All posts by Stefanie

Travel Tip: How to Backpack in Style

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Before the craze of “Glamping” (also known as glamorous camping for those not pop culture savvy) there was genuine roughing-it backpacking. Since the month of October will be all about Argentina and exploring the region of Patagonia, we decided we would go back to our good ol’ fashioned camping roots, and by roots we mean luxury backpacking, because we know people today couldn’t go without their espressos, warm baths and smart-phones for more than 24-hours!

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Luxury backpackers, also known as flash packers, love enjoying the outdoors without having to sacrifice any of the luxury amenities they would find in a hotel. We paired up with The North Face to bring you the most stylish and practical of backpacking gear, with some extravagance thrown into the mix! This week we are putting together some of our favorite items and gadgets for the every day flash packer.

Here’s what you would need to survive Patagonia in style:

 

Z.A.P.S. Survival Grenade:

 

While Backpacking is fun and exciting, things can go awry which is why it is necessary to have a back-up plan. The grenade was created by Marines for the every day explorer. It comes with 45-feet of paracord, a compass, a wire saw, three wire snares, a fire starter, three pieces of tinder, 30 feet of fishing line, three fish hooks, six sinkers, two barrel swivels, a knife blade, three stormproof matches with striker, a large needle, 20 feet of black thread, and six water purification tablets, among other things. Tiny and Extensive!

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Lush Karma Komba Solid Shampoo Bar:

 

One of the essential things to remember when backpacking it to keep it light. Instead of those clunky shampoo bottles, opt for the Lush’s Solid Shampoo Bar, it smells delectable. How does it work? Wet the top, scrub it again your hair to crate foam and wash it out with water.

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Jiva Coffee Cubes:

 

Get instant on-the-go Colombian Coffee no matter where you are. A great alternative to that middle-of-nowhere McDonald’s. It is easy to use, you just add a cube to hot water and let it dissolve. The taste is so delicious you will think you are in your favorite coffee shop.

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Biolite KettlePot:

 

To cook food in a way that wont kill your back, the kettle is tiny and will fit in your backpack. It is perfect for heating water, cooking yummy soups and chili’s and charging your phone all at the same time. Or you can attach the Biolite Portable Grill and have a two-in-one kitchen set.

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LifeStraw:

 

If you’ve ever watched Bear Grylls, you would know the most important thing when being away from civilization is fresh drinking water! is To purify your water without having to heat it up, LifeStraw is about the size of a pen and allows you to drink straight from a river, stream or even a dirty puddle of water.

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North Face Thermoball Hoodie

 
start with the practical, The North Face’s Thermoball Hoodie is super-warm and lightweight. It even folds up into a convenient little ball! Pair it with some text-able North Face gloves and a classic black jacket, and you’ll be on your way in style.

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Ray-Ban Outdoorsmen Aviators

 
To look super cool and protect your eyes from the glaring Patagonian ice, check out the vintage Ray Ban Glacier Cats Sunglasses, they’ll have you feeling like a mountaineer in no time.

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Cabela’s “Perfekt™” 7″ Hikers by Meindl:

 

Next, gear up those feet with Cabela’s perfekt hiking shoes. When German master boot maker Alfons Meindl mastered these boots, which in fact they are built so well, they’re recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association, not many boots can say that!

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Garmin Forerunner Watch

 
This watch is designed to track your elevation, distance, and location. It can pair up with your smartphone to show you the day’s trek and has GPS and can also wirelessly connect to heart rate monitors.

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iPad mini: 

 

Download some books or movies for the solo nights ahead! If you haven’t read Into the Wild or Wild, both are perfect books for backpackers!

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The North Face Surge Backpack

How will you ever keep all your gadgets charged without any outlet plugs in the wild? The  waterproof backpack comes equipped with a charger that lasts several days and comes with a USB port!

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Nomad Collapsible Hot Tub:

 

And last, but definitely not least, the hot tub, which can be filled in under 10 minutes, heated instantly with its and weighs just 20 pounds (for you strong men out there). Because, why not?

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BlazingBlock: Making a fire out in the wild is often times challenging, however BlazingBlock just made our lives easier, much easier. Made in the USA from Southern Yellow Pine, this portable fire lights with just a single stick of Fatwood, which you light and place in the chimney hole. The result is up to three hours of a warm, relaxing fire, making it ideal for camping.

