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Travel Diary: Getting ready for Bangkok

Renae Virata — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:54:37 +0000

Photo | New Mandala

by Renae Virata

I can hardly believe it’s mid-January already – only one and a half months until my big trips to Thailand and India! Serendipitously, I came across an article touting the amazing stores and features of a new mall in Bangkok called Terminal 21 that I will be sure to check out and review for you guys via video, tweets, and posts.

Terminal 21 boasts more than 600 (yes, 600!) new stores on nine floors, each of which represents a different world region or capital city and decorated to match. For example, the Caribbean is on the bottom floor while you can explore Rome, Paris, Tokyo, and Instanbul as you make your way up. Imagine, two of our favorite things at WeareverTheWeather.com in one place – travel and shopping!

Photo | New Mandala

You can check out the deets at the Terminal 21 website. Have you ever visited this mega-mall or plan to? Leave a comment and let us know what you thought or what you’re excited about!

Resort 2012

Renae Virata — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 23:09:45 +0000

by Renae Virata

A break from the winter doldrums is just what many of us need. So if you’re lucky enough to make an escape to somewhere warm and far away, then you need to trade in your sweaters and boots for brightly-colored tanks and sandals.You can get a head start on your spring and summer wardrobes with the fabulous resortwear on racks now. Despite the limited selection this time of year, it’s easy to put together the few chic looks you’ll need for your trip.

Rebecca Minkoff offers a sophisticated and breezy collection of brightly colored pieces that go well together – no work required! We’re especially digging the bright blue pants in a nouveau seventies cut.

Click here to see all resort looks by Rebecca Minkoff >>

Left outfit: Rebecca Minkoff Hali shorts (multiple colors), $188; printed top, $278. Right outfit: Rebecca Minkoff turquoise Sanna pants, $298; Alissa Cami, $198.

The secret to a beautifully unfussy resort wardrobe is surprisingly easy:

Stick to two or three bright colors and intersperse with one neutral.
A pair of shorts or pants, a tank, a long sleeve blouse that doubles as a cover-up, a day dress, a night dress, a cardigan, casual sandals (wedge if you need height!) and a pair of bright-colored heels for night can take you through three to four days.
Accessories are key! A pair of statement earrings or a statement necklace can dress up a tank for night while natural pieces made of wood or stones can decorate a casual look.
Don’t be afraid to mix colors! This is what gives a resort wardrobe mileage (and interest in those pics you’ll be posting).
Don’t forget your bag! A simple python shoulder bag can take you from the plane to day to night and goes with all colors. (Check out the Rebecca Minkoff silver snakeskin version here.)

Rebecca Minkoff Silver Snake Embossed Purse, $450

What to wear in Bali

Renae Virata — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:39:36 +0000

Photo | BridalCookie.com

by Dee Mason

Bali, also known as the ‘island of a thousand temples,’ is a small tropical island in South East Asia. Part of the movie ‘Eat Pray Love’ was filmed in Bali, which has massively increased its popularity, though its inherent beauty has always made it a top destination for an exotic getaway long before Julia Roberts paid a visit.

The fall is a perfect time to visit if you have the chance. Less tourists visit outside of the summer months, and the sun is a little less relentless than in July and August. You will also avoid the frequent downpours that sweep over the island during the rainy season that starts near the end of the year. Bali is perfect for just relaxing the days away without a care in the world, walks along the beach, and soaking up the culture at one of the hundreds of sacred temples. But the island also has some trendy bars and restaurants that should not be missed.

Sarongs and Bikinis

Sarongs are the order of the day in this hot climate, and you will also fit in with the locals here by wearing one. In fact, both the men and women wear sarongs as part of their traditional dress for all their Hindu ceremonies. But don’t worry about packing too many, because you will have the opportunity to buy some very elegant sarongs at very reasonable prices. Also, a hat to shade you from the sun will be your most useful accessory here, so pack a couple if you can. Straw hats are always a favourite, and the more shade it gives you from the sun the better. Don’t worry if you forget one because, like sarongs, hats are easily available.

Obviously you will need to pack a bikini or three for Bali, because with so many absolutely stunning beaches to choose from and pools in most hotels there is no doubt you will be taking a dip. On the main tourist beaches it is generally acceptable to walk around in a bikini, but once you leave the beach or pool it’s a good move to cover yourself up. Sarongs come in handy again here as you can just wrap one of these around yourself.

