All About The Pretty

Destination Pretty: Elysian Hotel Yoga Retreat With Mandy Ingber

Elysian Hotel in Chicago is hosting Mandy Ingber, celebrity yoga instructor for a weekend yoga retreat.  I will be at Fashion Week, but I'm keeping my eyes out to attend the next one.  I love Chicago and it's the perfect time of year before the brutal cold hits the Windy City. 

The new ultra-luxe hotel is hosting a restorative three-day/two-night Yoga Retreat Weekend, September 10 – 12, 2010. Ingber will teach the same wellness principles and yoga poses that have made her Hollywood classes a sought-after source of inspiration for legions of fans, including well-toned stars such as Jennifer Aniston, Brooke Shields and Helen Hunt.

Ingber will share her motivational approach with aspiring and accomplished yoga practitioners over a relaxing weekend highlighted by three yoga sessions, smoothie breaks and an afternoon spa treatment.

Who:     Celebrity Yoga Instructor Mandy Ingber

What:   Yoga Retreat Weekend at the Elysian hotel

When:  September 10-12, 2011

 

Destination Pretty: Sky Beach Club - Eleuthera, Bahamas

Since I have become engaged lots of people ask me questions about weddings, dresses, and the entire bridal hoopla.  That's fine for other soon-to-be brides but for me it's not my thing. It's about family and close friends.   It is also about the honeymoon.  After three weeks traveling in Africa we have come to the conclusion for a honeymoon the plane ride has to be less than 5 hours and include a beach.  I've been giving the task of finding the honeymoon destination.  I have not made my mind up yet, but here's a top choice - Sky Beach Club in Eleuthera, Bahamas and its peach sand beach.  Eleuthera is part of the Bahamian islands and is away from the main tourist spot of Nassau.  It's situated near Harbour Island a perfect jaunt to visit from Eleuthera.  While l'homme gets his fishing fix satiated, I can lounge around the pool with a stack of magazines and my Kindle. 

 

 

Destination Pretty: Great Yoga Retreats by Taschen

It's no secret my love of all things yoga.  I stalk the Lululemon website almost everyday and there is no way I could ever travel without my TranquiliT clothing.  These clothes go from the yoga mat into my everyday life.  Next year on my list of travel is to attend an international yoga retreat. I have a few instructors that I want to study with on these trips but it's hard to narrow them down.  It's not helping that I just discovered Great Yoga Retreats by Taschen. 

My top choices are Mexico, India, Italy, Indonesia and Thailand.  It's my yoga version of Eat, Pray, Love which I can't wait to see next week.  The past few months have been busy and I need something just for me.  I love my girl getaways, but this about Julia.  The Don and I love to travel together, but we both understand traveling separately for personal growth and exploration.  He knows so much on Egypt that he really should be an Egyptologist.  He plans on going on a study tour of Egypt.  Not for me - just like going on a yoga retreat is so not his thing. 

A few years ago I went to a yoga conference in Florida and had the time of my life. It was fun being amongst all the yogis and to take classes with instructors such as Tias Little, Shiva Rea, and Sean Corn. Now, I'm ready for a relaxing yoga retreat in a fun and exotic locale.  The retreat must have a spa because with so much yoga each day my body has to have time to regroup in the spa and with great food.  

I'm getting excited looking at the resorts, making lists of my top destinations, and the expansion of my yoga practice. 

Question: If you could choose to go anywhere in the world by yourself where would it be. Leave a comment or email me directly.  I'm curious.

Destination Pretty: Flight 001 Everywhere Global Bag

Flight 001 has some of the best travel products in existence.  This Everywhere Global Bag is on the list to be purchased.  I have a similar type bag, but I realize that it's so long for my short frame that walking in an airport with it has become too cumbersome.   

This bag opens into the perfect size tote for my frame and I love how it has different airport codes on the cover.  This is great if you are only bringing a carry-on and need the extra bag to bring the souvenirs from your journey back home. 

I still haven't gathered all my souvenirs from South Africa and Egypt, but that's on the agenda for this weekend along with making a Fall clothing and beauty shopping list. 

