bag lady.

besides style and evian spritzers, what french faves should you travel with? only a hermès feu2dou valise, obvi. you'd expect nothing less than a deep barenia leather lined bag to play off the crispy white or brown canvas. this is more than a carry-on; it's a carry-everywhere. and dual zippers mean closure (your fave). as for the kelly lock and the perforated "H," that's code for "haute come hither." available online at www.hermes.com

wake up call.

don't hit the snooze. you'll want to be awake for holiday season design hotels. it works like this: every day in december until christmas, design hotels will open their advent calendar and choose a winner for one of their fab packages. choices include five nights in a private pool villa at the X2 resorts in koh samui, or two nights with breakfast in a park loft suite at the hotel, designed by jean nouvel. you could win one of the vouchers and gift certificates just by signing up for their newsletter.

no regrets.

that feeling you have after too many happy hour cocktails with a client? that's regret. seeing a flash sale, booking an ultra-exclusive travel package and saving dollars while doing it? that's gilt. gilt groupe's latest, jetsetter, is the only way to book your excursion because well, they provide only the best (not to mention the most glam). so refreshing (translation: not expedia) plus so in-the-know times invite-only equals so you. feel gilt-y. it's ok.

swiss miss.

hot cocoa is for the weak. a true swiss maiden high-tails it to the alps, kicks off her clogs and settles into the cambrian moon spa experience (no moonwalking required). suit down and check out for three weekdays of aromatic oils, aloe vera facials, cream and salt peels, massages (natch) and sparking wine in the winter garden. oh and let's not forget taking a lucious dip while gazing at snowcapped mountains. fly me to the moon. available at www.designhotels.com

principe interest.

talking finance? not into it these days. how about the hotel pincipe di savoia principe bar instead? the sparkling space gets tricked out with a rich palate, high-back booths, a decadent backlit bar with ultra mod wooden stools, mirrors galore and of course, a baby grand in the center. this sounds like the only place to enjoy a passion fruit martini. well, it kinda the only place you'll want to sit and sip. molto bene, indeed. located at piazza della republica 17. 20124 milan. italy. 39.02.62.301.

au revoir greasies.

trips from florence to tokyo and then to sweet paris can leave your tresses in distress. and since in-flight salons have yet to be en vogue, you're prob stuck wtih mop head. meet finley hair powder. it's here to save the day (and your 'do). sprinkle a paddle brush with the magic powder (whatever hue you are this month, it's available in four colors) and put it throught your strands. then deplane for the ultimate dalliance. oh la la.