Everything about South America has always sounded appealing to me. Though I've never been, I've always imagined jam-packed adventure days with enough beautiful beaches to force you to still make time for the R&R we all need. So when I stumbled upon this, I couldn't help but be intrigued over the resort-life in a beautiful location and elaborate options. It's a 2 for 1 deal for those who strive to have their vacation be nothing short of a few days in the lap of luxury so I had to share. Bon Voyage!
Visitors to Belize can now stay in two of the recently awarded top ten resorts in Central and South America as part of an all-inclusive, affordable rainforest to reef holiday package.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek has recently been selected as one of the top ten resorts for the entire Central and South American region, according to this month's Travel+Leisure Magazine, which features their annual "Best resorts in the World" awards list for 2011.
And the good news for travellers to Belize is that Chaa Creek's partner in an all-inclusive Rainforest to Reef package, Victoria House on Ambergris Caye, was also named as one of the top ten by the magazine and its website. This means that guests booking the Los Dos Cayos Belize package will be staying in two resorts judged to be not only the best in Belize, but for the entire region.
Chaa Creek and Victoria House were the only two Belizean resorts to receive the distinction, with the other eight winners coming from locales as far flung as Easter Island and Argentina.
Both award-winners are part of Chaa Creek's Los Dos Cayos Belize Vacation package, an all-inclusive, Rainforest to Reef holiday deal that gives guests the opportunity to explore Belize's tropical rainforest , Maya temples and ancient city sites and then enjoy a Caribbean beach holiday on beautiful Ambergris Caye at the stunning world heritage-listed Belize Barrier Reef.
Chaa Creek owner Lucy Fleming said the awards confirm that Chaa Creek and Victoria House are a perfect match. "We've always recommended Victoria House to our guests who are looking for a Caribbean island and reef experience. It's a beautiful resort that shares our views on quiet luxury and sustainable tourism. We've established a very good relationship over the years, so it's great to see them recognised along with us.
"A Travel+Leisure recommendation is always an honour, but to be recognised as one of the top ten in the entire Central and South American region, and then to see our Los Dos Cayos partner on the same exclusive list - well, to say we were delighted is an understatement," she said.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek, Belize's Hotel of the Year 2011, is situated within a 365 private nature reserve and offers an unparalleled range of activities and amenities, including beautiful thatch roofed cottage accommodation, luxury suites, excellent dining, Hilltop spa, butterfly farm, miles of beautiful rainforest trails and easy access to the region's many Maya temples and ancient city sites.
Victoria House is Ambergris Caye's premier resort featuring stunning beach and barrier reef views, diving, snorkelling, fishing and a range of activities as well as fine dining and Caribbean style luxurious relaxation. Both resorts have received numerous awards from other travel industry insiders such as Conde Nast, Trip Advisor, Andrew Harper and others.
"The Los Dos Cayos Belize Vacation really is something special," Ms Fleming said, "We wanted to provide a package that combines the best of Belize, from our gorgeous rainforest to the Caribbean and barrier reef, and make it completely hassle free and affordable. And now, with Travel+Leisure's recommendation, guests will have no doubt that they're experiencing Belize with the best of the best, not only here, but in all of Central and South America. And that's something we're proud of."
Get you resort wear for your tropical vacation by shopping at Avenue Verde
Monday, August 1, 2011
5 Phases of Vacation
Vacation, phase one.
You finish your shift or meet your deadline. Turn off the computer or put away your tools. Shuck off your uniform or just the metaphorical hair shirt of your routine obligations.
When the phone trills, you ignore it, even if it's the boss. Whatever needs doing can be done when you get back.
Actually, even though you have made it clear to your superiors that you are ON VACATION, you return the call because the first phase of vacation is disbelief.
Yes, you've felt the chains of duty go slack, but you can't yet fathom that you're free. And you are not.
You have to plow through pre-vacation chores before you can escape. Pay your bills. Take out the garbage. Somehow get rid of the milk. Find someone to take care of your plants or pets. Cancel the newspaper.
You never remember to cancel the newspaper.
Vacation, phase two.
You reach your destination. You've switched into comfortable clothes, meaning nothing pinches. You're flush with books, brochures, maps and plans for all the fun you're about to have.
And you will have it, just as soon as you check your email, your voice mail, your Facebook page and Twitter account. Just once. Or twice. Just in case there's something that demands an answer now.
"Stop it," says a voice, which may belong to a fellow traveler or merely to your inner guide. "It's not vacation if you stay tethered to bad habits."