Destination Pretty: The Luxury Collection Destination Guides

I love travel guide books that add luxury plus a dash of something extra.  The Luxury Collection Destination Guides are the perfect chic guide for your pocketbook if you are planning later summer and fall travel itineraries.  The collection contains guides on Spain, the U.S., Greece, Argentina, and Italy.  I will forgive them for not including France.  Each guide features a recipe by various chefs including Jose Andres and Mario Batali.  

I know that Italy and Argentina are in my travel destination future and these guides will look adorable in my hand while I'm exploring the destinations. 

Destination Pretty: Claridge's Hotel London

Claridge's Hotel London has a crush on old Hollywood.  In my mind when I look at the spa menu I hear Steve Tyrell singing "I've Got a Crush On You."  Recently I've only made it across the pond to connect at Heathrow Airport, but the next time I pay London a visit I plan to stay at Claridge's.  The Spa has a new Timeless Glamour menu with spa treatments titled with names as Clark Gable, Humphrey Bogart, Vivian Leigh, and Grace Kelly.  If you don't know who they are rent their movies, but my favorite Grace Kelly movies are Rear Window and High Society.  The lady-like clothing are too die for in these movies.  Claridge's Spa uses the decadent La Prairie brand in all their treatments.  Divine. 

A solo journey or a girlfriend getaway could include a stay in a DVF (Diane Von Fursternberg) designed room.  The rooms are so gorgeous how could a girl possible choose. 

 

Om Pretty: Wanderlust Yoga & Music Festival 2010

I'm obsessed with the Wanderlust Yoga & Music Festival although I haven't been.  It's on my list of "yoga things to do."  The dates are right after Africa and Egypt so I can't make it this year.  I keep thinking Lake Tahoe + Music + Yoga = my kind of Om Pretty party.  The festival has a host of teachers that I would love to practice with Duncan Wong, Vinnie Marino, and Elena Brower.  I've practiced with Seane Corn and I never get tired of her classes.  After watching her in this video, I really need to make sure the next time I'm in NY that I attend one of her Anusara classes.  But, I'm definitely planning a yoga girls' getaway to Wanderlust for 2011.  If you think you might be interested, please email me.  I would love to see how my normal beauty/yoga routine works in Squaw Valley. 

Destination Pretty: 2010 World Cup South Africa and Egypt

You might have wondered, "what the hell happened to Julia and All About the Pretty?"  I admit that I have been away and it's not by choice.  It's because the job that pays the beauty bills had me humping in a way that I can only describe as brutal.  The last few months have been crazy with work.  But, the light at the end of the tunnel is finally here.  I'm on a renewal.  A renewed focus to the site and my life in general.  Jaime is still the fabulous intern and I've added Amanda as a New York correspondent.  I live close to New York but not that close. 

A big step in the renewal process is The Don and I are headed to South Africa and Egypt for a three-week vacation/business trip on June 17.  When we first met my bucket list trip included attending the World Cup and going to South Africa.  His bucket list including Egypt. Needless to say after almost a year of planning  - yours truly and l'homme (the man in French) are heading to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup and  then on to Egypt.  I will be writing every few days while I'm there.

In other great news I am a contributor for two online publications.  Southern Flourish is an online publication that focuses on the South.  I have a piece on "green beauty" for the Spring issue and the Summer issue will be arriving in the next few weeks.  Click on the magazine and flip through to get all the Southern goodness and love on your screen. 

I'm a writer for BlackAtlas.com.  BlackAtlas.com is a travel website sponsored by American Airlines and I will be having specific travel articles on their site as well. This is a great opportunity for me to expand my writing to include more travel writing.

It's been a crazy, wonderful, and busy year.  I wouldn't change a thing of how everything has worked out.  Thank you for staying faithful in subscribing to my feed, sending emails and checking on me, and letting me know that this too shall pass. The lesson is always in the journey and what an incredible journey it has been. Thank you for being on this journey with me.  I can't wait to explore Cape Winelands, Cape Town, and Durban South Africa. Then we are headed to Aswan, a luxury cruise down the Nile River, Luxor, and finish our journey in Cairo. 

You can follow on Facebook and Twitter as JuliaConey.   

