Unique, Meaningful and Healthy Holiday Travel Gifts for Use at Home and Away: 2022 "It's Travel Time" Edition

 

To say that the last few years have been unique is an understatement. Since the pandemic was declared in March 2020, safety precautions and protocols have become the stuff of everyday life — at home and on the road. With the holiday season upon us, most of us are getting itchy feet to hit the road again. For some, vacationing within the strictures of a public health crisis will be worth it; for others it won’t. LTD comprised this list of some of our favorite gifts for this year that will be helpful both at home and on the road to capture memories, inspire and make life healthier and more meaningful! 

The purpose of our blog is to share with you everything we have learned to make Meaningful and Healthy Travel happen! We only recommend products that we use or would buy for friends! Please CLICK THE PHOTOS BELOW TO LEARN MORE, or BUY or SHARE this post to support our blog and keep it going! THANK YOU! For the first time this year, look for stocking stuffers at the end. 

Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn a commission. In turn, we donate profits to charity.

1.  OOLER by Chili Technologies - This is our number one recommended product because it has been a "sleep changer" for us!

Give the gift of sleep!!!! Our number one recommended product of 2019, 2020 and 2021.  We first encountered Chili Technologies, now known SleepMe, at the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas in 2019!  In a matter of no time we became customers ourselves and can't say enough how much the OOLER and chiliBLANKET have contributed to our well-being and healthy travel! The latest release from SleepMe is Sleepme+! It is the first and only technology that provides you with a dedicated virtual AI sleep expert that continually creates the ideal sleep environment based on your current sleep activity. Plus, you'll receive a daily sleep report that allows you take control of your sleep and health goals.

Interrupted sleep is when our sleep is studded with prolonged periods of waking up throughout the night, usually at least four times over the course of eight hours. This condition can be caused by a sudden shift in routine (for example, a new baby in the house), travel, unexpected noises (such as a party at your neighbor’s house or a partner’s snoring), bathroom trips, menopause or other health issues or racing thoughts.  Temperature affects your baseline sleep quality and regulating temperature can help you phase shift your sleep for travel and help prevent jet lag. And do you know what we love best about the company? They stand by their product and you get a 30 day money-back sleep trial. See our full review of OOLER by clicking here! 

No Code is needed to receive 25% off on Black Friday weekend.

2.  Vuzix Smart Swim

Another product we saw at the Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show in 2020 and used throughout 2020 and 2021!  We're sure you know that LTD loves swimming for health and this is one of the most innovative products we have ever used!  The Vuzix Smart Swim is a heads-up display for swimmers, providing workout status and information about their swim. This enables users to continue uninterrupted and reach optimum performance. Used for open water and lap (pool) training.  Luxury Travel Doc reviewer, Glenn Paige says, "Vuzix is one of the most unique swim training devices I have ever used. Besides allowing you to view and analyze your swim data real-time, it allows for open water navigation guidance, entertainment and training viewing options during your workouts. Try it to believe it!"

3.  Our Favorite Smart Watch for the Active Traveler just got better with the convenience of making and taking phone calls from your wrist!

The Garmin Venu has an enormous number of features, a long-lasting battery and an attractive build. The original round version was introduced in 2019 with an amazing response from users and in 2020 Garmin introduced a less expensive square version that has all of the same features at a fraction of the price. But in late 2021, Garmin made the Venu even better when it introduced the Venu 2 Plus. For serious outdoor travel or fitness enthusiasts, it's hard to beat. The GPS features of this watch are unrivaled and work all over the world. The beautiful AMOLED display brings Venu 2 Plus to life, even under bright sunlight. A built-in microphone and speaker make it easy to take calls on the go when connected to your compatible smartphone. And from the durable glass to the sleek stainless steel bezel and comfortable silicone band,

this smartwatch is ready for anything. This is a high-performance timepiece that meets big challenges and there is even a version without voice control that fits smaller wrists. During the pandemic many Venu users are happy to have their pulse oximetry tracked on their wrist! There is a white version too. Don't like the band color? There are plenty of replacement bands available. 

