Postcard From San Francisco: 6 Top Ways To Spend 24 Hours or Less

 

If you’re looking to make the most of a visit to San Francisco, I’ve got you covered.  During my latest jaunt to 'The City by the Bay', I took in six highlights that will make your visit unforgettable for all the right reasons.  And did I mention that you can do it all in a day or less?!

Here’s my itinerary for some of the best loved sights, attractions, and food, in the city—replete with memories to last a lifetime:

1. Ghirardelli Square - chocolate lover or not, this San Francisco staple is worth a whiz.  Serving beautiful views, quaint shops, and, of course, Ghirardelli goodness (think delectable candies, hot chocolate, ice cream sundaes, and more), it’s a scrumptious slice of the San Francisco pie.

2. Fisherman’s Wharf -  from my first visit to San Francisco many years ago, to my most recent visit, a stroll around Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-do.  Beyond the water and boat views, there is the matter of restaurants serving up seafood, the famous sourdough bread, clam chowder and more!  I went for a classic lunch of clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin, but the options are seemingly endless, for whatever whets your appetite.  Final tip: come hungry and prepare to linger a while.

3. A short bay cruise to take in views of the San Francisco cityscape, the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz is a surefire delight and bang for your buck.  One hour and $20 later, you’ll have great photos, a bit of history under your belt, and lasting postcard memories in-hand.

4. Hop on a cable car to Union Square.  A repeat indulgence of mine when I visit, cable cars are quintessential San Francisco and a charming way to make your way to key attractions in the city.  Conveniently located at the Wharf and other city points, you can hop on a one-way or round trip car.  For all day travel, you can also opt for a visitor passport.  I enjoyed a one-way ride to Union Square for $8, proving it’s also a more affordable way to go than local taxis and ride shares.

5. Strolling and shopping in trendy Union Square.  If you’re looking to do some shopping while visiting, there’s no better place to get it in than in Union Square.  Spanning several blocks, enjoy the outdoors while walking from shop to shop and taking in more of the San Francisco landscape.

6. The Ferry Building.  A destination within a destination, the Ferry Building is expansive and, as the name implies, is home to San Francisco’s ferry, along with coffee shops, restaurants, bookstores, and more, with water views and ferry rides awaiting, to boot.  I wrapped my evening in San Francisco with an al fresco dinner at the Hog Island Oyster Company (recommended as a must-try by Eater San Francisco), that was the perfect seal to a great day of casual delights.

Whether you visit for several hours, a day, or beyond, you’ll enjoy these San Francisco staples that continue to delight visitors again and again with lasting postcard memories.

Happy Travels!

5 Essential Tips for Successful Solo Travel

 

Havana, Cuba

Solo travel can seem daunting for some, but let me assure you that it’s absolutely doable and fulfilling—when done right.  After traveling to four continents and numerous countries, cities and islands as a solo traveler, it’s fair to say that I know a little something about this often avoided way of exploring.

So if you never, or rarely, travel alone, I want to boost your confidence and savvy with five tips for a successful solo journey—because life’s too short to wait around.

1.  Research, research, research.  Although you can’t know everything about a destination before arrival, you can get a major head start by taking the time to research.  From lodging, to dining, to cultural outlets, nightlife, ground transportation, local customs and norms, and more, the more you know, the better.  Not into all that research? Let my travel company, Postcard Travel Boutique, do the heavy lifting for you.

2.  Document and share.  Once your itinerary comes together, be sure to share it with family and/or friends so that they can know your intended whereabouts and monitor your safe comings and goings. This also includes real-time updates and check-ins while navigating your destination(s).

3.  Seek out curated activities that will allow you to safely engage with others, while still enjoying what a destination has to offer.  Hosted tours and classes are really good avenues, among others.

4.  Go at your own pace. One of the biggest ‘wins’ of solo travel is being in complete control of what happens—and when.  Whether it’s sleeping in after a late night, or lingering longer over an art exhibition, there are no rules for enjoying your journey.

