*

You are pregnant…congratulations!  Like all moms, I’m sure you want to do everything possible to make sure that your baby is healthy, and going green during your pregnancy is a great way to ensure this.  Here are 6 green living tips that will make a big difference in your life and your pregnancy.  As of the writing of this article, I myself am almost 5-months pregnant and I feel great.  Hopefully my tips will help you feel great too and help ensure that your baby is as healthy and happy as possible!

1. Eat green! You should be eating green both literally and figuratively.  Get as many organic, whole foods into your diet as possible (whole foods mean foods that are as close to their natural state as possible.)  Try and cut out any calories that are not filled with nutrients as they will not nourish the baby but WILL lead to excess weight gain.  Eating healthy is probably the single most important thing you can do for your baby while you are pregnant.[1] It’s also supposed to be helpful in mitigating some of the “symptoms” of pregnancy.  From my own personal experience (again, I’m just a sample of one), I have had no issues with nausea or cravings, no “pregnancy constipation” (which is caused by our digestion slowing down to squeeze the most nutrients out of our food) and my weight gain has been slow and steady.  Also, when it comes to eating green you should literally be eating green foods.  Folic acid, which is very important for avoiding certain birth defects, is easily found in most green vegetables.[2] I can tell you from personal experience, I’m a mostly-raw vegetarian, and when I had my blood tested my folic acid was very high.  In fact, all of my blood results were very good except for Vitamin D, which brings me to point #2.
2. Check your Vitamin D. When you first get pregnant your doctor will do a blood work-up on you.  Be sure to ask her if your work-up includes a test for Vitamin D also known as “the sunshine vitamin.”  The studies on Vitamin D deficiency are pretty new (about 3-years old) but compelling and especially important for a developing baby.  Vitamin D is actually more of a hormone than a vitamin and its deficiency has been linked to osteoporosis, depression, heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, parathyroid problems, immune function and even weight loss.[3] Even though I live in sunny Los Angeles and walk my dog for 20-minutes every day, my Vitamin D test came back severely deficient.  There is talk about raising the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin D, but one thing to keep in mind is that if you are dark-skinned, as I am, than you need even more sunshine since the melanin in our skin blocks the UVB rays that synthesize Vitamin D from sunlight.  There are also Vitamin D supplements that you can take orally as well.  Honestly, EVERYONE should be tested for Vitamin D deficiency.  You’ll probably be hearing more and more about this as doctors are just now starting to realize how important Vitamin D is for our bodies.  After giving me my test results my doctor had himself tested and was shocked at how low his own Vitamin D was. 
3. Forget registering for your baby shower…get hand-me-downs! Kids grow quickly, in fact; they grow so quickly that many of the products they used can be passed down to many other children.  My goal is to not buy anything new except for whatever fabrics or paints I may need for the baby’s room and maybe the occasional “special event” outfit (those holiday clothes are super cute!)  As soon as my husband and I decided to get pregnant we started spreading the word that we would take any hand-me-downs that were 1) not subject to recalls, 2) in good condition and 3) made out of natural materials (except for car seats and strollers.)  So far we have gotten 2 cribs (one is for my parent’s house who live very near by), an organic crib mattress, lots of cotton bedding, a solid wood rocking horse, a solid wood high chair, a solid wood rocking chair, a glider, 3 car seats, 2 strollers, lots of books and a changing table.  We haven’t received any clothes yet because we don’t know the sex of the baby, but there is lots of that on the way too.  Ask and you shall receive, it’s amazing!
4. Use green paints in the baby’s room. Most people end up painting their baby’s room.  If you do, be sure to look for paints that are “no-VOC” or even all natural paints like Old Fashioned Milk Paint, made with lime and milk protein.  These paints will not “off-gas” into the baby’s room creating a better breathing environment for your child.  This is especially important for newborns since their lungs are the last thing to develop and will continue to grow as they grow[4].  AFM Safecoat and Yolo Colorhouse and excellent no-VOC paints that cost approximately $50/a gallon which is the same as other “high-end” paints.
5. Eliminate chemicals from your life. One of the most dangerous places in most homes is that cabinet under the kitchen sink with all the cleaning products.  Make an effort to eliminate chemicals as much as possible from your life.  Switch to earth and people friendly cleaners like baking soda and white vinegar or to brands such as Bi-o-kleen, Bon Ami and Begley’s Best to name a few.  I try to buy locally so most of the brands I mention are West Coast based.  If you are on the East Coast then Seventh Generation is an excellent resource for you.  If a product smells toxic to you, it probably is toxic, and you might as well get rid of this stuff before the baby is born!  Products to definitely get rid of include anything with heavy perfumes (often these masks dangerous chemicals like as phthalates), and anything with chlorine and ammonia in them.  Also, be sure to switch to safer insecticides and pesticides such as boric acid and neem oil for around your house and in your garden.
6. Exercise. Exercise is great for building and maintaining muscle tone and stamina, for helping to moderate pregnancy weight gain and for helping to improve your mood among other things.[5] It can also help with constipation brought on by pregnancy![6] Regular exercise, along with a good diet, is said to help with many of the “symptoms” of early pregnancy, and from my own experience, except for occasional fatigue I have had NO pregnancy symptoms.  Now, if you weren’t a marathoner before your pregnancy, now is definitely not the time to start training for one, but getting regular movement is very important for your pregnancy. Maintaining your stamina is especially important if you are going to go for natural child birth (which I am and will be sure to write about when it happens) since labor can be a very tiring experience and you want to be sure you have reserves of strength so that when your midwife or doctor says “you can start pushing” you still have the energy to push.  Walking is a great, low-impact exercise.  My midwife advised me to get up to 3-miles a day (about an hour of vigorous walking) if I could.  At this point in my pregnancy I have been able to maintain my pre-pregnancy exercise regimen of yoga, weights, walking and elliptical training with no modifications.