What to wear on your feet

When it comes to footwear, sandals are the way to go, whether they are the plastic poolside variety or a more fashionable leather buckle sandal. If you really need to pack a pair of shoes then thin and light canvas shoes are the best option for you here. Bali’s pavements are generally not in a good state of repair, so comfortable flat soled shoes and sandals really are the safest option. Avoid trainers and leather shoes unless you enjoy having hot and sweaty feet.

A pair of elegant high heels or those shoes that go with your favourite dress can be considered as there are some quite exclusive restaurants and bars in the Seminyak area of Bali, but just don’t go overboard because you won’t use them all. A light and loose dress is perfect for going out in the evening, along with cotton skirts and tops. Try to avoid tight denim and synthetic material if you want to stay comfortable.

Temple attire

A trip to Bali wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of the many temples that are dotted all over the island. When visiting one of these sacred sites, you must make sure you dress appropriately. The main thing to remember is to keep arms and legs covered up while inside a temple. But covering up doesn’t mean you still can’t look good. A long sarong to cover the legs is your best option here, or perhaps some loose cotton trousers. A loose cotton shirt, tee or blouse is the sort of thing to wear at a temple, but just make sure that they are long sleeved. So many people visit Bali each year and sometimes not everybody takes notice of local customs, so try not to be one of them.

One thing you really can’t do without in Bali is a pair of sunglasses. These will be as indispensible as sun cream in Bali’s tropical climate, so make sure you pack a pair. Another thing to remember is that when it does rain in Bali, it rains hard. Downpours can be quick and are pretty infrequent outside of the rainy season, but if you get caught in one it doesn’t take long to get drenched. If a hotel porter offers you an umbrella when you leave it’s probably because rain is one the way. Be on the safe side and take the brolly along.

Breil Sunglasses $109 – Click image for details

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Dee Mason is a fashionista, travel writer and perpetual nomad. She writes for numerous travel and relocation services including a upack.com.

What to wear in Macau

Renae Virata — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 20:53:21 +0000

Photo | soniakathuria2010.blogspot.com

by Gillian Chu

Macau, also known as the Vegas of the East, was a colony of Portugal until 1999, so imagine Vegas showgirls meet Cristino Ronaldo. This showy city, just off the coast of China, is know for both its modest population and an overwhelming amount of tourists from China, Korea, and, you’ve guessed it, Portugal.

The average Macau inhabitant and the foreign working girl are all heading towards the same area, so, on an average day, you will see people in T-shirt and shorts while others don tube dress and pumps.

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What else should you wear for your trip to Macau? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

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In terms of weather, it is not as hot as Vegas, but it is sub-tropical after all, so if you don’t intend to just stay in casinos and shows but also want to visit Taipa Houses Museum and Ruins at St. Paul’s Cathedral, bring an umbrella and dress for the warm weather. Converse would be great for walking around the cobbles street through the Macau UNESCO Heritage Site.

The Bags

We love this bag because it is functional, fun, and just the right amount of casual. And with a go-with-anything color, it will probably be the only bag you need. The bamboo bag is just unique enough to create some drama without taking away from your entire outfit. Click to shop: Revel NY tote $298, Raw Bags Bamboo Clutch $55.

Visiting A-Ma Temple

A-Ma Temple is packed with people offering gifts to A-Ma, the sea goddess, so wear some shades to protect your eyes from overflowing incense, and a straw hat from the glaring sun. Comfortable sandals will be your best friend as you alight the many steps leading up to the temple. It is fine to wear a sleeveless top and shorts since all the incense will repel mosquitoes anyways. Click here to shop this look: Max Studio sunglasses $90, French Connection tee $58, Delia’s twill shorts $34.50

Classy Lunch at Macau Tower

Try a cocktail halter dress with matching block heels. Bring a large shoulder bag to stuff all your sports gear in for a daring bungy jump after the meal! Click here to shop this look: ApartStyle.com halter dress $98, Steve Madden platforms $129.95, Charm & Chain Acacia Drop Earrings $85.

