Plage Beau Rivage Nice

The South of France is filled with miles and miles of beaches. From large stones to fine sand, these beaches are simply beautiful and the choices can some times seem overwhelming. I have experienced the beaches of Nice multiple times now, both public and private. 

The public beaches of Nice are great, but be prepared for the large stones as they can be quite uncomfortable after a few hours. On a recent trip to Nice, I decided to experience one of the many private beach options along the Promenade des Anglais. I had heard great things about Plage Beau Rivage and had read great reviews about the beach as well. 

Let me just say that one trip to Beau Rivage turned into 4! If you are looking for the experience a private beach has to offer, I highly recommend trying Beau Rivage. The iconic blue and white strip umbrella and chairs line this section of the beach. I opted for front row chairs which do come at a premium over the other rows, but I do recommend the unobstructed view, especially during high season. 

Visting a private beach for the day will definitely be an expense, but the comfort of the chair, the available menu, the service, and amenities all make for a very enjoyable afternoon. A chair, towel, and umbrella will run about 25 euros per person. Full details and reservation are available online.

I recommend the Greek salad for a nice afternoon meal paired with a large bottle of rosé to enjoy throughout the day. You really cannot go wrong!

What to Pack for a Trip to Cote d'Azur

I am exciting to be jetting off to the South of France to hopefully enjoy some sunny days on the riviera. The Cote d'Azur is one of my favorite places in the world as it just exudes natural beauty and truly is how Slim Aaron's depicted it in his series of photographs.

It will be an exciting to be on the riviera with the 68th Festival du Cannes commencing, however, it is also a tricky time in terms of packing. The spring season will call for more than just shorts, sunglasses, and t-shirts as the temperatures will remain mild during the day and cool in the evening.

I am one for which packing is always a dreaded task despite traveling frequently. I recently took a trip to Paris, however, the Cote d'Azur calls for a much more vibrant color palette, one to match the azur blue waters of the Mediterranean. Below are my suggestions for stylish trip to the South of France.

Sandals: Ralph Lauren // Sunglasses: Armani // Wallet: Goyard // Trunks: Lilly Pulitzer & Ralph Lauren (similar) // T-Shirt: Hanes

If you are like me, the main appeal of going to the coast will be spending days lounging on the beach, at a beach lounge, or soaking up the sun in your favorite spot. With that being said, I recommend packing daywear that centers around statement swimwear (read my recent love for statement swimwear). Great swim trunks will be perfect for the beach, but when paired with a simple white v-neck and sandals, these trunks are the basis of a great casual outfit perfect for going from beach to cafe in town. 

Shirt: Ralph Lauren // Sunglasses: Saint Laurent // Bracelet: Miansai // Cargos: Ralph Lauren (similar) // Sandals: Ralph Lauren

When transitioning for the beach & day to evening, I selected pieces that were colorful and light. Since temperatures are slightly cooler at night, I recommend light weight chinos and cargo pants for a more modern look. Pair bright hues with white for a simple, classic look. Accessorize with great sunglasses, eyewear, and a bracelet. Be sure to pack pants that match a myriad of your tops, allowing you to pack less and save room in your suitcase for anything you might pick up during your visit. 

Baselworld 2015 Salon Preview

If you are into timepieces like myself, Baselworld is probably on your radar. The event, huge in the watch world, is quickly approaching. This year's exhibit will be held March 19-26 in Basel, Switzerland to showcase the newest pieces and trends in Swiss timepieces for 2015. The location is picturesque and I love the modern architecture of the exhibition gallery.

I have been fortunate to get a sneak peek at some of the latest watches that will be debuting this year at Baselworld 2015. The amount of timepieces on display can be overwhelming, however, I have curated a selection of a few from the salon that have caught my eye.

Breitling Chronoliner

This new model from Breitling takes inspiration from a model dating back to the 1950s and 60s. The brand is known as the "official supplier to world aviation" during this era, and the new Chronoliner pays homage to the brand's aeronautical tradition. ts distinctive features include a broad scratch-resistant high-tech ceramic bezel with a star-shaped cut-out that facilitates handling as well as white ceramic numerals creating an optimal contrast. The second timezone is easily read off by means of a red-tipped hand together with a 24-hour graduated rotating bezel equipped with an ultra-accurate ratcheted system. The timepiece is done in a 48mm polished steel case with a mechanical automatic chronometer.

Burberry Britain Icon Limited Edition

I am loving this new limited edition (20 pieces) by Burberry. It has a modern, updated feel from some of the watches of the past and incorporates the heritage check in a subtle way. Additionally this model was designed by Burberry CEO Christopher Bailey. The timepiece is done in 45mm polished and brushed anthracite DLC-treated titanium case complete with black alligator strap. 

