An Oasis in Marrakesh: Ryad Dyor

The hot, marigold sun diffused softly through the glass lanterns hanging in the storefront windows. A warm wind rippled through, drying the freshly-dyed linen scarves draped on ropes above the courtyard. Large baskets of mustard, magenta, and royal blue spools of cashmere and wool beg to be felt and admired. The smell of exotic spices and sweet fruits waft from the carts, haphazardly drawn throughout the square. The sound of Arabic music crackles through an old Panasonic radio, somehow matching the rhythm of a skinny horses hooves against the broken cobblestone. This overwhelming play on the senses is just another day at high noon in the markets and souks of Jemaa el-Fna in Marrakech. 

After a considerable amount of time navigating my way through the labyrinth of alleyways, I finally came to a mystical, Tiffany-blue door. This beautifully bright and inviting entrance may have seemed out of place in the dusty back alleys of the medina, but I knew that just beyond it sat the oasis I would call home for the next few days.  

Stepping into the Ryad Dyor, a harmonious blend of fresh mint and warm argan oil infused the air, welcoming my tired feet and calming my busy mind. I felt as though I was escaping to a familiar hideaway, as I casually nibbled on dates and sipped tea from a beautiful silver pot. I listened as the host explained the intricacies and nuances of my new home away from home. While the riad itself sits in the heart of the medina, it is able to maintain it’s own ambiance of serenity away from the hustle and bustle of the market streets just outside the door. 

As an authentic Moroccan “riad”, the Ryad Dyor provides its guests with an intimate and private living experience that is as refined as it is comfortable. The name “riad” itself comes from the Arabic word for “garden”, which the Dyor takes pride in with its wide breezy windows and verandas that look out into an open-air sanctuary. After a long day haggling for goods at the market, I would slip into the plunge pool with a glass of rose and allow my tension to slip away. 

Each of the seven guest rooms and suites provide individual havens for anyone looking to retreat into an uninterrupted peace of mind. The rooms themselves are clad in toasted colors that are supplemented by soft stone, wood accents, and french moroccan textiles. Reserve a home-cooked dinner of tagine in the garden, and be sure to take your breakfast in the morning on the beautiful rooftop deck under the shade of the palm trees. 

Remember to book these riads ahead of time as they tend to sell out due to small nature of the bed and breakfasts. Marrakech is a magical, wondrous place full of hidden treasures and the Ryad Dyor is absolutely no exception.

Where to Stay Spotlight: Under the Stars Luxury Apartments

“Don’t you ever get tired of it?” 

The worried faces of those who have been overwhelmed by being away from home due to long stints of travel, stare at me in disbelief as I explain my answer. Much to everyones surprise, traveling doesn’t get exhausting to me, and I don’t crave “my normal life/routine” after weeks on the road. This is not because I’m disconnected or completely delusional, it’s is because I have mastered the art of being away from home. 

There are two ways I avoid the headache of being on the road. The first is to try and infiltrate normal routines into my travel days that most people wouldn’t do. Trying to engage in “normal” activities which could range from joining a neighborhood yoga class to picking up a few things at a local farmers market. The second method to ease always being away, is to try and stay in places that are comfortable, convenient, and essentially feel like home. 

Under the Stars Luxury Apartments, in Boracay Philippines was one of those places for me. A comfortable living space that felt private, personalized, and not overly stuffy. The modern amenities, sprawling kitchen, and chic outdoor balcony overlooking the beach create a perfect landing pad for individuals, families, and couples alike. 

From the ceiling drawn rain showers to the in-bed televisions, there are plenty of thoughtful details and elements to pamper even the pickiest of travelers. Yet the location is slightly off the beaten path and really allows you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy parts of Boracay. 

There’s also an amazing option to hire a chef to take the feeling of home one step further, really easing your mind while taking the pressure off. There is something about home-cooked meals shared across a dining room table that helps bring continuity and familiarity to a vacation on a far off island. Under the Stars is the type of accommodation that allows you to work, live, and relax in an environment that truly feels like a home away from home.