Nice Night Out on the Town

Whether on a night out for regular performances like Zaia (Cirque du Soleil) and House of Dancing Water, or for rotational performances such as Chippendales, you are best to off wearing a Thai silk dress in case things got a bit exciting and water starts to fly around. A pashmina will also be a good idea, because they are rather fond of extreme air-conditioning indoors in Macau. Click here to shop: Mango scarf $24.50, Fever Le Mans maxi dress $144.41, Carlos Santana heels $78.99.

Hitting the Clubs

If you are heading to Club Cubic or Playboy Club for some hardcore partying, wear a bling tube dress with glitter platform for a great night out. Click here to shop this look: ApartStyle dress $135, Chinese Laundry heels $79.95.

Macau has a UNESCO trail, so there is no better guide than the Macau Tourism Board and the Macau World Heritage themselves. Just follow the tracks and let the architecture speak for itself. For fashion tips, check out Macau Tatler, and see what the rich and famous in Macau are wearing this season.

Like Vegas, Macau is all about big brands in gigantic malls, so if you are interested in getting your fix of luxury goods, head off to Shoppes at Four Seasons and Grand Canal Shoppes. The world class brands do carry a larger variety of styles than other countries, so if you see something you like you should get it there, because chances are you might not be able to find it back home.

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Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

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About Gillian

Gillian Chu is a Hong Kong-based Canadian who likes to linger around fashion parties and cultural events. Check out what she is up to at http://gillian-chu.blogspot.com! Photo taken in Bangkok.Read Gillian’s posts.

What to wear in Kuala Lumpur

Renae Virata — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 16:14:30 +0000

Photo | Gillian Chu | WeareverTheWeather.com

by Gillian Chu

Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, though host to a number of different religions, is mainly influenced by the Islamic culture, which is reflected in their style of dress. When I was there last summer, I flew in wearing a sleeveless shirt paired with a mini skirt and was awarded with disapproving looks as soon as I arrived at the airport. Avoid my mistake and be more culturally sensitive by covering up where you comfortably can!

In short, Kuala Lumpur is conservative, practical, and relaxed.

Sightseeing in KL (as it is more affectionately called by many expats) mainly consists of visiting mosques, Hindu and Buddhist temples, and Christian cathedrals, all of which are located some distance from each other. A linen shirt and pants matched with a pair of sandals and straw hat (wide-brim or fedora), will take you a long way in the hot weather. This combination will also be great when you are munching through delicious local delicacies at any hawkers’ stall.

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What else should you wear for your trip to Kuala Lumpur? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

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For a decent meal near the Patronis Tower, wear a knee length silk dress with modest neckline under a pashmina. If you feel like blending in, why not make an attempt to absorb some of the local culture by trying on a beautifully printed sari?

Hanging Out

Search WeareverTheWeather.com’s My Stylist tool: Kuala Lumpur, June 28, Hanging Out (Click here for outfit)

Click on an item to learn more and shop this look: French Connection scarf, $48; French Connection romper, $128; Spiegel gladiator sandals, $59; Fossil bag, $148

Shopping and Touring

Search WeareverTheWeather.com’s My Stylist tool: Kuala Lumpur, June 29, Polished but Relaxed (Click here for outfit)

Click on an item to learn more and shop this look: Delia’s railroad stripe top, $39.50; Boden cropped jeans, $88; Steve Madden slip-ons, $89.95; Vieta cross body bag, $35.99

Photo | AllPosters.com

Photo | Muamat.com

Photo | enmagem.com

For more on what is going on in Kuala Lumpur, refer to Time Out Kuala Lumpur. In the same format as any other Time Out around the world, you will find useful tips at a glance.

Eclipse is a Malaysian brand that carries dressy pieces at an affordable price, whereas Charles and Keith is a regional brand that offers classy shoes at an unbelievably low cost. So when you are at Kuala Lumpur, be sure to drop by both stores!

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Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

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About Gillian

What to wear in Bali

Renae Virata — Mon, 09 May 2011 19:28:28 +0000

Bali. Photo | Gillian Chu for WeareverTheWeather.com

by Gillian Chu

Somehow Bali has gotten a reputation for being the romantic tourist spot, where couples go on their honeymoons or even to pop the big question. Other than just being swooped head over heels by the beauty and utopia of this island in the archipelago nation of Indonesia, it is also a great place for a dip or quick surf. Remember to bring along a huge duffel bag to shove your straw hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses in. In short, Bali is sporty, vibrant, and tropical.

