giftguide

1. The ECBC Tomahawk Messenger Bag ($139.99). This  large, heavy duty messenger bag that fits up to most 17″ laptops, features a TSA Faspass back and luggage trolley handle pass thru, top zipper for access inside the bag without opening flap, a front ticket passport pocket and is water repellant.

2. Paco Rabanne 1 Million Cologne ($79 for 3.4oz and & $95 for 6.7oz ).This high-impact fragrance creates a multi-facetted signature of masculinity. The freshness of grapefruit invites you into this audacious scent, combining in the top notes with mint and blood mandarin. Striking and assertive middle notes follow with a refined yet virile combination of rose, cinnamon, and spicy notes.

3. LINK Armband Weight Management System ($149). The BodyMedia FIT LINK Armband is the most accurate device in the market for measuring calorie burn*. No other consumer body monitoring device can capture calorie burn with greater than 90 percent accuracy, a fact that has been clinically validated when compared to the gold standard in calorie measurement.

4. Apple TV – Digital multimedia receiver ($99). Apple TV with 1080p HD gives you access to the best content — blockbuster movies, TV shows, sports, your music and photos, and more — right on your widescreen TV. You can even play content from your iOS devices on your TV using AirPlay.

5. The Nike+SportWatch GPS (with Sensor) powered by TomTom® ($149.99). Offers GPS tracking, takes splits, reminds you to run—even remembers your PRs. With a customizable display and both GPS and indoor tracking capabilities, it’s a watch you can take on the road, trail, treadmill or any other terrain.

6. NeatDesk (Scanner  $179.95 and Desktop Scanner $399.95 for PC or Mac) NeatDesk is a scanner and digital filing system that intelligently organizes and secures all your important information on the computer. work or at home.  NeatDesk declutters your workspace, providing a central “inbox” for all your papers—ready to scan when you are. removable input tray can scan both sides of up to 15 receipts, 15 business cards, and 15 documents at a time—or even a single, 50-page document.

7.Terofroma Whisky Stones ($20 for 9 cubes). All natural Vermont soapstone whisky stones are a must have for lovers of fine whiskies and bourbons. Milled from a very select type of soapstone, located only in Vermont, these whisky stones are handcrafted in some of the oldest soapstone workshops in the US.Whisky stones are perfect for aficionados who enjoy their beverages with a slight chill, but don’t want to water down the perfect balance of flavors in their chosen spirit.

8.Bose AE2i audio headphones ($179.95). If you love Music matters, bask in the brilliance of your favorite artists with Bose AE2 headphones. Quality and comfort combine for a topnotch audio experience you just won’t get with conventional around-ear headphones. Every note, every nuance rings true, from crisp, clean highs to full-bodied lows. And they look pretty slick, too, available in black or white.

9. Canon – PowerShot A4000 IS 16.0-Megapixel Digital ($179.99).Featuring a 16.0-megapixel 1/2.3″ CCD sensor and optical image stabilization, this Canon PowerShot A4000 IS 6152B001 digital camera ensures crisp, clear shots of subjects and scenes. A built-in media reader offers expanded storage options.

10.ECBC Hercules Laptop Backpack ($139.99). The Hercules is a 1000D Kodra Nylon, extra heavy duty backpack that fits up to a 17″ laptop and features a TSA Faspass back, heavy duty YKK zippers, and a water repellent coating.

11. Star Wars iPhone Case (29.99-$39.99.) Star Wars iPhone cases. The limited-edition, officially licensed cases are available in four designs. Darth Vader,  C-3PO.  Chewbacca( it’s fuzzy!)and R2-D2.

Casey Cochran from Imperial Computer Solutions shows us the new Hercules Laptop Backpack from ECBC. This bag has more than enough room to carry all your high-tech gadgets, from laptop computers and an iPad, to your smart phone and all your power cords and chargers.   It has stylish looks and is perfect for the tech savvy student or traveler.   It’s also equipped with a “Fast Pass” pocket for your computer,  allowing easy access at airport security gate.

courtesy of Fox 17

ECBC’s materials of choice are Ballistic Nylon and Kodra. We carefully chose these in particular because each is known for their resistance to tearing, punctures and abrasions.

