The season we are all about is Fall 2013 Ready-to-Wear and there was a since of darkness as black was the go to color of the season mixed with bold colors, structured paneling, leather, fur, plaid and vintage inspired silhouette’s. Dark palettes for the garments were definitely the main trends of the majority of the collections.

The Levi’s company was founded in 1853 by Levi Strauss, the creator of working dungarees. With 470 company-operated stores and over 16,200 employees, Levi’s leads the market and sets the trends for denim. While the style of denim comes and goes with the times, acid washed, stone washed, loose fit, skinnies, and more, jeans and denim are timeless. We find ourselves tangled up in blue.

What type of denim are you? Let’s explore the different options and what each may say about your personality. Relaxed fit, skinny jeans or boot cut?

Relaxed fit: the perfect pick for your laid back, care free guy or chick, easy going with a lawn chair and a cold beer in hand.

Skinny jeans: trendsetter and sometimes up tight. Could we blame you? You’re not afraid to show off the curves. Hit a coffee shop or trendy boutique with style and confidence.

Boot cut: you’re preppy and most likely a jock or a cowboy. These provide great comfort for sports and activities outdoors like tailgating or roping in your cattle. They give you perfect room when throwing the football at a picnic or attending a neighborhood BBQ.

Trends:

Denim trends have a lot of option and can get overwhelming if you are not a fan of shopping or looking to try new styles. Let’s begin with the basics, the color hues. After we pick our favorite tones, then we can experiment with the hottest trends.

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OutServe Magazine reviewed an exclusive copy of the memoir last month, offering the following praise:

Speckhard and Beck have teamed up to give us one of the smartest and most important books of the year. Warrior Princess is the story of Kristin Beck, formerly Chris, a decorated Navy SEAL and American patriot who faced a lifelong struggle to come to terms with her gender identity.

The book could stand alone as an account of Beck’s distinguished career in the military, but Warrior Princess has a bolder message to send to its readers: transgender people are people…and some of them are even our national heroes.

Beck is a natural protagonist…strong, hardworking, and deeply patriotic. Every reader can relate to her, whether it’s her coming of age story, her decision to join the elite Navy SEALs, or even her coming to terms with her gender identity. And where Kristin’s experiences differ from the readers’, Speckhard subtly exercises her understanding of psychology and sociology to bridge the gap.

Whether a pacifist or a hawk, advocate or opponent of LGBT equality, Warrior Princess is a raw, honest, and surprisingly relatable read.

To purchase a copy of Warrior Princess, click here.

Spring is in full effect and summer is just around the corner, let’s make sure we take caution when out in the sun. Try these products to ensure your skin stays protected from sunburns, UV rays and dry skin.

Elemental Herbology Sun Kiss
• Delivers botanical, self-tanning agents that add a beautiful glow to the skin while prolonging the life of your tan.
• Soothing, nourishing and hydrating formula that includes watermelon seed oil, pomegranate, fig extract, aloe vera and lavender.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen
• Feels clean and light leaving a weightless feel on your skin.
• Leave a Non-Shiny Finish with the oil free formula leaving a matte finish.
• Won’t clog pores, PABA free and non-comedogenic.

Clinique After Sun Rescue with Aloe
• Provides a post-sun repair to help prevent today’s sun exposure from becoming tomorrow’s visible damage.
• Ultra-moisturizing balm with soothing aloe calms sun-exposed skin.

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
• Clinically proven to improve the health of skin in 1 day with significant improvement in 2 weeks.
• Helps prevent and protect dry skin, it leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and naturally healthy-looking.
• Fragrance free, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic.

Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Moisture Mist
• Ensures soft, healthier-looking skin.
• Lactic acid and Hawaiian awapuhi provide deep moisture and enhanced shin
• Sodium PCA (a natural component of human skin) balances moisture

Paul Mitchell Sun Shield Conditioning Spray
• Instantly softens hair and adds brilliance.
• Helps maintain vibrant, shiny hair color.
• UV protection and adds shine.