What to Wear and Pack | Style Inspirations | Weather | Resources | Shopping

Surfing / Hanging Out at the Beach Outfit

Maxi dresses, bikinis, and flip flops are a must, and if you are up for surfing at Kuta Beach, bring along your board shorts as well. Click on an item to shop it: Dress, French Connection; Flip-Flops, Old Navy; Bag, Straw Studios

Shopping

When you are heading over to Ubud for some artwork shopping, wear a comfortable pair of sandals, and carry a huge straw bag to put your new cutlery set in. Click here or on an item to shop this look:

Nightlife

Due to its tropical nature, Bali is very laid back, so there isn’t much of dressing up going on, not even at their nightlife scenes. If you fancy visiting the Rock Bar for a decent drink, match your maxi dress with a flattering pair of stilettos and a small clutch bag, and admire the sun setting as you listen to the waves of the Indian Ocean. Click here or on an item above to shop it: Dress, ModCloth; Espadrilles, Boden; Clutch, Moyna

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What else should you wear for your trip to Los Angeles? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

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Photo | ILoveMcDonaldAndPadangrest.blogspot.com

Photo | pinkbuble-fashion.blogspot.com

Bali weather is truly the paradise you may imagine year-round. The average high stays at a very bearable 88 degrees F (31 degrees C) and the average low at a wonderful 76 degrees F (24 degrees C). The rainy season begins in October with the most rainfall taking place in January and February at a monthly average of 12 inches. The summer is much drier with 3 inches or less on average per month from June to September.

For more information on travelling around Bali, check out WeekEnd for great tips from fellow travelers.

Shopping in Bali. Photo | Gillian Chu for WeareverTheWeather.com

One of my favourite local Bali brands is Uluwatu. Their handmade Balinese lace is soft to touch and amazing to wear. Once you are inside, you will spend ages in their shop, swooning over their products.

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Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

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About Gillian

What to wear in Singapore

Renae Virata — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 23:24:14 +0000

Photo | Gillian Chu

by Gillian Chu

Singapore is a big melting pot, mixing Chinese, Malaysian, and Indian cultures and influences together. In such a compact island city-state, you have different cultural digs at your fingertips. You can definitely look forward to great finds in the ethnic wear department! The style culture in general, however, is practical, comfortable, and casual. And with so many different worlds and therefore cultural standards converging in one place, you should definitely err on the conservative for historical and religious tours – try this season’s long maxi skirts with a tank and cropped cardi or stylish cropped pants with a funky tee.

What to Wear and Pack | Style Inspirations | Weather | Resources | Shopping

Weather-wise, Singapore has two seasons: hot/humid and hot/dry. Everything you pack should be sleeveless and short to suit the heat. However, because of the heat outside, you must prepare for the cold blasts of air conditioning inside. It is wise to always have a pashmina, light jacket or cardigan on hand just in case. Bringing an umbrella along is also a good idea, since you never know when it could start to drizzle.

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What else should you wear for your trip to Singapore? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

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For excursions to Universal Studios or Night Safari, you will want to wear fast-dry clothing (for all the water rides). Wearing a mid-length sundress is a good alternative to, say, jeans, which could take forever to air dry. If you go that route, though, remember to bring lots of mosquito repellent!

CLICK HERE TO SHOP THIS LOOK.

Click to shop this bag.

For a quick dip at the pool or to try your luck at the casino, Marina Bay Sands is the place to go. Sling on a sexy bikini and take a dip while enjoying Singapore’s amazing cityscape.

CLICK ON AN ITEM TO SHOP THIS LOOK.

Click to shop this bikini.

Singapore’s clubbing wear seems to be more of a personal style. I have seen clubbers in Butter Factory who are dressed for a wedding, while others in just flip flops and shorts. It’s a great chance to express your personal style.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP THIS LOOK.

Click on the bag to shop it.

For dressing to impress at the world’s highest al fresco bar, Altitude, put on a blue dress matched with a pair of black stilettos.

CLICK HERE TO SHOP THIS LOOK.

It pretty much stays hot and humid in Singapore year round. You can expect an average high of 88 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius) and an average low of 76 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius). About a third of every month is dedicated to rainfall, so be sure to bring an umbrella with you for any unexpected showers (and plan your updo’s or hat days accordingly!)

