Ava Pierce: The Blog - Lounge. Rant. Find your inner bitch.: July 2009

Friday, July 31, 2009

JSTD: Find the best seat

If you have a seating preference when you travel, use SeatGuru.com (free) and Nonrevcheckin.com (small lifetime registration fee) to choose your seat ahead of time.

Jet Set Tip of the Day sponsored by:

Photo Friday: Turin, Italy

Today's Annoyance: Fair-weather friends
Mantra of the Day: Courage is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm. Winston Churchill

2006 Winter Olympic rings
(Porta Nuova train station in background)

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Global Jet Set Media, Inc.]

Thursday, July 30, 2009

JSTD: Not sure where to go?

Try TripBase.com, where you can input your total trip budget, your anticipated dates of travel, and what you're most interested in (e.g., nightlife, dining, shopping, nature, attractions, etc.). The site generates a laundry list of cool places where you can go that fit your budget.

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"Let's take a break"

Today's Annoyance: Crappy breakup excuses
Mantra of the Day: Go away. I don't like you anymore.

Have you ever had someone break up with you by suggesting that you "take a break"? I mean, what's the point? There must be a reason for the breakup but is "taking a break" really going to solve the problem?

Earlier this year, Sweden's Prince Carl Philip and his girlfriend of ten years, Emma Pernald, mutually decided to take a break. Reportedly, they did so based on surmounting pressure following his sister's engagement announcement. On hearing this, my first thought was: "So, they'll wait until the pressure's off, then get back together?" Interesting strategy.

I have to wonder how many people actually get back together after taking a break. I'm not sure how trustful I would be after such a passive-aggressive excuse. Plus, it seems like the same problems will be waiting for both of you if and when you actually get back together. Just a thought.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

JSTD: Minimize wait time

Check FlightStats.com (for U.S. and Canadian flights) or AirTravelCenter (for international flights) before heading to the airport to track flight status and airport delays. iPhone users can download the Mobiata app for international info.

Jet Set Tip of the Day sponsored by:

As long as you're watching TV...

Today's Annoyance: Bad news and reruns
Mantra of the Day: TV can be educational, if you're selective.

It always freaks me out when I read about how much more TV Americans watch than other people around the world. How exactly does someone watch 8+ hours of TV every day? That's at least one-third of the day! Granted, I have a few TV-related addictions which include a few dramas, an occasional sports-related program, and a couple of reality shows. (I'm hooked on The Apprentice and The Apprentice UK because of the business aspect.). Thankfully, I don't watch much (bad) news because it's too biased and it gets on my nerves.

I have to admit that the bulk of my TV viewing feeds my jet-setter-in-training lifestyle. I've long been a fan of the Travel Channel, Food Network, and Fine Living. I recently became addicted to Wealth TV, which features shows like Let's Shop, The Luxury Travel Show, The Best of Everything, and Etiquette 101. As far as I'm concerned, this is justified time. My goal, of course, is to spend more time doing than viewing. lol

Live large!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Wealth TV]

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

JSTD: Pay attention

The whole point in traveling is to enjoy new surroundings so do your best to avoid staring into mobile screens (e.g., phone, PDA, "CrackBerry", etc.). Plus, it's simply safer when your head is held high, paying attention to your surroundings.

Jet Set Tip of the Day sponsored by:

Jet-setting is a full-time job

Today's Annoyance: My ailing time management skills
Mantra of the Day: I can do anything I set my mind to.

Between socializing, trip-planning, keeping my wardrobe up-to-date without breaking the bank, staying fit, healthy and fabulous and, oh yeah, generating the funds to pay for my lifestyle, jet-setting is indeed a full-time job. See why I need a personal assistant?

My appreciation for Tim Ferriss' 4-Hour Workweek grows by the day.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]

Monday, July 27, 2009

JSTD: Find your size

Keep a list of your U.S., UK and European clothing and shoe sizes to make shopping abroad easier. Sites like Travel Signposts, AskNumbers, and ConvertALot can help.