5.  Make lots of postcard memories!  And repeat.

I hope the possibilities of solo travel feel more in reach than ever before and that your solo travel confidence is boosted.  When you’re ready to go, go at the pace that feels right to you and keep these tips on hand for….

Happy Traveling!

Marcell Von Berlin - Fall Winter 2021 Ready-to-Wear Collection

Fashion remains one of the greatest 'loves' and sheer pleasures of my existence--and excites me in ways that make me giddy and enthralled all at once.  Such was the reaction to my introduction to designer label, MARCELL VON BERLIN.

Founded in 2012 with ready-to-wear collections for men and women, the label stands for progressive looks, reflected through powerful silhouettes and unique statement prints.  Based in Berlin, the label embodies electric energy and urban charm with a street-style emphasis.  But ready-to-wear isn't all the label offers. Designer Marcell Pustul is a visionary who also creates custom made couture pieces.  The result? Both lines offer impeccable craftsmanship and the highest quality materials. 

 

Since its relaunch in 2018, the brand has expanded nationally and internationally, making its New York Fashion Week debut recently. On February 18th, the designer released his Fall Winter 2021 Ready-to-Wear collection titled “Fashion Remains.”

“Fashion Remains” is a reflection of Marcell's experience in Los Angeles during the pandemic. The FW21 collection expresses strong optimism towards the new normal. The message of the collection is in this strange new world lies the belief in the strength of fashion and its yearning for return.

 

Shooting on ruined building on the rough cliffs of Malibu evokes standstill, as if the entire world is holding its breath (“the new normal”). The collection moves in this ambivalent, intangible realm - a realm between something rooted in our world as we once knew it, and yet completely different. 

Watch the stunning digital NYFW show here and prepare to experience some of my aforementioned giddiness, too.

Happy Styling!

Photo Credits: MARCELL VON BERLIN, F/W 2021

MARCELL VON BERLIN collaborated with Fashion Director/ Stylist Nicola Formichetti. 

 

 

 

5 Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Travel

Memories from Florence, Italy

 While the prospect of holiday travel can come with excitement and anticipation of enjoying an amazing getaway, it can also bring its unique set of challenges. To help you make the most of your holiday travels (and beyond), here are five tips to keep in tow:

1. Embrace Your Inner Early Bird or Night Owl for Going To and Fro —Planning for very early or very late typically results in lighter crowds and clutter on the road, on the train, or as you’re trying to get through airport security.

2. Pack Light —I’m still working on this one, admittedly, but a lighter load allows for carry-on ease, minimizing the stress (and extra $$) associated with checked baggage in the case of air travel. Plus it’s all-around easier to manuever across multi-destinations.

3. Avoid Tight Connections —Because despite the best laid plans, delays sometimes occur. And nothing shrieks stress like the possibility of missing a connection,

4. Stay Powered Up —If you’ve ever glanced at your phone to see that low battery warning staring back, then you know the angst of not having enough juice for the journey. Make sure your mobile devices and portable chargers are fully powered before leaving home.

5. Get Organized —Gather important documentation, such as passports, boarding passes, itineraries, etc. and keep them organized and easily accessible. In the case of international travel, check sites like the State Department for relevant travel requirements, advisories, country information and related updates.

Now, you’re more ready than ever to enjoy…

Happy Travels!

This article originally appeared on Postcard Travel Boutique

5 Essential Travel Tips For When You're On the Go Again

When this year began, my travel horizons were higher than ever. For me and for my clients. And things seemed to be going to plan (my first—now only—getaway—was to NYC in late January and it served up special and fulfilling memories on several fronts.) And then a global pandemic changed everything.

Uncertainty, hopes for a soon-to-come rebound to “life as usual,” and heightened impact on the way we come, go, liaise and live, started to emerge. With more than a few cautionary tales that have arisen on the travel and personal safety terrains, in particular, and because the impacts of COVID-19 continue to linger, I’m sharing FIVE ESSENTIAL TIPS for keeping your travels as stress-free as possible and your wanderlust in high gear.