Where to Stay Spotlight: Mandala Spa Boracay

Boracay has recently got a bad rap. Locals with the common complaint of overcrowding from tourists, mom and pop bakeries replaced by McDonalds and Pizza Huts, and beautiful beaches speckled with liter from last night’s party. All of these signs force you to believe this island may have already seen it’s prime. Then you arrive at the Mandala Spa and Resort on the south side of the island, and everything starts to feel right again. 

This lush and luxurious oasis with a health-conscious vibe is nestled in the hilltop of the up-and-coming Station 3. From the digital detox garden bungalows to the spa-like pool villas with sweeping views of the pristine beaches below, this family run resort is equally as intimate as it is comfortable. 

Mornings brought in with fresh squeezed mango juice, quinoa pancakes, and homemade granola made me question if I somehow transported to a boutique hotel in West Hollywood. The well-appointed spa, daily yoga in the expansive onsite studio, and friendly staff create the perfect escape from all the hustle and bustle of busy streets below. 

We lounged by the infinity pool, played our favorite tunes, ate healthy snacks, did yoga, got massages, and finally felt like we were feeling and seeing the simple magic that this island has to offer. From the warm smiles from the happy staff, to the way the garden lights wink at your on the way to your room… this resort is more than just a hotel, it’s a fully immersive escape.

Where to Stay Spotlight: Zanzibar

After 38 grueling hours in transit, I stood in a stifling hotbox that smelled of musty sweat and stale armpits. With no air-conditioning or even ventilation to speak of, I stood miserably in line at the disaster, death-trap that was Zanzibar customs. 

My trip was put together rather last minute, and the travel agency who booked everything failed to mention the visa-upon-entry process. Which consisted of looking at a long list of countries taped to a wall, finding your countries relative fee, only to then stand in another line sandwiched between large, sweaty, aggressive tourists, and eventually pay by visa or cash for your entry visa. 

Once you have your receipt, you wait in another ridiculously slow moving line to drop off your passport, scan your fingertips, and give them your information. After this ENTIRELY exhausting process is complete… you sweat out any and all possible toxins in your body and mindlessly wait in the same sauna-of-a-room for the attendant to eventually yell “United States, Jordyn”. (My whole process was made even more dramatic by the fact that I’d somehow left my only visa credit card at Paul’s bakery back in the airport in Dubai and had no cash, forcing me to haphazardly sneak through customs to get cash from my driver). 

Needless to say this process was the biggest test for any sane persons patience and built up the perfect amount of angst, stress, and frustration before my journey to the resort. After a 45-minute journey across the island we arrived at Baraza Resort and everything in my body and mind began to melt away. With the chilled lemongrass towel over my face, I took in my first deep breath and allowed myself to willingly forget all that had just transpired. I checked into my two-bedroom villa, drank hibiscus tea, and thought about literally nothing else the rest of the afternoon. 

The Baraza Resort and Spa is an absolute oasis located along the Bwejuu – Paje beach and is everything you could ever want in an island getaway. It is this bright, sensual blend of French Moroccan decor with fresh tropical accents. Warm smiles of helpful staff welcome any question or need you may conjure up during your stay. 

This five-star resort also happens to be all-inclusive… where breakfast, lunch, and dinner is as thoughtfully prepared as it is delicious. With beautiful cocktail hours in the evenings, guests can chat and mingle as the live band serenades them under the stars. 

Each morning at sunrise, I would walk to the beach to take in the ever-changing pastel sky. I would follow it up with a morning run, swim, or kayaking session just off the coast. With help from the concierge, I organized a trip to Stone Town, swam with dolphins in the wild, and visited a local spice farm run entirely by locals who live on the property.

I walked down the beach to the sister resort Breezes and signed up to scuba dive for the day. After the reef dive, the instructor offered to take me on his moped to watch a local soccer match then we cruised over to a locals-only beach and drank Kilimanjaro beer as the sun set. 

Zanzibar is a tropical diamond in the rough. The island is rich in culture… from the music, cuisine, and local lifestyle to the strength and perseverance of a country that has overcome a difficult past. 

Where to Stay Spotlight: Koh Chang

After a short 45 minute flight from Bangkok, I landed in what felt like a Thai version of Disneyland. Exiting the plane at the bite-size airport in Trat, I boarded the cutest little tram-like vehicle and rode in the open air, past fresh hedges cut into the shapes of elephants. The dream.

