RETREAT
We've done the work for you and found the ultimate health and wellness getaway to add to your must-do list. Join the author, Brittany Bamrick, along with her bestie + fellow yoga rockstar, Ashley Griffin, for a full week in paradise, January 26-February 2, 2019. The ladies of Bliss Camp Retreats can't wait to get you #blissedout on the beaches of Sayulita, Mexico for their inaugural surf and yoga retreat. Follow @blisscampretreats on Instagram for details!
Brittany is wearing KARMA for a Cure Vacation Tank
Photography by Anjanette McGrath
xo
]]>Aruba is known for it's white sandy beaches and perfect weather - 82 degrees with an almost always 0% chance of rain. A favorite island for many vacationers who rely on Aruba for sunshine, tan lines and a safe island adventure away from home.
During my recent trip to the beautiful (yet commercialized) Caribbean Island, I was looking for a little more "je ne sais quoi" than the average vacationer. I wanted to explore deserted islands during the day and taste new cuisines each night. And thats just what I did...enter Private Island equipped with live flamingos and all.
In my Aruba Travel Guide I highlight "Where to Stay" to get away from it all & "Best Eats" for my fellow foodies. Throw on your Professional Jet-Setter Sweater and lets "jet" to it!...
Where to Stay (to get away from it all): Renaissance Private Island
Located in Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, the Renaissance is the most under-the-radar place to stay and the only hotel that has access to the best kept secret: Private Island. Removed from the main hotel strip, located further south, the Renaissance is "downtown" in the heart of the city with access to restaurants, shopping, casinos and culture. Your nights are filled with Happy Hour at the Adults Only Pool, complete with scenic sunsets and super cute DJ's (you feel like you're in South Beach), while your days are super low key and relaxing.
Daily Goals: 1) Wake up 2) throw on a bikini 3) meet inside the Hotel's gondola 4) get escorted via private speedboat to the amazing Private island. Hard life, right?
The boat ride is approximately 10-15 minutes and was my daily dose of "watersports" (multi-tasking 101). Just a hop, skip, and speedboat away, you arrive at the pristine Private Island. Exit onto a Palapa covered dock where a fork in the road directs you two ways.
Left: Iguana Island, where the Iguanas reside, children play and a huge Palapa Bar/Restaurant is located.
Right: Flamingo Beach, where a dozen pink Flamingos live (and sunbathe with you), adults only, cocktails + beach fare is delivered to your sun-lounge, ocean side. I venture right...
Upon entering Flamingo Beach, these beautiful creatures welcome you with open wings. They literally run up to you, sometimes intimidating new guests. Once you say hi and become acquainted, you are rather surprised at how sweet and relaxed they are. They must be on island time.
You can feed the flamingos special grain (they are super gentle and scoop it up sideways with their beaks), or take a swim with them to cool off from the strong caribbean sun. Either way, the Flamingos are the highlight of every Private Islander's vacation.
The Private Island is super quiet, relaxing and serene. There is a small hut extended on the water for massages on the beach. The prosecco is always chilled and the fresh fish is grilled to perfection. This is truly the perfect island escape for laying on a hammock, reading a book, soaking in the sun and refreshing your mindset. Turn your iPhone off and be one with nature.
No beach day would be complete without the essentials: KARMA for a cure Mykonos Halo Head-Chain , Alexander McQueen Sunnies, Sun Bum SPF 30 Chapstick, Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Sunscreen, Aztec Beach Blanket
My go to clothing item on this trip was the KARMA for a cure Bonefish Knit Sweater. Light-weight for the beach, yet warm enough to throw on over my shoulders during a breezy island night. I love the versatility, as when I travel I only bring a carry on suitcase. (Shocking, I know!) This saves me time at the airport and requires me to focus on packing only the essentials. As my life motto permits: pack smarter, not harder.
After working on your beach glow, head back to civilization and get ready to indulge in the "Best Eats" Aruba has to offer. And lets just say, they had some of the best cuisine variety and consistency out of all of the islands I have traveled to...
"Best Eats" (for my fellow foodies): Gianni's (eat pasta out of a wheel of cheese because italian's do it best), Yemanja Woodfire Grill (eclectic, hidden within a dark alley, best kept secret), Barefoot (grilled fish & great views), Passions on the Beach (they will seriously serenade you ocean-side), Amuse Bistro (French and fabulous) & Screaming Eagle (eat dinner from bed)...
First stop is dinner ocean-side with a scenic sunset and a chilled glass of Whispering Angel rosé at Passions on the Beach. The name says it all - romantic, candlelit, feet in the sand, with a violinist playing love songs sure to make you cry (and feel super single). Look past the couples hand feeding each other and focus on the amazing presentation of watermelon, feta, mint salad complete with an unexpected chili sauce for a spicy kick. I'm into it. Follow with a light and crispy vegetarian spring roll, also really tasty. The highlight of my night (besides the watermelon presentation, obviously) was the Chilean Sea-bass Special. If it's on the menu and includes toasted sesame, miso glaze, get it. You won't be disappointed.
