Tag: travel

Weekend Retreat: Palm Springs
Palm Springs | California

My cherry has been popped! I finally visited Los Angeles’ hip little sister city of Palm Springs. With as many vacation destinations as I’ve been to across California, Palm Springs had never been one of them. An easy 2 hour road trip will transport you from the bustling beehive of LA to a flourishing desert oasis with resort style living. Even with sweltering heat, its beautiful. It was 109 degrees fahrenheit and understandably, off season. Palm trees and lush succulents still stood tall as they outlined the streets just beneath the blue and taupe mountains.

Just a few minutes outside of downtown sat our quaint, European style villa. My partner in crime for the weekend, Holli, was just as eager to slip into a bikini as I was. I managed to stuff my overnight bag to the brink of splitting zippers. (Hey, a girl can never bring too many bikini options on vacation. It’s a fact.) So it’s no surprise that local fashion isn’t much of a priority in a small town where temperatures reach such highs…the enthusiastic ovation we got from a crowd of locals as we passed by proved that point. However, notable fashion and travel photojournalists still flock to the area to capture the vintage essence of the city and mingle amongst celebrity festival goers at the many events thrown throughout the year.

Here are a few fun facts and things you can anticipate when traveling to this modern meets mid-century city.
- Nicknamed the Golf Capital of the World – The 100th course was opened in 2001
- The city hosts an array of festivals and events
- Unique landscaping and mid-century modern architecture
- Wet’nWild water park helps to battle the hottest days
- The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway gives you a 12 minute long birds eye view of the city
- It’s going to be hot! Bring light clothing, bikinis, sunnies, a hat and plenty of sunblock.
- Downtown has a number of great restaurants to choose from
- Don’t judge a book by its cover. Some of the coolest places have the most drab facades.
- Kings Highway and The Amigo Room (Ace Hotel) whips up a mean brunch
- Casinos nearby
- Stop in Cabazon to shop at the outlets or snap a pic with the giant California Dinosaurs (as seen in Peewee’s Big Adventure).
Accommodations by Villa Royale Inn

Mesh Maze Monokini by Alexibella Swimwear | Sunnies by Dolce & Gabbana | Flips by Havaianas | Pink Peonies Bikini by Siempre Golden

Special Thanks to CLD Style House
July 1, 2015
Rosenthal Wines | Malibu

Rosenthal Wines

Malibu, CA

Ever find yourself wondering what to do on a casual Saturday afternoon in Los Angeles or feel the need for a spontaneous day trip? I found this little gem tucked away in Malibu just across from the beach. You may have driven past it several times on the PCH without notice but the giant sized table and chairs out front are kind of hard to miss.

Rosenthal is the spot to be, especially on weekends, offering live music, wine by the bottle or glass, a gourmet food truck and a buzzing atmosphere boasting fresh ocean air. The vibe is laid back but has a great energy. I love how open they are to bringing outside food. Most guests bring picnic baskets of goodies to indulge in but I’m a big fan of the Azteca food truck that sets up shop on the property. Table space was limited but that didn’t stop us from claiming a small patch of grass and soaking up the sun with a chilled bottle of rosé. I even made friends with a sweet service dog named Silvia that helps deaf children when not lounging at the wine estate. Food, music, sun and furry friends…Not a bad way to kick off the first day of summer.

June 24, 2015
Travel Hacks: Beating Jet Lag

“To travel is to awaken” Lily Tsay

There’s nothing worse than showing up to a beautiful destination after a long flight and having to wrestle with a bad case of jet lag. You can easily miss out on the first day of your adventure or business trip by suffering from exhaustion, dehydration and more. With the help of some travel hacks, it should alleviate the severity of your time traveling woes and help get you back on track.

T I P S

* Determine the time you’ll arrive and plan your in-flight sleep schedule around the local time of your destination. If you have difficulty falling asleep, melatonin is recommended as a more natural sleep aid.

* Don’t nap. Napping at off times when you first arrive can prolong jet lag. Try your best to stay awake until bed time in order to adjust quicker.

* Use the help of Lavender oil to calm your senses and relax. If you’re using a face mask, put a drop or two on it, or a couple on your pillow. The aroma will promote some much needed tranquility

* Wake up in the morning at your normal hour even if you’re still a little tired. I prefer to get out and explore the area. The fresh air and sunshine always fill me with renewed energy and help reset my internal clock.

* Avoid coffee the day of travel if you plan on sleeping during the flight. This is pretty self explanatory.

* Stay hydrated and limit your alcohol consumption. Being dehydrated leads to headaches, disrupted sleep and dry skin.

* Download a soothing playlist to play while resting on the plane or as you prepare for bed. I have a propensity to let it play continuously through the night to put me to sleep but avoid it if you are a light sleeper.