I grabbed my bags and got into a taxi. We drove for about five minutes then joined the queue for the frequent ferry over to Koh Chang. Once on the ferry, I got out van, stretched my legs, and took in the views with a fresh bottle of Chang local beer. We arrived on Koh Chang 20 minutes later and drove up through the mountainous terrain to the tropical oasis of Emerald Cove. 

This beautiful, 165 room, 4-star resort is airy, elegant and has absolutely everything you need to relax and fade away on a tropical vacation without totally emptying your wallet. After a chilled lemongrass and jasmine towel to the face and a much needed welcome drink, I was fully checked into my ocean-view suite. The staff was extremely helpful with any request I could drum up and had plenty of recommendations for ways to spend the day. 

The resort is located on Klong Prao Beach, where the tide is rather high (there are certain times of the day where the water comes right up to the wall barrier) but the water is warm and clean. Breakfast is an incredible spread of fresh tropical fruits, pastries, and thai specialities as well as fresh juices and an omelette station. I spent my days basking in the sun, sipping on fruity drinks and taking a dip in their amazing 165-foot infinity pool. 

Pastel sunsets brought in by live music, happy hour drinks, and beach barbecues made me fully appreciate my annual vacation before the holidays. The spa was well appointed with plenty of staff on hand to offer traditional Thai massages for a mind-blowing bargain, only possible in South East Asia. The front desk also helped me with everything from booking a private day trip on a speedboat to sharing their favorite local dive bar on the island. 

Emerald Cove has all the modern amenities and comforts of home, in a modern and sophisticated atmosphere, a truly rare find on the remote and casual island of Koh Chang. From the rooms to the food, massages to the daily ringing bell of happy hour… Emerald Cove was everything I needed in a beach resort and more. It’s the perfect place to call home while discovering all that Elephant Island has to offer. 

Rates start at $120/per night for standard room.

Where to Stay Spotlight: Mexico City

When I slowly pulled up to 90 Edgar Allan Poe in Polanco, I began to notice the immaculate greenery, beautiful dark iron detailing, and the grand Spanish revival architecture that made up the Pug Seal Boutique Hotel in Mexico City. 

As I entered through the iron gate, I suddenly felt as though I were returning home to my own private mansion for the night. As my bags were swiftly sorted, I sipped a glass of fresh Horchata and watched as the bustling and chaotic city came to a calm, and relaxing silence. 

This incredible boutique hotel is an absolute must-stay when visiting Mexico City. It is located inPolanco, which is the equivalent to Soho or Fifth Avenue in New York. There is tons of shopping, chic restaurants, and museums all within walking distance of the B&B. 

The breakfast was also amazing, I had a spinach omelette over beans and a side of pancakes with Mexican coffee. From the tastefully curated interior design to the modern nuances like Apple TV and USB charging stations, I was in absolute heaven staying here. I rented a standard double room for $175, but upgraded to the penthouse suite when I arrived, as it was only $95 more and was easily three times the size. The pricing is extremely moderate for the style and service, and the location couldn’t get any better. 

The next time I’m in Mexico City… you’ll know where to find me. 

Xx

Vagabond Diaries: A Complete Guide to Positano

With the windows down and the sun flooding the car, I sat on the edge of my seat like a kid on christmas morning. As we rounded the corner of what felt like a grand prix race track, the cliffside city from my dreams came into view. Cascading citrus colored buildings draped in greenery and bright flowers popped against the cerulean sea below.

The charming city of Positano has been on my bucket list ever since I saw Diane Lane escape there in Under the Tuscan Sun. After doing hours of research on how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and where to eat… I’ve decided to share my findings with you in this detailed travel guide on Positano. I hope you enjoy it enough to visit and see this wonderful place for yourself!  

Getting There:

You can get to Positano a few ways but the closest city with mass transport is Naples. So you can fly or take the train into Naples and then from there you have a few choices.

Via Shuttle- This is probably the most cost effective way to arrive, I did it on the way there and it was a dream. I booked a reservation through Positano Shuttle and the driver was waiting for me when I arrived at Napoli airport. Typically you share a large Mercedes van with other passengers around the same time, but my reservation was at an odd time in the day and they had a reverse pickup in Positano, so I paid €46 for a private van! Not saying this will happen every time but even sharing the ride to Positano for €30-€50 is amazing and a great option.

