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I just need to get away. But where?

Buying an airline package, including flight, transfers and hotel, can be a great way to visit a foreign city, especially well-priced in the off-season.

What are some things I should never leave home without?

My list includes a rubber drain stopper (hotel room laundry), earplugs and a sleep mask for long-haul flights; Tiger Balm to be rubbed under your nose for smelly bathrooms (a problem nowadays) in planes, trains and other public places; and dental floss (good for tying things, emergency clotheslines).

How about clothing -- what's indispensable?

Lightweight, packable silk underwear is invaluable for off-season trips to places like Europe. And a pashmina can serve a variety of purposes, from lightweight blanket to pillow to something to dress up a drab wardrobe.

OK, this is a delicate topic, but what about finding a bathroom?

McDonald's usually has a reasonably clean bathroom open to the public. See also www.thebathroomdiaries.com, which has a listing of restrooms for the traveler.