Worth Noting

5 Travel Companies Changing the Jetset Game

Bespoke Approaches to Planning Your Next Adventure
Filed Under > Everyday

Blog-Travel-CB25

I know we’re in the midst of all of the holiday craziness, but I always get a wanderlust itch this time of year.  I amount it to the cold weather; after Christmas and NYE, I’m usually dying to see the electric blue water somewhere tropical instead.  

Thanks to my travel bug, I recently found myself poking around on Instagram (as I laid down to fall asleep probably), falling down a rabbit hole as I discovered a few intriguing travel startup companies.  Of course, I know the routine with these travel startups though; a lot of the unique, bespoke approaches to traveling almost seem to good to be true.  Some, too, sound like they’re mainly geared to millenials, and I have my doubts if they’ll be around forever. BUT, that said, I can’t help but be intrigued with some of these offerings. 

As I read about several of these travel companies and travel startups’ missions, I realized that the common thread was obvious: they’re all putting the control back in the traveler’s hands to create truly memorable trips in the most authentic way.  No, seriously.  With customized itineraries, unique and intimate experiences and chances to find the true hidden gems and hang with locals, you can finally say hello to the trip you’ve always dreamed of. 

El Camino Travel, for example, got my attention a few months ago.  They send a professional photographer with a group of 12 (max) to Colombia, Cuba, Nicaragua or Trinidad and Tobago.  Sounds silly at first, but get this…you can leave your phone at the hotel and truly experience the authentic side of the countries with extensively planned itineraries by the pros.  I mean it IS a little intriguing, isn’t it?!

So if you’ve got the travel bug like I do, check out the five companies below.  I’d love to know what you think…are they too good to be true?!  Too out-there for you?!  I don’t know if I’d be brave enough for Night Swapping.  Regardless, I’m rooting for them to be everything they say they are…and I’m saving up for my next adventure in the meantime.  Cheers, Kat

P.S. If you’ve got a trip on the books (lucky duck!), check out these 11 tips to travel like a pro, and don’t miss the best airport outfit you can wear. xo 

SHOP THE STORY / CLICK LEFT & RIGHT ARROWS TO EXPLORE

El Camino Travel

"Be a traveler, not a tourist"

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El Camino Travel‘s philosophy is for “curated travel, unique experiences.” With extensively planned itineraries that focus on making a memorable trip that truly discovers the gems of the destination. All itineraries are planned by El Camino Travel’s founder, who has traveled to all of the countries available for your trip. 

What’s more: each group is accompanied by a talented photographer with a creative eye ready to capture the whole experience. That’s right, you can leave your phone at the door and live in the moment.  Every morning, the photog shares 20+ images of the group so you can share on Instagram for all your friends back home to swoon over. 

Another great part about El Camino Travel is that a percentage of the profits of each trip go to a local social entrepreneur who is radically changing the face of their country. The group will meet this inspiring individual, and partake in an intimate dinner or activity with the social entrepreneur to get a unique and personal perspective of the current surroundings. You’ll also be able to support local vendors and businesses throughout the many aspects of the trip, ensuring that your tourism dollars go directly back into the local economy.

Finally! The chance to see a country the way it should be seen, without the tourist traps and wrong turns. All groups are capped at 12 travelers, so you know you’ll have an intimate experience. Not to mention, it’s a great chance to meet some awesome new friends if you’re planning to travel solo. 

Book your trip now to: Colombia, Cuba, Nicaragua, or Trinadad and Tobago. 

Absolute Travel

One-of-a-kind luxury travel experiences

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Absolute Travel should be a household name for a true jetsetter.  The company has won countless awards and gained recognition by Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure, National Geographic Traveler & More for being a top world tour operator. 

Absolute Travel is perfect for the experienced traveler who is past packaged trips and set dates.  Instead, the trips are designed and scheduled around your interests and needs, with a customized luxury itinerary just for you.

You come to them with a broad idea, and Absolute Travel will build your trip and shape it by suggesting additional destinations and sites and ensuring you only stay in the most incredible hotels. They arrange unique luxury travel experiences based around your interests, and connect you with chefs, yoga gurus, expert guides, and gallery owners so you have a truly personalized and enriching luxury travel experience. 