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The Peninsula. Paris, France

Hotel of the Week, , ,

The first word that comes to mind when I think of The Peninsula Paris would be grandeur. This Peninsula Paris is located in a late 19th century Haussmanian building, which first opened in 1908. The hotel closed for restoration (costing almost 1 billion dollars gasp!!!!) and re-opened in August 2014, nearly 6 years in the making. The heart of the hotel is in their stunning lobby. Adorned with curved ceiling, glistening chandeliers, marble floors, and contemporary furnishings, the grand entrance welcomes guests with a feeling of awe. An installation called “Dancing Leaves”, located in the lobby, is made of 800 hand-blown crystal leaves, but that is not the most impressive thing. In fact, 20,000 pieces of gold leaf have been applied throughout the public areas of the hotel, making the hotel to actually seem shimmering.

The rooms are inspired by Parisian architecture and fashion. Covered in soft tones of grey and cream, they are equally timeless and modern. Each room comes with the traditional Peninsula functionality, equipped with the latest tech gadgets, perfect for the modern luxury traveler. All the lights and switched are controlled with an iPad, which some find confusing and others love. The Premier Suite is amazing, best views in the house! The 1,075 square foot room has views of Avenue Kleber and the Eiffel Tower. In the mood for some oysters and champagne in the City of Love? Order it without ever having to leave your bubble bath for two from the interactive digital control tablet.

L’Oiseau Blanc, The hotel’s sixth floor restaurant, serves up no only stunning French cuisine, but also some of Paris’ most stunning views. Lili is the hotel’s Cantonese restaurant. The interior is modeled after the drama of a Chinese and French opera. Sit at the chef’s table and order the dim sum! If you’re just looking for a drink and a smoke, head to Lounge Kleber, a discreet lounge perfect for a cigar and a dirty martini.

The Peninsula Paris Spa is over 1,800 square meters of pure luxury. The menu of Oriental, Holistic, and European-inspired treatments would satisfy even the weariest of travelers. The Peninsula Paris is the hotel of the future in the way they combine the traditional with the futuristic. Classic glamour is seen in every detail of the hotel while their policy on the latest up-to-date technology is very apparent. This hotel is sure to find itself becoming a landmark of Paris like the monuments it surrounds.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

City Guide: 72 Hours in Paris

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What is there to say about Paris that hasn’t already been said: The City of Love, La Ville-Lumière (City of Light), Couture Fashion Capital, and the epicenter of the Age of Enlightenment. Paris has been a muse to countless painters, writers, and poets extraordinaire. Always at the forefront of fashion and art, Paris is one of my all-time favorite cities.

I’ve compiled the newest and trendiest places to eat, sleep, and shop, with a few classics thrown into the mix. Enjoy my francophile Posh readers!

 

Thursday:

 

1:00 pm- Check-in to the best new hotel in Paris, The Peninsula Hotel. This hotel has the perfect location; it is steps away from the Champs-Elysées ant the Arc de Triomphe. This hotel was once a historic building, now mixed with contemporary furniture and deco art pieces.

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For another luxurious option, stay at The Shangri-La Paris. Dust yourself off at Le Bar with their signature cocktail, The Pink Lady.

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6:00pm-  Schedule a private tour of the Louvre at night with french wine tasting at the end.

8:30 pm- Head to Septime for a proper dinner. The food is superb and inventive, anyone who has ever been there only has rave reviews for this classy restaurant.

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11:00 pm- Le Silencio is the place to see top dogs in the Fashion and Film industries during Paris Fashion Week. This exclusive nightclub/concert venue/bar is a sure thing for a good night out.

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Friday:

 

10:00 am- If you wake up in time, head to Roland Mouret’s fashion Show. After, start your day wit some fresh fare at Café de Flore, the PFW staple.

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My other favorite that should not be missed is Cafe Angeline. Since it’s opening in 1903, Angelina became the place where the Parisian aristocracy hung out. Proust and Coco Chanel rubbed shoulders with the biggest names in fashion in Angelina’s salons.

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12:00 pm- It’s time to shop. If you like concept stores there is no place better that Le Royal Éclaireur. It is located on the ground floor of the Hotel Royal Monceau and carries a wide selection of men and women’s accessories.

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If you want something more personalized, Les Suites has stylists on hand to assist you with any request and have collection from designers such as Elie Saab and Giambattista Valli Haute Couture.