Via Taxi- For those with a large group or ones who don't want a shared ride there are taxis available at both the train station and the airport that will take you to Positano. You can also prearrange a private transfer through numerous companies with cost ranging between €90-€200 depending on the type of vehicle/timing and traffic.

Rent a car- For those who want to take their time on the way there, rent a car. The road from Sorrento to Salerno is called “the road with 1000 bends” and is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site with tons of places to pullover and take in the beautiful views/snap a few breathtaking photos of the coastline. Renting an awesome car and taking on those hairpin turns like James Bond would've, is an amazing way to start a trip to the Amalfi Coast. Having a car is also nice, as it also gives you the flexibility to explore neighboring towns like Praiano, Amalfi, and Ravello as day trips. I would've honestly done this option, but I'm a classic American who can't drive a stick shift, so my dreams of flooring it around the coast was sadly short lived.

Via Ferry- I found the ferry system to be a bit cumbersome to be honest, as there is no direct route from Naples to Positano. You have to first get a boat to Sorrento and then another boat onward to Positano. But this is a good option if you are looking to avoid traffic, want to see the coast by sea, or would get super carsick on the windy SS163 road. Ferries are very limited from September until late April, with a different summer schedule published every year in May.

Via Helicopter- for those wondering if they can just chopper to the coast, this is also a bit more complicated than it seems. There are options to take a helicopter transfer for those so inclined, however it will cost you a pretty penny and isn't a direct transfer as it’s impossible to land in Positano due to steep landscape and lack of landing space.I called a few places just to get an estimate… Rides go from Naples to Sorrento and then you’d have to arrange a car or boat from there. Prices vary depending on the company but are typically around €1000-1500.
 

What to Do:

Hike to a More Secluded Beach- There is a small but sweet little hike you can take from the main beach in Positano, up and over to another small cove beach that is virtually untouched. There is also a less crowded beach a bit further down with open loungers and a shack bar serving cold beers, mixed drinks, and small bites. You can find the small stone steps that lead to the path on the furthest rock wall all the way to the right, when on the main Positano beach (facing the ocean). Hike up the small stairs and up to a path that takes you around to the other side of the cliffs, I loved laying out here on my own knowing crowds of tourists were just around the cliffside.

Cooking Class at Buca di Bacco- I signed up for a cooking class at the esteemed Buca Di Bacco, as the forecast was meant to be stormy, and it ended up being one of my favorite memories from the trip. It was an absolutely fabulous experience. You arrive to the restaurant's large, open kitchen around 3:30pm and are given a glass of champagne and a goodie bag which includes your apron, cookbook, and gnocchi board. From there you are magically transformed into a proper italian chef (or at least I like to think so hehe) learning to make the classics like fresh pesto gnocchi, eggplant parmigiano, and individual margarita pizzas. The class hosts between 8-12 people, and has one master chef walking you through the recipes and two sous chefs that help expedite the small tedious requirements (like bringing the water to a boil, and putting pizzas in the oven). Once you’ve finished preparing this crazy large meal your entire class sits together on the patio of the restaurant and enjoys the day’s accomplishments over bottles of red and white wine. It is honestly so fun yet informative and is a great way to spend the afternoon. Prices for the cooking class is €120/pp and includes all the food, drinks, and gift bag. I compared this class to a couple others I saw in Positano, including one at Max Restaurant and this one was still the best class I could find.     

Day Trip to Capri- With so much to see and explore, a day trip to Capri is absolutely necessary if you are staying in Positano for longer than three days. There are large highspeed ferries that go to Capri from Positano almost every 30 minutes in the summertime and allow travelers to spend the day how they please. I personally recommend a guided small group tour by boat as they take you to all the sites including Tiberios Jump, the natural arch, the white, green and blue grotto, Villa Malaparte, the lighthouse, Marina Grande and more. This is nice as you don’t have to think or organize how to get to and from the grottos once on land. Another option is to organize a private boat for hire to explore the wonderful island of Capri at your own pace. It’s all just a matter of preference and budget.   