* Take stretch breaks. Stretching keeps you limber and provides a good supply of blood to your extremities. Without it your muscles become stiff and feel more bent out of shape, literally.

* Refresh your eyes with cucumber slices. Long flights make my eyes feel tired and dry but sometimes with some cucumber slices and a little R&R, it brings them back to life. P.S. Sometimes you can shmooze room service into including a couple with your order.

* Soak. Treat yourself to a long hot shower or soak in the tub to help you unwind and rejuvenate. Long flights dry you out so don’t forget to moisturize your skin after a shower when your pores are open!

Happy travels!

May 12, 2015
Dune Bashing in Dubai

This was an experience I had longed to do for quite some time so you can imagine my delight the day we finally headed out to the desert. However, the morning of our planned expedition brought on thunderous grey clouds and high winds, all very bad signs for a day of dune bashing. Just two hours before our scheduled meeting time, the phone call I was dreading came in. Nizar, the owner of Jeepers and leader of the pack, cancelled the outing. It was really starting to feel like the universe was working against me on this one but by some small miracle, the weather actually began to clear up a bit.

Come 1pm, a convoy of Jeepers club members rolled out of a petrol station parking lot as one beautiful, beefy convoy headed towards the Al Hatta Desert and…well, maybe you should just watch…

Shot using the GoPro 4 silver

April 30, 2015
5 Things You Must Absolutely Do This Summer

1. Take a road trip. Go anywhere! Even if you’re not quite sure where you’re going, just get in the car and go! Richie and I have had plenty of mornings where we’ve woken up and decided to skip town for a night or two. It’s exhilarating to pack a quick bag and just get on the road with no set plans. Its the adult version of being a kid and the adventures your bicycle could take you on. Most of us are so accustomed to hoping a flight to vacay but a road trip is a great way to gain a broader perspective of the city or state you call home. Roadtrippers is an awesome site I recently discovered and helps you find anything you’re looking for, be it strange attractions, the best places to eat or a way to tour all your favorite film locations along your route.

2. Go to a concert. Better yet, make it an outdoor one! Summer doesn’t seem complete without enjoying an afternoon or two of live music. It just does something to the soul. Summer brings on plenty of tour dates for popular performers but live bands at local digs or festivals are sometimes more fun and less expensive. Let Fest 300 tell you what’s going on in your area.

3. Picnic. It’s one of my favorite ways to get together with friends and family and there are so many fun places to do it. Don’t limit yourself to parks or beaches, try rooftops or lakes, museums, vineyards and even some cemeteries have beautiful grounds that are open for such outings. If you’re in LA, Discover Los Angeles.

4. Play a sport. Maybe you aren’t inclined to join a team, although it has recently come to my knowledge that there are legitimate adult kickball leagues, but you should consider organizing a weekly or bi-weekly rally of friends for a physical activity. I’m a beach girl so my rallies usually consist of what I call a ‘Beach Gang”. We get together and cruise the boardwalk with bikes, skateboards and rollerblades. Beach volleyball, tennis and hiking are also great exercise and fun to do with friends.

5. Spend more time with loved ones. This goes without saying but sometimes we get caught up with our social lives and summer plans. The aforementioned ‘must do’s’ are easy to incorporate family and friends into however, don’t disregard how rejuvenating an afternoon lounging at the house can be. Good conversations and quality time with your favorite people is one of the most rewarding ways you could spend your time.

April 28, 2015
Dubai Miracle Gardens

Dubai, U.A.E.

One of the many reasons I love social media is the power to explore and learn more about any given place or thing. I was directed towards the Dubai Miracle Gardens via a recommendation from a fellow Instagrammer and vowed to visit before I left. With one free day remaining, we didn’t let a tiny dust storm hinder us from checking it out.

This colorful trail of umbrellas is what initially caught my eye and also happened to make the perfect place to take an interlude from the sun. The temperature over the past few weeks had actually been quite temperate but as luck might have it, it was dusty and muggy the day we were destined to go. Luckily my years spent living in south Florida prepared me well for days like these.

Just to get an idea of the size of the Dubai Miracle Gardens, the grounds feature over 45 million blooming flowers at any given time. As of 2013, it has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records for having the tallest vertical garden in the world.

Each bend of the path offers something more wild and creative. 45 different species of flowers coat large structures shaped as peacocks and windmills, they billow off faux homes lining a path that mimics the streets in a neighborhood of houses and create a mesmerizing field of patterns. There is literally something incredible to gawk at in every direction you look.

I loved the imagination that went into creating this exhibit. I thought the concentric hearts had won me over until I saw this beautiful display of artistic landscaping.