Pretty in a Carry-On: Josie Maran Mini Argan Stick

I'm headed home to Houston this weekend to watch two of my nieces graduate from high school.  I am so proud of these girls for being dynamic, kind, and smart young ladies.  I am meeting my great-niece Hannah who was born last month and looking forward to giving her lots of kisses from Aunt Ju-Ju.  I'm also excited about is being able to practice my new carry-on skills.  After successfully pulling off my 5-day trip in my carry-on I know I can head from the airport and straight to Chuy's for some Tex-Mex and margaritas.

My new carry-on pick is the Josie Maran Mini Argan Stick.  I've been a fan of all her Argan products and this stick is the perfect size whenever you need a little extra moisture.  It's great for dry patches on elbows, feet, and cuticles.  I can pack it in the side compartments of my suitcase because it's not a liquid. This is perfect for after a dip in the pool or the beach.  Chlorine and beach water can be so drying and this will help bring back luster to the skin. All I need is my cashmere travel blanket and this Argan stick and I'm good to go on the plane.  That and an early morning Bloody Mary. 

Destination Pretty: W Retreat & Spa - Vieques Island, Puerto Rico

On my way back from St. Croix's Food and Wine Experience, I noticed the terminal in San Juan airport for Vieques, Puerto Rico.  I immediately wanted to run and book a flight to stay at the new W Retreat & Spa - Vieques.  In March a few of my yoga instructor friends lead a retreat in Vieques, but I couldn't make it.  This immediate diversion seemed like the best opportunity.  The new W has a daily morning yoga class on the outdoor deck (yoga at the beach is my kind of thing) and tennis courts  (not my kind of thing).  I'm trying to move some dates around to visit this year.  A solo journey sounds divine to me right now.  These are photos from the W's website and they have me drooling with excitement.

I can see myself lounging in the infinity pool already.

Dinner with an ocean view.

The Spa. There are no words but hello lover.

Destination Pretty: Quilted Riviera Mini HD Camcorder

I keep telling myself that I will get better about documenting my life on video.  I can barely remember to carry my camera let alone a video camera, but this Riviera HD Camcorder could be just the thing to change my mind.  If it doesn't there are tons of designs that I could take with me on my getaways this year.

Eat, Pray, Love: Movie Trailer 2010

I remember when I first read it Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. I couldn't get enough. My life was in transition This book has two sides: people who love it (like me) and those who vehemently hate it. I can bring up this book to 10 women and it's always the same response (half love it/half hate it).  Elizabeth has a new book Committed: A Skeptic Makes Peace With Marriage and because I'm a fan of all her work I've plowed through it. I find that it has bits and pieces of Elizabeth's voice that I love reading. At times she can be overly thinking, but she gives a hilarious take on why she didn't want to marry, but eventually couldn't find a good enough reason not to.

I read Pilgrims and Stern Men eons before EPL and her writing makes me happy.  Committed is vastly different, but I appreciate books of all kinds.  Some I get and some I don't, but that won't make me stop reading it.  Elizabeth is hilarious in person.  I highly recommend attending one of her lectures to see her personality come through. 

But when I saw the movie trailer for Eat, Pray, Love it made me want to revisit the book and curl up in its pages.  It makes me want to visit Italy to feast (again), head to India with Kimberly Wilson and Darren Main to pray and practice yoga, and Bali to fall even deeper in love with l'homme.  There is a line in the trailer where Julia Roberts says "I used to have an appetite for my life and now it's gone."  I hope to always have an appetite for my learning full of learning, traveling, feasting, yoga practicing, being kind, and remembering that this is the only life I get. 

I've cleared my calendar for Friday, August 13 so I can take in this movie in all its splendor with the one I love the most - me, myself and I.  I already know the movie will leave out certain parts of the book, but this traveler can't wait to see all the gorgeous locations where they shot the movie. 

Have a beautiful yoga filled weekend.  I'm attending a Yoga and Wine Workshop and can't wait to tell ya'll how it went.   