Beekman 1802 Stick Of Butter
• Unlike greasy liquid lotions, Stick of Butter will moisturize and treat without leaving you sticky.
• Made with goat milk, calendula-infused olive oil, mango butter, pure beeswax and essential oils.
• Simply rub the stick on your lips or skin and allow the natural heat of your body to do the rest.
• Order from www.beekman1802.com

Until, perhaps, you take a deeper look.” -By Moni Basu, CNN

Gaza, 2000; Paris, 2006
Photographs by Christopher Anderson/Magnum Photos

See the rest of the images here.

Paul Theroux describes Hawaii as being a “state of grace.” Everywhere you go in the archipelago you will find nothing but stunning beauty, breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural tradition that remains timeless. The legendary sense of aloha is prevalent in Hawaii’s people from the moment you step off the plane. Hawaii stands out uniquely amongst the United States. For those stationed here, it’s as close to paradise as you can get, with a variety of activities not easily available to those at stateside bases.

Discovered by Captain James Cook, he named what we now call Hawaii, “the Sandwich Islands.” Since first contact, Hawaii has undergone a transformation from a tribal island group, to a kingdom, a republic, a territory and, finally, a fully-fledged member of the United States with Honolulu as its capital.

Honolulu, or “sheltered cove,” is split into five distinct areas: Historic Downtown with the harbor; Waikiki, the prime tourist hotspot; Manoa-Makiki with its Jurassic Park-like tropical scenery; Eastern Honolulu and its land-meets-sea splendors; and Western Honolulu, the military’s Pacific hub.

Oahu

Pipeline is in the heart of Honolulu. Aesthetically, it’s not much to look at since it’s a refurbished warehouse, but once inside, you’ll find the same amenities as any metropolitan club. Featuring live bands, dance music, and large TV screens for sports fans, Pipeline is a raging hotspot for dancers until 4 a.m., every day of the week.
Iolani Palace is the only official royal residence in the United States. Built in 1882, Iolani Palace was the seat of the last two Hawaiian monarchs. This beautiful complex houses the Iolani Barracks and offers a unique tour of the Victorian lifestyle of the Hawaiian monarchy. Across the street from the palace is Ali’iolani Hale, the seat of the Hawaii State Supreme Court. As Iolani Palace was the official royal residence, Ail’iolani Hale represents the transition of the Hawaiian government from monarchy to republic to territory. In front of the Ali’iolani Hale is the black and gold statute of King Kamehameha the Great. Washington Place, a short distance from the state capitol building, is the official residence of the governor. It was also the home of the last Hawaiian monarch, Queen Liliuokalani.

Waikiki Beach is perhaps one of the world’s most famous beaches, and though normally crowded with tourists, its waters still offer a clear blue hue and a warm swimming environment. Surfing, body boarding and other water activities are a must. This is also the beach where Olympic gold medalist Duke Kahanamoku established the religion of surfing. His statue is continually adorned with leis.

The one looming landmark that visually identifies Waikiki is the extinct volcano of Diamond Head. This famous landmark is easily accessible thanks to a pavement that runs up the crater. It’s a mile hike up to the observation deck and its breathtaking view of Waikiki, Honolulu and the Koolua and Waienae Mountain Ranges. Below Diamond Head is Kapiolani Park and its famed Waikiki Shell Amphitheater.

The International Market Place offers more than a hundred different unique stores in the midst of bayan trees. The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center has high-end boutique stores as well as galleries and even more lei stands.

Waikiki has an abundant supply of watering holes, including six LGBT bars near the corner of Kuhio Avenue and Seaside. Hula’s Bar and Lei Stand is easy to find due to the rainbow flag flying proudly on the lanai. Situated on the 2nd floor of the Waikiki Grand, it has an open-air lanai with a wonderful view of Diamond Head and the street below. Great nightlife activity at Hula’s includes drag shows, live music and DJs, not to mention the theme nights held every night. Tapas, Fusions and Lojax on the same block offer the same amenities as Hula’s. A couple of smaller and more crowded LGBT karaoke bars are Wang Chungs and the Inbetween. Wang Chungs sits on Koa Avenue right next to King’s Court, and the Inbetween is literally a hole in wall, stuck in an alley on Kalakaua.