Chopard L.U.C Qualité Fleurier

Chopard presents a timepiece which has one of the most prestigious certifications in the world of horology, the Fleurier Quality. The brand is indeed the one that has had the most watches certified by the Fleurier Quality Foundation since the creation of the much-coveted label, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2014 Foundation. Done in 18K pink gold with a mechanical automatic movement, this watch will pair well with business attire to make a statement. 

Breguet Tradition Automatique Seconde Rétrograde

Breguet’s latest creation, the Tradition Automatique Seconde Rétrograde 7097 pays tribute to the “souscription” and “tact” watches made by Abraham-Louis Breguet in the late 18th century. Like them, its mechanism reveals the bridges, wheels, escapement, barrel and various other parts that are normally placed beneath the plate. The small offset dial at 12 o’clock – another characteristic of the great master’s legendary “à tact” watches – on the new Tradition 7097 model is overlapped by a retrograde seconds segment promoting optimal readability. I love the combination of the delicacy of the roman numerals and sub-dial mixed the the modernity of the skeleton dial. Available in 18K white or pink gold. 

This is only the tip of the iceberg in terms of the hundreds of watches that will be debuted at Baselworld. I am enjoying the trends I am seeing, and I also love the homage to their heritage that a lot of brands are showing with their newest models. I look forward to the exhibit opening at the end of this month!

Galleria Victor Emmanuel Milan

Milan fashion week is underway and I have been seeing a lot of photos on street style blogs and Instagram of not only the fashion but also the city. One of my favorite locations for many shots is the Galleria Victor Emmanuel.

The Galleria Victor Emmanuel is one of the world's oldest shopping malls and was named after the first king of the Kingdom of Italy. The structure dates back to 1865. This galleria was at the top of my list during my visit to Milan and it did not disappoint. The structure is simply stunning with its covered, open-air design.

The shopping center serves as a central meeting point for the milanese people and has become home to designer stores and cafés. The facades of Prada and Louis Vuitton sit well next to the beautiful glass dome ceiling. It is a great place to people watch while being surrounded by gorgeous architecture. I recommend sipping on an espresso at the Gucci espresso bar.

The center is only steps away from the famed Duomo. I have written about luxury as a lifestyle in Milan previously, and the Galleria really embraces this idea with the mix of luxury stores and restaurants. Whether you are being shot for a street style photo during fashion week and shopping for your next Prada bag, the Galleria Victor Emmanuel is a must-see when visiting Milan.

*All photos are my own

Postcards from Paris

It was great to be back in the City of Lights and spend a few days immersing in everything Paris has to offer. It was a relatively short trip filled with shopping, sightseeing, and even more eating. I believe that Paris is one of those cities that speaks for itself, so here are a few of my favorite shots captured during my recent trip.

We had great weather for Paris standards thanks to the "Indian Summer" that everyone is talking about. It truly is one of the prettiest cities that I have traveled to....5 days just was not enough to see everything on my list. With a busy work schedule, I sure am missing afternoons people watching while sipping champagne!

Café Kitsuné Opening in Paris

French fashion label Maison Kitsuné will be opening its second café in Paris on January 17th. This opening comes after the success launch of Café Kitsuné last winter in Tokyo. I love the aesthetic of the Maison Kitunsé and cannot wait to see photos of the new location opening in Paris.

The location was developed by Gildas Loaec and Masaya Kuroki, and features the charm of a quaint European café mixed with clean design. It will offer a place to take a moment out of a busy day in Paris to recharge and relax over great coffees and espressos. The café will blend fashion, music, design, and lifestyle. This café will be the epitome of cosmopolitan life and the café experience. 

A selection of Kitsuné accessories and music compilations will be available for purchase. Additionally the menu features London-roasted coffee, tea, juices, and gluten-free pastries and cakes from Noglu.

This will be a must visit on the next trip to Paris!

Café Kitsuné Paris

30 Rue de Montpensier

75001 Paris

Garden of Palais Royal

Photo: Maison Kitsuné

Milan Memories

Instagram Travel Thursday at Skimbaco Lifestyle prompted me to start thinking about memories from my end of summer vacation across Europe. I recently saw someone post a photo from the La Bar Rinascente in Milan, and it reminded me of how much I enjoyed the Italian city while visiting. 

This week for Instagram Travel Thursday, I am having memories of Milan. It was filled with gelato, amazing architecture, picturesque beauty, and of course, amazing shopping and fashion. 

Have you visited Milan Before?

I would love to return to the city during men's fashion week or in the winter. I heard it is a lot busier than the time in August when I visited. Most Europeans go to the coast during this time, but return to the city with the start of fall. 