Gigantic malls like Esplanade and Marina Square has everything from local luxuries to worldwide brands. Be ready to shop till you drop under one roof.
Photo | Gillian Chu
If you enjoy dodging in and out of the heat, explore Orchard Road and Somerset for more local shopping scenes.
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Looking for ethnic goods? Head down to Chinatown and Little India to discover the hidden gems.

I-S Magazine, Singapore counterpart of BK Magazine, is exactly as resourceful. You can pick up a complimentary copy at popular clubs such as Zouk.

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Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

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About Gillian

Guest Travelista Gillian Chu is a Hong Kong-based Canadian who likes to linger around fashion parties and cultural events. Check out what she is up to at http://gillian-chu.blogspot.com!

What to wear in Shanghai

Renae Virata — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 17:42:25 +0000

Photo | Gillian Chu

by Gillian Chu

Shanghai is like a fashion model. She has her glamorous catwalk days and days off where she is in sweats. On any given day in Shanghai, you are bound to bump into fashionistas strolling along in their Louboutin heels and Hermes bags, and factory girls lingering about in their T-shirts and knee length shorts. In three words, Shanghai is diverse, flashy, and flamboyant (read: a place for you to get your creative fashion juices flowing!).

Shanghai is boiling hot in summer and freezing cold in winter, so what you pack really depends on when you are going. Since summer is coming up, I will talk a bit more about the summer fashion in Shanghai.

Sightseeing in Shanghai calls for sensible shoes. That is because they have a vast amount of cobble streets in the touristy sites, such as the Yu-yuan Garden or the Zhou Zhuang. You will be best to have a pair of Teva sandals with you for that.

CLICK ON AN ITEM TO SHOP THIS LOOK

If you are going for a decent meal or drinks at the top floor of Grand Hyatt or Park Hyatt, it would be wise to dress up and fit in with the fashion savvy crowd. A sleeveless black dress with a pair of stiletto heels will do the trick.

CLICK ON AN ITEM TO SHOP THIS LOOK

Clubbing in Shanghai is mainly separated in two streams: expat and local. Clubs like M1NT and Prive are pretty much like what you can find in any other major cities around the globe. Put on a well-fitted tube dress and a pair of bling bling heels for a great night out.

CLICK ON AN ITEM TO SHOP THIS LOOK

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What else should you wear for your trip to Shanghai? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

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Photo | Gillian Chu

Shanghai in the Summer

Rainfall is incessant in Shanghai with the most rainfall occurring between June through August (8 -10 inches on average monthly). They are also the hottest with average highs in June starting the summer off at 80 degrees F (21 degrees C) and an average low of 70 degrees F (21 degrees C) and July and August boasting average highs of 88 degrees F (31 degrees C) and average lows of 77 degrees F (25 degrees C).

Time Out Shanghai, found in upscale restaurants such as M on the Bund, offers all the secret hideaways of resident expats.

For a more local taste of fashion, visit the City God Temple. There is a huge market outside selling Chinese styled clothing and accessories.

Photo | Shanghai Tang

For an up market approach to Chinese fashion, go to Shanghai Tang. They provide exquisite qi-pao and silk scarves with oriental patterns.

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Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

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About Gillian

Guest Travelista Gillian Chu is a Hong Kong-based Canadian who likes to linger around fashion parties and cultural events. Check out what she is up to at http://gillian-chu.blogspot.com!

What to wear in Bangkok

Renae Virata — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 14:40:40 +0000

Photo | Gillian Chu

by Gillian Chu

Whether it’s your first trip to Bangkok, or it’s practically your second home, I would suggest bringing fewer pieces of clothing because you will inevitably be SHOPPING! Bangkok is definitely a shopping paradise, so it is an amazing place to go with your girlfriends (read: leave the significant other at home). I can’t count the hours I have spent in Central World or Siam Paragon.

What to Wear and Pack | Weather in Bangkok | Online Resources | Shopping

I am personally not a big fan of the heat, but if you like the more local shopping scenes, you should visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market and the Patpong Night Market. En route to Central World, I spotted many Thai girls wearing sleeveless tops and shorts. Bangkok is definitely not a place for capris much less a place for full-length skinny jeans.

