Uber, Lyft, Bolt, rental cars... they're all great when you're traveling. But there's a certain charm about local public transportation that can't be replicated. It's often a little bit inconvenient, sometimes a bit uncomfortable, maybe it's warm? maybe it's packed? Whatever it is.. I kind of love it. It feels authentic. It's a glimpse at the day to day life of real people living their lives in the place you're a visitor in. Our first train ride in Portugal started at Boliqueime station. Okay.. actually it started with an Uber to the station. One of those uber rides where you semi fear your life and question how easily you hop into a car with a stranger whose driving you've not previously assessed, but I digress.. Boliqueime Station is a quiet little train station in Algarve, southern Portugal. This is not a manned station which means you will need to purchase your tickets in advance. How do you buy train tickets in Portugal? How do you buy train tickets in Portugal?Visit the official website for Portugal's train system - Comboios de Portugal and select "comprar bilhetes" (buy tickets). You'll be able to enter your starting point and end destination and see choices for train times and prices. Our ticket from Boliqueime to Portimão was 4.15 euro per person. This trip is about an hour long. Your ticket will be emailed to you and you can print it or show it on your phone and it will be scanned on the train. If you can't purchase a ticket in advance, you'll be happy to know you can pay with exact change on the train. After boarding and once the train departs, someone will walk through each car to verify tickets of all new passengers. Waiting for a train is an excellent time to catch up on reading, studying, or just take a moment to really be present and observe the little things. On this particular day I took a moment for this outfit combo that I have been gravitating toward all summer so far: It's one of those outfits that feels comfortable, effortless, yet put together. Super functional with the cross body purse with magnetic closure and the linen skirt with pockets.. No wonder I keep reaching for it. Can't forget the shadow-engulfed shoes... Boliqueime station is super quiet and there is not much around the immediate area, however right at the station there are beautiful citrus trees! And a lovely view to appreciate as you wait. Trains in Portugal - What if I miss my train?If you cancel in advance you can get a refund and rebook. If you are at a manned station, you can talk to someone in person about exchanging your ticket. In our case, the station was unmanned and we missed our train so we couldn't cancel it in advance. We tried to buy a new ticket for the next train online but the purchase window had closed. So we were prepared to pay again on the train if necessary. We showed our ticket for the previous train to the man and he maintained silence and a bit of a stern expression in response to our apologetic tone and willingness to repay. Finally he said next time, be sure to exchange your ticket and walked away. In Portugal, things are always possible. :) Tradlands Meadow Linen Skirt ReviewTradlands Meadow Linen Skirt in Olive, shown above, is a new release for 2022 from Tradlands and it is definitely a hit. With a size range from XXS-5X, almost everyone can find their perfect summer skirt in the meadow skirt! When I say perfect summer skirt, I truly mean it. This linen skirt is perfect for summer. It has a comfortable elastic waistband, two generous pockets, an ideal length and gather so you don't have to worry about gusts of wind, all in an elevated fabric blend of linen and tencel. It's true a stunning piece and easily one of my favorites in my entire wardrobe. For sizing, I went with the size chart recommendation of a medium with a 27" waist. This is definitely a comfortable size for me, though I feel I could have sized down to a small to wear it higher without needing a belt. The olive color is gorgeous and if you can save up for one olive and one black of this skirt.. you'd be set for life girl. This is a skirt that you can wear with flip flops, tennis shoes, or heels. Dress it up or down, wear it constantly, live your life in the comfort and effortless style of tradlands meadow linen skirt! Thanks so much to Tradlands for gifting the meadow linen skirt to review and share with visitors to the blog!
Check out tradlands meadow skirt here and support this amazing brand!
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Dyson Cordless Vacuum Alternative - Lupe Technology Pure Cordless Vacuum The Best Cordless Vacuum!9/9/2021
While this little Lupe Technology post is not sponsored, I am proud to be an affiliate for such a great brand!
For as long as I can remember, the top name in vacuums and cordless vacuums has been Dyson. That name often comes with a hefty price tag yet most who have parted with their eldest in exchange for a Dyson, sing it’s praises.
Shark has gained a name in the vacuum industry for quality and affordability, holding their own against Dyson. Yet a new player is now on the horizon. Have you heard about Lupe yet? Forbes called it “The Rolls Royce of Vaccums”
Lupe Technology Review Lupe Vacuum Review
A Bit About Lupe Technology
If you’re looking for the best vacuum 2021, or more specifically, the best cordless vacuum (because sweeper cords are soooo annoying) look no father than the Bristol, UK tech startup Lupe Technology. Founders Lucas Horne and Pablo Montero set out not just to make another vacuum, but to engineer a cleaner world by operating on the principle:
“innovate what we should, not what we could” The earth doesn’t need more junk, more products with too many options that aren’t used, needed, or efficient. We don’t constantly need a new model just because a company “can” or need to for marketing. We need to “buy well, buy once” as the Lupe Pure Cordless Vacuum Cleaner product page urges and reminds.
