Travel for Tomgirls

Tomgirl's online store to open soon!

2010-10-10T17:54:00.004-04:00

We hope everyone enjoyed a beautiful, active, outdoorsy summer! As we settle into the gorgeous Autumn here in New England, we're so incredibly excited to get back to Tomgirl business, and announce the pending launch of our Tomgirl Tours online shopping experience… that’s right, we’re opening our online store in October! Soon you’ll be able to shop for a few of our favorite fall and winter items, right on www.tomgirltours.com. We’ll be selling beautiful Tomgirl hoodies, winter beanies and gorgeous tanks and tote bags! All our items are hand embroidered with the utmost quality, featuring our fashionably sporty and statement-making Tomgirl Tours logo!

Until you have a change to join us on a tour (or, as you remember an adventure with us!) don’t miss an opportunity to become part of the Tomgirl outdoor adventure team, with the purchase of these items. Stay tuned… or, for immediate info and to pre-order this versatile, functional (not to mention: adorable!) Tomgirl tote bag, contact us today at 866.992.4990.

Summer Break

2010-04-27T12:07:00.003-04:00

As a tomgirl in New England, I am (as I do every year), counting down to summer. The skis, parkas and boots are tucked away and I’m like I was as a grade schooler waiting for school to let out! (speaking of: yes, that's me, right, with my sister Donna and nephew Dale).

We’ve had a few sneak peeks of warm weather so far, but with the arrival of May, abundant sunshine lies just ahead… and with it, endless adventure! There will be travel and zip lining and hiking and swimming and countless other activities. So, please forgive us if we’re a little quieter than usual. Instead of here on our blog, you’ll find us in our spare time in the parks, at the beaches and in the woods.

While you won’t be hearing as much from us here, each month, throughout the spring and summer, I will be discussing adventure and travel and Tomgirl Tours on Big Blend radio; we’ll keep you posted on the schedule and hope you’ll listen in.

Meanwhile, please do to chime in here or on Tomgirl Tours’ Facebook and share stories of your own adventures, wherever they may be. Wishing you all a spectacular spring and summer!

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: April 20, 2010

2010-04-20T08:36:00.003-04:00

Along with a love for adventure, part of being a Tomgirl is having a taste for life's luxuries--especially luxurious pampering. So, for our favorite things this week, we have spas on the brain! Here are a few amazing spots from Tomgirl's tour itineraries...

Places

Spa at the Essex is a gorgeous haven of relaxation at the Essex resort in Vermont, site of our Green Mountains Escape. Enjoy massages, body and facial treatments, salon services, an indoor lap pool, a fitness center, an outdoor hot tub, and too many other fabulous experiences for us to possibly name here!

Serenite, the spa at the Amara Resort is one of our favorite quiet places during our Red Rock Rendezvous tours in Sedona. The spa features the usual mix of services and packages, but with the added bonus of panoramic views of the Sedona horizon. We can't wait to visit again!

Media

In keeping with our theme, have you seen Spa magazine? A fabulous resource not only for spa information, but on how to bring those experiences home with you!

And, if after all this, you're on the hunt for the best local spa, SpaFinder is your go-to source.

From Tomgirl Tours

Join Tomgirl's Lori Carr tonight on Big Blend radio. Lori will be talking about the adventures to be found in New Hampshire. Click here to listen live at 7 pm!

Tomgirls Recommend...

2010-04-17T11:09:00.009-04:00

"Solemate: Master the Art of Aloneness & Transform Your Life"

by Lauren Mackler

This month marks the paperback release of Lauren Mackler’s life-changing international bestseller "Solemate: Master the Art of Aloneness & Transform Your Life!" In celebration, Lauren is inviting readers to post their Solemate experiences on her blog and automatically be entered to win a signed copy of Solemate.

To read Solemate reviews or post your Solemate experience to enter to win a copy of the book, go to Lauren’s blog. For more information about Lauren’s coaching services or to sign up for her free Live Boldly newsletter, visit Lauren's site.

Tomgirl extraordinaire Lori Carr was recently a guest on Lauren’s weekly Life Keys radio show on Hay House Radio. Click here to join Hay House radio and download the episode to listen to Lauren and guests David Brown and Lori talk about “Doing the Unthinkable.”

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: April 13, 2010

2010-04-13T14:18:00.003-04:00

This week our favorites focus on media for health-conscious and fun-loving travelers. These great resources will keep you healthy, informed, and entertained. What more can you ask for in life! Enjoy!

There are, of course, a plethora of print and online sources for information on health and wellness. We fine Health magazine and health.com to be one of the best one-stop resources. The online site has great, and extremely comprehensive, content on everything to keep you in-the-know and healthy.

To the fellow travel lovers or travel industry people out there: be sure to check in weekly for Peter Greenberg’s Weekly Travel Round-up Peter’s knowledge of travel shows through in this weekly must-read.

We love discovering blogs on the subject of travel. So, meet dirtbag writer, a self-proclaimed "budget traveler that is ambitious, eco-conscience, and cooperative – a major dreamer, adventurer, and conventional dissenter". Posts are informative but with a cheeky tone that’s much fun to read!

From Tomgirl Tours

Q: What, exactly, is a luxury eco-tent? A: Entirely “green” structures that still offer creature comforts. B: Where Tomgirls stay during our St. John Sojourn. C: All of the above. Answer: C! To learn more click here.

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: April 6, 2010

2010-04-06T11:40:00.001-04:00

After a crazy week of weather here in the Northeast, we most definitely have spring fever! Can’t wait to get out in the sunshine and warmer temps. Here are some great resources for your springtime travel and adventure!

In the News:

If you missed this article by Gadling, it really is a must-read for women travelers—be they adventurers like us, leisure travelers, or road warriors for business. The top 10 travel tips, gathered from women around the world.

Media

Adventure Green: Bryan and Anne-Michelle are hooking up with top green activists to learn what it takes to be eco-friendly. In every episode they will show you how to seek adventure and help the environment at the same time. Travel destinations include: Thailand, Costa Rica, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, Ireland, and Maine/Alaska in the USA.

Travel Gear Blog is a blog about outdoor travel gear. Since 2002, it’s been a "one stop guide to travel gear & gadgets". There is a little bit of everything "gear" on this site: Adventure Gear; a Gear Guide; Gear Reviews; How To/News; Outdoor Gear: Tech Gear and Travel Gear. Whew! She's on Twitter, too!

From Tomgirl Tours

Mark your calendars for April 20th! Tomgirl Tours’ Lori Carr will be back on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station (7-10 p.m. EST). This time around, learn all about New Hampshire and Tomgirl’s White Mountain Adventure!

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: March 30, 2010

2010-03-30T11:27:00.003-04:00

People and media too good not to share. Enjoy!

Media

Inn the Kitchen is a fun site for foodies who love to travel. Recipes, and all things food by innkeeper Rachelle.

Stephanie Pearson is a fine Twitter friend of Tomgirl Tours. I love her writing - she's a freelance writer, contributing editor to Outside, and Outside online’s “Gear Girl” columnist. Like myself, she is also a travel and outdoor enthusiast who loves writing about her exploration and outdoor gear. She writes one heck of a good blog with lots of good information for those who love to be comfortable in the outdoors - yeah, that's us - the Tomgirls! Look where Stephanie is headed ... a 2010 expedition to Mount Everest!

Interesting People

Sally Ride was the first American woman to travel in space on the space shuttle Challenger in 1983. She was mission specialist on STS-7, which launched from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, on June 18, 1983. The crew deployed satellites for Canada and Indonesia; operated the Canadian-built robot arm to perform the first deployment and retrieval with the Shuttle Pallet Satellite; and conducted the first formation flying of the shuttle with a free-flying satellite. Mission duration was 147 hours before landing on a lakebed runway at Edwards Air Force Base, California, on June 24, 1983. Amazing - this is a travel adventurer of the ultimate kind! Recently, Ride, 58, spoke to Reuters after appearing at a round-table discussion in Boston on gender equity and educating girls in the areas of math, science and engineering.

From Tomgirl Tours

Looking forward to Tomgirl Tours next radio interview on Big Blend radio… this time, tune in to Vacation Station to hear all about New Hampshire.

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: March 23, 2010

2010-03-23T11:18:00.004-04:00

Clearly, we love to explore so, since we aren’t out exploring the great outdoors at the moment, we’ve been doing some armchair exploring online. Here are some great new (and old) discoveries we’d like to share…

Media

Kelley Vick is a travel writer whose articles cover everything from specific destinations to insight on subjects like travel and your health.

A Road Retraveled is a great video resource for those days when you need a travel fix, but are stuck at the computer!

Places

We adore all our host hotels, but the blend of luxury accommodations, culinary exploration, gorgeous scenery and adventure opportunities make the Essex in Vermont extra special!

From Tomgirl Tours

If you missed Tomgirl’s Lori Carr’s expert insights into Vermont on Big Blend, you can still listen to her radio interview here, and read her article here. Don’t miss it!

Live and Learn: Best Practices to Acclimate to New Ski Gear

2010-03-13T10:48:00.001-05:00

I’m going to start right off by saying that getting accustomed to brand new and different ski gear can be challenging! The challenge was not only physical, but mental, as well. The concentration required to master new gear, while improving performance, was more than I expected! During the first half day with my new gear, I felt that I had lost most of the performance I gained over the past year, which can be frustrating if you are competitive (you will see my unhappy face on the gondola as I contemplated how to get used to my new precision skis!)

Let’s start with the Dalbello Aspire 75 boots. These boots are just incredible both on and off the slopes. As I mentioned in an earlier post, they are insanely comfortable and the fit is precise because you can tune them yourself.The heel inserts were not enough to get forward the way I wanted to, so I used the ramp angle inclinator to adjust heel angle with help from the ski shop. I think it made a difference in terms of energy to align myself, but it was difficult to tell because I skied mostly black diamonds on day two at Loon versus easier slopes the day before at Brettonwoods.

The boots were warm and comfy 100% of the time, and they fit my leg and calf perfectly. The skiing comfort with this boot is second to none – perfect fit, totally warm and soft inside – unbelievable! The walking release in the back of the boot was fantastic too and I was able to walk around the lodge with the flexibility of a winter snow boot – so very nice! The release helped with getting my boots on and off too. I just LOVE these boots and would highly recommend them beyond any boot I’ve experienced!

