What is your current state of mind?
Relaxed, as I am in Florida.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
Anywhere further south than Virginia. Virginia is becoming more and more "Northern-Yankee" every year, and even the traffic patterns along I-95 are less-hectic from NC, SC, GA, and FL. The true South immediately puts my mind at ease, and I feel better, work out more readily, the climate soothes a lot of my ailments, and I even eat better.
What is your most marked characteristic?
My loyalty to honor, trust, family and heritage. Passion and I used to have a huge desire to have the men I love(d), love me as much as I love(d) them.
What do you most value in your friends?
I value honesty, communication, and support - especially if I give it out, and have it returned to me.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Purchasing things. However, I buy them carefully and deliberately, with investment and long-term wear being the goal.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
I most overuse the phrase, "OMFG"
When and where were you happiest?
When I lived in Baltimore from 2006-2007 - just a nice/diverse city (okay I know that there is lots of crime but I never had to deal with it). The whole area is so pretty and I enjoyed sailing on occasion and working at Nordstrom was an incredible experience.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Constant health, not enough to make me live forever, but enough to make me enjoy my life fully.
What is it that you most dislike?
Liars, selfish people, and men who try to hurt/assault/damage women.
Who are your heroes in real life?
My Mother, all four of my aunts, and women who have made advances in breaking the glass ceiling.
Who are your favorite writers?
Tom Wolfe, Hemingway, Louisa May Alcott
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Selfishness, Greed, and most especially, SLOTH.
Where would you like to live?
Somewhere warm. As in, above 50 degrees year-round.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My greatest achievement is going back to school to finish my degree.
What is your motto?
Romance lives by repetition, converts an appetite into an art. Besides, each time that one loves is the only time one has ever loved. Difference of object does not alter singleness of passion. It merely intensifies it. We can have in life but one great experience at best, and the secret of life is to reproduce that experience as often as possible.
-Oscar Wilde
from The Picture of Dorian Gray
Questions taken from the February 2010 issue of Vanity Fair.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Updated entry:
Updated my recent J.Crew shopping trip entry with better photos - of my own purchases, so you can see "in real life" how they look:
http://worthingtonstyle.blogspot.com/2010/03/rare-success-at-jcrew.html
http://worthingtonstyle.blogspot.com/2010/03/rare-success-at-jcrew.html
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Spring Breakers Headed to Mexico
Over 100,000 American teenagers and young adults travel to resort areas throughout Mexico over Spring Break each year. While the vast majority enjoys their vacation without incident, several may die, hundreds will be arrested, and still more will make mistakes that could affect them for the rest of their lives. Using some common sense will help travelers avoid these unpleasant and dangerous situations.
We encourage all U.S. citizens to phone home periodically to assure family members of your safety and inform them of your whereabouts. Remember, whether you travel to Mexico by land, air, or sea, you are entering a foreign country and are subject to the laws and customs regulations of Mexico.
Entry Requirements
Effective January 23, 2007, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air to the United States from Mexico, Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport, (or if applicable, an Alien Registration Card, form I-551, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document), to enter or re-enter the United States. American citizens can visit http://travel.state.gov or call 1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778) for information on applying for a U.S. passport. Please see Mexico’s Country Specific Information for complete entry requirements.
Mexican Law
While traveling in Mexico, American citizens are subject to Mexican law. An arrest or accident in Mexico can result in a difficult legal or medical situation, sometimes at a great expense to the traveler. Mexican law can impose harsh penalties for violations that would be considered minor in the United States, and U.S. citizenship in no way exempts one from full prosecution under the Mexican criminal justice system. If U.S. citizens find themselves in legal trouble, they should contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. (see "Contact Information" below). U.S. consular officials in Mexico can visit detained American citizens in prison, provide information about the Mexican legal system, and furnish a list of Mexican attorneys, among other assistance. U.S. Consular officials cannot arrange for Mexican officials to release detained American citizens.
Alcohol and Drugs
Excessive alcohol consumption and unruly behavior can lead to serious problems with Mexican authorities. Alcohol is involved in the vast majority of arrests, accidents, violent crimes, rapes, and deaths suffered by American students on Spring Break. Disturbing the peace, lewd or indecent behavior, littering, driving under the influence, drinking on the street or on public transportation, using public transportation without payment, or making obscene or insulting remarks are all considered criminal activities by Mexican authorities. The importation, purchase, possession or use of drugs can incur severe penalties, including imprisonment without bail for up to a year before a case is tried, and imprisonment of several years following a conviction. All individuals 16 years of age or older are tried as adults.
Safety and Security
Standards of security, safety, and supervision may not reach the levels expected in the United States. This has contributed to the deaths of U.S. citizens in automobile accidents, after falls from balconies or into unmarked ditches, by drowning in the ocean as well as in hotel pools, and in water-sports mishaps, among others.
