Getaway GOODIES

Arriet ne rea s of weeken escapes an what to take away with her.

Irealise that for most of New Zealand, life is reasonably normal, and getting away for a long weekend is legal. But I'm in Melbourne, the most locked-down city in the world, so for me, and for Aucklanders and those in Waikato, the idea of a mini-break is a fantasy.

Indulge me. As with last week's night out, I would like to imagine a short holiday or two, because I'm dying to go to Sydney, and to book a bach somewhere on the Great Ocean Rd with some friends. These will be very different weekends. In Sydney, I will wear something mildly revealing and talk my friend Ces into a bottle of Champagne. It will be heels and fake tan, though we will likely end up at Darlo Bar after a nice meal. I like to bring a level of slightly tacky glamour in Sydney. You can expect very big hair.

Then, at a beach house in Lorne or somewhere, I won't wear makeup for three days. Linen shirts, denim shorts, and sensible sun hats (because I am terrified of getting burnt). With any luck, there will be nothing but salt water in my hair, and beers will be cracked about 3pm.

There will be a bit of luxury. I like to eat and drink as well as possible, no matter where I am, and there is little that's more luxurious than a sleep in. But it won't be the same vibe as Sydney.

Despite this, the core of my toilet bag will be the same. There will be my La Roche-Posay Toleriane Caring Wash,

$30, lifepharmacy.co.nz, decanted into a smaller container, and sunscreen, hair oil and perfume.

I will fake tan before I go (who can be bothered with that when you are away), and more than likely that will be the Tuscan Tan Self Tan Foam,

$40, adorebeauty.co.nz. This tan claims to suit every skin tone and, while I can't make promises, it works for me and many workmates who don't come from such pallid stock. And, now that Charlotte Tilbury finally has a stockist in New Zealand, I can direct you to the excellent Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow duo, $106, meccabeauty.co.nz.

It's a bronzer and a highlighter, and both are suitable for use as eyeshadow.

That's ideal for a holiday.