Getting acclimated to my new skis was a bit of a different story… challenging right from the beginning. First, I wasn’t used to the incredible edging that provided for some quick cutting and turning and it caught me off guard. After a few spills, I started to acclimate to it. Although my expert skier friend, Russ, suggested some tuning at the ski shop to smooth them out, I decided to wait it out and see what happened. Because the Atomics Seven Heaven 76 skis are designed for women and the bindings were mounted slightly forward, I didn’t need to lean forward as much any more. I did lean forward out of habit but realized after a few runs that I needed to relax into the ski more naturally and let it do the work versus me pushing performance. That made a big difference – okay, I’m staring to feel good about this gear now on day two - I’m starting to like it. I was with two advanced skiers and one advanced boarder on day two so it was all about the black diamonds. I confess that after two hours straight of that, I headed for the lodge absolutely exhausted. Let me say that I don’t think I would have had the energy with my old gear to push that hard for that long. The new gear made all the difference – very sweet.

A word on the XLT9 bindings. These white bindings look fantastic and are durable and highly functional especially when set correctly by the great guys at ski shop. I loved the secure feeling and easy step in and release out when getting in and out of them.

My observations:

1. With new gear, you will most likely lose some of your performance initially but it will come back quickly once you acclimate. You will improve even more as you practice on the slope.

2. Expect to adjust your gear or the way you are skiing. If it’s the first time you are using your new equipment and it may need to be modified to work with your personal physique, ski style and your preferences. Don’t be afraid to head to the ski shop with an understanding of what is happening to you on the slope. It’s important to pay attention to what is happening to you out there so you can describe it and they can assist you. Examples include:

Ø Falling due to sharp edge. Slow down, be patient and acclimate to your new gear until you get the feel for it or get the edges smoothed down.

Ø Overtired from just a few runs. Leaning forward when you don’t need to or overworking the run unnecessarily will exhaust you quickly, especially if you are on steep slopes and black diamonds – it’s more work and effort! Let the ski do the work, relax into the run and don’t over think it. Get back onto the blue and greens for a little while if you need to.

Ø Skis popping off to soon or not soon enough when you fall. Get your bindings adjusted. If they are popping to soon, the binding is adjusted to a beginner level versus an intermediate. If they don’t pop soon enough, they are set to intermediate and need to be set back to beginner if that is your preference. Head to the shop and get the binding adjusted.

3. Be patient. It takes a little time to acclimate to new gear in general and especially when the slope conditions are changing from hard packed and groomed in the morning to softer powered and then to mashed potatoes in the afternoon. Sometimes it’s the slope condition, fatigue or your attitude versus the new equipment. Take it from an impatient skier: time and practice works wonders in getting to know our gear on the slope.

I did complain a few times when my performance slipped, and even threatened to return my skis! As we rode the lift up the mountain, my friend Margo looked at me and then at my skis and said, “you can’t return those skis, they are just too gorgeous. Look at how they glitter and shine in the sun. They are beautiful.” I had to laugh at how function, comfort and style comes into play for women on the slopes – although not always in the same order!

I very happy with my ski gear selection last week and plan to keep all of my equipment. I look forward to wrapping up the season with a few more trips up north to break them in properly this year!

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: March 9, 2010

2010-03-09T11:15:00.003-05:00

Maybe it's the onset of spring (at last!) here in New England, but we're in a Vermont state of mind this week...

People and Places

Shelburne Farms is a scenic celebration of both agriculture and New England’s history. A working farm and National Historic Landmark, this gorgeous spot with a mission: to cultivate a conservation ethic. The center includes walking trails, a children’s farmyard, an inn, a restaurant, and, of course, working farmhouse.

Northern Lights Rock and Ice at the Essex (home base for our Green Mountains Escape), is a great spot to challenge yourself and have a blast. Features include and outdoor rock and ice climbing walls and rock climbing pinnacle and dual 450 ft zip wires. Best of all, they have adventure activities for any fitness (or courage!) level.

Media

The Adventure Life gorgeous, fabulous site featuring gear, photos, destination information, and even the weather! An informative must-read for the adventure junkie.

Vagabondish "The Travelzine for Today’s Vagabond". From what to pack and what to read, to gorgeous photos and travel news. Love!

From Tomgirl Tours

If our people and places have you, like us, aching for the next trip to Vermont, join us for an upcoming Green Mountains Escape getaway. We have four dates for this tour in 2010, the next being May 2-5. Hope to see you then!

Tips to help women make the most of their ski experiences

2010-03-04T20:18:00.003-05:00

Experts may already know this, but for the women who are recreational/vacation skiers, here is something you may not know: there is a big (and important!) difference between men’s and women’s skis, bindings and boots. So much so that it is worth not only taking the time to understand the difference, but also the investment in purchasing your own gear that is designed for women. The time and money you put in will make your ski adventures much more pleasant, I promise!

It’s important to take the time to research before making an investment like this because you will be using this gear for years. The type of skis, bindings and boots you purchase will depend on your ski level, skiing goals, terrain and, importantly, gender. I’ve been hitting the slopes (and researching) myself lately, so here’s some helpful insight…

First, it’s a good idea to demo equipment if possible (but, I realize, that can be difficult… Renting a specific pair of skis and boots at a ski shop or lodge can be next to impossible). Personally, I couldn’t find the brands I wanted to demo. So, instead, my approach was to thoroughly investigate and then buy them directly. (In another post, I’ll let you know how my ski purchase worked out on the mountain!)

After spending several weeks online and at various ski shops, I choose the Atomic Seventh Heaven 76 ski (157 cm length) with XTL9 bindings and Dalbello Aspire 75 boots. My skiing level is intermediate (moving toward advanced) and my goals are: increased speed and better cutting and turning. Here is what I learned and experienced…

Ski Boots

I start with boots because they are the most important part of the package. I researched and tried on 5 different brands of boots, including Atomic, Nordica, Salomon, Lang and Dalbello. Each manufacturer has their own concept of how a boot is made and what they focus on in terms of fit, function (ski level and skier goals), comfort and style.

While all boots had great features, I choose the Dalbello Aspire 75s. This women’s ski boot is for the intermediate to low-advanced skier. The boot was incredible from the moment I put it on my feet. Hard shell material on the outside with the most soft, plush boot lining I’ve ever felt on the inside. It is insanely comfortable! Low cuff hinges allow the boot to fit comfortably around varying leg/calf shapes and sizes (no more pain or bruising!); tapered heels with an added heel lift (or use the ramp angle inclinator to adjust heel angle) allows me to lean forward naturally versus constantly aligning myself forward for more controlled, faster skiing while using less energy; four adjustable aluminum buckles enable fine tuning and a seriously accurate fit. There is also a flip hinge on the back of the boot for easier walking in the lodge (yeah!) Ladies, these are seriously stylish boots – shiny black with gold and white scrolling around the outside – very sweet! Check out this Aspire 75 boot video.

Skis and Bindings

It’s hard to judge ski and binding performance in the shop so I recommend a lot of investigation and talking to the experts in ski shops. I got varying opinions but ultimately pieced it together on the following information... First, you must purchase women’s skis because they are designed specifically to balance the fact that women have less muscle and strength than men. Women’s ski bindings are mounted slightly further forward on the skis, which enables us to have the forward lean necessary for controlled skiing (which men have naturally on their skis). This is so important, not only for control, but so we don’t expend unnecessary energy and tire too fast (when you are tired, you fall more often). Having the correct skis for women also provides us better speed and turning. If you want to know more about women’s skis, check out this video for details.

While I looked at different brands of women’s skis and did my own research, I found the staff at ski shops most helpful. They were informed and focused on three factors; my current skiing level (intermediate); my skiing goals (faster speed and better turning and cutting); and the type of terrain I skied on (hard, packed powder on mostly groomed Northeast terrain). It was pretty simple after that. We talked about quality of the brand, ski shapes, ski length, pricing and that I wanted something to coordinate with my new Dalbello boots (they didn’t care so much about that, but I did!) I choose the Atomic Seventh Heaven 76 skis with XTL9 bindings (their recommendation) 157 cm. Check them out here.

These skis are for intermediate to low expert; have a strong edge hold for great cutting and turning; a little longer length for speed; and torsion flex control sectors, which adapt to specific terrain. The perfect ski for my level, goals and terrain. That worked out nicely based on my goals and I cannot wait to try them out!

A word about ski poles – you need them! Buy a basic pole that is the correct size. To determine your size; flip the pole upside down, grab it just below the basket and be sure that it’s at the same height as your bent elbow. Pretty straight forward.

Getting the right ski gear makes all the different in your overall ski experience—from performance to safety to comfort… not to mention how you will feel afterward!

Ski package pricing can range anywhere from $700 (on the low side) to several thousand. But, again, it is worth the investment. My best advice: compare, shop sales and shop at the end of the season for best prices!

Finally, as I mentioned in an earlier post… do not, by any means, forget your helmet!

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: March 2, 2010

2010-03-02T20:09:00.003-05:00

And the theme of the week is… shopping! Tomgirls love adventure but (we’re girls, afterall!), we also love a good shopping expedition. While each Tomgirl Tour features breath-taking adventure, there is a reason why shopping is a top vacation activity, so our tours also feature opportunities to explore the best local shopping destinations. Here are a few of our favorites from (of course!) our Tomgirl tours….

St. John Sojourn: What's the best accent to days in the sun, exploring the exhilarating adventure to be found in St. John? Shopping in Cruz Bay!

White Mountains Adventure: When we are done with our zipline and indoor sky-diving, we unwind at Settlers Green outlets... all the bargain-hunting fun you expect from a fabulous outlet shopping experience!

Green Mountains Escape: While this tour features Segways, hot air balloons and culinary delights (among other adventures), we love the time we spend browsing and shopping at the Church St. Marketplace.

Red Rock Rendezvous: Sedona has so much to offer, it isn't easy to fit all the adventure into one week. But, we do! And we manage to take a break to shop, too!

Media

Not shopping related, but we adore Wanderlust magazine, and think you will, too. The appeal of this U.K. based publication is best summarized by its tagline: The magazine for people with a passion for travel. Love!

Tomgirl Reviews: Giro G9 ski helmet

2010-02-26T15:37:00.003-05:00

Any gear I purchase for outdoor adventures needs to follow a specific set of criteria - function, comfort and style. So, I’m thrilled that the helmet I chose to buy this year – Giro G9 - met all three criteria.

Giro bike helmets have been around since I can remember, and both my son and I wore them religiously as he was growing up and our biking went off road. I loved them – functional and safe (they meet both U.S. and European safety standards), easy to use, light-weight (13.5 oz) and so comfortable.

It only made sense when we started skiing to look for a Giro helmet. I just picked up a new 2010 Giro G9 before I started the season this year. The Giro has a low profile and provides good peripheral vision, which you really need on the slopes. This weekend, Brettonwoods in New Hampshire was a bit busy and the weather was alternately cloudy and snowing hard, making seeing any depth whatsoever tough, so the ability to easily see on either side was key to safely navigating the mountain.