Remember, every person and every pregnancy is different, so be sure to consult your medical professional before making changes to your diet and/or exercise regimes.  The information in this article should not be taken as medical advice.

Alegre Ramos is a LEED AP interior designer and green living expert based in the San Fernando Valley.  Her store, Green and Greener, is located in Valley Village and online at http://green-and-greener.com.  Stay up to date on important green info by signing-up for her Twitter feed http://twitter.com/greenandgreener.  Copyright Green and Greener 2010.  All rights reserved.

[2] http://vitamins.lovetoknow.com/Foods_High_in_Folic_Acid

[3] http://www.womentowomen.com/healthynutrition/vitamind.aspx

[4] http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/lungs/bpd.html#

[5] http://www.babycenter.com/0_seven-great-benefits-of-pregnancy-exercise_7864.bc

[6] http://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-body/fitness/pregnancy-exercise/?page=2

R2: RESEARCH: which means that once you’ve decided you really need to buy something, do the research to buy the “greenest” option out there. Questions you should ask include: is the product made with recycling in mind, did the company who made it pay a fair wage in its manufacturing, is the product non-toxic, where was it made and can I get it more locally? Do your homework. This step will also help with step R1: reducing consumption because sometimes you might find that there is no green option out there and maybe that means you shouldn’t buy the product at all.

R3: RUN IT INTO THE GROUND: once you’ve decided to buy something, use it until it falls apart!  I rarely buy something that I don’t plan on hanging onto for 10+ years.  You don’t have to be that extreme, but if you buy something that you need and/or like that is a quality product, why not make the most of it?  It’s better for the environment (by minimizing demands on raw materials and on energy use for production) and it’s HEAVEN to your pocket book.

R4: REUSE/REPURPOSE/REPAIR/RETURN: traditionally the second R was “reuse” which means to continue to give a product life beyond it’s perhaps short planned life, however, we felt that was a little narrow. So for instance, you are REUSING a plastic water bottle by refilling it with water a second time. However, you could also REPURPOSE it by using it as a bird feeder. Also, once something has broken you can make it useful again by REPAIRING it.  The fourth option RETURN is something that was very popular back in the day which is to RETURN the product to where it came so it may be reused (for instance: glass milk bottles.) The benefits of RETURNING over RECYCLING is that the product doesn’t need to undergo an energy intensive remanufacturing (aka: recycling) process to be useful again.  REPURPOSING can also be really fun in that it encourages you to look creatively at the resources you have.  For instance, when we remodeled Green and Greener we took the old vinyl blinds from the previous tenants and applied them to the walls as a decorative finish and we turned old wine crates into speakers.