WithLocals

Connecting people & cultures through food & unique experiences

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Imagine joining an intimate dinner in a family’s home, or going on a mountain hike to hidden places or even trying your hand at a traditional stone-carving workshop. 

Through WithLocals, you can book food experiences and things-to-do experiences in countries like Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, India and more. 

To admit their approach to travel is novel to me would be an understatement, as they focus directly on Asian locals that have something to offer travelers in terms of knowledge and culture, rather than on the consumer-driven tourism industry. They cut out the “middle man” or the booking/travel agency, and connect hosts and locals for truly authentic and memorable experiences. It’s also a great way to encourage sustainable income to the local communities that we want to preserve. 

You can apply to be a host or traveler on their website here

Nightswapping

"Swap nights, not money"

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Nightswapping is another unique idea; it’s a community of people that host each other to travel for free. This new, friendlier way to travel involves no money exchanged between members, and guests can therefore experience a truly authentic look at your city.  

Here’s how it works: whenever you host members in your guest room or entire home, you earn Nights credits that you can then use to travel later on. 

Nightswapping moderates every listing, they verify members and then collect review by guests.  They also cover your home up to a certain amount with an international insurance company. 

They suggest trying the program as a traveler first, before hosting someone in your home.  To do so, you’ll simply buy Nights directly from the website for a low cost, no matter how many travelers and whatever the destination.

Boutique Travel

"Expert Advice...At No Extra Cost"

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Boutique Travel is another company that is putting the power in the travelers’ hands. With professional custom designed itineraries offered by their friendly, specialist consultants, your luxury travel desires can come true. 

Boutique Travel lists destinations like Argentina, Tahiti, the Caribbean, New Zealand and so many more places that are on my bucket list. The testimonials make it sound like they really know their stuff, too. When it comes to a lot of the nitty-gritty logistical details of a major trip, Boutique Travel would definitely come in handy. 

I’m bookmarking them on my list for hopeful honeymoon adventures! 

Featured image original to Waiting on Martha

The Top 10 Best Essential Oils I’m Using Right Now

An essential oil for every area of your life
Filed Under > Beauty & Tutorials

The Best Essential Oils to Use Today, Waiting On Martha

You know, if a couple drops of essential oil can help me feel better, help change my skincare routine, and help me get rid of so many harsh chemicals in my household then essential oils are something I can get behind.  So I thought today I’d share the ten best essential oils that I can’t stop using.  

Truthfully, I used to joke that it’s all a little too “woo-woo” for me, but I quickly found that the world of essential oils isn’t “woo-woo” but rather been around since basically the dawn of time, hello frankincense and myrrh.  And aside from the actual positive physical and mental effects I’ve found from the oils, the education of it all has been really enjoyable.  

I’ve been using essential oils here and there for years, but only recently when faced with frustrations in numerous areas of my life, did I truly plunge in.  And once I was in, I was IN!  Hence the beginning of my relationship with Young Living Essential Oils.   And since starting this journey the number one question I’ve been getting is, “okay but how do I actually use oils and what are the best essential oils?”

There’s literally an oil for EVERYTHING.  And the essential oils you’ll use will consistently change with the season and evolve with how you’re feeling, what you’re fighting, etc.  Below I’ve went into more detail about the top ten best essential oils I’m using right now and how I’m using them.  

I mentioned above that it wasn’t until late last year that I actually took the plunge with Young Living, and I’ve got to say I wish I would have purchased a Premium Starter Kit years ago when I had originally begun dabbling in oils.  It would have saved A LOT of time and A LOT of money, see the math below.  I’ve probably spent double the cost of the kit on lower quality oils and diffusers in the past.  There’s a reason why the Premium Starter Kit is simply the smartest way to get started, which you can read all about they why HERE.  And I’d LOVE to know about your go-to essential oils, your favorite uses and even ones you’re hoping to try out soon.  Truly, MKR