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Is The Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Bag Is the Perfect Tote Bag? NO!!!

Inspired by the Japanese art of origami, this folding tote bag has been one of Longchamp's most popular designs for nearly 30 years. While the original Le Pliage bag was always popular, the updated version with an expanding design is perfect for those looking for a little extra storage.

Made from lightweight yet durable nylon with leather accents, the Le Pliage Expandable Tote is an easy choice for travel, running errands around town or heading for a day at the office.

A zippered inset lets you expand the bag in a flash for added storage, and when it's not in use it conveniently folds up to roughly the size of a paperback book.

This tote bag has earned an impressive reputation among Nordstrom shoppers, who have rated it a near-perfect 4.8 stars. Hundreds of shoppers have raved about its versatile expanding insert, as well as it's space-saving design.

OK here is my disclaimer...My name is Michelle, but I do not speak French. Please excuse my pronunciations but I gave saying the French words my best shot in the video below!

Get Le Pliage Expandable Tote at Nordstrom here 👍 

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Self Defense for Runners: Tips and Products to Keep You Safe

We are heartbroken by the tragic death of Memphis jogger Eliza Fletcher but being runners ourselves and knowing many friends that do- please be safe! Walking, running, whatever- we must learn to protect and defend ourselves. We urge you to run with a buddy, run in public and well-lit places, carry pepper spray, or other self-defense items and take a self-defense class. Not just a one time class, but one where you continuously practice the situations so they become engrained in your muscle memory. 

Many of us are not diligent about carrying self-defense items or practicing scenarios that could save our lives. Something so simple as being vocal when in a situation could make a huge difference!! 

Some may consider carrying self-defense items an annoyance for something as simple as running, but just remember Eliza when you feel that way. Understanding self defense for runners is key to staying safe and protected on a run. Whether you run alone or with a group, in a city or in the country, attacks on unsuspecting runners are unfortunately becoming all too common.

Running self defense can be comprised of multiple different tactics: strategically planning your route, knowledge of how to fight back, and carrying self-defense products that can help scare or fight off an attacker.

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Our Favorite Pill Box for Carrying Medications for Travel Vacation and TSA Tips

Hey everyone how’s it going?!  We’re so happy you’re joining us today!  Before we get started we wanted to remind you that all proceeds from our channel go to charity.  Please help GIVE by visiting our sponsors, subscribing to our channel, commenting or just giving us a thumbs up.  We really appreciate your support!  We have loads more videos about meaningful locations around the world, great travel hacks and useful travel gear, like what we’re gonna show you today.  

Are you trying to find the best pill box for travel? Overwhelmed by all the options? The following is a comprehensive guide to our favorite pill box for travel. 

The sheer number of options out there makes going through thousands of reviews extremely frustrating. Look over the reviews of what may appeal to you, then make an informed purchasing decision. Personally we love versatility and something that fits our particular meds. This is most important for us, and after all the pill boxes we have gone through to find the perfect one, we have donated the others to a local charity so that others can find inexpensive options. The pillbox graveyard of our misses is no more and they are going to good use! 

First some important information. We get asked all the time: "What do I do with my medications when I travel to a foreign country? Do I need the prescription bottles? What if I need more medication if I am delayed? Can I travel with my medication?" Our advice is that the CDC has a great traveler’s health page to point you in the right direction of most questions. It is a great resource and we always start there. 

Here are a few tips that you might find helpful from the TSA:

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Reported this year – tragic loss of life due to hotel carbon monoxide poisoning. We bought a new safety device every traveler should consider.

Reported this year – tragic loss of life due to hotel carbon monoxide poisoning. We have a new safety device every traveler should consider. 