Destination Pretty: Miami - A Perfect Winter Escape at The Ritz Carlton South Beach

I don't think I have ever been this excited to finally enter the month of March.  It's been a long, hard winter in so many ways.  The Washington, DC area has seen so much snow this winter, that I thought "why did I want to live in a place with four seasons?"  Next winter I plan to spend with mom in Louisiana. It may get cold, but I can handle the one inch of snow that it may receive.  The only way I could take it was to head south for the winter.  I needed to relax, enjoy my new hair cut, and kick back.  
 
To me, that means Miami.  Miami?  Yes, I see the questions rolling in, but for me Miami is a place to relax.  It's a perfect retreat for couples, as well as, a Girls Getaway which we are finalizing this month.  My Miami equals no clubs, no late nights, amazing food, warm weather, and a perfect place to relax.  I knew I wanted to stay near Lincoln Road, and away from Ocean Drive on this trip, and there was only one conclusion - The Ritz Carlton, South Beach.  
 
The Ritz Carlton is situated in the heart of South Beach with ocean and pool views that had me immediately packing away my North Face jacket and donning the perfect pink strapless dress and sandals as soon as I entered my room. 

 

The hotel is known for its customer service, which is not always the best in Miami, and took great care of us as we thawed out.  I am a traveler who loves to do my travel homework, but I also know when I need to step back and let the hotel guide me.  I take joy in a superb hotel concierge who can tell me the quickest and delicious place for my sushi craving - Sushi Samba and the best place for a romantic date night, but it must be Latin - Ola.  The hotel is also the host of the South Beach Food & Wine Festival's Burger Bash which is on my list of food events to attend next year.
 
What would Miami be without shopping?  Browne's Apothecary is my spot for yoga and beauty.  The hotel was so close that I didn't have to make a mad dash to class.  I want to visit their Design District location on my next visit.  Next, it was hitting perusing Collins where some of Miami's best shopping can be found.  I needed to fuel myself for the long day, and Cardoza Restaurant is my favorite spot for breakfast.  It's on Ocean Drive, and it's a great place to people watch and relax before a busy day enjoying Miami.  
 
Dinner in Miami is always an event, especially when it's Prime One Twelve.  This restaurant is one of Miami's popular celebrity spots, and I can see why.  The ambiance is perfect, just the precise amount of light, the view of the kitchen, and the best truffle lobster mac and cheese I have had in my life.  It was so succulent and savory that it even tasted divine at room temperature.  But, be warned.  Prime is for those who love food.  The portions are enormous and meant to be shared.  You must be careful, and not lose your appetite on the appetizers alone. 
 
Another must feast experience is Fratelli Lyon located in the Design District.  I ate here with one of my friend Rebecca who recommended the restaurant. Miami's Design District is a new restaurant hot spots with numerous choices.  It was here that my friend Rebecca and I had a salad so memorable that I have tried to replicate it numerous times since.  The insalata con lattuga e gorgonzola (Bibb Letture, Gorgonzola Vinaigrette, Pine Nuts, Crispy Speck) is THE best salad I have ever had.  It is a perfect simple, elegant, and decadent dish. The tagliatelle alla bolognese was great too, but seriously this salad.  There are no words.  
 
As our last few days dwindled down I wanted to be near the hotel to enjoy in some spa treatments (the rain drop therapy was so relaxing that I had to be shaken to wake up).   Rain Drop Therapy treatment consists of essentials oil dropped like rain along the muscle tissue and spine and then compressed for greater absorption into the body.  Eleven different essential oils turned my tight, tense, and under loved body into a fully relaxed and zen-loving being.  After the spa it was time to embrace the pool.  I wish all hotels heated their pools.  It enhances any pool time especially since I was sipping a frozen mojito. Sublime.  
 

The extended weekend came to wonderful flourish with dinner at Bistro One LR, and lunch at DiLido Beach Club Restaurant where the hottie Jeff McInnis from Season 5 of "Top Chef" creates unique Mediterranean influenced dishes.  Yes, he is really that cute in person. 

 
   

As we left Miami, I made a promise to myself to return again this year.  I already know where I will be staying.  

