Wanderlust and Lipstick Newsletter - May, 2007

Welcome Wanderlusters! My new website has just launched and is now Wanderlust and Lipstick. Take a gander and peruse the pages of information that will help you begin, solidify or reminisce about your dream journey. Among the many changes, I’ve beefed up the Wander Tales section to include stories from talented travel writers around the globe. And, at your request, I’ve included an extended list of recommended products, books, movies and accessories. Grab a cup of tea and enjoy!

Wander Bloggers
I’m excited to introduce some die-hard Wanderlusters blogging from as far away as China. Pam will be covering her daily life in the People’s Republic while Kristen, based in Seattle, will be blogging about quirky cultural nuances that she’s observed during her travels. Soon, Susan will be joining us to cover all-things-French and other bloggers are hot on her heels. If you have a travel-related area of interest that you would like to write about, please contact me to join the blogging community!

Speaking of blogs, don’t miss out on any of my entries. You can subscribe and be alerted to my postings (2-3 times per week) by filling in your email or by subscribing to the RSS feed on my blog page.

All the Tea in China
Come join me and a small group of tea lovers as we explore the world of tea in China. During this ten-day tour in September, you’ll partake in tea ceremonies, visit tea farms and markets and discover the hidden secrets of tea. Reserve your spot by May 15th and save $150! View more info here or email me for a detailed itinerary.

Wanderlust and Lipstick Book News
If you’re a subscriber to Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel Magazine, you may have already received your annual copy of the Girlfriend Getaways issue in which I was interviewed about solo travel. It’s a fun issue (especially page 19).

Foreword Magazine ran a lovely Spotlight Review in their May/June issue.

Elizabeth Millard states:
“Beyond helping women leap over the emotional hurdles that might be stopping them, Whitman proves to be a crackerjack travel advisor as well, tackling numerous topics in a breezy, no-nonsense tone.”

I now have a shopping cart set up at WanderlustAndLipstick and happily accept credit cards for your book purchases. All books are signed by moi and include free priority shipping. Order through the site and you put a little extra change in my pocket for future travels

Share the Love
Help grow our community of women travelers by forwarding this newsletter to your travel-loving friends so they, too, can stay updated on information and recommendations for travelers!

Travel Book
Women Empowered by Phil Borges - This coffee table photo book documents ordinary women from around the globe who’ve been impacted by war and oppression. It’s filled with intimate portraits of these women including those from Afghanistan, Bangladesh Ecuador, Ethiopia, Ghana and India.

World Music
Dimanche A Bamako by Amadou & Mariam - After 30 years of performing together, Amadou and Mariam, from Mali, released this breakout CD in 2005. Produced by Manu Chao, it has his style written all over it and is truly one of the best African CDs in my collection. Complicated and upbeat rhythms are the backdrop for all the groovy tracks.

World Film
Water by Deepa Mehta - The final movie in Deepa’s trilogy (including Earth and Fire), this is the story of an eight year old widow in Varanasi, India. Living in a commune-type environment which is overseen by an overbearing elderly widow, this is a love story, coming of age story and tragedy all rolled into one.

Hot Travel Tip
I’ve talked before about carrying a “false wallet” with an invalid credit card and some small change that would appease a pickpocket looking to cash in. An employee at Third Place Books, who’s also an avid traveler, said he adds a picture of himself flipping the bird in his false wallet. While this may not exactly translate in some cultures, I think the thief would understand the intent when he realizes that he’s been had himself.

New Subscribers
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Til next month,

Happy Travels!

Beth