemporary and classic dancehall tunes.

Premium tequilas, vodkas, whiskeys and tropical cocktails are served at the long tubular bar, and there’s plenty of champagne in the coolers for special occasions.

Bottle service is available in the exclusive golden niches at the back of the dance floor.

Kane & Abel, Goethestrasse 31-33; +49 160 9011 8257

Tigerpalast

A throwback to the golden age of German cabaret, the “Tiger Palace” presents a snazzy blend of live music, dance, comedy, mime, magic, acrobats and animal acts in a dinner-theater setting downtown.

Over the years, the show has embraced an increasing number of “nouveau cirque” performances like roller skating acrobatics, strap acts, avant-garde juggling and modern dance, enhanced by cutting edge sound and lighting techniques.

The club stages two shows a night of eight acts each.

Guests can opt for a dinner-show package or go solo (cover charge and drinks only).

Frankfurter Jazzkeller

American GIs brought jazz to Frankfurt after World War II and it wasn’t long before the city spawned the best jazz club in Europe.

Founded in 1952, the legendary Jazzkeller has hosted Louis Armstrong, Lionel Hampton, Frank Sinatra and Dizzy Gillespie.

The cozy basement club is still going strong after 60 years with live music four nights a week and a “cool music mix” dance party every Friday until well after midnight.

In addition to headliners, the club also showcases emerging jazz talents from Europe, Latin America and the U.S.

Adolf Wagner

Despite all of the great beer and wine produced in the region, Frankfurt’s favorite libation is apfelwein (apple wine).

Sachsenhausen on the south bank is renowned for its apfelwein taverns, none better than Adolf Wagner, established in 1931 and still owned by the same family.

Braeburn single variety apfelwein, created from fruit grown just outside of Frankfurt, is the house specialty.

The tavern also serves traditional German dishes like pork knuckles, schnitzel, sausages, potato salad and sauerkraut.

It’s a sprawling place with several distinct bar areas, and both indoor and outdoor seating during warmer weather.

Shopping

Zeil

The city’s main shopping street for more than a century, the Zeil stretches roughly a mile across central Frankfurt.

The eastern half is motorized, the western half a broad pedestrian street spangled with trees, outdoor cafes, department stores and boutiques.

Anchor tenants like Karstadt and Kaufhof have been there for what seems like forever.

But the ever-evolving thoroughfare has newer shopping places, in particular the flashy MyZeil, an American-style shopping mall with a fitness center, food court, game arcades and child care to complement the diverse shopping.

Kleidoskop

Frankfurt’s version of “thrift” shopping hawks barely-used designer frocks at a literal fraction of what you might pay in the branded boutiques on Goethestrasse.

Armani, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Alexander McQueen — the big names are here.

But Kleidoskop also offers plenty of new fashion from the best of Frankfurt’s hip, young designers, plus shoes, handbags, belts and other accessories.

It’s located in Nordend near the Eschenheimer Tor subway station.

Kleidoskop, Oeder Weg 56; +49 69 550 837

Eintract

Football fashion and accessories are the forte of this sporting goods store in the old town, not far from the Rmerberg square.

Jerseys, socks, posters, pennants, badges, bags, mugs, video games — you name it.

The shop takes its name from city’s pro soccer team (Eintract Frankfurt). And while the hometown squad may sell the majority of the merchandise, the shop also carries wares from every other Bundesliga team as well as foreign favorites like Barcelona, Manchester United and Juventas.

Eintract, Bethmannstrasse 19; +49 69 283 010

Bucherer

The Frankfurt branch of this Swiss luxury watch and jewelry emporium overlooks the Rossmarkt (Horse Market) square between downtown and the old town.

Given the wide selection, this two-story marketplace is without a doubt the best in Frankfurt for shopping high-end timepieces, diamonds, gold and other baubles.

In addition to its own creations, Bucherer carries treasures by Cartier, Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Chopard, Patek Philippe and other luxury lines.

Bucherer, Kaiserstrasse 1, +49 69 138 821 04

Hchster Porzellan-Manufaktur

Germany’s second oldest porcelain maker has been creating fine plates, cups and animal figurines since 1746, when it received a royal license from the crown prince and archbishop of Mainz.

The company’s “transparent manufactory” in west Frankfurt includes a walkthrough factory tour, during which visitors see the entire creative process from start to finish, as well as a chance to browse the showroom for take-home treasures.

Hchster Porzellan-Manufaktur, Palleskestrasse 32, Hchst; +49 69 300 902 40

Attractions

Rmerberg

This cobblestone square in the old town has been a hub of Frankfurt life since the 9th century.

It’s served as a venue for many of the city’s most important events, from imperial elections and medieval jousting to public executions and Christmas fairs.

Here are found historic buildings including the Old Nikolai Church, St. Paul’s Church and the structure from which the square takes its name — the exquisite Rmer, home of Frankfurt’s city government for more than 600 years. The Imperial Hall displays the portraits of the 52 Holy Roman emperors.