The Goggle Notch feature (holds your goggles to your helmet) is pretty standard and I find it handy both on and off the slopes (having one less thing to carry around the lodge makes me really happy!) The helmet is also sporty and it looks good on everyone.

Another key feature of the G9 ski helmet is that it is warm in the cold weather – in fact, it’s warmer than any winter hat I’ve worn (and so much safer). There is also an adjustable vent system with fifteen vents around the helmet that are easily removed. Weatherstrip plugs pop out easily and go into your pocket if you are heating up during a run so the ventilation keeps you cool. Manually removing the plugs on the mountain is tricky, but the ability to customize the airflow makes it worth it (and you can do it at the top or bottom of the mountain).

A couple of other “off the beaten path” features that I really appreciate are being able to hear everything with the helmet on; and the soft, vented ear covering that makes for easy listening (great when skiing with friends or sporting an ipod). The fit was perfect – and how do I know that for sure? Well, it was comfortable for starters and I could easily slide my iphone up under the ear vent to take a call without removing my helmet – happy day! If you know me at all, you know, that I’ve gotta have access to that iphone at all times (well almost all times)!

In sum: I give the Giro G9 helmet a big “thumbs up”.

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: February 23, 2010

2010-02-23T05:37:00.003-05:00

So, this week we have empowerment on the brain. One of the great things about Tomgirl Toursis that they allow women to build confidence tackle new and exhilarating challenges. So, while all our picks this week aren't necessarily travel related, they are all fabulous for empowering women. Hope you'll enjoy these great resources!

People

The Voices of Baby Boomer Women is the blog by the National Association of Baby Boomer Women, and it covers a range of topics of interest to the association's focus... 38 million of the healthiest, wealthiest, and best educated generation of women to ever hit midlife: baby boomer women.

Media

Outpost Magazine is a must read for the adventure lover. Filled with pieces that take an honest look at all aspects of travel--from health to gear to gadgets to places.

Diversity Woman is a magazine unrelated to travel, but one we adore for its focus on empowering professional women. Their tagline: "Leadership empowerment for women who mean business" says it all.

Places

Having just returned from a ski trip to gorgeous New Hampshire, we're reminded of our upcoming White Mountains Adventure tour and one of our favorite elements, the indoor sky diving at SkyVenture. Talk about exhilarating! A vertical tunnel where you experience the sensation of sky diving (without the plane) We can't wait to get back into their vertical wind tunnel!

Tomgirl Reviews: the EMS thumb-loop power stretch top

2010-02-19T12:19:00.009-05:00

At Tomgirl Tours, function, comfort and style are critical components for us when selecting our own outdoor clothing and gear. Whether we are running errands after work, attacking a ski slope or hiking through the woods, these are necessary elements when making a purchase. Here, Amanda DiLeone, an ultimate Tomgirl (and our Business Development specialist), shares one of her favorite outdoor clothing finds, the Eastern Mountain Sports thumb loop, power stretch half zip top.

Amanda is so active and involved in so many outdoor activities, we never know what adventure she's on is on (it’s hard to catch her indoors!) But we did catch her between her snow mobiling trip last week in New Hampshire and her zip lining and ski/spa adventure next week, to explain why this top (which, by the way, is on sale at the moment!) is a great find for outdoor enthusiasts.

First, I love the beautiful Morocan/Blue Curacao color. The texture had that polar tech feel (soft and stretchy) and the thumb loops were intriguing. I’ve never had a top like that and wanted to experience it.

I wear it all over the place (and I wear it a lot!)... at the office sometimes, running errands, hiking and, just last weekend, I wore it while on my snow mobiling adventure through the remote forests of New Hampshire. It’s so comfortable that I want to wear it everywhere.

The fabric is great because it’s does NOT pull and pill up like some other products do. Also, the sleeves are very long and placing my thumbs through the loops keeps my hands warm. The thumb loop also keeps the sleeves tight and neat around my arm so I can pull my gloves and coat right over it and everything stays in place. That’s a big factor because, on an adventure, I am moving around so much and I need to stay warm. It’s also great as a pull over with a tee shirt underneath and has a cool zip pocket on the upper left side.

You may consider going one size UP. I’m not sure if they run small or why that worked out for me, but that next size fits me just perfect.

Watch next week for a gear review by Tomgirl founder Lori Carr on new Giro G9 ski helmet, which she'll be sporting on the slopes of New Hampshire this weekend. Have fun Lori (and we’re so glad to hear you sport a helmet while skiing!)

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: February 16, 2010

2010-02-16T11:10:00.003-05:00

We love discovering fabulous new travel writers. We equally adore our partners and friends who share our passion for adventure. Happily this week, we have some fantastic examples of both! So, without further ado, here are our picks this week: people and places you simply can't miss...

Media Resources

In a sea of travel resources, Brave New Traveler stands out for a unique take on travel. Instead of just focusing on certain places, these writers take a broader look; exploring how to travel the world, respect other cultures, and discover the many paths to being a global citizen.

How does one summarize a website like Gadling.com? Amazing. This well-written resource is (in their words): "the world's biggest travel blog, written and edited by passionate travelers and writers. Covering all aspects of travel from around the world, Gadling is the premiere source for everything from travel news to travel tips, from budget travel to adventure travel -- and for everything in between."

Solofriendly.com is a great blog that focuses on exploring the world on your own. We love the advice: "If there is a place you want to see, then go see it. Don’t let anything—fear, other people, lack of resources, etc.—keep you from exploring this huge, diverse world we live in."

Interesting People

One of our favorite elements in our Green Mountains Escape tours in Vermont is the hot air balloon ride. So, meet the man who makes that happen: Jeff Snyder of Above Reality. Jeff runs a spectacular operation, which includes the largest hot air balloon in New England. His record and experience ensure that all Tomgirls on the tour are in good hands!

Susan Rezendez, owner of The Travel Connection, is a wonderful fellow travel enthusiast who owns her own travel agency and was very helpful to Tomgirl Tours when we first launched last year. She's incredibly experienced and knowledgeable and can find anyone the perfect trip.

From Tomgirl Tours

Heading North this weekend for a much-anticipated weekend of skiing! Destination: New Hampshire, site of our White Mountains Escape. While we're looking forward to the snow this weekend, we're also anxious for spring, and the two White Mountains Escape tours we have scheduled!

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: February 9, 2010

2010-02-09T11:02:00.002-05:00

As we in the Northeast muddle through these winter storms (snow shoeing, anyone?), we find ourselves with a lot of time to discover fantastic people and media resources. Here are our favorites this week… as always, we welcome your suggestions for great people to know!

Media Resources

Natural Awakenings is a national group of publications focused on healthy, green and natural lifestyles. Originally from Florida, this is now a nationwide franchise. Here in RI, we are big fans of the local version, which offers insight and resources for those, like Tomgirls, who are committed to leading a healthy , socially conscious lifestyle.

The Window Seat blog, written by the expert and passionate travel editors behind the behemoth Travelocity, is a fantastic resource for fellow travel lovers. As they say: “We love waking up in new destinations, counting down the days until that next big trip, and settling into the window seat to see the world beyond our front door.” We do, too!

Interesting People

Aspen Blogger is an entertaining and insightful resource on pretty much everything relating to women and adventure. We adore her posts on all types of adventures; from motherhood to travel, all peppered with her great sense of humor and wit about life’s challenges and joys.

From Tomgirl Tours

If you missed Tomgirl’s CEO Lori Carr’s interview about Sedona on Big Blend radio’s Champagne Sundays, here’s the clip! Stay tuned, as Lori will soon be contributing as Big Blend’s expert source on adventure travel!

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: February 2, 2010

2010-02-02T10:09:00.005-05:00

Hello, February! The year is already flying by, but we want to stop to give props to these great places, bloggers and media. If you love to travel (especially if you are a woman), you’ll want to connect with these fantastic resources. Happy Travel Tuesday!

Media Resources

We “met” Melanie Nayer on Twitter and quickly found a kindred spirit: a woman who loves to travel and sample adventure—be it outdoor activity, sampling new cuisine, or simply: exploring the world. Her blog is a wealth of insight… from discovering new places to simply commentating on the joys of travel. Here’s a perfect example: her 5 guilty travel pleasures of travel.

Carol Margolis, women’s travel guru, is another amazing resource we connected with on Twitter! Carol’s site, Smartwomenstravelers.com is phenomenal; a one-stop shop for any woman who travels. The site covers all the joys and challenges of travel—be it for business or pleasure. A must read!

People & Places

As most of you know, we have a serious soft spot for Arizona… for both personal reasons and because, well, our Red Rock Rendezvous is one of our favorite Tomgirl tours. So, imagine our delight to discover Arizona Spa Girls! Focusing on fabulous spas in Arizona (hey, Tomgirls love to unwind in style! 0h, this site is the brainchild of Lisa Kasanicky, author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Girlfriend Getaways. Check out the site, or follow them on Twitter.

Our next suggestion isn’t necessarily travel related, but for women out there (especially those in our area: Rhode Island), we love to recommend Maureen Umehara, founder of Women's Club SWANS. Maureen is an avid networker and very committed to connecting women in the local area. Her speakers and events are always of the highest quality. With a mission statement of: “To offer opportunities for women 21 years and older, living in and around RI, to have fun connecting and supporting one another in achieving their individual goals”… well, how could we possibly not love her!

From Tomgirl Tours

We couldn’t be more excited about this bit of (big!) news: we have joined the Big Blend Magazine family! Big Blend is an online “variety” magazine featuring lots of information and resources in a range of categories. Tomgirl Tours’ CEO Lori Carr is the newest expert on the site, specializing (of course!) in women’s adventure getaways. Lori will be a regular speaker on Big Blend radio, and author of monthly articles on the subject. Here’s a peek, but stay tuned, as we’ll be posting more on our Big Blend partnership soon!

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: January 26, 2010

2010-01-26T08:44:00.006-05:00

Where did January go?! Well, to close the month, here are our favorites of the week, resources for travel lovers everywhere (and a special one for those in our home state of Rhode Island):

Media Resources

Wherever in the world you travel, radio host Stephanie Abrams is the go-to source you must know. Stephanie's syndicated radio show is a wealth of information, and can be heard across the country. Or check out her shows, archived, on her website. Thanks, Stephanie, for all your insight!

We're pretty sure most women out there already follow Daily Candy in their local cities. This daily newsletter for in-the-know women is not only a fun read, but also a gold mine of local resources and events. But do you also subscribe to their travel edition? Everything you love about the local editions, but all with a travel twist. Love it!