Somewhere in this phase — call it transition — a funny thing occurs. You release your grip. Slightly, anyway. You go hours at a stretch without checking your techno-gadgets.
And you feel a curious sensation. Are these your lungs? Is this what they call breathing? Do you really spend your average days without an exhale?
Vacation, phase three.
What happened to your shoulders? They feel oddly good down there, so far from your ears. You sleep.
In this third phase of vacation, you see all the halos in the universe. People aren't so bad. You're OK too. And it hits you with a clarity reserved for the redeemed: Yes. Yes. You will always live like this. You will move here, to this place where your shoulders are relaxed and you say hello to strangers, where portions of yourself usually buried in your daily fears and habits are again revealed.
Back in phase two of vacation, you could see your workaday life retreat in the rearview mirror. But here in phase three? Even the mirror vanishes. You don't look back. Or forward. That "be here now" thing finally makes sense. You eat well, exercise, read at leisure, connect with people you love and parts of yourself you've put on hold.
The revelation grows louder, clearer. You must get rid of your home and settle here, forever.
This phase is called fantasy.
Vacation, phase four.
What time is your return flight tomorrow? Or what time do you need to hit the road to miss the traffic? You'd better check your email and the weather report.
Someone asks, "So when exactly are you leaving?" and once the question has been asked, you're halfway to gone. Why does vacation always vanish like a dream and seem as short?
This phase is called regret.
Vacation, phase five.
Disbelief. Transition. Fantasy. Regret. Those are behind you now. In front of you are a crammed mailbox, a pile of unread newspapers, your favorite coffee cup, the peace of your own bed.
You suddenly relax in a way you never quite can in the incessant novelty of vacation. This phase is called home.
For resort wear perfect for your vacation shop Avenue Verde
Article by Mary Schmich
You finish your shift or meet your deadline. Turn off the computer or put away your tools. Shuck off your uniform or just the metaphorical hair shirt of your routine obligations.
When the phone trills, you ignore it, even if it's the boss. Whatever needs doing can be done when you get back.
Actually, even though you have made it clear to your superiors that you are ON VACATION, you return the call because the first phase of vacation is disbelief.
Yes, you've felt the chains of duty go slack, but you can't yet fathom that you're free. And you are not.
You have to plow through pre-vacation chores before you can escape. Pay your bills. Take out the garbage. Somehow get rid of the milk. Find someone to take care of your plants or pets. Cancel the newspaper.
You never remember to cancel the newspaper.
Vacation, phase two.
You reach your destination. You've switched into comfortable clothes, meaning nothing pinches. You're flush with books, brochures, maps and plans for all the fun you're about to have.
And you will have it, just as soon as you check your email, your voice mail, your Facebook page and Twitter account. Just once. Or twice. Just in case there's something that demands an answer now.
"Stop it," says a voice, which may belong to a fellow traveler or merely to your inner guide. "It's not vacation if you stay tethered to bad habits."
Somewhere in this phase — call it transition — a funny thing occurs. You release your grip. Slightly, anyway. You go hours at a stretch without checking your techno-gadgets.
And you feel a curious sensation. Are these your lungs? Is this what they call breathing? Do you really spend your average days without an exhale?
Vacation, phase three.
What happened to your shoulders? They feel oddly good down there, so far from your ears. You sleep.
In this third phase of vacation, you see all the halos in the universe. People aren't so bad. You're OK too. And it hits you with a clarity reserved for the redeemed: Yes. Yes. You will always live like this. You will move here, to this place where your shoulders are relaxed and you say hello to strangers, where portions of yourself usually buried in your daily fears and habits are again revealed.
Back in phase two of vacation, you could see your workaday life retreat in the rearview mirror. But here in phase three? Even the mirror vanishes. You don't look back. Or forward. That "be here now" thing finally makes sense. You eat well, exercise, read at leisure, connect with people you love and parts of yourself you've put on hold.
The revelation grows louder, clearer. You must get rid of your home and settle here, forever.
This phase is called fantasy.
Vacation, phase four.
What time is your return flight tomorrow? Or what time do you need to hit the road to miss the traffic? You'd better check your email and the weather report.
Someone asks, "So when exactly are you leaving?" and once the question has been asked, you're halfway to gone. Why does vacation always vanish like a dream and seem as short?
This phase is called regret.
Vacation, phase five.
Disbelief. Transition. Fantasy. Regret. Those are behind you now. In front of you are a crammed mailbox, a pile of unread newspapers, your favorite coffee cup, the peace of your own bed.
