Tag Archives: travel

  • Gone Fishin’!

    July 15, 2012

    1 Comment

    Gythios (Gythion),Greece…Anchored at this tiny port in the Peloponnesos, today is a scorcher with temps above 100 degrees!

    This sleepy fishing village seems like what Greece was like years before mass tourism. A bit worn and shabby, the waterfront is full of stucco buildings set again a hilly terrain. The harbor is littered with fishing boats that earlier brought in today’s fresh catch…I loved seeing the fresh caught Octopus left hanging in the sun to dry like a load of newly washed laundry.

    You know you are in Greece by the crystal clear waters that are like an aquarium surrounding you. This isn’t a place of big sights, pulsing nightlife, or travel guide must-sees; rather a glimpse into the simple life…
    relaxing at a waterfront cafe, listening to stories from locals, and soaking in the slow pace. Of course, indulging in the freshest of seafood and delicious Greek delicacies is a must.

    I happened to stumble into the gallery of a local artist along the waterfront…I enjoyed his enthusiasm for this place and he gave me a few pointers…he told me the beach at Skoutari is one of the most lovely in the Peloponnesos.

    It’s been proven time and again this trip, that there are design moments to be found in unexpected places…a cafe along this stunning waterfront had the most interesting perforated “Tyvek” like tarp used for shade…Now where can I get one for my roof deck?

    For now, I am chillin’ like the locals until tomorrow, which will find me ready to soak it all in at a new spot!

    20120715-164523.jpg

    20120715-165101.jpg

    20120715-165252.jpg

    20120715-165732.jpg

    20120715-171357.jpg

  • Making Lemonade out of Lemons!

    July 13, 2012

    1 Comment

    Piraeus, Greece…My Friday the 13th worries were unfounded, I arrived easily in Athens (with the help of several episodes of “The Real Housewives of New York” downloaded on my IPad).

    The challenges started once I got to Athens…I had done research and learned that there was an easy bus right from the airport to the port town of Piraeus. I chose to stay near the port as I would set off on the ship tomorrow and why go through the commute from Athens!

    I walked out of the airport to stifling heat. Athens was suffering under days of 100 degree weather! The bus was easy to find, but my vision of a coach style bus were shattered when I saw what looked like a city transit bus…ok, well here we go! At 5 euros, a deal was had and I settled into my seat. Then the bus sat baking in the heat filling to standing room only capacity with a mix of tourists and airport workers. As we took off on the hour and half journey to Piraeus, the bus barely cooled but filled with the stench of deodorant unaware riders! At this point, I was thinking “what did I do?” Finally arriving in Piraeus after what seemed an eternity, the town was chaotic and I was thoroughly lost, sweating, and starting to fear that I too took on the odor that I just inhaled for way too long! This is starting off on a bad foot and I was feeling dejected!

    I arrived at my hotel and the day turned around…I booked the Phidias Piraeus Hotel, which I still can’t believe was only 35 euros ($43)! A totally modern designed hotel that was pristine and very chic! Wow, what a great place to layover if you have a ferry or cruise the next day!

    There was more to this town than the bustling port…fruit trees lined the streets, great shopping galore, and the most charming Marina Zea, the antithesis to the main port area. Lined with waterfront cafes looking out out at the marina filled with gorgeous boats, this area was the perfect end to a roller coaster day. Sitting outside enjoying a marvelous Souvlaki dinner, I watched the sunset over the harbor and knew i turned this day around and a big smile came over my face! I was reminded yet again, how “sweet it is” to travel the world!

    20120713-222303.jpg

    20120713-222505.jpg

    20120713-222614.jpg

    20120713-222711.jpg

  • Getting Lucky!?!

    July 13, 2012

    3 Comments

    En route to Athens!

    I didn’t realize today was Friday the 13th and I am flying on what is considered an unlucky day! I wonder why we consider this day unlucky?

    In Europe, they don’t have this superstition…maybe I’ll be ok!
    It seems 13 is following me this trip or has some hidden meaning that I am yet to find out; in Barcelona, I was in room 13, now I am flying on Friday the 13th, and the hotel I was just in had 13 in the address…

    Putting the date out of my mind, I am sitting in the Barcelona airport and enjoying people watching and fashion critiquing! It’s amazing how fashion is so universal. Certain clothing trends just click worldwide..this is the summer of NEON everything,TOM’s shoes, guys wearing slouchy tanks, and everyone in colored skinny shorts/pants…definitely less fedora hats, cargo shorts, and maxi dresses that are suddenly seeming so last year! It’s like the 80’s really made a comeback minus the shoulder pads. My youth re-lived! I do love how European guys really embrace fashion and make it seem so effortless…

    Well off I go, hoping for continued good luck!

    20120713-112156.jpg

  • The Extra Ordinary!

    July 12, 2012

    Leave a comment

    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!

    20120712-131228.jpg

    20120712-131317.jpg

    20120712-131350.jpg

    20120712-131421.jpg

    20120712-131449.jpg

  • My own Poseidon adventure!