We've been reading these tragic stories about people who've died on vacation or traveling away from home for work in a hotel room because the hotel didn't have its act together, had a carbon monoxide leak and that's a silent killer. Recently, an American man was found dead inside a room at a popular Bahamas resort where another three tourists tragically died in their rooms from carbon monoxide poisoning earlier this year.

Other people fortunately survived the carbon monoxide poisoning at that hotel. And the weird thing is that there were people who had gone to the doctor or the hospital the day before complaining of symptoms that carbon monoxide symptoms manifest like so many other things that people don't even know, medical professionals don't automatically think, oh, wow, wonder, could this be carbon monoxide poisoning? There are enough symptoms that are similar to other illnesses that they could miss something that's more relevant in most people's cases. Either way it's something that is preventable. 

From the CDC: 

What is Carbon Monoxide?

Carbon monoxide, or “CO,” is an odorless, colorless gas that can kill you.

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Unique, Meaningful and Healthy Father's Day Travel Gifts for Home and Away: 2022 "It's Travel Time" Edition

This "It's Travel Time" Father's Day, spoil your Favorite Dad who loves to travel with traditional gifts, but kicked up a notch.  Use LTD's 2022 Father's Day Gift ideas to keep him healthy, safe, worry-free and traveling in style as the Globe reopens!  Click on the picture to learn more or buy!

Are you a Son, Daughter, Wife or friend looking for a gift for you favorite Dad or Husband?  We’ve got you covered for travelers of all types with our favorite things, perfect for all budgets! Maybe even the family pet needs to find something for its traveling Daddy!  

❤️❤️There is still time to order for Father's Day. Remember, all proceeds from our links go to charity like the Navy SEAL Foundation that helps GOLD STAR FATHERS who have lost their Military Sons and Daughters and for whom Father's Day is not the same. Please SHARE this post to help...❤️❤️

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Pendry Spa Park City Canyons Review, Guide, & How to Book in 2023 in Utah near Deer Valley

We have frequented hotel spas around the world, places like the Four Seasons in Chicago, Mandarin Oriental in Las Vegas and Boston, Waldorf Astoria in Shanghai, Ritz Carlton Ranch Mirage and the Langham Hotel in London, just to name a few.  Montage International is a newer brand that stands out. Featuring a distinctive collection of hospitality brands, Montage International encompasses the ultra-luxury brand Montage Hotels & Resorts, the new luxury hospitality brand, Pendry Hotels, Montage Residences, and Pendry Residences. Pendry Hotels is a collection of new luxury hotels for today’s world traveler located in existing destinations including: Pendry San Diego, Sagamore Pendry Baltimore and Pendry West Hollywood, with Pendry Manhattan West and Pendry Park City opened in early 2022 and Pendry Natirar opening in 2022. While staying at a private residence in Park City, Utah, we were pleased to try the newest hotel spa in this ski Mecca and get some much needed TLC for our bodies after a long ski week. 

Pendry Park City, the brand's first year-round mountain resort located in the heart of Canyons Village at Park City Mountain and opened in January of 2022. It is always a pleasure to experience brand new facilities, which we hope will have the newest amenities and clean crisp facilities. We spent a few evenings at the Pendry Park City, enjoying it's apres ski offerings, rooftop views, cocktails and Kita, its Japanese-inspired upscale restaurant. 

From the greetings received from the Valet, to the Spa Pendry reception and technicians...service and amenities are wonderful but the facility is small and not very warm, considering it's mountain location. Overall our experience was excellent, but we expected more. 

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Conrad Las Vegas Resorts World Hotel Review, Guide, & How to Book in 2023 on the Strip

 

The Conrad at Resorts World in Las Vegas is a new offering from Hilton's boutique luxury line. It reopened in August 2021 after a full renovation and rebrand of the property formerly known as The Stardust.