Warning flags on beaches should be taken seriously. If black or red flags are up, do not enter the water. Strong undertow and rough surf are common along beaches throughout Mexico, especially on the Pacific coast, and drownings have occurred when swimmers have been overwhelmed by conditions. Swimming pool drain systems may not comply with U.S. safety standards and swimmers should exercise caution. Do not swim in pools or at beaches without lifeguards. Do not dive into unknown bodies of water, because hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death. If you choose to swim, always exercise extreme caution.
Use only the licensed and regulated "sitio" (SEE-tee-oh) taxis. Some illegitimate taxi drivers are, in fact, criminals in search of victims; users of these taxis have been robbed, kidnapped, and/or raped. Hotels, clubs and restaurants will summon a sitio taxi upon request.
Firearms and Knives
It is best not to carry even a pocketknife into Mexico as this can result in a weapons charge if a knife is found on a traveler who is arrested for a separate offense. Visitors driving across the border should ensure that their vehicles contain no firearms or ammunition. Mexico imposes harsh penalties for bringing as little as one bullet across its borders.
Renting and Operating Vehicles and other Equipment
Visitors should exercise caution when renting vehicles, including jet skis and mopeds. Many are not serviced and in poor condition, and many are uninsured or under-insured. Read rental contracts carefully to be sure your own insurance will cover you in the event of an accident, if the rental company's insurance is not adequate. Drivers of any vehicle, including jet skis and mopeds, should exercise extreme caution and ask the rental agency about local laws and procedures before operating the vehicle. The Department of State has received reports of equipment rental operators using locals to form a “mob” to intimidate customers into paying exorbitant amounts for damage to rented equipment.
Operators of any vehicle that causes damage to other vehicles or injuries to other people may be arrested and held in custody until full payment is made, either in cash or through insurance.
Driving in Mexico
American citizens planning on driving to Mexico should carry a valid driver’s license at all times. U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires that vehicles be driven only by their owners, or that the owner be inside the vehicle. If not, the car may be seized by Mexican customs and will not be returned under any circumstances. We strongly recommend that you purchase a full coverage insurance policy that will cover the cost of bail. Please be aware that if you are involved in an automobile accident, you will be taken into police custody until it is determined who is at fault and whether you have the ability to pay any penalty.
Know Before You Go
The following cities and areas are some traditional destinations in Mexico for travelers on Spring Break. While other resort areas may not be as well-known for this type of travel, the advice contained here still applies:
Acapulco: Drug-related violence has been increasing in Acapulco. Although this violence is not targeted at foreign residents or tourists, U.S. citizens in these areas should be vigilant in their personal safety.
Avoid swimming outside the bay area. Several American citizens have died while swimming in rough surf at the Revolcadero Beach near Acapulco.
Cabo San Lucas: Beaches on the Pacific side of the Baja California Peninsula at Cabo San Lucas are dangerous due to rip tides and rogue waves; hazardous beaches in this area are clearly marked in English and Spanish.
Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel: Cancun is a fairly large city, approaching 500,000 inhabitants, with increasing reports of crime. Crimes against the person, such as rape, commonly but not exclusively occur at night or in the early morning hours, and often involve alcohol and the nightclub environment. Therefore, it is important to travel in pairs or groups, be aware of surroundings, and take general precautions. To protect against property crimes, valuables should be left in a safe place or not brought at all. If you are a victim of a crime, immediately notify the U.S. Consular Agency in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Cozumel or the U.S. Consulate in Merida at the telephone numbers provided below.
If you rent a moped or other vehicle in Cancun, it is advisable to purchase third-party insurance, as the insurance offered on some credit cards will not cover you in Mexico. Should you have an accident or cause damage to the vehicle, you may be required to pay the full amount of any repairs, in cash, as determined by the rental agency, or face arrest.
In Cancun, there is often a very strong undertow along the beach from the Hyatt Regency all the way south to Club Med. Already this season, several U.S. citizens have drowned when overwhelmed by ocean conditions. In Cozumel, several drownings and near-drownings have been reported on the east coast, particularly in the Playa San Martin-Chen Rio area.
Matamoros/South Padre Island: The Mexican border cities of Matamoros and Nuevo Progresso are located 30 to 45 minutes south of the major Spring Break destination of South Padre Island, Texas. Travelers to the Mexican border should be especially aware of safety and security concerns due to increased violence in recent years between rival drug trafficking gangs competing for control of narcotics smuggling routes. While it is unlikely that American visitors would get caught up in this violence, travelers should exercise common-sense precautions such as visiting only the well-traveled business and tourism areas of border towns during daylight and early-evening hours.
Mazatlan: While the beach town of Mazatlan is a relatively safe place to visit, travelers should use common sense and exercise normal precautions when visiting an unfamiliar location. Avoid walking the streets alone after dark, when petty crimes are much more common. Beaches can have very strong undertows and rogue waves. Swimmers should obey warning signs placed along the beaches which indicate dangerous ocean conditions.