 

2:00 pm- Head to Bread & Roses, one of the only places in Paris that has homemade iced tea with a smorgasbord of pretty desserts.

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4:30 pm- Check out the newest exhibit at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. They have a French lacquer and Chinese object exhibition all through 2014.

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9:30 pm- Caviar Kaspia is the best late-night dinner spot. Lots of caviar and vodka- you cant go wrong!

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12:00 am- Le Montana is the Parisian version of Studio 54. It is the most exclusive club in the city.

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Saturday:

 

10:00 am- Le Café Marly is a classic; located in the center of Paris this is a great place to take a break between shows. Sit on the sunny terrace and have a café au lait.

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2:00 pm- Dine at Ralph’s, the restaurant is located in the beautiful Ralph Lauren mansion in Saint-Germain. This is the perfect place for lunch when you need a break from fine French dining and have a craving for classic American fare.

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4:30pm- Attend a Fashion Show: Vivienne Westwood, one of my favorite designers will be showcasing her new looks at 4:30pm sharp!

8:30PM- For your last night, dine like a celebrity at La Société, another success by the Costes Brothers. This restaurant is located in the heart of St. Germain des Prés in a glamorous setting designed by Christian Liaigre and serves renowned fare such as their Spicy Seabass Tartar or a fabulous club sandwich.

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Or dine at Carette, the Hubert de Givenchy bistro known for its world-famous chocolate éclairs.

11:00PM- For another late night out (Paris is not called the City that Sleeps people!!), have drinks with friends Raspoutine. This place used to be a former bordello that later became a well-known cabaret club and now a hotspot for models, billionaires and fashion society. 

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Sunday: 

 

11:00 am- Brunch at Rose Bakery. Their quiche Lorraine is trés fantastique!

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2:00pm- The flea market les Puces de Saint-Ouen is the best place to find hidden gems such as vintage furniture, clothes, or vinyl.

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4:00 pm- One last fashion show: Chloé is a girly girl’s dream designer. Don’t miss her show!

 

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Armani Hotel. Milan, Italy

Hotel of the Week, , ,

 

The Armani Hotel in Milan is a true fashion-lover’s dream. Created by Giorgio Armani himself, his aesthetic and personal style is embodied in every aspect of the hotel. Located just around the corner from the luxury shopping streets of Via Montenapoleone, this is the perfect spot for those wishing to stay in the middle of all the action during Fashion Week.

The hotel is designed to be a “home-away-from-home” which is in line with the Armani philosophy. From the moment of booking to the time of arrival, your lifestyle manager is there to ensure that all your requirements are anticipated discreetly. From customized spa treatments to personal shoppers, your lifestyle manager almost seems like your invisible fairy godmother.

The 95 guestrooms of this spectacular hotel are both sensual and simple, and to stay in a room personally designed by Giorgio Armani is a gift within itself. Our favorite room in the house is the Armani Signature Suite. Not only does the grand winding staircase make you feel as if you’re in an actual home, the suite comes will a full-service bar, private gym, cinema, and spacious living room. So actually, we take it back, this may be better than your own home! Each room also comes with Armani amenities; sigh, if only it came with Armani clothing.

On the top floor of the exquisite Armani Hotel, is the 1,000 square meter Armani/Spa. A relaxed, quiet, and calm space, this wellness spa overlooks the Duomo Cathedral, The spa features many different treatments and a magnificent relaxation pool with a glass roof and walls. The spa comes with 3 different types of therapies: MU (for stillness), Libertà (for freedom), or Fluidità (for fluidity). My personal favorite is the Fluidità massage for energizing and travel recovery; I’m always looking for ways to battle the jetlag!

On the 7th floor you will find the Armani/Ristorante and the Armani/Bamboo Bar. The Armani/Ristorante has simply divine food and features a unique Enoteca with an impeccable selection of wines. Opt for the Chef’s table and tasting menu, whatever he cooks up will make your taste buds smile. The Armani/Bamboo has such fantastic cocktails; it may just make you want to dance your way over to Armani/Privè, the nightclub by Armani. Whatever your reason for traveling to Milan, this is definitely the place you should stay.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

City Guide: 72 Hours in Milan

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Milan, once know as the fashion capital of the world, is a place where fashion, design, art, and food come together to make this city vibrant. Milan Fashion Week is at the epicenter of this grand city’s creativity. Some of the largest fashion house (Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, Pucci, to name a few) flock to this beautiful city.

