My Favorite Travel Finds

One of the best parts of my job traveling the world is finding really "cool stuff" along the way. I thought today that I'd share a few of those.

Perhaps the most fun and innovative find are the Squishy Bowls found online at Guyot Design's website. The collapsible bowls are perfect for traveling. You can get little shot-size

 bowls (2 for $7.95), a medium all-purpose bowl($10.95) or a cup and bowl set for $15.95. Be sure to check them out before your next trip at www.guyotdesigns.com

The next great finds are luxurious microcotton towels. They are made of 100% super-soft cotton and are super absorbent. I found a pair of chocolate-colored ones in a little shop in Rosemary Beach, FL. I picked up two of the bath towels last year and, after almost constant use and repeated washings, they still look like new. You can go online to www.microcotton.com for a list of stores.

I love bath products, so I'm always looking for great soaps and lotions. Napa Soap Company makes great bar soap. They're all 100% natural and come in such great "flavors" as Cabernet Soapignon, Honey Please Pass the Soap, Ocean Potion and Cocoa-Loco. You can buy each bar for $7.95 or buy 12 and get one free. Check the out online at www.napasoapcompany.com.

Some of my favorite products are by Acca Kappa. This Italian company offers everything from body and hair care products to brushes and accessories. Two favorites of mine are the White Moss body lotion and the Lip Balm with SPF7 protection. The smell and texture of both are pure luxury. There are Acca Kappa Boutiques in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. You can also find the products at Conran Shop, Cabana, Ogilvy, Four Seasons Hotels, and at a selection of fine hotel boutiques and spas. Check out the complete line online at www.accakappa.com.

Speaking of soaps, check out Cali Soaps. The Oliva products, all based on old recipes using Italian Olive Oil recipes using olive oil extracts, are wonderful. The soap is full of vitamines and smells delightful. My favorite is the Baby Powder. It's fresh and clean--perfect for the baby in al of us. You can find out more online at www.calicosmetics.com.

One of my best finds was made at the gift shop at The Frist Center for the Vi

sual Arts in Nashville. It was an unusual spot in which to find what I think is the word's best mint. Oral Fixation mints come in these handy little tins and in a variety of flavors. The company has a BYOB policy -- "Build Your Ow Box. You can choose 12 tins in any selection of flavors. If you prefer, you can get a 6-pack sampler for $15. Create your own order online at www.oralfix.com.

A writer wouldn't be anywhere without a great notebook. The ones I love are created and sold primarily in England, but I was able to find them at Borders and Barnes & Noble. Check out the ones by Chronicle Books featuring the designs of Cath Kidstone. Cath Kidstone offers everything for the homemaker (including bed linens) to clothing and accessories. But I love the books and stationery. I purchased the bird notebook. It wells for over 7 Euros on line, but I was able to purchase it for $9.95 from Barnes & Nobel.