Recovering from a minor surgery, I have not travelled for five weeks. With business to take care of abroad, I?ll soon be on the road (and in the skies) again. I?ve written before about how to choose a vacation and about where to purchase some key items for your wardrobe. My thoughts on these topics are ever evolving and I have some new suggestions.

It is said that you can know a man by his watch, his shoes, and his suit. Of course, any executive will own each of these items, but the question is, what and where to buy now? Buying any luxury item made overseas requires a consideration of the currency conundrum, and markets have been volatile, with huge surges in emerging market currencies. Then, there is the factor (or scourge) of duties and tariffs, making the decision more complicated. With that in mind, here is what?s on my list and where to find it internationally.

Watches: I?ve suggested before some of the best travel watches. Here are a few brands and where to locate the most classic gentlemen?s accessory:

Patek Philippe: This most coveted of watches won?t be found at a discount wherever you buy it, so head somewhere with a stunning selection and outstanding service?The Hour Glass in Hong Kong.

Breguet: This is Napoleon?s watch, so buy it in Paris. Chrono Passion is the place.

Parmigiani: You can get a great price on Parmigiani Fleurier in Bangkok, surprisingly. There is an impressive selection at Yafriro Audemars Piguet. Head to Bond Street, London for your distinctive AP.

Shoes: If you?ve read my previous notes, you?ll know that I appreciate shoes from Louis Vuitton and Moreschi. These are great brands for ready-made shoes. However, considering that women tend to get so much enjoyment from their shoes and men?s can be rather, well, dull in comparison if you?re not careful, let?s consider a few shoemakers ready to offer something special. These are the ones that use the best materials, including time-cured premium leathers and, importantly, a custom design and fit.

George Cleverly: This is classic British, so don?t get clever and buy a pair anywhere other than the store at 28 Old Bond Street, London.

Corthay: You can find these handmade gems across four continents but get a made-to measure shoe at the flagship La Maison on Rue de Volney in Paris?they have the best prices and, of course, the most extensive variety.

Gucci 1921 Collection: This brand is steadily moving high-end to counter the mass-luxury appeal of its ubiquitous handbags. You should order a pair of customised shoes (loafers, in my opinion) at either the London or Hong Kong stores.

Silvano Lattanzi: These gentlemen can add a serious ?wow? factor to your collection with special accents on classic oxfords or a colourful loafer perfect for the Riviera. Find an extensive range at their Beijing, Shanghai or New York shops.

Suits: I?ve written how a good suit should feel great and last for years, taking you through a career?s heights of achievement and depths of disappointment and life?s most important moments. So get a few great suits. If you are ready to go for a bespoke suit, you may want to plan a trip to London?s famous Savile Row in Mayfair. Wherever you go, choose the right fabric because it will do half of the tailor?s job. The right fabric is Loro Piana. I have tried Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Stefano Ricci and I must say that Loro Piana is the best. One morning I stepped out to head to work, still sleepy from the previous evening?s late events, and I thought for a moment I?d forgotten to put on my suit?a humorous moment that demonstrates the impeccable comfort and wearability of Loro Piana.

Spring is approaching and we are now done with formals. Watch this space for a some thoughts on what and where for spring and summer.

Deepak Ohri is CEO of lebua Hotels & Resorts. He can be reached at deepak@lebua.com