Nogales/Sonora: Puerto Peñasco, a.k.a. “Rocky Point,” is located in northern Sonora, 60 miles from the U.S. border, and is accessible by car. The majority of accidents that occur at this Spring Break destination are caused by individuals driving under the influence of alcohol. Travelers should exercise particular caution on unpaved roads, especially in beach areas.
Oaxaca City: There have been ongoing demonstrations and protests in Oaxaca City due to civil unrest since June 2006. Several groups have engaged in violent demonstrations in Oaxaca City, which resulted in the death of an American citizen in October 2006. Prior to traveling to Oaxaca City, U.S. citizens should monitor the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City’s web site, http://mexico.usembassy.gov/mexico/citizen_services.html, as well as http://travel.state.gov for the most up to date Safety and Security information. U.S. citizens should avoid participating in demonstrations and other activities that might be deemed political by the Mexican authorities. The Mexican Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners, and such actions may result in detention and/or deportation.
Oaxaca (coastal): There have been a number of drownings along the beaches of the southern coast of Oaxaca, namely Zipolite Beach. Professional lifeguard training has contributed to a drop in fatalities, but swimmers are advised that currents can quickly become treacherous, even for accomplished swimmers.
Tijuana: Tijuana has one of the busiest land border crossings in the world. The beach towns of Rosarito and Ensenada also attract a large number of tourists. Drinking alcoholic beverages excessively on a public street is prohibited.
Tijuana boasts a large number of pharmacies; to buy any controlled medication (e.g. Valium, Vicodin, Placidyl, Morphine, Demorol, and Ativan, etc), a prescription from a Mexican federally registered physician is required. Possession of controlled medications without a Mexican doctor's prescription is a serious crime and can lead to arrest. The prescription must have a seal and serial number. Under no other circumstances should an individual purchase prescription medicines.
Register with the Embassy or Consulates
Registration with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate (in the country you are visiting) makes your presence and whereabouts known, in case it is necessary for a consular officer to contact you in an emergency. During a disaster overseas, American consular officers can assist in evacuation were that to become necessary, but they cannot assist you if they do not know where you are. You can register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration web site.
Additional Information: Travelers going to Mexico over Spring Break should refer to the Department of State’s Country Specific Information for Mexico, the publication Tips for Student Travelers, and the publication Help for American Victims of Crime Overseas.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Travel Alert, Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Contact Information: In case of a serious emergency, travelers should immediately contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City.
The U.S. Embassy is located in Mexico City at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone from the United States: 011-52-55-5080-2000; telephone within Mexico City: 5080-2000; telephone long distance within Mexico 01-55-5080-2000. You may also contact the Embassy by e-mail at: acsmexicocity@state.gov. The Embassy's Internet address is http://mexico.usembassy.gov/eng/main.html.
In addition to the Embassy, there are United States Consulates General, Consulates, and Consular Agencies located throughout Mexico:
Consulates General and Consulates:
Ciudad Juarez : Ciudad Juarez: Paseo de la Victoria #3650, telephone (52) (656) 227-3000. Flagged as violent
Guadalajara: Progreso 175, telephone (52)(333) 268-2100.
Monterrey: Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente, telephone (52)(818) 047-3100. Flagged as violent
Tijuana: Tapachula 96, telephone (52)(664) 622-7400. During non-work hours, an American official may be reached at: 011-619-692-2154 (from Mexico) or 619-692-2154 (from the U.S.). Flagged as violent
Hermosillo: Avenida Monterrey 141, telephone (52)(662) 289-3500.
Matamoros: Avenida Primera 2002, telephone (52)(868) 812-4402. Flagged as violent
Merida: 338-K Calle 60, Colonia Alcala Martin, telephone (52)(999) 942-5700.
Nogales: Calle San Jose, Nogales, Sonora, telephone (52)(631) 311-8150. Flagged as violent
Nuevo Laredo: Calle Allende 3330, Col. Jardin, telephone (52)(867) 714-0512.
Consular Agencies:
Acapulco: Hotel Continental Emporio, Costera Miguel Aleman 121 - Local 14, telephone (52)(744) 484-0300 or (52)(744) 469-0556.
Cabo San Lucas: Blvd. Marina Local C-4, Plaza Nautica, Col. Centro, telephone (52)(624) 143-3566.
Cancún: Plaza Caracol Two, Second Level, No. 320-323, Boulevard Kukulcan, Km. 8.5, Zona Hotelera, telephone (52)(998) 883-0272.
Ciudad Acuña, Ocampo # 305, Col. Centro, telephone (52)(877) 772-8661
Cozumel: Plaza Villa Mar en El Centro, Plaza Principal, (Parque Juárez between Melgar and 5th Ave.) 2nd floor, Locales #8 and 9, telephone (52)(987) 872-4574.
Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo: Hotel Fontan, Blvd. Ixtapa, telephone (52)(755) 553-2100.
