A tip for getting the most from your carry-on: “Choose bags that are square,” suggests Negrón. “Try to avoid bags with rounded edges, because you’re going to lose packing capacity.”

Other recommendations:
Swiss Army’s Victorinox NXT 5.0 Mobilizer: “This product is roughly $200 less than Tumi and has a front pocket that can store a 17-inch computer.”

Samsonite Black Label Cosmolite: A hard case from Samsonite’s premier line. “It’s not the hard case our parents owned. This is extremely light and durable.”

Rimowa Salsa Business Multiwheel: “This is also a hard case on four wheels but is made from polycarbonate, which makes it extremely strong and flexible, but also very light. Hard cases tend to hold up better if you do a lot of international travel.”

Packing
“The Eagle Creek Pack-It System offers different types of tubes and bags to organize everything from jewelry, toiletries, and electrical gadgets to socks, underclothing, sweaters, and suits,” says Negrón. “You can minimize wrinkles and maximize your packing capacity. They even have instructions on how to fold a shirt or blazer. Some of them can hold up to 10 days’ worth of garments—particularly if you know how to mix and match.”

The large system can hold between 12 and 15 items, including jackets and sweaters.
To handle all your liquids, GoToob makes squeezable silicon bottles in three sizes—all meeting the TSA’s carry-on requirement of 3 ounces or less. The award-winning travel bottles feature wide openings for easy filling, no-drip caps, and ID windows with pre-printed labels such as shampoo and lotion or a blank space to write your own.

Hand Luggage
The Briggs & Riley Large Shopping Tote [pictured in olive] is large enough to carry a number of different items, yet small enough to fit under a seat. “You can pack your laptop, iPad, a medium-size purse, and even an extra pair of shoes. It’s made from ballistic nylon, which makes it extremely durable. But all Briggs & Riley products have a lifetime guarantee in which they will repair products that are damaged.”

Nicknamed the Magic City, it’s a robust business setting for growing clientele and cultivating creative interests. The region’s great demand for services inspired Douthit to consider an entrepreneurial venture. Approaching her 21st year as the nutritional administrator for Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Douthit is also finding success with Petit Cakes (www.petitcakes miami.com), her line of gourmet cupcakes and miniature Bundt and layer cakes. Launched in 2009, Douthit’s home-based, part-time operation produces orders of roughly 2,000 to 3,000 cupcakes per month to an increasingly supportive group of patrons across industries. “I’m still young enough that I’m going to continue working,” says Douthit of her retirement in roughly 10 years, “and I’d rather be my own boss. My goal is to keep this at a slow and steady pace of growth.”

Here are several recommendations for your Miami experience.

ACCOMMODATIONS
A popular conference location, the Doral Golf Resort & Spa (www.doralresort.com), site of the 2012 Black Enterprise Golf & Tennis Challenge, spreads across 650 acres and offers a range of services and amenities that make it a comfortable environment for business exchanges, including its five champion golf courses.

Premium service is what guests can expect at the Mandarin Oriental (www.mandarinoriental.com/miami) located on Brickell Key. Booking a suite provides car service to and from Miami International Airport. This luxury hotel also offers exceptional year-round specials.

The boutique-style Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach (www.hiltonbentleymiami.com) provides a choice between a studio, one- or two-bedroom suites, and the penthouse, all elegantly appointed in European fashion. The penthouse is 3,500 square feet with a spiral staircase that leads to a split-level rooftop terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

RESTAURANTS
Truluck’s (www.trulucks.com) service extends beyond creative and succulent dishes to its own private crab fisheries and specially selected farms. There is live entertainment, and the after-dinner drink selection is as impressive as the wine collection.

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Rated one of the best Italian spots in Miami, Perricone’s Marketplace & Cafe (www.perricones.com) is open for lunch and dinner, with private rooms and special menus for business gatherings.

ATTRACTIONS
Three major sports teams have homes in Miami: the NFL’s Miami Dolphins play opponents in Sun Life Stadium; the NBA’s Miami Heat takes its talents to American Airlines Arena; and MLB’s Miami Marlins will swing their bats in the New Marlins Ballpark in 2012.

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts (www.arshtcenter.org) is the largest performing arts center built in the U.S. in the last 30 years. Located on Biscayne Boulevard, it hosts a range of artistic and cultural engagements. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is scheduled to perform in February 2012.

There are a number of society events, such as the Annual Hat Luncheon in February, that take place at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens (www.vizcaya museum.org). The Moonlight Garden Tour, complete with live music and wine, is a favorite for visitors.