Destination Pretty: Elemis' Rose & Lavender Recovery Regime Set

Elemis' Rose & Lavender Recover Regime Set is exactly what the luxe jet-set traveler needs.  I'm looking for another place to venture off that's warm and welcoming so I can leave the 24 inches of snow around my house.  This is a perfect kit for day and night use.  I'm thinking of booking a last minute trip to Mardi Gras to celebrate with the rest of my "Who Dat!" nation.  I'm in need of a muffuletta sandwich, Cafe du Monde beignets, Abita beer, and some good Louisiana seafood.  If I do go to Nawlins I'm going to need all the recovery I can get and will rely on Elemis to help a girl out. 

Destination Pretty: 3floz.com for the Well Groomed Traveler

The answers to many travelers prayers have been answered.  Introducing 3floz.com which launches tomorrow.  Kate Duff and Alexi Mintz came up with the idea to create a website for travel junkies who are equally obsessed with beauty.  The site will carry mass brands as well as luxe brands such as Ted Gibson, Anthony for Men, Ahava, Weleda, Malin + Goetz, Go Smile, Sprayology, Buddha Nose, Yes to Carrots and many more. The catch? All the products are the perfect size for TSA approved carry-on bags. 

Kate and Alexi said the site is "for those who travel a lot and aren’t willing to sacrifice their beauty routine or deal with checking a bag. It’s for those who go straight from work to their yoga studio/gym and would rather carry smaller products. It’s for urban travelers who carry our lives in their (heavy) purses and need to lose some weight, and for those who simply love trying new products but don’t like buying full-size versions for fear of wasting both product and money if they end up not liking it." 

I'm so excited to make a purchase tomorrow on this site.  I have some trips planned in the next few weeks I need to stock up.  These are definitely my kind of girls. 

Destination Pretty: Erno Laszlo Body Care Travel Set

I'm back from a quick jaunt to South Beach to thaw out and to connect with friends.  What I've learned from going to be the beach is that I have to prepare my skin to come back home.  I try to perform a quick exfoliation to slough off my sun-soaked skin.  I wear sunscreen like it's going out of style, but after walking on the sand, frolicking in the ocean, and late night walks on the beach - my skin can look dull.  I took this Erno Laszlo Body Care Set with me and prepped my skin for returning home to this cold weather.  I will try a few more of the Laszlo travel products on my trips this year. 

Destination Pretty: Prada Flip Flops with Matching Travel Case

Well, well, well.  Leave it to Prada to take my resort and summer flip flop to an entirely new level.  These Prada Flip Flops come with their own travel case.  How cute are these?  They come in three colors - black, pink, and gold, but for some reason these glossy black flip flops are calling my name.  I'm headed to South Beach later this month and these just might be coming with me.  After walking and dancing in my "limo" shoes (shoes that are cute, high heeled, and only meant to be worn sitting down) my feet my need these after a late night. 

Destination Pretty: Via Yoga Retreats

Many of you know that I'm a huge yogini.  The more I practice my yoga the better I am as a person.  It makes me feel invigorated.  If I'm having a bad day - I want more yoga.  If I'm having a good day - I want more yoga.  Yoga is truly a part of my life.  I have been to yoga workshops and conferences, but the thought of going to a yoga retreat in 2010 is at the forefront of my mind. 

One place that is calling my name and maybe in the next few months my credit card is Via Yoga.  The yoga retreats can also include surfing and this beach bunny is always looking for a new adventure and the thought of learning how to surf is one of those things that need to be crossed off the bucket list. Via Yoga retreats are located in Sayulita, Mexico.  I have a yoga teacher friend that I attend conferences with and I'm hoping I can get Ms. Niya to head to Via with me.  You my dear readers will definitely be the first to know - after my travel agent. 

I'm visualizing myself in the midst of this pose.

Destination Pretty: Anakiri Hydrating Jet Set Kit

Anakiri BioEnergetic Skin Care first came on my radar when I stayed at the Boar's Head Inn in Charlottesville, Virginia during an exploration of the Charlottesville Wine Region.  The Boar's Head Inn is a breathtakingly beautiful hotel and the surroundings are nothing short of majestic.  I am a true spa girl and can never get enough of massages and I become instantly hooked on Anakiri's oil blends when I had my massage.