Mazatlán: Hotel Playa Mazatlán, Playa Gaviotas #202, Zona Dorada, telephone (52)(669) 916-5889.
Oaxaca: Macedonio Alcalá No. 407, Interior 20, telephone (52)(951) 514-3054 (52)(951) 516-2853.
Piedras Negras: Prol. General Cepeda No. 1900, Fraccionamiento Privada Blanca, telephone (52) (878) 785-1986.
Playa del Carmen: The Palapa, Calle 1 Sur, between Avenida 15 and Avenida 20.; telephone (52)(984) 873-0303.
Puerto Vallarta: Paseo de Los Cocoteros #85 Sur, Paradise Plaza - Local L-7, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit C.P. 63732, telephone (52)(322) 222-0069.
Reynosa: Calle Monterrey #390, Esq. Sinaloa, Colonia Rodríguez, telephone: (52)(899) 923 - 9331
San Luis Potosí: Edificio "Las Terrazas", Avenida Venustiano Carranza 2076-41, Col. Polanco, telephone: (52)(444) 811-7802/7803.
San Miguel de Allende: Dr. Hernandez Macias #72, telephone (52)(415) 152-2357 or (52)(415) 152-0068.
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/spring_break_mexico/spring_break_mexico_2812.html
We encourage all U.S. citizens to phone home periodically to assure family members of your safety and inform them of your whereabouts. Remember, whether you travel to Mexico by land, air, or sea, you are entering a foreign country and are subject to the laws and customs regulations of Mexico.
Entry Requirements
Effective January 23, 2007, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air to the United States from Mexico, Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport, (or if applicable, an Alien Registration Card, form I-551, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document), to enter or re-enter the United States. American citizens can visit http://travel.state.gov or call 1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778) for information on applying for a U.S. passport. Please see Mexico’s Country Specific Information for complete entry requirements.
Mexican Law
While traveling in Mexico, American citizens are subject to Mexican law. An arrest or accident in Mexico can result in a difficult legal or medical situation, sometimes at a great expense to the traveler. Mexican law can impose harsh penalties for violations that would be considered minor in the United States, and U.S. citizenship in no way exempts one from full prosecution under the Mexican criminal justice system. If U.S. citizens find themselves in legal trouble, they should contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. (see "Contact Information" below). U.S. consular officials in Mexico can visit detained American citizens in prison, provide information about the Mexican legal system, and furnish a list of Mexican attorneys, among other assistance. U.S. Consular officials cannot arrange for Mexican officials to release detained American citizens.
Alcohol and Drugs
Excessive alcohol consumption and unruly behavior can lead to serious problems with Mexican authorities. Alcohol is involved in the vast majority of arrests, accidents, violent crimes, rapes, and deaths suffered by American students on Spring Break. Disturbing the peace, lewd or indecent behavior, littering, driving under the influence, drinking on the street or on public transportation, using public transportation without payment, or making obscene or insulting remarks are all considered criminal activities by Mexican authorities. The importation, purchase, possession or use of drugs can incur severe penalties, including imprisonment without bail for up to a year before a case is tried, and imprisonment of several years following a conviction. All individuals 16 years of age or older are tried as adults.
Safety and Security
Standards of security, safety, and supervision may not reach the levels expected in the United States. This has contributed to the deaths of U.S. citizens in automobile accidents, after falls from balconies or into unmarked ditches, by drowning in the ocean as well as in hotel pools, and in water-sports mishaps, among others.
Warning flags on beaches should be taken seriously. If black or red flags are up, do not enter the water. Strong undertow and rough surf are common along beaches throughout Mexico, especially on the Pacific coast, and drownings have occurred when swimmers have been overwhelmed by conditions. Swimming pool drain systems may not comply with U.S. safety standards and swimmers should exercise caution. Do not swim in pools or at beaches without lifeguards. Do not dive into unknown bodies of water, because hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death. If you choose to swim, always exercise extreme caution.
Use only the licensed and regulated "sitio" (SEE-tee-oh) taxis. Some illegitimate taxi drivers are, in fact, criminals in search of victims; users of these taxis have been robbed, kidnapped, and/or raped. Hotels, clubs and restaurants will summon a sitio taxi upon request.
Firearms and Knives
It is best not to carry even a pocketknife into Mexico as this can result in a weapons charge if a knife is found on a traveler who is arrested for a separate offense. Visitors driving across the border should ensure that their vehicles contain no firearms or ammunition. Mexico imposes harsh penalties for bringing as little as one bullet across its borders.
Renting and Operating Vehicles and other Equipment
Visitors should exercise caution when renting vehicles, including jet skis and mopeds. Many are not serviced and in poor condition, and many are uninsured or under-insured. Read rental contracts carefully to be sure your own insurance will cover you in the event of an accident, if the rental company's insurance is not adequate. Drivers of any vehicle, including jet skis and mopeds, should exercise extreme caution and ask the rental agency about local laws and procedures before operating the vehicle. The Department of State has received reports of equipment rental operators using locals to form a “mob” to intimidate customers into paying exorbitant amounts for damage to rented equipment.