They also possess outstanding durability and longevity. Additionally, we treat both fabrics with a Polyurethane coating, making them water resistant.

Important to note, ECBC only uses “high denier” Ballistic and Kodra. Denier is a term that refers specifically to the weight of the fabric. The higher the number, the more resistant to abrasion and tearing. For comparison purposes, many competitors use lower denier weaving. Although lower quality materials make the initial purchase less expensive, in the long run it will result in a shorter product lifespan, which means wasted money spent replacing your tote, backpack, messenger bag or rolling luggage prematurely and unnecessarily.

Which ECBC material is best for you? It simply comes down to a style preference…

B7101-10_SBallistic Nylon

  • Silky, lustrous texture
  • Tech, minimalist look
  • Even, smooth feel
  • Does not hold color well due to the
    inherent properties of the material,
    therefore looks best in black or grey

 

whitek10Kodra

  • Linen type texture with a slight sheen
  • Casual, yet sophisticated look
  • Slightly fuzzy feel that softens over time                                                                                                                          as the weave relaxes
  • Absorbs color easily so we are able to offer                                                                                                                   the line in 5 different colors

pgmagWith Mother’s Day right around the corner you might be scrambling to think of a great gift to really wow Mom. If so look no further-ECBC has great Mother’s Day gift options for mom on the go. ECBC’s product line is the perfect hybrid of unrivaled quality of construction and classic style and elegance. We designed Multiple Storage Pockets and Organizational Panels into every product, providing working moms every opportunity to get and stay organized. Also with the Double Diamond Ripstop Tear Resistant Interior Lining you won’t have to worry about your bag ripping and your gear falling out while traveling with your rug rats.

But don’t just take our word for it… ECBC honored to be names on of Pregnancy Magazine “Great Gift for Great Moms” check out an excerpt below:

“The ECBC Lance Daypack lets you comfortably stash items on your back, while the ECBC Dart Laptop Tote provides an excellent, compact, over-the-shoulder alternative.  Both come in stylish black or grey and are made from durable ballistic nylon, which will hold up to plenty of use and clean up easily should it fall victim to spit-up or a sippy cup malfunction. I love the many compartments built into both bags, with separate sections for your laptop, tablet and pens/accessories.  Easily accessible outside pouches are great for holding travel documents.  The generous padding and foam spacers ensure a snug fit for your laptop’s dimensions (with the Daypack holding up to 17” laptops and the Tote up to 13”), giving you peace of mind that your laptop is safe in transport.  In addition, the Lance Daypack includes a pocket at the top of the bag to safely hold your sunglasses and side pouches that are perfect for water bottles or even milk bottles if you’re transporting drinks for the little one.” -Michelle  Lee Pregnancy Magazine

Click Here to Read the Full Review 

TravelBiz

Do I shake hands? A kiss on the cheek? Two kisses? A bow?. Thinking of all the international customs might be overwhelming, even more so since etiquette can change from country to country. Don’t stress! The guiding principles are universal. When it comes to having good travel manners, it’s important to not get too bogged down with the do’s and don’ts of a culture. Instead just remember the fundamentals of good etiquette: respect, consideration and honesty. These fundamentals and a smile can go a long way when it comes to traveling abroad.

Etiquette plays a significant role not only in business, but overall in foreign travel. In some countries, where gender is rooted in tradition of a particular religion, make sure your aware of what you’re gender role is because some faux pas are often considered unforgivable. For example, in the Arab world, shaking hands is mandatory in a business setting, but touching women in traditional, western dress is strictly forbidden. In India, men and women shouldn’t make physical contact in public other than handshaking. In Japan, older generations may not be comfortable shaking hands with Westerners and it’s important that you don’t get too close to them. In Argentina, women should initiate handshakes with men.