1. Secure comprehensive travel insurance to minimize the impact of cancellations and other disruptions (e.g. delayed or lost luggage, local healthcare, etc.)

2. Regularly check CDC and state department sites for travel updates, alerts, restrictions, etc., before and during travel. Also do as much research as possible to understand conditions at your destination (domestic and international).

3. Practice excellent personal hygiene, take care of yourself, and do your part as a global citizen to foster healthy environments, including refraining from going out while sick. That vacation or event will come around again once you’re healthy and our world is out of the current health crisis.

4. Dream, plan, and prepare for future travel. Feed your wanderlust regularly and anticipate the postcard memories on the horizon when your travels resume.

5. Let my travel company, Postcard Travel Boutique, help you plan and navigate your travels, and related questions, including ensuring you’re informed and have a ready resource on the ground to assist during any travel concerns.

Here’s to more travel and to more postcard-worthy experiences in the days to come!

Happy Travels!

This article originally appeared on Postcard Travel Boutique.

{Travel Immersion 101}: Dining with Locals

Bocagrande, Cartagena

Food and travel are inextricably linked in my world.  And as I often say, one of the best, most authentic ways to experience a destination is through the lens of its cuisine.  But there's something that actually surpasses the typical tourist dining experience.  Beyond the restaurants found in hotels and resorts, often exceptional in their own right, lies a sometimes overlooked source of true culinary delight and cultural immersion--dining with locals. 

It's like discovering the ultimate best kept secret, because who better to represent the tastes and soul of a people, their history, their heritage, and the essence that represents 'home'--than a local?  Some of my most memorable meals have come from dining with locals.   Not because the trappings were so grand, but because the heartbeat of the food purveyors and the surrounding community were.

Family-Owned Harvey's Restaurant, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

From a crowded (how I like it) and understandably popular beach hut nested on the hot sands of South America, to a multi-generational owned family restaurant touted as the best among locals, and those who know, in the Virgin Islands, to a Fish Fry featuring locals' gold (aka Crack Conch) in the Caribbean, there's no end to the richness each experience offered.

Sitting elbow to elbow with fellow diners, as I settled in for lunch in BocaGrande, Cartagena, to chatting up a family on their exceptional history and landmark restaurant, Harvey's, in Saint Croix, to trying to navigate the massive fish fry platter presented to me in the Bahamas, these are the dining experiences that go well beyond simply satiating an appetite to ultimately nourishing the soul.  From local pride and community, to seeing a people living in their everyday environ, it's an instant segue into the heart of a destination.

My favorite lunch during my time in Cartagena, Colombia

So as you plan out your travels and dining forays in the days ahead, be sure to do yourself the favor of going off the beaten, tourist path and gift yourself with moments and memories spent dining with locals. 

Happy Travels and Eating! 

{Culture Club}: Indulge Your Stay at Home with Travel, Broadway, Art and More!

Photo Credit: Departures

If phrases like, "climbing the walls" "going stir crazy" and "bored in the house" resonate with you these days, you're not alone.  While the impacts of quarantine life are affecting everyone differently, there are some effects that are likely universal.

Beyond the desire to gather, socialize, embrace and simply 'be' in uninhibited ways of days gone by, there's also the desire--dare I say need--to keep in touch with the creative sides of life.  And with that, I aim to help.

Travel and the arts have always been significant in my life and sense of personal fulfillment, so finding ways to fill the voids as best as possible from the inner sanctum of my home proffers a new infusion of life from the outside world, making the continued time indoors less escape-worthy and more stay-worthy.

If Broadway, the Opera, Museums, walks through Disney's Magic Kingdom, U.S. National Parks and the Australian Outback, Zoo Exhibits, Salsa Lessons, Hotel Scenes, and the like, suit your fancy, you'll want to take in some, or all, of the current offerings available to the public. Excited yet?