Due south of the square is the Frankfurt History Museum, highlighted by the permanent collection, “Collectors and Donors of Frankfurt,” which features the private art and artifact collections of a dozen well-known Frankfurters.

Alte Oper

Frankfurt’s old opera isn’t nearly as ancient as it looks.

The handsome neoclassical structure was almost completely destroyed during World War II and not rebuilt until the 1980s after a public outcry saved it from demolition.

The building now hosts around 300 events per year ranging from opera, ballet and symphony to modern dance, Broadway musicals and even the occasional rock concert.

The 2,450-seat Great Hall is the main venue, while smaller events unfold in the 720-seat Mozart Hall. Both are renowned for their plush decoration and superb acoustics.

Frankfurt Zoological Gardens

One of Europe’s oldest zoos (1858) is also one of its largest and most prestigious, with more than 4,500 animals housed in an ever-increasing number of modern habitats.

Under the leadership of longtime director Bernhard Grzimek, the zoo also became a leading force in global conservation, including the preservation of the Serengeti plains in East Africa.

Among its anchor exhibits is the Exotarium, housing an eclectic array of fish, birds and reptiles from the around the world.

Chimps, gorillas and orangutans dwell in the Borgori Forest, a 10,000-square-meter indoor habitat flush with waterfalls and rainforest plants.

Goethe House & Museum

Johann Wolfgang Goethe, Germany’s most celebrated author, was born in this four-story townhouse in Frankfurt’s old town in 1749.

A multi-talented bard, Goethe wrote poetry and prose, scientific papers and memoirs, and more than 10,000 letters.

Mozart and Beethoven were among the many composers who set his words to music.

Filled with period art and antiques, the house has exhibits on Goethe’s life in Frankfurt as well as his early works and inspirations.

The adjoining museum, housed in a modern glass-fronted building, contains art by German painters of the Romantic period.

Museum Embankment

Arrayed along the River Main’s southern bank is a row of nine museums, each specializing in subject matter ranging from art and architecture to movies and natural history.

Foremost among them are two important art collections.

Housed in an imposing neo-gothic villa, the Liebieghaus showcases sculpture from ancient Egypt through the 18th century, as well as works from Europe, Africa and Asia.

The massive collection of the Stdel Museum includes works by European masters of the 14th through early 20th centuries including Rembrandt, Bosch, Vermeer, Botticelli and Degas.

Along the Main

With a renowned airport and busy train station, it’s easy to forget that Frankfurt is also a river city, but its full name is Frankfurt am Main.

It’s only in recent times, however, that the River Main has come into its own as a recreational outlet and tourist attraction.

Primus’ Nautilus cruiser.

River Cruises

Primus Line runs a variety of trips along the Main in modern triple-decker river boats including short sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises and after-dark skyline tours.

Its full day trips include an upstream cruise to Seligenstadt monastery and Aschaffenburg Castle, as well as a downstream trip to the confluence of the Main and Rhine and the romantic castle towns along the Middle Rhine Valley.

All trips depart from the north bank (Mainkai), just upstream from the Eiserner Steg bridge.

Commentary comes in both English and German.

Frankfurter Flohmarkt

Frankfurt’s popular Saturday flea market now rotates between two waterfront locations — the Schaumainkai promenade on the river’s south side and a new site on Lindleystrasse around the Osthafen docklands.

Hundreds of stalls hawk a heady blend of new arts and crafts, vintage clothing, antiques and genuine junk, as well as food and drink.

Merchandise often changes by the season, with yuletide decorations, gifts and foods all the rage in the run-up to Christmas.

The market runs 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Beaches

Like other river cities in central Europe, one of the hottest summer trends in Frankfurt is pop-up beaches at spots along the Main.

In addition to sandy strands and swimming spots, these mock tropical hangouts feature beach chairs and colorful umbrellas, sand volleyball courts, tents serving food and drinks, boules and other games, and either live bands or DJs spinning the latest summer sounds from around the world.

The King Kamehameha Beach Club at the western (downstream) tip of Hafeninsel Island is probably the best known, but the number is growing with each new summer.

Other Frankfurt strands include Orange Beach in Griesheim and Niddastrand Beach Club on the Nidda River.

Westhafen

Frankfurt’s latest river renewal project is Westhafen, a mixed-use residential, retail and marina complex on the northern bank of the Main.

Scattered along the waterfront are a number of eateries and drinking spots with spectacular waterfront settings: Caf & Bar Marina Westhafen, with its outdoor tables and wooden deck; the Druckwasserwerk restaurant, inside an old Romanesque Revival-style powerhouse; and the ultra-mod Frankfurter Botschaft, with its huge picture windows overlooking the harbor and sandy garden.

Rheingau

The Rheingau wine country sprawls along the Main and Rhine to the west of Frankfurt, producing what many oenophiles consider the world’s best Riesling.

While white grapes are the area’s bread and butter, the Rheingau also produces excellent Sptburgunder (pinot noir).