People and Places to Know

Because outdoor lovers are often also animal lovers, we understand that leaving a beloved four-legged friend behind during a vacation can be stressful. So, we are delighted to offer our travelers a fantastic resource here in Rhode Island: Furry Friends Pet Care Services. Furry Friends' Alysha Fraser provides pet care and is a great resource. Having our clients' pets cared for in the expert hands of Alysha, allows our Tomgirl guests to truly "let go" and relax.

As an avid traveler, I've had the opportunity to see amazing sights and wonderful hotels and resorts. But the Essex in Burlington, Vermont is truly one of a kind. Set on 18 acres and offering vistas of the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain, this hotel is a Tomgirl dream. From fresh air and outdoor activities, to a world-class spa, to out-of-this-world culinary experiences thanks to the New England Culinary Institute's on-site presence, we adore the Essex (no wonder we chose it for our Green Mountains Escape!) and our wonderful friend, the resort's Director of Business Development, Dave Hakins... a classy and knowledgeable guy who takes amazing care of every guest at the Essex!

From Tomgirl Tours

As we continue to bundle up on these New England winter days, can't help but daydream about our St. John Sojourn tour in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Seven days in the warm sunshine; enjoying snorkeling, swimming, kayaking and mountain hikes. Ahhh... heavenly! (Where are my goggles and fins, anyway?!)

Profile of a Tomgirl: Lisa Nelson

2010-01-24T16:27:00.006-05:00

Instead of us always doing the talking, we thought it would be fun to share the stories of other Tomgirls too! First up in this "Profile of a Tomgirl" series: Lisa Nelson (below, just about to try zip lining!), who first traveled with us last summer on our White Mountains Adventure.

1) What does being a Tomgirl mean to you?

Being a Tomgirl means that you can have the best of all worlds. If you want to experience a pampered day at a spa, it's available; if you want to shop, it's available. You can have that type of vacation. But, if you want to do something challenging -- something out of the ordinary, something exciting, something you'll remember for the rest of your life - it's available to you!

2) What type of Tomgirl activities do you like to do to stay active?

When I have time, I like to horseback ride, but it's hard to fit into a busy urban life. The thing I loved about Tomgirl Tours was that it offered me a challenge to do things I'd had always wanted to try. It offered camaraderie, fun and excitement. The first Tomgirl Tour I took lured me with the challenge of zip-lining and controlled wind tunnel sky-diving. Because I am afraid of heights, and knew I would never get in a plane to sky-dive, it sounded like a perfect way to have the thrill without the danger. It far surpassed my expectations, and allowed me a great vacation with my daredevil daughter! We would not have vacationed together if it were not for the activities offered by Tomgirl Tours.

3) What do you love most about the outdoors?

I love the beauty of all outdoor landscapes. Whether we are in the mountains, by the water, or in the desert, the experience is indescribable. Each offers something to the individual. So, whether you want excitement or peace or beauty, all are available to you outdoors.

4) How did you find out about Tomgirl Tours and what do you think about a company that caters to women like you?

I received an email at my computer station, which I think was meant for the woman who was in the position before me! I was absolutely intrigued. It was the first vacation package in my life where I had no hesitation to go by myself. The activities sounded incredible. [Tomgirl Tours Founder] Lori Carr has a knack of knowing what women like me want. I loved the fact that everything was so well planned out, but without the forced structure you may get in other vacation packages. The ladies on the trip were fabulous (pictured, right), and my daughter went with me and shared an experience we will never forget. I'm so happy to have found Tomgirl Tours and look forward to many more vacations with them!

For more, here's a little taste of Lisa's Tomgirl adventure...

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: January 19, 2010

2010-01-19T08:52:00.004-05:00

What a fabulous week! Our favorite people this week include some great Tomgirl Tours’ friends and not-to-be-missed resources for tomgirls everywhere!

Media Resources

We start our favorites with girlsgetaway.com. Yes, we are especially fond of Girls Getaway this week because (well, we hate to gush, but…) they featured Tomgirl Tours this week as one of the top 6 women’s travel tour companies! But, that is far from the only reason we list this as our top pick. The Tomgirl crew has long been a fan of this site, a one-stop resource and (in their words…) “gathering place for women to plan a wild and wicked world adventure, or a place to find out all about great local weekend trips with the girls”. Amen to that, girlfriends!

Most readers are probably already familiar with Women’s Health magazine, but we wanted to give this fantastic publication a shout out for those who might not be regularly reading. The mission of this well-known title by Rodale is right on par with Tomgirls’ values: “Women's Health is for the woman who wants to reach a healthy, attractive weight but doesn't equate that with having thighs the size of toothpicks. We know that exercising and eating well will make you happier and stronger (even if after-work runs can be drudgery). That looking and feeling good have very little to do with cosmetics and high heels (though they can help you feel glamorous on a Saturday night and we love that too!). And that life can be stressful since there's never enough time, but balance is achievable (with a little help)”

Let's Travel Radio is a Tomgirl favorite when it comes broadcast media. Let's Travel is a live, global radio talk show in which Host Susan Raphael and Producer Michael Zufolo invite listeners to explore the world of travel and culture.

Interesting People and Places

Bretton Woods is one of our favorite places (and site of our White Mountains Adventure). If you don’t already follow our Bretton Woods friends on Twitter, check them out here for updates on what’s happening in their gorgeous corner of the world.

In the News

We did a little cheer this week to hear that a consumer survey reported that there will be a 70% increase in participation in adventure travel over the next three years!

From Tomgirl Tours

Given the poetic description of Tomgirl founder Lori Carr’s lifelong love affair with Sedona, Tomgirl Tours has our Red Rock Rendezvous tour on the brain! We have three of these tours scheduled for 2010, and can’t wait until April 24th, when the first kicks off! (we have some spots still left on that tour. Call us to join!)

My Lasting Love Affair with Sedona

2010-01-16T12:55:00.004-05:00

Sedona is unlike any place you’ve ever been. The soaring red sandstone, perfect blue skies, and outdoor, healthy vibe draw you in inspires the moment you arrive. Panoramic vistas are everywhere – stunning, magnificent, even breathtaking at every turn – each more beautiful than the next. That was my second reaction when I visited Sedona for the first time in the mid 80s. My first reaction? Reminding myself to breathe and to blink…. I was captivated the moment I set eyes on Arizona. It was love at first sight and has lasted a life time.

My Mom introduced me to Arizona when she and my sister up and moved west after living their entire lives in New England. As my Mom said, it was an innate, insistent calling that caused her to go west to Arizona, and, it must be hereditary because one of my sisters and one of my brothers went along with her. I was mad as hell when they up and left the Ocean State – the idea of swamp Yankees surviving in cowboy territory unnerved me to no end. …. until, well until, I went to visit….and oh my!

My mom, the original Tomgirl! (below, with my niece, Brandi)

From exploring the mining caves and the Mining Camp restaurant with my sister and family, to horseback riding at the Grand Canyon, to late nights at the cowboy clubs, it was a virtual haven for a tomgirl. Not to mention the spiritual bent… all those hours of meditation within and around the vortex area under a star filled night sky will make you… well… ponder.

My sister, Donna, and I

Twenty years later, I created yet another reason to head back to Sedona every year: The Red Rock Rendezvous in Sedona, one of Tomgirl Tours’ feature adventure tours. This trip (clearly!) holds special meaning for me, and I love watching our guests as they experience the spectacular and pristine red rock country in the high desert of Sedona, Ariz… exploring the spectacular Grand Canyon on a day trip hike below the rim, experiencing a rugged Pink Jeep tour through Broken Arrow and Ancient Ruins, and marveling at the view during a sunrise hot air balloon ride high above the pines and soaring red sandstone. It’s the desert adventure trip of a lifetime, and sharing it with Tomgirl travelers is one of the greatest pleasures of my lifetime!

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: January 12, 2010

2010-01-12T10:48:00.001-05:00

Don't miss these fabulous need-to-know people and media that celebrate women and travel; our weekly favorites:

Media Resources

When it comes to travel, GoNOMAD gets it right. GoNOMAD explores all areas of travel—every destination imaginable, along with specific insight for women travelers, family travelers and tours. They also offer a handy reference to travel tools and support, like books, travel insurance and various other resources.

Breathe Magazine, focusing on adventure, endurance and lifestyle, is a Cyberspace adrenaline rush… its stories and photos make us want to get outside even more than we already do, breathe the fresh air and challenge ourselves! (Need we say more about why we love it!)

Tomgirl Tours empowers women via energetic outdoor adventures, but we advocate empowering women in all areas of their lives, so Power Women Magazine, and it’s mission to do just that, really speaks to us. The website is a wealth of information for women, on “issues ranging from equal rights for all women to homelessness among women, and everything in between.” Brava!

Interesting People

Ann Petronio, (aka the Escape Artist), is the dynamic owner of Annie’s Escapes travel agency. She’s been a friend and wonderful supporter of Tomgirl since our launch event last year, and a colleague who co-hosted our Adventure Travel 101 Webinar. A fellow adventure lover, Ann is a fabulous resource for anyone’s travel agent needs.

We met Caulleen Worrell of Usmile at an event last summer, and love her website’s goal: “to be an online cross-culture community for women”; and mission: “to see women of all cultures and backgrounds connecting, informing, and sharing ideas with each other… to inspire, motivate, stimulate, and make women shine so that their days are brighter and easier to enjoy.” The site is also, we should add, a pleasure to read and navigate!

From Tomgirl Tours

Looking forward to getting back to New Hampshire for our White Mountains Adventure in March. Did you know that Bretton Woods, site of our zip-line adventure, is one of finest zip lines in this (or any!) corner of the world?

Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week: January 5, 2010

2010-01-04T18:52:00.004-05:00

With so many fabulous resources, it is tough sometimes to figure out Tomgirl’s Picks of the Week. (luckily, however, there are 52 weeks in the year!). Here are our favorite people, companies and media this week… what are yours?

In the News

We are all about the outdoors, adventure, health and travel… so we’re pretty smitten with Outside magazine. A magazine packed with ideas and reviews of outdoor activities, insight on the best gear, and general health tips. A must-read for fresh-air-loving Tomgirls!

For travel industry insiders, Packaged Travel Insider is a B2B bible. No surprise, with editor Matt Poe keeping the pulse of the industry. An early believer in Tomgirl Tours, Poe and Packaged Travel Insider will long be among our favorites.

People and Places

While in Arizona, Pink Jeep tours are one of our favorite excursions… so much so that they are an integral part of Tomgirl’s Red Rock Rendezvous tours. While we already adore the concept that blends rugged dessert exploration with our own signature color (pink!), we’re now loving their new addition: the Pink Java Café, serving pink donuts!