Click here to shop this bag.

Shop This Look

Unless you are going to the Palace for sightseeing, you are not required to fully cover yourself, so enjoy the sunshine. Obviously don’t forget your bikini and a decent pair of Havaianas. Bangkok has an amazing nightlife happening as well, so remember to pack a short, sleeveless dress (it is a hot city) and a nice pair of heels with you.

Click to shop.

Shop This Look

And umbrellas aren’t just for the rain! In Bangkok, they also serve double-duty as a shield from the sun.

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What else should you wear for your trip to Bangkok? Fill out our My Stylist form to find out!

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The only thing that really changes in Bangkok year-round is the amount of rainfall. August and September get the most rain at an average of 8 – 10 inches per year while November – March and June gets the least at 1 -2 inches. Every other time of the year is about 4 – 6 inches. Otherwise, you can sit back and relax at an average max temperature of 92 degrees F (33 degrees C) and a min temperature of 77 degrees F (24 degrees C). No wonder visitors have discovered the vacation hot spot that is Bangkok in the last decade!

* The first place you should go when you land in Bangkok is not your resort, but Forever 21. The Forever 21 in Central World is not only huge, it is also well priced. You can find everything you need for your stay in Bangkok there. They only carry summer clothing though, so if you are from somewhere with a real winter, the choice of clothing is probably less appropriate for you to bring back home.

* Siam Discovery Center is a mall filled with pieces by local Thai designers. You can find all sorts of innovative designs there, with minimal chances of being caught in the same dress as another girl back home. My favourite is the Good Job Store, which sells amazing clutches, handbags and briefcases.

* Naraya is another must-visit. This Bangkok-based brand is famous for their silk and cotton bags, which are cheap and cheerful. If you have bought way too many dresses from Siam Discovery Center, you will need to stop here for a huge bag to stuff all your shopping finds in.

For further local tips and guides, look out for a copy of the BK Magazine, which can be found, for free, in most coffee shops. It is like having an instant Thai friend who is there to share all her local secrets with you!

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Don’t leave for your trip without Access America Travel Insurance. From travel delay coverage to missed connection coverage, they’ve got you covered!

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About Gillian

Guest Travelista Gillian Chu is a Hong Kong based Canadian who likes to linger in fashion parties and cultural events. Check out what she is up to at http://gillian-chu.blogspot.com!

Beauty Tip: Hong Kong

Renae Virata — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:04:12 +0000

Photo | Mac

Guest blogger and skincare and makeup consultant Sameera Ahmed’s advice for Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is one of the most fashion-forward cities in the world, with its residents definitely unafraid of dramatic color, funky textures, and punk-inspired patterns. And why should the fun stop there?Follow their lead by carrying that flair for dramatics into your makeup choices. Color is in, especially when checking out the always-happening nightlife, so indulge in those bright lip and eye colors that have been hiding at the bottom of your makeup bag.

For the daring: Pull some inspiration from the 80’s by pairing a light blue eyeshadow and black eyeliner with a bright red or pink lip

For the timid: Sweep a bright shadow, like a teal or emerald on the lid from lash to crease and keep the lips nude

Women in Hong Kong prefer skin to look fresh and healthy, not cakey and fussy. Achieve this look by keeping cover-up to a minimum: leave those heavy foundations at home and instead, opt for a highlighting concealer, tinted moisturizer, and fine powder.

Hong Kong offers a warm, balmy retreat from the colder temperatures many of us are experiencing in the U.S. That change in climate definitely warrants a change in the skincare you should use there.

Healthy skin is always in, so keep skin healthy with:

A salicylic or glycolic acid face wash to keep pores clean.
Choose a light or oil-free moisturizer with SPF 15 and antioxidants (like Vitamin C or green tea – a favorite in China) to keep skin protected from UV and pollution.
At night, be sure to wash off any sunscreen and makeup. Use a clarifying treatment (toner or lotion) for oily to combination skin, or a hydrating lotion for normal to dry skin.

For what to wear for your next trip to Hong Kong, check out our post “What to Wear in Hong Kong.”

Sameera Ahmed is a licensed makeup and skincare artist consultant from Denver, CO. She provides personal shopping services for makeup and skin care as well as private lessons for skin care and color application with a special focus on green and natural products.

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