Should you ever get the opportunity to play tourist in Dubai one day, the magical gardens are certainly a spectacular sight to see.

Dress by Endless Rose | Heels by Steve Madden | Jet Set Purse by Michael Kors | Sunnies by Coach

Special Thanks to CLD Style House

***

“A flower does not think of competing with the flowers next to it, it just blooms”

April 7, 2015
10 Fascinating Facts About the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

If you’re in the UAE, The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque should absolutely be added to your bucket list! It’s an easy day trip from Dubai and well worth the hour drive. There’s plenty of culture, design and record-setting feats to uncover that make this mosque an magnificent place to explore. Added bonus: entry is completely free! Keep reading to discover 10 fascinating facts about the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.

Check for updates, pricing, hours and directions here before your visit.

Circumstances throughout the day prevented me from the mid-afternoon stroll I had originally planned on. Instead, I ended up exploring the grounds at dusk. I’ve come to learn that the best time to visit happens to be in the early morning or evening, as it can be quite hot throughout the day.

As I arrived, a stealthy crescent moon peeked out above the bulbous Moroccan inspired architecture like a beautiful lunar accent and glowed softly against a pale purple sky. The call to prayer suddenly came on and as the hypnotic cry drifted through the air and the wind gently twirled around my head scarf. I felt a great sense of peace come over me. The Grand Mosque is an incredible sight to see, meticulously handcrafted and breathtaking in every direction. Regardless of religion, there’s a level of artistry and respect unquestionably due to Sheikh Zayed and his team for constructing such a magnificent piece of cultural history. I learned a little something along my journey through the Grand Mosque and now, so can you. Here are 10 fascinating facts I learned about the Grand Mosque.

10 facts about the Grand Mosque

10. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the third largest mosque in the world. Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia being the two largest.

9. This was an AED 2.5 billion (more than half a billion USD) project beginning in 1996 and finishing in December 2007.

8. There are 82 marble domes, designed with Moroccan influence.

7. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is also the last resting place of the man himself, who passed away in 2004.

6. Grand Mosque can accommodate up to 41,000 worshipers at once. The main hall alone can house up to 10,000 people!

5. There are more than 1,000 columns made of inlaid marble panels donning floral designs with semi-precious stones and another 96 columns in the main prayer hall.

4. Building materials were sourced from all around the world and include marble, stone, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals and ceramics.

3. Inside you will find the world’s largest chandelier, made of thousands of Swarovski crystals, stainless steel, 24 karat gold and brass, with the glasswork from Italy. It weighs an astonishing 12 tons!

2. Once inside you’ll notice the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, designed by Iranian artist Ali Khaliqi and hand crafted by 1,300 artisans. The carpet was designed in 8 months, took a year to knot and 2 months to transport and assemble amongst 1,200 workers.

1. A unique lighting system gradually changes with the phases of the moon to become lighter as the moon becomes full, making for a breathtaking backdrop.

Discover more unique experiences in the UAE! Explore the magical Dubai Gardens or go Dune Bashing in the Al Hatta desert!

PIN THIS FOR YOUR TRIP!

March 31, 2015
Blue Marlin Ibiza vs. Blue Marlin U.A.E.

Chances are, if you’ve been to Ibiza or Dubai, you’ve heard of Blue Marlin Ibiza/U.A.E. These notorious beach clubs are synonymous with laid-back daytime dining, tanning or dancing reserved for the more sophisticated partiers. Both locations chose secluded locations, nestled comfortably on a sandy beach situated next to a beautiful body of water and boast a modern splash of all white furnishings. It’s safe to say you’d thoroughly enjoy your time at Blue Marlin Ibiza and, most importantly, they have a consistent lineup of world class DJ’s and musicians preforming live throughout each week during season.

During the 3 weeks I spent in Dubai, Blue Marlin was on my radar. I’ve frequented the sister property in Ibiza on multiple occasions throughout my travels and was eager to experience the Abu Dhabi version. As luck would have it, Luciano, one of my favorite DJ’s in the tech-house scene, was the headliner the day I ventured in. Each location is beautifully designed with a posh, lounge-like feel but are also unique from one another. It’s hard to ask for much more than sun, fun and good vibrations but if you happen to be torn between destinations for one of the world’s best day parties, here’s my ‘Top 9’ of who did it better.

A.B.U. D.H.A.B.I.

I.B.I.Z.A.

March 17, 2015
Travel Tips: How to Keep Your Immune System Happy & Healthy on the Road

Traveling and germs unfortunately go hand in hand but the good news is, there are plenty of ways to help combat that bacteria and keep you as healthy and safe as possible. There’s never a convenient time to battle a cold when you’re on the go but we’ve all fallen victim to it at some point. Since planes, trains and automobiles are a big part of my life, I have adapted some habits that I know have spared me some icky viruses throughout my travels. As always, maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle regularly is the best way to prevent illnesses so make it a point to continue your efforts even when you’re not on the road!

