TBMD

Inquiring minds wanted to know (hi Yesenia and Anon!) what I packed for my 2.5 week European spring vacation, so maybe others would find this helpful as well.

What I had in mind was to be practical and pack as efficiently as possible, while being somewhat-stylish.

1) I packed light because dragging our luggage in and around 4 different cities is not fun. We didn't rely on cabs because most of the hotels we stayed in were within walking distance/easily accessible from transportation hubs. I was able to fit everything into one carry-on sized suitcase (rolled items to reduce wrinkles and save space) and a Longchamp Le Pliage large tote. I also stored a folded tote in one of the pocket compartments of my suitcase, just in case I needed extra storage on my return flight home. My one suitcase worked out for the best because we often had to go up and down flights of stairs (no elevators/escalators around.)

2) To dress appropriately for the weather. I learned my lesson the last time I went to Japan in December and had only packed a leather jacket and a sweatshirt as the heaviest layers (face palms.) From my research, I was prepared for colder weather in England and France, but warmer weather in Italy. Expected May temperatures ranged from 55-80 degrees Fahrenheit across those three countries. There was also a high probability for rainy days.

- Cold weather days: sweaters, sweatshirt, long-sleeve tops, jeans, scarf. I avoided packing duplicate items in the same colors (ie: didn't pack two pairs of blue jeans), figuring I wouldn't have a problem re-wearing items.

- Warm weather days: t-shirts, shorts, skirt, dress, flip-flops. As much as I love light-colored bottoms, I knew it would be hard for me to keep them clean for a long duration, so I stuck to dark colors. One pair of shorts and one skirt ended up being sufficient. I packed three t-shirts because they're great layering pieces under long-sleeves or would work as standalone tops on warmer days.

- Rainy days: small-sized umbrella, water-resistant jacket with a hood. I chose a lightweight jacket because I didn't mind layering sweaters and long-sleeves underneath for extra warmth. The thin jacket could also be easily rolled up and tucked away in my tote when I don't need it. The most important thing for me was choosing a jacket with a hood because I don't like getting my hair wet.

Of the 24 items* I packed, I ended up wearing every single piece at least once; many I wore several times by either repeating outfits or by slightly changing an item here or there. The key was to pick basics from a color scheme that are easy to layer and mix-and-match. Along with "neutrals" (denim, white, gray, black), I stuck to variations of reds/yellows/blues -- any combination of the three are colors I could create outfits around.

I've heard about the VAT (Value Added Tax) refund for European tourists on luxury goods, but never had a reason to fill my brain with specifics until a few months ago. Right before I left for my Europe trip, I made up my mind to buy a Chanel reissue bag overseas because it's cheaper. According to my calculations, the savings should be around $800-1000 (comparing US price + state sales tax vs. European price - VAT refund) for the bag I had in mind. The only uncertain and possibly non-straightfoward part of this process was the VAT refund.

I did most of my research over at tPF in the Chanel Shopping forum. The ladies are full of knowledge and so helpful. Anything you'd want to know about the VAT refund rate (varies by country, usually 10-14%) to current bag prices to boutique inventory can be found throughout their many threads. Other sites that I found to be helpful: Global Blue's refund calculator (lets you enter purchase amount to determine tax refund by country) and Chanel Prices (lists worldwide current prices.)

Looking at the current exchange rate and the VAT refund % for the countries on my itinerary, I would save the most money by buying in Italy, then France (slightly less), then finally England (much, much lower.) If we had visited Italy before France, I would've bought my bag in Rome because the refund rate is 1-2% higher than in Paris. As it was, I didn't want to pass up on the opportunity to buy in France only to find out that the bag isn't in stock in Italy.

Another thing to think about beforehand is whether you want your refund back in cash or on a credit card. Cash refunds are 1-2% less but you get the money back immediately at the airport, whereas credit card refunds are higher but take a few weeks to process. I was greedy so I chose the credit card route, but then later read horror stories from people who never received their refund. It took about 5 weeks, but my refund did eventually show up on my credit card statement. Lets out big sigh of relief. If I were to go through this process again, I would choose to get cash back just for the peace of mind.

The VAT refund process consists of two steps. 1) When you make a purchase, the store will give you VAT refund forms that are filled out. This is also when you have to decide between cash or credit card refund so they can specify that on the paperwork (can't change your mind later.) 2) At the departure airport, have the refund forms stamped at the customs office. Then either drop it off at a designated mailbox (for credit card refunds) or stand in another line to get cash back.

