How to Pack for a European Fall City Break

Touring through European cities means seeing many exciting places, learning a lot of history, swimming, and of course, taking a lot of pictures. If this is your first time traveling there, here is a helpful guide of the essential things you will need.

Shoes

First, let’s talk about shoes since they take up so much space. You have probably made different outfits in your head and can’t wait to wear them, but if they include more than two pairs of shoes, forget about it. All you need are versatile shoes like, white sneakers that will go with any outfit and occasion, or a trendy pair of loafers, and some stylish sandals or slides, which are a better option. If you absolutely have to pack another pair, make sure those are comfortable sports sneakers you can travel in, and then wear them for walking or when you go sightseeing.

Clothes

Regardless of the type of vacation you are having, make sure you pack some extra shirts, in case you get wet or dirty. Pieces that can be both casual and formal are men’s polo shirts, which are a classic you can’t go wrong with. Wear it with shorts, pants, or jeans, and it will look stylish, plus they are very comfortable. Pack some basic monochrome t-shirts, a long-sleeved shirt for a night out, and for a crazy night out, take out your favorite print or trendy t-shirt which you didn’t have the chance to wear.

Pack two pairs of jeans, one pair of pants, and just in case, at least one shorts, because it can get hot. Don’t forget sweaters and a light fall jacket. Denim or leather are perfect because they will keep you warm, they go with everything, and they are super trendy. And, of course, don’t forget your favorite bathing suit because you never know where you will have a chance for a quick dip at least. 

Cosmetics

Keeping your skin protected when traveling is pretty hard, which is why you need to have at least some basic skincare products in your cosmetics bag. A face wash, a moisturizer, some wet wipes, sunblock, a deodorant, razors, and at least a concealer will be enough, although you can pack some other go-to products. Make sure to pack travel sizes, and for the purpose of traveling light, you can get all your bath essentials once you get there. And since your cosmetics bag will probably hold these items, condoms, band-aids, and a basic meds kit should be there as well. 

Accessories

The first and most important thing is a bag or a backpack, whichever you like better. It’s convenient because you can carry it wherever you go, pack all your personal belongings, and even pack something you bought there. 

A wristwatch is the main jewelry piece you need, but if you are a fan of bracelets or necklaces, do pack them, just don’t wear them while you get through airport control. A cool cap can complete your style, so if you like wearing them, pick your favorite and pack it. Sunglasses and a belt should also be on your list. 

Fun and games

In the fun and games section, we will include all the technology since that’s where a lot of the fun is. Your phone, charger, a speaker, headphones, power bank, and a camera are some of the essentials. You can take photos, record, listen to music, talk to people, and get maps and directions when you need it. If you know you will be attending a crazy party, do pack something fun like a wig, glitter, funny clothes, or even just socks or underwear that is at least silly. If your type of fun is a bit calmer atmosphere, a kindle or a book are a good choice. 

5 Tips For Working Out on a Vacation

Are you one of those people who go all out on their vacations? Do you sleep less, so you could do more sightseeing, partying, and drinking during the day (and night), or just enjoy more time in the sun? Do you skip your workouts as well? Well, that’s what vacations are for. However, it’s difficult to fit your gym time in your schedule when you’re back to your daily routine after the vacation. We fall in love with that casual lifestyle when we’re not doing anything at all, and then we struggle with deciding to go back to the gym later on. Nevertheless, here are a few tips you can implement when you’re on a vacation to stay close to your routine and to reap all the benefits of working out anywhere and anytime.

Don’t ride buses, ride bicycles

Participating in sightseeing tours is a big part of everyone’s vacation, but is there anything better than carefree bus rides? Yes, there is! How about renting a bike and experiencing all the beautiful landscapes firsthand, not through a bus window? You can enjoy fresh air, sweat some calories out and work on that booty. If you prefer spending time with a company, you can always sign up for a cycling tour and meet a lot of like-minded people. You will save some money, improve your navigation skills, build muscle and improve flexibility. And the best thing is, you won’t emit any carbon into the atmosphere! On the other hand, if you’re planning to turn cycling into your hobby, investing in a good touring bike is a great idea, too. Make a list of things your bike should have and look for a budget friendly yet quality one.

Don’t forget the essentials

Who in this world thinks about packing some of their workout equipment when going on a vacation? I mean, you already need a lot of space for all your clothes and beauty products. However, you should consider fitting in at least some of the essentials. You can definitely squeeze in training tops and bottoms, running shoes, two pairs of socks, resistance bands, and a jumping rope. And one more thing. You never know what kind of food you’ll stumble upon on your vacation. To make sure you never slack on your diet, bring a pack of your WPI (whey protein isolate) and make those days stress-free.