Take in the Views with a Sunset Cruise- I indulged in this excursion on my last night in Positano. I was so sad to be leaving and wanted one last memory of the coastline during the golden hour. So I booked a private sunset cruise and was absolutely delighted at how spectacular the views were. They drive you around the various small islands and coves, and explain small facts about the castles, buildings, and geography. Although I was by myself for this one, the setting is extremely romantic and would be an amazing thing to do as a couple. They offer beer, wine, and prosecco on board as well as small snacks.

Drinks at L’Africana- This infamous cave club is a great place to checkout on a Friday or Saturday night. Arrive right before the sunset and take in the surrounds with a cheeky cocktail and be prepared to dance the night away. This club opened in 1960, and is known for its great music nights. It is located in Praiano, which is a 20 minute drive from Positano, however the club does offer a shuttle service, and there is also a small marina, so it’s also possible to arrive by boat (I got invited to go to L’Africana by boat as my sunset cruise was wrapping up, so cool!).   

Day Trip to Ravello- Nestled up high above the Neapolitan Riviera, Ravello is a romantic oasis filled with charm and glamour. The views of the mediterranean coastline from this stunning vantage point strictly can’t be beat. Wander aimlessly through the gardens, terraces, and pergolas of a city visited by Jackie O, Greta Garbo, and Tennessee Williams. To get there take a short ferry (in summer season) to Amalfi and then a bus up, 20-30 mins depending on traffic, to Ravello.

Where to Eat:

Casa E Bottega- This charming designer shop and eatery serves up organic local foods perfect for a light lunch or snack in between the overloading of Italian carbohydrates. This cafe offers great vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options which can be far and few between in the smaller cities in Italy. Whether you opt for a fresh squeezed juice or a glass of rose, the light and bright interior, combined with the to-die-for healthy options, Casa E Bottega is a must-visit.  

Champagne and Oysters at Le Sirenuse- The Champagne and Oyster bar at Le Sirenuse is a great place to sip on some bubbly while watching the sunset. Take in the sweeping views of the city while you munch on tartar, olives, and oysters. The best time to go would be during “happy hour timing” however at this classy establishment, you unfortunately won’t be finding ANY happy hour pricing... yet that view is worth every penny.

Da Vincenzo- This was where I went to eat the first night in town and I absolutely loved it. There was quite a long wait, but was made to feel much shorter thanks to the complimentary prosecco they give out to guests waiting for a table. Once seated, I ordered the zucchini blossoms as a starter and then indulged in their Tubetti ai Totani (a tubular pasta in what was similar to a vodka sauce) it was the best introduction to the cities rich cuisine. I also feasted my eyes on other tables orders of large lobsters, seafood pasta dishes, and fresh fish which also looked very delicious. Try and wait it out for an outside table to watch the cliffside light up once the sun has set. Truly magical!

Chez Black- This is a great beachfront restaurant that requires a reservations in advance. Chez Black is know for their rich pastas with “Positanese” sauces, their fish soup, quality meats, wide wine selection, and delicious desserts. It is also a great place to people watch during lunchtime, as it runs right up against the beach. Open for both lunch and dinner.

Gelato at Caffe Positano- Caffe Positano was my favorite place to get gelato, because the flavors were limited but very fresh and the two scoops came with a small cone on top! I loved it. I stopped here every time I walked from Casa Teresa to the beach, which was often. Thank goodness this city has so many steps to counteract my constant intake of gelato.
 

Where to Stay:

Casa Teresa- My first two nights in Positano, I rented a quaint apartment with a private balcony at the sweet and understated Casa Teresa. This family run place was in a great location, an easy 15 minute walk down the hills to the main beach. They have a beautiful terrace covered in potted plants with a beautiful view and the walls of the casa are covered in colorful flowers. The apartment was reasonably priced given Positano’s expensive nature, and there was a solid complimentary breakfast spread each morning. If you are on a slightly tighter budget, a bed and breakfast like Casa Teresa is the perfect way to still have the view and the charm without the pricetag.

