I totally agree that one should learn to travel light, as a general principle in life. But especifically when traveling, the lighter the better. I have learned through the years, so now I pack just the exact number of items I’ll need in a business trip, trying to mix and match among them (ex., skirt, trousers and combining jacket, shoes, blouses). But it’s a fact that I am going to do some shopping, so I pourposly go one outfit short to allow for the new one.

Finally, I always pack my latest outfits, the most stylish and fashionable. At least, if I will repeat any of the pieces during the course of my trip, I won’t get bore, neither the people around me. It will not be  just “the same  old plain white shirt”, but that chic leopard jacket that makes feel awesome.

Monicami :: Apr.26.2009 :: My rules :: No Comments »

I tend to remember faces but forget names. If you are like me, be kind to other people and always, always, tell your name at the same time you are shaking hands. It is not funny to say: “Do you remember me? I bet you don’t”, trying to bring attention to yourself, or –on the contrary– to embarrass the other person.

When I have forgotten the other persons’s name and I happen to be with company, I first introduce the person I know the name (e.g.: ‘Hi, let me introduce you to my sister Claudia’, and then she tells her whole name) and wait for the newcomer to introduce herself.  This is a technic my father uses all the time, because he is just as bad with people’s names as I am. I hope you find it useful.

Monicami :: Mar.17.2009 :: My rules :: No Comments »

French version of "Country Formal" circa 1803

When attending a business meeting abroad, a wedding, an anniversary, a party or any other special occasion event, always ask about the “dress code”. If nothing is mentioned to you, or you didn’t get a specific answer (such as “formal”, “casual”, “bring a hat” or “black tie”), is always better to go overdressed than the opposite. On the other hand, if you are the one inviting, please don’t try to look cool inventing new dressing codes. I just knew about an invitation to a wedding in Cuernavaca that asked for “campirano formal” (country formal). WHAT THE HECK IS THAT?

Monicami :: Feb.19.2009 :: My rules :: No Comments »

When dealing with psycologists, don’t bother looking at the diplomas on the wall. Is the person nice? Do you feel you can enjoy her conversation if you were to have a coffee? Look around you: Do you like the place? Is it comfortable? The smell, the furniture, the couch or chair where you will be seating during months ahead are even more important than some of the credentials. In this case, trust your guts. The rest will follow.

Monicami :: Feb.10.2009 :: My rules, What women want, really? :: No Comments »