tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72316494464855487872024-03-15T21:09:15.690-04:00Loulou's viewsLifestyle and Travel BloggerLoukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.comBlogger981125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-15934421624160742432023-09-26T10:17:00.089-04:002023-11-12T19:47:28.955-05:00Chicago Explored<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhomXnsiHmQQ7nvbWddqkgRAM-EjFd-Icg2ICUDc2MEXVHg7QSxwV5fEViK1lpyLoQM5zYL_yl_WKbY6CKZVahNMN2aHjH-Oi0cmN0_y7G_JPr8QKNcc6BgR-6jp8z2kLfuMZ42ejL-fpkNP9x6MVX1MpB_uA_9T6DvuCuLj_n6eTvWQVpYjflyYtS-zcI/s640/viceroylobby2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="640" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhomXnsiHmQQ7nvbWddqkgRAM-EjFd-Icg2ICUDc2MEXVHg7QSxwV5fEViK1lpyLoQM5zYL_yl_WKbY6CKZVahNMN2aHjH-Oi0cmN0_y7G_JPr8QKNcc6BgR-6jp8z2kLfuMZ42ejL-fpkNP9x6MVX1MpB_uA_9T6DvuCuLj_n6eTvWQVpYjflyYtS-zcI/w640-h424/viceroylobby2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>I'm back from an incredible press trip to Chicago with <a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/">Choose Chicago</a>--one of the best big cities on earth. In fact, Chicago was just voted the <b>Best Big City in the United States</b> <i><b>for the seventh years in a row</b></i>, and I have to say... I agree.</div><div>When visiting Chicago, there is so much to see and do--and the city caters to every type of tourist, whether you're into sports, (from the Chicago Bulls tot he Bears to the Cubs--they've got it all!) sightseeing, shopping, dining, or just taking in the stunning and historic architecture. From the award winning food scene, beautiful parks and green spaces, luxury hotels, attractions, and vibrant neighbourhoods, it's a city everyone should add to their travel bucket list. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2owKKKC344IXHvDVFb3Xsfx3oOE22ct0rNiOXRa-m_sy7_XYBSGQZYgAYQKzBhypD6pAUrMDwlJFoCVAf0IrATFJXE--kQ0jp6LIn89q4j1gxcPKu7hq2JDKTAYBqS6VdlpBsmeI_aJztPs32xiORvTnjmJ7teCIJW_lSvBa7guQlfoDsP6roCXwiH24/s640/chicagosign1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="430" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2owKKKC344IXHvDVFb3Xsfx3oOE22ct0rNiOXRa-m_sy7_XYBSGQZYgAYQKzBhypD6pAUrMDwlJFoCVAf0IrATFJXE--kQ0jp6LIn89q4j1gxcPKu7hq2JDKTAYBqS6VdlpBsmeI_aJztPs32xiORvTnjmJ7teCIJW_lSvBa7guQlfoDsP6roCXwiH24/w430-h640/chicagosign1.jpg" width="430" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a rundown of where I stayed, where I dined, and what I visited, to help you plan your itinerary for your upcoming Chicago trip! </div><div><br /></div><div><b>How to get there</b></div><div><br /></div><div>We flew out of Ottawa with Porter, and landed in Toronto's downtown Billy Bishop airport. Flying Porter is always an excellent experience--from the service they provide to every customer, to the complimentary food, snacks, and beverages (including wine and beer...hello!) on board. The lounge is spacious, with comfortable seats, tables, and chairs, with places to eat and shop--and the security check-in is a breeze. From Billy Bishop airport we got on a plane to Chicago, and the flight was under two hours. Another great reason to fly to Chicago--it's such a short flight! (And Porter makes the entire experience extremely comfortable and stress-free).</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Where to stay</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_qk0778TpzcdvZxl9A3M3vWoTI8dHuueDKR_0sOxcCX-pvguVIQxrOkLUs22_YWTRg4Zof_vfX_wcfVVoUdKbb3w5vPGbglY5b9Jg3gTBMiKD09XAbD0kqfN9HtOfmCgwKECJPtslmDiVUrn-5OzLWSOI1Cvs8an5vjwWKs0_jthcpUSLY_b8oVWQqo/s640/viceroyexterior4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="458" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_qk0778TpzcdvZxl9A3M3vWoTI8dHuueDKR_0sOxcCX-pvguVIQxrOkLUs22_YWTRg4Zof_vfX_wcfVVoUdKbb3w5vPGbglY5b9Jg3gTBMiKD09XAbD0kqfN9HtOfmCgwKECJPtslmDiVUrn-5OzLWSOI1Cvs8an5vjwWKs0_jthcpUSLY_b8oVWQqo/w458-h640/viceroyexterior4.jpg" width="458" /></a></div><div><br /></div>This Chicago trip with <a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/" target="_blank">Choose Chicago</a> had me staying in the beautiful and luxurious Gold Coast neighbourhood--at the legendary <a href="https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/chicago" target="_blank">Viceroy Hotel</a>. The Viceroy is set on the site of a 120-year old landmark building, and is one of the finest hotels in Chicago near Magnificent Mile, surrounded by high end boutiques and Michelin star restaurants in the Gold Coast. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpeY0Dg4vyDp2HRxocKdD7IoYOqAlVGs-boZaEzpRQ41LETIIU_PR41Ix3emT5aKAGJk0TwtwUCXyCssj-s2Wyqtvx75CLyhmchSd5xzOT-s89iuZVRYsMGR5nEPxneYv69KeTs-fFQ41gMZ4Sq1ry7M5vfjulYP_V9uY_G2qR2Y3EfDWMWRDZOdhX54/s640/somerset.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpeY0Dg4vyDp2HRxocKdD7IoYOqAlVGs-boZaEzpRQ41LETIIU_PR41Ix3emT5aKAGJk0TwtwUCXyCssj-s2Wyqtvx75CLyhmchSd5xzOT-s89iuZVRYsMGR5nEPxneYv69KeTs-fFQ41gMZ4Sq1ry7M5vfjulYP_V9uY_G2qR2Y3EfDWMWRDZOdhX54/w480-h640/somerset.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg63uGUsoJHkdjB-UyBXbESUY4dyU98EyGjIGKcS-_M5Ru6mBeqS5qPiPcUYEBwQ-j2VfP_I4xa5TfuFijL9_kd9aaouL6MG-d6d0bEKqDbW8TPzkU9BTod1VpRDyPdENOs9R-94WX37-1jAp6fvHnd2-PBTGTtxWY3yvyDockCjhW7rj4djLuxJ8j6iNE/s640/somerset2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg63uGUsoJHkdjB-UyBXbESUY4dyU98EyGjIGKcS-_M5Ru6mBeqS5qPiPcUYEBwQ-j2VfP_I4xa5TfuFijL9_kd9aaouL6MG-d6d0bEKqDbW8TPzkU9BTod1VpRDyPdENOs9R-94WX37-1jAp6fvHnd2-PBTGTtxWY3yvyDockCjhW7rj4djLuxJ8j6iNE/w480-h640/somerset2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Bonus: The hotel's Somerset restaurant serves up delicious breakfast and dinner, (indoors in their 1920's themed seating area) or outside on their beautiful patio. The hotel is also home to the Devereaux, the 18th floor rooftop lounge (and where you'll find the hotel's outdoor pool). The views of the city's skyscrapers and Lake Michigan are simply breathtaking from the 18th floor! The hotel is perfect for a girls trip or a couples trip, and they also cater to families--they have great activities and events in store for fall and the upcoming holiday season. </span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhmh44cyU2J0JM-Ny0o3qIEMlgW__24aVARswbx3OlgXK6cl1xlD3e3Nt5N4zeHyoOvyUjzcVWC-aj44gMZs7yA9f-Bd5rS8VUTqsqHsiiawYo4KmOT39ekEpVt4LBHLeyoYz_w-IFwQeDfjUZdWwfooyVZ9aMJLj_00VnWkyLLF_SLaxZu-x46rOhOA/s640/viceroy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhmh44cyU2J0JM-Ny0o3qIEMlgW__24aVARswbx3OlgXK6cl1xlD3e3Nt5N4zeHyoOvyUjzcVWC-aj44gMZs7yA9f-Bd5rS8VUTqsqHsiiawYo4KmOT39ekEpVt4LBHLeyoYz_w-IFwQeDfjUZdWwfooyVZ9aMJLj_00VnWkyLLF_SLaxZu-x46rOhOA/w480-h640/viceroy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Our room was beautiful--spacious, modern, comfortable, with floor to ceiling windows and Lake Michigan views. The service was excellent; everyone knew our names, and everyone we met was friendly and helpful. I would absolutely recommend Viceroy Hotel to anyone asking me where to stay when they travel to Chicago. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Where to dine</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Where to dine in Chicago? Considering it's one the most awarded and recognized culinary cities in the United States and worldwide, this is not an easy task and one that could take days to figure out, because there are countless excellent restaurants. Lucky for me, all the restaurants I dined at were selected by <a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/">Choose Chicago</a> and all of them were outstanding. Let's break it down. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Adalina</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOY_Z4pN9UhFpQ5WdAFKEuD4YiMEnKM7AxlwgkAy2OYrsgqQijykOpGAiL7A2stjF6zw3VXy06kLs9yke5rr78smOMwB66hJWXsrAIbDAtfxZ19t-TGjmR9FmxRCiqcuHcOEn5437iMaZ9ZY5G_bmuWRQq5jUnfnJExH3C54F8DIEPxCeloOO3WXn81ds/s640/chiada.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOY_Z4pN9UhFpQ5WdAFKEuD4YiMEnKM7AxlwgkAy2OYrsgqQijykOpGAiL7A2stjF6zw3VXy06kLs9yke5rr78smOMwB66hJWXsrAIbDAtfxZ19t-TGjmR9FmxRCiqcuHcOEn5437iMaZ9ZY5G_bmuWRQq5jUnfnJExH3C54F8DIEPxCeloOO3WXn81ds/w640-h640/chiada.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>We had dinner at <a href="https://www.adalinachicago.com/menu/#dinner-menu" target="_blank">Adalina</a> on our first night, just a couple of blocks from our hotel. The restaurant was an entire vibe! It was busy, the decor was stunning, and we were seated right in the middle of all the action. We enjoyed the four cheese garlic bread table service, the Mafaldine pasta dish (a delicious cacio e pepe!), short ribs with gnocchi alla Romana, and for dessert, we tried the Cookie Plate and Adalina Tiramisu. Everything was delicious, and I highly recommend this restaurant for your visit to Chicago. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Girl and the Goat</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-j1L8THoyYxFCgjbli5a8EJabPEYfdQdR_7BCtqWVy2hdrLO-ztYPtBU4m-PDzVoVnnFx7vDheYdX-1WZmGFQacCY12fyj7xBDxRc-b91hV2bfdpn3cEgksPFjFYagqEa92IMbEv7h-2n0yUix-oyAzzrj2RLBJmhiUyy4i8VnLMByo6Xm81htULCE0E/s640/GirlandtheGoat7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="544" data-original-width="640" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-j1L8THoyYxFCgjbli5a8EJabPEYfdQdR_7BCtqWVy2hdrLO-ztYPtBU4m-PDzVoVnnFx7vDheYdX-1WZmGFQacCY12fyj7xBDxRc-b91hV2bfdpn3cEgksPFjFYagqEa92IMbEv7h-2n0yUix-oyAzzrj2RLBJmhiUyy4i8VnLMByo6Xm81htULCE0E/w640-h544/GirlandtheGoat7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Dinner at <a href="https://www.girlandthegoat.com/chicago" target="_blank">Girl and the Goat</a> was a culinary experience! Top Chef Stephanie Izard's restaurant, located on Restaurant Row in the West Loop, is always busy and buzzing--and there's no wonder why! The food is incredible, with a focus on global cuisine featuring local ingredients. Most plates are meant to be shared, and we enjoyed the olive garlic focaccia, their famous green beans dish, (truly delicious!) chickpea fritters, grilled chicken skewers, and lamb perogies. We ended the night with the blueberry shortcake and brown butter cashew tart. So good! </div><div><br /></div><div><b>LUXBAR</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGE8fCY8n4_KeOwRgDWGsiGhCY-GQAFKusYXz2z5jxPBs5NMMnDQgUT3Qjp-vl6-AxKLOFT6SK8ysIcIPSI4EoyOPB1kzyO9ZKLw99gBbGg44ti5lfkPsqpejRS5mX_2p897eY-OACi14HHgFkf7rQU2BVWdu5o5k7ljM3F8xvt2jmEtx3cOLAA99mW8/s640/luxbar.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGE8fCY8n4_KeOwRgDWGsiGhCY-GQAFKusYXz2z5jxPBs5NMMnDQgUT3Qjp-vl6-AxKLOFT6SK8ysIcIPSI4EoyOPB1kzyO9ZKLw99gBbGg44ti5lfkPsqpejRS5mX_2p897eY-OACi14HHgFkf7rQU2BVWdu5o5k7ljM3F8xvt2jmEtx3cOLAA99mW8/w480-h640/luxbar.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /></div><div>LUXBAR is located in the Gold Coast neighbourhood, practically across the street from Viceroy Hotel, right in the centre of all the designer shops. It's considered the quintessential American bar and eatery, and the menu serves all your favourites--sliders and fries, chips and guacamole, and pizza. I've enjoyed deep-dish classic Chicago style pizza before, but the pizza at <a href="https://www.luxbar.com/">LUXBAR</a> is actually Detroit style--and it was so, so good! The food and drinks are excellent, but even more fun is the people watching--it's packed full of stylish people stopping by for a quick bite to watch the game, or take a break from shopping. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Evie</b></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://eviechicago.com/gallery">The Evie</a> is located right in the heart of it all on Michigan Avenue on the Magnificent Mile, led by a team of lifelong Chicago restaurant figures. This locally owned upscale dining destination serves a great mix of classic favourites like steak, sushi, burgers and fries, freshly baked breads, and Chicago-style hot dogs. The service was excellent, and everything we ordered from the menu was delicious. I loved the awesome views of Michigan Avenue from the large windows of the second floor restaurant. (The dessert menu is also amazing!). </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Avli on the Park </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqCmSSq_pYrOBqfwqAICwLKnMKUN8FWg3Sk4itotJEa5FKw99npQgMYYl3QdjQyXGxfknyu7d9AajXkGljQFJYj8LZ_NAY5apnVAMlaEUbher9FcG6kvX1y2W5bpOvsxdogQoYZeNhS6r7cOHf6IzuqBobjqyK60HQL77EvmNaf9gJW8tXR_z9AVd0X-8/s640/avli.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqCmSSq_pYrOBqfwqAICwLKnMKUN8FWg3Sk4itotJEa5FKw99npQgMYYl3QdjQyXGxfknyu7d9AajXkGljQFJYj8LZ_NAY5apnVAMlaEUbher9FcG6kvX1y2W5bpOvsxdogQoYZeNhS6r7cOHf6IzuqBobjqyK60HQL77EvmNaf9gJW8tXR_z9AVd0X-8/w480-h640/avli.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /></div><div>I consider myself a food expert when it comes to Greek food and if you're looking for a highly rated authentic Greek restaurant, you have to try <a href="https://www.avli.us/avli-on-the-park" target="_blank">Avli on the Park</a> in downtown Chicago's Lakeshore East. The restaurant is stunning and extremely spacious, with white walls, floor to ceiling windows, fishing ropes hung from the ceiling, and a sleek and modern design that makes you feel like you're dining on a Greek island. The food is as authentic as it gets (the Chef is Greek) and the spreads, salads, and main dishes (think classic Greek food, from chicken souvlaki, Greek salad, tzatziki, and potatoes) were perfection. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Okay, believe it or not, there is more to do in Chicago than just eat, though that's a big part of every visit! What else should you do in Chicago? </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are some ideas:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Skydeck Experience</b></div><div><br /></div><div>If you've never been to Chicago before, you have to visit Willis Tower--the tallest building in Chicago and the third-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. The view from the top of the 103rd floor (yeah, it's really high up!) offers incredible views of the city, and you can also see up to four states. If you're brave enough, step out on to The Ledge, a glass balcony extending four feet outside Willis Tower. The best way to start your experience is by going through the interactive museum on the main floor, before you head on up. This will give you excellent insight into what makes Chicago so great, and you'll learn about the city's awesome history and what makes it so great today. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Museum of Ice Cream</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrqHLap5IgLrdHqGx5b51Z0MBfWcCab8Sj7pthSSKo5Oh5Yo1Hkg11sAZcDoqWVvv6bX-kaFdhD-TJX4pPM8YEMHQLWZ6xciYXU9qkRGy2CrR7C3hgsMebaMl1FPvqdJit9QXjzk707wcLfNtJxrHu_fTMmQWdIz3qKnpKBIigGHZrYpwLh9jUb4pvOr4/s640/icecream.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrqHLap5IgLrdHqGx5b51Z0MBfWcCab8Sj7pthSSKo5Oh5Yo1Hkg11sAZcDoqWVvv6bX-kaFdhD-TJX4pPM8YEMHQLWZ6xciYXU9qkRGy2CrR7C3hgsMebaMl1FPvqdJit9QXjzk707wcLfNtJxrHu_fTMmQWdIz3qKnpKBIigGHZrYpwLh9jUb4pvOr4/w480-h640/icecream.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div>This one is fun--and sort of involves food--the ice cream kind! This interactive <a href="https://www.museumoficecream.com/chicago/">ice cream museum</a> is Chicago's largest playground filled with unlimited ice cream and fun activations, like a large sprinkle pool you can jump in, games, (the kinds you play at a fair) mini golf, and more. And yes... there is lots of free ice cream. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Art Institute of Chicago </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDZ4vMeqdckQOS02KNoQnbsLqW5-cD1rmUNJikjDBG0I8SQNiURf7Mu3XZS2cEeO9AFdaScHeqtpy5XffUJfm-JclAiWriDUAyfzo0gq8jEII3GRcjfVIl05kP2zZBeuDpkzMAmbN94knFAVuseT4P3vzgzW2gnVUFB1d8P_iwD-_MXHfZ_WALEykD5E/s640/ArtInstitute6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="640" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIDZ4vMeqdckQOS02KNoQnbsLqW5-cD1rmUNJikjDBG0I8SQNiURf7Mu3XZS2cEeO9AFdaScHeqtpy5XffUJfm-JclAiWriDUAyfzo0gq8jEII3GRcjfVIl05kP2zZBeuDpkzMAmbN94knFAVuseT4P3vzgzW2gnVUFB1d8P_iwD-_MXHfZ_WALEykD5E/w640-h414/ArtInstitute6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><div>I always love visiting the <a href="https://www.artic.edu/">Art Institute of Chicago</a>--it's a stunning building in Grant Park, founded in 1879--one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. The museum features nearly 300,000 works of art and over 30 special exhibitions yearly. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>AIRE Ancient Baths</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicGXkPKRfA-_YAB0WMcUsPRxsv11yorIwv2H_UpK7j-ZJHW6Lj4m31DbGID6QbR70dFeQrkgm_CLtzWjNVW8aNstQDpwf51q4vanbaWYfHHFIZ-xmhLX8Az47Td-k8R1pSWuwrVxtGor65aab91cXGSEkvs6ukMGzClZaJ0BLv_4pus2cqBzpg0Idtjk8/s640/aire.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicGXkPKRfA-_YAB0WMcUsPRxsv11yorIwv2H_UpK7j-ZJHW6Lj4m31DbGID6QbR70dFeQrkgm_CLtzWjNVW8aNstQDpwf51q4vanbaWYfHHFIZ-xmhLX8Az47Td-k8R1pSWuwrVxtGor65aab91cXGSEkvs6ukMGzClZaJ0BLv_4pus2cqBzpg0Idtjk8/w480-h640/aire.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /></div><div>We were lucky enough to start one of our mornings early so we could have the entire <a href="https://beaire.com/en/aire-ancient-baths-chicago">AIRE Chicago</a> space to ourselves to shoot some content before the doors opened to everyone else--and it was blissful! AIRE Chicago is located in a restored factory from 1902. The entire experience is a journey of relaxation in a candle-lit space, full of thermal baths at different temperatures from hot to cold, a bath of a thousand jets, a salt water bath, and indoor/outdoor pool with waterfalls, and aromatherapy rooms. We finished our ancient baths experience with an incredible 30 minute full body massage. The perfect way to star a very busy day! This activity is fun for couples or girlfriends travelling together. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Starbucks Reserve Roastery </b></div><div><br /></div><div>Did you know the largest Starbucks in the world is in Chicago? The Starbucks Reserve Roastery on the Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue is just amazing--35,000 square feet, five stories, even a curved escalator (so cool!). You can shop the store (mugs, accessories, tumblers, and so much more!) and enjoy their FIVE floors of coffee, cocktails, and food. The fifth floor is a cocktail bar, (serving up all your classic faves) and you can even indulge in some Italian food, at the Italian style sandwich shop. Coffee? Of course! Every kind you can image, and specialty coffees you won't find at any other Starbucks. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUi4nwM5t3LEEJQFhbvuwy4bnlP0kXW7OmObQHS2bxAhpFpb0VSoDEs5bDXOvc6tjmavCdHvb8hfhp6QAX3zI3KZWsnIhFok8x_SaSlQXZN3dJ0jJwWm5-IvmHRD6ACkaUnVXCAzaznqcSg9Ry-h_ae93qdYi_FRGCh8tSNfnpdMADw21rrAC-dEr0q5I/s1024/starbucks.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="819" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUi4nwM5t3LEEJQFhbvuwy4bnlP0kXW7OmObQHS2bxAhpFpb0VSoDEs5bDXOvc6tjmavCdHvb8hfhp6QAX3zI3KZWsnIhFok8x_SaSlQXZN3dJ0jJwWm5-IvmHRD6ACkaUnVXCAzaznqcSg9Ry-h_ae93qdYi_FRGCh8tSNfnpdMADw21rrAC-dEr0q5I/w512-h640/starbucks.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><b>Maria Pinto Boutique</b></div><div><br /></div><div>As part of my press trip I had the chance to experience a personal shopping day in Chicago's Gold Coast neighbourhood in designer Mario Pinto's boutique. <a href="https://www.mariapinto.com/">Maria Pinto </a>is one of the city's most recognized fashion designers, having styled celebrities like Michelle Obama! Her store is beautifully designed and the service is amazing--everyone was so helpful, and it felt great to try on her many designs and clothes. I left with a stunning leopard print dress that I've already worn several times back home--it's practical, stylish, comfortable, and will last for years. It truly is effortless style and the quality of designs speak for themselves. Her clothes and the materials she uses are made so you can go from the office to after work drinks, and still feel and look amazing. Personalized shopping is the best, and I loved this experience. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjswLE9SEN40Sjbx7KS75j9XSD-HYmPY8h2jW5VgFQITzJare283FuzRlc7lKOgr0yQlbtB4t9cBrbhqLeJ5VQdPOVWpDCwLWwZKszbjBEJtGhSl-a6JnKDWVtXAmSwxBnkt-r2jfgPCHyhWawQNH8VQTp9El28-TziYjVX2OyKkZFWDkXIkWViRWNGxs0/s640/maria2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjswLE9SEN40Sjbx7KS75j9XSD-HYmPY8h2jW5VgFQITzJare283FuzRlc7lKOgr0yQlbtB4t9cBrbhqLeJ5VQdPOVWpDCwLWwZKszbjBEJtGhSl-a6JnKDWVtXAmSwxBnkt-r2jfgPCHyhWawQNH8VQTp9El28-TziYjVX2OyKkZFWDkXIkWViRWNGxs0/w640-h640/maria2.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha61D1DoTSeWgxmJ-x6dlPfuIst3ZBj8OCf94X-2zJtMJPRbjGu5dqj0_TleLFsuw_PhatLago_8V9J7WBWJUIeU3Lf6XXbiH1WhgLbP6lQu-PiMgn7n-IhWuRj-cJQ5nndZWIljmDC_tvJCNSW1bwH2pPKL6b_IgJuynrqSWKi2sPkPEwfmVV-dGzS4E/s640/maria1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="552" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha61D1DoTSeWgxmJ-x6dlPfuIst3ZBj8OCf94X-2zJtMJPRbjGu5dqj0_TleLFsuw_PhatLago_8V9J7WBWJUIeU3Lf6XXbiH1WhgLbP6lQu-PiMgn7n-IhWuRj-cJQ5nndZWIljmDC_tvJCNSW1bwH2pPKL6b_IgJuynrqSWKi2sPkPEwfmVV-dGzS4E/w552-h640/maria1.jpg" width="552" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><b>Second City </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><a href="https://www.secondcity.com/">Second City</a> is an institution of humour, and where many famous comedians got their start, like Canada's own Catherine O'Hara, Eugene Levy, Mike Myers, Dan Akroyd, and John Belushi, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Steve Carell, Bill Murray and Chris Farley... to name a few! We caught the show <i>The Best of The Second City: Chicago Style,</i> where the comedians performed some hilarious sketch comedy and improv, of course. We laughed for hours and it was such a highlight of our trip. My sister said she wanted to spend every single night at Second City, it was such a blast. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Three Dots and a Dash</b></div><div>After our laugh out loud experience at Second City, we headed to Chicago's famed tiki cocktail bar, <a href="https://www.threedotschicago.com/">Three Dots and a Dash</a>. It's a little tricky to find but no worries--it's next to a big firehouse so we chatted with some fire fighters to ask how to get to .... "<i>Three Dots and a Dash? Everyone asks us--just turn left here." </i>They were so kind and helpful and the drinks at the bar were delicious and the perfect way to end our evening. </div><div><br /></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>Chicago--I miss you so much already and I can't wait to visit again! Choose Chicago--thank you for the most incredible few days in the Windy City. It was literally perfection and I am proud to say I'm Chicago's number one fan girl. </i></div><div><br /></div>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-15527186624642778312023-08-09T18:49:00.044-04:002023-08-11T10:36:27.402-04:00W Costa Navarino: A Luxurious Escape in Greece <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvuf3NAbRxJQwssmty8HUNs_WS_L0DX-zzbbEwnPScwN2FdkLZRChWeizYW-YMk0cru9ZWh8JcUCCafPh4DE_8wWL6Y3pVZSHQTrYh4hkbwG16JjQVcncqL9aDOQtDEeSGt2UnwrRGHL9gAgeDnbz28iON__27Sk8kpbo0BKqI7DFFGUk8RPgSNtA8I0/s1215/WCN_7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="1215" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvuf3NAbRxJQwssmty8HUNs_WS_L0DX-zzbbEwnPScwN2FdkLZRChWeizYW-YMk0cru9ZWh8JcUCCafPh4DE_8wWL6Y3pVZSHQTrYh4hkbwG16JjQVcncqL9aDOQtDEeSGt2UnwrRGHL9gAgeDnbz28iON__27Sk8kpbo0BKqI7DFFGUk8RPgSNtA8I0/w640-h428/WCN_7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">We are back from our month long annual summer vacation in Greece, and this year, we had the pleasure of staying at the brand new <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/klxwh-w-costa-navarino/overview/" target="_blank">W Costa Navarino</a> resort. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSHHddq1kAWQiPz8rldp83cy9DRsv0PCCrkqeeuFfxj6lC9ku67NtjZGJC_j___k7g-QGqiwkgYbGu-mxQBsIg7d_RWNfM0niFpvlGXCnmZwgrjHglPjs7URCZzNo87c0rSsnAHzRthf9sw5HGKJ1gIRTYV5fS7MvdD7lBosJBrJZD5aPYBvwLR3k78c/s1215/WCN_5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="1215" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBSHHddq1kAWQiPz8rldp83cy9DRsv0PCCrkqeeuFfxj6lC9ku67NtjZGJC_j___k7g-QGqiwkgYbGu-mxQBsIg7d_RWNfM0niFpvlGXCnmZwgrjHglPjs7URCZzNo87c0rSsnAHzRthf9sw5HGKJ1gIRTYV5fS7MvdD7lBosJBrJZD5aPYBvwLR3k78c/w640-h428/WCN_5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk--mqbqACaLLB0OH8GqLWQqco0ruRNG-U5TRe_XkFrrQntIo4Ha_KXj-SV5-eCBT2KQIP3gh0YAo3lhyPAGKsHY70kTRuZVUQm0gew6S7dOzsAoa0JDq7CzPdS1nIT2hJQzRXC3PDj7MagxDRAXhb0u_DZ1dOyzi2WvnIuWN63JCeyYSSzjJ4KOSdXok/s1215/WCN_8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="1215" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk--mqbqACaLLB0OH8GqLWQqco0ruRNG-U5TRe_XkFrrQntIo4Ha_KXj-SV5-eCBT2KQIP3gh0YAo3lhyPAGKsHY70kTRuZVUQm0gew6S7dOzsAoa0JDq7CzPdS1nIT2hJQzRXC3PDj7MagxDRAXhb0u_DZ1dOyzi2WvnIuWN63JCeyYSSzjJ4KOSdXok/w640-h428/WCN_8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">I was invited to the W to review the new property and surrounding areas and it was a wonderful experience! My entire family loved every minute, especially the pools, rooms, and dining choices. We stayed in two gorgeous and spacious rooms, both with a large, infinity-style shared private pool right off our back balcony decks.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">The W Costa Navarino is a beautiful escape for those looking for a getaway unlike any other. From the Navarino waterfront, to the vivid and bright design and architecture, the hotel prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming to everyone, in luxurious surroundings that include rooms with private swim-up pools, airy and modern one and two bedroom suites, and stunning beachfront villas overlooking the Ionian Sea.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0v3ElKvEHPbBUrDpK7nYRpD_7UevEp0g_G_mTlCKeGbxZ7_f4ZaxiG2IafOj-ybvyakJqrZO6KtHM5dq-KMTibtxaZrz2W-wbDKNVb4-SkJIlq-fLto7F52lbtnUkQaSRMs8As3h5G8NWhKAYxCw5zwo6kVdWu-wTGgNOCsG1x_gHQxu5WcMdval7KY/s1215/WCN_3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="1215" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk0v3ElKvEHPbBUrDpK7nYRpD_7UevEp0g_G_mTlCKeGbxZ7_f4ZaxiG2IafOj-ybvyakJqrZO6KtHM5dq-KMTibtxaZrz2W-wbDKNVb4-SkJIlq-fLto7F52lbtnUkQaSRMs8As3h5G8NWhKAYxCw5zwo6kVdWu-wTGgNOCsG1x_gHQxu5WcMdval7KY/w640-h428/WCN_3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you're planning on visiting Greece this year or next, you should definitely visit the W Costa Navarino. This area in the southwest Peloponnese is one of the most unspoiled and breathtaking areas in Greece, surrounded by crystal clear beaches.<span> Costa Navarino is also home to three other 5-star deluxe
hotels: The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, The Westin Resort, and the
Mandarin Oriental. It is also home to two spa centres, (Anazoe Spa and Away
Spa) four signature golf courses, over 20 dining venues, a wide range of
sports, outdoor and cultural activities, and an array of 5-star services.</span></span></p><p></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The W Costa Navarino is exclusively
for adults and kids over 12, so if you're travelling with younger children, book a stay at the nearby Westin Costa Navarino.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Here are the top five reasons you should book a stay at W Costa Navarino: </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">1. It is the prime sustainable destination in Greece<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Costa Navarino has a philosophy driven
by a desire to promote Messinia, while protecting and preserving the natural
beauty of the area and the cultural heritage dating back 4,500 years. The entire property was created as a Greek coastal village, promoting
local culture and heritage in a sustainable yet luxurious manner. </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> 2. W Experiences </o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">At W Costa Navarino, guests can indulge
