Travelogger

We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment.

First Aid Essentials

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You never know when emergencies can happen, which is why it is best to be prepared. A first aid kit is the most basic thing everyone must have especially when travelling. You may purchase ready-made kits through the Red Cross Store or you can check your local pharmacies or supermarkets. Kits for specific activities such as camping, boating and hiking are also available.

You may also assemble your own kit to fit your preference. Basic medications, such as antihistamines, analgesics and the likes are helpful items which may come in handy. Emergency numbers as well as insurance information would be useful too. A flashlight with batteries may be considered too. It is important to check your kit prior to every trip to make sure that it is complete or to replenish used items.

Based on the Red Cross recommendations, here is a list of items you should have in your first aid kit:

2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)

25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)

1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)

5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)

5 antiseptic wipe packets

2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)

1 blanket (space blanket)

1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)

1 instant cold compress

2 pair of non-latex gloves

2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)

Scissors

1 roller bandage (3 inches wide)

1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)

5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3 inches)

5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)

Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass)

2 triangular bandages

Tweezers

First aid instruction booklet

 

Image from Marcin Wichar

Halal Travel Destinations

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Halal is an Arabic term which pertains to objects or actions which are permissible to use or take part of according to Islamic Law. The term also refers to food that Muslims can eat. Not many people are familiar with this and Muslim culture in general unless they share the same religion or have experienced life in Muslim countries.

The numbers of Halal conscious consumers are rapidly increasing which is why many of them look for Halal friendly holidays which they can enjoy. Trips like these make them feel at ease, because they do not have to worry about having to deal with situations which are not in line with their faith.  Halal travel destinations are not just exclusive to OIC countries. Some places on the list are not members, but they do have a large population of Muslims, so most of the people are very much aware and respect  Islamic beliefs.

Here is a list of Halal friendly travel destinations all over the world.

Malaysia (OIC Country) is an Asian destination with a variety of cultures, races and cuisines. Muslims will love it here because Halal food is a norm. There is also many things to do and see here, such as sightseeing and shopping.

Indonesia: (OIC country)is another South East Asian country comprised of many islands. It is a tropical paradise with a mix of modern and laid back cultures. There are numerous rainforests, beaches and volcanoes there.

Brunei (OIC country) may be the smallest country on Earth but it they are rich in oil and gas deposits. They have well-preserved rainforest habitats which you can explore or you may visit their coral reefs and shipwrecks too.

Bosnia and Herzegovina (Non OIC country) are considered exotic destinations in Europe which have a large population of Muslim settlers. They have beautiful architecture in Sarajevo, attractive sites in Mostar and breathtaking waterfalls in Martinbrod, including ski destinations in Sutjeska. A trip there would definitely be an adventure.

South Africa (Non OIC country): South Africa offers many awe inspiring natural resources such as waterfalls, canyons, wetlands, mountains and subtropical forests. Taking a safari and going on a trip to their pristine beaches are things you have to do when you visit. Since there are a handful of Muslims here, traveler are sure to find several Halal friendly facilities in the area..

Image from tmechin

Camping Checklist

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Camping is a great way to commune with nature and bond with friends or family. It may require some roughing up so if you are not comfortable with the thought of not having access to a toilet, then camping may not be suitable for you. On the other hand, staying in the wilderness can be a fun adventure. Bonfires and smores are staples during camp fires, children and adults never outgrow this treat.

This type o trip requires you to be ready with all the items you may need, because the nearest store may be miles away. I often stock up on jello or mixed nuts to give me energy especially during treks. Energy bars are great too. Also bring enough water for yourself and make sure you can carry it. Packing just enough is a must because it may slow you down. Unlike other forms of travel, there aren’t any carts or bellboys to assist you along the way.

Here is a list of items you would need on a camping trip. You do not have to bring everything. Instead, assign communal items to others in order to share the responsibility and the weight too.