We met Santa Fe Traveler’s Billie Frank via social networking last year. Like Tomgirl, Santa Fe Traveler has a unique and upscale niche in the travel world: a boutique personal concierge service to create the perfect Santa Fe experience for travelers. While we reside on opposite ends of the country and have never met, we have become Twitter friends (twends?) and highly recommend this expert for those traveling to Santa Fe.

From Tomgirl Tours

Our next tour up is a perennial favorite for travelers: Tomgirl’s White Mountains Adventure… this all-inclusive trip to New Hampshire is a 2-day extravaganza of adventure (zip lining and indoor sky-diving!), balanced by relaxation and fun at a gorgeous local hotel. You can see more here on this blog, from our last White Mountains Adventure, if you missed it. There are still a few openings on this tour (March 14 and 15), so call today to join us!

Reflections on the Importance of Business Partners

2010-01-02T17:43:00.006-05:00

At the start of a New Year, I’m doing a little reflecting on 2009’s achievements, challenges, and the partnerships that supported Tomgirl through it all. I started Tomgirl Tours last year and, as a micro-business owner, needed a little help in executing the launch. It was vital to find the right talent: experienced, results-oriented, and flexible partners to help me start and grow Tomgirl Tours. I was very fortunate to find three of the most professional, committed and effective business partners, and I’d like to tell you all about these amazing people and each of their small, but powerful, micro businesses. I would recommend all of them –hands down – because they always met or exceeded my high expectations:

I’ll start with Jeremy Nivison from Nivison Multimedia. Jeremy was a key and critical partner in establishing Tomgirl Tours’ website—from conception to inception. We worked together across the country, from Providence R.I. to Providence Utah, to design, test, perfect and then launch tomgirltours.com. Jeremy’s attention to customer service is first rate. His turnaround times then and now are immediate; his communication always friendly, insightful and reassuring—even during those critical deadline periods. All this, and the quality of his work is outstanding. I highly recommend Jeremy for any website related services!

With the website designed, we needed a fast, reliable hosting company we could trust. We found the perfect company with Jesse Kielhorn, Founder and President of EchoServers.com. This 23-year-old Wentworth graduate has the business and customer-service acumen of a professional twice his age. My website uptime is 100% - how is that possible?! Not sure, but I’ll bet is has something to do with this young entrepreneur’s leadership, technical know-how, and impeccable commitment to outstanding customer service. The detailed reports I get from EchoServers.com offer very precise data that allows for savvy marketing, promotion, and advertising analysis; letting me know where my dollars have been effective. And talk about high-end customer service – read these comments from other EchoServer clients and check out the low prices. Go Jesse!

Last, but certainly not least, is my communications and public relations specialist (not to mention, social networking aficionado and sleuth) Carrie Soucy, Founder and President of Miamore Communications. Carrie just knows how to get a strong promotion and branding message out, and she wastes no time getting results. My blog and website visits double and triple each time she puts her savvy and figurative “pen to paper” (or should I say “keyboard strokes to Blog, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube”). Carrie doesn’t just provide ideas and solutions, but she puts together a promotional and communication strategy based on her clients’ upscale product branding, marketing and promotional needs and goals (and if you don’t have them defined yet—don’t worry—Carrie will walk you through that process too!) As her tagline says, Miamore Communications spreads the word about life’s finer things, and we, as a very happy client, could not agree more!

Tomgirl's Picks of the Week, Dec. 29, 2009

2009-12-29T16:17:00.006-05:00

This weekly installment of Tomgirl Tours' favorite people, places and websites is a sort of year-in-review; the best of the best from 2009. These fabulous friends, writers, bloggers and services are great resources for women and travelers...

In the Media

Big Blend Magazine is an e-zine dedicated to educating and informing readers about the various parts of the United States and beyond. While their subject matter ranges from leisure to music to fashion to special interest, we (of course!) adore their travel section. Run by mother-and-daughter team Nancy Reid and Lisa D. Smith (one of our favorite Twitter friends, too!)
Afar magazine, is a gorgeous publication that is right up our alley, with a focus on experiential travel... in their own words: Today's travelers want to get beyond the superficial, the mass-produced, the mass-consumed, and the mass-experienced. They look for the authentic in people, places, and things. Bravo!
Travel with Julie is one of our absolute favorite blogs. Writer Julie Gilley offers travel tips, ideas and opinions, all with the educated voice of someone who has been there (and everywhere!) Fantastic content; a must-read!

People to Know

Our friend Lauren Mackler is a world-renowned coach, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and host of the weekly Life Keys radio show on Hay House Radio. She has risen to international prominence by developing Illumineering, a groundbreaking coaching method that integrates family systems work, psychodynamic psychology, and coaching to help people free themselves from the shackles of their life conditioning, and create the personal and professional lives to which they aspire. Check out Lauren’s blog.
Vivvos designs and produces brazilian inspired underwear that makes Tomgirls like us want to indulge in their girly side! Vivvos is produced in in Vancouver with Italian fabrics. As their tagline perfectly summarizes: take away the danger and remove the constraints and the wayward spirit runs free. Love it!
Single Gourmet is a sweet (or savory!) way for single foodies to meet others. This great concept blends socializing with with food, offering a chance to meet new friends, enjoy great conversation, and sample top restaurants... talk about our favorite things! Check out their Metro New York and Rhode Island/Connecticut groups.

Hope you enjoyed our list of favorites this week, and will drop us a line with some of your own. Meanwhile, a safe, happy and prosperous New Year... See you in 2010!

Holiday reflections on family and shared adventures

2009-12-26T20:29:00.007-05:00

This holiday season has me, like many people, in a warm and nostalgic state of mind. Sharing time with family makes me cherish memories, both old and new.

I just came across some photos of me with my beautiful niece Brandi; and they made me smile and remember one of the reasons why I started Tomgirl Tours: my love of sharing outdoor experiences with other women... especially when they are family!

Brandi and I started our outdoor adventures long ago... as cowgirls:

Fast forward a couple decades, which landed us on opposite ends of the United States... she in Arizona, me in New England. So, last year, when she decided to join me for a zip lining adventure at Bretton Woods Canopy Tours in New Hampshire, part of Tomgirl's White Mountains Adventure, I couldn't have been more thrilled to take those cowgirls memories of yore and create new Tomgirl memories!

Brandi rarely gets to experience the cold and snow, but she was a trooper and loved it, especially in my fur hat!

We had a fabulous time. I feel very lucky to have these memories and such an amazing shared experience with Brandi. Reflecting on our adventure, I remember why I so often encourage family members--sisters, aunts and nieces like Brandi and I, cousins, or mothers and daughters to take a Tomgirl adventure trip together. The bonding experience is beyond description...

Tomgirl's Picks of the Week

2009-12-21T20:01:00.003-05:00

In the course of each week, we come across so many great websites and blogs relating to women’s and adventure travel, read interesting news stories we want to share, meet other fantastic women and discover exciting new companies. So, I decided to start giving fellow Tomgirls a one-stop spot where I’ll share some of my favorite news, people, places and updates in a weekly “Picks of the Week” blog post. I hope you’ll enjoy my picks each week (and, please share some of your own!) Here are some of my favorite things this week:

In the News

A couple new media sites for travel lovers and those, like me, who enjoy exploring: First, togfrog.com, a compilation of adventure reviews and videos from adventure travelers around the world (and a nifty map to help you locate them); Second, Signature Magazine, a new magazine celebrating those over 50 who enjoy travel and exploring the world around us.
This report that luxury travel is rebounding, meanwhile, is reason for those of us in the travel industry to smile as we head into 2010!

Interesting People and Places

Bloom With Barb is a site by Barb Scala, a certified coach, speaker and spokesperson for women in transition who want to sprout their dreams and grow their life and career. I was lucky to meet Barb at a recent event and, given her positive outlook and desire to empower other women, we instantly clicked. The Bloom With Barb site is filled with insightful, inspirational posts and information.
Holiday Goddess is a fantastic editorial site focused on women’s travel. Beautifully designed, easy to navigate, and filled with great info!

From Tomgirl Tours

Only a few days remain before Christmas… if you are considering giving one of our gift certificates to a woman in your life, call or email me today!

Join Tomgirl to Help Prevent Breast Cancer Through Education & Early Detection

2009-12-16T18:02:00.005-05:00

The last of our four holiday gift certificate partner charity profiles is one Tomgirl Tours and I have long supported: the National Breast Cancer Foundation. While there are many organizations that help in the fight against breast cancer, the National Breast Cancer Foundation has a proactive prevention-focused approach that I am especially drawn to.

The National Breast Cancer Foundation's mission is to save lives through early detection and to provide mammograms for those in need. They strive to increase awareness through education, providing diagnostic breast care services for those in need, and providing nurturing support services. The organization was founded by Janelle Hail, now its CEO. Hail faced breast cancer when she was only 34 years old. At the time of her diagnosis she was living a healthy lifestyle and had no family history of breast cancer.

Long an advocate of women's health, which is a fundamental element of our own mission statement at Tomgirl Tours, this organization speaks to me. And I encourage all to join me in supporting it.

To help, I've made the National Breast Cancer Foundation one of the charities you may select to receive a donation when you purchase a Tomgirl Tours Gift Certificate this season. For more on how to purchase a gift certificate and help the National Breast Cancer Foundation in the process, see here.

Join Tomgirl in supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters this season

2009-12-08T16:28:00.004-05:00

The third of our four partner charitable organizations in Tomgirl Tours’ holiday gift certificate program is the amazing Big Brothers Big Sisters. I’ve long been an advocate of mentoring young girls to help them grow into strong, confident women (Tomgirls, you might say!) And, as the country’s oldest and largest youth mentoring program, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes such a vast impact on our greatest resource: children.

Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors children, ages 6 through 18, in communities across the country. Their mission is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors that help create brighter futures, better schools, and stronger communities for all.

National research has shown that positive relationships between youth and their Big Brothers and Big Sisters mentors have a direct and measurable impact on children's lives. By participating in our youth mentoring programs, Little Brothers and Sisters are:

More confident in their schoolwork performance
Able to get along better with their families
46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs
27% less likely to begin using alcohol
52% less likely to skip school.

We are proud to support this organization, and saw this commercial on a local network this week showing Laura Bush doing the same!

Purchase a Tomgirl Tours gift certificate this season, select Big Brothers Big Sisters as your charity of choice, and we will make a contribution on your behalf. Your gift will both give a special woman an amazing Tomgirl tour while, helping special children receive the support and mentoring they need.

For more on our gift certificates, see here.

The National Forest Foundation: Preserving Our Precious Outdoor Spaces

2009-12-03T19:10:00.006-05:00

In our series of "profiles" here on the charitable organizations we've teamed with for our gift certificate program, up next is one near and dear to outdoor-adventure-loving Tomgirls like me: The National Forest Foundation.