in their luxurious surroundings by relaxing at one of the hotel’s many pools, getting
a treatment at the AWAY spa, swimming in the sea, working out in the gym, and more—like taking a wine master class with wine experts, or enjoying a cooking class. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">3. The Navarino Agora <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">New to the W Costa Navarino is the
Navarino Agora, a five-minute walk from the hotel grounds. There are hotel
shuttles transporting guests to and from the Agora, as well. The Agora has 22 high-end retail stores from Greek and international
clothing brands, exclusive cosmetics and perfume stores, beachwear and eyewear
boutiques, jewelry, handcrafted hats, souvenirs, and more. The Agora also
has a hair salon, nail salon, an outdoor cinema, and eleven dining
venues.</span><o:p style="font-size: 12pt;"></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">4. Accommodations <o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The W Costa Navarino has 246 villas,
suites, and rooms. The rooms are spacious, modern, and luxurious, and some of the first floor rooms include
shared private pools located off the private back balcony deck, complete with
loungers, chairs, and tables. Staying on the first floor was great because it meant quicker access to the other pools, as well as the restaurants, bars... and the sea! I loved the large marble bathrooms, complete with Davines amenities--the shower was heavenly! The beds were also next-level comfortable, and had the most incredible pillows I've ever slept on. (You can shop the <a href="https://www.whotelsthestore.com/product.aspx?feather-down-pillows" target="_blank">W store</a> online, and I'm definitely buying a couple of those pillows for home).</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><o:p style="font-size: 12pt;"></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi829P6CRWkPRAmciQ00_upLSflqnk64NQ1KYJ3M7dWEAc0Be1CSDyh4yb_5qu7MMK7YLQ0sh33NSlRWgNtLBpjYwjVpxumi6uAbY2dKEJFLpXaIPBTYoG5bq8LeHGZ3vATBARwKCApKGKD0CWHpmklIqJjCgrQXr1ZUgm9aRYQrN0dde6kDMrxCYapWWk/s640/w1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="494" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi829P6CRWkPRAmciQ00_upLSflqnk64NQ1KYJ3M7dWEAc0Be1CSDyh4yb_5qu7MMK7YLQ0sh33NSlRWgNtLBpjYwjVpxumi6uAbY2dKEJFLpXaIPBTYoG5bq8LeHGZ3vATBARwKCApKGKD0CWHpmklIqJjCgrQXr1ZUgm9aRYQrN0dde6kDMrxCYapWWk/w494-h640/w1.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><span><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Guests can also stay at the W two-bedroom
suites or the </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">W villas.</span></p></span>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">5. Dining<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Costa Navarino
prides itself on bringing a real ‘farm-to-table’ experience to guests. You can visit the
vegetable garden, collect seasonal produce, and enjoy delicious meals outdoors
surrounded by nature.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8-AvvtGShhl54QTCuJkiZ4iVtQpP48hN4GS3KrA7Vt74_Ob_vp0R-O7W02DI0aO3MZBn5EPNdCaOipLfKq7q5LfxNjdf1D5VXB9cceE-PnwPzCzycb9aM1UBCw_EV170Noq5NgTh_CjSSev0Lj4jbetVZ_Z86lggOOLkD14R0xIBbNRSIdFSsDZ8l0w/s640/w3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="510" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8-AvvtGShhl54QTCuJkiZ4iVtQpP48hN4GS3KrA7Vt74_Ob_vp0R-O7W02DI0aO3MZBn5EPNdCaOipLfKq7q5LfxNjdf1D5VXB9cceE-PnwPzCzycb9aM1UBCw_EV170Noq5NgTh_CjSSev0Lj4jbetVZ_Z86lggOOLkD14R0xIBbNRSIdFSsDZ8l0w/w510-h640/w3.jpg" width="510" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There are several dining venues at the
W: Parelia, a vibrant Greek inspired beach club that transforms itself to a
stunning seaside dining venue in the evenings, with a modern, upscale Greek
cuisine, featuring traditional recipes on the menu. Local and international DJ’s are also part of the experience and they play music every evening on the beach, so guests can enjoy late
night music, fun, and dancing. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Platia is the hotel’s culinary space and where guests can enjoy the delicious breakfast buffet across four
areas: The Bakery, The Deli, The Coffee Shop, and The Cookery. Guests can fill their plates with fresh baked bread, Greek
yogurt, a variety of local honey, fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods,
eggs, and more. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can also relax at Between for
drinks, and enjoy cocktails and appetizers at the
poolside W Lounge—day and night. (We had a delicious wood-oven pizza one day for lunch, poolside--delicious!). </span><o:p style="font-size: 12pt;"></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBlvHnA-aSGOSdtme4hn6PZNnGDXFinDCIZncusHRTrujy9ADh8ZMZNKkvgWUQXX61TB0E4NXqI0M1F9fVS0odBxQPD3YiMrk-BUPG5WdoQoO_MUji8qOgmMyz2qvl1ktNO2W0s79jzEAf7-R6XE5h_ZCyFiB09guq0nlexGYFn3oOj9DXVqZMH2EacIo/s640/w2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="488" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBlvHnA-aSGOSdtme4hn6PZNnGDXFinDCIZncusHRTrujy9ADh8ZMZNKkvgWUQXX61TB0E4NXqI0M1F9fVS0odBxQPD3YiMrk-BUPG5WdoQoO_MUji8qOgmMyz2qvl1ktNO2W0s79jzEAf7-R6XE5h_ZCyFiB09guq0nlexGYFn3oOj9DXVqZMH2EacIo/w488-h640/w2.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">A stay at the W Costa Navarino allows
guests access to all of the of the other Costa Navarino properties, too,
including the Westin (which includes an NBA Basketball camp for kids, a bowling
alley, outdoor cinema, a water park, and more) and access to the property’s
four signature golf courses, 16 tennis courts, rock climbing, hiking, yachting,
and sailing.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Our experience at the W Costa Navarino was the definite highlight of this summer's Greece vacation, and so many people have asked me about our stay, and the hotel. It makes me so happy to give a five star review to everyone who is looking to book a stay here, too. I highly recommend adding this hotel to your itinerary for your upcoming Greece trip--it was perfection, in every way, and we can't wait to be back. A true luxury escape. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you, W Costa Navarino, for the amazing service and for welcoming us. We are so very thankful!</span></i></p><p></p>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-1327602720722854822022-12-15T12:40:00.002-05:002022-12-15T12:40:58.759-05:00Gifts to Give this Holiday Season <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz73btjHYqupWRrSHpxE4_9VtG8nc77JJqb0iXuGO5reOZtZ5UIkZxDRzqJ9z6dT2qsghChk1SZG7dYGqOGMyvo3UKlD41U8-ZHB2TWnNMqS3N9Vahp-r4Wrl_vJDwewd2GMuyAeDCemOHgvGEcgzZEiyhV8BVUshko26DENTNMJYLmYi0gGyKuK2Q/s640/LZ4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="591" data-original-width="640" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz73btjHYqupWRrSHpxE4_9VtG8nc77JJqb0iXuGO5reOZtZ5UIkZxDRzqJ9z6dT2qsghChk1SZG7dYGqOGMyvo3UKlD41U8-ZHB2TWnNMqS3N9Vahp-r4Wrl_vJDwewd2GMuyAeDCemOHgvGEcgzZEiyhV8BVUshko26DENTNMJYLmYi0gGyKuK2Q/w640-h592/LZ4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">'Tis the season, friends! Christmas is less than two weeks away, and it's crunch time to get your holiday shopping done. While I'm a lover of last minute shopping (I will literally go the mall on Christmas Eve, just because I love the hustle and bustle of shopping hours before Christmas) I know most people are not into that stress, so to make things easier, I've put together a list of some great gifts to give this holiday season: </span></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>The gift of experience: </b></p><p class="MsoNormal">This holiday season, offer your family the gift of live performance. Make new memories by treating your kids to a day at the <b>NAC</b>, and taking them to see <b>Mozart's Flight of Fancy</b> and <b>Romeo and Juliet Ballet</b>. You can buy your tickets online, print them out, and surprise your family with tickets to so many upcoming family shows. A perfect gift to give those who have it all. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>The gift for plant lovers: </b></p><p class="MsoNormal">Support local and visit <b>Robert Plant Greenhouses</b> in Ottawa's east this holiday season, and select from a huge variety of outdoor planters, wreaths, Christmas trees, indoor decor items, and more. Gifting a plant or planter makes a unique host gift to give that'll last well into the new year. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>The gift of local: </b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><a href="http://www.bluhobo.com" rel="nofollow">Bluhobo</a></b> is a Canadian jewelry company that just opened their doors in Westboro! This store carries so many gorgeous gold pieces, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. I was gifted the beautiful mystical eye pendant. It's an evil eye charm with diamonds and a turquoise stone, on a simple gold chain. I think all of their pieces would make excellent gifts to give for the holidays. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Must Boutique</b> is a clothing store in Westboro, locally owned by the lovely Jessica, and filled with the finest clothes you can image! Here you'll find coats, jackets, dresses, sweaters, tops, skirts, scarves, hats and more. The service is excellent, and the price point is great, too. The pieces are high quality, luxurious, and unique. </p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Innes Massage Thereapy</b> is a massage clinic in the east end, and it's my go-to place for massages. The service is excellent, and giving the gift of a massage is something everyone would appreciate! A gift card for a massage is an awesome stocking stuffer. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyJ3aVDn_wMur4yuOUO_hqa7g9lL9q0KxinrgPKBz7sXQ2pgtK_5ppMpmbeLSwz-UWvHDLKsS8oyc4gGtti_sB2sdEBIoyvdOFkwgEe_Cri9F268bEq22-gWsnsZ1eRvqmIVlNGQmwOZGZWmLtzlnH5LKxdjiLoXUvFwOYgtzCcRNjHGEkie-OOgm/s640/LZ1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="594" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzyJ3aVDn_wMur4yuOUO_hqa7g9lL9q0KxinrgPKBz7sXQ2pgtK_5ppMpmbeLSwz-UWvHDLKsS8oyc4gGtti_sB2sdEBIoyvdOFkwgEe_Cri9F268bEq22-gWsnsZ1eRvqmIVlNGQmwOZGZWmLtzlnH5LKxdjiLoXUvFwOYgtzCcRNjHGEkie-OOgm/w594-h640/LZ1.jpg" width="594" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><b>The gifts for those who love one-stop shopping:</b></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p>If you want to check off your shopping list in one shot, head to <b>Bayshore Shopping Centre</b> and shop all your favourite stores like Aritzia, Sephora, lululemon, Roots, La Vie en Rose, and more. Bayshore also has a "What's in store" program that's basically an online wish list, where you can reserve and pay for your items before you go to the store to pick up, saving you loads of time! You can also grab a Bayshore gift card while you're there, to gift to someone on your list (gift cards also make great stocking stuffers, too!)</o:p></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
</ul><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><b>The gift that gives back:</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Purdys chocolatiers</b> <i>Dear Santa</i> campaign gives back to
children’s hospitals across Canada, including our very own CHEO. $2 from the sale of every
Dear Santa chocolate bar goes back to children’s hospitals, and $8 from every gift basket goes
back to children’s hospitals. (Each gift basket is beautifully decorated and includes 4 Dear Santa bars and an assortment of Purdys most-loved treats. So far, Purdys has raised over $440,000 for children's hospitals across Canada. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lSn-ANogQBBRIwCts6UPAPVi9TIc9z6U75apzLDMS_y34PzR4nxpafLGxdyy8DfT4jMS1AlLI9u3Rl6jAuAh92A3SoPsvWtkTA7Dnf1mQVfM2nPMr041wVa23CxkFWx9T0xE1-AcAMHXwVqljB36GC3sQboLf_mRxYHD9OKrV_a38rgx9dqYwoC8/s640/LZ3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="439" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lSn-ANogQBBRIwCts6UPAPVi9TIc9z6U75apzLDMS_y34PzR4nxpafLGxdyy8DfT4jMS1AlLI9u3Rl6jAuAh92A3SoPsvWtkTA7Dnf1mQVfM2nPMr041wVa23CxkFWx9T0xE1-AcAMHXwVqljB36GC3sQboLf_mRxYHD9OKrV_a38rgx9dqYwoC8/w440-h640/LZ3.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><b>The gifts for the beauty lovers:</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Two things I love to receive: books, and beauty products! Beauty products make excellent gifts, like anything from <b>Jo Malone London-</b>-their candles, soaps, and fragrances are luxurious, look beautiful in the home, and smell divine. You can shop all your Jo Malone goodies at Nordstrom or Sephora. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WQPzrnOeiX4EsjtjRzLs-6yjUSyxceW00erWPdB5p6w5vX4f7bqSizr3tBVex5KUPZ50oBJFbI-CygWwBSk5arSZL3s8JbvHuQGzTUNDt5C-ZRAowths7rlsxbIKsp49XFgWgSDrvXBBgK1jS0xp1hftmTOuI3GMOJyc3ZJcDWiWZhxUh_hmLUuE/s640/LZ5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="589" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WQPzrnOeiX4EsjtjRzLs-6yjUSyxceW00erWPdB5p6w5vX4f7bqSizr3tBVex5KUPZ50oBJFbI-CygWwBSk5arSZL3s8JbvHuQGzTUNDt5C-ZRAowths7rlsxbIKsp49XFgWgSDrvXBBgK1jS0xp1hftmTOuI3GMOJyc3ZJcDWiWZhxUh_hmLUuE/w590-h640/LZ5.jpg" width="590" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Vivier </b>beauty products are some of my favourite skin care products. I love their line of retinol cream, and their award-winning QuintiSerum. The serum is a game-changer for skin, complete with 15% vitamin C, Vitamin E, and 5 Peptides that help improve skin elasticity and promote collagen production so your skin will just glow! </p><p class="MsoNormal">For those on your holiday shopping list who love doing their hair, or are looking for some great new hair products and gift sets, check out <b>Chatters</b>, a Canadian hair salon and store where you can shop all the best brands in hair care, including Drybar and Moroccan Oil.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Hasbro</b> board games like Monopoloy, Clue, Connect-4 and Battleship are always a must for the holiday season, and great gifts to give kids of any age. I always include board games under our Christmas tree. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Happy Holidays!</p>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-9858804635255049512022-10-14T12:13:00.000-04:002022-10-14T12:13:57.442-04:00The Hazelton Hotel Voted Number Three Best Hotel In Canada<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimu2wHuiVMlrPbfYy9iqxogueuNeWnwjGSx1CMV4MGpIPrb-mwoc03XBP5dN_CcleWKwP4mWttKMF9JI8xP_guFPlCxnevuE8HrIuqC6IRlP3srLW315ZSe86jY_weundhpTT9R4gA7cJeQ8dPfXdo53FHPIXRd33b2N28WmXgBsGiZaHr_rLsRWjW/s640/LZ2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="551" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimu2wHuiVMlrPbfYy9iqxogueuNeWnwjGSx1CMV4MGpIPrb-mwoc03XBP5dN_CcleWKwP4mWttKMF9JI8xP_guFPlCxnevuE8HrIuqC6IRlP3srLW315ZSe86jY_weundhpTT9R4gA7cJeQ8dPfXdo53FHPIXRd33b2N28WmXgBsGiZaHr_rLsRWjW/w554-h640/LZ2.jpg" width="554" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Every trip to Toronto is made even more memorable for me when I stay at <a href="https://www.thehazeltonhotel.com/">The Hazelton Hotel,</a> located right in the heart of luxurious Yorkville. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>I've had the pleasure of staying at the Hazelton Hotel many times over the last several years, and with each visit, I fall in love with the hotel even more. The Hazelton Hotel is most definitely a perfect escape for a couple looking for a romantic getaway and it's also perfect for a best friends weekend trip, a work retreat, or simply, any visit to Toronto.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Hazelton is "Canada's first and only Forbes five-star independent luxury boutique hotel" and though it's considered a boutique hotel because it only has 77 (very spacious) rooms and suites, it feels <i>very </i>grand and luxurious. The hotel is constantly ranked the #1 hotel in Toronto on TripAdvisor (five years and counting!) and was just voted the<b> <a href="https://www.cntraveller.com/gallery/best-hotels-resorts-canada">N</a></b><b><a href="https://www.cntraveller.com/gallery/best-hotels-resorts-canada">umber Three Best Hotel in Canada</a></b> Conde Nast Traveller's 2022 Readers' Choice Awards. I have to agree, because this luxurious hotel is perfection, from the moment you arrive.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Db-6IFd9iVWuousLQscUeovo_a2km1wEn8D7DgSjXzv2-OcsgY6N4qjtkoeL9sRyZQnpIfj534OB24CHtsUlPUbIkwowBVpKNA90X5JcvF3hbyDlNbFVwAbQz1T-TXK9lG888JKQlwzSX0OMzwm9hZlx3Y5gZKXM4OCq2PxHeuJFlbdOXCVsFq8g/s640/LZ3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="590" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Db-6IFd9iVWuousLQscUeovo_a2km1wEn8D7DgSjXzv2-OcsgY6N4qjtkoeL9sRyZQnpIfj534OB24CHtsUlPUbIkwowBVpKNA90X5JcvF3hbyDlNbFVwAbQz1T-TXK9lG888JKQlwzSX0OMzwm9hZlx3Y5gZKXM4OCq2PxHeuJFlbdOXCVsFq8g/w369-h400/LZ3.jpg" width="369" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCvgU5-7uQI8r-Rtx06ZwrkSuvz4VtwWbfkWeqQs3wEAfL8-y9QO61vN4sJhlxbt9ogKBTycKE37mTNRI_EkUkm02WYfm-ufi7B0BFc6Xznjm4e3hhEZVKTRqdbQ_cbb_lC_cqurd4DMotVCef3QwTI5eA5WSNlkRGgE8y6jvHU-fP4Mnrfe12HwvK/s640/LZ4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="574" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCvgU5-7uQI8r-Rtx06ZwrkSuvz4VtwWbfkWeqQs3wEAfL8-y9QO61vN4sJhlxbt9ogKBTycKE37mTNRI_EkUkm02WYfm-ufi7B0BFc6Xznjm4e3hhEZVKTRqdbQ_cbb_lC_cqurd4DMotVCef3QwTI5eA5WSNlkRGgE8y6jvHU-fP4Mnrfe12HwvK/w359-h400/LZ4.jpg" width="359" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3ZLID8FQiE_l2WZp3EqLSrl8SnLMhKC52XywAyuK2WLT2nW2Y7kApVBBEtpH_L4UICe8Q2PkDjAk3L7xd2S8QF5754OeYtbgNXU632hLkMi3jP4mt0ZTJOCfw0TYe0GL2fw1s8foP0CeKx3zB2N-a1kMyxVHex2yyQpYGtV39pv35UNOscKaL4_h/s640/LZ1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="498" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA3ZLID8FQiE_l2WZp3EqLSrl8SnLMhKC52XywAyuK2WLT2nW2Y7kApVBBEtpH_L4UICe8Q2PkDjAk3L7xd2S8QF5754OeYtbgNXU632hLkMi3jP4mt0ZTJOCfw0TYe0GL2fw1s8foP0CeKx3zB2N-a1kMyxVHex2yyQpYGtV39pv35UNOscKaL4_h/w311-h400/LZ1.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><b>Here are three reasons why I love The Hazelton Hotel: </b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. The service.</b> Most five-star hotels cater to their guests and provide excellent service, but I have experienced the best consistent service at The Hazelton Hotel, from check-in to check-out. The attention to detail, pleasant and helpful staff, and warm welcome upon arrival, make each stay feel extra special; almost like you're being welcomed back home again. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. The rooms.</b> Yorkville is my favourite place to be in Toronto, because of the fine dining options, people watching, and shopping, and of course, because it's home to The Hazelton Hotel. The hotel has 77 rooms and suites, and all are spacious, modern, and luxurious, and many have walk out balconies with comfortable seating areas. The beds in the rooms are extremely comfortable, and come with a pillow menu so you can select your choice of pillows. The large, floor-to-ceiling green granite and marble bathrooms with heated floors, large soaking tub and mirror-mounted television screen will make you never want to leave. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. Dining and Wellness.</b> Hazelton is home to Toronto's popular ONE restaurant, where you can experience classic Italian and French cuisine, with fresh and local Ontario produce. The large patio is one of Toronto's best, and always bustling with action in the warmer months. ONE also offers 24-hour-in-room dining, and has the most delicious breakfast options. I've enjoyed many wonderful dinners at ONE, and waking up to in-room dining is amazing, too. You can also enjoy the Spa by Valmont, with many spa treatments available, an indoor saltwater pool, and fitness centre.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Hazelton Hotel delivers in more ways than one and I can't for my next stay here. Congrats, Hazelton! </div></div>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-53427177361552557732022-01-14T16:06:00.001-05:002022-01-14T16:17:12.315-05:00Escape to Chicago: Where to Stay, Dine, and Shop <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFUCLuQt1Cya7L6uah1VMIx1bu11MuzIMW-zlXTU0814TYpp5qgFWZAJoj04kotSbJhkSVUd8D7_2dt4d2vqckvb6peyWK8BNUio4hoETEDRqgvZ9YzB-Nul_t3HurOpR_eEEtXXcNpI5FFLywOG77704GLeGlRVO_Dl5-b5spMraNmhogw97wgLqy=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="640" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFUCLuQt1Cya7L6uah1VMIx1bu11MuzIMW-zlXTU0814TYpp5qgFWZAJoj04kotSbJhkSVUd8D7_2dt4d2vqckvb6peyWK8BNUio4hoETEDRqgvZ9YzB-Nul_t3HurOpR_eEEtXXcNpI5FFLywOG77704GLeGlRVO_Dl5-b5spMraNmhogw97wgLqy=w640-h628" width="640" /></a></div><p>I had the great pleasure of once again joining <a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/" target="_blank">Choose Chicago</a> on a press trip to experience the vibrant city of Chicago. Chicago was recently voted the Best Big City in America and as usual, Chicago was a dream, and I can't wait to return.<i> (To read more about all the fun things to do in Chicago if you're planning a trip to the Windy City for your next holiday escape, you can read my article in <a href="https://cangeotravel.ca/article/the-essential-itinerary-chicago-for-the-holidays/">Canadian Geographic Travel</a>). </i></p><p><b>Here are a few highlights that'll help you plan your next Chicago trip with ease--how to get there, where to stay, where to dine, and what to do: </b></p><p><a href="https://www.flyporter.com/en-ca/" target="_blank">Porter Airlines</a></p><p>Travelling during the pandemic can be challenging, but my flight with Porter Airlines made the experience smooth, comfortable, and safe. I had all the necessary documents with me (proof of vaccination and rapid test for entry to the USA) and Porter took care of the rest--I was met with excellent service checking in, and in-flight (we loved our flight attendant so much!) along with tasty snacks and drinks--a huge bonus on every Porter flight. Flying with Porter to Chicago is an excellent option, because you avoid flying into O'Hare, which can be much busier, especially during peak holiday travel. I love that Porter now flies to even more US destinations--I try to book Porter for all my flights, because I know I'll be satisfied with my entire experience. The Porter lounge in Toronto is awesome, and makes travelling that much more special. (Thank you so much, Porter!) </p><p><a href="https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/chicago/" target="_blank">Langham Chicago</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjv_3ulMx_roX-XhvKmuKaSAo9TSWeox_HMMzmp2xhfb-rgAd3RMQIulY_WnO-eJbmCDocng5bGLK_OxPRzqPeijt6v7EC1wbGzfEJcdFdVAtlqPp373dg3se-0cJOwMrns0bmwlC4sfOO_LuUrjnNrT8XcWiPDT_Jo5cRJjruRP0kGnuxF61DZ5LEe=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="640" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjv_3ulMx_roX-XhvKmuKaSAo9TSWeox_HMMzmp2xhfb-rgAd3RMQIulY_WnO-eJbmCDocng5bGLK_OxPRzqPeijt6v7EC1wbGzfEJcdFdVAtlqPp373dg3se-0cJOwMrns0bmwlC4sfOO_LuUrjnNrT8XcWiPDT_Jo5cRJjruRP0kGnuxF61DZ5LEe=w640-h628" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhp85GaBSYOTWfXra_ak0yQPPFQrcTPZHtLZK9CKawxDjkYIud4IrWKm_vj3_Njviqc5BtC0P2X0rKoH_a3UVqBvx309Fste8LoiHOt1L2XnOBtNHGAXq8iSXIZV5cAbmG9BnK1_fP2OMfzQ_kKpvY8V_5elAqCqHaV9UK8CjSBKwmU4utbTaPj6GFX=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="640" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhp85GaBSYOTWfXra_ak0yQPPFQrcTPZHtLZK9CKawxDjkYIud4IrWKm_vj3_Njviqc5BtC0P2X0rKoH_a3UVqBvx309Fste8LoiHOt1L2XnOBtNHGAXq8iSXIZV5cAbmG9BnK1_fP2OMfzQ_kKpvY8V_5elAqCqHaV9UK8CjSBKwmU4utbTaPj6GFX=w640-h620" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdlMYRw-cOJZjRZhqhnnBpV_kCZT_0ouIH1uK-RUAT1o6pkP-L1vfTwx9iU2HyzONiALwvz4P8xhGxkamhR2hDswKaUUa5o0-n7oPyZ-zgjlxv3SK9ke4E-VGD2Y7odW9svmdz8ynO8DEBNC4-sf5aXdN8pySjD8Gj08bQ9xqtR-_jGRSSaZAqiGKr=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="640" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdlMYRw-cOJZjRZhqhnnBpV_kCZT_0ouIH1uK-RUAT1o6pkP-L1vfTwx9iU2HyzONiALwvz4P8xhGxkamhR2hDswKaUUa5o0-n7oPyZ-zgjlxv3SK9ke4E-VGD2Y7odW9svmdz8ynO8DEBNC4-sf5aXdN8pySjD8Gj08bQ9xqtR-_jGRSSaZAqiGKr=w640-h620" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUZDb9O34V9O2fW9JizOKq_-FXMg3kirpupQfdZQe2_Uo64QWhkd4MsXd8Hdv-POS5y8wdxj7DJ6HVokGVt51KyX8Yblh3Kt3KE-zPA5HxxbM9ymvpZhZW_QP_LuXE5n9rgMxFel6Vp8xRkxGQWpDnVF2SOl0YsD0uXNcPGaROFXTCvOzFhTmXsfXU=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="618" data-original-width="640" height="618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUZDb9O34V9O2fW9JizOKq_-FXMg3kirpupQfdZQe2_Uo64QWhkd4MsXd8Hdv-POS5y8wdxj7DJ6HVokGVt51KyX8Yblh3Kt3KE-zPA5HxxbM9ymvpZhZW_QP_LuXE5n9rgMxFel6Vp8xRkxGQWpDnVF2SOl0YsD0uXNcPGaROFXTCvOzFhTmXsfXU=w640-h618" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgcJENHvWSmEfRQBhWz_DIi--l1PLFnHC-WUDnVBwflkpzchgtaoq8g85o-S7sv7AHiV5MxmrVToHpP4uJh2kXEaqiceSpLbBQk8xG_C1YNII-vM4__VG3AMBzKNUbjOKq7hR4meKewwu_3eAeXcHu66egft26wmdFwijGyOjeC1CoS78eh1GzvXX_L=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="640" height="622" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgcJENHvWSmEfRQBhWz_DIi--l1PLFnHC-WUDnVBwflkpzchgtaoq8g85o-S7sv7AHiV5MxmrVToHpP4uJh2kXEaqiceSpLbBQk8xG_C1YNII-vM4__VG3AMBzKNUbjOKq7hR4meKewwu_3eAeXcHu66egft26wmdFwijGyOjeC1CoS78eh1GzvXX_L=w640-h622" width="640" /></a></div><p>If you've ever stayed at a Langham property before, you know you'll be met with the most exceptional service from the moment you arrive. I've stayed at Langham NYC a couple of times, and I was so excited to check in to the Langham Chicago, knowing it would be a wonderful experience. Langham Chicago exceeded all expectations, and was simply perfection. The hotel is located in the heart of the city's downtown core, with stunning views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. It's minutes away from the famous Chicago sign and Magnificent Mile, making it easy for you to walk everywhere without needing transportation. (Tip: Magnolia Bakery is nearby, as well--just across the street from the Chicago sign). </p><p>Our room wasn't ready when we arrived because we got to the hotel early, so we were invited to enjoy the Langham Club Lounge, on the 12th floor. (We had access to the Lounge during our entire stay). If I didn't have a packed itinerary, I would have spent my entire trip here--the views were breathtaking, with plenty of work stations, a writer's corner, comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages throughout the day, including wine and appetizers in the evening, and a delicious breakfast buffet every morning. We were sent a personal text message when our room was ready. </p><p>Of course, our room was stunning--spacious, elegant, and modern, with a huge marble bathroom, an oversized tub, and wonderful amenities. The views? Amazing. The floor to ceiling windows overlooked the water and downtown buildings, which was especially beautiful at night because of all the dazzling lights. </p><p>The hotel's restaurant, Travelle, is a great spot to visit for dinner or late night drinks. (My server even created a special margarita for me, which was so good!). You can also enjoy a classic Langham afternoon tea at the Pavillion, located on the lobby floor. If you have time, make sure to visit the beautiful swimming pool, fitness centre, and Chaun spa. (A massage after hours of walking the city is a great way to unwind). </p><p>The attention to detail, elegant design, location, and excellent service made our stay truly perfect. I can't wait to check in to Langham Chicago again.</p><p><a href="https://giordanos.com/" target="_blank">Giordano's </a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikmFPMxWFh21eu4zQpHdSzViEpdyD6nmBkaLH45kgXigMi5yGCNtSnv2eZofW8JxbsOAzo5tKFGYMmpthT_QNYi3MfrDbNdydoaddkGJTnGuY2Jzbspw_hC4G_q6Iix1-VpAWOca8-GmY26iwcPfF4ud013a2v1Pru9WSyY4rskROq5wqMz63kTdmy=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="640" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEikmFPMxWFh21eu4zQpHdSzViEpdyD6nmBkaLH45kgXigMi5yGCNtSnv2eZofW8JxbsOAzo5tKFGYMmpthT_QNYi3MfrDbNdydoaddkGJTnGuY2Jzbspw_hC4G_q6Iix1-VpAWOca8-GmY26iwcPfF4ud013a2v1Pru9WSyY4rskROq5wqMz63kTdmy=w640-h600" width="640" /></a></div><p>Whether it's your first of fifth time visiting Chicago, it's never complete without having some deep-dish pizza--the food Chicago is famous for. Giordano's is one of the best places to go to for classic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Just remember, deep-dish pizza takes some time to prepare, so order some appetizers while you're waiting to dig in to your delicious slice!