Sounds easy enough, right? So our plan was to just arrive at the airport early in case of long lines at customs. But... right before we left for our trip, a friend (hi A!) asked if we have a direct flight back to the US from Rome? No, we have a layover in Germany... I think for an hour. Then she asked if I plan on putting my new bag inside checked luggage or carry-on? Carry-on. Bag is too expensive to not be with me at all times. Turns out, VAT refund forms must be stamped at the last port of departure out of the European Union. So if put my bag in my checked luggage, Rome would be the last port, but if I carry it with me, the last port is Germany. CRAP. An hour isn't enough time! So I turned to my BFF, Google, and read about people getting their VAT refund forms stamped at the first airport by showing their boarding passes with the short layover time. There were also others who were turned away by customs because it was not their last stop in the EU. Sigh. Nothing we can do now because our flights were already booked. So we decided to just go to the airport in Rome early and try out luck with customs. If that doesn't work and there isn't enough time in Germany, then apparently you can bring the VAT refund forms to the French embassy (or whichever country the purchase was made in) and have them stamped and mailed from there. Since I live in the DC area, the embassy idea could work as a last resort.

So many lessons learned! This is what happens when I don't put in any effort to making planning decisions, so I have no one to blame but myself. It's definitely a good idea to consider direct flights out of the EU and be picky about departure airports (if you can) because some are easier to navigate through than others. I was told (from a department store employee who works in their VAT office) that CDG airport in Paris has clear signs posted everywhere telling you where to go find customs and refund offices. They also have kiosks to scan the forms if you don't mind using a machine instead of waiting in line to speak to a person. I told him we were actually flying out of Rome and he grimaced, saying that airport isn't as easy to navigate. My advice would be to google your departure airport and familiarize yourself with their VAT refund process (where to go first, locations of customs/security/cash refund desk, hours, etc) as best as you can.

For refunds at FCO airport in Rome, I found this post and accompanying comments to be extremely helpful. Of course after reading other people's negative experiences with the refund process, I started feeling overly anxious. What if we can't find this supposedly hidden customs office and can't speak Italian to ask someone? What if we get stuck behind a huge group of Asian tourists at customs? Should we not bother sleeping tonight and just go to the airport extra early? DH just laughed at me before falling sleep. My worries were for naught (thank goodness.) There's no point in arriving before airline check-in counters open (usually 3-3.5 hours beforehand) because boarding passes are needed at customs. When we arrived at FCO, we didn't go very far before we saw a sign that was clearly labeled with VAT refund directions in multiple languages (!) near security:

There was also no line at the customs office, probably because it was 6am. I asked the customs officer if we can get our forms stamped now because we have a short layover in Germany. No problem, he said. Whew. He didn't even ask to see my new bag (VAT refunds are supposed to be for unused items only.) After he stamped my forms, I took a photo with my camera, just in case my refund doesn't go through and I need evidence to file a dispute. Then I sealed the envelope and dropped it in a VAT refund mailbox a few yards away. I don't recall seeing the cash refund booth nearby, but I wasn't paying extra attention since I had chosen the credit card route. It may have only been open during "normal" working hours whereas the customs office was open 24 hours.

Once we landed in the US, there was another series of steps before we could actually leave the airport. Immigration, pick up luggage, then customs. I declared my bag, so I figured there's a good chance I'll be questioned. I was a bit surprised at the amount of questions, but much more so at the actual questions that the immigration officer asked. I felt like the questions weren't going to trip anyone up, even if they had an elaborate story ready (granted, this was my first time not breezing through the airport, so I have no prior experience to pull from.) What is this number? What did you buy? Oh. That's a very expensive purse. Do you have it with you? What is your job? Did you buy it in Paris? What brand is it? Did you save a lot of money? That's a lot of money to spend on a purse. The grilling was more intense than what I'd imagine my parents putting me through, lol... and this was just the first hurdle! So I braced myself for round 2 of questioning at customs.