You suddenly relax in a way you never quite can in the incessant novelty of vacation. This phase is called home.
For resort wear perfect for your vacation shop Avenue Verde
Article by Mary Schmich
What to Eat, Wear, and Do on Your Next Long Flight
Whether you're jet-setting out of town to beat the heat or searching for it, Summer vacation can mean a few dehydrating, monotonous, or stressful hours on an airplane before you reach your rest and relaxation destination.
If you're gearing up for a long flight, make sure you're prepared so you can make those hours as healthy as they can be. Before you go on vacation, read these tips to make sure you have a healthy and safe flight.
Germ fighter. The air in there may not be as dangerously full of germs as you may think — in fact, airplane air is often filtered more often than the air in most office buildings — but that doesn't mean you're not more susceptible to diseases when you're up in the sky. While the coughs and sneezes of your fellow passengers may not make you ill, the fast turnaround times between flights means that certain areas on planes don't regularly get disinfected like they should. Carry a bottle of hand sanitizer for a quick wipe down of your area when you first sit down.
Drink up. Speaking of what you're breathing up there, the air in planes lacks almost any humidity, which can lead to dry nose, throats, and mouths. That in turn can leave your defenses down. To combat dehydration, bring on the drinks — but not the sugary or alcoholic kind. Skip the soda and cocktails and drink as much water as possible instead.
Comfort first. The most comfortable clothes work both for getting on the plane as well as staying healthy. While you want shoes that you can slip on and off while in the security line, cold air can make for an uncomfortable plane ride for your toes. But lacing up in too restrictive footwear can also be uncomfortable if you experience swelling. Have a pair of travel-friendly socks in your carry-on so you can sport them while you're in flight. Your clothes should be easy to wear for an extended time too; wear comfortable layers in case you get too hot or too cold, and avoid extra zippers or buttons, which can impede you while you try to find a comfortable position.
Snack attack. Bringing your own healthy meals is easier to do when you're flying domestically, but when you are in for an overseas flight, you may be at the mercy of the galley kitchen's offerings. If you're taking an overnight international flight, try eating before your plane takes off and bringing healthy snacks so you don't have to eat the heavy dinner offerings. Or check out these airlines with the healthiest on-board fare.
On the move. Even if you're not on a 20-hour flight to an exotic locale, it helps to get up and move to reduce your risk of developing blood clots in the legs. Try getting up every few hours, and do a few of these stretching exercises (some discreet and some not as much!) in your chair to keep your circulation going.
For clothing for your relaxing destination shop Avenue Verde
Article by Leta Shy
Tips to prepare your car for summer travel
Getting ready for a summer road trip also means getting your vehicle ready for the trip. In addition to maps and route planning, you need to spend some time checking the car that will take you to your destination. The best plans may not end up quite as fun if you break down during your travel.
Fluid levels: Check all of the fluid levels in your car. If the oil has not been changed recently it might be a good time for this service. Another critical fluid level is the radiator to prevent overheating while you travel. Your owner’s manual should give you detailed instructions on the location of the fluids that you need to check. If you are not comfortable with this step, most auto shops will perform the service for a minimum fee. Do not forget your washer fluid, and be sure to check the quality of your wiper blades.
General items that may require service: If your car’s brakes are already making noise, you should have them inspected before heading out for summer travel. Check your air filter and replace it if necessary. This can be especially important if you plan to travel to any desert or beach areas. The potential for sand in the air will not help an already clogged air filter. Test your air-conditioning before heading off on your trip. If your system is not producing enough cold air, a simple recharge may be all you need.
It is also a good idea to check that your headlights, taillights, turn signals and flashers are all operational. Make space for a small emergency kit in the trunk of your car. Your kit should contain one or two road flares, a quart of oil and a half-gallon of clean water. You may also want to add a set of screwdrivers and a small medical kit. If you have a membership with an auto club for emergency services, make sure that you carry a card with their phone number and your account number.
Once your car is ready, you will only need to pack the items you need for your summer travel. Carry some drinking water and snacks for yourself and any passengers. While you can not prevent all vehicle breakdowns, a few simple steps should keep you safe along the way.
For the perfect vacation wardrobe shop Avenue Verde
By: B. Leslie Baird for the Washington Post
Fluid levels: Check all of the fluid levels in your car. If the oil has not been changed recently it might be a good time for this service. Another critical fluid level is the radiator to prevent overheating while you travel. Your owner’s manual should give you detailed instructions on the location of the fluids that you need to check. If you are not comfortable with this step, most auto shops will perform the service for a minimum fee. Do not forget your washer fluid, and be sure to check the quality of your wiper blades.