Legend holds that Charlemagne mandated the planting of the first vines more than a thousand years ago, but it was Queen Victoria who brought the region’s wines to world attention when she became enamored with the Riesling produced by the vineyards around Hochheim village.

A sampling of the region’s renowned wineries:

from All Of Beer http://allofbeer.com/frankfurt-insider-travel-guide/ from All of Beer https://allofbeercom.tumblr.com/post/178162707682

[allofbeercom]

Frankfurt: Insider Travel Guide

(CNN)Frankfurt looks and feels more like a modern American city than any other German metropolis. The towering steel-and-glass skyline spawned the nickname “Mainhattan,” while its more than 300 banks — and the German stock market — prompt others to call it “Bankfurt.”

Almost completely destroyed during World War II, Frankfurt’s Altstadt (Old Town) is a model of architectural resurrection and adaptive reuse, a maze of cobblestone streets and squares flanked by medieval churches, palaces and townhouses.

Across the river is leafy Sachsenhausen with its apple wine taverns and museum row. On either side of Goethe University, Westend and Bockenheim offer bohemian alternatives to the glitz of nearby downtown.

Though the city’s population falls just short of 700,000, Frankfurt feels like a bigger town where big experiences await. Here’s where to find the biggest and best of them.

More German Insider Travel Guides: Berlin | Munich

Hotels

Luxury

Jumeirah Frankfurt

With its glass tower and shiny saddleback roof, the 28-story Jumeirah holds its own among the architectural icons of downtown.

But the ultramodern abode stands out in many other ways, from the rooftop beehives that produce the hotel’s own honey to body-heat detectors and motion sensors that regulate temperatures and energy consumption in the guest rooms.

Overlooking the Zeil pedestrian precinct and a seven-minute walk from Goethstrasse, the Jumeirah boasts a best of Frankfurt location for a shopping expedition.

The main train station and old town are also within walking distance.

Villa Kennedy

The neo-Gothic facade of this former family mansion (built in 1904) belies an edgy interior that mixes minimalist furnishings and intriguing modern art.

Guests gather in the back courtyard for drinks, chats and sunshine, but that’s not the villa’s only attraction.

In addition to a wide range of health and beauty treatments, the Villa Spa has a 15-meter indoor swimming pool flanked by potted palms.

Meanwhile, restaurant Gusto offers fine Italian cuisine and al fresco eating during the warmer months.

The resident mixologist at JFK’s Bar dares you to name a cocktail that he can’t create.

Mid-range

Hotel Gerbermhle

Frankfurt’s wildest new hotel overlooks the river and Osthafen docklands on the central city’s eastern edge.

Built as a flourmill in 1520, the stout riverside structure is where the writer Goethe met his first love.

Now it’s an art hotel with dcor that ranges from antique (exposed stone walls) to offbeat (horse lamps).

The 18 rooms and suites are thoroughly modern, with Wi-Fi, widescreen TVs and marble bathrooms.

The riverside Summer Garden offers cold beer and traditional German snacks, while the indoor Winter Garden specializes in modern German food including local specialties like Grne Sosse (hard-boiled eggs and potatoes in a green sauce).

Budget

Art-Hotel Robert Mayer

Located in Frankfurt’s Bockenheim district, the Robert Mayer blends Bohemian vibes and modern technology in a small, comfortable hotel that’s Frankfurt’s best value.

Local artists were commissioned to design each of the 12 guest rooms inside this early 20th-century townhouse.

The result is eclectic dcor that ranges from cartoon motifs and graffiti’d scribbles to medieval tapestries, postmodern furniture and epic murals.

Dining

Gourmet Restaurant Schwarzenstein

Set amid the rolling vineyards of the Rheingau region on Frankfurt’s outskirts, chef Claudio Urru’s chic wine country eatery blends local and international ingredients into superb contemporary dishes.

Among the house specialties are veal with pumpkin and parsnip, guinea fowl with sweet potatoes, figs and mushrooms, and saddle of venison with walnut cream and cranberries.

The New York-style cheesecake is superb, as are the local Riesling and Sptburgunder (pinot noir) wines.

Though set on the grounds of Schwarzenstein Castle, the restaurant’s architecture is dramatically modern, the dining room inside a giant glass box overlooking the Rhine.

Zenzakan

This swank Westend eatery personifies the new wave of global cuisine that’s swept Frankfurt in recent years.

Both dcor and dishes summon the exotic East — Japan, China and Southeast Asia.

Giant Buddha heads, towering bamboo shafts and muted lighting give the dining room a temple-like feel.

The food is equally interesting. Among Zenzakan’s signature dishes are lobster soup with red Thai curry and lobster tempura, teriyaki glazed salmon, pepper-crusted miso black cod and “XO” hot chili pepper Georgia wildcat prawns.

Lafleur

It may seem sacrilegious to dine on classic French cuisine in one of the most thoroughly German cities, but Lafleur is the kind of restaurant that begs you to break convention.

Unveiled in the fall of 2012, the Michelin-star restaurant is located in a gorgeous Bauhaus building inside the Palmengarten, near the city center.