Jet Set Tip of the Day sponsored by:

New giveaway: The Brag Company Panty Pak

Today's Annoyance: Airport security rifling through my intimate apparel
Mantra of the Day: I'll only expose my La Perlas as I see fit.

I have found the most adorable way to transport my precious undies - in a Panty Pak by The Brag Company.

This fantastic little case unzips to reveal two separate pockets for storing your clean and "not so clean" intimates while you're on-the-go. (They also make Bra Bags!) Just drop it into your suitcase and you're ready for the world! Too adorable, right?

The Brag Company offers several matching designs for their Bra Bags and Panty Paks, and they currently have a "free shipping on 2 or more items" promotion.

If you want to win one, here are the rules:

1. You get 1 entry for leaving a relevant comment on any of my blog posts. (Spam and single-word comments don't count. And, as usual, comments posted before today don't count.)

2. You get 1 bonus entry for sending a tweet about the giveaway on Twitter. Be sure to reference my Twitter account - @avapierce - in your announcement so that you receive a bonus entry. (There's a maximum of 2 entries per person for this giveaway.)

3. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.

4. The contest will end on Friday, July 31, 2009.

5. One winner will be selected using Random.org and will be announced on my blog and via Twitter on Monday, August 3. You must check the site to see if you've won; all the more reason for you to subscribe via e-mail or RSS! ;o) The winner must contact me by e-mail (ava at avapierce dot com) within three days of the announcement to claim their prize. If the winner does not claim their prize within that time period, another name will immediately be drawn for the prize.

E-mail me with questions about the giveaway: ava at avapierce dot com. Good luck!

Sunday, July 26, 2009

"Business Class" winner

Andi, you won! Random.org selected #4 of 11 blog and Twitter entries so you're the lucky winner of Jacqueline Whitmore's book Business Class: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work.

Please send me your street address (to ava at avapierce dot com) by Wednesday, July 29 (11:59 p.m. ET). Your contact info will not be sold or used for any other purposes.

Thanks for entering the giveaway and keep up the great work at Misadventures with Andi!!

Friday, July 24, 2009

New Balanzza Giveaway Winner!

Tina Reynolds, today's your lucky day! Unfortunately, the previously announced winner did not contact me to collect her Balanzza digital luggage scale. So, using Random.org, I selected a new winner - #23 of 26 entries.

Tina, please send your full name & street address to ava @ avapierce dot com by Monday, July 27 (11:59 p.m. ET). Your contact info will not be sold or used for any other purposes than to send you your prize.

This is a good time to suggest that you subscribe via e-mail or RSS so that you never miss out on my rants, raves, travel adventures and giveaway announcements. (Click on "Subscribe" in the top menu or use the icons in the left menu.) I've scored some major goodies for upcoming giveaways, plus I've got some cool new adventures planned. Thanks for reading and stay tuned!

Bon week-end!

JSTD: Forward your luggage

Instead of paying the airlines crazy fees for a second bag or overweight luggage, use a service like Luggage Forward to ship your bags to your destination.

Jet Set Tip of the Day sponsored by:

Photo Friday: Milan, Italy

Today's Annoyance: That I don't yet speak Italian
Mantra of the Day: All art requires courage. Anne Tucker

"Calamita Cosmica" by Gino de Dominicis
Contemporary art exhibit in the Duomo square

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Global Jet Set Media, Inc.]

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Book Giveaway: "Business Class"

Earlier today, I posted my interview with renowned etiquette expert, Jacqueline Whitmore. Now, I'm giving away a copy of her book Business Class: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work.

THE RULES:

1. You get 1 entry for sharing one of your or someone else's major etiquette faux pas. If you can't think of any etiquette mishaps, check Jacqueline's blog. You also have the option to add a relevant comment to any of my other blog posts. (Spam and single-word comments don't count. And, as usual, comments posted before today don't count.)