R5: RECYCLE: Only once you have exhausted the options above do we move on to recycling, which has gotten a disproportional amount of the 3R attention considering it is the lowest ranking of them.  Recycling means: to take an object and use energy and resources in order to turn it back into raw materials for further manufacturing.  While it’s better than throwing an item away, it still requires a lot of transportation and energy, so it’s not the cure all many believe.  Almost anything CAN be recycled, the real question is: is it valuable enough that someone is actually doing it?  Use the web to find out the what/where/how of recycling.  Two good resource are the National Recycling Coalition’s site: http://www.nrc-recycle.org/localresources.aspx and LIME’s guide to “How to Recycle Everything:” http://www.lime.com/features/limes_guide_to_recycling

R6: RESPONSIBLE DISPOSAL: Once you’ve done everything above, you might still have some items to dispose of and the key is to do this responsibly. Remember that fruit, vegetable and yard waste doesn’t have to be thrown away; it can be composted (which is step R3.)  Most metal, paper, plastic and glass can be easily recycled locally (step R4.)  Other traditionally “trash” items have green alternatives such as biodegradable cellulose sponges instead of the synthetic variety and rechargeable batteries instead of single use.  Items such as compact fluorescent light bulbs, single use batteries, prescription drugs, electronics and paint thinner are just some of the “household hazardous waste” (HHW) that needs to be disposed of properly in order to not contaminate the land and water in your area.  It only takes very little mercury or leads to do real harm to ground water and you’d be surprised at how often these two metals show up in products!  Check with your city’s waste pick-up for HHW drop-off locations in your area.  Often, living a greener life means you will have fewer HHW items because you will have reduced your consumption of these items to begin with.

With a little practice the 6R’s will become second nature to you and will keep you and the planet healthier and wealthier.  Don’t feel overwhelmed by the information, true change comes with time.  The key is to do a little bit now and to grow from there.  Remember, that big change comes from lots of people making little changes.  So make your little change today!

*****

Alegre Ramos is a LEED AP interior designer and green living expert based in the San Fernando Valley.  Her store, Green and Greener, is located in Valley Village and online at http://green-and-greener.com.  Stay up to date on important green info by signing-up for her Twitter feed http://twitter.com/greenandgreener.  Copyright Green and Greener 2010.  All rights reserved.

Cure in the Canyons

Cure In The Canyons III, the luxury-fest for Breast Cancer research, returns on Sunday, October 4th from 11am-4pm at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village to raise funds for innovative medical and clinical Breast Cancer research. Set between sequoia trees and cascading waterfalls Sunday afternoon at the Four Seasons will be filled with the best of lifestyle, beauty, wellness, epicurean and fashion and top exclusive high-end luxury trendsetters, all donating their time and products to fund breast cancer research.

For today’s economy the price of $60 ticket may seem steep, but not so when it includes a gift bag valued at over $500 upon departure. The first 250 guests to arrive by carpool will also receive a special gift.  Personally speaking, I loooove goodie bags!  No matter what’s inside, I look forward to unwrapping, unveiling, untying, undressing…. Yes!  Goodie bags rule, and this event looks worth the trip out to Westlake Village.

Cure in the Canyons honors breast cancer survivors and those undergoing treatment with a very special celebrity hosted Tea Party sponsored by Revolution Tea.  What better way to feel better?  How about the experience of over $1,000 worth of extraordinary free treatments, samples and gourmet delights, strolling through 28 cabanas on six breathtaking acres?  There are luxurious free products to enjoy including, spa and beauty treatments with Four Seasons Thai massage, skyn ICELAND, Calidora Skin Clinic, California Health & Longevity Institute acupuncture, OPI manicures, Napoleon Perdis and Jane Iredale fall makeovers, with a special guest appearance by Billy and Melissa Yamaguchi of Yamaguchi Spa and Salon who will conduct Feng Shui beauty seminars while his dedicated style experts take fall glamour to the next divine level.

And for that special gentleman in your life, The Club Car, a luxurious Men’s Ultra Lounge offers mini-spa treatments, SINGHA Premium Beer, extra spicy salsa and hors d’oeuvres, Harley Davidson and a luxury skin care line just for our gentlemen guests while they peruse three new 2010 Lexus Luxury Hybrids or take one out for a quick spin.

Five-star gourmet delights from New Zealand Natural Ice Cream, Hamptons, Onyx, Atmospheric Events, and Four Seasons Executive Chef Mario Alcocer add to the day’s epicurean experience with wine and spirit tastings provided by Korbel and ONEHOPE Wine.