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With Thanksgiving already scratched off the calendar, there’s only one month remaining in 2011. Whether it’s been a great year or a trying one it’s not too early (or late) to start thinking about your New Year’s Eve plans. A house party with close family friends beats an overpriced venue filled with intoxicated strangers any day; but why not consider a warm weather getaway as a relaxing alternative? With plummeting temperatures across much of North America and Europe, many already have the travel itch to soak up some sun and culture. Here are a few options to get you inspired.

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GUANACASTE, COSTA RICA

This small tropical country has varied weather, ranging from misty and cool to having a dry season in certain regions. The rainy season, which has been dubbed the “green season” by the local tourism industry, is from May to mid-November. As a result, Costa Rica’s peak tourist season runs from late November to April as a large number of North American and European tourists flock to the Central American wonder to escape the winter chill.

The Guanacaste region, located in the North Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, has become one of the more popular destinations, especially during the months of December and January. The main reason being the weather is consistent here year-round with 12 hours of sunshine (whether it’s dry or wet season). The wild nature tours, volcanoes and breathtaking beaches also offer an eclectic mix of options for those that want to do a variety of things while on vacation.

Where to stay in Guanacaste:

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive package, Villas Sol Hotel and Beach Resort, located in Playa Hermosa, is an option. The hotel is nestled on a steep hill with a picturesque view that’s 40 minutes away from the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia, Guanacaste. Internet and wifi access is available for an additional charge.

If you’re on a tight budget Luna Llena is an economical option. Surrounded by a jungle that overlooks the ocean, guests can expect to awake to the sounds of wildlife, such as monkeys playing in the trees and don’t be surprised if you see an Iguana or woodpecker in passing.

For information on tour packages in Guanacaste and other fun activities, visit GuanacasteCostaRica.com.

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MONTE-CARLO

If you’re not seeking a tropical destination but still desire a change of scenery that’ll make for an extravagant getaway, consider Monaco with its sunny days and 50 to 65 degree temperatures in January. The Principality of Monaco, also known as Monte Carlo, is the second smallest country in the world (Vatican City in Europe is the smallest). Set on the southern coast of France along the Mediterranean Sea, Monaco is known for its luxurious casinos, tax-friendly lifestyle and year-round large-scale events. Those who reside here tend to be very wealthy, which results in an extremely high cost of living.

The months of November through March tend to be Monaco’s off-season. Although travel rates may still seem pricey for some, booking during this time is your best bet to get there at the lowest price possible. From December 29, 2011 to January 2, 2012, The Hotel Hermitage and The Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort are offering the “Monte-Carlo New Year Star Package,” which accommodates two for about $2,400 U.S.. Remember, January is considered the low season for this expensive destination so fares and rates are even higher at other times of the year. For further information on this package and family New Year’s hotel packages, email: info@VisitMonaco.com.

The great thing about a small region like Monaco is that getting around to sightsee won’t be a problem as most locations are within walking distance. The Prince’s Palace at Monte Carlo is a top go-to destination and many would agree that the daily changing of the guard at 11:55am is a must-see. Visitors can also check VisitMonaco.com for more information on fun sightseeing activities.

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BAHAMAS

The Bahamas is located in the Atlantic Ocean north of Cuba and considered part of the Caribbean. Its high season is generally December through April, with temperatures averaging in the mid to late 70’s in December and January.

Nassau is the capital city with luxurious resorts, financial centers and tourists reveling in the island’s beauty. December is a fun month for the Bahamas with Junkanoo, an annual Bahamian festival celebrating the New Year. Junkanoo festivities run from December 26th through January 1st with thousands parading around in colorful costumes and dancing throughout the town.

Visitors should be sure to check out Bay Street, where they can enjoy the duty-free prices of designer and luxury items in the shopping district. There’s also the Straw Market, where there’s more shopping and the chance to socialize with Bahamian locals.

Where to stay in Nassau:

The Nassau Palm Hotel offers discounted rates during the month of December and is located just a short distance from the major shopping areas. For a more laid-back atmosphere, opt for The Marley Resort & Spa in Cable Beach, Nassau, a former vacation home of the late musician, Bob Marley and his wife Rita.

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PUERTO RICO

This tropical paradise is located between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean with temperatures being pretty much the same year-round, averaging 75-80 degrees in December and January.