Toiletries

Many companies send out sample sizes of their products. I throw the stuff I get in a box and save it all up for camping trips.
Toothpaste  
Toothbrushes  
Dental Floss  
Mouthwash or Breath Mints  
Shampoo  
Hair Conditioner  
Metal Mirror For shaving, hair combing, or “What do I look like today?”
Toilet Paper and a Small Shovel Just in case you can’t find a rest room!
Quarters for the Showers  
Hair Combs and/or Brushes  
Hand Soap I find the anti-bacterial soaps very reassuring on camping trips
Sun Screen  
Bug Repellent  
Skin Lotion  
Shaving Accessories Don’t forget the power cord!
Tweezers Someone is always getting a wood or glass sliver.
Aspirin or Tylenol  
Children’s Tylenol Some kid size fever reducer.
Forehead Thermometer  
Finger Nail Clippers or Nail File  
Antiperspirant  
Lip Balm Some come with U.V. protection.
Prescription Medications Get spares of all you can; especially allergy and athsma medications as these conditions an be worsened by changing climate and vegetation.
Basics
Flashlights with Batteries  
Wooden Matches and a Lighter  
Basic Tools Phillips head and slot head screwdrivers, a hammer, and a camp knife are a must. If you know anything about car maintenance add to this basic list.
Fire Extinguisher It may sit in your trunk for years or you might find yourself putting out an engine fire like I did a few years ago.
First Aid Kit  
Sewing Kit Scissors, thread, a few needles and safety pins will do it.
Duct Tape  
Dish Soap Please use an environmentally friendly soap. Especially if camping near water.
Sponge or Dishcloth  
Rope  
Swiss Army Knife Or something comparable
Folding Multi-Purpose Tool  
1 Cup per Camper  
Roll of Trash Bags Great for packing up wet gear, dirty laundry, dirty dishes, and trash.
5 Gallon Buckets Can be used for water, trash cans and they are great to sit on.
Gear
Tent Make sure you have all the stakes, ropes, poles, etc. Most tents come with lousy stakes that bend after the first few uses – I buy ‘industrial strength’ stakes at my local hardware store.
Ground Cloth or Tarp You should always have a two or more tarps to go with your tent.
Tent Carpet A piece of used or remnant carpet, cut to fit your tent floor, makes for a comfortable tent experience.
Sleeping Bags  
Fleece Sleeping Bag Liner Not only does this add warmth to a sleeping bag, it helps keep your sleeping bag clean. it’s easier to wash a bag liner than it is to wash the whole sleeping bag.
Canteen  
Blankets  
Inflatable Cushions For under the sleeping bags.
Pillows Coats work great if you’re in a pinch for space.
Camping Lanterns We use the battery operated kind. They are not as bright as gas lamps, but are much safer with a small child and can be used in the tent without fear.
Camp Stove Make sure to bring fuel.
Propane Grill  
Charcoal and Lighter Fluid  
Long Handle Pick Ax  
Bandanna  
Cooler  
Backpacks Include ones for the kids – Why carry snacks for everyone? Let the kids pack and carry what they want to bring (they might want to bring less stuff next time).
Portable Radio Great for entertainment and severe weather bulletins!
Food Bin
Plastic Dish Pan This keeps stuff from rolling all over in the trunk and comes in handy for dish washing and bathing.
Paper Plates Twice as many as you think you need. Bring plenty, they burn very well for fire starting purposes.
Can Opener  
Cup-O-Noodles  
Granola Bars  
Silverware 2x everyone in your party. Bring some regular silverware and some plastic stuff.
Napkins or Paper Towels  
Toothpicks  
Coffee (Sugar / Cream) The makings for a good cup of coffee. Also, single serving coffee bags or tea bags
Beef Stew  
Corned Beef Hash Great with eggs!
Canned Pie Filling Excellent!
Ravioli Even good cold and kids love it!
Macaroni and Cheese Very soupy but tasty.
Baked Beans  
Soups Pick the stuff your family likes best.
Canned Vegetables Green beans, peas, mushrooms, corn, carrots, etc.
Canned Fruits Pineapple, applesauce, peaches, pears, apricots, etc.
Bread Bring a good loaf of bread.
Cheese Cheddar or mozzarella
Sandwich Meat  
Butter  
Condiments Almost all condiments will keep well – Just make them easy to get to.
Adult Beverages  
Kids Drinks  
Hot Dogs Excellent food.
Box of Cereal Cherrios, Chex’s, any cereal that requires no sugar. Eat this out of a cup. It’s a quick and easy breakfast.
S’more Fixings Marshmallows, Hershey chocolate bars, and graham crackers!
Zip-Lock Storage Bags Really handy if you hate seeing your butter floating around in the bottom of the cooler.
Aluminum Foil  
Spatula  
Cooking Utensils A serving spoon, a pitch fork, a pair of tongs, and a good knife.
Hot Pads  
Clothes Pin  
Frying Pan I use an old cast iron pan.
Car / Glove Box
Car Registration  
Car Insurance Information  
Medical Insurance Bring everyone’s cards; better safe than sorry.
Travelers Check Receipts  
Camera and Film Many cameras take strange batteries – bring a spare!
Cell Phone and Charger Make sure you turn your phone off if you do not have cell service at the campground. Most cell phones will burn through the battery quickly while searching for service. Turn the phone on as you approach a town or city.
Bring a Book If you read, bring something. You never know where you’ll be waiting.
Your Wallet  
Your Drivers License Obvious, but please make sure!
Your AAA Card If you don’t have one, I recommend you get one. Free tows in the U.S.A. are only the beginning. Your policy may say they only tow 7 miles – but that’s not the full truth. AAA will tow you seven miles in town.
Your Checkbook Most self-service campgrounds accept checks.
Your Credit Cards and ATM Cards Yes, I have left my VISA at home accidentally- the only time I have needed it.
Money Don’t bring hundreds please!
Water I use a large container for the bulk of the water and keep a soda bottle with water in reach for drinking in the car or on hikes.
Maps  
Toys Let your kids pick out what they want.
Snacks Good distractions for the little ones.
Towels I use them as seat covers to protect from accidents for easy packing.
Clothing
Good Hat  
Rain Poncho  
Bug Head Net  
Multi-Pocket Vest A great piece of apparel. Keeps all your little items handy.
Sport Sandals  
Long Underwear  
Filp-Flops Great for showering in as well as lake swimming.