As if all this was not enough, guests also enjoy an over-the-top 100+ item silent auction featuring fighter-pilot training, Caribbean yacht charters for seven of your closest friends, sports memorabilia and fabulous jewels.  Competing for your attention is an extraordinary dance performance by the New York City quartet as live Jazz and Rumba Flamenco trios entertain guests throughout the day.  Attendees are asked to arrive early to take advantage of as many product demonstrations and services as possible.

Event Celebrity Co-Chairs are actress/TV personalities, Shannon Tweed, and daughter Sophie Tweed Simmons (stars of A&E’s Gene Simmons Family Jewels). Celebrity Co-hosts for “Cure in the Canyons” Thomas Calabro (Melrose Place), Jack Wagner (The Bold and The Beautiful), Tichina Arnold (Everybody Hates Chris), Mark DeCarlo (Taste of America with Mark DeCarlo), Ivan Sergei (The Break-Up) actresses Lorraine Toussaint (co-star of TNT’s Saving Grace), CCH Pounder (Warehouse 13), Catherine Dent (The Shield), Aaron D. Spears (The Bold and The Beautiful), Adrienne Franz (Y&R), Ashley Jones(Bold and the Beautiful/True Blood), Brenda Song (Disney’s Suite Life of Zack and Cody), Claudia Jordan (Celebrity Apprentice), Jimmy Jean-Louis (Heroes), Lesley-Anne Down (The Bold and The Beautiful), Marcellus Wiley(ESPN), Shawn Hlookoff (Singer/Songwriter), Stacy Heidi (Y&R), Vanessa Marano (Y&R), Winsor Harman(The Bold and The Beautiful), Willie Macc (comedian/actor) and more. Many of Los Angeles’ prominent residents, as well as several personalities whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer, are expected to attend.

Actress Lorraine Toussaint explains why research is so important; “I walked through chemo with a friend of mine and saw the devastating effects it had on her. It was almost like the treatment was worse than the disease. We’ve got to do better. The time for treatment is over. It’s time for a cure.”
Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village is located at 2 Dole Drive, Westlake Village, CA 91362. Tickets are on sale now and available at www.cureinthecanyons.com. Guests attending “Cure In The Canyons” should plan on spending the entire day at the festival to enjoy all activities and complimentary services.

“Cure In The Canyons” is a prequel event to “Run 4 Her Life” 5k/ 10k www.run4herlife.com,” on Sunday, October 18 at The Americana at Brand in Glendale, CA.
For further information on “Cure in the Canyons” and “Run 4 Her Life” go to www.cureinthecanyons.com and www.run4herlife.com

Run 4 Her Life 5k / 10k for Breast Cancer Research will take place on Sunday, October 18, 2009 at 8:00 a.m. and feature a live musical performance by GRAMMY® award-winning recording artist and “Dancing With The Stars” contestant, Mýa. Registration fee is $35 in advance and $45 day of and includes a custom designed Affliction/Run 4 Her Life t-shirt ($82 value), gift bag and all event festivities, including entrance to the concert.  Team and Groups are also encouraged to participate.  Please visit www.Run4HerLife.com for additional details and to register.

The Americana at Brand, located in the heart of downtown Glendale, will offer entrants and guests a variety of live entertainment, expo and post-event party. In addition to the competitive 5k / 10k races the event also offers a 5k Family Fun Run / Walk. “Caruso Affiliated is honored to support this inaugural event and its critical mission of funding for breast cancer research. Our team is working hard to ensure that it also will be a delightful day for the entire family,” said Rick Caruso, president and CEO, Caruso Affiliated.

To get in shape for the October 2009 Race, lululemon athletica Glendale will conduct complimentary Sunday morning fitness classes at The Americana at Brand designed to improve your running while offering tips, motivation and camaraderie.  Located on two acres in downtown Glendale, The Americana at Brand is LAs newest shopping and dining destination developed by Caruso Affiliated. With residences built atop the shops and restaurants, race entrants will have a built in audience and cheering section at the start and finish lines.

Funds raised will support local California research at USC/Norris Lee Breast Center, USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Michael Press, MD. PhD. and National Research. Grants are awarded as deemed by our Medical Advisory Board to have the most significance in the etiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer.