Austrian-born chef Alfred Friedrich has created a menu that’s among the best of Frankfurt, revolving around creative interpretations of traditional French dishes.

The menu ranges from suckling calf with broad beans, chanterelles and fregola sarda to fillet of St. Pierre in filo dough with crayfish and young leeks.

Main Tower Restaurant

On the 53rd floor of the eponymous skyscraper, the Main Tower Restaurant tenders Frankfurt’s best lunch and dinner vistas.

The three-, four- and five-course set menus change with the season and might include dishes like suckling pig, smoked halibut or pumpkin risotto.

There’s also a vegetarian option.

In the Lounge bar, you can try a selection of local white wines, international red wines and champagne in black-leather armchairs adjacent to floor-to-ceiling windows.

Caf Laumer

Renowned for its handmade cakes and pies, Caf Laumer has been a Frankfurt favorite since 1919.

Housed in a beautiful old building in the Westend university district, the caf serves breakfast, lunch and light dinner daily.

The extensive menu includes soups, salads, quiche, croissants and sandwiches as well as local specialties like schnitzel, sausages and Frankfurter tafelspitz (boiled beef in a green sauce). There’s also a range of teas and coffees, as well as wine, beer and spirits from around the continent.

Ebert’s Suppenstube

Located on the pedestrian-friendly Fressgass, Ebert’s is an eating institution among both Germans and expats.

As the name implies, this eclectic deli specializes in soups — vegetable, chicken, pea, potato, lentil, liver dumpling, goulash, chili con carne.

But there are all kinds of dishes — spinach fettuccine with veal strips in gorgonzola sauce, meatloaf with “gypsy sauce” and mashed potatoes, German-style pancakes with raisin and almond applesauce, and wild salmon fillet with leeks.

You can eat on the shaded sidewalk tables outside or “take away” food to nearby Bockenheimer Anlage park for a picnic around the water features and outdoor sculptures.

Nightlife

Kane & Abel

The good, the bad and the beautiful people flock to this upscale Frankfurt nightclub, where world-class DJs spin a wide variety of contemporary and classic dancehall tunes.

Premium tequilas, vodkas, whiskeys and tropical cocktails are served at the long tubular bar, and there’s plenty of champagne in the coolers for special occasions.

Bottle service is available in the exclusive golden niches at the back of the dance floor.

Kane & Abel, Goethestrasse 31-33; +49 160 9011 8257

Tigerpalast

A throwback to the golden age of German cabaret, the “Tiger Palace” presents a snazzy blend of live music, dance, comedy, mime, magic, acrobats and animal acts in a dinner-theater setting downtown.

Over the years, the show has embraced an increasing number of “nouveau cirque” performances like roller skating acrobatics, strap acts, avant-garde juggling and modern dance, enhanced by cutting edge sound and lighting techniques.

The club stages two shows a night of eight acts each.

Guests can opt for a dinner-show package or go solo (cover charge and drinks only).

Frankfurter Jazzkeller

American GIs brought jazz to Frankfurt after World War II and it wasn’t long before the city spawned the best jazz club in Europe.

Founded in 1952, the legendary Jazzkeller has hosted Louis Armstrong, Lionel Hampton, Frank Sinatra and Dizzy Gillespie.

The cozy basement club is still going strong after 60 years with live music four nights a week and a “cool music mix” dance party every Friday until well after midnight.

In addition to headliners, the club also showcases emerging jazz talents from Europe, Latin America and the U.S.

Adolf Wagner

Despite all of the great beer and wine produced in the region, Frankfurt’s favorite libation is apfelwein (apple wine).

Sachsenhausen on the south bank is renowned for its apfelwein taverns, none better than Adolf Wagner, established in 1931 and still owned by the same family.

Braeburn single variety apfelwein, created from fruit grown just outside of Frankfurt, is the house specialty.

The tavern also serves traditional German dishes like pork knuckles, schnitzel, sausages, potato salad and sauerkraut.

It’s a sprawling place with several distinct bar areas, and both indoor and outdoor seating during warmer weather.

Shopping

Zeil

The city’s main shopping street for more than a century, the Zeil stretches roughly a mile across central Frankfurt.

The eastern half is motorized, the western half a broad pedestrian street spangled with trees, outdoor cafes, department stores and boutiques.

Anchor tenants like Karstadt and Kaufhof have been there for what seems like forever.

But the ever-evolving thoroughfare has newer shopping places, in particular the flashy MyZeil, an American-style shopping mall with a fitness center, food court, game arcades and child care to complement the diverse shopping.

Kleidoskop

Frankfurt’s version of “thrift” shopping hawks barely-used designer frocks at a literal fraction of what you might pay in the branded boutiques on Goethestrasse.

Armani, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Alexander McQueen — the big names are here.

But Kleidoskop also offers plenty of new fashion from the best of Frankfurt’s hip, young designers, plus shoes, handbags, belts and other accessories.

It’s located in Nordend near the Eschenheimer Tor subway station.