P.S. If you’re interested in getting started with essential oils, and have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out via email: hello@thewellcode.com.  We know it’s all a bit overwhelming, but the entire WOM team began with the Premium Starter Kit with monthly Essential Rewards to keep the oils coming.  And once you do the math you’ll see why a starter kit is really the way to go.  The kit retails for $350, but you only pay $160 and gets you 11 essential oils averaging plus a free dew drop diffuser which retails for $60. And once you see the pricing of each oil on it’s own you’ll understand why a kit is a must.  Not to mention you forever get the wholesale pricing on anything going forward. Can’t beat that! xo

Peppermint Essential Oil

The Well Code, $21.50

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Peppermint is an easy favorite; I apply this essential oil on my forehead with water (50:50) the morning after I’ve over-indulged at holiday party, and I keep it in the fridge for an extra cooling effect. I also add a drop to my coffee, water or tea to help me curb my appetite and soothe my always tumultuous tummy.

It’s affordable (and comes in the Premium Starter Kit because it’s such an essential), and something I always like to have on-hand for a quick boost. 

Use it for: energizing, digestive support

*Included in the Premium Starter Kit. 

Thieves

The Well Code, $33.75

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The importance of nontoxic cleaning is really a no-brainer.  To me, it was simple to switch out my fragrance and chemical-laden detergents for Thieves. As opposed to chemical-laden alternatives, Thieves helps neutralize smells and purifies the air, instead of masking odors and leaving more bad stuff to breathe in! 

I use Thieves to clean throughout my house, and while doing so, it’s been easy for me to see why Thieves is one of Young Living’s bestsellers (also included in the Premium Starter Kit).  My favorite way to use it?  I mix a few drops of the oil with water for an all-purpose counter spray and a gentle linen spray. I also add a few drops to baking soda and sprinkle the mixture in all of our garbage cans to keep the stink away.  But it can be used in a wide range of household products from laundry detergents to even toothpaste, too.  

Use it for: immune support, purifying, cleaning

*Included in the Premium Starter Kit. 

Tea Tree

The Well Code, $26

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Tea tree essential oil has been used as part of skin care regimens for centuries around the world. It’s a powerful oil that can moisturize and help clear the appearance of blemishes. 

Since it’s a powerful oil, I like to apply tea tree topically to my shoulders and back (along the sports bra line) after I work out.  Its cleaning properties can help keep any post-workout breakouts at bay. 

Use it for: cleansing

Lavender

The Well Code, $23.50

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Every night, I diffuse lavender essential oil bedside in my Dew Drop Diffuser plus roll it on my feet, wrists, and neck. It’s one of Young Living’s most versatile and powerful essential oils, and can be found in so many products because the calming, fresh and pleasing aroma is just second to none. 

I also recently made an easy DIY lavender nighttime spray with a 8-10 drops of oil with water that I keep in the extra bedroom for when guests stay with us. 

Use it for: skin irritations, balancing, relaxing

*Included in the Premium Starter Kit. 

Purification

The Well Code, $25

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I use purification almost everyday.  Made up of six essential oils for Purification is the ultimate weapon against odors. Citronella, Lavandin, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Myrtle, and Tea Tree work together to create a refreshing, bright scent that keeps you and your family happy and comfortable.

I diffuse it throughout my house every time I cook, in the garage, in my car, and always have a spray bottle around ready to spritz any area that just needs a little pick me up.

Use it for: cleaning & purification

**Included in the Premium Starter Kit

Tangerine

The Well Code, $21.05

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Tangerine is that oil that I find I add to everything. Because of its appealing aroma, Tangerine oil uses include a wealth of topical and aromatic applications. Use its cleansing benefits in your morning skin care routine for an added boost or apply it to your temples before study time or meditation.  I also add a few drops to peppermint or eucalyptus for the diffuser, a few drops on my wrist to motivate me before a workout, and a few drops of Tangerine Vitality to my water to amp up the flavor. 

Use it for: motivation, cleansing, & energy balance

 

Frankincense

The Well Code, $73.50

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It’s agreed that Frankincense can increase feelings of spirituality and inner strength!  There’s no wonder it’s been highly revered for years; it also helps me minimize breakouts from the stress of the season, while moisturizing my skin as it gets dry this time of year. 