General items that may require service: If your car’s brakes are already making noise, you should have them inspected before heading out for summer travel. Check your air filter and replace it if necessary. This can be especially important if you plan to travel to any desert or beach areas. The potential for sand in the air will not help an already clogged air filter. Test your air-conditioning before heading off on your trip. If your system is not producing enough cold air, a simple recharge may be all you need.
It is also a good idea to check that your headlights, taillights, turn signals and flashers are all operational. Make space for a small emergency kit in the trunk of your car. Your kit should contain one or two road flares, a quart of oil and a half-gallon of clean water. You may also want to add a set of screwdrivers and a small medical kit. If you have a membership with an auto club for emergency services, make sure that you carry a card with their phone number and your account number.
Once your car is ready, you will only need to pack the items you need for your summer travel. Carry some drinking water and snacks for yourself and any passengers. While you can not prevent all vehicle breakdowns, a few simple steps should keep you safe along the way.
For the perfect vacation wardrobe shop Avenue Verde
By: B. Leslie Baird for the Washington Post
Oily Skin Solutions: Sweatproof Your Face for Summer
A fringe benefit of breaking a sweat at the gym? Besides cooling and detoxifying the body, sweat cleanses pores of dirt, dead skin cells, and excess oil. (Just be sure that a towel is within arm’s reach; allowing these released toxins to sit on your face too long can result in reclogging and breakouts.) But what happens when your sweaty brow is due to hot weather—and not a hot workout? Here, five ways to keep shine in check.
1. Maintain a Balanced Complexion
It’s only natural that you want to splash your face with cool water and cleanser more often during summer. But too much suds and H20 can strip skin of moisture and cause sebaceous glands to work overtime, resulting in a rebound effect (read shinier, oilier skin). Stick to deep cleansing twice daily and for midday touch-ups use a gentle toner like Boscia Clear Complexion Tonic or pre-moistened facial wipes.
Other skin care don’ts that can cause irritation and imbalance: using overly intense acne treatments and exfoliating improperly. “It’s important not to use products aimed at teenage acne,” dermatologist Howard Murad, MD, told ELLE's Johanna Cox for her article on how to get clear skin. “Those products target violent hormonal acne, which is a very different condition from what women in their twenties through forties have. What you need are calming agents with anti-inflammatory ingredients.” A great blemish-buster to try: Votre Vu Au Revoir! Trouble Spot Treatment. Disinfecting, healing, and anti-inflammatory, the powdery mixture visibly reduces pimples overnight.
In terms of exfoliating, dermatologist Jeanine Downie, MD, recommends using a glycolic cleanser daily and doing mechanical exfoliation around four times a week (sensitive skin types can do less often; oilier skin types can do more often). “To avoid irritation, look for exfoliators that contain spherical, pliable microbeads versus grains with rough, scratchy edges,” she says.
2. Switch to a Lighter Moisturizer
The thick, emollient face cream you use during winter isn’t necessary for summer since the outside elements aren't as harsh and drying. Though a more nourishing antiaging formula is fair game for overnight—it can enhance the skin cell regeneration and collagen production that naturally occur during REM sleep—your daytime lotion should be light. After applying moisturizer in the morning, makeup artist Angela Levin recommends laying a tissue flat on your face and gently tapping (“the tissue will pick up any excess moisture”).
3. Use a Non-Drying Foundation Primer
To make skin stay smoother and shine-free longer, Levin says to apply a primer prior to foundation. The ideal primer should be oil-free and oil-absorbing yet nourishing and non-drying. Ones to try: Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Light, Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation Primer, and Cargo Blu Ray High Definition Mattifier.
4. Wear the Right Makeup
As with primers, an oil-free yet non-drying formula is key when choosing the perfect foundation. Those with oily skin might try CoverGirl Clean Oil Control Makeup, which contains oil absorbers and conditioning ingredients. Combination and sensitive skin types can dab on Revlon PhotoReady Makeup which in addition to being oil-free also contains SPF 20. For the best sweat-proof eye makeup, invest in a long-wearing cream eye shadow and water-resistant eyeliner.
5. Carry Blotting Papers
If in spite of your best efforts, oil and sweat still seep through your flawless finish, always have a pack of blotting papers tucked away in your purse. Shiseido Pureness Oil-Control Blotting Paper contains a touch of powder, while Sephora and Boscia versions come powder-free.