Pick your accommodation with more attention

A lot of hotels have their own gyms you can use every day. Even if your hotel doesn’t have one, you can still keep up with your workout routine. Scan the area to see if there are some other workout facilities you could use. Take a swim in the pool early in the morning, or go jogging. If there are a lot of stairs in the neighborhood, even better! Your legs and booty will be grateful even if it’s just a 10-minute workout plan.

Sleep time is important

This is the fact that can never be emphasized enough. Everyone always talks about getting a good portion of sleep, but why is it so important? Have you ever heard of the growth hormone? It’s a small protein which helps the muscles you worked on during the day grow. Sleep is important because this hormone is normally produced at higher levels during the night than during the day. Also, you don’t need those dark circles forming under your eyes, so you better get some good amount of sleep. You need to feel rested to pull off that early morning workout session.

Eat a lot, but eat healthily 

Working out, walking around and biking will surely get you tired and hungry. You’ll have to replenish what you burn as it will probably be more than the amount you usually burn when you’re not on a vacation. It’s really important to have proper meals, don’t skip any meals throughout the day, and eat a lot of greens. If you have to skip a meal for some reason, consider buying a veggie smoothie. It’s refreshing, healthy, and you won’t be hungry.

Working out on a vacation doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the gym. Opt for shorter, high-intensity sessions early in the morning, which will get you ready for the whole day. You can replace the session in the gym with rope jumping, biking, hiking, any sort of physical activity. Anything is good as long as you’re moving your body.

How to Plan a Perfect LGBT Honeymoon

No matter if you’re a sucker for weddings or not, we can all agree that the honeymoon is the best part of any wedding. This is the time to make the best memories, relax and start your marriage on the right foot. However, without ample planning, your trip can end up being a total bust. So, here are a few practical tips on how to plan a perfect LGBT honeymoon.

Plan well

All the best honeymoons are planned while both parties are on the same page. So, make sure to talk it over before you start contacting travel agents! Do you want to unwind and relax or have a wild adventure that will fill you with adrenaline? Do you prefer bright lights of the city or the quiet of the beach and nature? You must know what you want as a couple and what you prefer as travelers. This will allow you to plan the best honeymoon to mark the beginning of your life together.

Research your destination

Here’s the harsh truth, it’s still illegal to be LGBT in over 80 countries and in 13 you can be sentenced to death for being gay. However, traveling as a gay person can be risky no matter where you go. This is not scaremongering, but even ultra-liberal destinations like NYC, London and Amsterdam have instances of anti-LGBT violence. Now, you can’t miss your honeymoon because you’re scared! But, what you can do is pick a more gay-friendly destination—we just want you to be safe, alright!

Choose LGBT-friendly accommodation

Not every destination has obviously gay resorts and hotels, so make sure to do your research. When in doubt, check with Ebab or go through Fodor’s and Frommer’s selections. You’ll get to find all sorts of LGBT sections, area-specific tips and no-nos for gay romance.

Pack well

If you’re going to a tropical island or anywhere where you’re planning to spend the majority of your time at the beach, you don’t need much. However, you still want to be stylish and even maybe show off your love. For instance, lesbian couples can check out one piece swimwear online and grab matching swimwear. You’ll look so fabulous together (you might look like walking lesbian stereotypes, but who cares!). However, if you’re planning to have fancy dinners in the city, you’ll need something more formal, preferably with sleeves. Additionally, don’t forget to pack all your sex toys and gear. You might get a chance to renew your collection at your destination, but who knows whether they sell anything. You just can’t risk it.

Organize something special

Just because you tied the knot, that doesn’t mean you can leave romance and grand gestures behind you! Take time to surprise your spouse with something very exciting and show just how much you love them. Use your knowledge of their preferences to come up with something amazing that will surely make them happy. If you have a hopeless romantic for a husband, plan a private evening with bubbly, roses and a lot of cuddling. On the other hand, if your wife loves adventure, a field trip to nature will make her feel over the moon.  

Don’t forget why you’re doing this

The most important thing about honeymoons is the feeling of doing something together, as a couple. So, no matter how much you hate organizing stuff, make sure to stay engaged and give your feedback. This planning time will not only allow you to grow as a couple but also bring you closer together. If you plan it together, it will make your honeymoon even more perfect. So, don’t forget why you’re doing this—to celebrate your beautiful love and your victory over haters!

Sure, planning a perfect honeymoon is not something you can do in one afternoon, but if you stay focused and do your homework, you’ll end up in real LGBT heaven!