A Congressionally chartered organization, the National Forest Foundation engages Americans in community-based and national programs that promote the health and public enjoyment of the 193-million-acre National Forest System, and administers private gifts of funds and land for the benefit of the National Forests. In other words... it is the group that makes sure we have those wonderful outdoor spaces in which we can explore, enjoy nature, and breathe clean, fresh air. We are especially appreciative of their efforts because two of our tours, the Green Mountains Escape in Vermont

and the White Mountains Adventure in New Hampshire,

are set in National Forest areas (more on the National Forests here and here, respectively).

For those who purchase a Tomgirl Tours gift certificate this season, if you select the National Forest Foundation as your charity of choice, we will make a contribution to this wonderful organization. Your gift will both give a special woman an amazing Tomgirl tour while, as the National Forest Foundation so perfectly summarizes: help ensure a sustainable future for the many resources your National Forests provide to us all - fresh air and clean water, outdoor recreation experiences, diverse wildlife, and wild places to roam.

For more on our gift certificates, see here.

Thoughts on Holiday Gifts, Giving Back and (of Course) Travel!

2009-11-28T17:35:00.004-05:00

Turkey leftovers in the fridge, an onslaught of catalogues in the mail and miles of traffic around the malls... yes, it's officially the holiday shopping season!

Yesterday, of course, was Black Friday, and we're less than 48 hours away from the so-called Cyber Monday. According to early reports, Black Friday sales held their own... not exactly robust, but no decline, either. The same is expected for Cyber Monday. (A personal aside: I'm all about the cyber shopping thing... why fight the crowds and get the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer tune firmly lodged in your brain if you can shop online?!)

Being, clearly, a fan of travel, I'm happy to find some fantastic gift ideas for the fellow travelers on my shopping lists. theplanetd just listed these fun ideas that every Tomgirl like me is surely coveting.

That said, these early retail sales reports underscore the financial struggle many are facing this year. Given the work I've been doing with non-profits in planning our gift certificate promotion that gives back to our partner charities, I've become hyper-aware of how the financial struggle is magnified for charitable organizations this year. So as I poke around online, I am thrilled to see other companies also offering gift ideas that "give back". Here are some fun, low-cost items to consider from Sensational Color.

The Chronicle of Philanthropy estimates that charitable giving will be down nearly 10% percent this year (more on that in a later post). So, as you shop for the holidays, please consider these wonderful opportunities to not only give, but also give back. And, if you are an adventure travel lover (or have one on your list), remember that every Tomgirl gift certificate purchase this season provides a significant contribution to your choice of our four partner charities (and that you need not battle the traffic at the mall to purchase one!)

Meanwhile, happy cyber shopping to all... (and, by the way, please let me know if you find any fabulous travel gadgets that I need to add to my wish-list!)

Tomgirls Make Wishes Come True...

2009-11-19T12:21:00.008-05:00

As part of Tomgirl Tours' holiday gift certificate program, which supports four of our favorite charitable organizations, we will be sharing a bit about each of the charity here on Travel for Tomgirls.

Kicking off this series of four posts is A Wish Come True.

Unlike our other partner organizations, A Wish Come True doesn't focus on women, health or the outdoors; it is simply a wonderful organization with an admirable mission (providing "wishes" for children battling life-threatening illness) that speaks to me and many other women.

A Wish Come True, founded in 1982, grants wishes to children aged 3-18; as of this year, they have granted 1,200 wishes, costing an average of $5,000 each. It is difficult to read through the stories of the children they've helped without getting choked up and wanting to help them grant wishes to more children... and so, Tomgirl Tours has vowed to do just that this holiday!

Anyone who purchases a Tomgirl Tours gift certificate this season can choose A Wish Come True (or three other organizations) and Tomgirl will donate at least $75 ($125 for week-long tour purchases) directly to A Wish Come True... allowing you to truly give special new meaning to your holiday "wish" list.

Call (866) 922-4990 or email me directly at lori@tomgirltours.com for more information or to purchase a gift certificate.

This Holiday Give the Gift of Adventure as You Help Those in Need

2009-11-07T16:54:00.000-05:00

Tomgirl Tours has officially inked the details for our holiday gift certificate program--one that allows purchasers to not only give the gift of upscale adventure tours to the women who receive them, but also to provide support to four charitable organizations that are near and dear to us at Tomgirl Tours.

As I outlined in my last post, this year has been an incredibly difficult one for many non-profit organizations, as people pulled back spending on all levels, especially their charitable donations. So, as I developed the idea of a gift certificate option for this holiday, I thought what better way--or time--for Tomgirl Tours to "give back", and allow purchasers to know that their holiday spending is also helping these organizations that do so much good.

In keeping with Tomgirl's dedication to women (and girls), health, and the Great Outdoors, we've selected four foundations as our partners. For each gift certificate sold, Tomgirl will make a donation to whichever cause the purchaser selects. We will donate $125 for each certificate for a week-long tour, and $75 for each certificate purchased for a weekend tour.

The organizations from which you can choose:

A Wish Come True, which grants wishes to children ages 3 through 18 who have life-threatening illnesses and live in Rhode Island & areas of southeastern Massachusetts. As of June 2009, a Wish Come True had completed more than 1200 wishes, at an average cost of $5,000 each.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation, which strives to save lives by increasing awareness of breast cancer through education and by providing mammograms for those in need.
Big Brothers Big Sisters, the oldest, largest, and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States. Mentoring children, ages 6 through 18, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors that have a measurable impact on youth.
The National Forest Foundation, which engages Americans in community-based and national programs that promote the health and public enjoyment of the 193-million-acre National Forest System, and administers private gifts of funds and land for the benefit of the National Forests.

To decide which tour to put on your holiday wish list (so you can start dropping hints, of course!), click here. For information on how to purchase a Tomgirl Gift Certificate, contact me at (866) 922-4990 or email info@tomgirltours.com.

Seeking Ideas on Causes to Support this Holiday...

2009-10-22T12:47:00.000-04:00

We're finishing up plans for a holiday initiative that will make it easier than ever to bring a little Tomgirl adventure into your lives in 2010. And we’re seeking your input and ideas in finalizing one integral element of this program: giving back, by way of supporting charities for causes near and dear to Tomgirl Tours--like education, preservation and women's health.

It's been a difficult year for many non-profits and we want to not only help, but also help you help. Like adventure travel, doing what we can to make a difference in the wider world is quite empowering--to both giver and receiver.

We have a couple organizations already lined up, but right now we're seeking two additional causes to support with this initiative. First, an organization that makes a difference in the lives of troubled or disadvantaged girls; second, a preservation group, specifically one in a region we love to travel to on our tours: the White Mountains.

Please let us know your ideas? (and stay tuned for developments!)

Tomgirl's Newest Journey: the Path to Financial Empowerment

2009-10-12T12:17:00.000-04:00

Personal finance has always been a passion for me. Understanding what, how, and when I need to manage my money in order to have a secure, healthy and comfortable lifestyle makes me feel good about myself, my family and my life situation. It's a great feeling to get to a point where you aren't worrying about credit card debt and your ability to the pay the mortgage on time but rather to focus on the things we need to do to proactively create wealth - small or large wealth; either way, it doesn't matter... what matters is thinking and planning. I've educated myself in many ways, and one of my favorite sources of information is Suze Orman, but I--like many women--could have used more proactive help over the years.

Enter Tomgirl Tours' newest tour feature: financial planning workshops on our Vermont tours next year. You might be asking yourself: “Financial planning and adventure travel?” Well, this workshop will be less like a “typical” financial planning seminar than like an adventure in itself.

My partners in this are Ameriprise advisors Chris Hager and Chris Di Fronzo, who are going about this with a unique approach - we are going to start with your dreams and desires and set about creating your wealth vision. Huh? What is that? Your wealth vision gives you the chance to "dream" about what you really want (I mean, what do you really, really want? A farm house in the woods; a cupcake truck business in the summer? More time with family?) In this area we'll help you to create your dream board. From there, Chris and Chris will go through the steps of planning and executing each aspect necessary to meet your vision. We will talk about things like passive and passionate income; tax avoidance strategies; wealth protection and the usual stuff like stocks, bonds and insurance... After all, a goal starts with an end result in mind (and on paper) and the clarity of purpose and actions to make it come true.

I’m excited about these sessions and helping other women dream, plan and execute their futures - ones that hold security, comfort and the wonderful feeling of empowerment that planning and taking action gives to us.

Money grows exponentially and so can we!

Get Outdoors and Do Your Mind (and body) Good

2009-10-06T11:40:00.000-04:00

On these absolutely picture-perfect New England autumn days, when the blue skies and crisp air beckons, it can be hard to focus on work (especially for tomgirls like me!). As we tend to the business of planning and preparing for our upcoming tours, I keep looking out the window and thinking about why nature and outdoor activities are such a lure. I know why I am personally drawn to them but, given that Tomgirl Tours focuses on exhilarating adventure in the great outdoors, I poked around a bit online--in the name of business research, of course--and found some interesting reports on exactly why outdoor adventures like our tours aren't just good for fun, but actually excellent for your health.

According to this report from Kent State University: Outdoor recreation has psychological benefits, including the prevention or reduction of stress; improved self-esteem, confidence and creativity; spiritual growth; and an increased sense of exhilaration, adventure and challenge from life.

This study, meanwhile, shows not only the individual mental and physical benefits of outdoor recreation, but also how getting outdoors with friends and family builds and strengthens bonds (exactly what we always say!)

Finally, the Public Health Agency of Canada offers this about physical activity: [it] allows daily tasks to be accomplished with greater ease and comfort and with less fatigue.

So, if you'll pardon me, I'm heading out into the sunshine now... some might call it playing hooky, but I call it doing my body (and mind) good.

What You Need to Know About Adventure Travel

2009-09-26T19:21:00.000-04:00

Thanks to everyone for attending our Adventure Travel 101 webinar on Wednesday. What fun to connect with fellow adventure lovers! I especially enjoyed sharing some of the reasons why adventure travel first appealed to me, then inspired such passion that I founded Tomgirl Tours. Those reasons? Well, much more than just the adrenaline rush of stepping off a zip line platform or ascending into the heavens in a hot air balloon, adventure travel:

Allows you to engage in the world around you
Provides empowering, hands-on experiences
Stretches your boundaries and helps build confidence
Gets you to explore new destinations
Creates memories to last a life time

and, perhaps most importantly,

Is a bonding experience during which you build lasting friendships.

