Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow…or not! A trip to Shoppers Drug Mart yesterday made it clear that it’s travel season in Canada, and quite a few seem to have had enough of the snow. With the sunscreen aisle packed and three types of aloe vera sold out, getting prepared may not be as easy as it seems. So, with the snow still falling, and no winter warmth in sight, here are two quick tips on how to get prepared as quickly and painlessly as possible.
1. Bathing suits: It seems a lot of stores already have quite a large selection of bathing suits but having just come in, most are still full price - aka expensive. For the frugal vacationer looking to save, Victoria’s Secret has some amazing deals. Their site, Victoriassecret.com has a clearance section ($20 and under) where bathing suits are going for as little as $6. There is a magnitude of options and in-stock items usually deliver within two weeks (even to Canada). Though our American counterparts save on shipping and handling, $60 Cdn can get four full bikinis sent right to your door…a luxury very easy to get used to! The sizing chart is more accurate than a lot of other online retailers, and the return/exchange policy ensures you don’t get stuck with any items you may not want to keep.
Note - If your timing is tight be sure to only order items listed as in-stock because users have complained of huge mix ups when items are sold out.
2. Dress Code: Some resorts, while laid back on most accounts, have a few stipulations about what can be worn where. Whether you plan on traveling to local communities off the resort, visiting schools, or dining, be sure you're prepared for anything.
Those traveling with male counterparts, be sure to check ahead to see if pants are mandatory while dining. Most buffet style set ups will not require anything formal, while most a la carte restaurants (those where reservations are necessary) ask for pants, if not a jacket, be worn while in the establishment.
Women should be aware that shoulders and knees may need to be covered in certain public places (churches, government offices) or also while dining. Whether you bring along a shawl, light sweater or a few blouses to throw over top, be sure to pack a few items that will carry over with a different outfits. There's nothing more embarrassing and frustrating than being denied entrance to a place you've paid money to see because of a simple clothing error.
For men, khakis and linen pants are probably the best bet as they tend to be made in lighter fabrics which are great for packing and traveling in hot climates. Women can opt for pashminas, walking shorts, shawls or light ponchos to ensure they have no problems throughout their stay.
