Credit card-sized tools for travelers.

Back in the day, we never went anywhere without a Swiss Army knife.  After all, what could be better than having scissors, tweezers, a screwdriver, a corkscrew, a bottle opener, and a sharp knife all packed into a 3-½ inch package?

We still find our Climber II model indispensable  for road trips.  But Homeland Security frowns on carrying on knives, no matter how innocuous.   And lately, we’ve been trying to carry on our luggage wherever possible.

Ischia -- an Italian island for those seeking the road less travelled.

Ischia isn't exactly off the beaten path, but it's much less popular than its glamorous neighbor, Capri. But no less beautiful.

Reached by a 45-minute hydrofoil ride from Naples, Ischia is only 18 square miles. There are several up-market resorts on the northern end of the island, near the town of Lacco Ameno.

We stayed at Mezzatorre, with a package we purchased through Luxury Link. The views, public areas, and facilities are all wonderful. But this property isn't for everyone. First of all, the location is kind a remote. There's a free shuttle to Lacco Ameno, but you'll have been there and don't that in about 15 minutes. And it's a steep walk from the restaurant to some of the rooms.

Perfume shopping in Positano.

Tumbling recklessly down a steep side of the Amalfi Coast, Positano is one of the most picturesque places in the world. Arriving by ferry, you are greeted by orange and green umbrellas and a school of brightly colored kayaks.

Wind your way up the hillside along the cobblestone alleyways and you'll discover some of the most charming shops in Southern Italy. Antiques, estate jewelry, beautiful stemware, kitchen shops, and clothing stores galore.

Follow the main street all the way to top of the hill. If you're not dressed like an American tourist, you can pop into the legendary Le Sirenuse for a cocktail. On the left side of the street, past the hotel, there's an antiques store with lots of treasures spilling out onto the sidewalk. Profumi di Positano is next door.