Eden Roc- My last two nights I spent at Eden Roc Hotel and it was beyond stunning. I stayed in a Junior Suite that had a very large terrace that overlooked the entire bay, complete with a jacuzzi tub and whirlpool bath. The location was slightly closer, with the main beach only a 10 minute walk from the other direction. The food at the hotel was great, this was where I had that scrumptious prosciutto and melon, and bolognese with a view (pictured above). The rooftop pool was a bit dated, so I ended up just laying out on my private terrace. Overall, the customer service was amazing, they were the ones who helped me arrange my private sunset cruise, and the rooms were spacious and comfortable. This is a great option if you are a sucker for a mind blowing view with a jacuzzi on a terrace, I mean come on… what’s not to love. The slight jump in price was definitely worth it for a stay at the Eden Roc Positano.    

Le Sirenuse- If your budget allows, this place is the absolute cream of the crop in terms of where to stay in Positano. Think of walking in through the large white doors into an open lobby, where a white-gloved butler hands you a glass lemonade as you checkin, and the mediterranean breeze is blowing in from the sea through the open french doors all around you… yes… now you are starting to get the feeling of Le Sirenuse. There are three options for dining within the hotel: La Sponda, which is an incredible Michelin-starred restaurant serving up local recipes and ingredients. The Champagne Bar & Grill which is what I mentioned earlier for oysters at sunset, and Franco’s which is a bar on an al fresco terrace serving up specialty cocktails and wine. Getting a room at this swanky hotel is quite challenging, as it is extremely popular for honeymooners and couples, and is typically booked almost a year or more in advance.

A Jungle Oasis in Seminyak

By the time my feet hit the warm water of my spiced citrus bath, I had been traveling by planes, trains, and automobiles for over eight hours. With my morning commute starting in the chaotic city of Bangkok, it’s no wonder my body and mind were craving a secluded, spa-like oasis in the heart of bohemian Seminyak. Twenty minutes after our driver picked us up from the Denpasar airport, we turned down the cobblestone path lined with bamboo that led to The Amala Resort. 

After checking in at the front desk, we were taken to the spa area and given a complimentary massage, while our bags were being brought to the room. These small thoughtful nuances, defined what a luxurious resort should embody. Whether it was the daily changeout of local tropical fruit in the morning, with information and even sometimes eating instructions, to the wide assortment of oils, soaps, lotions, and cremes available in endless supply to enjoy both in the private outdoor plunge bath or the steam shower (both conveniently located within the complex of our Spa Villa) was merely the icing on the cake. 

Being a yoga enthusiast, I was ecstatic to learn that the resort held a 90 minute yoga session every morning at 8am. After stretching, bending, and holding poses in the rising morning heat, I was always fully ready to indulge in the inclusive breakfast spread. I opted for one juice and one smoothie everyday, as I find it helps me fight any bugs I may have caught on the plane, jet lag, while giving me energy and hydration for the day. I also varied my selections each morning ranging from avo eggs on toast to organic yogurt muesli and fresh fruit. 

After these filling meals we would spend the days lounging on the sun beds, going for a skinny dip in our private plunge pool, or sneaking away on our rented scooter to catch the sunset on the beach. No matter what was on the daily agenda, coming back to our own little stand alone safe haven was one of the most refreshing feelings when traveling so far away from the comforts of home. 

This was the first stop during our 12 day stay in Bali, and it started the trip off on just the right note. With an incredibly attentive staff, helping us organize not only our scooter rental, and spa appointments but also a few beach excursions, and a property that is close enough to the beach but far enough out of the way to feel secluded, these private villas are the perfect way to explore all that Seminyak has to offer.

Where to Stay Spotlight: Vieques

I recently ventured to the incredible island of Vieques, just a short flight (in which I flew in the copilot seat!) from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Within minutes of landing I was drinking a rum punch in the air conditioning of the W Hotel lounge at the airport, checking in and handing my luggage over to my driver.  

The resort was absolutely stunning, and very much my style. With bohemian, technicolor pods for sofas, a fresh juice bar, and panoramic views of the beach… I was in tropical heaven. My large studio room had an amazing balcony overlooking the pool and the ocean. I quickly threw down my suitcases, changed into my bikini and ran for the beach. 

After being escorted to the adult beach, as there is also a separate family one (thank goodness), I laid out, caught up on my reading and finally relaxed. Once I was in a full mediative state from the sounds of the ocean, a cool and cleansing swim, and a healthy dose of Vitamin D, I changed and went for Sunset Yoga. The instructor was very insightful, patient, and thorough… leading a mellow session on the pavilion overlooking the water.