Those who wish to spend their time somewhere other than the beach can visit the El Yunque National Forest in Sierra de Luquillo, the Bacardi Rum Factory or the Rio Camuy Cave Park. For special packages offering deals to Puerto Rico for December and January, log on to PuertoRicoSmallHotels.com.

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MOROCCO

Morocco is located in Northwest Africa, along the Mediterranean coastline with a climate that varies, depending on the region. December and January tend to be cooler, especially at night but the temperatures still average in the mid 60s to 70 degrees. If the weather permits, be sure to visit Agadir Beach, the top beach resort in Morocco, which is lined with cafes, restaurants and nightlife. For more fun activities, sightseeing information and special deals, visit Morocco-Travel.com.

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Last week was one of those weeks: I left home on a Sunday, before dinner, to fly across the country for work. Proceeded through four planes and three cities in three days, catching a red-eye back. That’s one of the most aptly nicknamed flights around. Of course, it could also be called the sore-back or stiff-neck or totally-wiped-out… But I digress.

In three marathon days of work and travel, it wasn’t actually the overnight flight home that stayed with me. It was the evening flight out, with me in the very last row of coach on a classic 757 that didn’t have a single available seat. I was in row 44, to be exact, with no other option.

With all due respect to the West Coast, I’ve always felt like a six-hour flight should land me on another continent. That is a loooong trip, and being in the last row has the potential to make it feel a whole lot longer unless you employ some serious lemonade-making thought processes to find the good in what is clearly not a good situation. Given the migraine-inducing realities of air travel today, this can come in very handy. So, in an effort to help all of my fellow frequent fliers, here are the results of my efforts to identify the “perks” of a situation that at first seemed to lack any.

Great Service: In the last row, you’re so close to the galley, you can smell everything happening in there (which, since airlines have given up cooking, isn’t much). You’re the first to be served a beverage and the tiniest possible packaged snack ever created. Of course, if you’re a big spender, you can buy something heartier without having to ever worry that the red wine, beer or sandwich you want is going to run out before your row is reached.

Safety First: Not only are you close to the exit without having to bear the heavy psychological burden of sitting in the exit row (are you really equipped to rip that door from its hinges, toss it from the plane, and play hero in a crisis?), you are actually sitting smack under the plane’s emergency medical supplies, including oxygen and a defibrillator. I found this out on my flight when a woman passed out in the aisle and the flight attendants had to climb up on my seat to get the equipment out. Luckily, the ill woman was revived without using any of it. But for my troubles (I had to stand up while the equipment was retrieved and then returned) the flight attendants apologized profusely and offered to give me anything I wanted. Of course, they no longer have anything (ice cream, a nice hot meal, a headset worth keeping) I want on planes, so I humbly declined.

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No Room…But a View: Sitting in the back of the plane, you have a clear view all the way to the cockpit, which means that you don’t have to crane your neck to see if there’s a line for the bathroom. You can sit back (well, not really back, since your seat doesn’t recline in the last row) and relax, not bothering to get up until that little “vacant” sign slides into place.

Congeniality Corner: Not only will you get to know the flight attendants stationed in the galley right beside you really well, you’ll get to overhear all of their conversations, which could easily be more entertaining than the in-flight movie you watched on a previous flight. Also, you’re guaranteed to make fast friends with your seat mates, who will be just as eager as you are to commiserate about your shared seating fiasco.

No-Kick Zone: For anyone who has ever endured a trip with a child kicking their seat from behind, this is a big one! For some, it might be reason enough to actually request the last row! No one is behind you. No little kickers, screamers, coughers, tappers, gas-passers or other junior travelers that only a mother could love.

Better Survival Odds: I read a statistic years ago that said you are more likely to survive a plane crash if you are seated in the rear of a plane than in the front. Of course, this is logical. As to whether it’s actually true, who knows. If you’re stuck in a last-row seat, it’s a good thing to console yourself with nonetheless. Those folks in first class, with their clean blankets and pillows, their hot meals and fresh-baked cookies, their leg-and-butt room and reclining seats, their spacious overhead bins, practically private bathroom, and drinks-on-demand… in a pinch, they’re more precariously perched than you are.

So, you see, there’s a lot to be glad about if you find yourself riding the back of the plane. Of course, this assumes you have a window or aisle seat. Back row, middle seat? The best you can hope for is that you’ll sleep through the entire ordeal.

Bon voyage!