Other popular bars are Kelly O’Neils, which offers live music every night, and Moose McGillycuddy’s, which offers a great selection of “pupus,” reasonably priced drinks and friendly staff. Along with Hula’s, it is one of the oldest establishments in Waikiki. Nashville is Honolulu’s only country bar. It is a bit surprising at first to see country-clad guys in this Pacific paradise, but, truth be known, Hawaii has its own indigenous cowboys.

Hotels are plentiful up and down the strip. Prices vary due to location, type of hotel and beach access. The Hilton Hawaiian Village is a monstrous encampment filled with everything you can find in a Las Vegas Hotel chain. The Sheraton Hotel faces the ocean and offers excellent meeting space for conventions and events. The Royal Hawaiian is the preeminent hotel in Waikiki. A remnant of the roaring ’20s, this “pink palace of the Pacific” sports a distinctive color that can be seen from miles off shore. Legend has it, that same hue was used to paint Tripler Army Medical Center.

Lyon Arboretum, with the Manoa Falls at the entrance, is a lush representative of the rainforest that covers the mountain range of Oahu. Maintained by the University of Hawaii, the botanical garden grows a wide variety of tropical flora and fauna. Incidentally, Hawaii offers 23 of the 26 earth environments, from desert to snow-capped mountain, across the entire archipelago.

The Contemporary Museum and the Honolulu Academy of the Arts have collections ranging from contemporary to more traditional paintings. The Contemporary Museum’s Cooke-Spalding House on Makiki Heights Drive contains works by Frank Stella, Masami Teraoka, Mark Tobey, Jasper Johns, and Vito Acconci.

Makiki is the birthplace of President Barack Obama, and a walking tour of President Obama’s neighborhood takes visitors to his grandmother’s former apartment, Kapiolani Hospital where he was born, Punahou School and the Baskin Robbins where he worked.

The beaches of East Honolulu may not be as famous or romantic as those of the North Shore, but they still provide a great time for water sports enthusiasts. Haunama Bay Nature Preserve, a perfect cove formed from an extinct volcano, contains a variety of sea life that even novice snorkelers can experience.

Those who really want to see Hawaii should hop on one of the affordable flights offered by Hawaiian Airlines for short trips to Kauai, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Niihau and the Big Island.

For those who have never been, Hawaii concocts visions of paradise, Mai-Tais, hula girls and exotic beaches. That fantasy is not far from the truth; meanwhile, Oahu still provides the amenities of a modern major city. But why worry about the comforts of home when the peaceful sounds of Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole floats in the air? There is so much to do on just this island that an entire holiday can be spent here and the visitor can fully experience that aloha spirit.

Unless you’re one of the few who seem to spend more time traveling than back at home station, chances are you’re never quite sure what and how to pack for the next trip. Just like any other mission, preparation is essential. Before you start grabbing clothes from the closet, know where you’re going, how long you’ll be there, climate and cultural considerations, what uniforms are required, and any social responsibilities and fitness opportunities you’ll have.

Once you’ve determined these basics, start with uniforms. Collect everything you need and don’t forget your undergarments, boots or shoes, hats, belts, and blousing straps. You’ll be amazed at how much space uniforms take. Consider travelling in yours, if possible, to help you travel lighter. Plus many airlines offer early boarding and upgrades for military traveling in uniform. Otherwise, be sure to pack the uniform you’ll need on the first day of the trip in your carry-on bag. Nothing is more embarrassing than late or lost luggage causing you to wear civilian clothes in a sea of uniforms. It will not only cost you personal comfort but perhaps that next job opportunity, as well. First impressions are everything.

Ditch the roller bag. Add style and structure to your carry-on with Giorgio Armani’s crocodile-embossed weekender bag. It’s large enough to hold a uniform, including combat boots, and has a compartment on the side big enough for your MacBook. Inserting a tri-fold cosmetic bag with many compartments consolidates all of your toiletries while making your daily regimen— and clearing security checkpoints—easier.

Never wear your uniform oxfords socially—it’s tacky. But if you want one less pair of shoes to bring, consider a civilian pair that is still in regulations. Or, take it up a notch with Cole Haan’s Air Harrison Brogue boots that look good in both dress slacks and jeans, saving you room in your luggage.

