TRAVEL

Out of Africa: Safari Packing Inspiration

August 1, 2017

Hannah Shelby: Hotel Lust: andBeyond Kichwa Tembo

One month from today we’re heading to the Masai Mara in Kenya for our first Safari. I remember watching The Lion King when I was just a little girl and being completely captivated. The opening scene where all the animals come together at Pride Rock for the reveal of baby Simba gives me goosebumps to this day. And I would be lying if I didn’t admit our upcoming trip to the Mara still doesn’t feel real. Going on Safari has always felt a little bit out of reach, and it wasn’t until doing some pretty serious research that all the pieces fell into place. Which just goes to show that nothing is impossible if you really put your mind to it!

The Mara has a pretty temperate climate, with September falling at the end of the dry “winter” season. Early morning game drives begin a bit chilly and quickly warm up with the arrival of the sun. Daytime sees temperature suitable for shorts and even a swim or sun lounging in your time between game drives. And once the sun sets and night falls over the savanna, a bit of a chill returns to the air. Easy natural fabrics in neutral colors work great for layering during the day. And I love a good midi wrap dress with sleeves for temperatures that aren’t quite warm but aren’t quite cold either—perfect for enjoying those iconic safari sundowner cocktails. Continue Reading…

TRAVEL

Hotel Lust: F E L L A Villas

June 28, 2017

It’s not hard to find reasons to visit Bali. And villas like this certainly make that decision a no-brainer. The open-style layout has everything you need to come home to after a day exploring the surrounding village of Canggu. With 3 bedrooms and a beautiful outdoor pool, F E L L A is perfect for a romantic retreat, entire families, or even a solo adventure.

“Inspired by travel, architecture and art, F E L L A. V I L L A S was created by the founders of the iconic Australian swimwear brand F E L L A. It is a thoughtfully designed modern villa with influences from South America and the exotic Asian East. Collaborating with the designers favorite artists, photographers and homewares, the villa is situated in the popular area of Canggu, Bali.

Light and airy, the villa resides down a quiet gang (street) only a few minutes bike ride from Tugu and Echo Beaches as well as popular bars and restaurants in Canggu. Equipped with full kitchen facilities, three queen sized bedrooms with ensuites, and indoor lounge room with tv, fibre optic internet and Bose speakers. Garden waterholes include a large swimming pool and fish pond to relax by as our maid cooks a delicious breakfast in-house each morning.”

Visit the F E L L A Villas website for more info and to book. Continue Reading…

MEXICO, TRAVEL

Hacienda Sac Chich + Casa Sisal: Opposites Attract in the Yucatan

June 1, 2017

HANNAH SHELBY: Hacienda Sac Chich and Casa Sisal

Mexico will always have a piece of my heart, and it’s properties like this that continue to ignite that love affair over and over again. If you relish in old world charm but are a sucker for modern design, this oasis in beautiful Merida, Mexico might just be for you. Located 45 mins south of the city on adjacent properties, you’ll find Hacienda Sac Chich and Casa Sisal, opposite in design, but equal in allure. Hacienda Sac Chich with its colonial roots, and Casa Sisal, a modern architectural masterpiece, can be rented together or separately, making them a perfect location for a family retreat, wedding, event, or simply a romantic getaway for two. For more information and bookings, visit Urbano Rentals.

From Urbano Rentals:

“One could easily drive past the Hacienda Sac Chich without ever knowing you had bypassed one of the most magical gardens and enchanting properties in the Yucatan, as only the 85 foot chimney is visible from the street. The previous owner of the hacienda was a botanist who had a plant nursery with many acres of gardens. Josephina Larrain, a landscape architect, bought the Casa de Maquinas and began to renovate the property and improve the gardens. The current owners have lovingly restored the hacienda and renovated the buildings with the help of Josephina and her husband Architect Salvador Reyes Rios.

Casa de Maquinas has two houses that are available for rental, the Casa Vieja and Casa Nueva. These houses share a garden and the pool. They are joined by an arcaded loggia living area surrounded by large lily ponds. This common living area has a dining table for 10, a fireplace and two lounge areas with comfortable sofas and chairs. On the roof is a star gazing platform and seating. The perfect location to see the sunset and enjoy the jungle breeze in the evenings.”

CHARLESTON, TRAVEL, FASHION

Spring in Charleston

April 24, 2017

A spring-time getaway to the south has been on my bucket list ever since my romantic side fell in love with The Notebook (albeit mostly Ryan Gosling IN The Notebook, but wasn’t that all of us?) Between the beautiful old buildings, delicious food, and warm weather, it felt like the perfect location to celebrate our 1 year anniversary—a long weekend filled with all that Charleston and its famous southern hospitality has to offer.

While we weren’t able to stay at Zero George Street since our dog Louis joined us on the trip, we did have a chance to explore the hotel and spend some time there. Nicely situated off the more touristy Meeting and King Streets, but still close enough to walk to all the main sites of downtown, Zero George is a group of perfectly appointed buildings dating back to 1804 restored in the most charming manner. Immaculately landscaped courtyards, sprawling porches, award-winning cuisine, and even a cooking school, Zero George really has it all. And not to mention complimentary bikes available for use, which are the perfect way to explore the city.

CHARLESTON, TRAVEL, FASHION

Charleston Packing Guide

April 6, 2017

We’re heading to Charleston next week to celebrate our 1 year anniversary (and I’ve no idea how a year has gone by since our wedding in Tulum.) Between the colorful downtown, beautiful beaches, historic plantations and delicious southern cuisine, it’s no wonder Charleston has been voted CN Traveler’s Best US City for 3 years in a row. There’s just something about the colors of the buildings and the romantic atmosphere that has a way of bringing out one’s gingham and ruffle loving self. So in celebration of finally getting dressed without the addition of winter coats and boots, I’ve put together a few outfit inspirations for some of the best activities Charleston has to offer.

EXPLORING DOWNTOWN