Clockwise, from top left: The Travel Wallet unfolds; revealing the passport sleeve; and the micro pen

Whether it’s for business or for pleasure, international travel can be a chore, especially when it comes to carrying around identification, local currency, hotel key cards and any other items you can’t leave your home away from home without. With that in mind Australia-based Bellroy continues its tradition of producing products that help simplify the bulk that can overpower your pocket—and ruin the silhouette of your trousers.

The brands latest space-saving item is the Travel Wallet. Constructed of the finest leather this oversized wallet is designed specifically for the on-the-go traveler. Measuring in at 13.5 x 9.4cm, the Travel Wallet is big enough to hold your passport, boarding pass, cash and up to six credit or hotel room cards. It even comes with a special slot for the included micro travel pen with refills that will come in handy when filling out customs or any other paperwork. It’s the perfect overlooked accessory for the constant traveler that can appreciate a compact carryall wallet.

Only available in cocoa brown, the Travel Wallet retails for $120 and is available on the Bellroy website.  Check out the wallet in action below.

Bellroy Travel Wallet from Bellroy on Vimeo.

Gotta get away (Image: Thinkstock)

Work hard, play hard—that’s our motto! And whether you’re the busy professional who takes jaunts abroad for business or you’re packing up the family for a quick getaway, you want to know the way to make the best of your trip.

Use our exclusive Out of Office travel guide to get smart, simple and fun travel tips that are just for you!  We give you advice on the best places to eat, stay and play while you’re on the road—from hot new restaurants in cities across the country to the best destinations around the world to chic new places to party and connect. Our Out of Office travel guide puts in all in one place.

Visit blackenterprise.com/outofoffice DAILY for more!

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Even though school is back in session and the calendar reads September, it’s actually not too late to do something fun—and financially smart, too. I’m talking about taking a true end-of-summer getaway. Now, before you think that the time for a summer vacation is over, consider that the summer season actually officially ends September 30, giving you a few weeks to squeeze in a last-minute trip or long weekend at bargain basement rates.

Many people underestimate “the power of a weekend getaway in September,” says travel guru, author and MochaManual.com “mom blogger” Kimberly Seals Allers. “But a lot of great deals are available from now until September 30th.”

The reason deals currently abound—from San Francisco to Washington D.C. and all points in between—is because hotels, restaurants, airlines and others travel-related businesses are eager to attract customers during what is traditionally a slow season. So if you have even a wee bit of flexibility in your schedule, that makes the last few weeks of September a prime time for discounted travel.

For a girlfriends’ getaway, individuals with kids, or people with an interest in African-American history, Allers recommends the Orlando, FL region as a prime destination worth considering. Right now, the city of Orlando is pulling out all the stops to lure visitors, by packaging everything from 50% off hotel rates to sweet food deals to steep discounts on attractions and local points of interest. A full list of “2nd Summer” travel deals can be found at VisitOrlando.com/deals.

Beyond Orlando’s well-known theme parks, Allers says the eco-tourism side of the area is sure to be a hit with children of all ages, especially activities like zip lining at Gatorland, learning about birds at a local aviary, or taking an airboat ride to the Florida everglades to enjoy nature.

In July, Allers took her own daughter Kayla, 11, and her son Michael, 7, to these places and the kids had a blast. The family also went to the Kennedy Space Center, a short drive from Orlando, and had a meet and greet with an astronaut.

Orlando shopping and restaurants will be a draw for friends traveling together, Allers adds, noting that in Orlando, September is “Magical Dining Month,” so more than 60 restaurants are offering three-course, prix fixe dinners for a wallet-friendly price of $30.

For a bit of Black culture in Orlando, there’s the legendary Wells’ Built Hotel, which was the only place in the area that African-Americans—including the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Thurgood Marshall, and Jackie Robinson—could get lodging during the era of segregation. Right outside of the city, as well, is the historic town of Eatonville, “where a welcome tour shows you a lot of historical significance about this place, which was the first municipality in the U.S. to be incorporated by Blacks,” Allers says. Eatonville is also the hometown of Zora Neale Hurston—a festival in honor of the writer is held annually and The Hurston Museum showcases the work of Black artists every year, starting with an exhibition season that is free to attend and kicks off each September.

If Florida is too far, “think about a destination that’s drivable,” Allers suggests. “Traveling can give your kids a great experience and if you can get one or two mini breaks in, it really helps the school year move along—and pretty soon it’ll be time for winter break.”

In the meantime, if your getaway gives you a break without breaking your budget, consider yourself lucky—and financially savvy, too—as you enjoy one last summer hurrah.

For more travel tips, destinations and best places to stay, eat and play,  visit blackenterprise.com/outofoffice