Now the site is three hotels in one: Hilton, Conrad and Crockfords (the only British Crockfords in the USA). The property had been the site of the Stardust Resort and Casino until 2007, when Boyd Gaming demolished the resort to develop its Echelon Place project. Boyd halted construction in 2008 due to poor economic conditions and sold the property to Genting Group in March 2013.  Plans slowly came and went. Construction stalled multiple times. For a while, the parking garage just stood there without much happening. An idea for a panda exhibit was floated (there isn't one). Between all the stops and starts, Resorts World threatened to be another failed project in a post-recession Las Vegas like the Fountain Blue eyesore nearby.  After so much uncertainty, the project finally gathered momentum and even a COVID pandemic couldn't slow it down.  We were lucky enough to enjoy this combination hotel, theatre, event space and of course, casino recently, and understand the potential for this location to add sparkle to the north end of the Las Vegas strip. 

Check the reviews, prices and make a reservation at TripAdvisor by clicking here!

1. Location

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The Best Mothers Day Gifts For Moms Who Plan to Travel in 2022

Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to splurge on your mom, or any loved one who is a mom, and give her something extra special!

❤️❤️There is still time to order for Mother's Day. Remember, all proceeds from our links are donated to charity. Please SHARE this post to help...❤️❤️

Let's face it - she may not have the time or knowledge to look for great traveling items herself.  Fortunately, LTD can give you some outstanding selections for all budgets that will certainly put a smile on her face!!  Our guide includes items that are fashionable, healthy, useful and practical for the traveling female.  Click on the product photo if you wish to learn more!

1.  One of Our Favorite Travel Pants are Unitop Women's Quick Dry Cargo Hiking Pants with Drawstring  

With a high level of breathability and flexibility, unitop’s Quick Dry Hiking Collection are designed for daily cragged adventures. They are always actively seeking soft fabric that is both lightweight and suitable, but with durable elements to adapt to a range of terrain, so the key element of these pant’s versatility is functional motion which results in a relaxed aesthetic and dynamic movement. They can be worn everyday too, providing a balance of outdoor activities and casual life when she needs versatility.

2. The MIZOO 140db Emergency Personal Alarm Keychain is perfect for Self Defense.  

While some may use their car key alarm as a safety when walking to your car, what do you do when you're traveling or away from your car?  This compact alarm has a flashlight and a loud Alarm.  Test it outside because it is LOUD.  

3. Wide Brim Paper Straw Fedora 

With an adjustable drawstring, this positively fun  hat won't fly off when the beach breeze hits. Multiple colors are available.

4. For the Sofa, Car or Plane Snuggler!

If she loves to curl up with a good blanket, let her relax more with cozy feet. An ordinary throw blanket usually just doesn't do to keep her toes warm, and that's why PediPocket developed their patented throw blanket with a pocket for feet!  She'll say, "Why didn't I think of that?"

We are proud to recommend two books this year, each from REMARKABLE mothers! Please be sure to check out numbers 5 and 6!

5. The Extraordinary UnOrdinary You by Simone Steinbach Knego 

"Follow Your Own Path. Discover Your Own Journey." These inspirational words couldn't ring truer in life and Simone is a perfect example. She realized that what you do every day matters and inspires others. By sharing her story, she motivates and encourages all of us—and in doing so, maybe change the world.  As a wife, mother to six children (and three dogs - since publication FOUR dogs), and a serial entrepreneur, she splits her time between her family, businesses, and personal growth.  Simone takes you inside her unique journey and the extraordinary moments which have shaped her life and defined her mission. Sharing the lessons she’s learned from life’s ups, downs, and laugh-out-loud moments, you’ll be inspired to discover your own journey, and to go out into the world and be the good. The world is waiting for the Extraordinary UnOrdinary You, and you already have everything you need to get started, simply by being you.