We gathered our favorite shopping places (because who can go to Milan and NOT shop?!), restaurants, and vibrant nightlife scenes. If we were in Milan right now, this is what we would be doing!

 

Thursday:

 

12:00 pm- Check-in to our favorite hotel in Milan, The Armani Hotel. This hotel is a fashion lover’s and designer’s dream. Giorgio Armani personally designed the sleek interior with his aesthetic and passion for design is seen throughout the hotel. Don’t forget to check out the Armani Spa, it’s divine!

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For another luxurious option, The Bulgari Hotel is fantastic. You can’t go wrong with either of these two options.

4:00 pm- There is nothing I like better than being a little pampered after a long-haul flight. Check out the Davide Diodovich salon, he is a wizard with the scissors and could transform even the dullest mane into something gorgeous.

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8:30 pm– Giacomo is Milan’s IT restaurant, don’t be surprised to rub shoulders with Orlando Bloom or Giorgio Armani. The cuisine is wonderful and simple Italian with a seafood accent.

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11:00 pm- Feel like dancing? Head to megaclub Plastic, popular with Milan’s young trendsetters and fashionistas. But don’t be surprised to see some crazy Fashion Week after-parties here.

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Friday:

 

10 am- Stop for a creamy cappuccino at Bastianello. Their pastries are also divine.

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12:00 pm- You’re in the fashion capital of Italy, it’s time to shop. Head to Cavalli & Nastri. This vintage shop has the cutest designer duds around.

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Or try Wait and See, this chic store is filled with quirky fashion and accessories.

2:00 pm- Health nuts will love the farm-to-table restaurant Erba Brusca. They grow their own herbs and vegetables, but try the gnocchi with cherry tomatoes; it doesn’t get better than that!

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4:30 pm- Walk around Brera, the bohemian district, it’s one of my favorite areas in the city!

9:00 pm- Dinner at Clandestino Milano Restaurant. Situated at Maison Moschino, this restaurant serves ‘playful’ Italian cuisine. Sample their “Flower Child Sushi”, a sushi roll that uses Burrata cheese and olive oil instead of wasabi or seaweed.

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11:00 pm- Byblos Milano is a completely new structure in entertainment. It combines art, fashion, design, and music into one fascinating club. A series of levels blend into a glass dance floor suspended over the water.

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Saturday:

 

10:00 am- Start your day at Fioraio Bianchi Milano. This restaurant has been around for 40 years in the downtown Brera district. Today Fioraio Bianchi remains a timeless place, a reinvented flower shop where the scent of fresh flowers mingle with aromas from the kitchen.

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2:00 pm- Walk around 10 Corso Como, the high-end shopping district in the city. There are plenty of things to do besides shopping if you’re all shopped-out. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and the stunning plaza center.

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5:00pm- Attend a fashion show. Bottega Veneta, Girogio Armani, Roberto Cavalli, and Emilio Pucci will all be showcasing their designs for Spring 2015 on this day.

7:30PM- Early dinner at Al Peck, which includes a chic bar and a luxury first-floor deli packed with every type of cheese, salami and indulgent Italian essential imaginable. Al peck specializes in handmade fresh pasta, grilled meat and fish dishes. Try to coal-grilled tender meats and crispy potatoes.

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11:00PM- Club 1930 is so exclusive you won’t even find it on any search website. It is a club of another era, inspired by the prohibitionist era and as such it remains hidden and secret. But if you have received an invitation, go to the shop and use the door at the back, the wonderful club that is located in the back of the shop.

 

Sunday: 

 

11:00 am- Brunch at Dulcis in fundo. American brunch places have been popping up all over Milan recently but this place is one of the best. Only on Sunday, this brunch is set in a lovely space and features American brunch with scrambled eggs and cheesecake, but also pancakes and handmade marmalades. Make sure to book!

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2:00pm- If you have time left, check out Dolce & Gabbana’s show at 2pm. You won’t want to miss it!

4:00 pm- Book yourself a massage at The Armani Spa before you’re on your way to gay ol’ Paris!