Meet other bloggers with a passion for travel through Instagram Travel Thrusday!

Hosted at Skimbaco

Reflecting on the Riviera

In August, I concluded summer in the Riviera- in my eyes one of the best ways to end the summer before a year of hard work ahead. The French Riviera is one of my favorite places in the world. Everywhere you look it is just picture perfect. 

I've found myself sitting in class or at work reminiscing a lot of about the Azur waters of the Mediterranean and the French wine. I think another vacation is in store. I invite you, too, to reflect on the Riviera as I share some of my favorite Instagram pictures from Nice, Monaco, and Villefranche. 

The colors along the Mediterranean are just breathtaking. I could put hundreds of photos up, but I think these Instagram shots I captured do it good justice. Have you traveled to the South of France before? If so, what was your favorite town?

I am excited to be participating in "Instagram Travel Thursday" this week, started by Katja Presnal of Skimbaco Lifestyle. Join other travels and get an inside look into some amazing photos around the world. This week, I am linking up at Hines Sight Blog. Happy traveling!

Cote d'Azur

The Cote d'Azur was my favorite travel destination on my recent excursion to Europe. In the month of August, the south of France begins the destination for chic French and Americans as well. Since most French get the entire month of August off from work, I found there to be more natives than Americans which I thought was great!

I selected Nice as the town to stay since it has the airport and lots to do. There are TONS of small towns and villages on the Cote d'Azur, and each one is equally amazing and beautiful. Nice offers an airport, public and private beaches (which are stone), a promenade, and port. 

Why is the Cote d'Azur my favorite place? As you can see from the images, it looks like a postcard everywhere you look almost everyday. The water is truly a deep azur blue. Additionally, as someone who speaks French, it is always great to get to use and practice the language. It makes restaurant and travel experiences much more enjoyable and less stressful!

It is very easy to get from Nice to neighboring towns such as Antibes, Cannes, Villefranche, and Monaco. I took the train to Villefranche (2 minute ride from the nearest Nice station) and to Monaco (17 minute ride). The trip to Monaco was only about $6 roundtrip.  My favorite town was Villefranche. It was absolutely incredible with its famous "Citadelle" overlooking the bay filled with swimmers and yachts. The town itself is beautiful with narrow stone streets and pastel colored houses.

I choose to stay in an apartment rented from the owner rather than a hotel. In Nice, this is definitely a less expensive option as hotels can be quite expensive, but I also feel like it provides for a more authentic travel experience. Ours was quite authentic as we got to deal with native Francophones who owned the apartment- French came in handy once again! Our place was right near the port of Nice and the Vielle Ville which was great. If you are traveling to Europe I definitely recommend apartments before looking at hotels!

Have you been to the South of France? What was your favorite town? There are a few on my list that I didn't get to go to so that will have to be saved for the next trip!

Life in the Mediterranean

After a brief hiatus, I am back and slightly more tan from the Mediterranean sun. I was fortunate enough to travel throughout the Mediterranean and Dalmatian coast in France, Italy, and Croatia. The lifestyle in these areas is beyond relaxing- slow mornings, arriving to the beach, a drink in the early evening, and a late dinner. Adjusting back to the fast paced lifestyle we live here in the US will take a bit of time!

I have a bunch a great photos that I will share specific to each location, but here is a glimpse into life on the Mediterranean:

It was great to be in many of these places during the high season as many Europeans have the entire month of August. We noticed that there did not seem to be too many Americans, so it provided for an even more authentic experience. 

Look for more photos to appear in the coming weeks!

Discover Barcelona

With all the travel I have done in Europe, prior to my most recent trip I had never visited Spain. Spain is one of the most popular countries to visit, second to France. I recently traveled to Spain, specifically Barcelona for a taste of the Mediterranean. 

I left the dreary New York weather behind for mostly sunny skies and 60 degree temperatures. I could definitely get used to the Mediterranean climate! Barcelona is hands down a beautiful city. It actually reminded me a lot of Los Angeles; there are beaches, hills with winding roads and large homes, a city center, and a touch of smog.

The architecture, in my opinion, was a main focal point of the city. Gothic churches fill the old section of the city, and Gaudi buildings, such as the famed Sagrada Famillia, are spread across the entire city. I can definitely see why many people fall in love with this city. Getting lost in the narrow, winding streets of the Gothic District is fun rather than stressful and worrisome. 

The Spanish lifestyle is as you may have heard, slow and relaxing. Friends and I would enjoy tapas and a bottle of Cava in the afternoon for hours, with no rush by the waitstaff. I got to explore some local, trendy hotspots thanks to a friend that was living there and in town at the same time!  I dont want to bombard you with photos, so perhaps I will make a little Barcelona series.

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