Keeping your fitness up while traveling is imperative. Pack at least one workout outfit and a good pair of running shoes. Chances are your hotel will have a small gym and maybe even a full workout room and pool. A lightweight Nike shoe will not only save room in your luggage, it also will give you the best workout experience. Pairing it with a pop of color in your workout shorts will leave you trending for fall. Wear a solid-colored V-neck or your favorite sports team shirt.

The clothes you choose to wear at mandatory social events will speak volumes. Most call for business casual. This never means jeans. The essentials should be a nice, longsleeved button-up, or short-sleeved collared shirt. Prints and bold colors will set you above the crowd. Slim fit slacks and boot-cut khakis are in style; picking a great pair will allow you to easily transition from mandatory social to late-night after party. Last, when selecting luggage, pick something you can use whenever you travel, in or out of uniform. The bag needs to be functional and stylish. Try the Bodhi Vintage Army Shoulder Duffle and Backpack. The outside pockets allow you to tuck away small accessories needed for your trip. Choosing a fabric bag will allow you to pack more than hard-sided or shaped luggage.As you prepare for your TDY, remember that being organized will allow you to travel leaner and lighter while looking stylish and professional. You’ll arrive prepared to make and maintain that great first impression, you won’t have to worry about late luggage, and you can quickly transition from business to evening attire while keeping up with the latest trends.

Cyprus and the Republic of Vanuatu are, literally, a world apart from each other. Cyprus is one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean, and Vanuatu is a tiny chain of South Pacific islands. Cyprus has been at the center of world affairs and great conflicts dating from the legendary battles between the ancient Myceneans and Persians. Vanuatu, not mapped by Europeans until 1768, didn’t even get caught up in the Pacific campaigns of World War II. Cyprus is arid with diminishing water reserves. Vanuatu tries to not to drown from 15 feet of rainfall per year. Cyprus is cosmopolitan. Vanuatu relies on agriculture and tourism to boost a limping economy with negligible natural resources.

What do these places have in common? In short, the answer is drugs, the kind transgender people desperately need for transitions but often are unable to obtain through normal channels. Because of a lack of laws governing requirements for prescriptions and lax regulations on what can be mailed overseas, these two island nations are the source of most mail-order hormones obtained by people trying to transition. As a result, online pharmacies have become a cottage industry in both these nations.

Green Bay, Protaras Cyprus, is an awesome dive site with year-round ideal conditions. There are a few sunken manmade statues ideal for underwater phtography.

Trans people trying to get Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) through normal channels have to jump through many hoops. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) publishes the Standards of Care (SOC) for people who transition. Because the SOC recommends psychotherapy and referral prior to a physician prescribing HRT, the few doctors who handle transgender patients are often hesitant to make a prescription for HRT without said therapy. Doctors who work with trans patients are so uncommon, wait time for an appointment can be six weeks. Few therapists are familiar with gender dysphoria, and few insurance policies cover gender dysphoria-related medical and psychological expenses anyway.So, you can get a prescription for HRT if you can run this course of hurdles:

• You can find a therapist who knows about gender dysphoria;
• Your insurance covers months’ worth of sessions or you’re wealthy enough to pay for them yourself;
• Your insurance company will pay for the workup labs or you can afford to pay $800 for them;
• You can find a doctor willing to work with you;
• Your insurance company will cover the doctor’s visits or you have the money to pay for the visit; and
• Your insurance covers the cost of the drugs at the pharmacy or you can pay for them out-of-pocket.

If you get through all of this, the process can take three months to a year and cost close to $2,000 if you don’t have insurance that covers trans-related care.

Or, you can go online for five minutes and place an order with one of the pharmacies in Cyprus or Vanuatu to get a three-month supply for $200 if you’re a male-to-female trans person, and about $350 for a female-to-male. Shipping time is about two weeks. FPOs and APOs are treated like any other address inside the United States—folks are self-medicating on the front lines out of desperation.

Vanuatu, an island in the South Pacific, lies in the “Ring of Fire” and regularly experiences seismic and volcanic activity. While homosexuality is legal in the country, open displays of affection between same-sex partners will attract adverse attention.