 

 

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The Connaught Hotel. London, UK

Hotel of the Week, , ,

From the moment you arrive to The Connaught Hotel in London, the staff sweeps you off your feet and into a chair by the fireplace with a cup of tea. As soon as you enter the lobby you feel as if you’ve been transported to a grandeur and more modern version of Downtown Abbey. The glam of the 1920’s London is still very apparent in the overall theme of the hotel. Each room at The Connaught is fit for a prince or princess, but the Signature Suites are le crème de la crème!

If you have the resources (cough cough enough money), the best suite in the hotel (and maybe London) is The Apartment. Through two giant blue wooden doors is this 3,068 sq. ft haven. The suite comes complete with two bedrooms, adorned with four-poster king beds, vaulted ceilings, and a 24-hour butler. The suite also comes with a living room + fireplace, dining room for up to 8 guests, and large wrap around balcony with the best views in London. If you are a local, don’t worry, you can rent it out for a birthday party, cocktail party or even a staycation.

After the butler has taken you to your very chic room and unpacked your clothes for you, head down to the Tea Room for fresh scones and mouth-watering pastries. Or, if tea is not your thing, substitute tea for some afternoon champagne in the hotel’s own champagne room, the rosé is fabulous! If you’re looking for a snack or informal meal check out Espelette, the décor and fine foods with surely give you the energy to take a walk around the beautiful neighborhood of Mayfair. After your walk, have dinner at Hélène Darroze’s two Michelin-starred restaurant. Expect expressive French cuisine and hand picked fresh ingredients, it is a culinary experience you won’t want to miss.

Another amazing aspect of The Connaught is their Aman Spa, the only one of its kind in London. They emphasize tranquility and rejuvenation. I recommend the Spa Signature Treatment: Inspired by Thailand, it will leave you detoxified and energized. After you’ve been detoxified, head to The Connaught bar to be re-toxified. The Connaught has a refined and rare selection of whiskies. They offer whisky and bespoke chocolate tasting for the brave, or talk to Agostino Perrone, the master behind the mix. A world-renowned bartender, his expertise will shake you up the perfect cocktail for whatever mood you are in. Without a doubt, The Connaught is a unique hotel guided to making your stay as classy as classy gets.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

City Guide: 72 Hours in London

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The 72 Hours City Guide in London is finally here, just in time for London’s Fashion Week! As we follow the world of fashion around the globe, this week’s stop is none other than the city of the “hip royals”. London, being one of our favorite cities in the world, was especially important for us to find the best new restaurants and places to visit for you Posh travelers!

With the help of our dear friend Daphne, at Hotel Insider, we gathered the most ah-ma-zing hotels, restaurants, bars, and more. This hour by hour plan is the only guide you need to follow during your week in London!

Thursday:

 

12:00 pm- Check-in to our favorite hotel in London, The Connaught (article coming Friday). It is an ultra-stylish residence with a remarkable pedigree. There are certain standards that must be upheld in London hospitality. And thanks to a $140 million restoration, this landmark brick Victorian has reclaimed the glory of a golden era.

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For another more fashionable options, try the May Fair Hotel: the official hotel partner for LFW, The Blakes Hotel and the Number Sixteen Hotel.

6:00 pm- Take a stroll around Mayfair, Bond Street and Piccadilly. They are all iconic places to visit and shop for your next London Fashion Week outfit.

8:30 pm– Looking for a delicious spot for dinner? Bar Bulud at the Mandarin Oriental is your stop. Although it’s not your typical brand spanking new spot, the food is to die for. Do not forget to order the boudin blanc.

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If you are looking for something more fun,  go to Berner’s Tavern at the London EDITION. The decor is super chic,  and the cocktails are superb.

11:00 pm-If you feel like dancing after dinner, Bart’s is a speakeasy bar in Sloane Square camouflaged inside a residential building. As you get to the door, you have to knock, they then pull the panel from a tiny hatch, and decide whether or not you can come in, it is super-exclusive.

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If you haven’t had enough fun, head over to Cuckoo, one of our favorite nightclubs. You can also try The Box. It is the same concept as the New York location: burlesque club with very risqué shows on stage.

 

Friday:

 

10 am- Stop for coffee and a delicious breakfast at The Botanist. This chic restaurant will definitely make you feel like you are in the heart of fashion week, and make you forget about your hangover.

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2:00 pm- Check out the Saatchi Gallery near Sloane Square and look for a fun exhibit! The Times Newseum is the newest exhibition, it helps you discover the secrets behind delivering daily news stories since 1785.