When doing business in Japan also keep in mind the business card exchange is extremely important in Japan It’s know to be almost ceremonial. Always give business cards with two hands and make a point to admire and examine the card. The more time you spend looking at it indicates the more respect you have for the person. In Italy, do not exchange business cards at social occasions; this is reserved typically for business functions and meetings.
Depending on where you are in the world also depend whether you partake liquor business dinner. In Australia, alcohol is discouraged at business luncheons. Drinking moderately at business meals is acceptable in Germany; in Russia, you are expected to drink to establish closer relationships, though again, in moderation. In France, avoid drinking hard liquor before meals or smoking cigars between courses,  the French feel it compromises the taste of the meal.

Most importantly do plenty of research on the business and personal etiquette of the particular country you are planning to visit. Purchase a travel book for the country you are going to visit and remember: Google is your friend. In addition to a smile, it’s always good to have a few words and phrases in your back pocket to use along the way. Remember: You don’t have to be fluent to speak the language. Most locals will appreciate your effort and be more willing to help you in a bind.

Got a long flight ahead of you? Here are a few of our favorite tech savvy ways to stay entertained in the air.

  1. eBooks: Grab your tablet and download the latest bestseller before you fly.
  2. In-flight Wi-Fi : With Wi-Fi on more and more flights, you can check email, shop online or get a bit of work done.
  3. Tunes: Create a playlist of your very own before you board or check out the latest tunes available in flight.
  4.  Podcasts: Catch up on a past shows or maybe a new one.
  5. In-flight Flicks: Want to catch the latest movie release? Simply look ahead. Many planes now provide personalized entertainment right at your seat.
  6. Magazines/Newspaper (In Digital Forma): Reading a big magazine about music, sport or gossip or reading about the latest news in a few newspapers can while away a few hours, especially if you take a few with you and space them out throughout the flight
  7.  Photographs: Photographers see the world in ways the rest of us don’t. See what you can discover through the lens of your smartphone.
  8. Gaming Consoles: With portable gaming becoming more fashionable with adults, consoles such as the Nintendo DS and Sony PSP can lead to hours of fun on your flight. Games like brain training can keep you alert, adventure games like Mario or Sonic are addictive and time flies when playing those!

passportIf you’re planning a trip outside the United States, you’ll need a passport to enter the country you’re visiting and to return to the U.S. Some people do not have a passport because until 2009, exemptions were in place for Canada and Mexico, but this is no longer the case. Acquiring a passport is often a fairly lengthy process with lots documents and filling out an application.

You Must Apply in Person If:

  • You are applying for your first U.S. passport
  • You are under age 16
  • Your previous U.S. passport was issued when you were under age 16
  • Your previous U.S. passport was lost, stolen, or damaged
  • Your previous U.S. passport was issued more than 15 years ago
  • Your name has changed since your U.S. passport was issued and you are unable to legally document your name change

Have less then two week before departure? Don’t fret!
If International travel is less than 2 weeks  away or need to obtain a foreign visa within 4 weeks, you are eligible to schedule an appointment at a one of our regional passport agencies in the US.

Will call service is offered for life/death emergencies and immediate travel. The agency will determine how best to return the passport in order to meet the customer’s documented travel plans.

Have a Little More Time?
You can submit your application locally at a Passport Application Acceptance Facility using routine service or expedite service.

What you need:
Form DS-11

This form is the official application for a U.S. passport, and you’ll have to fill one out before a passport can be issued to you. The application is required for all first-time passport applicants, adults who were issued a passport before the age of 16 or have not renewed their passport for 15 years or more. The application can be filled out and submitted online through the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, or you can print it out and complete it by hand.

Proof of Citizenship
To acquire a U.S. passport, you must be a citizen of the United States and submit proof of your citizenship when you submit your application. There are several acceptable documents:

  • Certified U.S. birth certificate,
  • Previously issued U.S. passport,
  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad
  • Naturalization certificate
  • Certificate of citizenship.