Opera~
I attended my first opera many, many years ago while vacationing in Nice, France--and it's safe to say I was smitten (and hooked) from that time until now.  Taking in the opera would continue to dot my travels during future stays in Florence, Italy and Paris, France--and I can't begin to tell you how excited I am to take in The Metropolitan Opera right from my living room in the days ahead.  Enjoy nightly opera streams from the Met, featuring classics ranging from Mozart to French masterpieces and more.

Broadway~
A child of the performing arts, who eventually dipped my toe in the community theater pond for an unforgettable (to me) stint, theater--Broadway, particularly, speaks to everything that I love about the arts: song, dance, acting, production, grandeur, storytelling and so on.  So now that my Broadway and local theater outings are on hold, watching from home has become the next best thing.  Cue offerings from iconic British composer Andrew Lloyd Weber that stream every Friday. Each full-length feature begins at 2 p.m. ET and remains accessible for the next 48 hours--just in time for weekend indulgence.  And there's more.  From BroadwayHD, to Netflix, to Amazon Prime, more productions are simply a click away.

Culture, culture and more culture~
I'm a card carrying member of the culture club (aka the art, travel, historical and beyond experiences that immerse the mind, body and soul in stimulating, exciting experiences.) And I happen to have landed upon a collection of 30 experiences ranging from purveyors such as Disney, U.S. National Parks, Tourism Boards, Museums, Zoos and more! Who knows? You may never want to leave your couch again. 

Museums~
There's no way to adequately describe Google Arts and Culture Museum at Home curation of art from museums spanning the globe; you'll really just have to see it for yourself.  And let me just say that as an avid museum lover and patron, you will see renowned exhibitions and art works that might otherwise require a near lifetime to digest in person.

Virtual Vacations~
If you're a travel lover, then it's safe to surmise that you'd welcome the opportunity to travel freely again--absorbing destinations, sights, scenes, and creating memories, that will linger long after you're gone.  If I'm right, then you're going to like what comes next.  From Italy, to Mexico, Malibu, Ireland, St. Barths, and Israel, take a (virtual) vacation to soothe your senses and reinvigorate your appetite for travel once the outdoors are fully reopen again.

Allow these experiences to make the continued days of quarantine more enjoyable (and durable), as we continue our commitment to stay home and stay safe.

Happy (and Safe) Living! 

  

Springing Forward

Blooms from my hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand last Spring

Spring is coming! A recent calendar tickler about the upcoming daylight saving time (it's this weekend, fyi) reminded me that we are rounding the corner on Winter in a matter of weeks. It’s been an interesting season for sure, and a renewal is certainly in order. 

That got me to thinking about what lies ahead in this next season, or better still, what I want this upcoming season to be for me. While I can’t answer that exhaustively in this moment, I can say that my outlook, fueled by my faith, is as hopeful as ever. 

Along with more personal discovery and revival, I’m looking forward to blooming and flourishing more in the ways that are meaningful to me. And I encourage the same for you.  Some suggestions for every season include: embracing self-care and self-love.  Using your voice. Pursuing your passions. Being your authentic self.

So here’s to finishing this season well (as defined by you) and intentionally embracing the good that awaits as we spring forward. 

Happy Living!

Postcard from Little Rock: What to See, Do & Taste in Arkansas' Capital

Sometimes you just want a getaway that involves minimal fuss and major upside.  One which kicks off almost immediately after leaving home (read: a one hour flight) and lands you in the heart of scenic views, natural beauty, cultural excursions and, best of all, some of the most scrumptious cuisine there is to be found.  And when you wrap all of this together, all roads lead to Arkansas.