6:00 pm- If you feel like burning off some calories to fit in your outfit for tonight, try the new Kicksana class. It is a hybrid of yoga and Thai-boxing fusion. After doing a series of hooks and uppercuts you’ll be doing tree and warrior poses. Kicksana also includes the ‘Piloxing’, cardio fusion of standing pilates, boxing and dance.

8:30 pm- For dinner head over to Chiltern Firehouse in Marylebone, the latest Andre Balazs property. Due to the fact that it is the most desirable hotel and restaurant in town,  getting a table might be tricky, unless you call a few weeks in advance. Our favorite dish was the Ibero pork rib. After dinner indulge on a Nespresso martini with a twist of tequila to speed up the digestion.

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If you didn’t have much luck in Chiltern Firehouse, another great place to try is Cecconi’s. This unmissable Italian spot is my first stop every time I set foot in London.

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Hakkasan is also a great Chinese spot if you are in the mood for a scene-y dinner.

10:30 pm- Head to the Laddershed bar at the Chiltern Firehouse. If you still cannot get in, try the speakeasy Mr Foggs, which happen to be the same owners as Barts, in Mayfair.

 

Saturday:

 

10:00 am- Breakfast at my favorite place, the Pantechnicon in Knightsbridge. The free-range eggs Benedict and buttermilk pancakes are just heavenly.

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2:00 pm- A perfect place for an afternoon High Tea is the Berkeley Hotel, also known as the fashionable afternoon tea Prêt-à-Portea at The Caramel Room. Prêt-à-Portea sweets are inspired by Manolo Blahnik, Oscar de la Renta, Jason Wu among other fashion designers. The menu is transformed every six months to follow the changing seasons in fashion.

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5:00pm- Attend a fashion show. For over three decades JOSEPH has been at the forefront of fashion offering an authoritative view of the season’s trends embodied in the JOSEPH collection and reinforced with a select presentation from the key international designers.

Renowned for its knitwear, sharp tailoring and androgynous femininity, JOSEPH recreates classics with a cool modern edge.

7:00 pm- Saturday night is the night to check out the new IT restaurant Gymkhana, a modern Indian restaurant in Mayfair adored by critiques.

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If Gymkhana is not your cup of tea, the stunning Shangri-La at the Shard just opened its doors to the public. It is located in a sky-high building offering great views for drinks at GONG or dinner at LANG.

 8:30PM- If you finished dinner early, try to pop in to the Marchesa fashion show. Georgina and Keren’s beautifully crafted runway collections and accessories line fuse exquisite detailing with supreme femininity. Coveted not only by celebrities, but by women of all ages, Marchesa continues to be the centerpiece of iconic red carpet moments and high end fashion alike.

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10:00 pm – Drinks at The Blue Bar at the Berkley Hotel.

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Another great place for dinner is Bodegra Negra. The Mexican restaurant  is hip and delicipus. The location is a tad questionable (behind the window of a sex shop), but the food reminds me of my hometown in Mexico. Do not forget that no suits are llowed, so make sure you change into a “cool” attire before you walk in.

 

Sunday: 

 

10:00 am- Breakfast at The Wolseley, do not forget to book in advance. This iconic Picadilly landmark is next to the Ritz Hotel.

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2:00pm- Lunch at the Portobello Road market, one of the most famous street markets in the world. It is a popular destination for Londoners and tourists. Portobello Road goes straight through the heart of Notting Hill.

5:00 pm- Sunset drinks on the rooftop of the Shoreditch House. The pool and the library are the perfect spots to relax after a hectic weekend filled with fashion, friends and great food. Keep in mind that you need to be a member or be accompanied by one to get in.

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For the 72 Hours in New York City Guide, click here!

 

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The Crosby Street Hotel. New York City

Hotel of the Week, , , ,

As you can imagine, I am very particular about hotels in New York. There are so many options (old and new) and I always feel like I need to narrow down my options to three hotels max for my readers. The Crosby Street Hotel, part of the fabulous Firmdale Hotels, is definitely up there, next to the Surrey and The Mark Hotel.

New York City is known for is art and historic culture, and yet rarely you find the two mixed into a hotel. With 86 rooms on 11 floors the Crosby Street Hotel is definitely a spacious place in the perpetually crowded NYC.

Placed in the center of a cobblestone street in the trendy SoHo neighborhood, this reformed parking lot hotel is in true minimalist form to match the neighborhood’s industrial history. Made of brick, stone, and glass compliments the surrounding urban landscape. Kit Kemp, the owner’s wife, definitely has the perfect eye to make this happen.