Hormone regimens for male-to-females and female-to-males differ in the particulars. Male-to-female transsexuals typically take one medication to suppress testosterone production plus provide some form of estrogen. Some take a bio-identical form of progesterone in addition to the estrogen and the androgen blocker. Female-to-male individuals generally only take testosterone as part of their HRT regimen.Both the testosterone and estrogen can be delivered as injections. Many doctors prefer injections because it reduces both the cost of the regimen and the strain placed on the liver. However, injectable testosterone or estrogen is not available from the mail-order market due to refrigeration requirements. For female-to-male trans people, the testosterone gel or dermal patch alternatives available online are typically 10 times more expensive than the injectable version. Still, most trans people will go to almost any length to align their bodies and minds and will bear almost any cost burden.

What makes the online, no-questions-asked option even more attractive is that some of the drugs used as part of HRT everywhere else in the modern world, are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The costs of getting FDA approval versus the small market for these particular drugs don’t balance out for the manufacturer. In the United States only one drug is available for suppressing testosterone as part of HRT. That’s because this drug, spironolactone, is also used to lower blood pressure, and its anti-androgenic effects are ancillary.

If you’re a runner (like me) and you take enough spironolactone to significantly reduce testosterone, you often suffer the pesky side effect of passing out cold every time you stand up too quickly. This leaves you with three options: stop HRT, keep fainting at work every other time you get up from your desk, or use one of the newer and better drugs available online, cyproterone acetate, which has far fewer side effects. Unfortunately, the last option carries risks.

Obtaining drugs from Cyprus and Vanuatu is something of a legal grey area. People can theoretically be prosecuted under civil law for ordering drugs from overseas, with or without a prescription. However, since 2006 customs and the FDA have rarely gone after people importing low-risk medications in quantities normal for personal use.
Many trans folk in the military who start transition prior to getting out of the military and use online pharmacies also face civil and UCMJ article 92 risks. Being in one of these countries that sells these legally does not help either; the FDA prohibits importing drugs by mail or on your person, and the UCMJ does not allow seeking medical care outside the DoD system without authorization.

The penalties for using hormones, even those obtained legally, can be severe. What follows are true stories. One trans woman Sailor bought estradiol in Spain, where it can be purchased without a prescription. Her vial was found during a drug sweep, they made her take a urinalysis, and it detected the presence of synthetic estrogen. She was given an otherthan- honorable discharge. A current case involves a trans man who obtained testosterone via a legal prescription from a doctor in the U.S. He was hospitalized for a condition unrelated to gender dysphoria, and his lab work revealed the presence of synthetic male hormones. He has been relieved of duty, had his clearance revoked, and is also facing a potential discharge.

Another risk is counterfeit or low-quality drugs. Some estimates place the value of that illegal industry in the United States at $75 billion. A constant source of discussion on transgender forums is the reliability of different websites, the reliability of the drug manufacturers whose products are being sold on those websites, and where each drug is manufactured. Do you trust the estrogen made in New Zealand or the much cheaper but supposedly identical brand made in India? Which sites are more likely to have their merchandise confiscated by customs?

Some vets will be eligible for Department of Veterans Affairs benefits that cover therapy, labs, and prescriptions for HRT. Others don’t meet the somewhat byzantine requirements for eligibility. The Affordable Care Act doesn’t mandate coverage for transgender-related care, most corporate-provided policies don’t cover transrelated care, and individual policies that cover trans-related care are prohibitively expensive.

This whole sordid story has many lessons. It demonstrates the power of free market economics and the terrible risks trans people will take to transition. It highlights the foolishness of our own medical system and the funny way drugs have of finding their way to demand.

I would sort of like to see where my money went for all those years. Going to Vanuatu seems like it would be something of an adventure.

For more information on hormone replacement therapy, Endocrine Therapy for Transgender Adults in British Columbia: Suggested Guidelines is a good place to start. It is both informative and moderate in tone.

Editor’s Note: OutServe Magazine does not endorse the illegal use of hormones.

I recently conducted a highly unscientific study among my friends and coworkers, asking them a simple question: if you could be stationed anywhere in the world, where would it be? Germany, Germany, Germany. Maybe Italy was mentioned a few times, too. Did I mention that my unscientific study was conducted in Germany? All joking aside, however, there is no denying the appeal that Europe offers to any service member: ample TDY opportunities, easy weekend getaways, and the chance to experience many countries packed into a relatively small area.