Lupe Pure Coordless Vacuum Review
Lupe Technology Sustainability
Lupe Technology is ISO 14001 certified and currently carbon neutral with a carbon negative goal set for 2023. Way to go team!
The Lupe Pure Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is better than Dyson and Shark vacuums in a number of tests by independent vacuum enthusiast/researcher Vacuum Wars.
Some pros of the Lupe cordless vacuum include:
Best Coordless vacuum 2021 best Coordless vacuum 2022
As you can see the Pure Cordless vacuum looks more like a slim “regular” vacuum, compared to most of the cordless stick vacuums currently out which hold most of their weight at the handle. I personally do not understand that design trend and find them to be awkward to use, resulting in tired and sore arms/wrists. Not to mention how easily they topple over if not propped up carefully enough. The Lupe Pure may be a bit heavier than it’s competitors, but you’re losing that frustration of a tired arm and gaining a superior clean. Besides, when weight is properly distributed in a well thought out design… you’ll hardly notice. ;)
It’s easy to underestimate how important a clean home is. Many people live with a hastily tidied home and don’t realize that the dust etc they are missing can contribute to poor indoor air quality, allergies, and general feelings of being unwell physically and mentally/emotionally. Quality cleaning tools are a worthwhile investment for your health and when you buy something that will truly last, it’s also good for your wallet and the planet in the long run.
I’m thrilled to share with you that Lupe Technology is running a huge sale right now. You canget a $200 discount on the Lupe Pure Cordless vacuum cleaner through the end of the month! No Lupe coupon code or discount code needed and hey! Free shipping anywhere in the world, isn’t that amazing?
Sustainable vacuum company ethical vacuum company
For Your Home:
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The LuggageThe Carry-On with Pocket
After having my primary checked luggage lost and damaged on my first huge international trip 6 years ago, I vowed to join the carry-on only crowd and have never looked back. Undeniably there are circumstances in which checking luggage is not avoidable or may be preferred, but if you are looking for a really solid carry-on bag that will stand the test of time, you can really buy theAway Carry-On with a sense of confidence.
The Everywhere Bag
Inside The LuggagePacking Cubes
Packing cubes are an absolute must when I travel now. They help me pack in an organized way and rather than having everything smashed in my luggage, I can pull out a cube grab the item I want, and re-place it in the luggage. This is helpful when you are doing intensive travel where you are moving every couple days and don't want to "fully" unpack. You can come up with a system that works for you - cubes for each outfit, cubes for categories (socks and undies, tops, bottoms, swim etc).
Pro Packing Cubes
Very lightweight, mesh helps you see what's inside, not super structured - you can smash a lot in and it's okay if things are oddle shaped. Current price for 4-piece set $19.95
Dot&Dot Packing Cubes
Mesh window to see inside easily, fun colors, lightweight, I really like the long slim cube, which is a size you don't always see.
5 packs vary in price based on size and currently start at $17.99. Shacke Pak
My husband uses the Shacke Pak packing cubes and they have been durable during 5 years of travel so far. They also have mesh so you can see what's inside and include a laundry bag! 5 packs currently $20.99
Tripped Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes
I don't personally have these, but if you are looking for compression packing cubes and want to support a small business, check out Tripped Travel Gear. Tim & Fin have a really fun YouTube channel and support their travel ways through YT and these packing cubes which are really highly rated! These are different than the above options because they offer compression, which is helpful if you are looking to pack as much as possible in a small space. 6 pieces are currently $44.95
The Insider Packing Cubes
Stay ComfortableEye Mask
My sleep quality has improved tremendously since I started wearing an eye mask to bed. It's a simple change that can have a big impact. If I use it at home, why wouldn't I want to use it during travel? A sleep mask is especially helpful on long flights when you really need to try to get some sleep, not to mention the moments when you aren't in the mood to interact with people..... lol.
Mulberry Silk Eye Mask
The Sleep Mask
Best Selling Sleep Mask On Amazon
By comparison, here is the current best selling sleep mask on Amazon. It's got memory foam and 43,000 reviews 4.7 star rating.
Neck Pillow
Neck pillows are something I like to travel with, but the downside is they can be bulky. I hate the feeling of just falling asleep on a plane and then your head drops suddenly, yanking your neck around and you're suddenly jolted out of sleep. It happens on repeat. A neck pillow can really solve this issue!
The Travel Neck Pillow
Best Selling Travel Neck Pillow On Amazon
Here is the current best selling travel neck pillow on Amazon with 4.5 stars and over 13,000 reviews.
Ergonomic design, memory foam, and magnetic therapy cloth? Intruiging. Blanket
You'll likely be getting a blanket on a long haul flight, but what if you're cold on a shorter flight? Or better yet what if you're cold in the airport on a long layover? Bringing a blanket can be a great idea if you can find one that will not take up too much precious real estate. Here are some ideas.