</p><p><a href="https://www.tzuco.com/" target="_blank">Tzuco</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyd_azNbxkimuGIlm6G9XagC8JXz6MUthTjeeeTmapbw-aCup3Uu1iPYBQePxtSxxgki_Vxh_7MkNBMgTumgMBKI-CXTBXsH9tiq7bjBh5e4UaXEIQrM8i8ZV8QRoy8NEhZfHD4drRA_Da00pja1ri3upeXwzAiMKMtUAy5OFcakPIOU1VDW6hYbzN=s641" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="638" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyd_azNbxkimuGIlm6G9XagC8JXz6MUthTjeeeTmapbw-aCup3Uu1iPYBQePxtSxxgki_Vxh_7MkNBMgTumgMBKI-CXTBXsH9tiq7bjBh5e4UaXEIQrM8i8ZV8QRoy8NEhZfHD4drRA_Da00pja1ri3upeXwzAiMKMtUAy5OFcakPIOU1VDW6hYbzN=w638-h640" width="638" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjjdM2Nz5uks0wi4mSBSa2AF1AZvTURFva_xTNhgcJX848orfBl8ZljztmL72i4qsUX79lG1USpAn7r5Vl3fh6pu0U24TfFZWEhUzRD2Byim3b-ELaZo5BVY9AhTu-RgkgokuJK-nXzo40Zbkn58Mq7bAb29_ASN-OEB5-6Ru0EiwVLk0wWp8UKquWf=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="640" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjjdM2Nz5uks0wi4mSBSa2AF1AZvTURFva_xTNhgcJX848orfBl8ZljztmL72i4qsUX79lG1USpAn7r5Vl3fh6pu0U24TfFZWEhUzRD2Byim3b-ELaZo5BVY9AhTu-RgkgokuJK-nXzo40Zbkn58Mq7bAb29_ASN-OEB5-6Ru0EiwVLk0wWp8UKquWf=w640-h632" width="640" /></a></div><div><p>Mexican food is my favourite, so I was excited to see Tzuco's was on my itinerary. Tzuco's is an authentic Mexican restaurant featuring a delicious menu created by Michelin-starred chef Carlos Gaytan. The homemade guacamole, fish tacos, and avocado flatbread--along with the traditional margaritas--made this one perfect meal. The restaurant's floor to ceiling windows provided great views of the city, and the interior design included clear glass boxes, framed with indigenous wood containing preserved artifacts from Gaytan's homeland. From the food to the decor, it was a very authentic and delicious experience. Add this restaurant to your list of 'must' places to dine at when you're in Chicago.</p><p><a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/listing/athena-greek-restaurant/" target="_blank">Athena Restaurant</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnKZZB7ggaAdog6VJTCOk_vLPppMgOyNwKwIhZwOxYhSp0bRjAmPOa582lOih7aNcK4tTiDEde03BM02JeHNODZyIVNWvlaYg9XS9dT7Hvw2vwBvloMCzQWed5wTjvHzo6LMaG8B5x-_823Xh_o0OD_Beuv3Bbtp7LCD0AefMfSqG9ydTRizVhS4a4=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="640" height="630" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnKZZB7ggaAdog6VJTCOk_vLPppMgOyNwKwIhZwOxYhSp0bRjAmPOa582lOih7aNcK4tTiDEde03BM02JeHNODZyIVNWvlaYg9XS9dT7Hvw2vwBvloMCzQWed5wTjvHzo6LMaG8B5x-_823Xh_o0OD_Beuv3Bbtp7LCD0AefMfSqG9ydTRizVhS4a4=w640-h630" width="640" /></a></div><p>Chicago is known for deep-dish pizza, baseball, architecture, and diverse neighborhoods. Exploring the many different neighborhoods in Chicago is a great way to get a taste--literally and figuratively--of different cultures. Foodies know that Chicago's West Loop is one of the best dining districts in America, and this includes Greektown. Opa! Visiting Greektown in Chicago can make you feel like you're visiting Greece, with all the classic restaurants, stores, museum, and Greek signage. If you're looking for traditional Greek food, book a table at Athena--it's a busy, upbeat, and spacious restaurant with an extensive menu featuring classic Greek food--large plates made perfect for sharing and enjoying (think roasted lamb, gyro with fresh pita bread, tzatziki, Greek salad, and saganaki). I felt like I was back in Athens on a summer day! </p><p><a href="https://theskydeck.com/" target="_blank">Skydeck</a></p><p>I hope you're not scared of heights, but even if you are--you have to check out Skydeck to get over your fear! Skydeck is at the top of the famous Willis Tower--we're talking 442 metres high--so be prepared to see some incredible views of Chicago. My advice is to book your visit to Skydeck first thing in the morning, to avoid the crowds. (You can treat yourself for waking up early by visiting <a href="https://www.garrettpopcorn.com/garrett-popcorn-recipes/?gclid=CjwKCAiA24SPBhB0EiwAjBgkhq4BBwqO1el9uCa7cTpffyJF7WMTKeBNJyDkN_hMQnLt0bvM3IjQPhoC_a4QAvD_BwE" target="_blank">Garrett Popcorn</a> afterwards!) This was my second time experiencing Skydeck, and this time, I was able to enjoy the new immersive experience (like an interactive museum) showcasing things the Windy City is famous for. After this, you'll head up 103 floors to take in the spectacular views from the observation deck. You can even step out onto The Ledge--there are four glass viewing boxes you can choose from, and it's quite the experience to step out onto the glass floors and look down. </p><p><a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/neighborhoods/magnificent-mile/" target="_blank">Magnificent Mile</a></p><p>One of the best things about Chicago is the shopping. It's a city made for spending countless hours of 'shopping 'til you drop' and I love it. Magnificent Mile is one of the most famous shopping areas in the world, and it's where you can find many great department stores, high-end luxury boutiques, stunning architecture, and restaurants, all on one street. Check out Water Tower, too--an eight level shopping centre. (Yes, eight floors!). Here you'll find American Girl, Macy's, Victoria's Secret, and so many more of your favourite stores. </p><p>From shopping to dining, Chicago is one of my favourite cities. It's got everything I love: the busy, bustling streets, incredible shopping, gorgeous architecture, countless dining options, luxury hotels, friendly people, history, culture, outdoor activities, museums, art galleries, theatre, and more. Chicago has often been compared to NYC 'only cleaner', and this is very much true. It's a great city to visit with friends, family, or as a couple. There is so much to do, and I can't wait to go back to explore even more--there is still so much I need to experience in Chicago. </p><p><i>A very special thank you to Choose Chicago and Fathom Co. for inviting me on this press trip and taking care of everything. It was magical, and I can't wait to return. Thank you!</i></p></div>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-40027721346455162092021-12-07T16:21:00.106-05:002022-01-14T17:43:11.599-05:00Shop Local for the Holidays <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh9aGCj1rw1KeMH5bZByeZlLkDW3Ert39xCPIopGldBDBAiUpw91cmvegAxOCn9npZ7ewIAI7FbixbCd5ZHCPZYackTP13ssP-BIsElfb0UPb0aw4dObeN-yHs6vuiQaqLKfqbSw_tu4WelIxzL19JqFtIZ9iSRP-CZu65Wj2UrV5AC7p3fZD2AD4fv=s640" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="640" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh9aGCj1rw1KeMH5bZByeZlLkDW3Ert39xCPIopGldBDBAiUpw91cmvegAxOCn9npZ7ewIAI7FbixbCd5ZHCPZYackTP13ssP-BIsElfb0UPb0aw4dObeN-yHs6vuiQaqLKfqbSw_tu4WelIxzL19JqFtIZ9iSRP-CZu65Wj2UrV5AC7p3fZD2AD4fv=w640-h628" width="640" /></a></div><p>The holiday season is upon us and that means it's time for all thing festive--like shopping for everyone on your list! </p><p>This year, I tried to keep my shopping local so I could help support businesses in Ottawa that have struggled during the pandemic with numerous lockdowns. I was on Daytime Ottawa to talk about some great gift ideas from local businesses, and you can watch the entire <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBCocEAkYAc&list=PLuU1suLgDIUKWLXyMuXtuAKq2-I8APWwG&index=1" target="_blank">segment here</a> to get some great ideas for shopping local this season. </p><p>Here are some great shopping ideas for those on your list this season:</p><p><b>Beauty</b></p><p>Check out <a href="http://www.blushandrose.ca" target="_blank">Blush and Rose Beauty Bar,</a> where you can pick up a gift card for a facial, pedicure, or manicure. This new salon in Ottawa's south end is so cute, and the service is excellent. I was lucky to enjoy a pedicure over the holidays, complete a glass of bubbly. You can also stock up on great Aveda products, candles, beauty essentials, and more. </p><p>In need of a massage? Check out <a href="https://www.innesmassagetherapy.com/" target="_blank">Innes Massage Therapy</a> in Ottawa's east end for excellent service, in a tranquil, clean, and lovely environment. You can also buy gift cards to gift to those who need some TLC, as well as at-home spa products, like bath salts, bath bombs, and more. </p><p><b>Fashion </b></p><p><a href="http://www.manhattanwest.ca" target="_blank">Manhattan West Boutique</a> is a stylish boutique in Ottawa's Westboro neighborhood where you can stock up on your seasonal wardrobe--from sweaters to pleather pants and coats (like Mackage) this boutique carries it all, including accessories, boots, and jewelry. I love the many festive styles available at this store, and it's a great place to shop for the fashionable people on your shopping list. </p><p><b>Entertaining</b></p><p>No party is complete without some delicious tequila and I love <a href="https://www.lcbo.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/lcbo/reposado-15018047/cada-dia-reposado-tequila-19457" target="_blank">Cada Dia Tequila</a>--a premium crafted tequila created by a local Ottawa couple, and made in Mexico. You can find this tequila at your local LCBO. </p><p>A great gift for the host is a kit from Wine Bar from Afar. You can receive a charcuterie box and a bottle of wine to gift. They also have DIY drink kits, from Bar From Afar--always a great option for people who love special cocktails!</p><p><b>Jewelry</b></p><p><a href="http://www.rosegardenjewelry.ca " target="_blank">Rose Gold Jewelry</a> sells beautiful fine gold jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. I love the wide variety of pieces Rose Garden Jewelry sells, like their evil eye pieces. The delicate designs are beautiful and can be worn for any occasion, and make a great gift to give this holiday season. </p><p>Happy holiday shopping--I hope you find some local inspiration!</p>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-44813708074527695952021-09-24T10:36:00.005-04:002021-09-25T08:11:15.119-04:00The Crystal Waters Experience: Where Luxury Meets Relaxation <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5s7sHyH7CbxWXmGFw6fnHv0gF8zIhjVfH-W43ylU3DiUfvWilCEPJoSHCsdllKkX6XFBJo09N5MiD3W5ZtGynJ99_Gm3OHHmoAfV0X3QK274EI97rqhtXJDlj7i3uP0w_1QvEMQlKul4/s728/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.46.54+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="728" height="634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5s7sHyH7CbxWXmGFw6fnHv0gF8zIhjVfH-W43ylU3DiUfvWilCEPJoSHCsdllKkX6XFBJo09N5MiD3W5ZtGynJ99_Gm3OHHmoAfV0X3QK274EI97rqhtXJDlj7i3uP0w_1QvEMQlKul4/w640-h634/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.46.54+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div><p>Summer 2021 went by in the blink of an eye. After months of no travel and lockdowns due to Covid, we finalized our travel plans to Greece once we were fully vaccinated, and couldn't wait to get on the plane. We spent one glorious month in Greece, and had an incredible time. </p><p>While we usually do a lot of exploring in Greece, this year we had a busier itinerary than previous years--we travelled across the country visiting many ancient sites, museums, and beaches, putting over 5,000 kilometres on our vehicle--and it was totally worth it. </p><p>A highlight of our trip was visiting the island of Lefkada on the Ionian Sea, near the islands of Zakynthos and Kefalonia. Lefkada is a popular island in Greece, thanks to it's world famous beaches, though thankfully not as packed as Santorini and Mykonos. It's rich with lush vegetation, natural landscapes, beautiful mountains, and breathtaking blue-flag beaches, including Kathisma and Porto Katsiki. </p><p>My husband and I had the great pleasure of staying at<b> <a href="http://www.crystalwaters.gr" target="_blank">Crystal Waters Lefkada</a> </b>for a few days at the beginning of our trip for a review, and we loved it so much, we checked in again for a second stay, this time, with our children. </p><p>Our friend who were also travelling to Greece at the same time as us fell in love with the hotel after seeing some of my pictures on Instagram, and they decided to book a stay at the hotel for a few days, as well--I'm so glad they had a wonderful time with their three children, too. (We're fortunate because our home in Greece is less than an hour from Lefkada--and you can get to this island by driving, since it's connected to the mainland by a bridge). </p><p>Crystal Waters is a luxury island hotel unique in style, layout, and experience, and fairly new, too; it opened its doors in 2018, and it's quickly become the go-to place to stay in Lefkada for families, couples, and celebrities. Our experience from the moment we checked in until we left, was truly perfection. We loved our room, and especially our private pool, complete with views of the sea and mountains. I loved the clean, modern spaces, and the public pool area was breathtaking. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-nh0A4gQBF7S8U9nQKmdWR4w4Cq4QuD8uAZtOthh3PFm2InfBDBzRgbi5RsC4enNw_A7AfXxK23KNs7GODcACcpIvTDYd_wZjIm3lc_CP5HtaOERpHbRL5B5Vpu-mocwNisdYul8DhbU/s714/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.48.26+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="714" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-nh0A4gQBF7S8U9nQKmdWR4w4Cq4QuD8uAZtOthh3PFm2InfBDBzRgbi5RsC4enNw_A7AfXxK23KNs7GODcACcpIvTDYd_wZjIm3lc_CP5HtaOERpHbRL5B5Vpu-mocwNisdYul8DhbU/w640-h632/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.48.26+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJV_pnTMwDB2tJrQXMyf2hRDPifsf9jiulb81BstFfbnIoWHKtX4SBzEK56D85Zd8FndIeB0aC6ehWb6-AGZytXf37e-onoreMmpebq714-ubLjZ3kNDHJ3dpOaQ6lbQZdPKusTPOxfc/s716/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.48.56+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="710" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJV_pnTMwDB2tJrQXMyf2hRDPifsf9jiulb81BstFfbnIoWHKtX4SBzEK56D85Zd8FndIeB0aC6ehWb6-AGZytXf37e-onoreMmpebq714-ubLjZ3kNDHJ3dpOaQ6lbQZdPKusTPOxfc/w634-h640/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.48.56+AM.png" width="634" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgTadKZtmtaen7sHbgoWyQK5R_gjfroS5fNs0yUnyTiAjcFiaVJQOqwCJ4G3rBnq6lQ_j-t9KpiHzl6ZpD56MpkNsdVPErzhgDsgoFRwWbCzz8nNQlT8SpOen5ZWJx7YhDPRmDRygelI/s718/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.48.45+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="713" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgTadKZtmtaen7sHbgoWyQK5R_gjfroS5fNs0yUnyTiAjcFiaVJQOqwCJ4G3rBnq6lQ_j-t9KpiHzl6ZpD56MpkNsdVPErzhgDsgoFRwWbCzz8nNQlT8SpOen5ZWJx7YhDPRmDRygelI/w636-h640/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.48.45+AM.png" width="636" /></a></div><p><b>Rooms and Pools</b></p><p>The hotel has 146 luxury apartment style rooms, some with two floors and two bedrooms, making it to the perfect place to stay as a family, because large hotel rooms are sometimes hard to come by in Greece. The hotel also has many double rooms for couples, and each room has a unique design concept and layout, with simple, clean, modern decor. (The showers in the bathrooms are amazing, too!). The suites and rooms are all positioned to have a panoramic view of the Ionian Sea and the green mountains of the island, or views of the gardens and pools. We were extremely comfortable during our stay and loved the attention to detail in design. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIi97-Rx0J3OnykMFOh8Fku1o-crhGPp_BSDumw7hn8_eIFOH8JXJ5ULNKtvbRy2LGzkn0N5shBR9NOUizksA_XX6iTOq_4dXD1QCBeAzJW4iXUEX07tsOE79qdEfY3GPRgDepoxmt5wQ/s719/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.47.11+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="530" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIi97-Rx0J3OnykMFOh8Fku1o-crhGPp_BSDumw7hn8_eIFOH8JXJ5ULNKtvbRy2LGzkn0N5shBR9NOUizksA_XX6iTOq_4dXD1QCBeAzJW4iXUEX07tsOE79qdEfY3GPRgDepoxmt5wQ/w472-h640/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.47.11+AM.png" width="472" /></a></div><p>Many rooms have private swimming pools with a deck and lounge chairs, table, and chairs for private relaxation, with sea and mountain views, making it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the beaches. We stayed in rooms with and without a private pool, and I would highly recommend booking a room with a private pool, although both rooms are gorgeous, and of course, there are the public swimming pools, too. </p><p>In addition to the private pools, the hotel has three large pools scattered throughout the grounds, including an infinity pool, a children's pool, and a large pool with a swim-up bar, under the hotel's popular restaurant, Duende. The swim-up bar was a great place to hang out and have a few drinks in the afternoon, drinks created by the popular bartenders, who were very attentive and kind to all the guests, including children. (The margaritas were amazing!). There is a pool-side menu, as well, with really yummy food and snacks for all. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6pvgU5CGO6um7F-LfYggY9uymGZOHjHIiSgh3AWlWV0aaeQDYgOEJ0k-kx_RlndY3CkBRhjbc74GmuArKb3H8lwuTUs89OzIpUd3gbfSCjsCSkcfOucYCcaZjPEGIhEWc5hBXDkiP1g/s717/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.47.53+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="717" data-original-width="713" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6pvgU5CGO6um7F-LfYggY9uymGZOHjHIiSgh3AWlWV0aaeQDYgOEJ0k-kx_RlndY3CkBRhjbc74GmuArKb3H8lwuTUs89OzIpUd3gbfSCjsCSkcfOucYCcaZjPEGIhEWc5hBXDkiP1g/w636-h640/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.47.53+AM.png" width="636" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPdNQfqbbrn04cCjK6C_L_dusB9UJP4pzG5Y28NanytUHWLqpNaCGNwOe4eMuXWGtA6GENe3-M_0SWS-uiwwNiAJaS8fEubAajywiDmEffXxWL8sM8gEcuS8ZBBQzvlzZP9VZvBVKAD8c/s718/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+10.08.21+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="574" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPdNQfqbbrn04cCjK6C_L_dusB9UJP4pzG5Y28NanytUHWLqpNaCGNwOe4eMuXWGtA6GENe3-M_0SWS-uiwwNiAJaS8fEubAajywiDmEffXxWL8sM8gEcuS8ZBBQzvlzZP9VZvBVKAD8c/w512-h640/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+10.08.21+AM.png" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jSnZY6mKCn5X564dytW9FbmIL5lu4uvj54_S9h63LpB4tshkwbeV0W47dKrjwY1oSPZt57dSKLd77bzbFnXpqrUwVDxkLr-MoUcXBD4NXZTl8oueM6nhTnV3v6BMmBrZcc4Y6ZygniY/s709/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.48.05+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="709" data-original-width="531" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jSnZY6mKCn5X564dytW9FbmIL5lu4uvj54_S9h63LpB4tshkwbeV0W47dKrjwY1oSPZt57dSKLd77bzbFnXpqrUwVDxkLr-MoUcXBD4NXZTl8oueM6nhTnV3v6BMmBrZcc4Y6ZygniY/w480-h640/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.48.05+AM.png" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgoNGcTJx-GYIWMPaHT4r_fpK17a6y5czfr-k70dYl-h95HoHLis6nwY1YhP8PFVluCyA6eUzcLlxXx2fxJC1WpHkLAqmBE3LWlD1hMw8FQOzkOPlSprgrryFfY2zXIIaIYsFlbg0iOzg/s720/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.47.21+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="534" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgoNGcTJx-GYIWMPaHT4r_fpK17a6y5czfr-k70dYl-h95HoHLis6nwY1YhP8PFVluCyA6eUzcLlxXx2fxJC1WpHkLAqmBE3LWlD1hMw8FQOzkOPlSprgrryFfY2zXIIaIYsFlbg0iOzg/w474-h640/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.47.21+AM.png" width="474" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Connecting with water and nature is the Crystal Waters philosophy, and you an see that is evident throughout the grounds of the hotel. I enjoyed the views of the mountains and sea so much during out stay, and it was clear to see the attention to detail and care that was put into making sure the grounds are pristine at all time. The hotel is designed for ultimate comfort in a tranquil, natural environment, and it reminded me of being in Italy--it had a little Tuscan vibe going on, with the gorgeous trees and greenery throughout the property. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71cpCs0rMjU42BUFlZY3lhrfmQTnuFmKCTYoryUOOOG6dKwIm_6gYt9bLFmmbn4kBK1cVkWKXcj4iH9t8A6L6bC2_e93TPhFl92lmR-qaOjV4y8IRxgRNrdFjvt7LQz3AuBktyJDJK9k/s721/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.47.41+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="541" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71cpCs0rMjU42BUFlZY3lhrfmQTnuFmKCTYoryUOOOG6dKwIm_6gYt9bLFmmbn4kBK1cVkWKXcj4iH9t8A6L6bC2_e93TPhFl92lmR-qaOjV4y8IRxgRNrdFjvt7LQz3AuBktyJDJK9k/w480-h640/Screen+Shot+2021-09-24+at+9.47.41+AM.png" width="480" /></a></div><p><b>Dining </b></p><p>We really enjoyed the food and cuisine at Crystal Waters. <a href="http://www.instagram.com/duende_lefkada" target="_blank">Duende</a> restaurant offers a wide range of Greek and Mediterranean food for dinner, in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere overlooking the pool. </p><p>The hotel also provides a free breakfast buffet to all its guests, and the buffet is quite extensive, featuring fresh traditional Greek food, including fruits, vegetables, eggs, pastries, bread, and more. It was delicious! I recommend booking a reservation for breakfast during the summer months, if you would like to be seated outdoors, because the patio outside tends to fill up if you're dining after 9 a.m. The interior of Duende is lovely, too, though. </p><p>It was really nice to see how the hotel was enforcing Covid restrictions, too; masks had to be worn indoors, gloves were available for guests to wear in the buffet, and there was never a crowd of people gathered in any one area. Plus, you're mostly enjoying your time outside at Crystal Waters, so there was no need to worry about being in close contact indoors with other guests. </p><p><b>Service</b></p><p>Something that really stood out for my husband and I during our stay at Crystal Waters was the excellent service we received from the moment we checked in. It was outstanding and refreshing to be greeted with so much happiness and care. Everyone was helpful and kind, from reception to the bartender at the swim-up bar, to the servers in the restaurants. </p><p>After a few days, the hotel began to feel like home, and we loved every minute of our stay in this open-air, modern hotel. We can't wait to go back next summer.</p><p>If anyone has questions regarding staying at Crystal Waters, feel free to leave me a comment or email me. You can also send me a message on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/mrsloulou" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. </p><p>Thank you again, Crystal Waters, for your excellent service and care, and for making our getaway so perfect. We truly loved every minute!</p>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com1Lefkada, Lefkada Municipality, Greece38.7066464 20.6407331.174681395021469 11.851667500000001 46.238611404978528 29.4297925tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-65128152017325513022021-08-31T17:47:00.002-04:002023-08-14T17:09:47.652-04:00Adventures in Athens<p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5k4pVj-CrOrbb-E13N8-HK_OwKtvvgPtYXfbdM1gf1N3i2MRfHRugXBXPiL44TGLQ5WhkcPeNQzikvE-UeHsmnX2UegxyYWLCoZSFbR3TVlijzbNj2uWTGqqJk34FiGbdLe-gy_nxJfGREP_7Q3rZEqh-0EEcVo-CgYw_WH4VxUbZ_O_1qGe5_HnL=s640" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="640" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5k4pVj-CrOrbb-E13N8-HK_OwKtvvgPtYXfbdM1gf1N3i2MRfHRugXBXPiL44TGLQ5WhkcPeNQzikvE-UeHsmnX2UegxyYWLCoZSFbR3TVlijzbNj2uWTGqqJk34FiGbdLe-gy_nxJfGREP_7Q3rZEqh-0EEcVo-CgYw_WH4VxUbZ_O_1qGe5_HnL=w640-h626" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><span style="font-family: inherit;">After a couple of years of limited travel due to the pandemic, passports are being renewed, and dream vacations are once again becoming a reality as people start to plan their summer 2022 vacations--with Gr</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">eece being on the top of many lists. </span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There is nothing as magical as a summer in Greece. Always a popular travel destination, Greece saw a massive increase in tourism again in 2021, after being hit hard during the pandemic. Those who weren't able to get to Greece this summer can start to plan their perfect trip for next summer--starting in Athens, the capital of Greece. </span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><br /></span><span>One of the oldest cities in the world, and the birthplace of democracy, Athens is a great place to begin exploring before visiting the islands or continuing your journey through mainland Greece, because it offers so much for every type of traveller--a great mix of ancient sites, museums, dining options, sightseeing, and shopping, surrounded by the sea.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><br /></span><span>If you have less than a week in Athens, here are a few neighborhoods and sights you should make time to visit: </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Plaka</b></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One of the most well-known and popular tourists neighborhood in Athens is Plaka, also known as 'the neighborhood of the Gods.' This is a top attraction because of the picturesque streets, restaurants, shops, and of course, the historic landmarks. Although crowded, especially during the summer months of July and August, it is a great place to begin exploring because you'll get to walk through the ancient, cobblestone streets, shop for souvenirs in Monastiraki, and visit the Acropolis. Take time while you're in Plaka to walk through Hadrian's Arch to visit the Temple of Zeus--one of the largest temples in Greece. Another breathtaking site is the Temple of Hephaestus, which is the best preserved Doric temple in Greece. </span></div><p></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The Acropolis</b></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span class="bumpedfont15" style="font-family: inherit;">The Acropolis is the
‘crown jewel of Athens’, and a sight to behold. One of the most important
ancient sites in the world dating back to 5000-4000 BC, and a UNESCO World
Heritage Site, the Acropolis soars above the city of Athens. Of course, the
main attraction is the Parthenon, the large, majestic marble
temple dedicated to the Goddess Athena. It’s best to explore the Acropolis
early in the morning, to avoid midday crowds and the summer heat. Tickets can
be purchased once you arrive. </span></span></div><p></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b>Acropolis Museum </b></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b><br /></b></span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span class="bumpedfont15" style="font-family: inherit;">The<b> </b>Acropolis Museum
opened its doors in 2009, and has become one of the world’s most important
museums, showcasing the surviving treasures--sculptures, statues, jewellery,
ceramics, art—from the Acropolis. The museum itself is stunning to see, and the
Acropolis is always visible through the floor to ceiling windows throughout the
museum. As you enter, you’ll walk over a glass floor which reveals the ruins of
an ancient Athenian neighbourhood, uncovered during the construction of the
museum. </span></span></div><p></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b><span style="background: white; color: #202124;">National Archaeological Museum</span></b></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b><span style="background: white; color: #202124;"><br /></span></b></span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span class="bumpedfont15"><span style="background: white; color: #202124; font-family: inherit;">The National Archaeological Museum is another
important museum to visit during your time in Athens. This museum is dedicated
to ancient Greek art, showcasing a vast
collection of sculptures, marble and bronze statues, and jewelry.