I have been known to bring Anakiri's Calming Oil with me to most of my massages because I love how the scent can immediately calm me down.  Now, I'm going to try their Hydrating Jet Set Kit when I make a quick trip home to Houston next month.  Because I can't leave home without it, the calming oil is coming with me as well.

Destination Pretty: Tribeca Grand Hotel New York

I usually stay near Times Square when visiting New York, but this past weekend I had the pleasure of staying at the Tribeca Grand Hotel which was very close to a wedding reception that beau and I were attending.  I keep asking myself why I haven't explored this area before?  Usually I'm in New York for Fashion Week and need to be closed to the tents.  Plus, with all the Fashion Week late nights I need to be as close to the fashion events as possible. 

The next time I explore New York as a girl that loves the city  staying at the Tribeca Grand will be top on my list.  The hotel is hip, a place to hang out ,and party with a live DJ on Saturday nights.  But the pure genius is the hotel's white noise cancellation system which is pretty sweet. Yes, the hotel has a function in each room where you turn up the white noise and it drowns out the music.  Another perk is not having to call room service or run down to the restaurant just to grab a cup of coffee.  Each floor is equipped with a small coffee machine that delivers a cup of caffeine for that much needed post-partying jolt. 

The hotel amenities are what makes this beauty junkie even more happy.  (Malin + Goetz) are one of my favorite product lines which made it easier for me to not have to pack shampoo and conditioner.  I'm one of those people that love heavy shower pressure. It's the little things that makes me happy and this is one of the them.  I've found that some NY hotels water pressure is so low that it takes awhile just to wash the conditioner out of your hair.  Not at this hotel. This was a good thing since we had a few too many libations during lunch and I did not have extra time to prepare for the wedding celebration.

We didn't make the hotel's signature brunch in the Church Lounge or the Sunday film screening in the theater, but next time we will.  Film screening? This is the neighborhood of The Tribeca Film Festival.  I'm already looking at dates to get my Tribeca fix on again.  But this time I visit I plan to be a "Grand Guest" which is a faithful Tribeca Grand Hotel guest.  Hopefully we can make a quick "empire state of mind" getaway before the year is up.

Destination Pretty: Lululemon Anytime Gym Bag

I am forever on the hunt for the perfect carry-on.  I have come to realize that certain bags work with a two-day getaway and others work with a 3-4 day getaway.  This Lululemon Anytime Gym Bag is the size that can work on a 3-4 getaway.  It is technical a gym bag, but for me it's so huge that I think it is better for traveling.  It can hold your kindle, a small lunch (I never eat on planes), a quart size bag full of beauty goodies, and so much more. 

I will be traveling this fall and winter to destinations equally as cold, but also warmer climates to feel my toes between the sand.  With this bag I can add flip-flops and a swimsuit and be beach ready as soon as I land.  If only the warmer weather was this month. 

I have always been a fan of Lululemon bags because they do last just like their clothing.  That's an entirely other post.  

Destination: SAMPAR Skin Care Good Weekend Kit

I'm headed to New York for the weekend and once again it's time to pack up and look at what products I need to maintain my skin.  No matter how much I travel I love testing new products.  It's too bad that I won't have this SAMPAR Skin Care Good Weekend Kit to assist me along my travels.  The kit contains the Velvet Cleansing Milk, Skin Quenching Mist, Equalizing Foam Peel, Ultra Hydrating Fluid, and Nocturnal Lifting Mask. 

The great thing about this vials is that you flip the top over and it becomes a stopper so the product doesn't spill out.  Too many times I have had to squeeze packets and pray that I find a paper clip to bind them so air doesn't ruin what's inside.  It won't happen with these.  I might not have them for New York, but I have more trips in my future and it will find it's way into my bag. 

Destination Pretty: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

I want to get away, I want to fly away! Yeah! Yeah!

The words to Lenny Kravitz's famous song filled my head a few weeks ago, but I knew I didn't want to get on another plane or train so the automobile was what I had in mind.  I headed to a relaxing and deserved stay at The Gaylord National Harbor only 25 minutes from my home.  I had been to the National Harbor numerous times to eat, shop, and enjoy their free summer concerts, but this time I wanted to enjoy the hotel and spa. "The Don" and I packed our weekend bags and headed to The Gaylord.