From the moment you set foot inside, you will be wowed. Once you arrive at the hotel, head over to The Crosby Bar for their staple, the Tiger’s Eye, or delight yourself in a yummy champagne cocktail.

The hotel itself is comprised of original and usual pieces for a hotel. Collaborations with local designer and artisans help decorate the hotel. Along with the lobby, the Drawing Room, Sculpture Garden, and Crosby Terrace are each unique in style. The Sculpture Garden is a quiet sanctuary for the guests; it is away from hustle&bustle and noise of the city. The Crosby Terrace is a sunny little spot open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea all day. Order the Ruinart Tea, which comes with scones, tea sandwiches, and your choice of tea. Talk about lavish!

The rooms of this contemporary hotel are each unique- with their own color palette and personality. Each room is spacious and light with floor-to-ceiling warehouse style windows. I usually opt for the one-bedroom Crosby Suite, the views are utterly spectacular and the rooms come with a living room and dining area. The design is uber chic- the purple, gray, and green interior matched with the high-ceiling chandelier is perfection.

Don’t miss what I think is the best service any hotel can offer: They have a pressing and unpacking service for those who are pressed for time, which is especially useful for the on-the-go New York Fashion Week crowd. In the meantime, just go grab a quick bite at Balthazar, which is 15 ft away.

One of the most unique things about this hotel is the Rooftop Kitchen Garden. It is situated on the 12th floor of the hotel. This garden is an urban vegetable patch managed by the hotel’s head chef Anthony Paris. It supplies the hotel’s restaurant with fresh seasonal produce such as melons, blueberries, tomatoes, and herbs. Whatever the occasion for your visit to NYC, The Crosby Street hotel is one of my personal favorites and the ultimate in combining art and luxury.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.

City Guide: 72 Hours in NY Fashion Week

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It’s that time of the year again, where all the fashion geeks, designers’ muses, and fashion industry vets collide to celebrate New York’s Fashion Week. Since the week gets super hectic, we’ve put an hour-by-hour schedule of our fave (and hottest) places and restaurants to help you enjoy all that NYC has to offer. With the help of the fabulous lifestyle and fashion blogger SkirtSorbet, we custom created this city-guide just for you Posh travelers! Check out our shop below for our must-haves of the season

 

Thursday:

 

6:00 pm- Check in at the Surrey Hotel. What I love most about this hotel is the decor; it is definitely one of my favorite hotels in New York. While you are staying there make sure you visit their rooftop, it has an incredible view to downtown and uptown Manhattan and is your own secret little garden. This is the perfect hotel to stay in during NYFW!

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8:30 pm– Looking for a new trendy place to eat? The new Ralph Lauren restaurant is both traditional and stylish.

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If you want something more modern, Gato is the place to see and be seen. From iron chef Bobby Flay, this restaurant is not only delicious but also has a really chic ambiancegallery-1441373977-hbz-chic-eats-nyfw-co.

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If you prefer something low key, but delicious, try the new artisan pizza spot, Co Pane.

 

11:00 pm- Feel like dancing? Up and down is the place to not only dance your butt off but it is also great for some quality celeb-sightings (It used to be The Darby). For something more laid back The Library at the NoMad hotel will be perfect for you.

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Friday:

 

10 am- Stop for coffee, juice, and a delicious trendy avocado toast at Two Hands. This Australian spot with delicious coffee, unique smoothies, and juices is perfect to start your day.

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Another cool, healthy, and trendy breakfast stop is Butcher’s Daughter. Make sure to get one of their elixir shots; it will erase any last worries from the night before.

If you’re in a hurry between shows, something closer to the Mercedes-Benz tent is Norma’s, a famous and classic spot for a delicious breakfast.

2:00 pm- Casual lunch at the Fat Radish so you can feel like a real New Yorker! If you want to stay closer to the meatpacking district, for all the runways I recommend Cookshop, always packed with artsy people and has a cool view of New York’s famous Highline.

Krieger, 10/13/10

6:00 pm– Barry’s Bootcamp class has the most insane workout with 2 locations one in Chelsea and the other one in Tribeca. Make sure to book a class in advance because they get full very quickly.

