I bought a great thigh-length jacket at REI a couple years ago - black, lightweight, totally waterproof/windproof material with a hood that rolls into the collar, and velcro at the wrists so you can tighten up when it is really cold or wet. It doesn't have a thick liner, so you need to layer up for cold, but it is really versitile. I have been out in freezing rain/sleet in that jacket with a turtleneck and fleese sweatshirt and been perfectly comfortable.

intex: I attended a <u>very</u> formal event in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen -- wearing clothing that came out of my 21 inch rollaboard. Being denied entry to a posh hotel has absolutely nothing to do w/ how much clothing you take, it has to to w/ being a slob and having no social graces . . . .

I can hike in the Lake District, go to tea at the Ritz, and spend a week in Paris - out of a carry on.

And if everyone did check their luggage - it would simply mean more lost/delayed bags. The airlines can't cope now.

Chances are that XC skiing gear is a good solution. A best is silk underwear for outdoor winter sports. A long white down coat and matching hat and mittens or gloves will make your river time pleasant. Consider sole inserts for your shoes. Downhill clothing is for cold protection and XC gear is to allow heat disapation. After the cruise, mail that gear open via surface mail.

Hi Marsh-

I have had three pairs of Clarks that look similar to the Scarlet shoe under women's dress casual on the Clarks website. The basic loafer style with a little bit of a heel (which is more comfortable for me when doing a lot of walking than a flat shoe.) I am a teacher so I get a new pair every year for school and stand all day in them.

I can't find my dressy version, but it is sort of like the Artisan Couture- a little less coverage and more &quot;girly&quot; looking.

I've used Clarks in the past, but just bought 2 pairs of Pr!vo shoes. They're so comfortable and look fine. I bought mine at Macy's but also saw them in the Eddie Bauer cataloge.

Wow, I just noticed that Clarks makes Pr!vo shoes. No wonder they feel so great!