The Gaylord is a massive resort and convention center. I know there were at least 2 conventions at the property during our stay.  The hotel features numerous restaurants and the area surrounding the Gaylord has shops, restaurants, and a perfect view of the harbor.

The hotel visit cannot happen without a visit to the spa.  The Relache Spa at the hotel is in one word - DIVINE.  The contrast of black and white has a softness that I normally don't equate to a spa.  The spa has an in-store boutique with brands such Kerastase, Spa Ritual, Pure Fiji, Cynthia's Bath & Body, Osea, and many others. 

I had such a relaxing spa experience that when it came time to leave I didn't want to go. I spent time in the relaxation room which featured a wonderful view of the harbor.  Anytime I am near water I am immediately relaxed. 

We decided to head out the hotel and it near the resort instead of the hotel.  The next time I will make sure I eat at Old Hickory Steakhouse.  We decided upon Ketchup. Thank goodness we had a reservation because the place was packed.  The wine list had great selections with a decent markup, but the the sides on our entrees were lukewarm, and could have used a good zap in the microwave.  The only saving grace was the crab and corn chowder which was out of this world good.  The deserts were great as well and we left full and happy.  The perfect way to end the night was to dance at Posh.  Yes, ladies the hotel is large enough to have its own club on the 18th floor with views of the harbor.  After a few twirls on the dance floor I was spent and retreated to the room where I fell into a deep sleep. 

Before we left we had a wonderful breakfast at Pienza Italian Market.  At breakfast it hit me why I loved this hotel.  I'm a cruise girl and this hotel on land has all the options that you find on a cruise ship.  You don't need to leave the resort for entertainment. 

I'm planning a girls' weekend there next spring and can't wait for my girls to enjoy the resort as much as I do.  I also made a promise to myself that next time I won't forget my swimsuit. 

Destination Pretty: eat.shop.guides

I stumbled upon the eat.shop.guides in my local Anthropologie store and I was immediately hooked.  I loved the way the pocket size guides fit into my tote bag and I can't wait to explore my local D.C. this fall.  The DC guide features places in Maryland and Virginia so shopping and eating in the D/M/V can help tourists and residents craft their own itinerary to explore the nation's capital. 

I'm hoping that the updated Paris version is ready before I head to Paris in November.  Although I have my own notebook of certain Paris jaunts it's great to have help.  I have my picks for the best tea (Mariage Freres) and the best condiments from La Grande Epicerie.   

If the writers of the guides need a list for Houston, I'm ready to show you "my Texas. I hope ya'll ready."

Destination Pretty: Capella Ixtapa Resort and Spa

Capella Ixtapa Resort and Spa is on my Destination Pretty wish list.  I haven't decided where I want to spend my birthday and this resort and spa has moved up on the Bonne Anniversaire destination list.  Capella is located in Ixtapa near the town of Zihuatanejo near the Pacific Ocean. 

I'm very happy that Hurricana Jimena bypassed this area. Mexico has already been hit hard with tourism and it is our duty as travelers to make sure we help this country get back on their feet. 

The resort has only 59 suites with makes the resort small, intimate, and relaxing.  This might be just the place I need to escape the winter and pretty for the next great year.  The spa has over 6,000 feet of relaxation goodness and has my name written all over it.  I learned last year that I need to fly south every winter and rejuvenate.  Maybe the Capella Ixtapa will be my place of transformation. 

Destination Pretty: Eve Lom Travel Set

Eve Lom Skin Care has been a cult skin care brand for years.  I remember reading somewhere that Naomi Campbell uses the line. Her behavior may not be the best, but her skin is crazy flawless.  I wonder if she uses the Eve Lom Travel Set when she's jet setting around the world. 

The set includes all of Eve's goodies - muslin cloth, cleanser, moisturizer, mask, TLC cream, and a hand cream.  I'm looking forward to using the collection during Fashion Week.  It's enough product to keep my skin looking great, although I may feel like an exhausted beauty writer. 

A great thing about this travel set is that when it's time for a refill all you have to do is order one and all the products your skin has become addicted to are there.  