As the U.S. European Command commander Adm. James Stavridis outlines in his mission statement, the goal of forces stationed here is “to conduct military operations, international military engagement, and interagency partnering to enhance transatlantic security and defend the United States forward.” This vast mission statement provides service members an opportunity to see the world while performing varying jobs across the European theater.

Having been fortunate enough to live in Europe for the past four years, stationed at Ramstein Air Base, I’m offering my this column points out my recommended “must-do” places and restaurants that aspiring world travelers would want to have checked off their bucket lists when venturing to Europe on either a TDY or vacation. For the sake of clarity, I used Germany as the main hub.

Looking to see the bigger cities of Europe, such as Paris, Berlin, Munich, or Amsterdam? Then take advantage of the European train system. It is fast, clean, and truly a delightful way to travel. For those travelers looking to survey a variety of countries in one vacation, the EuRail pass may be the best option. With prices ranging from $48 to $500 dollars depending on whether you are purchasing global, regional, or country-specific passes, travelers have the option of picking multiple countries to visit without having to buy multiple tickets. In my experience, using trains is by far the easiest and most pleasurable way to go. Not only do you avoid all the security hassles that airline travel engenders, but you can show up just minutes before departure, which allows for more flexibility in scheduling.

For those travelers seeking more obscure destinations, such as Sardinia or Crete, or who want to experience multiple countries in a short period of time, airline travel may be the best option. With airline travel, one has two options: the major airlines or Ryanair. On the major airlines you are guaranteed reliable travel and airports located fairly close to major cities. With Ryanair, you get significantly cheaper fares but airports that are slightly off the beaten path and require additional modes of transportation to reach destinations.

But the difference in pricing can be striking. On a trip I took to Crete two years ago, my round-trip ticket cost €30 euros (or about $40). With major airlines, you often pay in the hundreds of dollars plus luggage fees. Now some caveats. With Ryanair, you have to pay for each checked bag (you’re allowed one carry-on not to exceed 10 kilograms for free). The airline strictly enforces weight and dimension requirements. I have seen many passengers argue needlessly with Ryanair staff members about the size and weight of their luggage only to reach the same conclusion: pay or the baggage stays. In my experience, if you play by Ryanair’s rules, you often get a good bargain. In the dozens of flights I took over the course of four years, I never once had a problem getting to my destination.

GERMANY

Best time of year to travel: June – December
Must Do:

• Oktoberfest in Munich (late September/early October)
• The Wurstmarkt at Bad Dürkheim (second or third week of September); home to the largest wine festival in all of Europe and a carnival that rivals Oktoberfest in size
• The oldest city in Germany, Trier, home to Karl Marx and located on the beautiful Mosel River just one hour from Ramstein Air Base by car.
• Spinnraedl restaurant in Kaiserslautern, located 15 minutes away from Ramstein Air Base, for those looking for exquisite German cuisine in one of the oldest restaurants in all of Germany.
• Christmas Markets. Typically, starting the week after Thanksgiving, cities and villages all over the continent light up for outdoor markets that serve hot wine and delicious food. For those looking for that perfect gift for mom and dad, these markets are sure to meet your consumer needs.
• Berlin. Not only the capital of Germany but also home to the historic Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate, and the beautiful Bundestag (German Parliament) building. Fun fact: Berlin hosts the largest open-air party in the world on New Years Eve in front of the historic Brandenburg Gate. It is one of the few “free” things you will ever find in Deutschland!

ITALY

Best time of year to travel: Spring/Summer
Must Do:

• Carnival in Venice (first week in February). This romantic city turns into a real-life Cinderella ball, full of travelers wearing exotic costumes and masks, mingling with artists.
• Rome. A history buff’s dream, with sites such as the Coliseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican, you cannot leave Italy without visiting this iconic and ancient city.
• Pula, Sardinia. A small island off the western coast of Italy, Sardinia is a lush and beautiful place for couples and honeymooners alike. For those looking for a place to relax and enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, Roman ruins, and a low-key atmosphere, look no further then Sardinia.