I apply 1-2 drops to my face, neck and chest morning and night, and additionally whenever needed (I wore an itchy sweater the other day and broke out in a rash…Frankincense to the rescue!). 

Use it for: immune support, skin health, spiritual grounding 

*Included in the Premium Starter Kit. 

Spearmint

The Well Code, $10.75

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I place a few drops of spearmint essential oil into my tea for my tummy. It’s known to be milder than peppermint, so it’s easy on my digestion if my stomach is acting up. It also has a really great, uplifting aroma, and I enjoy it blended with lavender in my diffuser. 

Use it for: emotional release, digestive support, respiratory health

Copaiba

The Well Code, $43

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Along with the Frankincense, I apply a few drops of Copaiba essential oil when my face is broken out or inflamed, or I have any rash like I do right now on my chest thanks to an itchy sweater.  Not as well known as Frankincense, Copaiba has been traditionally used for similar skincare support, helping the body’s natural response to injury or irritation.

Occasionally, I also have physical tension ( thanks, Mother Nature) and I apply a few drops of Copaiba with a carrier oil when that happens.  Copaiba contains the highest amounts of beta caryophyllene (a natural substance that influences your body’s ability to respond to irritation) of all of the essential oils and is basically an MVP in that department. 

Use it for: physical discomfort and skin health

*Included in the Premium Starter Kit. 

Basil

The Well Code, $24.75

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Basil essential oil is known to have a fresh, herbaceous aroma (like the fresh herb!).  I’ve found that it can be calming and refreshing when I mix a few drops into my nighttime bath.  I’ve been doing so lately with a few drops of Basil essential oil when I need a little “me time” to think. 

Use for: mental clarity, alertness, balancing

Photography, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha

**The information contained on this website is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.  The information represents what I, an Independent Distributor of Young Living Essential Oils, have chosen to do to take charge of my own personal health and that of my family.  Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products on this site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using these products.

Information found on this site is meant for educational and informational purposes only, and to motivate you to make your own health care and dietary decisions based upon your own research and in partnership with your health care provider. It should not be relied upon to determine dietary changes, a medical diagnosis or courses of treatment. Individual articles and information on other websites are based upon the opinions of the respective authors, who retain copyright as marked.

Waiting on Martha’s Holiday Gift Guide No. Two

Everything to Gift this season + A Major Giveaway You Don't Want to Miss
Filed Under > Entertaining

The Holiday Gift Guide, including the perfect skillet, a coffee subscription and at home calligraphy set!

If you missed yesterday’s big news, you’re in for a treat this week here on Waiting on Martha!  We’re sharing a handful of holiday gift guides this year, and including a MAJOR giveaway with EACH to truly celebrate the season with all of you.  Today, my friends, marks Gift Guide Number Two. 

Since we’re sharing everything we’re planning on gifting this year (the what, the to who, and the why we’re gifting it), we thought it would be fun to give it all away, too.  One lucky winner will receive everything you see in this picture! That’s right…one lucky winner will be picked for each gift guide! 

So what are you waiting for?!  Get all the details from everything in Gift Guide Number Two below, and of course the giveaway entry form widget.  We couldn’t have done this one without our generous friends at Williams-Sonoma, Thimblepress, Mark & Graham, Inkspot Workshop, Smithey Ironware, Oui Shave, Waiting On Martha Home, and Drift Away Coffee!  

Be sure to read about all of the products included below, who we’re gifting each one to, and of course enter via Rafflecopter. Good luck, good luck and let’s cheers to a great start to gift guide season!   Truly, MKR

P.S. Don’t forget to enter yesterday’s giveaway (Gift Guide Number One) HERE. xo 

Maybelle Calligraphy Set

Mark & Graham, $199

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Mark & Graham gives us a gorgeous handmade, wooden keepsake box with the basics to get your creative juices flowing to master calligraphy at home. This calligraphy set includes a wood pen with steel nib, three extra nibs, wood pen rest, miniature ink vial, 1 oz. bottle of black sumi ink with dropper, practice booklet, letterpress alphabet sheet.