Identification
Proper identification is required. Acceptable forms of identification include:

  • Naturalization certificate
  • Previously issued U.S. passport
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Current government identification card
  •  Current military identification card.

You must have the identification with you, as well as a photocopy of the front and back of your identification when you apply.

Passport Photo
Your passport will contain a photo. You can get your passport photo taken by virtually any professional photo service, but the photo must be two inches by two inches and in full color taken in front of a white background. Your head should be 25 to 35 millimeters from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. The photo should also be no more than six months old and taken directly from the front.

Our Hercules Laptop Backpack was featured on NBC last week and they love it!

PHNjcmlwdCB0eXBlPSJ0ZXh0L2phdmFzY3JpcHQiIHNyYz0iaHR0cDovL3NvbGlkLmV2c3VpdGUuY29tL3BsYXllci9SVU5DUXkxT1FrTTVUbVYzY3kxRVpXNTJaWEl1YlhBMC8/Y29udGFpbmVyPWV2cC1HWVNGR1ZNVkZOIj48L3NjcmlwdD48ZGl2IGlkPSJldnAtR1lTRkdWTVZGTiIgZGF0YS1yb2xlPSJldnAtdmlkZW8iIGRhdGEtZXZwLWlkPSJSVU5DUXkxT1FrTTVUbVYzY3kxRVpXNTJaWEl1YlhBMCI+PC9kaXY+

Hercules Laptop Backpack
• Keeps up to 17” laptop safe & secure
• Flexibility to carry smaller laptop with removable foam spacer
• Convenient, padded front tablet compartment
• Quick access front pocket for important documents
• Stay organized with multiple pockets & compartments
• Air mesh back panel provides keeps your back cool
• Padded shoulder straps provide maximum comfort
• Bag stays in place with adjustable straps
• Bag lasts longer due to high quality material & zippers

If you want to be just like Batman order yours own Hercules Laptop Backpack!

Javelin_Lance_insert_1

Screen Shot 2013-03-28 at 11.58.41 AMIt’s easy to give up on your diet or general healthy eating plan while you’re traveling. Whether the trip is for the family, leisure or business, the constant activities may make it tempting to stop at a fast-food or binge at the gas station whenever stomach starts to rumble.But if you keep healthy food choices on hand, you may maintain a healthy regimen during your travels with a healthy full belly with these tips below.

  • Pack your own meal on the airplane flight or mode of transportation of your choice (remember though no liquids over 3.4 ounces on airplanes). By packing your own meal you are providing yourself more control on what you eat. The meals found at an airport as fatty and unhealthy. Also bring protein and nutritious food that won’t leak or get smashed on your carry on.
  • Hydration is key! Drink plenty of fluids during your trip. If you can, choose water over other beverages while you’re in transit but avoid soda and an excess amount of alcoholic beverages. Avoiding the latter is especially important for minimizing as jet lag and travel bloat.
  • Stock your hotel room with bottled water, fresh fruit and healthy snacks. Doing so helps remove the temptation to indulge in the room’s mini bar or bingeing on fast food while your on your outings.
  • Don’t skip breakfast. Breakfast helps get your body ready for the day full day of activities or business meetings. If your hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, choose a high fiber and protein meal, such as whole grain toast with peanut butter, to give you instant energy and fill you up until lunch.

CES 2013 is finally here!
ECBC has the honor of featuring our bag line at this years CES in Las Vegas, a major technology-related trade show held each January.
Since CES is not open to the public here are a few glimpses into what ECBC showcased.

At CES we unveiled the ultimate carry-on bag for the connected traveler.  With this new line there are three new models: the Pegasus,
the Sparrow and the Falcon.  Check out this new video  by via LAPTOP Magazine shoot straight from the showroom floor of CES  featuring our Travel Bags.

Featured in the booth are also the wonderful new color additions to K7 line “Linen” and “Berry”.You can see the new products and colors for yourself during this year’s CES event by stopping by their booth in the North Hall iLounge Pavilion #6506.

CES1