2. You get 1 bonus entry for sending a tweet about the book giveaway on Twitter. Be sure to reference my Twitter account - @avapierce - in your announcement so that you receive your bonus entry. (There's a maximum of 2 entries per person for this giveaway.)

3. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada.

4. The contest will end on Saturday, July 25, 2009.

5. The winner will be selected using Random.org and will be announced on my blog and via Twitter on Sunday, July 26. You must check the site to see if you've won; all the more reason for you to subscribe via e-mail or RSS! ;o) The winner must contact me by e-mail (ava at avapierce dot com) within three days of the announcement to claim their prize. If the winner does not claim their prize within that time period, another name will immediately be drawn for the prize.

E-mail me with questions about the giveaway: ava at avapierce dot com. Good luck!

JSTD: Safe keeping

Use a damp towel to wipe down the front of the safe in your hotel room before you open it. Sometimes, hotel staff will put Vaseline (petroleum jelly) on the key pad to figure out a guest's personalized passcode.

Jet Set Tip of the Day sponsored by:

Interview with etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore

Jacqueline Whitmore is an international etiquette expert and the author of “Business Class: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work.” She is also the founder and director of The Protocol School of Palm Beach. Her etiquette advice is sought by numerous publications including The New York Times, USA Today, Glamour, Time, Fortune, Cosmopolitan, and O: The Oprah Magazine.

What inspired you to start The Protocol School of Palm Beach?

For almost six years, I was the assistant director of public relations for The Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida. While there, I was responsible for promoting the hotel’s special events…one being the Annual Etiquette Camp for Children and Adults. In 1994, I decided to participate in the Etiquette Camp for Adults and I absolutely loved it! The instructor recommended that I take her “train-the-trainer” course in Washington, D.C. so I could receive a certification and eventually teach etiquette to others and eventually start my own etiquette business if I ever wanted to. In 1995, I followed her advice and attended her school and started teaching classes to the hotel staff in my spare time. As fate would have it, my job was eliminated in August 1998 and I immediately started my business. I took my severance pay and purchased a computer, printer and fax machine and my husband and I converted our tiny attic into an office.

In your experience, what is the most common etiquette mistake made in social situations?

It’s amazing how many people talk and text on their cell phones while still trying to have a conversation with another person.

How did we end up on Planet Rude and when is the mothership coming back for us?

I am an optimist so I believe that people are inherently good…they just don’t get any credit for it. The media also places more emphasis on wrongdoings. That’s why it seems that our society is becoming ruder by the day. I also think that some people simply don’t know any better and don’t realize that they are being rude. After all, not everyone reads etiquette books or grows up learning proper manners. In my opinion, there are many factors responsible for the decline in civility and manners.

First, we have lost a sense of “community” that was once experienced by our parents and grandparents. We don’t talk to our neighbors anymore. We don’t work for the same company as long as our parents or grandparents did. We tend to relocate more frequently. We don’t sit down as a family at the dinner table anymore. Fast food has become the norm. We have isolated ourselves, using technology as a barrier or a safety net. People will often say things on the Internet that they would never say to someone’s face.

People are overworked, overstressed, sleep deprived and always in a hurry. This causes people to lash out. Long gone are the days where you can pick up the phone to call customer service and get a live voice. Where is the service in that? I could go on and on.

What’s the most fun part of your work?

I love having my own business for many reasons but the main reason is it affords me the flexibility to work at home and work as many hours that I want to work. As a result, I can spend more time with my family and friends.

I love every aspect of my business – writing, speaking, researching, product development, sales and yes, even accounting. I am an actor at heart and love being on stage. I love making an impact on other people’s lives. My work doesn’t feel like work to me. I look forward to each new day. I am truly living my passion!