Yep, as I'd guessed correctly, I couldn't exit and was waved towards customs. This officer wasn't as nosy and just took out a calculator and said I had to pay 3% tax on the amount I declared. Afterwards, I learned from DH/SIL that everything is at the customs officer's discretion, ie: waiving items, charging between 3-9% tax on goods, etc. Supposedly leather products are to be taxed at a higher rate, so apparently we "lucked out" with our 3% tax.

I don't know how my experience compares to others who've arrived at IAD, or how it compares to IAD's reputation. I remember the consensus among my parents' friends was that customs at SFO is stricter than at JFK, so if they could, they'd try to book flights through NY, haha. This was about a decade ago, so who knows how much truth there is to that... anymore.

Was all the worrying and hassle worth saving money for? You bet. I ended up "saving" ~$950, which was in line with my initial estimate. Would I buy another expensive purchase from overseas in the future? Only if I win the lottery.

So many cities visited, so much to take in. Every day was a new experience in sensory overload. The immediate and lasting impressions I had of each city were: Loved London. It's a more refined version of the US, and I may actually prefer to live there over any other US city. The accents alone are enough to convince me to move. Disappointed with Paris. The city didn't live up to its "romantic" billing -- perhaps we didn't stay in/visit the right areas? I felt like it was the NYC of Europe -- dirty, smelly, had their share of unsavory characters. LOVED Venice. So charming and picturesque. Its laid-back vibe and slower pace of life meshes well with my personality, so I'm a bit biased there. It was so apparent the passion Italians have for their craft. Rome was my least favorite city of the four. Crowded, aggressive people everywhere. Hated how there were hidden costs in practically every restaurant we ate at.

Just a warning, a ton (compared to the usual) photos ahead.

DH and I have been talking about going on a honeymoon for what seems like forever. Fast forward a year, and we're still at the same spot in the planning stage as back then (!) Sigh. What we are able to make decisions on are short trips, preferably to places we've been to before. So I guess our recent trip to Charlottesville fills that void until we go someplace more exciting.

UVA was our home away from home for four years, so it holds a special place in our hearts. There are a few spots we make a point to stop at every time we visit, which includes Bodo's Bagels, a dining hall, and more Bodo's. Sadly, dining hall hours are irregular in the summer, but I did manage to eat enough bagels to last me until the next visit. I'll never tire of their smoked turkey on an everything bagel [photo below]. We even brought some back with us for lunch the next day. Bagels for three consecutive days? No complaints here.

Over the weekend, I went up to NYC with a few girlfriends. It was a spur-of-the-moment trip because we realized this is the last weekend for the next few months where we're all free. So what better way to spend it than shopping and eating our hearts out together? Sadly I didn't take any photos worth sharing, so I'll write about the jumbled thoughts still circulating around in my head as I deal with post-vacation blues.

- Ippudo still serves the best ramen. I downed my bowl in less time than it took for us to be seated. Their pork buns are more delicious than I remember, while the chicken version was only so-so. Can any DC people share their experience with Toki Underground? I'd love to find an alternative closer to home.

- I satisfied my curiosity for C. Wonder. The store itself is so bright and colorful. I considered a few home decor items, but decided to wait until my local store opens instead of lugging around a potentially heavy shopping bag in the city. Clothing sizes seem to run similar to J.Crew (ie: XS fits a bit big on me from both stores).

- I wish I hadn't set high expectations for the W Hotel (in Midtown East). I was underwhelmed. At first glance, the decor looked nice and modern, but a closer look revealed imperfections. Our bathroom sink was partially cracked in half, the bathtub could use resealing, no free WiFi and fridge (I know, I'm spoiled), and one of the rooms was freezing (broken thermostat). Geez I sound so nitpicky, but there were positives! Rain shower head in the bathroom (I could get used to this), complimentary car service (didn't use, but reservations are booked quickly), and friendly housekeeping.

- Laduree or not, macarons are wasted on me. I just don't appreciate them like others do.

- Uniqlo legging pants are the comfiest bottoms ever. They are currently on sale for $20 in a variety of colors. I would've bought a pair in olive if XS hadn't sold out. Details include an elastic waist, back pockets, and are made of stretchy fabric that is easy to pull on and off (usually my biggest issue with jeggings) and aren't too tight.

- Gotta love Chinatown. So many cheap eats! Prosperity Dumplings are always a favorite ($1 for 5. Unreal). I also ate Xi'an noodles for the first time. Chewy wide noodles served hot or cold, dry or in soup. I had a plate with non-spicy chicken for $6. Good stuff.