1. Take your vitamins! If you don’t normally take vitamins everyday, I won’t tell your mother, but when you consider just how beneficial it is to your immune system you might be more mindful about it. However, if you’re only willing to pop a few for your travels, I highly recommend packing some vitamin C, zinc and echinacea. Take the recommended dosage before leaving for the airport and be sure to pack extra in your carry-on. Vitamin C boosts your immune system and has plenty of antioxidants. Zinc protects your from colds and aids in digestion as well as relieves stress. All very helpful, especially when we fly. Echinacea is widely used during cold and flu season to stimulate cells responsible for fighting illness.

2. Keep your kisser clean! Not only will you appreciate soft, moisturized lips but using chapstick or my favorite, Aquaphor, helps to protect you from coming in contact with germs. For additional protection, use a Q-Tip to apply a bit to the inside of your nostrils. I keep a travel sized Aquaphor in my bag at all times for dry lips, hands/cuticles, fly-away’s and repelling those yucky germs. Now, if only it repelled bad pick up lines.

3. Be sugar free! It’s hard to pass up Cinnabon, I know, but the more sugars you consume, the more susceptible you are to getting sick. If you need to satisfy your sweet tooth, try opting for fresh squeezed orange juice. Let me also clarify that by fresh I mean squeezed on the premise at the time of ordering it, not just what it says on a bottle. It’s a healthier sugar and gives you a boost of vitamin C, which you can only get from fresh squeezed OJ! Fortunately more and more airports are catching on to the fresh food movement and are providing healthier options in terminals. Gum, dried fruits and granola (in moderation) are great snacks to curb your appetite and give you that taste of sweetness you crave.

4. Hands off! Our hands come into contact with people, places and things all day long. On average, we touch our face (eyes, nose, mouth) approximately 10-15 times per hour. That gives bacteria plenty of opportunities to make their way into our bodies. Be more vigilant about what you touch and how often you disinfect your hands. Carry antibacterial gel with you and use it regularly, especially after shaking hands with anyone or handling money.

5. Hover and hold! I really don’t think I need to elaborate on this one but ladies, never, EVER sit on a public toilet without the proper barrier between your skin and the seat. Better yet, hover and hold to avoid contact altogether and use your foot to flush. On the upside, the longer you hover, the better your glutes will look. Winning!

6. Hydrate while you migrate! Drinking enough water seems blatantly obvious but most of us don’t. Flying dries you up, particularly your mucus membrane which lowers your resistance to infections, so it’s important to rehydrate ourselves to keep our bodies functioning properly and eliminating waste. Staying hydrated also prevents headaches and creates a better environment for your cells. Sodas and bottled juices are tempting when they come around with the beverage cart but they’re filled with tons of sugar and will only make you feel more bloated and thirsty. If you prefer something with a little flavor, opt for a caffein-free tea. I bring my own tea bags with me, since I prefer a better quality than what most airlines offer.

7. Give it a break! As an avid traveller, I am usually always on the move– before, during and after travel. It’s a nonstop cycle for me which means there are undoubtably days where I don’t give myself sufficient down time. I have a horrible habit of waiting until the night before my trip to pack and sometimes it doesn’t allow me enough time to get a full night’s rest. My mom always says, “You can sleep when you’re dead” but without that R&R your body won’t be able to fight off germs or reboot it’s programs. Just like a computer, we need to shut ourselves down once and a while in order to keep things running properly!

8. Sock ’em! Taking off your shoes may be mandatory at most airports these days but socks should absolutely ALWAYS be worn when passing through the security checkpoint. If you think about how many thousands of people trek through the airport each day and don’t wear socks, it leaves plenty of chances for bacterial or fungal infections to take place. No thank you!!

February 19, 2015
Fashion Vlog |DeziStyle in Paris

Paris at any time of year has it’s own bit of magic. I spent a late afternoon in September strolling through the streets of the city, soaking in the warmth of the sun and subtle sounds of birds, beeping horns and murmur of people chatting away. However, all seems to pale in comparison to the grand standing Eiffle Tower. It’s difficult not to gawk at the incredible display of iron lattice work that pierces the satin blue sky.

In this vlog, you’ll take a stroll with me through Champ de Mars and get into a little mischief. For details on this outfit, click here.

Special thank you to Richie Chance for your videography (and patience)!

[videos file=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dr0QQdFLYGI” width=”504″ height=”283.5″][/videos]

February 3, 2015
Snowboarding in Big Bear (Video!)