Next stop is Yemanja Woodfire Grill located in the "downtown" area of Oranjestad, on a dark street with minimal signage. Once you find the golden door you will be so surprised at the beautifully decorated, rustic backyard restaurant that is poppin' with curated cocktails and eclectic eats. I definitely recommend getting a bunch of apps and sharing plates as there are just too many special items not to miss out on.
Start with the warm Filo Dough and Goat Cheese Salad, topped with prunes, walnuts and honey. Who doesn't love a goat cheese filled pouch? Next try the Tuna Tartar with wasabi creme and sesame crisps, seriously outstanding. If you're feeling tired of seafood, indulge in their famous Open Faced Mediterranean Veggie Burger topped with kale, cranberries, feta and fried onions. All items are super decadent, interesting and healthy (for the most part!). The wood-fire flavor is unbeatable...
Amuse Bistro is a high-end French restaurant located on the main hotel strip. It is small and quaint with outdoor seating that overlooks the tourist hustle and bustle. An unexpected stop here ended up being one of the most delicious and filling meals I have encountered, ever. I literally had to be rolled out of the restaurant.
I started with a Creamy French Onion Soup, " when in France!" (or rather a french restaurant) which was topped with a cheese crouton. I am not a usual soup lover, but being that it was chilly and I was pretty sunburned, it was just what the doctor ordered. And this soup was literally the best I've ever had. I then tasted the truffle linguine, a decadent dish you can never go wrong with. I finished the night strong with the hungry girl portion: a 10 oz Rock Lobster in Baked Potato 'Au Gratin'. I cannot even explain this dish, it's a lobster baked inside of a creamy potato. Weird? A little. Delicious? To die for!!! (seriously heart attack worthy) The memory still resides...
Speaking of cheese and heart attacks, Gianni's is up next on my list. The famous Italian eatery known for their flaming pasta cooked table-side, in a wheel of cheese...need I say more! The special Spaghetti al Formaggio Parmiggiano is an authentic Italian dish flamed with whiskey at your table with fresh tomato sauce and basil. It is worth the calories and is an experience to remember. I also highly suggest the Insalata di Pesce, a light and refreshing seafood salad which is super fresh and light.
Barefoot Restaurant is a vacationer favorite. Located on the beach, the casual yet upscale ambiance is the perfect combo. Start with Vanilla Skewered Scallops on caramelized endive, so delish. The Dutch crab cakes are a fan favorite, but had too much of a curry flavor for my palette's preference. I ended the evening with Blackened Mahi Mahi topped with pineapple salsa. Super fresh, light and flavorful. All in all a good local meal.
Screaming Eagle is a restaurant/lounge with white cabana SoBe ambiance. The location is not scenic on the outside, but the energy on the inside is great for cocktails and apps. They have a delish selection of Tartar (my fav) from ahi tuna to yellowfin tuna and even wahoo. Feeling cozy? Eat dinner in "bed" but make sure to reserve your spot in advance.
After indulging in multiple meals, refresh your palette with a hydrating coconut shucked via machete. This local vendor named Perry is located right across from the hotel and taught me how to use a machete! (In case I ever have a Tom Hanks "Cast Away" moment...) Perry was a positive, spiritual and genuine man who really embraced the culture of the hospitable island.
A huge highlight of my trip was the constant encounters with nature. From the pristine waters, soft sand, iguanas and flamingos on Private Island; to the local Pelicans at the boating docks who posed for photos and were a great reminder to enjoy the little things in life.
"Tan lines fade, but memories last forever..."
All in all, Aruba is a great island for vacationers looking for R&R during the day and energy during the night. With perfect weather and top notch chefs, I'll be sure to island hop here on my next Caribbean adventure. Au Revoir!
Xx, Margaux
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"Welcome to Miami, Bienvenido a Miami!" It only seems appropriate to quote the infamous Will Smith song circa 1997 to get into the Miami mindset. A recent getaway to Mana Wynwood Art District for our SS16 Trade-show Exhibition was the most scenic and rewarding adventure. From my usual obsession of chasing sunsets to beach bumming on Ocean Drive, the trip was truly one to remember.
When traveling to Miami, I love to embrace the culture. From Wynwood Wall's saturated graffiti to Lincoln Road's restaurant/shopping central, there is always something great to do and to see. As I uber my way down the world renowned Collins Ave, I fall in love all over again. The sight of perfectly lined palm trees, the feeling of the warm ocean breeze, and the sound of (ahem, you guessed it) "party in the city where the heat is on" is enough to make me want to relocate, permanently.
While transitioning from jet set to surf side, the SS16 KARMA lifestyle collection was essential. I wore my go-to versatile piece: the Seaside Cardigan (shown below) a million times. The neutral knit cardigan features a tassel front and can be worn easily with denim (as a layering piece) or as a bikini coverup. I love the effortlessness and multiple use, especially while traveling.