Kleidoskop, Oeder Weg 56; +49 69 550 837

Eintract

Football fashion and accessories are the forte of this sporting goods store in the old town, not far from the Rmerberg square.

Jerseys, socks, posters, pennants, badges, bags, mugs, video games — you name it.

The shop takes its name from city’s pro soccer team (Eintract Frankfurt). And while the hometown squad may sell the majority of the merchandise, the shop also carries wares from every other Bundesliga team as well as foreign favorites like Barcelona, Manchester United and Juventas.

Eintract, Bethmannstrasse 19; +49 69 283 010

Bucherer

The Frankfurt branch of this Swiss luxury watch and jewelry emporium overlooks the Rossmarkt (Horse Market) square between downtown and the old town.

Given the wide selection, this two-story marketplace is without a doubt the best in Frankfurt for shopping high-end timepieces, diamonds, gold and other baubles.

In addition to its own creations, Bucherer carries treasures by Cartier, Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Chopard, Patek Philippe and other luxury lines.

Bucherer, Kaiserstrasse 1, +49 69 138 821 04

Hchster Porzellan-Manufaktur

Germany’s second oldest porcelain maker has been creating fine plates, cups and animal figurines since 1746, when it received a royal license from the crown prince and archbishop of Mainz.

The company’s “transparent manufactory” in west Frankfurt includes a walkthrough factory tour, during which visitors see the entire creative process from start to finish, as well as a chance to browse the showroom for take-home treasures.

Hchster Porzellan-Manufaktur, Palleskestrasse 32, Hchst; +49 69 300 902 40

Attractions

Rmerberg

This cobblestone square in the old town has been a hub of Frankfurt life since the 9th century.

It’s served as a venue for many of the city’s most important events, from imperial elections and medieval jousting to public executions and Christmas fairs.

Here are found historic buildings including the Old Nikolai Church, St. Paul’s Church and the structure from which the square takes its name — the exquisite Rmer, home of Frankfurt’s city government for more than 600 years. The Imperial Hall displays the portraits of the 52 Holy Roman emperors.

Due south of the square is the Frankfurt History Museum, highlighted by the permanent collection, “Collectors and Donors of Frankfurt,” which features the private art and artifact collections of a dozen well-known Frankfurters.

Alte Oper

Frankfurt’s old opera isn’t nearly as ancient as it looks.

The handsome neoclassical structure was almost completely destroyed during World War II and not rebuilt until the 1980s after a public outcry saved it from demolition.

The building now hosts around 300 events per year ranging from opera, ballet and symphony to modern dance, Broadway musicals and even the occasional rock concert.

The 2,450-seat Great Hall is the main venue, while smaller events unfold in the 720-seat Mozart Hall. Both are renowned for their plush decoration and superb acoustics.

Frankfurt Zoological Gardens

One of Europe’s oldest zoos (1858) is also one of its largest and most prestigious, with more than 4,500 animals housed in an ever-increasing number of modern habitats.

Under the leadership of longtime director Bernhard Grzimek, the zoo also became a leading force in global conservation, including the preservation of the Serengeti plains in East Africa.

Among its anchor exhibits is the Exotarium, housing an eclectic array of fish, birds and reptiles from the around the world.

Chimps, gorillas and orangutans dwell in the Borgori Forest, a 10,000-square-meter indoor habitat flush with waterfalls and rainforest plants.

Goethe House & Museum

Johann Wolfgang Goethe, Germany’s most celebrated author, was born in this four-story townhouse in Frankfurt’s old town in 1749.

A multi-talented bard, Goethe wrote poetry and prose, scientific papers and memoirs, and more than 10,000 letters.

Mozart and Beethoven were among the many composers who set his words to music.

Filled with period art and antiques, the house has exhibits on Goethe’s life in Frankfurt as well as his early works and inspirations.

The adjoining museum, housed in a modern glass-fronted building, contains art by German painters of the Romantic period.

Museum Embankment

Arrayed along the River Main’s southern bank is a row of nine museums, each specializing in subject matter ranging from art and architecture to movies and natural history.

Foremost among them are two important art collections.

Housed in an imposing neo-gothic villa, the Liebieghaus showcases sculpture from ancient Egypt through the 18th century, as well as works from Europe, Africa and Asia.

The massive collection of the Stdel Museum includes works by European masters of the 14th through early 20th centuries including Rembrandt, Bosch, Vermeer, Botticelli and Degas.

Along the Main

With a renowned airport and busy train station, it’s easy to forget that Frankfurt is also a river city, but its full name is Frankfurt am Main.

It’s only in recent times, however, that the River Main has come into its own as a recreational outlet and tourist attraction.

Primus’ Nautilus cruiser.

River Cruises

Primus Line runs a variety of trips along the Main in modern triple-decker river boats including short sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises and after-dark skyline tours.

Its full day trips include an upstream cruise to Seligenstadt monastery and Aschaffenburg Castle, as well as a downstream trip to the confluence of the Main and Rhine and the romantic castle towns along the Middle Rhine Valley.