I spent this past weekend in Big Bear, CA with a great group of friends to celebrate my birthday and get in a little snowboard action. As this was only my 5th or 6th time actually snowboarding, I was faced with the challenge of pushing myself to finally learn how to ride toe edge once and for all. For those of you who don’t know what that means, let me sum it up by saying it’ s completely intimidating and has been the most difficult maneuver to master thus far, at least for me.

Getting better at something that commands repetition and exerting so much physical AND mental strength seems daunting, if not impossible when faced with such a situation. Multiply that by high speeds, slippery slopes and painful trial and error. It’s a learning curve that is procured the hard way but is incredibly rewarding when you begin to see the results of your effort. By the end of our second and final day snowboarding, I made a conscious decision to not be afraid of toe edge. I knew I wouldn’t be happy with myself if I left this trip go by without passing another milestone in my quest to master the board. Playing sports all my life undoubtably attributes to my ambitious nature. I believe sports creates a healthy, competitive environment and pushes you to your limits in order to succeed. The feeling of accomplishment is an incomparable high that keeps me motivated to try even harder on the next go. Sure enough, once I let go of fear and trusted my instincts, I was gliding down the slope with not only ease but an overwhelming amount of confidence.

The reason I’m sharing this story is not to bore you with my novice snowboarding achievements but to share my mini epiphany. As I sat in the hot tub and grimaced with sore muscles and weary bones, I thought some more about what challenges me. We all have goals set for ourselves, some are more complicated tasks than others but ultimately we should be working towards a bigger picture each and every day. Often times we put imaginary limitations on our desires because the fear of failing clouds our rational thinking to a point where it feels more safe to not do anything at all. Some people may describe that feeling as anxiety. We’re all guilty of experiencing it once in a while but the goal, if you dare take it on, is to confront it instead of letting it get the best of you. Once you challenge it, there must be an outcome and, at the very least, it comes with a sense of pride for having the capability to address your insecurities. It means you are willing to take steps to improve yourself, your life and become someone who has the ability to evolve into an all around better person.

With all these realizations occurring in my mind, I was forced to confront my own inadequacies. I have told myself for some time now, perhaps years, that I would create an outlet to share my world with others through pictures, videos and writing. I finally began that journey in late August 2014 by starting this very blog and it’s been the most gratifying experience, career-wise, that I’ve ever felt. Not that starting a travel and lifestyle blog is a very risky thing, but putting your personal images, thoughts and feelings up for criticism by the whole world, bi-weekly, can make one apprehensive. Now that I have successfully created and nurtured DeziStyle.com to where it is, the time has come to do what I set out to do a long time ago; share my videos with you. But since I know myself well enough to know it’s better to set ongoing goals, I am hereby daring myself to a 30 day video challenge!

For the next month, I will be adding a video clip to my YouTube channel each day (or at least try my best to). Long or short, funny or not, raw or edited to perfection, I will share a piece of my life with you all, whatever it may be. And, if you’re feeling inspired or would like to join me on this challenge, tag me! I’d love to do it together!

Since my revelation came to me in the form of snowboarding, it’s only appropriate that it be the first video to start the challenge. Here’s to taking risks, following through and evolution!

**UPDATE! Since this post was created, I have joined the social media platform, Snapchat (username: DeziStyle). For those very few who don’t know about this new sharing app, it’s basically a medium for anyone to instantly share picture and/or video content with fans. The catch: it disappears the moment it has been viewed or at maximum, 24 hours, depending on the sender’s preference. This is where I have found that it’s easier for me to share myself, my thoughts and adventures in a raw, organic, in the moment approach. However, I am not giving up on YouTube so be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for upcoming videos! =)

[videos file=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02Fcvhc2r4I” width=”535″ height=”301″][/videos]

January 27, 2015
Beach Day in Akumal

Photography by Richie Chance

Location: Akumal, Mexico

Bikini by Siempre Golden

Special Thanks to CLD

After much anticipation, it was refreshing to step off the plane in Cancun with a burst of humid air sweeping over my airport chilled bones. Over the course of the past year, I’d heard a lot about this budding new town called Tulum. Located in the Yucatan peninsula, it had a similar vibe to much of the Mexico I know closer to home in California, only this seemed to have a bit more mysticism in the air. The history of the Mayan empire fascinated me and I couldn’t wait to explore the ruins as well as the cenotes. If you’ve never heard of a cenote, I highly recommend you google it.

Amongst other activities, I was eager to find the best tacos in town (which I did) and visit the beautiful beaches of Tulum and Akumal. Unfortunately, the saying is true, “If you want to make God laugh, just tell him your plan”. It down poured 4 out of the 5 days throughout my trip. I wasn’t able to visit the ruins or the cenotes as planned. Instead, I used the only semi-sunny afternoon to race over to the beach. After all, it wouldn’t have truly felt like a trip to Mexico without at least a couple hours in my bikini, and a very cute one I might add.