8:30 pm- It’s dinnertime and if you want to have the best new sushi in NYC make a reservation at the famous sushi place Nakazawa with the best omakase. If you’re not in the mood for sushi, have a delicious Italian dinner at the trendy Bar Primi; you will love the food and the decoration.

Sushi Nakazawa

If you are looking for one of the best burgers in town, because let’s face it, no one can leave NYC without having one. Minetta Tavern is the right place for you. The best classic spot for a burger and you might even be seated next to Jude Law.

10:30 pm- Head to Acme for a round of delicious drinks and rubbing shoulders with NYC‘s cool kids.

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Saturday:

 

10:00 am- Delicious breakfast at Maialino inside the Gramercy hotel.

2:00 pm- A perfect place for an afternoon refreshment of rosé at Champagne Charlie’s at the Highline hotel. Fun Fact: this hotel used to be a student housing back in 1895!

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4:00pm- Do you have Time for an exhibition? The painting Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I by Gustav Klimt is on permanent view at the Neue Galerie. The Picasso Sculpture is also in exhibition at the MOMA. Finally, my favorite exhibition in New York is by Albert Oelhen at the New Museum.

 

7:00 pm- Saturday night is the night to check out the new IT restaurant in NYC, Charlie Bird. What to order: start with the faro salad and a bottle of Chianti, then the Pasta Nero with crab or Duck egg pasta. Once you’ve been filled to the brim, dance off the carbs at the ultra-exclusive Boom Boom Room.

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Or if you’re in the mood for an early dinner and drinks, check out Narcissa, inside the new Standard East Village hotel. Another delicious place it’s the French restaurant Claudette from the same owners of Rosemary’s.

 

Sunday: 

 

10:00 am- Breakfast at Lafayette with the best pancakes and delicious coffee.

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2:00pm- Visit the McNally Jackson bookshop at 52 Prince Street. It is the best bookshop from easy autumn reading to statement books.

3:00 pm- Laduree’s new location at Soho needs to be visited by you. I always order the caramel Macaroon. If you have time, the backyard is super nice to have a cup of tea or coffee to relax before you’re off to the next Fashion Week in London.

 

 

 

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Shop:

Abu Camp. Botswana

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Your entrance to Abu Camp, which is only reachable by plane, is an experience in itself. Flying over the Okavango Delta, you soar over Buffalo, Giraffes, Rhinoceros, Cheetahs, and Elephants. This camp was created to transform the idea you had about Wilderness Collections and elephants. Guests of Abu Camp are offered a rare and exclusive experience to be hands-on with the African Elephants within the camp. This 450,000 acre private game reserve is located on the largest inland delta on the planet which means more animals and sightseeing than anywhere in the world.

Pathways link the camp’s six guest rooms and main area. Each room is open-air canvas and very spacious. Each room is decorated differently and with it’s own style. My favorite room has amazing elephant wall décor, suitcases for a table and a zebra print rug. Each room is truly chic and would satisfy anyone’s need for comfort and luxury. The camp itself sits on a lagoon and each room has a panoramic view of the delta. “Even mealtime is romantic,” said one guest Will Taylor, “each meal is different, sometimes they will set up a spectacular meal on the deck or out in the bush”.  The best meal at Abu Camp is definitely the fresh baked pizza from the pizza oven on the pool deck. This is also a great activity for kids as they can choose their own toppings and make their own pizzas, supervised by one of the Abu Camp chefs. Abu Camp even has movie nights where they set up a large outdoor screen and hand out popcorn!

The absolute most amazing experience about this camp is the Elephant herd that is in residence at Abu. It is an unparalleled chance to immerse yourself into the elephant herd. You can get to know the elephants of all ages, from playful babies, to teenagers, to the wise adults, led by the grand ol’ matriarch Cathy. Abu Camp encourages you to take walks with these beautiful creatures in the morning and experience a safari trip from the back of an elephant. If this doesn’t impress you nothing will!

Other activities include fishing in the Delta, you could catch some yummy Tilapia if you’re lucky, guided game reserve tours, and canoeing a few other options. However, if you are seeking the ultimate immersion into Abu Camp and the elephant herd, look no further than the Star Bed. On request, guests can reserve this bed for a night and sleep and a large, raised high above the ground, with an unobstructed view of the starry night sky. Below you are the elephants’ sleeping quarters and they will drift you to sleep with their melodic sounds.

 

Photographs courtesy of the property.