You’ve met countless celebrities and dignitaries. For jet-setters-in-training who are gradually moving into more exclusive circles, what is appropriate behavior when meeting celebrities and dignitaries (assuming that we can remain conscious and don’t lose our sense of speech)?

Before I became an etiquette expert, I always thought celebrities and dignitaries were bigger than life, untouchable and were not like you and me. Quite the contrary. Celebrities and dignitaries are just ordinary people leading extraordinary lives. They are just like you and me. They just have bigger houses, drive bigger cars, have a bigger bank accounts and have bigger problems. They work all the time and most have reached the pinnacle of their success as a result of working extremely hard and making sacrifices that the ordinary person wouldn’t make. Their “real” friends are few and far between.

I find it’s easier to approach a famous person if you ask someone of importance to introduce you. That person is called a “connector.” You will be viewed as more important if someone the celebrity knows or trusts introduces you. When I was researching famous people to endorse my book, “Business Class,” I did not approach them directly. I found someone who knew them personally and asked that person to make the introduction for me. It was much easier getting an endorsement by using that approach. And once I got one famous person to endorse my book, I used their name to get the second, third and forth endorsement.

What is the best way to handle rude or snobbish people without unleashing one’s inner bitch?

First, you don’t want to give that rude or snobbish person more power by fighting fire with fire. My mother always said, “Killem’ with kindness.” This is easier said than done for most of us. For example if I am at a check-out line in the grocery store and the cashier doesn’t say hello or look me in the eye, I will oftentimes look at her nametag, greet her by name and ask her about her day. This simple technique will usually break the ice. Keep in mind that you may be the only person who was nice to that cashier all day because you took the time and made the effort.

I’m absolutely terrible with small talk. Do you have a suggestion for making great conversation with new people?

Just last night I attended a birthday party for my friend, Donny. After getting a drink, I sat down at a table with a group of strangers. As soon as I sat down, I smiled and said hello and introduced myself to every person at the table. In turn, each person smiled and introduced themselves. Before I could utter another word the woman next to me asked, “How do you know Donny?” This was an instant ice breaker! Everyone in the room had one thing in common…we were all there to celebrate our friend’s birthday. In short, it’s very easy to start a conversation when you have something in common with another person. If you don’t know what you have in common, you’ve got to ask the right questions and find a commonality. That means you ask a few good opening questions and then shut up. In other words, when you’re listening, you’re learning about someone else. When you’re talking, you’re not learning a thing.

If someone is invited to a major event, such as a ball or high-profile awards ceremony, but they’re on a limited budget, what would you suggest as appropriate attire to make a good impression?

I love to shop at consignment stores because I can always find a great outfit at an affordable price. Or if you have a friend with great taste who is your same size, ask to borrow an outfit from them as long as you pay for the dry cleaning bill. If neither one of these suggestions work for you, go out and buy a basic black suit. No need to spend a lot of money. Pair it with a colorful silk blouse and add fun, funky or elegant accessories. Get over the fact that everyone is going to scrutinize your outfit (unless you’re going to be presenting or receiving an award). Most people won’t remember what you wear but they WILL remember the wonderful conversation they had with you!

What’s your favorite travel destination and why?

This is a tough question because I can always find something wonderful to do wherever I travel. I meet more people when I travel by myself. It forces me to ask questions and make friends with strangers. Aside from that, I have to say that one of my most memorable trips was when my husband and I went to Greece on our honeymoon in 1998. Santorini is one of the most beautiful and romantic places on earth! I love the food and the culture. I especially like the fact that no one seems to be in a hurry.

July is National Cellphone Courtesy Month. What should everyone do to be more considerate of others?

I founded National Cellphone Courtesy Month in 2002 in an effort to help teach people how to be more courteous while talking on their cellphones. To learn more about this event, you can visit my blog at http://etiquetteexpert.blogspot.com.

