About Gabrielle Johnson
When shopping finally becomes an Olympic event, editor Gabrielle Johnson is pretty sure she’ll take home the gold medal for Canada – after inquiring about the availability of other colours (lilac? chartreuse?) and politely requesting a discount. Every week, she shares a glimpse into what’s on her style radar.
Great Escape
life/style Toronto
(Jul.06.10)
Even born-and-bred city girls like me can appreciate an escape to the country every once in a while — cottage country, I mean. Summer wouldn't be the same without at least one long weekend in the middle of nowhere, sans access to shops, restaurants, television or the internet. But taking a break from the urban jungle doesn't have to mean giving up all the comforts of home; it just requires a little planning (and some extra trunk space) to get back to nature in style. Here are a few of my cottage essentials:
 |
A luxe beach towel
I'll admit that $260 for a towel — even one as plush and pretty as this oversized Missoni design — does seem extravagant, but I use mine as a picnic blanket, a beach towel and a cosy wrap to ward off nighttime chills. Oh, did I forget to mention I actually found it for $29 at HomeSense?
Missoni Home Ludovica beach towel, $260. Available at www.saksfifthavenue.com.
|
 |
Portable iPod speakers
A great getaway calls for a fabulous soundtrack. These adorable battery-operated mini speakers look as good as they sound, so throw them into your overnight bag and you'll be playing DJ by the dock all weekend long.
iHome iHM79 Rechargeable Mini Speakers, $60. Available at www.apple.ca.
|
 |
A barbecue cookbook
Time seems to slows down at the cottage, which means there are finally enough hours in the day to practice (and hopefully perfect) a few dishes. Get out of the hot-dogs-and-14-bags-of-ketchup-chips rut and try something new. Cookbooks also make thoughtful gifts if you're a guest at someone's weekend retreat.
Grill It! barbecue cookbook, $16. Available at www.amazon.ca.
|
 |
Citronella candles
Nothing ruins an evening in the countryside faster than bugs, so keep the pests away — and create a dreamy ambiance — with these colourful Citronella candles. Your bite-free flesh will thank you.
Multi-coloured Citronella tealight candles, US $6 for a set of 12. Available at www.crateandbarrel.com.
|
 |
A reusable tumbler
If you're like me and get a little antsy when there's no Starbucks within walking distance, the only solution is to bring your addictive delicious iced beverages with you. I always pack a carton of Tazo Chai Tea Latte concentrate and a cute reusable plastic tumbler so I can pretend that civilization is just around the corner.
Cool It Cups, $13 each. Available at www.chapters.indigo.ca.
|
What are your ultimate cottage essentials?