- You'd think after a weekend of sensory overload, I'd be inspired to dress in more colors. Perhaps a longer stay next time is needed ;) For now, here's a simple outfit from today.

Warning: Picture heavy post ahead. Not recommended if you're hungry.

I've been to San Francisco once before, many moons ago with my parents. I didn't fully appreciate it then for all I cared about was how cold and windy it was in the middle of summer. This time around, older and wiser, I was determined to make the most of my trip... with less whining.

When in the city, we stayed at Hotel Whitcomb. The hotel had a certain old-world charm that I marveled at even if it wasn't my preferred style. The area surrounding the hotel was a bit sketchy at night, so I wouldn't necessarily recommend it to families, but being aware and using common sense always helps.

For two days, we toured the city and hit up the usual touristy spots: Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge and nearby park, Lombard Street (what a workout it was), and rode the cable cars for their money's worth. One of the most fascinating things during the trip was hearing all the different languages being spoken around me, even if most were tourists. I thought DC was diverse, but SF truly is a melting pot.

Warning: Long and image heavy post ahead.

I experienced some of the most fun and worst times during my trip abroad. We were constantly on the move, not spending more than 3 nights at one location. I've come to appreciate the meaning of "living out of your suitcase." Kudos to those of you who travel often for work; I know I would be in one foul mood all the time. For this trip, I was lucky to travel with my cousin(s), who not only put up with my slacker ways (last minute planning among my many offenses), but also had to constantly wait for me while I took pictures*. Thank you S and T!

First stop: Japan. This was easily my favorite of the whole trip. I had an idea of what to expect thanks to helpful suggestions by SS and katattack2000 prior to landing, but the culture, the people, and the food all blew me away. If asked to describe the Japanese in 3 words, I would say: efficient, clean, and welcoming. Those are some serious praise in my world :)

Cousin S and I landed in Osaka around dinnertime. We were sleepy, famished, and cold, so our first order of business was to eat some hot ramen. While walking to our hotel, we happened to pass by one with a short line and decided to give it a try. Of all places, this shop turned out to be Ippudo! We quickly devoured our $10 bowls of ramen, which were as good (if not better) than NYC's. I didn't see pork buns on the menu, but we did see many locals eating what looked to be a fried rice dish.

This is my last post of the year because... I'm finally taking a vacation! In 36 hours, I'll be on my way to Japan, Taiwan, then finally the Philippines. I'll be without any means of communication, so I'll catch up with y'all once I'm back. If you have any must-sees/dos/eats, feel free to drop me a message.

In the meantime, here are some random thoughts and pictures from a last-minute weekend trip to NYC a few weeks ago. Good times, good food, and good company (not necessarily in that order). Can't ask for more than that :)

- I've been to NYC a handful of times in my life but this was my first time visiting Chinatown. Both Manhattan's and Flushing's are worlds apart from DC's, which is essentially a block around the Friendship Arch. I was surprised that pretty much every conversation I overheard was in Chinese, both among the young and the old. It was like being teleported back to Asia. I'll take that as a sign that I've been living in the suburbs too long.

Bf and I took a trip to Charlottesville recently, home of our alma mater (go Hoos!) It was a reach school for me, a safety school for him, but once we stepped foot onto the Grounds, it was inevitable that we would meet. School was where we became friends, started dating, and spent the best four years of our lives. Sappy much? :) Whenever we return to visit, we make a point to stop by our old stomping grounds, to simply marvel at the changes over the years, but also to reminisce about the good times. Just to name a few, must-see places include our old dorms, the Corner, and the picturesque lawn that Thomas Jefferson designed.

While we hardly took the time to seek out new local food spots back then, we make a point to do so now. What was wrong with us in college, you wonder? We both enjoyed dining hall food. And still miss it sometimes, hahaha. It's too bad they're closed over the summer, or we would've definitely made a stop :) So instead, on our must-eat itinerary was Bodo's (best everything bagels ever), La Michoacana Deli (I'm still sad we missed tacos by 20 minutes!), Marco & Luca (mmm dumplings and sweet & spicy noodles), and The Flat (light and doughy, salty and sweet crepes).

Good day, good times. I miss Cville already.

What do you miss the most about your alma mater?

Picture overload ahead. Mouse over photos for descriptions.