All trips depart from the north bank (Mainkai), just upstream from the Eiserner Steg bridge.

Commentary comes in both English and German.

Frankfurter Flohmarkt

Frankfurt’s popular Saturday flea market now rotates between two waterfront locations — the Schaumainkai promenade on the river’s south side and a new site on Lindleystrasse around the Osthafen docklands.

Hundreds of stalls hawk a heady blend of new arts and crafts, vintage clothing, antiques and genuine junk, as well as food and drink.

Merchandise often changes by the season, with yuletide decorations, gifts and foods all the rage in the run-up to Christmas.

The market runs 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Beaches

Like other river cities in central Europe, one of the hottest summer trends in Frankfurt is pop-up beaches at spots along the Main.

In addition to sandy strands and swimming spots, these mock tropical hangouts feature beach chairs and colorful umbrellas, sand volleyball courts, tents serving food and drinks, boules and other games, and either live bands or DJs spinning the latest summer sounds from around the world.

The King Kamehameha Beach Club at the western (downstream) tip of Hafeninsel Island is probably the best known, but the number is growing with each new summer.

Other Frankfurt strands include Orange Beach in Griesheim and Niddastrand Beach Club on the Nidda River.

Westhafen

Frankfurt’s latest river renewal project is Westhafen, a mixed-use residential, retail and marina complex on the northern bank of the Main.

Scattered along the waterfront are a number of eateries and drinking spots with spectacular waterfront settings: Caf & Bar Marina Westhafen, with its outdoor tables and wooden deck; the Druckwasserwerk restaurant, inside an old Romanesque Revival-style powerhouse; and the ultra-mod Frankfurter Botschaft, with its huge picture windows overlooking the harbor and sandy garden.

Rheingau

The Rheingau wine country sprawls along the Main and Rhine to the west of Frankfurt, producing what many oenophiles consider the world’s best Riesling.

While white grapes are the area’s bread and butter, the Rheingau also produces excellent Sptburgunder (pinot noir).

Legend holds that Charlemagne mandated the planting of the first vines more than a thousand years ago, but it was Queen Victoria who brought the region’s wines to world attention when she became enamored with the Riesling produced by the vineyards around Hochheim village.

A sampling of the region’s renowned wineries:

from All Of Beer http://allofbeer.com/frankfurt-insider-travel-guide/

[besttravelaccessoriescollec-blog]

Best Travel Gadgets

Some of them are just too fun to miss, others add extra convenience to our experiences, yet others open up new realms in the world of technology. You’ve guessed it: we’re talking about travel gadgets! These smart tools that have forever changed the way we experience the world are life-savers for today’s travelers.

Here are 27 cool travel gadgets ready to make your trips safer, easier, or simply more enjoyable.

Leica Q “Snow” Digital Camera

Designed in collaboration with Olympic snowboarding champion Iouri Podladtchikov, the limited “Snow” edition of Leica Q stands out for its stylish white exterior in premium cowhide leather and silver-anodized finish.

Limited to 300 units, this special model features the same outstanding technical specifications as the regular Q (Typ 116) digital camera, including the 24.2 MP full-frame sensor, fast prime Summilux lens, and Maestro II processor. Each Leica Q Snow has an exclusive serial number engraved on its hot shoe, and comes equipped with an exquisite white leather carrying case and color-matched strap.

Needless to say, this luxurious, winter-inspired camera makes for a fantastic photography experience, wherever the road may take you.

Pocket-Size Washing Machine

Whether you are backpacking through Europe, going on an African safari, or traveling on a budget in South Asia, you are going to love the Scrubba Wash Bag. Equipped with a flexible washboard, this lightweight, pocket-size wash bag will not only help you do your laundry anywhere on the road, but also save you money and time. With only 2-4 liters of water and a bit of washing liquid, you’ll have your clothes fresh and clean in less than 3 minutes.

Sandless Beach Mat

Calling all beach lovers! The Sandless Beach Mat is a revolutionary beach accessory that’s literally impossible to cover with sand. Initially intended for military uses, this clever sand-free ground sheet is perfect for a fun and stress free beach outing. Finally, no more annoyingly sticky sand! Now you can make the most of your seaside experience while lounging in the warm sunshine, reading a book, or spreading out a picnic.

The Sandless Beach Tote

The Sandless Beach Tote stands out from the crowd thanks to its special material, which, due to its two layers of patented woven PVC/PE, prevents it from filling with sand. Moreover, the bag is designed to keep mold and mildew away, and comes equipped with shoulder straps, reinforced box stitch seams, and an internal pocket to fit your wallet or phone.

Handmade Vintage Backpack

Who says a backpack has to be bulky and boring? Handmade from waxed canvas and reclaimed leather, the compact Lundy bag is as chic as it is practical. A reliable travel companion for a weekend getaway or a quick city break, this handsome carry-all features a handy front button pocket and 2 interior compartments lined with durable cotton fabric. Plus, its sturdy, fully adjustable backstraps will leave your arms and hands free to move, while its timeless, vintage inspired design, which goes with nearly any look, will make you feel stylish and confident throughout your trip.