Operators of any vehicle that causes damage to other vehicles or injuries to other people may be arrested and held in custody until full payment is made, either in cash or through insurance.
Driving in Mexico
American citizens planning on driving to Mexico should carry a valid driver’s license at all times. U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires that vehicles be driven only by their owners, or that the owner be inside the vehicle. If not, the car may be seized by Mexican customs and will not be returned under any circumstances. We strongly recommend that you purchase a full coverage insurance policy that will cover the cost of bail. Please be aware that if you are involved in an automobile accident, you will be taken into police custody until it is determined who is at fault and whether you have the ability to pay any penalty.
Know Before You Go
The following cities and areas are some traditional destinations in Mexico for travelers on Spring Break. While other resort areas may not be as well-known for this type of travel, the advice contained here still applies:
Acapulco: Drug-related violence has been increasing in Acapulco. Although this violence is not targeted at foreign residents or tourists, U.S. citizens in these areas should be vigilant in their personal safety.
Avoid swimming outside the bay area. Several American citizens have died while swimming in rough surf at the Revolcadero Beach near Acapulco.
Cabo San Lucas: Beaches on the Pacific side of the Baja California Peninsula at Cabo San Lucas are dangerous due to rip tides and rogue waves; hazardous beaches in this area are clearly marked in English and Spanish.
Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel: Cancun is a fairly large city, approaching 500,000 inhabitants, with increasing reports of crime. Crimes against the person, such as rape, commonly but not exclusively occur at night or in the early morning hours, and often involve alcohol and the nightclub environment. Therefore, it is important to travel in pairs or groups, be aware of surroundings, and take general precautions. To protect against property crimes, valuables should be left in a safe place or not brought at all. If you are a victim of a crime, immediately notify the U.S. Consular Agency in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Cozumel or the U.S. Consulate in Merida at the telephone numbers provided below.
If you rent a moped or other vehicle in Cancun, it is advisable to purchase third-party insurance, as the insurance offered on some credit cards will not cover you in Mexico. Should you have an accident or cause damage to the vehicle, you may be required to pay the full amount of any repairs, in cash, as determined by the rental agency, or face arrest.
In Cancun, there is often a very strong undertow along the beach from the Hyatt Regency all the way south to Club Med. Already this season, several U.S. citizens have drowned when overwhelmed by ocean conditions. In Cozumel, several drownings and near-drownings have been reported on the east coast, particularly in the Playa San Martin-Chen Rio area.
Matamoros/South Padre Island: The Mexican border cities of Matamoros and Nuevo Progresso are located 30 to 45 minutes south of the major Spring Break destination of South Padre Island, Texas. Travelers to the Mexican border should be especially aware of safety and security concerns due to increased violence in recent years between rival drug trafficking gangs competing for control of narcotics smuggling routes. While it is unlikely that American visitors would get caught up in this violence, travelers should exercise common-sense precautions such as visiting only the well-traveled business and tourism areas of border towns during daylight and early-evening hours.
Mazatlan: While the beach town of Mazatlan is a relatively safe place to visit, travelers should use common sense and exercise normal precautions when visiting an unfamiliar location. Avoid walking the streets alone after dark, when petty crimes are much more common. Beaches can have very strong undertows and rogue waves. Swimmers should obey warning signs placed along the beaches which indicate dangerous ocean conditions.
Nogales/Sonora: Puerto Peñasco, a.k.a. “Rocky Point,” is located in northern Sonora, 60 miles from the U.S. border, and is accessible by car. The majority of accidents that occur at this Spring Break destination are caused by individuals driving under the influence of alcohol. Travelers should exercise particular caution on unpaved roads, especially in beach areas.
Oaxaca City: There have been ongoing demonstrations and protests in Oaxaca City due to civil unrest since June 2006. Several groups have engaged in violent demonstrations in Oaxaca City, which resulted in the death of an American citizen in October 2006. Prior to traveling to Oaxaca City, U.S. citizens should monitor the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City’s web site, http://mexico.usembassy.gov/mexico/citizen_services.html, as well as http://travel.state.gov for the most up to date Safety and Security information. U.S. citizens should avoid participating in demonstrations and other activities that might be deemed political by the Mexican authorities. The Mexican Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners, and such actions may result in detention and/or deportation.
Oaxaca (coastal): There have been a number of drownings along the beaches of the southern coast of Oaxaca, namely Zipolite Beach. Professional lifeguard training has contributed to a drop in fatalities, but swimmers are advised that currents can quickly become treacherous, even for accomplished swimmers.
Tijuana: Tijuana has one of the busiest land border crossings in the world. The beach towns of Rosarito and Ensenada also attract a large number of tourists. Drinking alcoholic beverages excessively on a public street is prohibited.
