Holiday Gift Guide

If you're doing some holiday shopping for the travel lovers in your life, I created a small gift guide with some favorite things - items I frequently use, as well as travel-inspired gifts. While holiday shopping can be overwhelming and excessive, I know it can also be fun and meaningful to exchange gifts with your loved ones.

If you’re looking to gift experiences, we’re offering gift cards that can be used for travel planning at two different levels:

$200 Travel Consultation Call: This is a wonderful option if you'd like to run any travel-related questions by our team to receive our feedback, tips, and recommendations, and might be a great fit as you are starting to conceptualize your trip.

$500 Travel Planning Services: For those looking to utilize our team in assistance planning an upcoming trip. Whether you want someone to plan your entire trip, or you just want help with specific requests.

TRAVEL BOOKS

Travel books are one of my favorite gifts to give and receive. It’s the perfect way to escape to the countryside or the beach from the comfort of your own home when travel isn’t possible. It’s also a great conversation starter when you’re hosting and these are displayed. It’s fun to daydream with friends about future trips together while poring over these books and adding new destinations to our wishlists.

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL GEAR & ACCESSORIES

After all of my years traveling via planes, trains, and automobiles; I’ve become particular about the travel gear and accessories I use. They have to withstand a lot of miles and not fall apart after a few trips. I’ve found that investing in quality pieces means you’re spending less in the end. So while that trendy new bag might be appealing, I rely on these classics.

TRAVEL-INSPIRED GIFTS

To remind your giftees of their favorite destinations, travel-inspired gifts are a great idea. In addition to the travel books, you can find destination-focused gifts such as candles, totes, and attire. For Anglophiles, royal-favorite Fortnum & Mason ships to the US and Canada! From their extremely popular hampers and gift baskets to tea and biscuits; Fortum & Mason never disappoints.

STOCKING STUFFERS

These gifts are perfect for stocking stuffers. From a nice passport case to leather luggage tags and card cases, I find that these are travel items that people don’t tend to purchase for themselves as often. Travel-sized beauty items are also great choices and are perfect for those long-haul flights.

FOR THE GUYS

Don’t forget about travel gifts for the guys! Sometimes the guys in your life can be the hardest to buy gifts for. I’m lucky in that my husband loves to travel as much as I do so I know he’ll appreciate these items when we’re off to a new destination or when we’re at home in London.

Regardless of whether or not you’re in the market for any items on this travel-inspired gift guide, I hope your holiday season is filled with lots of  love, joy & happiness!

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What to Pack for Morocco

We’re getting ready to host our first Atlas Adventures Privé trip to Morocco! Not all destinations are well suited for a group of 20+ women so we launched our Privé trips designed for 12-14 people, providing a more intimate and exclusive experience. We’ll be in a few different locales- from city, to desert, to mountains- so I’m packing lots of layers to accommodate the different temperatures.

Weather in Morocco

Morocco has a four-season climate. It’s not all hot desert and depending on where you are in the country, the temperatures will vary. We’re visiting in the fall and temperatures fluctuate quite a bit so the more you can add and remove layers, the more comfortable you'll be. Always check the weather beforehand, but temperatures can range between 59-70 degrees during the day and as low as 45 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening. Overall, I’m packing many of the same wardrobe items that I would pack for a trip during shoulder season and early fall.

What to Pack for Morocco

As you may know, Morocco is a little more reserved in terms of dress, but this doesn’t mean you have to cover up head-to-toe. Everyone we’ve met continues to tell us not to worry about this and to dress however we’d like. However, I like to show respect to the cultures I’m visiting and I typically will either have my shoulders or knees covered. I might wear long pants, or a long skirt but wear a sleeveless top. I do this more when we’re in the markets, in the mountains, or when visiting local families. I recommend having an extra layer with you that you can easily throw over your shoulders if needed. Overall, do what makes you most comfortable.

Pants & Dresses

Long and flowy dresses and skirts suit the overall vibe of Morocco and will keep you cool if it’s terribly hot. A loose linen pant would also be a great option. Any of these would be perfect for walking around the souks and if you’re visiting the mountain region. You’ll be covered and still feel comfortable. You can easily wear these as well for any nicer restaurants you may go to in the evening. Or you could pack a pair of classic black pants and pair it with a variety of blouses and shirts. There’s a reason black pants are so versatile!

shirts & Sweaters

For this time of year, I would likely bring a few lighter sweaters to wear over a blouse or classic-fit t-shirt. I always recommend packing lightweight layers on trips like these. The days will typically be warm and only in the mornings and evenings will you want a heavier layer. We’re spending one evening in the desert, which has the potential to be cold. If you’re planning on staying overnight in the desert (which I definitely recommend!), you’ll want to pack something a bit warmer.

Shoes, outerwear & Accessories

One of your most versatile items to pack for Morocco is a shawl. This is handy to have in your bag if you ever want to cover your shoulders quickly. I tend to carry around a very light, oversized shawl like a cardigan that I can throw on if I feel I need to cover up a little more. I would typically pack a leather or denim jacket, or trench coat.

As with any trip, you’ll want to pack comfortable shoes that are broken in and you can do a lot of walking in. Be prepared for them to get dusty! You likely won’t be doing any long or difficult walks but the terrain in the souks and the desert can be uneven and dirty. You’ll also want a purse that zips to prevent pickpocketing. Petty theft is not common among tourists, but it’s always important to be vigilant about these things and pay close attention to your belongings any time you travel.