You can follow her on Twitter at @etiquettexpert. To subscribe to Jacqueline’s free e-newsletter or to book her to speak at your next event, please e-mail info@etiquetteexpert.com.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

JSTD: Fend off strangers with headphones

Headphones are a great way to avoid the attention of overzealous suitors. If you're listening to music or a podcast, be sure to keep the sound low enough so that you can pay attention to your surroundings.

Jet Set Tip of the Day sponsored by:

Travel must-haves from Lug

Today's Annoyance: Unattractive travel gear
Mantra of the Day: Being anything but fabulous is not an option.

In my ongoing search for cool travel gear, I happily found Lug. Yay! Here are pics of some of their goodies:

Nap Sac Travel Blanket - $28
Featured in Oprah's November O list

Shuttle Bus Weekender Bag - $99
Perfect for a weekend getaway

Puddle Jumper Overnight / Gym Bag - $75
Another Oprah O Lister; lots of compartments; made for a jet-setter

All of these products come in a variety of fabulous colors like crimson red, ocean teal and sunset orange. And, of course, if Lady O gives them a thumbs up, they have major cred. ;o)

[IMAGES: Courtesy of Lug]

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

JSTD: Walk toward the lights

Whether you're walking or driving, stay in well-trafficked and well-lit areas.

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Ways to avoid travel cooties

Today's Annoyance: Poor hygiene
Mantra of the Day: I make every effort to be clean and neat.

While I hardly consider myself a germaphobe, I take great issue with people who bring their slovenly habits into shared spaces. When I think of having to spend hours on end, cooped up in an airplane or a train, with people coughing and sneezing (often without covering their mouths), unbathed (seemingly for days), infected with head lice and heavenly only knows what other cooties, it makes me nauseous.

I can just hear some of my European friends now: "You Americans are such germ freaks!" In response, I have yet to don a surgical mask while traveling. For those of you who want to avoid travel cooties, here are just a few quick tips:

1. Hand sanitizer is not intended to replace soap and water but it's cool to have in a pinch. A few brands: CleanWell, Germ-X, Jao and Purell.

2. I previously mentioned that it's a good idea to pack flip flops when you travel. I often use them to walk around in my hotel room. Another option is Zinetic Pocket Slippers. Much like flip flops, these can be used to walk to the lavatory during your flight or around the hotel pool.

3. One place where flip flops and pocket slippers won't work is airport security. If you cringe at the thought of walking through this area in your bare feet, try PlaneWrap Disposable Slippers (which you can buy at Target or Amazon.com) or My Travel Feet.

4. Even if you travel first-class and stay at a five-star hotel, while you're touring through a city, you just may find yourself in need of tissue or wipes. I always keep a pocket-sized pack of Kleenex in my purse and when I travel, I often take a purse-sized pack of Wet Ones or Kleenex Splash 'N Go Hand and Face wipes. They're great for a quick clean up or if you find a place lacking toilet paper.

If you are, in fact, a tried-and-true hygiene fanatic, there are lots of other travel products just for your needs, including airplane seat covers and disposable sheets and pillowcases. Whatever floats your boat! Travel well, my friends.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]

Monday, July 20, 2009

Balanzza Giveaway Winner!

Karen, you're the winner of the Balanzza Digital Luggage Scale! Random.org selected #16 out of a total 26 blog and Twitter contestants.

Thanks to Balanzza for partnering with Global Jet Set Media, Inc. for my current promotion! And thanks to everyone for sharing your tweets and luggage nightmares.

Karen, don't forget to send your full name & street address to ava @ avapierce dot com by Thursday, July 23 (11:59 p.m. ET). Rest assured that your contact info will not be sold or used for any other purposes than to send you your prize.

Stay posted for more rants, raves, jet set tips and giveaways!!

Peace and love,

JSTD: Door stop insurance

If you're traveling alone, pack a door stopper in your suitcase to wedge under the door at night. It is just an extra insurance policy against anyone with bad intentions who might try to enter your room.

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