It’s interesting to see, as you walk through the historic museum, the evolution
of ancient Greek culture through the many galleries over the three floors.</span></span></span></div><p></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><span style="background: white; color: #202124;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b>Athens Riviera</b></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b><br /></b></span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span class="bumpedfont15" style="font-family: inherit;">If you have limited time in
Greece, visiting the Athens Riviera is a great way to get a glimpse of the
island life without leaving the mainland. 30 minutes from downtown Athens, the
Athens Riviera looks a lot like the French Riviera, hence, the name. It is a
beautiful coastline full of blue-flag beaches on the Aegean Sea, sea-side
restaurants, and five-star resorts like the Four Seasons. You can also visit
the neighborhoods of Vouliagmeni and Glyfada, to enjoy some of
the finest seaside dining, beaches, and shopping, in an upscale
surrounding. </span></span></div><p></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b>Temple of Poseidon</b></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b><br /></b></span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15">The Temple of Poseidon
at Cape Sounion is one of the most beautiful sites to see in Greece,
especially at sunset. Homer referred to Cape Sounion as “the sacred
cape of the Athenians.” I envisioned I would be alone with my family when we
visited, but of course, it was full of tourists and their camera gear—but it
was still worth it. This temple was built in 440 BC, perched 60 meters above
the Aegean sea, at the southernmost tip of Attica. Rich in history, this Doric
temple is devoted to Poseidon, the Olympian God of the sea, and offers
spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. You can buy your tickets once you arrive,
but make sure you give yourself </span>enough time to get there, because last entry is
20 minutes before sunset. </span></div><p></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b>Dining</b></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 16.2pt; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15"><b><br /></b></span></span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bumpedfont15">Dining is a simple thing in
Athens, because no matter where you go, and no matter where you’re exploring,
you will always find a delicious restaurant or small taverna offering classic
Greek and </span><span class="bumpedfont15">Mediterranean food. It’s almost
impossible to eat a bad meal in Greece, Athens being no exception. If
you’re looking for something different—after you’ve indulged your taste for
Greek cuisine—head to <span style="background: white; color: #202124;">Athénée,
a trendy Athenian landmark that’s been around for over 80 years. It’s a great
place to stop for lunch after shopping around the upscale neighborhood of
Kolonaki, and it’s perfect to people watch, and maybe catch a glimpse of a
celebrity as this is where many athletes, actors, and singers go to
dine. Athénée has an extensive menu but is most known for its sushi
bar.</span></span></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">
<br /></p></div>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-40482782507328516432020-10-04T14:52:00.000-04:002020-10-04T14:52:10.416-04:00Make It A Popcorn Night With Orville Redenbacher<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_W-koPt5Mnh2UPsWPV_udsObsErySp28VOL0S8su40vRryH2NFx99oIMvZCPEaV6IeWDuoBAAkDj60qShnxsN3KjhfFkmYiwZXsyjYKR6YFH3QPC0jyjfSTr3mk_S_TB6iedoTTHWRtE/s616/Screen+Shot+2020-10-04+at+2.47.58+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="616" data-original-width="615" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_W-koPt5Mnh2UPsWPV_udsObsErySp28VOL0S8su40vRryH2NFx99oIMvZCPEaV6IeWDuoBAAkDj60qShnxsN3KjhfFkmYiwZXsyjYKR6YFH3QPC0jyjfSTr3mk_S_TB6iedoTTHWRtE/w638-h640/Screen+Shot+2020-10-04+at+2.47.58+PM.png" width="638" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Even though the weather is cooler, we're still spending a lot of time outside enjoying the beauty of fall. It's also the perfect time to enjoy cozy evenings indoors with the family watching a movie, and eating some popcorn--two things that go hand in hand for me!<div><br /></div><div>One of our go-to snacks that's also pretty healthy is <b>Orville Redenbacher popcorn.</b> We love it because it tastes good, contains no artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives, is made with 100% whole-grain, non-GMO popcorn, and is a high source of fibre. </div><div><br /></div><div>Since we are also spending more time at home together as a family, trying to keep healthy while keeping our community safe, we are doing more baking and Orville Redenbacher has some great <a href="https://orville.conagrafoods.ca/recipes/">recipes</a> that you can make at home with your children, incorporating popcorn--so fun!</div><div><br /></div><div>I just made these homemade granola bars, and it's a really simple recipe--they're so delicious, too!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGORkv_o3-_f_uC3zteSVr91gCD1zd_A20SmOoXKpDfOb1MVByf1nku83ID9x4_SkTkJuigHCI4qGOsCnjLQs4YXBxpqsbxanvsgS-d4fFEj14pPfOP5sPFQeIY2XvY9DwuLrdbOW1aJU/s616/Screen+Shot+2020-10-04+at+2.48.10+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="616" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGORkv_o3-_f_uC3zteSVr91gCD1zd_A20SmOoXKpDfOb1MVByf1nku83ID9x4_SkTkJuigHCI4qGOsCnjLQs4YXBxpqsbxanvsgS-d4fFEj14pPfOP5sPFQeIY2XvY9DwuLrdbOW1aJU/w640-h638/Screen+Shot+2020-10-04+at+2.48.10+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Orville's Power Crunch Bars</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ingredients: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>- 1 1/2 cups quick-cooking rolled oats</div><div>- 3/4 cups all-purpose flour</div><div>- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda</div><div>- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon</div><div>- 1/4 teaspoon salt</div><div>- 1 bag Orville Redenbacher's Smart Pop 100 Calorie Buttery Flavour Microwave Popcorn</div><div>- 3/4 cups brown sugar</div><div>- 1/2 butter or margarine, softened </div><div>- 1 tablespoon water</div><div>- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract </div><div>- 3/4 dried cranberries or chocolate chips </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Directions: </b></div><div><br /></div><div>- Preheat oven to 375F</div><div>- Line baking pan with parchment paper</div><div>- Combine oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in bowl</div><div>- Prepare popcorn</div><div>- Combine brown sugar and butter/margarine in large bowl, mixing on high speed</div><div>- Add water and vanilla, beat until light and fluffy </div><div>- Gradually add flour mixture, blend well</div><div>- Add chocolate chips or cranberries</div><div>- Add popcorn, and continue mixing</div><div>- Spread mixture into pan, flattening out so it's evenly spread</div><div>- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown</div><div>- Cool before cutting into bars</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy fall, everyone. </div><div><br /></div>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-91179684736595949982020-09-13T15:07:00.004-04:002020-09-13T15:07:44.429-04:00Apple Cinnamon Muffins<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTfHmrVmkcfFXvxwWEDtbBxYsg766ytTEp_DtgujDOv46hzl3XRsZVGLYdnU1gUO7kW3oqLbQB4svskljGbxImRN8pqQTpdUOnqv8Mnu_otUUXOQHL9OqgrvvkUHV6FncIoO-SI2U634/s620/Screen+Shot+2020-09-13+at+2.47.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="620" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSTfHmrVmkcfFXvxwWEDtbBxYsg766ytTEp_DtgujDOv46hzl3XRsZVGLYdnU1gUO7kW3oqLbQB4svskljGbxImRN8pqQTpdUOnqv8Mnu_otUUXOQHL9OqgrvvkUHV6FncIoO-SI2U634/w640-h638/Screen+Shot+2020-09-13+at+2.47.27+PM.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Apple picking at Orleans Fruit Farm </i><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I'm no baker, and rarely post recipes on my blog, but since it's a rainy day in September (during a global pandemic, no less) I thought it would be the perfect time to share this delicious recipe!</p><p>One of our annual traditions is going apple picking, and we decided to make these simple apple cinnamon muffins that are perfect to eat as a snack, or even for breakfast. They're easy to make--my 12 year old made these on his own. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_FOn2NM19IPctDicT0DYqPRdYXx7f8fqi-KzO3x2h34tdPfPsuGtoP9DTXjZrhOncTX8UaGDCQXPY7RSgmjY1ED1IDS_Gl0YKO09YKuikV9JtsRgd170Sze4ZIy6lAtt_hO3u-vZLNY/s621/Screen+Shot+2020-09-13+at+3.04.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="620" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_FOn2NM19IPctDicT0DYqPRdYXx7f8fqi-KzO3x2h34tdPfPsuGtoP9DTXjZrhOncTX8UaGDCQXPY7RSgmjY1ED1IDS_Gl0YKO09YKuikV9JtsRgd170Sze4ZIy6lAtt_hO3u-vZLNY/w638-h640/Screen+Shot+2020-09-13+at+3.04.35+PM.png" width="638" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>So yummy!</i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Here's what you need: </b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>2 cups all-purpose flour</li><li>1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder</li><li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li><li>2 teaspoons ground cinnamon </li><li>2 cups diced apples (peeled, obviously)</li><li>1/2 cup unsalted butter</li><li>1 cup granulated sugar</li><li>2 eggs</li><li>2 teaspoons vanilla extract</li><li>1/2 cup milk </li></ul><div><b>For the topping: </b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1/2 cup melted butter</li><li>1/4 cup granulated sugar</li><li>1/4 cup ground cinnamon</li></ul><div><b>Instructions: </b></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Preheat oven to 375F. </li><li>Mix together 2 cups flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl--set aside. </li><li>Mix 2 teaspoons flour with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Toss diced apples with the flour and cinnamon mixture in another bowl and set aside. </li><li>Cream together butter and sugar, and add one egg at a time. Mix in vanilla. </li><li>Add the flour mixture to this bowl, alternating with the milk. Stir until combined. </li><li>Add in the diced apples and then scoop the mixture into prepared muffin tins, filling about 3/4 full. </li><li>Bake for 30 minutes. </li><li>Prepare muffin topping while muffins are baking. </li><li>Once muffins have baked and cooled down, brush the butter on and then dip into the cinnamon mixture. </li><li>Enjoy!</li></ol></div><p></p>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-48700081840671457762020-06-07T14:04:00.004-04:002020-06-07T14:04:46.938-04:00Overwhelmed With Support For Together, Apart: Life During The Coronavirus<br />
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We are so overwhelmed with everyone's support with our children's book <a href="http://www.facebook.com/togetherapartbook">Together, Apart: Life During the Coronavirus</a>!<br />
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We are thankful to have been interviewed on 580 CFRA, 1310 News, <a href="https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=1958545">CTV Ottawa Morning Live,</a> <a href="https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=1953338">CTV Noon</a>, CBC Ottawa, Orleans Star, and <a href="https://www.ottawamatters.com/helpers/childrens-book-explaining-covid-19-life-also-raising-money-for-cheo-kids-help-phone-2401108">Ottawa Matters</a>. The support and kind words, feedback, and images we have received from people who have purchased and shared our book have made us so incredibly happy and grateful. You can see more pictures on my <a href="http://www.instagram.com/mrsloulou">Instagram</a> page, too, under my book highlights.<br />
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We are still selling books, and catching up with orders, so thanks for your patience, as the mail delivery is a little slower these days. (You can either have your books mailed to you, or you can pick up from either my house or my mom's house, too, and we also drop off books to those who may not be able to travel right now).<br />
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<b>After receiving many requests for Together, Apart to be translated into French, we are happy to let you know that the book is now available in French!</b><br />
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I love how many teachers are buying the book for their schools, and reading the book to their classes online, and sharing the feedback from the children. It's so touching to see how this book has made a positive impact on children who are living through this temporary reality, and who are comforted by the book.<br />
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<b>You can place your book orders through me (loukiazigoumis@gmail.com) and you can find out more information on <a href="http://facebook.com/togetherapartbook">Facebook.com/togetherapartbook</a>. Our book is also for sale at Ottawa's <a href="http://www.tagalongtoys.ca/">Tag Along Toys</a> and at <a href="https://shop.themerrydairy.com/">The Merry Dairy</a>. </b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDi3lyKeuNO_0tOLuMYKzVm9KlR3escX8eRdg5cOXSeZbmGVex79h0Kq1cxJyKA0wLmCFU_GnYGxI3q1ueinLwloCoD5JGlw8blMm-Yrk7xCWLLQj6nWeK6Hqzy_5-hAHXHlODGvEHNFo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-06-07+at+1.44.09+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="633" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDi3lyKeuNO_0tOLuMYKzVm9KlR3escX8eRdg5cOXSeZbmGVex79h0Kq1cxJyKA0wLmCFU_GnYGxI3q1ueinLwloCoD5JGlw8blMm-Yrk7xCWLLQj6nWeK6Hqzy_5-hAHXHlODGvEHNFo/s640/Screen+Shot+2020-06-07+at+1.44.09+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thank you, everyone. For your wonderful feedback, kind words, and support with our book, and for helping us give back to CHEO and Kids Help Phone.<br />
<br />Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-53040106126291817952020-05-05T23:21:00.000-04:002020-05-06T00:28:56.174-04:00Together, Apart: Life during the Coronavirus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtFZDfrXa-2WvgwrAcy7JSYLl4xA2hFRE6jmnD87QInBWiaSfwMSphUKsLrCQU_pKZao9t-hwGpIDesn4fVdu_baJzFAKdSCe5hPgiTPQ5loGqZmTN0MrMWVC0ARq1jXSk_HYzjwGPyA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-05-04+at+12.05.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="663" height="566" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtFZDfrXa-2WvgwrAcy7JSYLl4xA2hFRE6jmnD87QInBWiaSfwMSphUKsLrCQU_pKZao9t-hwGpIDesn4fVdu_baJzFAKdSCe5hPgiTPQ5loGqZmTN0MrMWVC0ARq1jXSk_HYzjwGPyA/s640/Screen+Shot+2020-05-04+at+12.05.38+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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On March 9th, I went away on a work trip to Toronto. I landed back in Ottawa the next day, March 10th, and the rest of the week was pretty normal, with some talk about things shutting down for two weeks because of the Coronavirus, and an increase number of cases in Ottawa. By then, we were all a little worried, especially for how bad the situation was in parts of Europe, like in Italy.<br />
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On that Friday, our boys had their last day of school--grade 9 and grade 6--before March break began. Well, as we all now know, March break was just the beginning of kids being away from school, and for parents everywhere adapting to working from home, getting used to home schooling, zoom meetings, cooking, baking, and keeping busy at home while trying to not completely freak out with worry about the fact that we were living through a global pandemic. There was--and still is--so much uncertainty, and fear. But at the same time, we are slowly getting used to our new routines. And enjoying more family time together. And learning how to do new things, like baking bread. (Well, my husband is doing all the cooking and baking--while the kids and I enjoy all the food he prepares for us every day!). While I miss so much, like seeing my family, friends, and colleagues, working in my downtown office, and planning for upcoming trip, I'm also making the most of our time now.<br />
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I was inspired to write a children's book, with illustrations from my mother, artist Katerina Mertikas, called <i>Together, Apart: Life during the Coronavirus</i>, to capture this uncertain time in our lives. The book tells the story from a child's perspective, offering hope and showing kids they're not alone in how they're feeling, in their new temporary reality. It also reinforces the message of hand washing, physical distancing, and staying home. I thought it would be a wonderful way to capture this time in our lives, while helping children understand the reason why we're all staying home.<br />
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With so may disruptions to our daily routines, children may have questions, feel sad, or might be worrying more than usual. This book provides some comfort and hope, while reminding kids that there is still a lot of good to be found now, too.<br />