World’s Smallest Travel Steam Iron

Featuring a 420-watt motor and three fabric heating levels, this mini travel steam iron is the smallest of its kind in the world. The compact device is about the size of a computer mouse and can be extremely useful for business travelers who are on the road and need to remove the inevitable wrinkles from packed clothing.

Smallest Automated Travel Vacuum

Small, smart, and stylish, VAGO is the ultimate travel packing gadget. Equipped with a pressure detecting sensor, this automatic vacuum pump removes all the air inside your suitcase, condensing the clothes to half their size, thus leaving plenty of room for souvenirs and other things you may buy on your trip.

It’s an essential travel tool, especially if you’re adding a bit of shopping to your trip, or traveling somewhere cold and need to bring along some heavy winter wear.

Flask Light

Part flashlight, part booze container, this unique multifunctional tool is an awesome travel accessory for glamping enthusiasts, festival goers, fishing aficionados, and anyone in between.

In addition to holding 10 ounces of your favorite beverage, the VSSL Flask includes 2 collapsible stainless steel shot cups, a bottle opener, a compass, and a powerful LED flood beam flashlight. If you ask me, I’m pretty sure this would also make an inspired gift for the outdoor adventurer in your life.

Luggage Scooter

Finding the best carry-on luggage for your next vacation depends on a number of factors, including your personal style, needs, and design preferences.

A practical, stylish, and fun travel accessory, the Micro 3in1 Luggage Scooter helps travelers move around quickly and easily. Designed in collaboration with DJ Steve Aoki, this innovative trolley that doubles as a kickboard scooter also has Bluetooth Sound2Go speakers incorporated for listening music while gliding your way through the airport. Carrying your luggage will never be boring again with this multifunctional travel gadget!

Video Recording Sunglasses

Snapchat (now Snap)’s fans will fall in love with the company’s newfangled video recording glasses called Spectacles. The product is not just cool and good looking, but it actually protects your eyes from the sun, too. Its main function, however, is to record snaps of your day and sync them to your Snapchat Memories, which makes it a fun travel accessory, whether you’re playing tourist in your own city or heading overseas.

The eyewear comes in three colors (black, coral, and teal), and has a small camera built into the frame, allowing users to capture 10-second clips and send them to their iPhone or Android smartphone via the Snapchat app, all without using their hands. The glasses’ bright yellow case doubles as portable battery charger and includes a USB cable and a ghost-shaped cleaning cloth.

Portable Cocktail Kit

What better way to get in the vacation spirit than with a portable cocktail kit, equipped with everything you need to craft two proper beverages in style, anywhere, anytime? Compact enough to fit in a pocket, W&P’s slick Carry-On Cocktail Kit is the best bet for mixologists on the go, offering a handy recipe card, stainless steel spoon/muddler, linen coaster, and all the ingredients for two proper in-flight concoctions.

Depending on your preferences, there are a variety of travel sets to choose from, from Champagne and Bloody Marry to Gin & Tonic and the original Old Fashioned.

Hi-Tech Foot Warmers

Foot warmers are known for making winter activities as comfortable and enjoyable as a day at the beach, but the innovative ThermaCELL Heated Insoles will take your feet comfort to the next level. Equipped with state-of-the-art thermal technology, these remote-controlled foot warmers will keep your feet warm and dry thanks to a thermostat-driven control system and a water-resistant fabric liner which protects them from moisture.

Backpack Drink Dispenser

Ideal for outdoor gatherings, music festivals, and sport events, the ingenious Tailgater Dual Tank Backpack Drink Dispenser allows you to kick off the party by pouring mixed drinks for friends and family straight from your backpack.

Best Travel Drone

With its 4K camera, intuitive smartphone control, and a staggering 27 minutes of flying time, DJI’s Mavic Pro is no doubt, one of the best travel drones out there. The compact, portable device is packed with intelligent features and can fly as far as 4.3 miles away, allowing you to capture the beauty of your surroundings in flawless HD video at 4K/30fps or 1080p/96fps, as well as photographs in 12MP Raw or JPG format.

Perfect for travelers always eager to immortalize and share their adventures on the go, this sleek & silent high-tech flying camera comes with GPS, front-facing optical sensors that help it avoid obstacles, as well as 11 cool flight modes, including tripod and selfie settings.

Female Urination Device

Travel is not always glamorous, especially when seeking to experience the world on a budget. Unsanitary hostel bathrooms, camping sites with poor facilities, and dirty public toilets are just some of the problems travelers have to deal with while abroad. Well, designed exclusively for women, GoGirl solves many of these issues by allowing girls to pee while standing up. Besides, this smart hygiene product made from medical grade silicone is small enough to fit in your purse.