For women's resort wear shop Avenue Verde
By: Emily Hebert for Elle
Makeup With Sun Protection
Makeup basics that pack high SPFs keep you protected from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays
The promise: Foundations, primers, and powders now pack the high SPFs (think 15-plus) for filtering out burning UVB rays, plus protection from skin-damaging UVA. Some even include a UVA rating developed in Japan: You'll see a PA+, PA++, or PA+++ (to indicate the highest level of UVA protection).
The reality: Because the FDA regulates sun-protection claims, dermatologists are more enthusiastic about the efficacy of SPF cosmetics than of anti-aging makeup. So the number on the label truly reflects the level of UVB filters you'll get. To bolster UVA protection (the rays that are mostly responsible for skin cancers and skin aging), cosmetics often include the minerals zinc and titanium. They form a shield on the skin's surface, diffusing UV light before it can penetrate and damage your cells, Brandith Irwin, M.D., a Seattle dermatologist and author of The Surgery-Free Makeover, says. You'll get even better coverage if your makeup contains both. Try Revlon Age Defying Spa Foundation SPF 18 ($14, drugstores) and Prescriptives All Skins Mineral Makeup SPF 15 ($32.50, department stores). Or choose makeup with SPF 30 or up, plus zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Try Jane Be Pure Mineral Skin Perfecting Foundation SPF 30 ($5.49, drugstores) and Shiseido Sun Protection Liquid Foundation SPF 42 PA+++ ($33.50, department stores).
Even the more potent formulas can't replace an SPF day cream. "Relying on makeup alone is like taking a boat intended for lagoon fishing out in the ocean," says Fredric Brandt, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City and Miami. One reason: Most people don't apply enough. You need about half a teaspoon for your face and neck to get the required thickness. Mineral-powder foundation, such as Colorescience Suncanny SPF 20 Foundation Brush ($60, colorescience.com), stays put longer, but priming skin with an SPF-infused facial lotion is still recommended. So why bother with SPF makeup? Sunscreen lotions and sprays alone let some UV light sneak through, and people skimp on application, just as they do with makeup. The best way to stay protected: Double up by layering makeup over a moisturizer containing an SPF of 15 or higher and UVA filters (Mexoryl, Helioplex, or avobenzone). Try Garnier Nutritioniste Ultra-Lift Pro Deep Wrinkle Cream SPF 20 ($17, drugstores) or SkinCeuticals Active UV Defense Sunscreen Cream SPF 15 ($29, skinceuticals.com).
Bottom line: Ultra-protective makeup is a boon for skin. But think of it as the Robin to your sunscreen's Batman — a dynamic duo stronger together than either is alone.
For women's resort wear shop Avenue Verde
By Beth Janes
Photo by: J MUCKLE/STUDIO D
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
How To Prepare Your Home & Family for Vacation
Having detailed check lists keeps Laura Wittmann sane when she's getting ready to leave for vacation. Wittman, a mother of three who calls herself "an addict of all things organizing," writes the "I'm an Organizing Junkie" blog and is the author of Clutter Rehab: 101. She talks with USA TODAY's Janice Lloyd about the smoothest way to get out the door for a well-deserved break.
Q: There are a zillion things to do from shutting down the house to packing everyone's clothes. What is the answer?
A: Mental clutter is bad news. I'd be lost without lists. I even have a notebook for my lists. I use a 5-by-7-inch notebook that has 23 lines per page and I carry it around in my purse or leave it beside the computer. I write down every single task that is taking up space in my head. The trick to this brain dump is listing tasks in detail. For instance, don't write down "'clean out the refrigerator before vacation," but list the foods to use up in the refrigerator and the freezer. The more detailed I am, the less stressful it is. Everything is going so quickly when you're trying to get out the door on vacation. I don't leave anything up to memory.
Q: What is one job you knock off the list far in advance of vacation?
A: We adopted a puppy in December, so I had to break down the details of finding a kennel. I got on the Internet and made a list of kennels. We started interviewing and knocked a couple off the list right away. Then I had to visit kennels. It's a process, and it does take time, so I recommend starting that as early as possible. I started three months out on that task.You don't want to have to worry about your pet.
Q: What kind of lists do you leave for the person checking on your house?
A: I leave a list on the kitchen counter. Again, detail and specific tasks are important. Don't write "go around the house and water plants." I put the small plants in the kitchen so it is easy for someone to water them. I'll put those plants on the list and I'll also note, "There is a big plant in the master bedroom. Water that." And I'll gather the outdoor plants in one place and add: "Water the outdoor plants on the side of the house."