“We are grateful to be a part of this event to raise funds for breast cancer research,” said Michael Press, M.D., Ph.D., professor of pathology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and the Harold E. Lee Chair for Cancer Research at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. “As we learn more about the molecular and genetic causes of breast cancer, we are positioned to attack this deadly disease at its origin and to prevent its development in thousands of women.”

Run 4 Her Life is green, breaking new ground with the worlds-first Eco-friendly Running Bib. The focus of Karin Purvis, Race Director, and Founder of ‘Run 4 Her Life’ and ‘Cure in the Canyons’ is to facilitate a healthy, eco-friendly race, allowing runners to participate in a “green” event. As a tribute to breast cancer research, emediagroup is providing bib numbers made from seed paper, which entrants can plant after the event and will bloom Black-Eyed Susan’s creating a lasting memory.  By combining breast cancer research awareness and environmentally friendly materials, emediagroup is proud to participate in this unique event.

Run 4 Her Life will feature live musical performances by Mýa, The Quiet, Lili Haydn, Jordan Johnson, and Margie Hauser and an interactive family friendly expo with 15 cabanas including Glendale Hospital offering orthopedic therapy consultations, and Katsuya and ONEHOPE Wine who will be hosting the VIP celebrity lounge.  The Nesquik Bunny will be greeting runners at the expo and plans to run the 5k as well!

Grammy Award® winning multi-platinum artist Mýa, became a star at the age of 18 with her eponymous debut album which yielded three Top-10 singles. In addition to releasing five full length albums, one of which went platinum and another, gold, she tangoed her way into our hearts in the acclaimed film Chicago. Mýa is currently a popular contestant on the hit TV show “Dancing With The Stars”!

As a philanthropist, Mýa continues to devote her time and resources to various causes. From 1998 to 2001, she became the spokesperson for Secret to Self Esteem. In 2005, Mýa founded TMATF: The Mya Arts & Tech Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing disadvantaged youth growth and opportunity through arts & technology education, where she serves as both executive director and teacher. Mýa is also an advocate of breast cancer as her mother is a 10 year survivor. In 2006 & 2007 she collaborated with the Lifetime Television Network in the Stop Breast Cancer for Life campaign, recording “My Bra” a song sold on iTunes donating 100% of proceeds to breast cancer

research.

Sponsors include Affliction, ONEHOPE Wine, lululemon, Luna Bars, Katsuya, Paul Mitchell, Icy Hot, Gold Bond, Lange Productions, Alacer, Pop Chips, Power Bars, Powerade, Glaceau Smart Water, Emergen- C, Nesquik, Queasy Pops, Capco Labs Foot Cream, Hypoxy and Dole.

EVENT: First Annual Run 4 Her Life 5k / 10k for Breast Cancer Research

DATE/ TIME: Sunday, October 18, 2009

7:00 a.m.     On-Site Registration Opens

8:00 a.m.     Opening Ceremonies and Warm-Up

8:15 a.m.     Lili Haydn           www.myspace.com/lilihaydn

8:30 a.m.     5k

9:00 a.m.     10k

10:00 a.m.   The Quiet            www.myspace.com/thequiet

11:10 a.m.   Margie Hauser     www.margiehauser.com

11:20 a.m.   Jordan Johnson    www.myspace.com/jordanjohnson

11:30 a.m.   Mýa                    www.myamya.com

WHAT:

5k / 10k Run and 5k Family Fun Run / Walk benefitting Breast Cancer  Research  featuring live musical performance by GRAMMY award winning recording artist and “Dancing With The Stars” contestant, Mýa.

LOCATION:

The Americana at Brand

889 Americana Way  Glendale, CA 91204   818.637.8982

(Bounded by Central Avenue, Colorado Street and Brand Blvd.)

FEE:

$35 in advance; $45 day of

Where do fabulous divas play? Everywhere! And where do they get ready to play? At Face to Face LA! Rumor has it that golden bunny Kendra Wilkinson loves her spa days! She spent yesterday at this fantastic facial space filled with tanning, manicures, pedicures, facials and massages.

According to eonline.com: Kendra said “the bride should be really spoiled and be treated like a queen, and that’s how I’m feeling right now!” Bridesmaid Brittany Binger is worried about fitting into her dress after all the desserts and champagne…but not enough to skip the sweets! “We’re all just eating. I don’t care!” she said.