Tijuana boasts a large number of pharmacies; to buy any controlled medication (e.g. Valium, Vicodin, Placidyl, Morphine, Demorol, and Ativan, etc), a prescription from a Mexican federally registered physician is required. Possession of controlled medications without a Mexican doctor's prescription is a serious crime and can lead to arrest. The prescription must have a seal and serial number. Under no other circumstances should an individual purchase prescription medicines.
Register with the Embassy or Consulates
Registration with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate (in the country you are visiting) makes your presence and whereabouts known, in case it is necessary for a consular officer to contact you in an emergency. During a disaster overseas, American consular officers can assist in evacuation were that to become necessary, but they cannot assist you if they do not know where you are. You can register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration web site.
Additional Information: Travelers going to Mexico over Spring Break should refer to the Department of State’s Country Specific Information for Mexico, the publication Tips for Student Travelers, and the publication Help for American Victims of Crime Overseas.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Travel Alert, Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Contact Information: In case of a serious emergency, travelers should immediately contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City.
The U.S. Embassy is located in Mexico City at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone from the United States: 011-52-55-5080-2000; telephone within Mexico City: 5080-2000; telephone long distance within Mexico 01-55-5080-2000. You may also contact the Embassy by e-mail at: acsmexicocity@state.gov. The Embassy's Internet address is http://mexico.usembassy.gov/eng/main.html.
In addition to the Embassy, there are United States Consulates General, Consulates, and Consular Agencies located throughout Mexico:
Consulates General and Consulates:
Ciudad Juarez : Ciudad Juarez: Paseo de la Victoria #3650, telephone (52) (656) 227-3000. Flagged as violent
Guadalajara: Progreso 175, telephone (52)(333) 268-2100.
Monterrey: Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente, telephone (52)(818) 047-3100. Flagged as violent
Tijuana: Tapachula 96, telephone (52)(664) 622-7400. During non-work hours, an American official may be reached at: 011-619-692-2154 (from Mexico) or 619-692-2154 (from the U.S.). Flagged as violent
Hermosillo: Avenida Monterrey 141, telephone (52)(662) 289-3500.
Matamoros: Avenida Primera 2002, telephone (52)(868) 812-4402. Flagged as violent
Merida: 338-K Calle 60, Colonia Alcala Martin, telephone (52)(999) 942-5700.
Nogales: Calle San Jose, Nogales, Sonora, telephone (52)(631) 311-8150. Flagged as violent
Nuevo Laredo: Calle Allende 3330, Col. Jardin, telephone (52)(867) 714-0512.
Consular Agencies:
Acapulco: Hotel Continental Emporio, Costera Miguel Aleman 121 - Local 14, telephone (52)(744) 484-0300 or (52)(744) 469-0556.
Cabo San Lucas: Blvd. Marina Local C-4, Plaza Nautica, Col. Centro, telephone (52)(624) 143-3566.
Cancún: Plaza Caracol Two, Second Level, No. 320-323, Boulevard Kukulcan, Km. 8.5, Zona Hotelera, telephone (52)(998) 883-0272.
Ciudad Acuña, Ocampo # 305, Col. Centro, telephone (52)(877) 772-8661
Cozumel: Plaza Villa Mar en El Centro, Plaza Principal, (Parque Juárez between Melgar and 5th Ave.) 2nd floor, Locales #8 and 9, telephone (52)(987) 872-4574.
Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo: Hotel Fontan, Blvd. Ixtapa, telephone (52)(755) 553-2100.
Mazatlán: Hotel Playa Mazatlán, Playa Gaviotas #202, Zona Dorada, telephone (52)(669) 916-5889.
Oaxaca: Macedonio Alcalá No. 407, Interior 20, telephone (52)(951) 514-3054 (52)(951) 516-2853.
Piedras Negras: Prol. General Cepeda No. 1900, Fraccionamiento Privada Blanca, telephone (52) (878) 785-1986.
Playa del Carmen: The Palapa, Calle 1 Sur, between Avenida 15 and Avenida 20.; telephone (52)(984) 873-0303.
Puerto Vallarta: Paseo de Los Cocoteros #85 Sur, Paradise Plaza - Local L-7, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit C.P. 63732, telephone (52)(322) 222-0069.
Reynosa: Calle Monterrey #390, Esq. Sinaloa, Colonia Rodríguez, telephone: (52)(899) 923 - 9331
San Luis Potosí: Edificio "Las Terrazas", Avenida Venustiano Carranza 2076-41, Col. Polanco, telephone: (52)(444) 811-7802/7803.
San Miguel de Allende: Dr. Hernandez Macias #72, telephone (52)(415) 152-2357 or (52)(415) 152-0068.
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/spring_break_mexico/spring_break_mexico_2812.html
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Keds Love
Keds have been around for ages (1916, so almost a century!!!). My grandmother wears them gardening in her cropped pants and Brooks Brothers blouses (like the navy ones above, which are called Champion, one of their classic styles). They are a great wardrobe staple for all kinds of reasons, but mostly because they aren't overpriced and are comfortable.
