Tag Archives: Sitges

  • The Extra Ordinary!

    July 12, 2012

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    Sitges…Spain. My last day in this great beach town and the skies once again don’t disappoint in the perfect shade of clear azure blue. I have totally gotten into my groove of lazy days seaside just in time for it to end!

    Strolling to the beach this morning, I was struck by the everyday beauty I was amongst and in a way I was totally taking it all for granted. I stopped and slowed down and decided to REALLY LOOK!

    As a tourist, we become fixated on the big sights, the bucket list moments, and the postcard perfect pictures to bring home. But wait, I am forgetting the beauty of the ordinary…the unique yet mundane elements that make up every locale…inspiration many times comes from obscure places and things. Suddenly, you can look at something you have seen a thousand times and it strikes you as totally new, seeing something you never did before. As a fashion designer, I am constantly making the everyday into the fabulous; re-looking at vintage finds, re-discovering classic movies, and re-imagining iconic eras in a new and modern way!

    I was struck by the beauty of Spanish tiles…on floors, walls, and doorways…these beautiful works of art that are so prevalent throughout Spain! Graphic & artisan geometrics in sun-washed colors look utterly chic! I can see re-adapting these into an accent ottoman, a throw pillow, a chiffon blouse, or cool printed short. Let your imagination run wild!

    Muchas Gracias to Spain for the sights, tastes, and inspiration!

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  • My own Poseidon adventure!

    July 11, 2012

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    Sitges, Spain…I am thoroughly enjoying my chill time at the beach! But I love to eat and I am finding some YUMMY treats seaside in Spain…

    This tiny town was a former sleepy fishing village and it definitely stays true to that DNA with amazing fresh seafood. Of course, this is Spain, so cured meats, tapas, olives, and potatoes (patatas bravas) are in abundance. To accompany your meal, Spanish wines, white or red Sangria, and every version of Mojitos (strawberry Mojito seem to be a local favorite) are on the drink list.

    I have experienced some amazing seafood while here and I especially like how creatively Spanish staples are mixed with fresh caught fish!

    Fresh calamari rings, large langoustines (large shrimp), sardines prepared in a myriad of ways seem on every menu straight from the morning catch. Paella made with an array of seafood is an easy shareable plate that is super satisfying, black squid ink paella with shrimp (arroz Negro) is definitely an interesting looking choice if you want to try something new and a bit more rich… But, I love finding more creative fish preparations that I would rarely see back home…

    Yesterday, I had a delicious lunch beachside that I am still thinking about! Local fresh Turbot sautéed with Iberian Ham in a light garlic vinaigrette (Rodaballo con vinagreta tibia de jambon iberico y ago). Unusual, yet delicious! Lucious fillet of white meat turbot with crunchy bits of ham, sautéed like bacon…sooo good! You know I never met a pork product I didn’t like..

    Today is fresh caught Tuna (Atun) that I am swooning over! Now this is definitely NOT “chicken of the sea”!

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  • Going Au Naturale!

    July 11, 2012

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    I am still getting on Spanish time..dinner is late, cocktails even later, and dancing until silly o’clock!
    They even serve breakfast in the hotel until 12 noon…today I ate breakfast just in time at almost noon, still a bit groggy.

    After dancing under the stars at an outdoor beach party, I made my exit at almost 5 am and it seemed the party was just starting to get going! Phew…I must be showing my age, this is hard… I guess there isn’t any need for “after-hours” clubs here as that would just mean brunch!

    Well continuing on my comfort zone destruction, today I am off to Balmins beach…called Sitges prettiest beach and also it’s Nude beach! What’s the point? At other beaches women are topless and men wear the tiniest, leave nothing to the imagination, barely speedos!

    The walk is lovely along the water past the main church and San Sebastian beach, then you will see the Melia hotel in distance and eureka! A 10 minute walk in all from town…

    Its a lovely beach set amongst craggy rocks, calm water and no vendors pushing drinks, massages, etc…Unfortunately, there were few loungers & umbrellas available which limited my stay! These bits have never seen the sun, so I had to say “been there, done that” and move on…I didn’t really unleash some inner naturalist or exhibitionist, but I did as the locals and added to my growing list of “experiences”!

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  • A new obsession!

    July 10, 2012

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    I love finding that one thing, that new accessory, that cool piece that becomes like a new toy on Christmas morning…

    I am totally surprised by how much fashion shopping there is in Sitges…mostly beach oriented, but definitely cool watches, amazing glasses/sunglasses, and shoes. What has surprised me is the designer beach towels…who knew you could get a Moncler or Dior beach towel, I guess everybody likes to get their designer fix in a different way!

    Well, I am totally obsessing over my new flip-flops,of all things! I know everybody is still coveting their Havaianas, not me…I found these all rubber sandals here in a cool little store that I want in every color!

    These made in Italy matte rubber “Henry & Henry” flips have a grooved sole and are as light as air…you don’t even feel you have anything on! I think the bright range of colors are great way to “pop” your wardrobe…best of all they were 24 euros or just under US $30.

    I love that I can discover new destinations as well as new fashion finds! Luckily I am practicing some self control and not buying every color cause I have already reached max capacity in my luggage…20120710-113104.jpg20120710-113140.jpg

  • Going for the Bronze!

    July 9, 2012

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    Sitges, Spain…An easy 30 minute train ride from Barcelona, I have reached an oasis! This sleepy town by day turns into a party spot by night. The afternoon is spent either lounging at a cafe or catching some rays along the long beach, as the siesta is a long 1:30-4:30 and no stores are open!

    I am enjoying a lazy day seaside trying to work on my tan and get some relaxing in. The beach has a plethora of loungers and umbrellas for rent, thankfully…I am feeling a bit self conscious as the men are all bronze, fit, and swarthy in their speedos. Well, a guy can only dream…and I guess I better cut down on those tasty croquettes and fried artichokes! Luckily, the beach has a beautiful wide boardwalk for me to get alot of walking in, if I can’t have the six-pack, at least I can have the calves!

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