Kendra’s nuptials are scheduled for this weekend at the infamous Playboy mansion. The fabulous facials from Face to Face LA Salon will surely bring out her inner glow on this important day. And while everyone will stare and wonder how Kendra does it, this diva’s secret is safe with us.

For a special discount at Face to Face LA, mention the code: TRAVELINGDIVA.COM  and receive a true diva’s treatment from either Marianne or Robert.

Face to Face LA

www.facetofacela.com
11331 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 2a
Studio City, California, 91604
818.505.0107

Let’s face it; travel and tourism have a big impact on the environment. As responsible travelers we have to acknowledge the toll that traveling exerts on the environment and look for ways to offset this impact.

Flying
The main offender to the environment when we travel is our flight to Europe. For example, my flight from DFW (Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport) to CDG (Charles De Gaul Airport in Paris) will release 1.79 tons of carbon dioxide into the air over a distance of 9,930 miles according to CarbonFund.org. Once you take into account radiative forcing the effect increases to a release of 4.83 tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere that can contribute to global warming. Almost makes me not want to step on a plane again…almost, but I’m not willing to give up traveling if there are other ways to alleviate the environmental impact.

One simple tactic is to always fly direct. This is the most efficient way to travel and you won’t contribute to any excess emissions and you personally will not have to deal with another round of deplaning and boarding.

Airlines are becoming increasingly aware of this impact and are also looking for ways to lessen their effect on the environment. When booking your trip to Europe research the social responsibility of the airline you plan to use and support those airlines that have put environmentally positive initiatives into place.

British Airways, Continental Airlines, Lufthansa, and Virgin Atlantic are a few of the airlines that are increasing aircraft efficiency (thus reducing emissions), participating in carbon trading, as well as introducing in-flight recycling and opportunities to purchase carbon offsets.

The Open Skies agreement between the European Union and the United States will also affect the environmental policies of airlines flying to Europe. The Open Skies agreement has deregulated many of the flights between Europe and the US, resulting in more flights to Europe.

However, in the second phase of this agreement the EU is requiring US based airlines flying to Europe to participate in the same emissions trading scheme that European based carriers pay. So US based carriers flying to Europe may also soon have to purchase “carbon credits” to offset the impact of the flight.

Purchase Carbon Offsets
Until carbon credits are standard policy for airlines it is possible for individuals to purchase carbon offsets on their own to remedy some of our impact when flying. There are various sites where you can use a carbon calculator to calculate the “carbon cost” of a flight and purchase an offset to that cost.

If I purchased an offset for my proposed flight to Europe that I mentioned earlier it would be $26.54 and this would help contribute to causes and projects that support carbon reduction (such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and reforestation projects).

Walk or Use Public Transportation
Fortunately, once you get to Europe there is infrastructure in place in many European cities that make it easy to lessen the impact we have as travelers.

For starters, most European cities are built around a pedestrian culture so walking everywhere is easy and the best way to take in the sites and smells of a city.

When waking isn’t possible, public transportation in the form of buses, trams, and metros can help you easily navigate a city without relying on taxis. Renting a bike in some cities, such as Amsterdam and Paris (Velib) is also another option. If a taxi/shuttle has to be used, some companies can offer a Prius as an option.

Trains instead of Planes
With the advent of bargain basement airfares within Europe with such carriers as EasyJet and Ryanair it is tempting to take advantage but most of those trips can easily be taken by train as well. The European Rail system is efficient and comfortable for covering longer distances.

The Eurostar High Speed train that runs from London to Paris is completely carbon neutral, so no guilt about “crossing the pond”. It releases 10 times less carbon dioxide than flying to the same destination.

New technology is constantly being developed as well. France also has one of the first “hybrid” trains and has ordered 144 more.

Stay Put
Concentrating your travels efforts to one region is another simple option. This cuts down on long distance train rides altogether and allows you to fully explore and get to know a region.

Eat Local
Most European cuisine makes brilliant use of local ingredients and produce and serving what is in season. Take advantage of this whenever possible and choose restaurants that have a reputation for fresh, local food. By taking advantage of produce available locally these establishments minimize their effect on the environment by having to rely less on ingredients that have been delivered great distances.

I hate to have to even mention it but if I must, at all costs avoid “fast food chains” and chains in general as they will most likely not be using fresh, local ingredients.

Many cities have markets where it is easy to assemble a fine meal with locally/regionally produced items. Cheese, some sort of cured meat, fruit, a crusty loaf of bread, and wine is an easy meal to pull together using local ingredients.