After lunch at La Buena Vida, I stripped down to this incredibly feminine yet sexy floral print bikini by Siempre Golden and enjoyed the hell out of my solo sunny day. Hey, I’ll take what I can get. I was just grateful for a luminous afternoon, but you’d better believe I’ll be back for more.

January 8, 2015
The Beauty Guide to Staying Healthy & Hydrated During the Holiday Season

Staying hydrated is crucial to your health, appearance and overall well being, so DeziStyle is here to help you target some key areas. These products are personal favorites but feel free to take the concept and find a brand that suits your preferences. I tend to opt for natural products as often as I can and there are a lot of great ones out there if you’re willing to do a little research.

With proper hydration your skin will glow, your hair & nails will grow stronger, and you are less susceptible to disease and other ailments. Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to function properly so why not give it what it needs to preform at full steam. Here are a few ways to feel revitalized and pamper yourself from the inside out. Take note that some of these products are best used during drier months and may be switched out when the weather warms up and humidity levels rise again.

1. Keep your hair happy and healthy!

The winter can be harsh on your hair, even in sunny California, so it’s important to take extra care during the cooler months when the weather is dry. Brittle hair isn’t a good look on anyone so do yourself a favor and be sure to give your luscious locks a little more TLC this holiday season. Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask has traveled the world in my toiletries bag to give my hair some serious hydration when I’m on the go. I love the smell and it makes my hair so smooth and silky, even after one treatment.

2. Keep your kisser kissable!

There’s nothing worse than ending up with dry, cracked lips under the mistletoe so why not put an end to painful dry lips with an inexpensive, mega-intense lip repair by Aquaphor. It has vitamin C & E, shea butter and a soothing chamomile essence. I use it in my routine every morning and before bed each night.

3. Supplement your daily intake

We all indulge during the holidays, at least just a little. Our sugar and alcohol levels are generally spiked as much as the holiday party’s punch bowl and sleep schedules are far from what they were just before months before. We tend to deplete ourselves of the proper nutrients in favor of flaky pies and holiday themed cocktails but I always treat myself to a boost of nutrition every morning with a medley of vitamins including biotin (for hair & nails), vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin D3, zinc, omega 3 fish oil, calcium, collagen, lecithin & B-complex. They vary depending on symptoms or necessity but the aforementioned are my staples. However, let’s say you’d prefer to take one, all encompassing vitamin instead. MegaFood is a terrific brand that is certified farm fresh and vegan, amongst it’s many accolades. They offer a women’s multi-vitamin that can be taken even on an empty stomach. Perfect for combating those caffein filled mornings that I know we are all guilty of.

4. Keep your cuticles hydrated

Keep your mani fresh and revitalize your cuticles with Julep Essential Cuticle Oil. This travel sized roll-on oil contains 7 essential oils for strengthening nails and cuticles and smells therapeutic. *Pro tip: Use a small amount of the oil to tame fly aways

5. Don’t forget to moisturize

I truly am obsessed with this Intensive Care lotion by Eucerin. It’s the bomb.com and I tell no lies. Just think of the difference it would make on his hands too. 😉

6. Seal your locks

My hair dresser started using this on my hair years ago and I never looked back. I use this at home, at the salon, and on my travels. Literally wherever my hair goes, so does Paul Mitchell’s Super Skinny Serum.

7. Plump up your face

Moisturizing your skin fills in lines and reduces the appearance of imperfections. By applying a quality moisturizer each day, your skin will radiate health, youth, and be less prone to acne. I’ve been using this one for years now. In fact, I own quite the arsenal of Raya products because they are made with excellent ingredients and work very well. I use this Vitamin B cream during the winter and switch to the Vitaplex-C revitalizing cream to replenish vitamins C, A, D, and B as well as help combat UV radiation. It’s non-greasy but deeply soothing to the skin and made of key natural ingredients. Check out their whole line of products at Raya.com

8. Teatox: Delicious & Nutritious!

I have yet to meet a tea I do not like and luckily my tenacious addiction is a healthy one. I choose my tea based on time of day, flavor and medicinal benefits. I strongly urge you to research your top health concerns (ex: weight loss, immunity, digestion, cramps, energy) and pick a tea recommended to aid in each scenario. Drinking tea throughout the day keeps you hydrated but it’s hard to take with you when you’re busy. My most used item I own could quite possibly be my sealable Thermus brand tumbler. It keeps the liquid inside either cold or hot for up to 8 hours. (Why not add this item to your XMAS list! Any avid coffee or tea drinker would definitely appreciate one of these).