6.  Everything But the Toast: Anti-Inflammatory Recipes by Haley Broyhill

After studying Holistic Nutrition at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, the cutting-edge leader in holistic nutrition education, Haley created this Anti-Inflammatory recipe book that is designed to benefit anyone, but especially those with risk of auto-immune diseases, hormonal imbalances, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and more.  She has learned that Inflammation can be very sneaky in our lives, and it has been inappropriately vilified. She created her book to educate people about what role inflammation can commonly play in our bodies. It explains what the most common symptoms are, why they happen, and how to heal through dietary holistic and lifestyle choices. Readers will discover the deleterious roles that gluten & other inflammatory foods play in our bodies, and how our environment can make a drastic impact in our overall health. Haley says, "I grew up in a small town where living holistically was not common. The incentive for writing my book came from my love for my family and hometown. My hope is to help the people that suffer from limited resources learn how wholesome choices can change their lives."

7.  MORE MEANINGFUL THAN A CARD! I Love You Mom: And Here's Why

After all she's done, your mom deserves an entire book spelling out all of the ways she shown her love to you over the years. Take a night to fill this book with all of the memories, inside jokes, and characteristics that the two of you share. Put photos of your travels together or places you want to see with her!

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Pendry San Diego Hotel Review, Guide, & How to Book in 2023 in the Gaslamp Quarter

During the pandemic, domestic travel became popular but the hospitality industry has been slow to get back in gear in terms of service.  How many of you have stayed at establishments where dining, housekeeping, concierge and more have not lived up to the standards you experienced prior to 2020? Some luxury brands have capitalized on the slower return of many companies and to Luxury Travel Docs, the difference between brands has been very clear in 2021. Montage International is a brand that stands out. Featuring a distinctive collection of hospitality brands, Montage International encompasses the ultra-luxury brand Montage Hotels & Resorts, the new luxury hospitality brand, Pendry Hotels, Montage Residences, and Pendry Residences.  Opening in 2016, the Pendry San Diego is convenient, comfortable and tasteful, everything we wanted for a recent visit to one of our favorite cities in California. 

The brand is new but on the move! Founded in 2015, Pendry Hotels is a collection of new luxury hotels for today’s world traveler located in existing destinations including: Pendry San Diego, Sagamore Pendry Baltimore and Pendry West Hollywood, with Pendry Manhattan West and Pendry Park City opened in early 2022 and Pendry Natirar opening in 2022.

                 

We've stayed at many boutique hotels over the years, some of which have bore witness to absolutely amazing events, like the Southern Hotel in Covington, Louisiana, and Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, and the Pendry San Diego is the latest to add to our list.  This laid-back luxurious hotel is one of our favorite picks when it comes to downtown San Diego hotels. It is located in a prime spot at the southern tip of the Gaslamp Quarter, which puts you a short walk from a Padres game, the San Diego Convention Center, vibrant nightlife, and some of the city's best restaurants.

Check Reviews for the Pendry San Diego, rates, and book at TripAdvisor by clicking here!

1. Location

The Pendry San Diego is centrally located in Gaslamp quarter of San Diego near the San Diego Convention Center and the Embarcadero. Beloved attractions, like the Midway and Maritime museums, and Seaport Village are within walking distance. Petco Park, home to the San Diego Giants of the MLB National League can be seen from your hotel window. After dark, the city transforms into a sophisticated playground for adults. With an endless variety of posh night clubs, music venues and rooftop bars, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable night out after a day of meetings or exploring. The Pendry is an easy Uber from San Diego International Airport and will cost about $15. 

2. Check-in

We were greeted promptly and checked in without difficulty from very accommodating employees wearing masks appropriately. The front desk was compliant with COVID-19 policies, unlike other hotels we have stayed at since the pandemic started. We were recognized as iPrefer elite members and as booking through American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts immediately.  The staff member instructed us about the amenities and upgrades we received and answered all of our questions about the immediate area for site seeing and dining.  It was warm in San Antonio and complimentary water was provided to us on arrival as well as anytime required during our stay. 

The charm and design of The Pendry is evident immediately upon arrival and deserves an entire section of this article (Read on)!

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