Wine Bag

Designed by Jakob Wagner, the Menu Baggy Winecoat is a stylish and practical wine bag ideal for picnics, romantic beach dinners, and other alfresco occasions that require meals away from home. Despite being easily portable, this hard-wearing, adjustable wine tote is quite fancy, and, if you want your wine chilled, it also has room for an ice pack.

goTenna

Inspired by the disaster rescue and recovery operations following Hurricane Sandy,goTenna has been designed to keep Android or iOS devices connected even when there is no cellular service. Made of rugged materials, this pocket-sized two-way radio and antenna uses Bluetooth-LE to pair with a smartphone. This innovative technology allows users who possess the device to share messages and location info instantly within a range of up to 50 miles in ideal conditions.

Best Multisport GPS Watch

Combine style and adventure with the new Garmin Fenix 5, one of the best multisport outdoor watches on the market. Complete with a wide range of tracking capabilities, plus built-in GPS and smart notifications, this versatile, lightweight device has you covered whether you’re skiing in the Alps, swimming in the Med, of hiking off the beaten path in Nepal. Available in multiple models, with a selection of QuickFit interchangeable bands (in premium leather, metal, or silicone) to choose from.

Personalized Sand Imprint Flip Flops

Leave your thoughts in the sand with these fun, original, and affordable sandals by FlipSidez. All you have to do is choose your size and color, add a creative text or symbol, and wait for your made-to-order flip flops to be delivered. You can wear them as a cool beach accessory that will cheer up your friends, give them as a personalized gift, or use them to express your individuality and send messages.

Credit Card Folding Utility Knife

With its sleek design and surgical blade technology with an extra long 65mm cutting edge, Cardsharp2 is indeed an excellent travel gadget. Ideal for explorers, adventurers, and any well-prepared traveler out there, this stylish 13-gram credit card folding knife is constructed from ultralight polypropylene, making for a sophisticated cooking knife, but also an extremely useful survivor tool when hiking or camping in the woods.

Solar-Powered Inflatable Light

If you’re looking for a smart and sustainable source of light for your next adventure, look no further than LuminAID. After 6-7 hours of charging in the sun, this innovative inflatable lamp produces up to 16 hours of LED light. Not to mention it’s portable, waterproof, and weighs around 56 grams.

Best Camping Hammock

Rated the best camping hammock in the world by American Survival Guide and many other leading magazines specialized in travel gear, the Blue Ridge Camping Hammock is essential if you want to experience the wilderness like a pro. Designed for difficult climates and terrain, this waterproof tent hammock made of ripstop nylon features a net canopy, and can also be used as bivy tent.

Wireless Portable Speaker

Allowing people to listen to music anytime, anywhere, a portable speaker is a must-have for any traveler who wants to make the most of the outdoors without compromising on any of the luxuries of the indoors. Featuring two 40mm speakers, a built-in microphone, and a 10-hour rechargeable battery, Scosche’s boomBOTTLE is one of the best in its category thanks to its remarkable mix of rugged waterproof construction and high-end audio.

Water Purifier Bottle

Most of travelers’ health problems are caused by contaminated drinking water, which means a water purification system is a must when traveling abroad. This is especially useful when venturing in remote locations with harsh environmental conditions or destinations such as the Middle East, Central America, Asia, or Africa, which are also known for their unsafe tap water. Fortunately, these days there are many products designed to help in such circumstances.

CamelBak All Clear, for instance, is a state-of-the-art device capable of transforming almost any tap or clear natural water source into pure drinking water in just 60 seconds. The 0.75-liter water purifier bottle is equipped with rechargeable lithium ion batteries and uses UV light to neutralize viruses and bacteria. Overall, this is an excellent way to save money on bottled water and get safe drinking water while on the go.

Ostrich Pillow

Ostrich Pillow is an extremely useful accessory for when you’re on the go and just need a quick nap to refresh and increase productivity. Envisioned by Kawamura-Ganjavian architecture and design studio, this groundbreaking product prevents jet lag – a common problem for long distance travelers – by providing you with a micro sleeping environment. Although it might seem a little weird, its design is fun and intuitive, featuring polystyrene filling and a soft interior that allows you to sleep anytime, anywhere without being distracted by noise, light, and other things going on around you.

Iron Man Charger

A unique Marvel-inspired gadget, the Iron Man Mark V Armor Suitcase Mobile Fuel Cell comes equipped with an outstanding 12,000 mAh battery capacity, helping you power your mobile devices on the go. The charger is compatible with most smartphones and any other USB-compatible gear, and its two USB ports allow you to charge two devices simultaneously. Bound to thrill any Iron Man fan, this cool gizmo is actually a 1/4 scale replica of the original suitcase that brings to life Tony Stark’s armor in Iron Man 2’s Grand Prix de Monaco race track scene.

Smartphone Breathalyzer

Compatible with iPhone and Android devices, the BACtrack Vio Smartphone Keychain Breathalyzer is a fun and affordable way to estimate your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). The gizmo is shaped like a USB flash drive and connects to your smartphone via the free BACtrack app. Be aware though, this breathalyzer doesn’t have a professional-grade sensor integrated, so don’t use it to judge whether or not you are sober enough to drive.