If you've never had the Natural State on your travel radar, you're probably not alone.  But that changes for good after today, because I'm here to expose this well kept travel secret. Only a week or so back from my recent time there experiencing so much of what this southern gem has to offer, I'm offering up the 'best of' this destination for what to see, do and taste, to make sure your visit is as memorable (and delicious) as mine.  From the heart of the capital in Little Rock, to a journey southward in El Dorado, and culminating in the north's star, Bentonville, there is something for every traveler to relish.

I'm kicking things off with this first Arkansas installment (because there's just too much goodness to fit into one post), and I'm sharing my Little Rock guide for your weekend (or longer) getaway!

Little Rock ~
From national treasures, to a budding entertainment district, and superb dining from fast-casual to fine cuisine, this capital town is not to be missed.

See and Do
If you've ever wanted to visit a National Treasure, the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site gives you that opportunity.  Visitors can elect a guided tour which offers a first-hand immersion into the historic civil rights events surrounding this site, namely the brave integration of the school in 1957 by nine black students (known as the Little Rock Nine), following the Brown v. Board of Education ruling.  This was, without question, one of the most touching highlights of my time in Arkansas and a definite must-see/do.  Along with the guided tour, the visitor center also offers exhibits and interactive programs--and you can round out your tour with a visit to the bookstore and gift shop for takeaway keepsakes such as books, t-shirts and more. 

A self-proclaimed "bag lady", I indulged my travel and girly-girl inclinations with a morning tour of the Esse Purse Museum and Store. From low to high-end purses and leather goods, to creative exhibits featuring everything from fancy hats to suitcases, with nods to women's history tossed in, it's no wonder that this museum hails as a favorite, as it showcases owner Anita Davis' dream of exploring the concepts of art, history and the feminine.  You won't come across another place like this easily given that it's one of only three purse museums in the world--and the only one in the U.S.

Mild temps and sunshine made for the perfect afternoon outdoors strolling the River Market Entertainment District (RMED), while listening to live music, taking in panoramic views from the Junction Bridge, and joining the local goers in relishing the down-to-earth entertainment and fun to be had along the riverfront. 

*Additional Top Attractions: Explore more of American presidential history at The Clinton Presidential Center and see how efforts to end world hunger and poverty are being championed at Heifer International/Urban Farm.

Taste
Within the very first hours of my arrival, I quickly learned that to eat, or not to eat, is never the question when in Arkansas.  From my first meal to my last, Little Rock brought total satiation to this food-loving girl.

When your meal begins with a deliciously prepared starter of Bone Marrow, Escargot, Grilled Octopus and Foie Gras Croutons, you know you're in for a good night of noshing.  And nosh we did at Table 28, a modern, organic restaurant.  Executive Chef Scott Rains won me over with his southern hospitality, coupled with his exceptional menu.  And I still blame him for the extra scoop of Praline Gelato that I couldn't resist. :)

Bone Marrow, Escargot, Octopus and Foie Gras Croutons

Chilean Sea Bass

Mouth-Watering Short Ribs

One of several decadent desserts

As festivals go, can you imagine one more indulgent than the Arkansas Cornbread Festival?! Me, either.  Tasting my way through the creative and traditional amateur and professional cornbread servings (red velvet cornbread, anyone?) and side-dish renditions such as collard greens and chili, to vote for an ultimate favorite, is my kind of fun. Recognized by Forbes Magazine in September 2019 as one of the top 5 Food Festivals for Food Lovers, this is a must-attend event worth marking your calendar for next year.