The Travel Blanket
The Chrysalis Cardi
Cashmere Blanket Scarf or Throw
Compression Socks
I always travel with compression socks, especially if I am taking long haul flights that will have me sitting for too many hours at a time. A lot of times I will wear a pair of regular ankle socks under them so I can get more use out of them between washes if needed.
The Compression Socks
Best Selling Compression Socks On Amazon
Here's one of the best selling compression socks on Amazon with 41,000 ratings averaging 4.6 stars:
HeadphonesBeats
AirPods Pro
Stay Healthy
Taking care of your health is important during travel and we all have even more awareness of this since COVID-19 emerged.
Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle
Mira Brand is an affordable alternative to the popular swell bottles. I recommend the matte, solid color finished over the prints and shiny ones that can peel over time. Staying hydrated is so important. Also grab asilicone/carabiner attachment so you can clip it to your luggage or backpack anytime!
Healthy Snacks
Consider bringing some healthy snacks with you - nuts, sliced apples, protein bars etc when possible and appropriate.
Supplements
Many people swear by airborne, ester c to support their immune system. Melatonin, Melissa, and are valued by many to help them sleep on the plane and adjust to a new time zone.
Essential Oils
Some great essential oils for travel include immune supporting blends and sleep/calming essential oil blends. However, please be courteous of those around you on a flight when using things that may smell strong, even if they are natural. :-)
Face masks & Sanitizer
Face masks and sanitizer will likely be with most of us for a while during travel. Last object has come up with a cool kit to keep your mask and sanitizer in one handy spot. Get 10% off any Last Object order here!!
Tissues
Last Tissue is also perfect for blowing your nose on the go! I won't travel without these now! Get a discount on Last Tissue Here
More Travel Posts
For the longest time I wanted to get some patio furniture, but for one reason or another I always put it off.
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Shipping & Delivery - Best Choice Products Patio Furniture Review
I ordered this set from Amazon and it actually came in 2 boxes on 2 different days. You’ll need to wait until both boxes arrive in order to assemble the set. The boxes were a bit mangled on the outside but nothing appeared to be damaged inside. There was a small knick on a piece as you can see below, but not from the shipping. Very minor and not really noticeable after assembly. I actually forgot about it until looking back at these pictures almost a year later.
Assembly - Best Choice Products Patio Furniture Review
Quality & Durability - Best Choice Products Patio Furniture Review
Necessary Accessories - Best Choice Products Patio Furniture Review
Best Choice Products 10 ft Tilting LED Light Umbrella Review
If this post has helped you in any way, tap a link before your purchase to help support the cost of running this blog at no additional cost to you! I thank you so much! :)
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Shopping habits for most of us changed drastically this past year. Normally saving every penny for an adventure out of town, this year had a lot of us spending our time and paychecks at home. Here’s how I made home a little more homey in 2020.
1. Move Furniture Around
This didn’t require any purchasing, but it was one of the first things I did during the initial lockdown. Moving furniture around can make you feel like you’re in a totally different space. And if you don’t like it? Easy. Just move it back. Also doubles as a great workout. lol
Get a discount on easy eco-friendly swaps for your home with code TRIPDONTFALL
2. Buy New Pillow Covers
Changing pillows on your couch can change the vibe of the room. But before you go out and buy a whole new pillow, maybe you just need a new cover for your pillow? I tried a few boho macrame pillow covers, tons of options on Amazon but for something more special and handmade definitely check etsy. Of course you can find pillow covers to match whatever your style is!
Get a discount on easy eco-friendly swaps for your home with code TRIPDONTFALL
3. Order Houseplants. Online.
Now that you're home a lot more, maybe you can give houseplants a try! Having living plants in your home is soothing and the opportunity to nurture something and see it grow in a time of chaos can be very valuable.
I ordered plants online from this company, full review to come!
Get a discount on easy eco-friendly swaps for your home with code TRIPDONTFALL
4. Try New Delivery Services5. Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space
If you're fortunate enough to have a yard, porch, balcony, or patio - is it inviting? Can you update that space so you can enjoy using it more? Check this post for6 tips to help you choose patio furniture! Having an inviting living space (indoor or outdoor) can make staying at home so much more enjoyable! See what you can tidy and declutter and then see if you an addition would really make a difference.
Get a discount on easy eco-friendly swaps for your home with code TRIPDONTFALL
6. Refresh Your Sheets & Towels
This is something I sometimes procrastinate on. You don't have to wait until your sheets and towels are threadbare and unarguably gross before replacing them. I recently got some eucalyptus sheets from sheets & giggles and some linen sheets as well. I also replaced our bath towels and compared two brands. You can read about that here! Having fresh sheets and towels will make the mundane feel a little more luxurious!
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