Webinar attendees, meanwhile, were especially interested in learning about what they need to consider before booking an adventure tour. Important points for those who are venturing into the unknown, so I wanted to share some of the key considerations we discussed:

Understand your travel goals and desires
Think about what destinations get you excited
Decide what activities you want to experience
Learn about tour operators like Tomgirl Tours and be sure that they are experienced and have researched all adventure elements of the tours. (I, for example, will not schedule a tour without experiencing each activity to ensure the safety and experience of guides)
Seek expert advice (i.e., a travel agent you trust)

An adventure vacation can be one of the greatest experiences of someone's life. My goal is to ensure that it is! So, if you missed the webinar or have any questions, I'm here to help!

Intrigued But Intimidated by "Adventure Travel"? Read On...

2009-09-15T19:01:00.000-04:00

I started working with Lori Carr and Tomgirl Tours in May, when my agency, Miamore Communications, became the company's public relations agency. In the four months since, I've been lucky to learn SO much about the exciting adventure travel niche... because, to be honest, when I first heard "adventure" in relation to "vacations" for women, I naturally (and very much erroneously) imagined women jumping out of planes, rock climbing (when the ground was nowhere in sight) and other--in my imagination, daredevil--activities. While I was, personally, very much the quintessential tomboy growing up (the only "son" of a man with only two daughters, as my family jokes), the term "adventure travel" intrigued me, yet made me squeamish.

Flash forward to the present day and I understand the levels of adventure travel ("hard" vs. "soft") and especially appreciate Lori's brand of adventure at Tomgirl Tours--"mildly adventurous", as we describe it--exhilarating and empowering, yet entirely safe (and balanced with some girly elements... like spas, upscale hotels, the finest cuisine, and cultural experiences).

Having been now enlightened by Tomgirl Tours, and having done extensive research this wildly popular travel niche (one of the fastest growing segments of travel, according to industry research), I now see on other women's faces the familiar hesitation/misunderstanding/curiosity I experienced when I first met Lori last spring. And that is why I can not recommend enough the Webinar that Lori and fellow adventure-loving travel expert Ann Petronio (owner of Annie's Escapes travel agency) will host next week, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m. (EST). In 30 minutes, Lori and Ann will explain the levels of adventure available and educate women on how to choose the correct tour operator and travel planner to ensure the biggest concerns: comfort and safety. This pair of travel adventure dynamos also will spend additional time answering any and all questions you might have. (And, as an insider tip: Tomgirl will have some special discount incentives for those who attend!)

If you are like me, and you love adventure but aren't quite sure what the heck "adventure travel" entails? Well, I can only say that the Adventure Travel 101: Demystifying Adventure Webinar will be well worth the 30 minutes. For registration, see the link at right, or click here.

Hope to See You in Hartford This Weekend!

2009-09-07T17:32:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful Labor Day weekend we enjoyed here in Rhode Island. And, as it winds down, I'm just as excited about this weekend--the 7th Annual Connecticut Women's Expo in Hartford, Conn. Tomgirl Tours will be exhibiting at the expo for the first time, and we can't wait to meet all the tomgirls in our neighboring state!

The expo is open Saturday, Sept. 12 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Connecticut Expo Center (click here for directions). The expo features products and services ranging from fashion and beauty, to health and nutrition, to financial planning and education. The highlight, however, will be at booth 324: Tomgirl Tours. I hope you'll come by and say hello... we're offering some special offers for Expo attendees, including raffles to win discounts on Tomgirl's adventure tours and merchandise, and special pricing on our upcoming tours for anyone who signs up at the Expo.

Admission to the Expo is $10 at the door, but email me and I'd be happy to send you a free pass.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Tomgirl Empowers Women (Physically and Financially)

2009-08-30T18:31:00.000-04:00

em·pow·er

\im-ˈpau(-ə)r\

(transitive verb)

to promote the self-actualization or influence of...

We're always talking about the fun, the laughter and the breath-taking scenery and adventure of Tomgirl Tours. One thing we (and travelers) don't often verbalize, but which has been on my mind lately, is how these experiences empower women. And I don't use that word lightly. Take, for example, just a few of our recent Tomgirl guests who have commented on this blog:

"What they offer... should be considered a public service... I encourage all cancer survivors to take off your wig, put on a helmet, and change your perception of yourself." --Carol

"Thank you so much, Lori, for putting together a wonderful package of fun and adventure that helped get me out of my way-too-restrictive comfort zone!!" --Lisa

So, to complement the physical and mental empowerment our brand of adventure offers to travelers, I'm very excited about a special feature of our November Red Rock Rendezvous in Sedona, Ariz. (click here for additional 2010 dates). I've teamed up with Edward Jones financial planner Kira Golden to offer Tomgirl guests an optional financially empowering element on these Sedona tours. Golden will guide guests who choose to participate (no extra cost) through financial visioning, planning and execution strategies; including risk exposure, investment policies, legacy planning, tax minimization tools, and passive or passion income streams. (Meanwhile, Tomgirl is in talks with a couple of our favorite New England financial planners to possibly do something similar on our tours in this region).

What better time to clearly visualize our dreams and goals than while feeling our adrenaline pump on an outdoor adventure--perhaps as you step off a zip line platform and realize that you really can accomplish anything... physically or financially... if you are willing to take that leap of faith in yourself.

Let Us Answer Your Adventure Travel Questions

2009-08-24T15:55:00.000-04:00

“Adventure” is like the words wealthy, attractive, or intelligent: its meaning is almost always relative to the speaker or the audience. To some, an “adventure” getaway entails journeying to a hotel that doesn’t have an in-house spa. To others, it requires jumping out of a plane.

In travel circles we use the adjectives hard (like Bungee jumping or white water rafting) and soft (bird watching or culinary tours), to help define the level of adventure. But activities in the two categories swing to extremes, begging the question: what about someone who might want to try something that gets her heart pumping a bit, but isn’t quite ready for a vertical ice climb?

For starters, you fit into the Tomgirl category. And for that category we’ve coined the term “mildly adventurous.” What does that mean? Well, as you’ve seen here on our blog, our activities range from zip-lining and indoor skydiving, to ropes courses and Segway riding.

Mild adventure is our style and, as such, we’re working on our upcoming webinar, Adventure Travel 101, to help explain the differences in adventure excursions, answer questions would-be Tomgirls have, and ease the minds of anyone who has considered an adventure tour, but is still hesitating.

During the Webinar Ann Petronio of Annie’s Escapes and I will answer questions about how to plan an adventure vacation and provide food for thought on choosing the right tour (addressing topics like travel goals, destination choices, desired activities and budget planning).

But we know there are other questions out there so, throw ‘em at us and we’ll be sure to address your queries. Have you taken an adventure vacation? What was your experience? If you haven’t yet experienced an adventure tour, what questions or concerns have stopped you? Do you have fears about the level of adventure or fitness required to participate? Do you wonder about the safety of the activities?

Feel free to post any questions in the comment section here or email them directly to me: lori@tomgirltours.

The Webinar is Sept. 23; we’ll have registration available next week but, if you’d like advance information, just let me know!

It's Official! Tomgirl Has a New Tour Package for 2010: Gorgeous Vermont!

2009-08-18T17:39:00.000-04:00

As I’m sure you could tell from all our posts about the trip to Vermont, we absolutely loved the Essex resort, the area, and, especially, the adventure experiences. So, I’m happy to announce that Tomgirl Tours has officially included a Green Mountains Getaway to our 2010 menu of tours (check out our website for details on this and all our 2009 and 2010 tours)! We hope you’ll join us for the ropes course, the zip-line, the hot air ballooning, the Segway experience, the phenomenal New England scenery and, of course (this is a Tomgirl tour, afterall!): the amazing culinary experiences, top-flight spa pampering, and immersion into the local culture. Speaking of those last items, here’s a few photos from our trip last week—both of the incredible spa at the Essex and of the postcard-perfect villages and countryside in the area.

First, the spa at the Essex: the décor sets the immediate tone for this relaxing and luxurious environment, providing the perfect end to a perfect few adventure-filled days at the Essex. The colors, the aromas of the incredible products and relaxing music put me into the right frame of mind for a great signature massage... My only complaint? That the 80 minutes flew by like 10! (I definitely plan to spend more time in the spa during my next trip!)

Now onto the other gems we discovered (and will share with our Tomgirl guests on the Green Mountain Getaway tours): Shelburne Farm, a beautiful and historic former Vanderbilt estate, is situated on Lake Champlain and serves as the home of our wine and cheese tastings during the Green Mountain Getaway tours in 2010.

Finally, on the leisurely drive back to my home in Rhode Island, we had the good fortune of traveling through gorgeous Woodstock, Vt. The incredible two lane roads with picturesque views were like stepping back to a simpler time - this beautiful, quaint covered bridge punctuated the area’s charm.

As we drove through the center of Woodstock, I had to stop and photograph this quaint building with their fences covered in beautifully blooming flowers of all colors.

Indeed, the drive was almost as much fun as the adventure tour... almost.

Videos from Vermont... Check Out the Action!

2009-08-12T14:11:00.000-04:00

We've returned from our fabulous Vermont adventure (and are still savoring the fun!). Here's a peek at Carol and I in action the past few days at the Essex in Burlington...

My Segway trip through the park near Lake Champlain, what a great way to enjoy a fantastic day in beautiful downtown Burlington Vt.

Carol rope climbing and making her way to the top platform at Northern Lights (no easy task!)

Carol takes a break and bursts out laughing – she is so happy to be back on stable ground (42 feet in the air on a platform, that is)!

Then it was on to the next part of the adventure, where Carol took her first zip line to the base.

Lori makes her way to the top on the ropes while posing for photos for Charlie King, the summer resident photographer at The Essex.

Update from Vermont! On the Ropes and Climbing the Wall

2009-08-11T09:33:00.000-04:00

They say a picture is worth a thousand words and I agree! So, what better way to explain the adventures Tomgirl is enjoying at the Essex in Vermont than with these photos... (more to come later!)

Our wonderful guides, Tommy and Frank

Carol and I climbing

Me, flying!

Here I am on the ropes

Greetings from Gorgeous Vermont and the Essex Resort!

2009-08-09T18:35:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful summer day in gorgeous northern New England! Today, I traveled with friend and tour operator Carol Conley from Rhode Island to Vermont to check out a possible 2010 Tomgirl tour at the Essex resort and spa, in the Burlington area. The scenery along the way was amazing. (check out the Vermont countryside we witnessed along the way):

At our destination, the Essex, we were warmly greeted by business development director at the resort, Dave Hakins. Here are some pictures of the resort (though, really, photos don't do justice to the experience of generous hospitality and an utterly relaxing vibe at this resort):

Soon, we met Christine, the owner of Northern Lights Rock and Ice, and were whisked away by Tommy and Frank, our guides for the afternoon "ropes" adventure. (Below: Carol with our guides):

What a wonderful day! Stay tuned tomorrow for more from the rope and wall climb, hot air balloon photos and vids, and more!