If you're planning to splurge on just one meal in Little Rock, then the six-course tasting menu at One Eleven at the Capital has to be it.  Starting with a delectable amuse bouche of Oyster Rockefeller and Blood Sausage, to the first course of Shrimp Ceviche, second course of Mushroom Tortellini, third course of Scallop with Vegetarian Risotto, fourth course of Pork Chop with pork cheek, confit shallot, roasted potato and pork Ju, fifth course of cheese, sixth course of Parisian Chocolate Cake and Tiramisu, and final compliments of Pistachio Macarons and Hazelnut Chocolates, it cemented the meaning of fine dining in the best way possible.  And did I mention that each course had a perfectly matched wine pairing? So you now understand my opening line--and why a trip to Little Rock for this dining experience, alone, would be understandable. :)

Scallop Perfection

Mushroom Tortellini

Cheese Plate

Chocolate Cake Decadence

Special mention goes to Jones Bar-B-Q located in Marianna in the heart of the Delta.  We were treated to a special tasting of this barbecue, that is deemed a state treasure, during our time in Little Rock.  And here are some of the reasons why: Jones' barbecue has been a part of the food culture in Arkansas for more than century. Talk about amazing! And as the only James Beard award-winning restaurant in the state, it is also believed to be the oldest African-American owned restaurant in the South and possibly the nation.  So if you're ever so fortunate to get your lips on this, it's a must-eat. 
*Additional Good Eats: Sunday Brunch at acclaimed Petit & Keet was an indulgent delight and a casual Sunday dinner at The Fold gave me just the fix I needed for my never-ending taco hankering.

Without question, Little Rock deserves a spot on your travel bucketlist for all the reasons mentioned above--and more!  So pack your bags and prepare for...
Happy Eating and Travels! 

P.S. Take in some of the behind-the-scenes fun and shenanigans here!





 

{Postcard From Bangkok}: A Cooking Class To Remember

This past Spring I embarked on another first in my travel chronicles: I visited the continent of Asia for the first time. (Cue confetti!)  And if there was ever a place to christen my inaugural visit, it had to be one of my bucket-list destinations, Thailand.  So believe me when I say that it was everything I hoped, and then some, leaving me wanting more of what this Southeast Asian mecca has to offer, and currently ranking as one of my favorite travel escapades to date.

My ultimate itinerary combined my penchants for both diligent pre-planning (who needs unwanted surprises thousands of miles away from home?) and spontaneity (always leaving room for real-time discovery and greater immersion).  Spanning three of Thailand's most beloved (and delicious in so many ways) destinations--Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Phuket--it's fair to say that both approaches served me well.  And although this post is dedicated to my cooking adventures in Bangkok, I will be sharing more travel postcards from my time there in future posts.

In my element

So now for Bangkok--and cooking.  This is one detail my inner gourmand would not leave to chance or last minute maneuvering.  Because you know how seriously I take my cooking--and eating--around here. :)  Seriously, I wanted to invest in a cooking class that suited my skill, taste and experience levels, so I did what any type-A personality would do: I researched!! It's my M.O. for curating memorable, glorious travel experiences that rarely ever disappoint.  And this was no different.

After narrowing down my options to two top contenders, I ultimately opted for a half-day, six-course session, inclusive of a market tour that presented a range of staples (Thai chilies and curry pastes, among others) and novel ingredients (pink duck eggs, anyone?), alike.  The cherry on top? After a morning of instruction and hands-on cooking, our delicacies were served on a beautifully dressed dining table in the accompanying, acclaimed restaurant--the epitome of enjoying the fruits of our labor.  There was nooo way we could eat it all (I mean we're talking six sizeable courses per capita), but it sure was fun trying!

The fruits of my labor

The school of which I speak is the acclaimed Blue Elephant Cooking School.  And after my several hours stint, I can understand (and co-sign) on why it's heralded as one of, if not the, best cooking schools in Bangkok, as well as restaurants.  If you're trying to get your head around that, consider that two of my classmates were a couple from China who were prepping to open their own restaurant upon their return home!

I also couldn't help but wax nostalgic about my own cooking school and the beautiful memories I have been blessed to amass with my former students and host venues.  Side note: I'm resolved to kick my cooking classes and services off again, so stay close to me so you'll be among the first to know when the time comes.  In the meantime, I'll be recreating some of my Thai favorites in my home kitchen and bringing these memories back to life again.

So without further ado, enjoy this highlight reel of my cooking expedition!