FRANCE

Best time of year to travel: All Year
Must Do:

• The Louvre in Paris. France’s (and arguably the world’s) premiere art museum. Prepare to spend hours dazzled by the sheer size and scope of this French museum; famous works include the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, the Wedding Feast at Cana, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
• The Museé d’Orsay. An oft-overlooked museum due to the prominence of the Louvre, the Museé d’Orsay is a gem in its own right. Located on the banks of the Seine River and adjacent to the gorgeous Tuileries Gardens, this museum, housed in an old railway station, has works by Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir, and Cézanne.
• The Eiffel Tower. Paris’s iconic landmark, the Eiffel Tower is a must for any traveler visiting Paris. For those wishing to travel to the top of the tower (highly recommend) it is best to reserve a ticket in advance to avoid waiting in long lines.
• The Latin Quarter in Paris. A trendy, student-dominated area located near the Sorbonne, the Latin Quarter is a fashionable place to spend an evening dining and dancing. With narrow alleys, a wide variety of restaurants, and bright lights, this part of Paris cannot be missed.

Whether you are going TDY to Europe for a few days or stationed in Germany or Italy, Europe has hundreds of historical and luxurious places to explore. Enjoy and represent America well!

• When flying Ryanair, do not forget to print out your boarding pass before arriving at the airport. If you forget it, they will charge €60 to reprint one for you. And be there no later than two hours in advance.
• When traveling by car in Europe, make sure to inquire about certain “vignettes” (aka stickers) that are required on your car when driving through certain countries. For example, the Czech Republic and Austria require you to pay €15 (about $20) for a vignette that is typically good for a week. Prices vary by country (and length of use). Bottom line: if you are caught without one, you could face large fines. Most vignettes can be bought at border crossings.
• When booking train tickets, always pay the extra fee (about $5) to reserve a seat. Having a ticket for a European train does not guarantee you an actual seat on the train, just passage from one destination to another.
• Restaurant tips: Europeans appreciate being left alone when eating. It’s normal to have a server approach your table after you’ve been there for 10 to 15 minutes. If you like ice in your drinks, make sure to specify when ordering, as Europeans prefer cold drinks without ice. When you are ready to leave, make sure to ask for your check and never leave the tip on the table—always hand it to your server directly.

• Total operational budget of $127 million
• Encompasses 51 independent countries
• Troops in Theater: 78, 080 (Army 40,000, Air Force 31,000, Navy 6,200, Marines 880)
• 28 main operating bases (18 Army, eight Air Force, four Navy)
• Focus Areas: ballistic missile defense, building partnership capacity, support to NATO/ ISAF, energy security, respond to humanitarian crisis, foster interagency cooperation, enhance transatlantic security

Holiday parties are in full swing and Tis’ the season to be jolly… and stylish! With so many options to choose from, setting your military uniform aside and showing up to the festivities with a personalized style has never been so easy.

This year’s trends are all about printed, bold textures, and of course, accessorizing. You will be ready for any party, casual or formal. Get in the spirit and do it with style.

Sweaters are great by any fire and home festivities. Picking a bold fabric or a solid tone will keep you trending for this season of gatherings.

His:

Casual Red Sweater – Express $79.90

Casual Merino Crewneck – Gap $49.95

 

Fair Isle Shawl Collar Sweater $69.90

Hers:

Color Blocking Tunic – Gap $29.95

 

Houndstooth Sweater – Gap $54.95

Mesh Dolman Sweater – Express $49.90

Plaid is the go-to print for this holiday season and there’s no better way than by pairing these amazing tailored shirts with a great accessory or blazer. Stand out with great prints.

Plaid Fitted Military shirt Express $69.90

Plaid Western Yoke Shirt Express $69.90

 

Plaid Slim Cutaway – Express $64.90

Dress to impress and walk tall next to your spouse or significant other to any festive cocktail party or formal gathering. Mid-length dresses are great for showing off your legs and flirty is the trend of the season.

Low Back sequins Dress – Express $98.00

Printed Princess Dress – Gap $59.95

Rose Gold Dress - Express $148.00

Textured Blazers are fun and festive. Share the holiday cheer with a structured blazer.

His:

Velvet Blazer - Express $99.99

Herringbone Blazer - Gap $98.00

Hers:

Gilded Snakeskin Print Blazer – Express $79.90

Ultimate Double Weave Knit Inset Jacket – Express $118.00