I woke the next day, and got a red Jeep from the car rental company on property (which is extremely convenient for day rentals) and was off exploring the island. I went to Esperanza, which is on the southern part of the island and is filled with quaint seaside shops, restaurants, and bars. I spent the afternoon window-shopping, snacking, and relaxing with another fun dip into the ocean. When I arrived back at the hotel, the concierge had organized a night trip for me to the bioluminescent bay that Vieques is so famous for. I kayaked around the bay in complete shock as the water turned neon yellow and green with every stroke of my ore. It was one of the most incredible experiences in the world and I was still only five hours from NYC. 

The morning before I left, I indulged in their amazing breakfast menu. Ordering caramelized pineapple oatmeal, a fresh fruit bowl, and the smoothie of the day… I soaked in all the wonderful smells, and sights of the resort.

The W Hotel in Vieques is an amazingly modern yet beachy resort that is the perfect place to call home during your time on the island. Whether it was the relaxing yoga, their incredibly attentive staff, or sublime facilities… I had the most magical experience and will be returning to the island very soon. Xx

Where to Stay Spotlight: Reykjavik

Let me just start this post by saying I’m typically not one to EVER stay in a hostel… and I mean no offensive to all the backpackers who love and live for it, but if I’m honest, it's never my first choice. (I think that might have to do with the fact that it became a horror film.) However, when the establishment starts to resemble the love child of a modern Scandinavian architect and the Ace Hotel.. I’m all ears. 

The Kex Hostel is the perfect place to call home during your stay in Reykjavik, whether for a long layover or a long weekend. If you are looking for a young, community-orientated place with incredible design and even better food this is really where it’s happening. 

The rooms are very well priced starting with typical dorm style rooms, with an option for a “family room”, great for either a small family or when traveling in a group of 4-6, and for those of you who are “hostel-shy” (like myself) they offer a double room plus which has the same amenities and privacy of a hotel room at a fraction of the cost. 

The sense of community stems from the consistent outturn of events and gatherings, from open mic and comedy nights, to group yoga classes and bar trivia. The guests are young and happy to be there and the staff are ready to answer any question you may have about their great home country.

In the restaurant, funky Icelandic chefs complete with ginger beards and an incredible knack for mixing unexpected ingredients, really take it to the next level with wholesome local products paired with staples like fish and lamb. I personally took the Icelandic burger which was made from their grass-fed beef and my non-burger-eating mind was BLOWN. 

I guess this trip has been full of out-of-the-norm experiences for me, but this place is absolutely a must. If not for the night, then absolutely for the food and ambience. 

Soaking Up the Sun: Four Seasons Jumeriah

Reporting live from the pool at the Four Seasons in Jumeirah Beach… where I am lazily absorbing my daily dose of vitamin-d, working on my tan lines, and sipping on an avocado smoothie. Sounds like a hard day on the job... no? I am, however, also currently pitching a few new travel articles from my summer abroad... so there is a lot of research and editing going on from my side of the chaise lounge. ;)

I was inspired by the lush and tropical surroundings this morning at breakfast so I opted to match the scenery. My reversible bikini, that I bought from the San Lorenzo store in Malibu, could not have been more on-fleek for the occasion. I loved that I honestly got 4 bikinis for the price of one. Which is of course why I wore the bottoms on the green and the top on the printed side.

My sunhat was an incredible find, bought only a few weeks ago at the main marina in Newport, Rhode Island. Fear not… I will be posting all about that fabulous trip once I am back in the states.

I stayed hydrated all day with orange and cucumber infused water... Which was incredibly refreshing, especially since I often get bored of drinking plain-o-janeo water. I would've loved to have taken a photo of my avocado smoothie but it started losing its form rather quickly due to the extreme heat, so naturally I inhaled it to insure it didn't go to waste ;).

Lastly, as a lover of the sun and a total beach bunny... I always bring some form of SPF wherever I go. I absolutely love the smell of the Korres walnut and coconut oil spray that’s factor 20 and I secretly love that I end up smelling like a crispy coconut macaroon after a long day in the rays.

Xx