Travel

Traveling is expensive; the last thing you need is to spend your vacation budget at the airport. If you're not careful, the cost of hidden fees and pricey food can easily break the bank and spend your sightseeing savings. From packing the essentials to lightening your load, these tips and tricks will save you money so you can spend your cash on the important things, like that tropical cocktail!

• Be your own entertainer: Put yourself on a boredom budget by packing everything you need to keep occupied. Download movies beforehand, and pack the magazines you haven't had time to read. Whatever you do, don't rely on airport WiFi. Besides being slow, it's expensive and not secure. If you travel often, consider a travel router or asking your cell phone provider about a personal mobile hotspot. For a small monthly fee, you will save on roaming charges and the cost of public WiFi.
• Lighten your load: Because most airlines charge a hefty fee for checked bags, carry on. Only pack the essentials and a foldable duffel in case you head home with souvenirs. If you must check a bag, stick with your airline rather than the airport porter to avoid having to tip.
• Snack smart: Since most airport meals are priced higher than average, plan your snacks and meals in advance. Don't rely on your airline for food, either; most flights no longer offer meal service. Consider pairing that (stingy) bag of peanuts with a sandwich or salad from home and carrying an empty water bottle to fill up. This will save you money and cut calories, too.
• Avoid the unexpected: Before you leave, pack a small emergency kit filled with essentials like aspirin, band-aids, and antinausea medicine. This will help you avoid the price newsstands charge on toiletries. Also, always carry cash. Having an allotted budget will prevent you from using credit or paying an ATM fee.
• Study up: A little research can go a long way and save you money. Before you pack, check the TSA's website for specific regulations to avoid having to toss belongings. Check your airline's website, too. You can often score coupons for free drinks and deals on transportation and hotels.

If you're headed off to a wedding that's set in a remote location, beautifying as a guest, bridesmaid, or even the bride can be a challenge. From not being able to tote your entire hair and makeup stash with you to no salon in sight, you might have to pull a beauty MacGyver. Or perhaps you just want to look fabulous without making that trip to the salon. Find out how you can fake a professional service when you keep reading.

Leave it to the Viceroy hotel to define Southern California sophistication. This beachside hotel merges classic and contemporary pieces into an upscale bohemian resort that captures the beachy style we've been seeking. But, if a trip to Santa Monica isn't in the books, steal the style. Between the pops of color and sleek accents, California chic can easily make its way into your home this Summer.

• Maze Pillow ($295): A graphic pillow can become the focal point of the bed when placed against all-white bedding.
• Black and Brass Rider Bench ($695): Place this bench at the end of a bed for a glamorous touch.
• Perch Table Lamp ($69): Use this mid-century lamp to add a pop of color to a side table or desk.
• Delphine Chair ($1,795): This chair is classic yet bold thanks to its bright Kelly green color.
• Metropolitan Black Candlesticks ($60, originally $86): Give your tabletop a luxe touch with these deco candlesticks.
• Monofiori Balloton Vase ($301): Styled with or without flowers, this green vase is an eye-catching piece.
• Pagoda-Shaped Mirror ($495): Because of its cutout frame, use this mirror to open up a small space.
• Jungle Tray ($36): Serve up a breezy Southern California vibe using this tray.

Settle into vacation mode all Summer long by outfitting your pad like a boutique hotel. We're taking cues from the CONDESA hotel in the heart of Mexico City. The use of gorgeous colors, natural materials, and well-appointed outdoor areas give this hotel a style worth coveting. Just in case international travel isn't on your agenda this Summer, we've pulled together items that will help you get the look — and channel the vibe — without having to leave your own backyard.

• Liberty Tile ($240 per square foot): A neutral palette allows for the bold geometric pattern to take center stage.
• Clouds Throw ($675): This hand-spun merino wool blanket is just the thing for chillier nights spent under the stars.
• Emerald City by Mythic Paint ($50 per gallon): Painting a room in this bright hue will make you feel as though you've spent the day at the beach.
• Vibe Sphere Pendant ($65): These modern lights have a cloud-like feel when they hang in a blue room.
• Innit Seating ($475): This adaption of the classic Acapulco chair has a built-in rocker.
• Tasman Tetrad Stool ($448): Let this earthy seat double as a place to stack reading material while you sunbathe.
• Saudades Pillow ($35): Though this pillow was inspired by Brazil, we think it evokes the feel of this Mexican escape.
• Superior Metallic Cowhide ($728): A hide rug feels glamorous with splashes of copper paint.



• Single Chaise ($1,698): Soak in the rays in comfort and style with this lounger.
• Market Umbrella ($243): When the afternoon sun becomes unbearable, a good patio umbrella is a must.
• Hourglass Ceramic Garden Stool ($187): Introduce a curvy silhouette with this seat that can double as a side table.
• Dora Maar Planter ($795): Though pricey, this gigantic planter certainly makes a statement.
• Montauk Outdoor Pillow ($74): Turquoise and tangerine are a hot and cool palette we can't get enough of.
• Sundial Pillow ($30): The pattern on this pillow reminds us of traditional papel picado.
• Regatta Ottoman ($359, originally $429): Sunbrella outdoor fabric ensures that this piece will stand the test of time.
• Hanging Nest Planter ($34): Freshen up a patio space by including floor planters and hanging greenery.