Happy Eating & Travels!

{Hairstory}: Tribal Braids x Life Lessons

I can barely recall a time, absent young childhood, when my hair wasn't top of mind.  Whether it was the leap from virgin to relaxed hair; my first chop--a chic bob that would become a favorite go-to style over the years; keeping it healthy while living miles apart from my trusted stylist during college and law school; enduring the upheaval that workout sweats wreak, and on and on, it's always been (and remains) a consideration.  And allowing myself to embrace myriad styling options (albeit gradually) has become invaluable.

A couple of years ago, I switched gears from my minimally relaxed routine about three times a year (to help with manageability) and stopped applying any chemicals, despite how slight the previous applications had become.  It wasn't intentional initially, but as time passed, I decided to go with the flow.  During that period, I also released my previous resistance to extensions, weaves, and the like, and jumped on the "sew-in", clip-ins bandwagon for additional versatility.  And, most recently, I opened my styling options to the easy, carefree world of braids.  In full candor, it was a somewhat unexpected adjustment that caused me to reflect more deeply about how I view myself, my personal aesthetic, embracing change and the freedom to express myself as I see fit on the hair and beauty spectrum.

I must say I was delightfully surprised at all of the positive and affirming feedback my new look garnered and how it truly served to help me settle into my new hairstyle.  Because let's face it--hair is a big deal.  Whether you're deciding on texture, styling options, healthy maintenance, battling hair loss or diminished density due to improper care, illness, aging, etc., our hair is our crown of glory and is forever attached to our self-expression.

Back to my foray into the world of braids (beyond my previous, simpler, but no less lovely, cornrow styles), I decided to go for the tribal braids with inspiration drawn from Bo Derek's famous look in 10.  My motivation was lifestyle ease, especially regarding those style-crushing workout sessions I mentioned earlier, coupled with my admiration for the sheer beauty of the style as worn by other women.

I said farewell to my braids on last night after my six week stint and can say that along with my hairstyle change came a greater self-appreciation and open-mindedness to express myself in ways I deem beautiful and authentic.  I fell in love with this new expression of myself and added another notch in my hair story.  See of more of my tribal braids looks here. :)

Happy Living!

P.S. What is your hair story?  Have you ever made a bold change to your hair?

Toast With This!: Elderflower Lemonade Spritz

Only a handful of days back home from my most recent jaunts to London and Paris and everything--including the longing to return--is still fresh and vivid in my memory.  As I paused to reflect, I realized that this most recent visit to Paris, in particular, marked the fifth over the past 17 years.  And can I let you in on a secret?  It's still my favorite all these years later.  If you've been following the blog for a while, then you know London is also a fond destination and this third time around was as charming as the first over twelve years ago.

So putting my sentiments to the side, momentarily at least, I want to share an ode to the casual, yet sophisticated, sip that takes many variations among the sidewalk cafes and restaurants throughout each destination: the Spritz.

From the Aperol (which recently underwent a heated review, turned debate, courtesy of New York Times Cooking, but which showed no sign of waning across the pond if my observations are any proof), to the St. Germain, and beyond, the Spritz undoubtedly holds its own as a drink of choice. 

I've created a light, effervescent version that's as refreshing as the Summer days are long and the temps are hot--making it an undeniable go-to all season long. Combining Elderflower Lemonade (I like Belvoir's), Prosecco, and Club Soda for an elegant sip couldn't be easier, or more delicious--and the combined bubbly effect is a lovely bonus. 

If you can't be cafe-side in Paris or London, you can still enjoy the same joie de vivre--and toast with this.

Happy Sipping!

Elderflower Lemonade Spritz
Ingredients:
Elderflower Lemonade (or Lemonade combined with an Elderflower Cordial), chilled
Prosecco, chilled
Club Soda

Method:
Pour Elderflower Lemonade into a glass, followed by Prosecco, and topped off with a splash of club soda.  Stir slightly and enjoy!