We’d gift this to a friend who’s in a creative rut.

*Giveaway winner will receive one calligraphy set. 

Leather Bound World Travel Journal

Mark & Graham, $70

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Perfect for the jetsetter (or local wanderer!), this leather travel journal includes pages for journaling, full-color maps of major cities, world weather info, international dialing codes and more.

We’d gift this to the person in our life who has the most frequent flyer miles.

*Giveaway winner will receive one journal, customized and monogrammed if desired. 

Copper Measuring Cups, Set of 4

Williams-Sonoma, $39.95

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We’re big fans of these elegant measuring cups that instantly elevate your kitchen routine.  The copper offers a heavy-duty construction with low-maintenance finish, and the sturdy stainless steel means you won’t be replacing these anytime soon. The set includes 1 cup, 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup and 1/2 cup. 

We’d gift this to the baker in our life.

*Giveaway winner will receive one set of measuring cups. 

Chocolate & Wine Pairing Kit

Williams-Sonoma, $19.95

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Celebrate two of our favorite things (wine and chocolate) with handcrafted chocolate bars that have been made to perfectly pair with different wines. An easy stocking stuffer, and a simple gift for just about anyone on your list!

We’d gift this to the person who always has a glass of wine in their hand and orders dessert first.

*Giveaway winner will receive kit of four 2 oz. bars. 

CinnaMint No. 7 Chewing Sticks

Waiting on Martha Home, $7.50

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These all natural, premium batch cinnamon toothpicks have a subtle hint of mint, creating a sweet sensation while chewing. Chewing sticks are an American tradition, and prove to be a great stocking stuffer for the boys.

We’d gift this to the man in our life.

*Giveaway winner will receive two bottles of chewing sticks. 

No. 10 Cast Iron Skillet

Smithey Iron, $160

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As any Southerner will tell you, true Dixie cooking is done with cast iron. What’s destined to become an heirloom houseware, this No. 10 cast iron skillet by Charlestons’s Smithey Iron is US made and crafted with care. 

We’d gift this to the Southern chef.

*Giveaway winner will receive one skillet. 

Blood Orange Himalayan Salt Body Scrub, Aftershave Toner, Bikini Body Ingrown Relief Serum, & Lavan Shave Oil

Oui Shave, $92

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Oui Shave is seriously changing the shaving game with luxurious, all natural products that your skin will love.  We rounded up four of our favorite essentials from the brand (a body scrub, an aftershave, ingrown serum and shave oil), so you can start enjoying shaving once and for all, too. 

We’d gift this to our bestie who eats organic, but doesn’t wear patchouli.

*Giveaway will will receive all four products.

Love Taco Matches, Set of 3

Inkspot Workshop, $9

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Taco Tuesday (our favorite day of the week) just got better; just grab your margarita and you’re set. These orange matchboxes are stamped with ♥ TACOS in sparkly gold foil and couldn’t be cuter. 

We’d gift this to our work buddy.

*Giveaway winner will receive a set of 3 matchboxes. 

The Prayer Partner

Thimblepress, $32

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The Prayer Partner is a great way to keep track of the blessings in your life.  The journal provides easy spaces to fill in (even if you only have five minutes!) your thoughts, desires, dreams and prayers, along with prayers and bible verses to help inspire you on your path.  It’s simply a stunning book (188 pages!) with 20 art prints included. 

We’d gift this to our Mom or MIL, (Mother In Law).

*Giveaway winner will receive one journal. 

3-Month Coffee Subscription

Drift Away Coffee, $48

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We think a life upgrade comes in the form of a freshly roasted coffee subscription, delivered straight to your doorstep!  Drift Away Coffee offers great subscription plans (customizable and flexible for your lifestyle) that would make anyone smile this holiday.  

We’d gift this to the coffee lover in our life who prefers local the pour over method to red cups.

*Giveaway winner receives one 3-month coffee subscription. 

PLEASE NOTE: Giveaway items will be shipped directly from each retailer. xo 

Photography, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha

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