Destination Pretty: In the Spirit of Capri by Pamela Fiori

A few years ago some friends and I rented a villa in Positano, Italy.  The Amalfi Coast of Italy is breathtakingly beautiful and it only takes one visit to be enamored with it for the rest of your life.  Until I get back to there I will get my fix with Pamela Fiori's In the Spirit of Capri.  I'm looking forward to curling up with this book on a cold day and dreaming of the warm Mediterranean waters.

On a day trip from Positano we took a ferry to Capri and I was then able to understand what Capri was all about.  Capri is known for it's shops, but it's the view that stay in your mind.  After taking a ride up to Anacapri  for shopping, touring, and eating I stumbled upon the Carrthesia Perfume Boutique.  I knew that I will forever hold Capri as a special place in my heart. 

I'm heading to Capri next year again and I can't wait to experience it all over again while making more time for sipping Limoncello.

Ciao Bella.

Destination Pretty: Virginia 40% Off Travel Deals

If you are in need of a last minute summer getaway or planning a fall getaway - there is no better time to take advantage of Virginia's 40% Off Travel Deals.  Maybe you are looking for a new wine country? Virginia has great wines from amazing vineyards.  I guarantee if you give Virginia wines a try you will not be disappointed. 

I'm interested in a Labor Day weekend getaway in Richmond staying at The Jefferson Hotel which is participating in the 40% off deal.  The hotel's lobby is gorgeous and it is calling my name for the weekend.  Richmond is only a short drive from DC and it will be a perfect time to escape with a stack of Fall magazines, yoga, relax before New York Fashion Week, and create a fun itinerary for Paris in October.  The Salon at the Jefferson has a new Energy Balancing treatment to keep me refreshed and rejuvenated.  I can't think of a better way to prepare for fall without having to hop on a plane. 

Destination Pretty: Westin Annapolis, Maryland

The one thing I love about living in the DC area is being so close to quick getaways in Virginia and Maryland.  Despite the rain we've had a great not-to-hot-summer in the area and I'm looking forward to a beautiful fall.  Annapolis, Maryland may be known for the Naval Academy, but it's so much more.  Annapolis has a beautiful waterfront, great dining, and absolutely adorable boutiques.  I'm looking forward to staying at the new Westin Annapolis hotel in early fall.

The new hotel, part of the Starwood Properties is centrally located near all the dining and shopping for a relaxing weekend away.  The hotel has a spa by Aveda called Varuna which I plan to relax and regroup after the craziness that is New York Fashion Week.  I plan to also enjoy a nice relaxing dinner at the hotel's Azure Restaurant, but if you prefer steak the hotel also has a Morton's Restaurant located inside as well.  Annapolis is only a 45 minute drive from me and this is the perfect getaway. 

My weekend in Annapolis will begin on September 23rd with a Wine and Oyster Pairing Dinner hosted by Laurie Forster - The Wine Coach and author of The Sipping Point at the Westin.  I love wine and food,.  Enjoying life is all a part of my philosophy that beauty is a lifestyle.  The hotel is giving a crazy rate for the night of the dinner.  It's $149.75 per person and includes a room based on double occupancy, recipe card, and signed copy of The Sipping Point along with the five-course Oyster Dinner and wine pairings.  The details aren't up on the hotel's website yet, but it's listed on Laurie's which I listed above. 

This is a great way to prepare yourself for a fabulous fall.  If you are local and come to the event, please let me know so we can meet.  I will be the one with the wine notebook taking notes.   

Destination Pretty: Rosewood Little Dix Bay Virgin Gorda, BVI Has Put a Spell on Me

I am always thinking of the next place to add to my list of travels.  I want to go somewhere warm for my birthday, but I can't decide on one single place yet.  I'm writing about properties that are calling my name "Julia, over here. Let's hang out."  Little Dix Bay has put a spell on me.  Last night I even had a dream that I was toasting my Bonne Anniversaire here by the pool.  I'm going to be perusing more BVI hotels in the next few weeks.

 

Pool

 

 

Spa Pool

 

 

Junior Suite

 

 

 

Until I get to BVI, Nina's voice can still put a spell on me.