Join Me in Vermont to Check Out a Possible 2010 Tomgirl Tour!

2009-08-08T18:49:00.000-04:00

We've been busy planning our 2010 tours and tomorrow I'm off to Vermont for a few days to investigate the Essex, a culinary resort and spa in lovely Burlington, Vt. On my itinerary as possible elements of a 2010 Tomgirl tour: a ropes and rock climbing course, a tour of Lake Champlain, a hot air balloon ride and a sampling of the resort's spa offerings. The mix is right up our alley: outdoor adventure, fine cuisine (the Essex is home to the New England Culinary Institute), upscale accommodations, beautiful surroundings, and a touch of girly pampering.

Stay tuned for some action blogs the next few days as I report back on this possible tour. If you have any thoughts, do share; as always, I love hearing from you!

Curious About Adventure Travel? Read On…

2009-07-30T18:00:00.000-04:00

Okay, what exactly is “adventure” travel? Heard the buzz and wonder what it entails (and if it is for you)? If so, you aren’t alone. We hear those questions a lot at Tomgirl Tours. So, to answer them, this September I’ll be hosting a webinar “Adventure Travel Demystified,” along with travel agent Ann Petronio of Annie’s Escapes. Ann and I decided to offer this informational webinar because so many women want to try an adventure tour but haven’t—whether due to uncertainty over the itinerary, safety, or required fitness levels (short answer on the latter: if you can walk a couple of miles, you’ll be just fine on a Tomgirl tour!). Our goal with this webinar is to debunk people’s fears of the unknown in adventure travel.

Here at Tomgirl, for example, we focus on “soft adventure”: we’re not climbing glaciers, but we’re not spending our tours indoors getting manicures either (although we do understand that a girl wants to be pampered, and add a touch of that to every tour!). Our recent White Mountain Adventure excursion in New Hampshire is the epitome of soft adventure: a zip line canopy tour and indoor skydiving lesson, balanced by a morning of shopping in the heart of North Conway.

Right now, we’re in the planning stages for the webinar, figuring out which of the many questions about adventure travel we should really tackle. Any subjects you’d like us to address? I’d love to hear from you (feel free to comment or send us an email directly). The webinar is slated for September 23, so you can get started on figuring out your 2010 vacation with your travel consultant and tour provider. We’ll give more details and remind you again as the date approaches, but mark your calendars and please do chime in to let us know what information you’d like to hear about in the webinar.

Providence's Magical Waterfire, A Bonus for Savory City Travelers!

2009-07-28T18:57:00.001-04:00

Saturday was a Waterfire evening here in Providence and I, along with my son Jesse (see, right) and some friends, was lucky enough to be there (videos below). What magic! Those of you who have been to a Waterfire know it is nearly impossible to describe the experience in words. For those who may not have heard of Waterfire, it is an event that takes place several times each summer in beautiful, historic downtown Providence, R.I. Waterfire features one hundred sparkling bonfires, the fragrant scent of aromatic wood smoke, flickering firelight on the city's arched bridges, torch-lit vessels traveling down the river, and enchanting music from around the world (click here for more). While I live here in Providence, whenever I go, I am somehow surprised again by the experience. I'm not at all surprised, however, that National Geographic Traveler magazine has named it one of only 20 "must-see" events in the United States! (For the first-hand experience of a first-time attendee, a writer from Travel Writer's

magazine click here).

So, as I continue to savor my Waterfire experience, I could not be more thrilled that our final Savory City ~ Providence tour (Sept. 18-20) falls on a Waterfire weekend! Meaning: anyone lucky enough (and quick enough!) to book one of the coveted remaining spots on that tour will not only dine at Providence's fabulous Italian Federal Hill restaurants

(more on that later!), learn how to prepare local cuisine during an al fresco cooking class, and take a day trip to gorgeous Newport, R.I., but they will also experience the unique magic of Waterfire! (Waterfire weekends regularly draw 70,000+ visitors and sell out hotel rooms throughout the city). What a fabulous weekend it will be! Hope to see you then...

A Shout-Out and a BIG Thank You to Our Media Friends

2009-07-23T18:41:00.000-04:00

As we were ziplining, indoor skydiving, and generally being Tomgirls on our White Mountains Adventure, several prominent media were featuring Tomgirl Tours last weekend. Wow. Thanks so much to both nationally syndicated radio travel guru Stephanie Abrams (listen here) and travel writer Terecille Basa-Ong at the (NJ) Record (read here). We couldn't be happier!

Next Up: A Culinary Adventure in Providence!

2009-07-22T13:20:00.000-04:00

We are all still smiling and talking about our adventure in New Hampshire, so here are a few more videos

Lisa's fun zip:

Tomgirls on the bridge:

Caroline rappelling:

But now, it's time to shift gears to the upcoming Savory City

Tours in Providence, R.I. - two amazing culinary adventures. I am

especially excited about the September 18-20 tour because it includes an amazing Providence WaterFire where tens of thousands of people converge to see this series of bonfires installed on the three rivers of downtown Providence. National Geographic Traveler named it one of the 20 “must see” events in the U.S. and we are hoping to see folks from the many nearby (or far away) U.S. cities that have direct flights right into Providence. We would love to see you, too!

Action Video from Our White Mountains Adventure!

2009-07-21T12:35:00.000-04:00

You saw the photos, now videos of our tomgirls in action on the zipline Sunday! First Thea, then Vicki...

Tomgirls on an Indoor Skydiving Adventure!

2009-07-20T20:08:00.000-04:00

Another great day! After a little shopping in downtown North Conway (Tomgirl guest Lisa Nelson bought the cutest stuffed moose... and we are not sure yet if it's for her grandson or if she is going to keep it :-) Vicki Malchar, meanwhile, found her aviator sport pants - finally, yeah!

We arrived at Skyventure at around 2 p.m. and quickly went into our "aviator" class, suited up (including helmets, goggles, and ear plugs) and

headed into the wind tunnel. We had an incredible time - especially Tomgirl traveler Thea Zumwalt, who laughed the entire time she was in the tunnel. In fact her continued giggling (and screaming) made all the staff start laughing as well. You made a very positive impact Thea! Vicki had great form - maybe she was a ballerina as a child?! We think - dare we say it - that Lisa has overcome her fear of heights! She soared with her wind tunnel trainer nearly to the top. Tomgirl's intern Caroline Oppel was a smooth operator in the tunnel and she kept us clapping and laughing with her performance. What an amazing day! (That's me, above, in the wind tunnel)

Thanks for following us on Tomgirl Tours' White Mountain Adventure! We're home safe and sound now and will share video and more photos here in the next few days. Meanwhile, check out upcoming dates on our website... there are three more White Mountains Adventure tours this year!

An Exhilarating Zip = Happy Tomgirls

2009-07-19T22:39:00.000-04:00

As Day 1 of our White Mountains Adventure comes to a close, we are a happy group of tomgirls here in New Hampshire! The zip in Bretton Woods was an exhilarating experience enjoyed by all; here are a few photos of our guests gearing up earlier today (more to come, along with video, later this week!) Tomorrow we'll continue the excitement as we give indoor skydiving a shot. Stay tuned for more on that tomorrow.

Tomgirls and friends ready to zip!

Safety First

Gearing up...

Ready to go!

Our fantastic guides, Bobby and Steve

Greetings from New Hampshire!

2009-07-19T14:02:00.000-04:00

We've arrived in New Hampshire and enjoyed lunch at the beautiful Mount Washington Resort. Here's a glimpse of this beautiful hotel and the gorgeous view we're enjoying. This afternoon, we are off to zip line and are all very excited. More later from our White Mountains Adventure!

And, We're Off! (On our White Mountains Adventure)

2009-07-18T18:00:00.000-04:00

We are all ready to hit the road for Tomgirl Tours' White Mountains Adventure in New Hampshire tomorrow and everyone is very excited! We have folks flying in from the Washington, D.C. area and several others coming from different parts of Rhode Island. It looks like we are going to have perfect weather if the forecast holds up! (Which was not the case mid week and had me fretting).

I was up in New Hampshire last weekend and, with all the rain we've had in New England recently, it was the most plush, green scenery I've experienced in years - just gorgeous!

We're bringing along our newest tech gadget - the Flip Video - so we can capture our zip lining experience "in motion"... the perfect memento for guests to receive as part of their tour experience (and for us to share here on Travel for Tomgirls). Stay tuned to the blog, as we'll be posting photos and sharing stories from our trip as they happen this weekend. We can't wait to hear your comments and feedback!

So, until tomorrow, have a great day and we'll "see" you after the zip!

Welcome!

2009-07-06T14:24:00.000-04:00

Hello, and welcome to Travel for Tomgirls!

You may be asking yourself: what, exactly, is a tomgirl? As the self-proclaimed ultimate Tomgirl, let me explain: Tomgirls love the outdoors, nature and adventure; they love to explore the world—they zip line through the forest, hot air balloon above the Arizona desert, and seek out culinary expeditions and fresh local cuisine when they travel. Tomgirls enjoy challenges, yet they balance it out with some pampering and “girly” activities - like messages, private art tours, or a bit of shopping.

So, what makes me the ultimate Tomgirl? Well, I grew up on a New England farm with five older brothers and two sisters and spent my youth swimming, fishing and endlessly exploring the forests and ocean. With a childhood like that, I was hooked on nature and the outdoors from an early age. From the farm, I headed to the city in search for new adventures. I spent 25 years as a corporate executive where customer service and travel refined my tastes and broadened my perspective.

I found myself questioning: how does one blend these different interests--outdoors; nature; adventure; boutique, upscale and refined--into a new vocation that includes it all? Well, I started with a sabbatical from the corporate world and, after reflection on those passions and talents, I founded Tomgirl Tours, which has become the natural extension of both. As the CEO of Tomgirl Tours, I get to use my business and service expertise to create memorable adventure travel excursions for active women like me who love travel, adventure and the outdoors.

I’m so excited to be here blogging… sharing my love for adventure travel and new culinary experiences with others who love to do the same. If you love adventure, but haven't had enough of it lately, then you've found the perfect person to help you get outdoors. On Travel For Tomgirls, we'll talk about travel insights, personal adventure and culinary experiences, and share every exciting Tomgirl Tours journey. I can’t wait to meet all the wonderful adventurers here in the blogosphere, and hope to meet you in person on one of our Tomgirl Tours sometime soon!