    July 11, 2012

    Leave a comment

    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”!

    20120711-154835.jpg

    20120711-154908.jpg

    20120711-154943.jpg

  • Going Au Naturale!

    July 11, 2012

    1 Comment

    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”!

    20120711-125912.jpg

    20120711-130010.jpg

  • Going for the Bronze!

    July 9, 2012

    Leave a comment

    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!

    20120709-162049.jpg

  • Lessons learnt the hard way!

    July 9, 2012

    Leave a comment

    I am so ready for a few days of chill beach time! I have learned this important trick the hard way when planning any trip…I always intersperse some chill time amongst all the sightseeing! I know people forget that a vacation is just that and they make this mistake and their trip becomes more like work than the fun it should be. I see tourists who are constantly on a treadmill of sightseeing all they can cram into the trip…DON’T DO IT!

    Oh and don’t overpack! I am guilty as charged! I am the worst and I am so sorry because I am lugging 2 roller bags up and down train station steps, along cobblestone streets, into small elevators, etc…I wanna look cute but I needed some serious editing! After years of doing this, my love of fashion always wins out over practicality and I bring all these outfits and shoes that I never wear…

    I have discovered those vacuum travel bags that allow you to roll out the excess air, sorta vacuum packing your clothes…they help alot with bulky items. You can buy them at the Container Store. I never travel without a power strip; there are never enough outlets in rooms and this allows you to use 1 adaptor in order to plug everything into.

    Luckily, Europe is very WiFi connected…but TURN OFF your roaming! It’s crazy expensive!! I travel with an unlocked IPhone and buy prepaid data micro sim cards in each country that allow me to call and stay connected! The ability to use google maps to get directions and navigate in new locales really comes in handy…

    Ok, time to drag these bags again…Sitges here I come!

  • Holy bat cave, Robin!

    July 8, 2012

    1 Comment

    Montserrat, Spain…today I embarked on a quick day trip out of Barcelona! After a late night hitting the local clubs and bars in Eixample district of Barcelona, I thought a different view of Catalonia was in order.

    Perched high in the cavernous mountain side, the Monastery housing the scuplture of the black Madonna behind its altar seems detached from the rest of the world, set in an absolutely rugged yet breathtaking spot!

    Getting here isn’t as simple as it seems…again I had to navigate the train system, this time in the pickpocket heaven of Espanya station! Clutching my man-purse like an old lady, I set out! No one was messing with me…after the hourlong train ride, it’s time for the 5 minute cable car ride to the top…Geez, adventures never cease on this trip, I guess I am determined to ignore all my comfort zones…

    Standing the whole ride in what is essentially a yellow basket, the view is fantastic but the ride is not for the faint of heart! Again I seem to have landed in another ancient world…how did this place get here in the middle of stalactite looking terrain?

    One more ride up, this time on the funicular to Sant Joan in order to view it all from an even higher vantage point…what other means of transport shall I employ today?

    Anyway, this isn’t a religious outing…it’s a marvel of both nature and the will of man to build amongst it! Who even knew this existed, obscure places like this reaffirm my love of travel. Remember, much of any journey lies in discovery of places you never knew you wanted to visit!

    20120708-161658.jpg

    20120708-161746.jpg

    20120708-161835.jpg

    20120708-161910.jpg

    20120708-162004.jpg

  • Doing my best Hemingway!

    July 7, 2012

    5 Comments

    The Encierro (running of the bulls) in Pamplona…

    Every once in awhile you have a “moment”, today I had one of those “moments”! I didn’t love waking up at 5 am and I definitely didn’t look cute in my white outfit with red scarf & sash (maybe I needed to channel Ernest Hemingway with his signature Panama hat!) but it was totally worth it.

    Arriving in the center of town at 6 am to find it already mobbed with bull-run eager participants, I needed to hurry before they starting closing the path to my balcony. I arrived and was greeted by the apartment owner and shown to my viewing spot only to discover I scored this balcony all to myself, maybe this was turning out to be a VIP trip afterall!

    I was one floor above the Calle Estefeta right where the action happens and the location was directly after the first treacherous curve of the route in which the bulls head towards the red doors of the stadium for tonight’s bull fight. I stood there in awe, watching the runners stretch and get ready to outrun the bulls while shopkeepers board up their storefronts.

    The crowd chants and sings, the street is swept for trash, and the formalities begin; Runners are pushed back by police, men in green polos arrive carrying sticks they use to direct the bulls if needed, local politicians walk and inspect the route, and this collective community in white & red is ready and anxious!

    At 8 am, you hear the gunshot and they are off! In a flash, the bulls appear and you see men tumbling, runners literally loosing their espadrilles, and even a few unlucky souls getting run over!
    I see one poor guy ‘s t shirt is literally speared by the bulls horn and he is being pulled the entire way into the stadium!

    What a rush! What a thrill! What a total “moment” I will never forget!

    20120707-114431.jpg

    20120707-114458.jpg

    20120707-114523.jpg

    20120707-114615.jpg

    20120707-114548.jpg

    20120707-114718.jpg