Even though I can't figure out why she is wearing a pink bib, this look is better, although these Keds look like a ripoff of Vans. However, this may have been when she was dating her nasty mess of an ex-BF "rocker" Cisco Adler?? I like the mossy green color. I think it's fun to match clothes with shoes, its entertaining with sneakers!! :
However, these are ugly:
I don't know what Mischa was thinking but those shoes she "designed" are a disaster.
Here is another pair I like called the Meadow Blue Moc, cute huh?:
All photos property of Keds.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Brogue Shoes in Spring 2010 fashion
In Gaelic, "brog" means shoe, so brogues have been around for a loooong time!
Bloch London Women's Brogue Flats for less than $200. This line is popular with dancers, but I know I don't dance anymore and appreciate the comfort these shoes provide...
Brogue shoes... some of you may say, "ew" while others say, "shoes men wear?"
Well, in fact, brogues are not a new style for women to wear. While in the past few decades they have been worn by men who work in funeral homes, ruined by Doc Martens, etc, the brogue was a huge fashion statement in the 1930s - post-WWII United States. They are often confused with oxfords, but they are very similar!
Even Queen Elizabeth II wore brogues, especially around Balmoral, as you can see here in this Getty Images photograph from the field:
The word brogue is defined by Webster's Dictionary as, "an Irish accent in the pronunciation of English" or "any strong regional accent". However, it is also defined as, "a coarse, usually untanned leather shoe once worn in Ireland and Scotland" and "a durable, comfortable, low-heeled shoe, often having decorative perforations and a wing tip".
Norma Shearer is working it with the brogues. Love the look, I'd wear this outfit to watch a golf tournament on a cool early Spring or Fall day (from Seraphic Press):
Katharine Hepburn made them very popular as well, and this look is how I am most familiar with brogues (from: Disconaplondon):
However, we have modern-day celebrities who worked the brogue look last summer, here we have Olivia Palermo and Emma Watson (from Eonline):
If I were to wear brogues to school or work, this may be how I would do it. Isn't she pretty and comfortable, without looking like a slob? Note the jewelry, the relaxed hairstyle, the warm-weather scarf, and the rolled up relaxed shorts... this is from last October. (from the Sartorialist):
I am a big believer in wearing what you find comfortable from the inside out- then again, I have a lot of interesting lingerie I have accrued over the years... ANYWAY, shoes I think are most important to be comfortable in. Who wants to look like a hot mess going down the street in shoes you don't feel good in? A lot of people will not like brogues because they are soooo menswear-ish, but a lot of other readers may find they put a new spin on the same outfits you have worn all along!
High end - Fratelli Rossetti for $490.00 on Zappos.com
Medium-end - Boutique 9 for $150.00 on Zappos.com. I like these because they are Hepburn-esque and toned down.
Low-end - Franco Sarto for $78.95 on Zappos.com. I like these because they come in black or ocean. The ocean shade is just sooo pretty!
Some people even used to wear them for tennis or golf, as they went better with their longer skirts rather than the more popular short skirt/skort-sneaker look that we are familiar with today...
So, what do you all think of brogues?
Bloch London Women's Brogue Flats for less than $200. This line is popular with dancers, but I know I don't dance anymore and appreciate the comfort these shoes provide...
Brogue shoes... some of you may say, "ew" while others say, "shoes men wear?"
Well, in fact, brogues are not a new style for women to wear. While in the past few decades they have been worn by men who work in funeral homes, ruined by Doc Martens, etc, the brogue was a huge fashion statement in the 1930s - post-WWII United States. They are often confused with oxfords, but they are very similar!
Even Queen Elizabeth II wore brogues, especially around Balmoral, as you can see here in this Getty Images photograph from the field:
The word brogue is defined by Webster's Dictionary as, "an Irish accent in the pronunciation of English" or "any strong regional accent". However, it is also defined as, "a coarse, usually untanned leather shoe once worn in Ireland and Scotland" and "a durable, comfortable, low-heeled shoe, often having decorative perforations and a wing tip".
Norma Shearer is working it with the brogues. Love the look, I'd wear this outfit to watch a golf tournament on a cool early Spring or Fall day (from Seraphic Press):
Katharine Hepburn made them very popular as well, and this look is how I am most familiar with brogues (from: Disconaplondon):
However, we have modern-day celebrities who worked the brogue look last summer, here we have Olivia Palermo and Emma Watson (from Eonline):
If I were to wear brogues to school or work, this may be how I would do it. Isn't she pretty and comfortable, without looking like a slob? Note the jewelry, the relaxed hairstyle, the warm-weather scarf, and the rolled up relaxed shorts... this is from last October. (from the Sartorialist):
I am a big believer in wearing what you find comfortable from the inside out- then again, I have a lot of interesting lingerie I have accrued over the years... ANYWAY, shoes I think are most important to be comfortable in. Who wants to look like a hot mess going down the street in shoes you don't feel good in? A lot of people will not like brogues because they are soooo menswear-ish, but a lot of other readers may find they put a new spin on the same outfits you have worn all along!