***Content taken fron Travelista.com

When you are in Washington DC don’t leave the city without a stop at the hip artist collective DEKKA.  It’s a cool, co-op style space located in the heart of the U Street Corridor.  The only one of it’s kind in DC, DEKKA is a unique boutique that showcases dozens of local and international artists and designers whose mediums include music, fashion, jewelry and a range of visual arts.   It’s a treat for the senses that will leave you completely smitten.

Located on the second floor, DEKKA is a fabulous diva’s paradise, offering two stories of gorgeous one-of-a-kind clothes, original jewelry and incredibly affordable art.  The music on the indoor/outdoor system could be anything from Brazilian, to Electronic to Urban beats, and you can even explore underground music at their listening station.  The best part about the DEKKA experience is that it’s a co-op run by the artists, for the artists, so you are likely to run into any of them on any given day of the week.  They are there to answer any questions you have and maybe even custom design a piece for you.

The store is the creation of artist, Josh Titkin, and his wife Liciana Titkin, a clothing designer who fashioned the store after similar stores in her native Argentina.  They are not just the founders but their work is also on display.  Josh Titkin’s paintings on vinyl records are a must–see, and Luciana Titkin’s line YOSOY is chic and sleek with a European edge that will make you swoon.   Even the name is fabulous!  YOSOY comes from the Spanish “Yo soy” meaning “I am,” (a great diva mantra).  Other artists that are not to be missed are photographer Viet Chu, whose travel inspired works will jump start your imagination and jewelry designer Gabriela Huber, whose Peruvian silver jewelry collection “Kamari” is a show stopping stunner.

If you happen to be in the city on the first Saturday of the month, don’t miss the cocktail party where they feature an artist, a musician, a jewelry designer and a fashion designer for a fabulous soiree including interactive video and funky lights.  For added excitement, check out the DEKKA’s schedule for days like the third Thursday of the month when they have Trunk Shows!  That’s right divas, trunk shows, where the designers have hidden goodies on display and offer excellent discounts!  DEKKA is a true diva’s must see.

http://www.dcafam.com/

DEKKA
1338 U St. NW 2nd floor
Washington, DC 20009

AS HEARD ON MARK'S RADIO SEGMENTS: 

Chicago Travel Tips:
(Please click on links to be directed to site)

 From Chicago (not 3-hour drive but warm):

Los Cabos beach escapes with $400 off
http://www.shermanstravel.com/editor_review/1099869
Direct flights to San Jose del Cabo from Chicago (American, Mexicana;
about 4.5 hours)

Las Vegas
$85+: Book 2 nights, get 3rd free at MGM Grand
Through winter; MGM Grand

$343+: Wynn Las Vegas 3-nt vacation with flight
CLICK HERE

Palm Springs Travel Tips:

Big Bear -- Midweek lift & lodging packages from $69 pp/nt
http://bigbear.com/midweekpackages/

Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa -- new luxury resort
Bed & breakfast weekend rates from $176
or
Midweek ski package from $184 for overnight with 2 lift tickets at
Snow Valley & pres ski appetizer and cocktails at the resort's BIN189.

$199/nt+: Romantic LA weekend w/breakfast in bed at Kyoto Grand
CLICK HERE

TEMECULA WINE COUNTRY for Valentine's Day
February 13th and 14th  2009
The Castle Bed & breakfast Estate in the heart of Temecula
Valleys Wine County

Mention Traveling Diva and you get a 10% discount!

Join us for a romantic wine country escape and stay over night in a
private suite, or just come for dinner and music.
Dinner is served promptly at 7pm!

$65    4 course dinner served with local wines... including Wiens
Family Cellars award winning sparkling wine
(all inclusive), Including Live Music from our in house jazz pianist.