9. Make ’em hard

My sexual innuendos may be weak but my nails won’t be! OPI Nail Envy is going to cost you a little more than your average polish but you can count on having strong, lustrous nails with the use of this strengthening formula.

10. Feelin’ Fresh

Use an all natural toner like this floral rose water by Fresh. It’s 100% pure rose water and helps to sooth & tone your face. This concoction gets extra points for being sulfate free with no synthetic dyes or fragrances. A nice, refreshing mist or two is all you need after cleansing the skin.

December 16, 2014
8 Great Gift Ideas for Jet Setters

Shopping for gifts can be hard and with the holidays just around the corner it’s time to start thinking about checking some names off your list! If you’ve got someone in mind who’s been known to traverse the globe, look no more for the perfect gift. I compiled a list of 8 great gift ideas to choose from that can be appreciated by one experienced traveler to another.

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Personalized Travel Accessories: These leather accessories from Neiman Marcus are the perfect gift for anyone who’s always on the go. Choose from passport covers, luggage tags, travel wallet and zippered carrying cases with chic graphics and a variety of colors to choose from. $22+

The Perfect Weekender: I seem to always have a travel bag packed whether its for darting from photoshoot to audition or getting the hell out of dodge for the weekend. Needles to say it’s something I basically use on a daily basis so it might as well be pretty! This weekender by Tuscany Leather is quite a show stopper in red but there are other options for those who prefer to be a little more demure. $290

External Charger: This little gadget has saved me on so many occasions when my battery was dying and there’s no time or place to plug in. I personally recommend this charger by Mophie. I’ve gotten about two full charges on my iPhone from one battery life cycle, which is pretty darn good if you ask me. There’s no more stressing the next time you board a long flight with one of these bad boys in tow. $130

Bluetooth Travel Speaker: As most know, I’m somewhat “ambiance obsessed”. I love having certain comfort items with me when I’m on the road, including my music. It makes me feel more at home when I’m staying in hotels or even just lounging by the pool. iHome is a great brand and after a year of constant use, mine is still as good as new. The sound is great and so is the price. What more can you ask for? $30

Ear Buds: Traveling with your own pair is necessary. Yurbuds are a great fit for those who want to utilize all of the convenient features they offer such as remote volume control, a speaker for taking calls, and being sweat & water resistant with a twist lock feature. They’re great for travel and the gym! $20

Travel Organizers: If cleanliness is next to godliness, I’m sure organization is somewhere in the mix. These bags by Travel Smith are a great way to access exactly what you need and keep track of what you brought. They can also come in handy for those times when your bag is overweight and you need to stuff a few things in your carry-on. $23

Hero 4 GoPro: Let’s put it this way- I have two. Some of my favorite videos along my travels were taken on GoPros. The newest GoPro, the Hero 4, features 4K30, 2.7K50 and 1080p120 video, 12MP photos up to 30 frames per second, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth®, and Protune™ for photos and video. Waterproof to 131’. $499

International Converter: I’ve been through several over the years but I really like this iGo because it allows me to simultaneously charge two other devices through it’s USB ports. $20

December 4, 2014
Eurotrip Flashback

Photography by Richie Chance

With summer now being a thing of the past, I couldn’t help but reminisce through photos from my September travels through Europe. Time has flown by but my senses are still tingling with the sights and smells of Italy, Paris and Copenhagen. It’s hard to believe the holiday season is already upon us and it’s time to jet set again. But first, I wanted to share a few more unpublished photos from the trip with you all. Au Revoir!

Ah, the Paris metro. I’m glad the picture turned out because we missed the last train home that night!

He was such a sport. I wonder why he’s smiling so big.

Did a little stand-in work while I was at Versailles…

Ancient wall in the Versailles gardens= prime selfie real estate.

On a mission to find the best pasta spot in Venice, Italy.

These boots were made for walking.

Wandered into a unique exhibit while in Venice, Italy.

On a gelato mission, of course.

Mission Accomplished.

Street art in Copenhagen.

Stopped by a roadside produce stand in Positano for some fresh squeezed OJ and a bundle of grapes.

Attempting to show the Venetians some David Blaine magic.

Evenings in Positano are so dreamy.

Beautiful Copenhagen.

A city that has bike lanes, great food, city wide rollerblading parties and a green light district. Copenhagen should be renamed ‘Dopenhagen’.

When in Rome…go visit David, the mastermind behind Mela e Cannella gelateria.