High end - Fratelli Rossetti for $490.00 on Zappos.com
Medium-end - Boutique 9 for $150.00 on Zappos.com. I like these because they are Hepburn-esque and toned down.
Low-end - Franco Sarto for $78.95 on Zappos.com. I like these because they come in black or ocean. The ocean shade is just sooo pretty!
Some people even used to wear them for tennis or golf, as they went better with their longer skirts rather than the more popular short skirt/skort-sneaker look that we are familiar with today...
So, what do you all think of brogues?
Monday, March 8, 2010
Rare success at J.Crew!
[logo property of J.Crew]
PBF and I HAD to go to J.Crew this weekend.
He had a gift card from Christmas to spend, and I had a rewards card from my J.Crew credit card. So, we went to the Charlottesville store.
I had a list of things I would be willing to get at the store this weekend:
* NO RUFFLES
* NO baby pastel colors
* NO jeans or winter-weight items
And I had success!
I purchased two Haberdashery 3/4 stretch tops in a Tiffany Blue [no idea actual name, not on J.Crew website?] and Sweet Papaya:
Here is my personal photo:
I needed another neutral pair of comfy Spring/Summer shorts- esp since I am headed to SC and FL soon, so I got a paid of these, which the store had rolled up a bit and I pictured me doing that with my Sperrys. These are REALLY comfy cotton. Not their normal stiff-but-comfy cotton shorts. These are way better and are great in cognac:
Here is my personal photo:
Lastly, I wanted a black summer-weight mini. Not legs up to there mini, but one I could pair with different items to dress it up or down. I wanted something I could wear high-waisted or low-waisted, prefereably with an elastic waistband so I could be comfy in it (like when I am driving long distances, say, on vacay). I tend to go for a fun bell shape or anything with airiness to it as I am hourglassy and like to emphasize that with my legs, so this skirt in Clean Rinse Wash is what I went with:
Here is my personal photo of it:
Amazing thing is, before taxes, I spent LESS than $200 on FOUR items from J.Crew. Shocking, right? PBF was jealous. But he did get a cute linen shirt - as the ones from J.Crew fit him better than other stores... again, a color not on their website. It's the Baird McNutt in a cobalt blue, really really handsome on him. : )
Lastly, if you go to the Cville store, as for Michelle - she was a great help and very attentive.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
working sunday
Plan pour aujourd'hui: read for China class, work on PSCI301 homework 2+3 & research design, go over EVST305/405 study plan for edits/grammar, read articles for Env Policy
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Giving Back
Property of Variety
By now, if you haven't heard that Roger Ebert has been suffering, and now in remission, from thyroid cancer - then you live in a hole. Or, you aren't a real movie fan.
Photo property of Esquire magazine
Regardless, I have always seen him as an admirable, talented individual. How many people can you count that have won the Pulitzer Prize in Journalism, when most of their writing (10,000+) is movie reviews? He isn't dry or humorless. He actually writes about the film, its nuances, provides background on the cast and crew, and is honest.
He was on Oprah yesterday, and you should check that out. There are two clips on the website out of a roughly 13-15 minute interview.
He has a blog he keeps now, and you should read it. Yes, he is politically different from me, but I am not closed-minded and am willing to read his opinion as he is highly educated, well-read, and worldly. I have always enjoyed a good debate/discussion.
He has a Twitter, you should follow him.
And if you really want to catch up on lost time, read the Esquire interview that catches you up on everything since 2002. He is The Essential Man.
I joined The Ebert Club today. $4.99 on Paypal. Simple, easy. I am always willing to give back to someone who has saved me money.
This was the comment I submitted to his journal:
Mr. Ebert -
I am a college student who grew up in a film-heavy household with a father who was a Theater major (since Film wasn't an option at W&L in the 1970s). We watched movies every weekend, whether at home or in the movie theater. I grew up watching your show with Gene Siskel with my father when I was small, and it was fun to bond over and look forward to your reviews so we could determine what movies we were going to see next. My entire family was moved to tears by the Esquire story, and I have enjoyed following your website/journal. Yesterday your interview with Oprah was intense and personal for me as my Aunt has suffered from, and survived mouth cancer THREE times, and it made me realize how grateful I should be for my own health. I was more than happy to join the Ebert Club for $4.99, not for the features, but to be able to give something back to you. Break it down this way, all of the good movies you have reviewed I have seen, and at $5.00-9.00 a ticket for movies I may have seen if you hadn't said how "thumbs down" they were, makes even more sense to give back to you. You have saved me a lot of money, and you are an individual whose writing has been inspirational for quite some time.
Thank you
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