CONNOISSEUR: GIFTS, TRAVELS & TOYS 

FORM & FUNCTION
Boblbee, the Swedish hard-shell backpack that first became a hit in Europe and Asia, is now showing up on the backs of urban nomads in America. Each pack is designed to internally protect and accommodate laptop computers and disk storage in custom-made pockets. With a lumbar support system, the pack is ideal for carrying books, travel documents, and cameras — and has a specially made pocket for a cell phone or sunglasses. The new backpacks are available in four styles, with prices ranging from $95 to $295. For more information, visit www.boblbee.com.

BAREFOOT CHIC
At Fiji’s Vatulele Island Resort, guests do not don formal wear. Linen shirts, sunglasses, and bare feet are more the style. Dinner is served communal style on the beach under the stars. For guests looking for a more intimate dining experience, meals can be served in a jungle cave or on “Nookie Nookie,” a private island in the middle of the lagoon. Activities at the resort include scuba diving, sailing, snorkeling, tennis, guided jungle hikes, and village visits. For more information on the resort, visit www.vatulele.com.

SLOWING DOWN
Move at a human pace and you journey deep into a region’s culture. That’s just one reason that Butterfield & Robinson’s Tuscany trips are unique experiences for bikers and walkers of all abilities. At times, you’re assaulted by colors, such as the bright red poppies against intense fields of green or the subtle browns of autumn wheat and plowed-under earth. Other times, you discover flavors, such as newly pressed olives, sharp pecorino cheese, and risotto laced with rich truffles. And aromas? Of course. Enjoy the earthy mushrooms in forest shade or ripened grapes being pressed into wine. For the variety of itineraries, visit www.butterfield.com.

THAI STYLE
In the late 1980s, a Colorado couple set up shop in their home to share their passion for Thailand with adventurous travelers. Twelve years later, Rusty and Marilyn Staff and their company, Asia Transpacific Journeys, has become a leading tour operator in Asia and the Pacific. Thailand remains one of their premier destinations and the 12-day “Thai Style” tour promises to showcase the best the country has to offer. Also among the new itineraries are the “Passage to Indochina” tour to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos; and “Burma: Land of the Golden Pagoda,” a 16-day trip that begins in the legendary cities of Mandalay and Rangoon. For information on departures and costs, call 800.642.2742 or visit www.southeastasia.com.

THE ESSENCE OF TIME
From Tag Heuer, this Exclusive Series Chronograph model ($2,295) combines horological know-how with an innovative design. Topping the fine brushed steel case, the well-known 12-sided bezel features 18-karat yellow gold and polished steel. The black dial is shown here. The silver dial is equally sophisticated. For more information, visit www.tagheuer.com.