 

Checklist courtesy of: http://www.thecampingsource.com/item/camping_list/id/552/category.aspx

 

What to Wear at Sea

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Dress codes are common in most places, but most of us do not expect that it is important while you are at sea. Back in the day, cruise lines were the place to be, so everyone was expected to be at their best, but when the casual trend began most cruise lines have been toning down their dress codes.

Day wear includes T-shirts, polo shirts, shorts, khakis, sundresses for women and sweatshirts or light sweaters for cooler weather. You may expect fancier labeled clothes on luxury lines. Formal wear these days are what we used to consider as semi-formal. In fact, some cruise lines consider sports jackets as dressy. Unless of course it is captain’s cocktail night, for this occasion almost every one prefers to dress up.

When you say dress up, imagine what you would wear for a nice wedding. Men are encouraged to wear dark suits or tuxedos, while women are expected to wear, cocktail dresses, sequined gowns and other fancy attire. For women who dislike dressing up, a simple blouse paired with a skirt or pants with suffice. Most women prefer to keep it simple and accessorize instead. Most cruise lines specify their dress code and list their activities in their brochure and their website.

Some cruise lines have tuxedos for rent if you do not feel like taking one with you. As for the women, they often take their own dresses to fit their taste, liking and match their jewelry and other accessories.

 

Image from ynnil

Travel Beauty Essentials

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Women often use various beauty products, from moisturizers to creams, perfumes and the likes. For this reason, it has always been a challenge to pack for trips. Deciding what to take with you and what to leave at home can be stressful.

All liquids that you take on the plane must be TSA approved, meaning there are certain allowable amounts. For some it must be less than 100ml and the container cannot be larger than 3.4 ounces. Find travel friendly products or those that come in travel sizes.

Make a list of the things you need, from night creams, cleansers, moisturizers, lip treatment and body lotions. One thing I learned when traveling is to take the items you cannot live without, because they may not be available at your destination or they may cost twice as much.

Your destination will determine the products that you will bring –sunscreen for sunny destinations and lotions for dry and cold climate for example. SPF loses its potency over time, so it is best to buy small bottles, so that you have a new one for each trip.

Prepare a re-sealable plastic bag and use it for your toiletries. Throw in some tissue and cleansing wipes too. Opt for products that come in bars or sticks when it comes to soap and deodorants. Nowadays, you can easily get shampoo and lotion bars in specialty shops.

Product samples are also helpful. So do not say no to perfume samples or ask your dermatologist for sample sizes of your skin care regimen. Try to take inexpensive products which you can leave behind to make space for new finds during your trip.

 

Image from javajoba