November 18, 2014
Street Style: Rome

Photography by Richie Chance & Desirée Anderson

Blouse by Bebe | Shorts by O2 Denim | Purse by Rebecca Minkoff | Sandals by Unisa | Necklace by June July Melrose | Watch by Michael Kors

I couldn’t be happier to spend the last days of summer strolling through the cobblestone streets of Rome with gelato in hand. The heat of the day was no match for all the fall attire that already began infiltrating Instagram and top fashion blogs. If I could have worn a bikini around town, I would have. The hot and sticky weather was a nostalgic reminder of my decision to uproot from South Florida but for some reason, I paid no mind to the humidity and squandered the afternoon soaking in the city. A brilliant idea, I might add.

October 7, 2014
Château de Versailles

Photography by Richie Chance

Jacket by Bebe | Jeans by Sneak Peek | Purse by Rebecca Minkoff | Necklace by Blush and Blue

Opulence is an understatement when it comes to Versailles. No expense was spared to build this incredible chateau…and it shows. Each crevice was intricately designed with detail and luxury as the pinnacle of utmost importance. Versailles has been listed as a world UNESCO site for some time and rightfully so. This incredible palace is one of the most famous and integral parts of 18th century French art and history.

October 3, 2014
Travel Diary: Belvedere San Costabile

Belvedere San Costabile, Italy

Photography by Desirée Chance & Richie Chance

Necklace by DeziBijou | Sunglasses by Dolce & Gabbana | Skirt by F21

Belvedere San Costabile lay a short distance away from the beautiful little beach town of Santa Maria where we shot the American Apparel bikini post. I was curious to see the coastline from the tippy-top and 3o minutes later my wish was a reality. There was an overwhelming calmness all around. The pictures almost seem to capture the serenity that blanketed the castle walls and corridors. The sound of birds and occasional whisper of wind through the trees was the only thing that could be heard. I wandered up and down the small, empty cobblestoned pathways that connected humble homes with churches and randomly placed restaurants, only to feel like I was the only person left in the world. It was a feeling of peace that I had been longing for since my rendezvous with the bustling Venice canals just days before.

September 29, 2014
American Girl in Italy

Photography by Richie Chance

Bathing Suit by American Apparel

One of my favorite parts about Italy was the time spent beach side in Santa Maria. After the Amalfi Coast it was nice to spend some time at a beach with only a handful of locals and a little beach bungalow pumping jazz music. The water was crystal clear, displaying the sea life like a placid glass case. With perfectly hot weather in store it was the ideal afternoon for doing nothing more than lounging around in a bikini. I picked up this one at American Apparel just before I left on my trip. I love, love, love pieces like this because I like to have multifunctional clothing, especially when traveling.

Although this suit is most definitely made for the water, it’s super cute to wear with a skirt (high waisted pencil or skater) or pair with denim shorts. I bought the same suit in black and found it works really well as a sexy top at night. Side boob, anyone? Anyways, American Apparel always has a few great pieces like this one that are simple to dress up or down so if you’re ever in the market for something classic and understated, might I recommend you take a peek at what they have in store. And most definitely check out Santa Maria di Castellabate should you find yourself driving the coast of Italy in search of a sleepy little beach town.

September 26, 2014
Amalfi Coast: Castles in the Sky

Photography by Richie Chance & Desirée Anderson

Dress by GUESS

After driving countless kilometers from the north of Italy, the Amalfi Coast was a sensational sight to see. The anticipation of the journey there was well worth it though. I remember driving uphill for an extraordinary distance when, all of a sudden, the mountains parted just enough to see a sliver of what seemed like endless blue sky. At first glance, it looked like the earth had just melted away into an infinite abyss of sapphire haze. I had to rub my eyes to make sure they weren’t playing tricks on me. The sky and vast sea had blended into one, with no distinguishable seam. It’s at that moment, you realize just how high up you really are.

Colorful structures dot the cliffs aside the lemon trees and voluptuous vineyards that cloak the hillsides, creating a beautiful kaleidoscopic effect as you gaze down the coastline ahead. The roads writher around narrow bends like a mischievous snake, each turn quickening your heart rate with expectations of an impending head on collision with a motorbike or double-decker tour bus, but it didn’t matter. It’s a drive that is undoubtably one of the top scenic routes in the world but has also been proven to cause panic attacks amongst people. Something about it all seemed like magic to me. It felt rich with culture, like each little piece was a relic of history. I can honestly say it’s unlike any sight I’ve ever seen.

Spending the evening by the water in Positano was quite magical. As twilight approached I walked the shore made up of smooth pebbles as the tide gently rolled in and out. The night air was still and one by one all the lights from the homes and restaurants began to twinkle across the mountains. It was hard not to feel like a princess in my flowing dress as I sauntered down the cobblestone roads. I could now see why novels had been written about such an enchanting place.

September 24, 2014

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