I always pack a swimsuit as our accommodations have pools and the days should be warm enough for a swim. Plus, it doesn’t take up too much space in your suitcase. With any trip, be sure to pack sunglasses, a small umbrella in case of rain, and a reusable water bottle.

Helpful Information for Morocco

There are a few additional tips I want to share if you’re planning on visiting anytime soon. Cash is everything in Morocco. Many of the modern stores and souk vendors will take a credit card when purchasing large items like a rug or furniture, but most places will only accept cash. It can be difficult to get a good exchange rate both inside and outside of Morocco. The best way to get cash is from an ATM in the country or by exchanging USD cash for MAD. At the ATM there is a limit on transactions and you are only allowed to take out 2000 MAD ($200 USD) per time.

You’ll also need an E-SIM or alternative for your phone - Morocco is not usually somewhere your provider will cover. I typically use an E-Sim with Airalo. Or, there are a few different phone stores at the airport selling SIM cards. These SIM cards last 30 days and will give you enough data for the whole trip.

Those are my top recommendations for what to pack for Morocco! If visiting this beautiful country is on your travel bucket list, we’d love to help you plan your trip! Schedule a consult with us to utilize our planning services.

This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from, at no cost to you. 

What to Pack for Fall in Europe

The transition from summer to fall in Europe can be such a magical time. Those early fall days have such an energetic feeling to them. September to October is such an under-appreciated time to visit. Most of the influx of summer tourists are gone and it’s an ideal time to visit as there are still plenty of festivals and events happening. 

fall Weather in Europe

As with the typical fall season, there are a range of temperatures every day. It is typically still warm during the daytime but you’ll have cooler mornings and evenings. You never know how the weather will change from day to day so it’s best to be prepared for anything. You may get a trip full of warm, sunny days or you may get gray, rainy days. Always check the forecast before you leave so you have an idea of what to expect while you’re there.

What to pack for fall in Europe

You’ll want to pack plenty of layers to accommodate the flux in temperatures. The mornings can be crisp and chilly before warming up in the afternoon. Bring lightweight sweaters, cardigans, and jackets that you can easily add or remove. Rain is always a possibility, regardless of the season. Waterproof shoes and a compact, travel-size umbrella that can easily fit in your day bag will be essential. 

Pack versatile clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched to create different looks. Think neutral colors and classic pieces that can adapt to various weather conditions. That way you’ll be prepared for any situation.

Jackets & Outerwear

You’ll want to have a few options for outerwear during the fall season in Europe. I would pack my lightest one and then wear the heavier one on the plane to save as much suitcase space as possible. A trench coat is a must for fall and is a classic wardrobe staple for a reason. Worn open to showcase your outfit or cinched at the waist with a chic scarf, you can’t go wrong. A denim jacket is also a good idea for the day and I love a chic, leather jacket for the evenings. These are all the perfect third pieces to elevate any outfit. A lightweight wool coat would be ideal if you’re coming towards the later months of fall and need a bit more warmth.

Lightweight Sweaters & blouses

Europe in the fall calls for lightweight sweaters to stay warm during the cooler days and evenings. Pack a few of your favorite sweaters in classic neutral tones that can be paired with different bottoms for various looks. It also looks chic draped over your shoulders if you get too warm. Thinner sweaters will keep you from overheating while walking around all day.  

A classic button-up is always an easy outfit winner. Tucked into jeans and pants or worn open over a dress or skirt, there are multiple ways to style a button-up without feeling dated. I recommend layering your favorite tees, tanks, or bodysuits underneath any top or sweater so that you can easily shed this layer if needed. Lightweight long-sleeve blouses are a staple in my closet and can be worn in almost any season.

Dresses, Skirts & Pants

I always recommend packing at least one easy dress or skirt that you can wear around town during the day but also works for a nicer dinner out or a trip to the theatre. Skirts and dresses can easily be dressed up or down to suit your day and for chilly evenings, you can add a pair of tights. However, a nice pair of trousers can easily work in this situation as well if you prefer pants over dresses and skirts.

A few pairs of jeans and trousers will see you through most weather situations. Pair your jeans with a favorite tee or button-up for a casual day exploring. Or combine them with a lightweight sweater and loafers. Trousers are a great alternative to jeans and an easy way to dress up an outfit. 

Shoes & Accessories

With so much to see and explore in Europe, comfortable walking shoes are a necessity. You’ll want shoes that can withstand long days of sightseeing during the day. A comfortable sneaker is essential with all the walking you’ll likely be doing. Waterproof shoes such as Chelsea boots can easily be paired with any outfit, even if rain isn’t in the forecast. I have a post dedicated to the three shoes you need for Europe that has several of my favorites.

I always travel with a scarf of some sort. Whether a silk one to accessorize an outfit or a warmer one I can use for chilly mornings and evenings, you won’t regret packing one. A small backpack, shoulder, or tote bag can be handy for carrying your essentials, along with a water bottle and umbrella. It’s also great to keep one of your extra layers.

Packing for Fall in Europe requires a bit of planning to ensure that you're equipped to enjoy the beauty and charm of your destination. My biggest takeaways are packing easy layers and rain gear so you’re prepared for any situation.

This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from, at no cost to you.