Q: Do you have jobs listed for family members?
A: The whole family is going on vacation so the whole family helps us get ready to go. I'm very specific with tasks. I don't just say, "You need to clean up." I'll say, "You're on toy duty, and all the toys need to be taken inside and put away." The kids are pretty good about it. As long as they know what they're supposed to be doing, it is easy for them to succeed.
Q: How do you prioritize cleaning jobs?
A: Cleaning out the refrigerator is important. The night before we go on vacation I'll have a leftover buffet. I'm a menu planner, so I will have based my weekly menu on food from the freezer because I always worry about the freezer going out when we're away. You do not want to spend a lot of money on food before you go on vacation, anyway, so that saves you a little bit of money to put toward your trip. I don't go around and clean the house before we go. We head out around 6 or 7 in the morning, and there's no time to change sheets and wash them. We have a regular routine for that, anyway.
Q: What else would you tell people to add to their check list?
A: It's important to check with your insurance carrier. Make sure you're following their guidelines while you're on vacation. Some carriers want people to come in several days a week while you're gone, even on two-week vacations. You don't want to find out after something happens that you're not covered. Also, unplug as many small appliances as possible to save electricity.
Q : Is there a list of things to do when you get home?
A: Hah. Not necessarily, but if you followed the list before you went away, one of the last things you did was take out the garbage. No one wants to come home and find garbage in the kitchen.
By Janice Lloyd, USA Today
For comfortable, versatile resort wear shop Avenue Verde
Q: There are a zillion things to do from shutting down the house to packing everyone's clothes. What is the answer?
A: Mental clutter is bad news. I'd be lost without lists. I even have a notebook for my lists. I use a 5-by-7-inch notebook that has 23 lines per page and I carry it around in my purse or leave it beside the computer. I write down every single task that is taking up space in my head. The trick to this brain dump is listing tasks in detail. For instance, don't write down "'clean out the refrigerator before vacation," but list the foods to use up in the refrigerator and the freezer. The more detailed I am, the less stressful it is. Everything is going so quickly when you're trying to get out the door on vacation. I don't leave anything up to memory.
Q: What is one job you knock off the list far in advance of vacation?
A: We adopted a puppy in December, so I had to break down the details of finding a kennel. I got on the Internet and made a list of kennels. We started interviewing and knocked a couple off the list right away. Then I had to visit kennels. It's a process, and it does take time, so I recommend starting that as early as possible. I started three months out on that task.You don't want to have to worry about your pet.
Q: What kind of lists do you leave for the person checking on your house?
A: I leave a list on the kitchen counter. Again, detail and specific tasks are important. Don't write "go around the house and water plants." I put the small plants in the kitchen so it is easy for someone to water them. I'll put those plants on the list and I'll also note, "There is a big plant in the master bedroom. Water that." And I'll gather the outdoor plants in one place and add: "Water the outdoor plants on the side of the house."
Q: Do you have jobs listed for family members?
A: The whole family is going on vacation so the whole family helps us get ready to go. I'm very specific with tasks. I don't just say, "You need to clean up." I'll say, "You're on toy duty, and all the toys need to be taken inside and put away." The kids are pretty good about it. As long as they know what they're supposed to be doing, it is easy for them to succeed.
Q: How do you prioritize cleaning jobs?
A: Cleaning out the refrigerator is important. The night before we go on vacation I'll have a leftover buffet. I'm a menu planner, so I will have based my weekly menu on food from the freezer because I always worry about the freezer going out when we're away. You do not want to spend a lot of money on food before you go on vacation, anyway, so that saves you a little bit of money to put toward your trip. I don't go around and clean the house before we go. We head out around 6 or 7 in the morning, and there's no time to change sheets and wash them. We have a regular routine for that, anyway.
Q: What else would you tell people to add to their check list?
A: It's important to check with your insurance carrier. Make sure you're following their guidelines while you're on vacation. Some carriers want people to come in several days a week while you're gone, even on two-week vacations. You don't want to find out after something happens that you're not covered. Also, unplug as many small appliances as possible to save electricity.
Q : Is there a list of things to do when you get home?
A: Hah. Not necessarily, but if you followed the list before you went away, one of the last things you did was take out the garbage. No one wants to come home and find garbage in the kitchen.
By Janice Lloyd, USA Today
For comfortable, versatile resort wear shop Avenue Verde
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