Since I travel a lot for work I am always looking for the perfect travel tote as my trusty companion. I need it to be large enough to carry a stack of magazines and then some. I have this really bad habit of carrying bags that are half the size of me. I’m only 5′2 but the larger the tote the more attracted to it I am - I don’t care if it looks out of proportion.

I think this season is the best time to purchase a tote and take advantage of the color-blocking trend. Contrast color and color-blocking is a great way to make something look distinctive. Love love this American Retro two tone leather tote from www.luisaviaroma.com. ($319.00)

When London, UK leather bag designer Bill Amerg and Business … more …

Designer digs for a fraction of the price. Yes please. Check out these outlets that offer heavily discounted luxury items from just a seasons or two past. Also, if you’re from the US or Canada and shopping at one of the outlets in Europe, don’t forget to claim your tax refund of 12% upon returning home.

Bicester Village - England
Brands: Agent Provocateur, Alexander McQueen, Anya Hindmarch, CELINE, Dior, Fendi, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Marni, Missoni, Moncler, Paul Smith, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Salvatore Ferragamo, Thomas Pink, Tod’s, Vivienne Westwood, Yves Saint Laurent

Address: 50 Pingel Drive Bicester Oxfordshire OX26 6WD, England

Hotel Recommendation: Retire after a day of shopping at Coworth Park,  just 60 km. away from the outlet.

FoxTown Outlets, Mendrisio - Switzerland
Brands: Dior, Ferragamo, Jill Sander, Missoni, Prada, Valentino

Address: Via A. Maspoli 18. … more …

If you have not been to Vegas recently you’ll need to visit the new addition on the strip, the City Center. This massive center should get it’s own zip-code and is the luxury melting pot of dining and shopping - It’s all luxury 24/7.

Stay: One of three hotels in City Center, the Aria Resort & Casino received the highest level of recognition, 5 Green Keys, from the Green Key Eco-Rating Program, the largest international program evaluating sustainable hotel operations. It also has advanced guestroom technology that puts you in total control, allowing you to customize the lighting, room temperature, and music. Best thing ever, over-sized towel. I can not stand hotels that give you miniature towels in the bathroom that barely cover your private parts.

Shop: For the most exhilarating shopping experience, … more …

Timing – Check in later, between 4-6PM as the front desk can see the cancellations and no-shows of that day. Also, if your dates are flexible, don’t book on busy holiday times, as upgrades cannot be given if a hotel is at full occupancy.

Book a room in the middle price range – It’s not impossible to get upgraded when booking the cheapest room category available, but it doesn’t help your odds. Book a room that is in the mid range for better chances.

Be Nice – It’s that simple. Front desk staff and hotel managers deal with a lot of people and handle a lot of problems and stress during their day. Sometimes, just being personable, and friendly can go a long way.

Ask – It doesn’t hurt to ask, and … more …

As an avid traveler, I know how difficult it is to find decent travel gear and this is why I love QWSTION so much. This Swedish based company aims to question the norm of travel bags in a modern environment. If you are looking for a unisex travel bag line that is perfectly positioned between casual and dressy, these are the bags for you.

They currently offer 5 styles: the weekender, office bag, organizer, backpack and my favourite the 3 day travel bag all made with water-repellent canvas on parachuting gear.

You can find QWSTION bags at Bentro Vato and the “3 day travel” luggage is $329. I got it for my boyfriend for Christmas but I think I may just borrow it from him sooner rather than later.

Sunny Shum, Footwear … more …