Dinner Menu
Handmade Four Fontina Cheese Ravioli  in basil pesto
Prime all natural Filet in Leonesse Cellars port & mission fig reduction
served with gruyere potatoes & candied root vegetables
Red Leaf (the love) lettuce tossed with locally made goat feta,
sauteed dried cherries & pecans
Dessert-  chocolate, chocolate, chocolate

Dinner is prepared by Delyte's an award winning fine foods catering
company.  Everything is made from scratch with local, organic ingredients that
are pulled from the ground  within 24 hours of eating!
We support Slow Food & our champions of our small sustainable farmers!
For private Dinner's in your room-  pricing begins at  $300,
including your room, wine, dinner & breakfast the next morning

Please call for reservations 951.699.3940
 or click here to check out our article on www.TravelingDiva.com

PSADENA -

Mojito's Restaurant and Rum Bar for the best Cuban food in and around Los Angeles.
http://www.mojitosrestaurant.com/

SAN DIEGO
-theater (the Old Globe has a great series, the La Jolla Playhouse is
one of West Coast's top stages, and "Broadway San Diego" brings the
big hits to town)

-military/naval aspect (the Maritime Museum recently added a new
submarine to its exhibition fleet in December)

-whale watching season extends through mid-March

-golf (the Buick Invitational Golf Tournament returns to Torrey Pines
Golf Course in La Jolla with top players from the PGA Tour from Feb 2-8)
GREEN TRAVEL:

EnvironmentallyFriendlyHotels.com

MONEY SAVING TRAVEL TIP OF THE DAY:
Try departing on a Tuesday or Wednesday and returning on a Saturday.
These less-traveled days often score the best deals.

AIRFARE DEALS:

When you can book your travel at the last minute:
http://www.lastminutetravel.com
Kayak.com

When you want to plan ahead:
Farecast.com
AirfareWatchdog.com

HOTEL DEALS:
Priceline.com  two ways to buy lock in a good low price, try and
haggle for a GREAT low price
Bedandbreakfast.com
For good last minute bargains on international travel  LateRooms.com

House Exchange: Swap houses with someone who's ready to LEAVE where
you want to BE:
http://www.homeexchange.com/
http://www.homexchangevacation.com
http://www.homelink-usa.com
http://www.homeaway.com

Package Tours:

Singlestravelinternational.com

Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, Nevis, West Indies
Week-long package includes:
7 nights accommodation in a beautifully renovated plantation cottage
Full daily ocean-side breakfast at Coconuts
Daily afternoon tea at the Great House
Nightly multi-course gourmet dinner at the Great House
Rates* per couple for 7 nights (including FREE Night):
Rates start at $3750 for 7 nights in a Superior Room.
Available for vacation arrivals after January 3 with
departures no later than February 28, 2009.
1-800-742-6008 for information and reservations.

(San Marcos, California) – In recent years, the uniqueness and beauty of
bamboo cutting boards have prompted many consumers to take notice and bring
them into their kitchens. But now a new development in the Totally Bamboo
line is “shaping up” to raise that interest to an even higher level of
innovation. Totally Bamboo’s Tropical Series Cutting & Serving Boards sport
a creative, fun tropical in-lay design on shapes like surf boards,
pineapples and Ukuleles.  These fanciful designs are great for parties or
everyday use.

Bamboo products in the Totally Bamboo line are not only beautiful, they are
durable and long-lasting as well. Bamboo is a renewable resource and is
harder than traditional hardwoods. Designed with earth friendly living in
mind, the Tropical series of cutting boards are made from organically
cultivated bamboo and is free from formaldehyde adhesives, dyes or stains.

Prices for the Tropical line range from $12.99 – $24.99 for these unique

boards and are available at www.totallybamboo.com

Media/PR Contact: Todd Brabender/Spread The News PR – (785) 842-8909  todd@spreadthenewspr.com

Coming down to the South Bay I expected everything green to be a little.. well.. bland… Not so the case with the hottest nail salon there!  Mani Pedi Cutie is an eco-friendly salon, filled with amazing people that greet you with a smile, cucumber mint water, and meditation rocks (of course I picked ‘Passion’).  The beach babe pedicure is a diva’s dream!  If you’d like to celebrate your birthday there, the restaurants around will cater and you and your fabulous friends can enjoy a bottle of your favorite wine while you are being pampered.  Since I’ve found them, I will make up any excuse to go there and feel girlie again!  Mani Pedi Cutie gets this diva’s seal of approval.  ;)

PS:  I always make sure to get there around 5:30pm for my complimentary glass of wine.

MANI PEDI CUTIE
507 Pier Ave.
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
T 310-376-9988
F 310-376-9981

W www.manipedicutie.com E info@manipedicutie.com

HOURS
Tuesday thru Friday 10am-7ish
Saturday 10-7ish
Sunday 10-5
Closed on Mondays. Please book an Appointment!