After a day at the beach, admiring seagulls and succulents, I discovered a delish italian resturant on Ocean Drive. "Cafe Milano" had the most mouthwatering fresh linguine vongole. Their crispy etruscan "four cheese" flat bread topped with mozzarella, fontina, goat cheese and gorgonzola is another plate totally worth the calories (and clogged arteries). A lighter, yet flavorful option is the grilled grouper served with arugula pesto; super delish and even health conscious.
After indulging in italian fare, I stopped by the Versace Mansion turned "Villa" for an after dinner cocktail. The ambiance is luxe and low key. The next stop on my adventure was the swanky Delano Hotel. BEGIN SCENE: As double doors open, I walk into a long narrow room with high ceilings and dark wood floors. White sheer panels begin blowing to gusts of wind that coincide perfectly with modern jazz music. (I officially feel like I'm in a James Bond movie.) As I pass through the impeccable decor, another door opens to a whimsical low lit backyard with life size chess, glowing willow trees and magical day beds surrounding a hypnotic pool. Ah, if only I could live here...END SCENE. Back to reality.
As I constantly travel, I endure long days, climate changes and time differences. It is important to stay healthy and fuel my body with the proper vitamins and nutrients it requires. I recently discovered a new superfood product called Kura Lifestyle. It's a green powdery substance that you scoop into your beverage of choice for a complete punch of vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, electrolytes and plant based protein. I'm pescetarian, (I don't eat meat) and I hate consuming mounds of pills so this product offered the best solution. While it contains super greens, camu camu and eleuthro root, it does have a very earthy flavor, so I suggest mixing it with a smoothie for the most decadent result. My go-to recipe is frozen banana, blueberries, strawberries and almond milk. Its a great additive to green juice too and was the perfect dose of vitamins to get me through my travels!
P.S. My other favorite spots to check out while in Miami: Katsuya, Joe's Stone Crab, Prime 112, The Setai, Lincoln Road & Wynwood Walls. You won't be disappointed. Enjoy!
XxMM
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Summer is the season to see and be seen in Southampton. New York locals trade in the concrete jungle for white sand, scenic sunsets and lavish pool parties. A recent trip "out east" was an adventurous weekend rendezvous for myself and my girlfriends. We started our visit in the small town of Hampton Bays; exploring local beaches, shopping at mom & pop boutiques and working up a healthy appetite.
We stumbled across a beautiful bay-front eatery named "Cowfish," complete with water views, outside patio seating, white linens and a gourmet lunch menu worth waiting for. We indulged in Jumbo Buffalo Shrimp, topped with danish blue cheese and chives; so delish and cooked to perfection. Literally the best I've ever had. We then tasted the famous Blackened Fish Sandwich, served with house made slaw; super hearty, fresh, and highly recommended. This gem of a restaurant not only has great fare and views, they also have a private boat that shuttles guests across the bay to their sister restaurant. And if thats not enough action for you, live music's available every friday evening.
After dining dockside, we uber'd our way to the Bella Magazine White Party hosted by RHOBH's Lisa Vanderpump. The ultimate summer party was held at Capri Hotel's "Beautique" venue, complete with Russian Standard Vodka elixir's, decedent desserts and a VIP pool filled with everyones favorite swan floats. We mingled with Bravo TV celebs: Kyle Richards, Lisa Rinna and Countess LuAnn, who are all just as beautiful on-camera as off. We also ran into our favorite Features Editor, Dana Prigge, of Bella Magazine & DailyFashionista.com, as the Southampton sun set and the moon began to glow.
We ended the night under the stars at the beautiful backyard garden of Southampton Social Club; complete with curated cocktails, a DJ, and a spacious outdoor bar. The crowd was relaxed, beautiful and surprisingly unpretentious. Oh, and crawling with men. The perfect Southampton retreat for singles and large groups. Cheers to a social summer...
Xx MM
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As a New Jersey native, I grew up spending summers down the shore. My love for boating and bikini's started when I was just a baby beach-bum. From salt water fishing with my Dad at Island Beach to crabbing with my harem of cousins at Point Pleasant's Inlet, the summer's were always filled with sunshine, salt water and of course, family.
A recent, and very nostalgic, visit to Point Pleasant this summer was the perfect girl's getaway. Filled with scenic boat rides, fresh seafood and lots of Whispering Angel Rosé. I shared my favorite local spot with my girls for casual beach fare and my go-to-summer-dish: a decadent lobster roll. The tiny local fish market called "Shore Fresh," conveniently located at the fishing docks, brings in fresh grouper, lobsters and clams daily. Some of my fav's in addition to a good old fashioned lobster roll (and tail) are the lobster mac & cheese, grouper fish tacos and grilled littleneck clams. Don't forget to bring your own bottle, sandy toes, and a good appetite.
After indulging in Shore Fresh fare, we strolled next door to "Patio Bar" for their famously refreshing "Fresh Squeezed OJ Cocktails". Completing our daily vitamin-c intake with people watching, pastel sunsets and a live local band. Just what the doctor ordered...
Cheers,
XxMM
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