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<b>We are happy to be donating proceeds from this book to CHEO and Kids Help Phone, two incredible and worthwhile organizations that give back to children, every single day--now more than ever. </b><br />
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Thank you SO much to everyone for the overwhelming support and love--we are completely blown away by the support we've received, and we are happily delivering and mailing out books this week, and next week.<br />
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If there is a child in your life you think would love this book, let me know! I love how many people are purchasing this book, for themselves, for their children or grandchildren, for a child they know, or just to keep themselves, as a keepsake to remember this time. Many people are also purchasing books to donate, and others are donating the books they've purchased to libraries and schools. So amazing!<br />
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We are still taking orders, so please leave me a comment or send me an email at loukiazigoumis@gmail.com if you'd like to order a copy.<br />
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Books are $14.95.<br />
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Thank you! And stay well.Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-50038612108125038192020-02-14T09:00:00.000-05:002020-02-15T21:27:13.041-05:00Celebrate Love With Local Valentine's Gifts <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTsMKZJAH_6QJFMg3ujNQ_7YzwjBCE-mWURDJOry0-PXb-j1MESzMOO3prBoGh7XeAwMcWwjdz3NJLcI56-W7CJYT4bhuTewvAPplxXsdpsE3udAGbrNzlt9A94Fjv962MvU6loaQizg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-15+at+9.22.18+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="618" data-original-width="615" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTsMKZJAH_6QJFMg3ujNQ_7YzwjBCE-mWURDJOry0-PXb-j1MESzMOO3prBoGh7XeAwMcWwjdz3NJLcI56-W7CJYT4bhuTewvAPplxXsdpsE3udAGbrNzlt9A94Fjv962MvU6loaQizg/s640/Screen+Shot+2020-02-15+at+9.22.18+PM.png" width="636" /></a></div>
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How are you spending Valentine's Day? No matter what you do, it'll be perfect as long as it's with the ones you love. My favourite Valentine's Day includes a night either out with my husband, or staying in with our boys. Quality family time is always the best gift to give and receive, but there are also some great ideas that are sure to be a hit.<br />
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Here are my suggestions for some great Valentine's Day gifts to give, from stores found right here in Ottawa, like Schad on Sussex for the perfect sweater, t-shirt, or jewellery, donuts from Ottawa's best donut shop, Maverick's Donuts, or candles, books, and reading socks from Indigo. Another great idea is a gorgeous bloom box of roses from Luxe Blooms.<br />
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I also love giving the gift of art, and an original painting from local artist Katerina Mertikas is a wonderful idea. How about an at-home spa basket with a gift card for a massage from Innes Massage Therapy, or a cordless curling iron for an upcoming sunny vacay? Throw in some Le Chateau accessories and Purdys chocolates, and you're sure to make someone very happy! For the kids, I love giving Lush products, because bath bombs are a super fun gift to give.<br />
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Here's my <a href="https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=1899759">CTV Ottawa segment </a>with all the details on what to buy for Valentine's Day! Shop local–and Canadian–and share the love.<br />
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Happy love day, friends!<br />
<br />Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-72964188942551379992020-01-27T21:05:00.003-05:002020-01-27T21:05:51.248-05:00From Page To Screen: The Books That Inspired This Year's Oscar Nominated Movies<br />
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The 92nd annual Academy Awards take place on February 9th. There are so many great movies nominated this year, many of which I've seen–and loved! Nothing beats an excellent movie except, perhaps, an equally excellent book. Great novels are often a staple of Oscar season, and this year, these are the books that inspired some of the year's best movies, all Oscar nominated films. The books make an excellent companion to the film, and I think it's a great idea to read the book, and watch the movie, just in time for Oscar season.<br />
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I was on CTV Noon and <a href="https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=1885569">CTV Ottawa Morning Live</a> talking about these great books, all of which you can pick up at <a href="https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=1885569">Indigo</a>. (My favourite store, by the way–I could spend countless hours in Indigo looking through all the books and home decor items!)<br />
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Here are the books worth reading before February 9th:<br />
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<b>The Irishman</b><br />
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This Irishman is the movie based on the book <i>I Heard You Paint Houses</i> by Charles Brandt. The movie, on Netflix and in select theatres, is nominated for Best Picture, Best Director (Martin Scorsese), and Best Supporting Actor for Al Pacino and Joe Pesci. The movie also stars Robert DeNiro. A stellar cast, for sure, and an epic movie about organized crime in post-war America, told through the eyes of WWII veteran Frank Sheeran, played by DeNiro, a hitman who worked for crime boss Russell Bufalino, played by Pesci. The book (and movie) spans decades and chronicles one of the greatest unsolved mysteries in American history–the disappearance of legendary crime boss Jimmy Hoffa, played by Al Pacino. It's a movie that reminds me of Goodfellas.<br />
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<b>Caging Skies</b><br />
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Caging Skies is an international bestseller and inspired the movie Jojo Rabbit, up for Best Picture this year. This comedy-drama film, based on the book, is told through the perspective of a young boy, a Hitler Youth member, who find out his mother (played by Scarlett Johansson, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actress) is hiding a Jewish girl in their attic. The young boy questions his beliefs, while dealing with his imaginary friend... Hitler. The book and movie reveals a world of truth and lies, both personal and political.<br />
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<b>Joker</b><br />
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Yet another Joker movie, but this time, even darker than the ones before it. This spooky thriller is up for Best Picture, and Joaquin Phoenix is nominated for Best Actor for his incredible job portraying the Joker. You can find the Joker in Indigo; it's a comic, but a little too dark for young readers.<br />
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<b>Little Women</b><br />
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This is a classic book that most of us remember reading from our childhood; it was one of my most favourite books I read when I was younger, and it's still a delight to read today. The movie is up for Best Picture, and has six Oscar nominations overall. It's easy to fall in love with the March sisters, both in the book, and on the big screen.<br />
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<b>The Two Popes</b><br />
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The Two Popes is about Pope Benedict XVI , his resignation, and the pope that took over, Pope Francis, the first non-European pope in twelve hundred years. Pope Francis, originally from Argentina, was once a tango club bouncer, and a huge soccer fan. The movie shows the relationship between these two different characters, and the book is a delight to read, as well, showing the dark and light side of one of the world's most significant institutions. The movie is up for a few Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actor.<br />
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<b>A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood</b><br />
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Tom Hanks is up for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Mister Rogers. The book features the interview by an Esquire journalist, who profiled Mister Rogers for the magazine, and the book features quotes and words of wisdom from this beloved television star. Tom Hanks is perfectly cast in this movie, and both the movie and book are seeing and reading.<br />
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What movie do you hope wins Best Picture? I'm leaning towards Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, though all the above mentioned movie are all very deserving, too.<br />
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<i>Thank you Indigo, for supplying me with the books for my TV segments. </i>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-30711266088008019552019-12-27T15:02:00.000-05:002019-12-27T15:02:15.073-05:00Dress You For New Year's Eve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These last few weeks have been the busiest ever, and Christmas was an absolute magical time spent with family and friends. We hosted several times, enjoyed Christmas Eve at my parents house, and Christmas Day at home before heading to the in-laws for more festivities. It was a perfect holiday season, but it's not over yet–New Year's Eve is coming up and it's time to start thinking about what to wear to ring in the new year! After all, it's a big night–we're saying goodbye to 2019, and welcoming a new decade into our lives.<br />
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Who's ready for 2020? I know I am! 2019 was a great year filled with many memories, including a summer in Paris and Greece, winter break in Bahamas, and focusing on work and family. Now, it's time to look forward at all the things 2020 will bring, but before that how about figuring out what to wear?<br />
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I recently partnered with <a href="https://dressyou.ca/">DressYou</a> as a brand ambassador, and I found so many great pieces of clothing and accessories for all occasions, like the most perfect dress to wear on New Year's Eve's–with just the right amount of sparkles! <a href="https://dressyou.ca/looks/5dfd2b2f8eec7c0011c10b1e">This dress </a>is flattering, form-fitting, cute and sexy.<br />
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I love that <a href="https://dressyou.ca/looks/5dfd2b2f8eec7c0011c10b1e">DressYou</a> is an innovative shopping destination where you can shop clothes and fashion you see showcased on real people online and it's easy to shop, too! The items you find on DressYou can be bought online in one single checkout, and it features multiple brands, like Aldo, Vero Moda, Rachel, Zara, H&M and more.<br />
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I'd love for you to experience DressYou of yourself, so head over to their site and take a look around! Enter <b>MrsLoulou</b> for <b>20% off</b> your purchase! Best part? All shipping is paid for!<br />
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Happy shopping, everyone.<br />
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Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-35564814718244484772019-11-26T20:15:00.000-05:002019-11-26T20:15:02.036-05:00Countdown To Christmas With These Unique Advent Calendars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Advent calendars have come a long way since we were kids–I remember our choices were limited to chocolate (and not the good kind) and windows that opened to reveal a different Christmas illustration every day. I loved those in particular, but now, we have countless choices when it comes to buying an advent calendar to help us count down to Christmas. <a href="https://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=1836243">I was on CTV Noon and CTV Ottawa Morning Live showing viewers the best advent calendars to give this year. </a><br />
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<b>Here are my suggestions for advent calendars guaranteed to make everyone smile:</b><br />
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<b>For the sweet tooth:</b><br />
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<b>Purdy's Chocolates</b><br />
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This year, Purdy's has come out with not one but two advent calendars for the chocolate lover! The starry night advent calendar contains pretty drawers you pull open every day to reveal a tasty, festive, wrapped in foil milk or while chocolate piece; a dark chocolate foiled bell, or a foiled chocolate salted caramel. If you flip each drawer while you're counting down, you'll reveal a beautiful Christmas illustration at the end. This one sells for $25 and can be found at Purdy's stores in Ottawa, like in Bayshore Shopping Centre and Rideau Centre.<br />
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Purdy's is also selling their snow globe advent calendar, which looks more like a traditional advent calendar, filled with festive mini salted caramels or white or milk chocolate pieces. This one is available for $20.<br />
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<b>Chocolats Favoris</b><br />
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Canadian master chocolatier, Chocolats Favours, has a lovely advent calendar that i filled with four high quality chocolates per day. Not only do you get four pieces of chocolate a day, which is perfect to share with the entire family, each day, you get to discover a new chocolate flavour! The calendar itself is beautiful, with a vintage holiday feel. You can pick yours up at any Chocolats Favours store for $34.99.<br />
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<b>Laura Secord:</b><br />
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I love Laura Secord for their delicious flavour of ice cream but they also sell delicious chocolate, too. The nice thing about their cute advent calendar is that it's peanut free–so you can feel safe and confident when gifting it to a child with allergies. You can buy Laura Secord advent calendar for $24.99 at Bayshore Shopping Centre or St. Laurent Shopping Centre.<br />
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<b>Godiva: </b><br />
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Count down the days to Christmas with the Godiva advent calendar, featuring an assortment of Christmas chocolates in milk, dark and white, in shapes of winter penguins, jolly Santa's, snowmen, and raspberry stars. Find yours at Bayshore Shopping Centre for $23.00.<br />
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<b>David's Tea</b><br />
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What pairs nicely with high quality chocolate, like the ones I mentioned above? A soothing cup of tea. The David's Tea advent calendar comes with 24 boxes with two portions of tea in each box for you to sip and enjoy, as well as other little surprises. Buy your David's Tea advent calendar at St. Laurent Shopping Centre or Bayshore Shopping Centre.<br />
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<b>Roger's Chocolates</b><br />
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Roger's Chocolates is another great Canadian chocolate company, and this year's box of chocolates features the art of Ottawa artist, Katerina Mertikas.<br />
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<b>For the beauty lover:</b><br />
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<b>L'occitane</b><br />
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There are so many beauty products waiting to be discovered with the L'occitane advent calendar, including hand creams like lavender, rose, and cherry blossom, body lotions, oils, soap, lip balms, and conditioner. L'occitane makes their delicious beauty products in Provence, France, so this is a true luxury advent calendar for those who love to take their of skin. This advent calendar is available in Sephora at Bayshore Shopping Centre, and retails for $64.<br />
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<b>The Body Shop</b><br />
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The Dream Big Deluxe Advent calendar by The Body Shop is the perfect gift to give the beauty lover in your life–and perfect to keep for yourself, too! This large advent calendar has 25 luxurious treats–skincare, bath and body, hair products, and makeup, in both full and travel sized. Behind each box, you'll find information about a trailblazing woman with fun facts about how she 'dreamed big' and made history. Also, proceeds go to Plan Canada's youth program stop advance gender equality, so you're giving back in more ways than one.<br />
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<b>NYX</b><br />
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Hello, lipstick lovers! This is the advent calendar for you. NYX always comes out with a super fun theme with their advent calendars, and this year, the Love Lust Disco Greatest Hits Lips advent calendar features the most popular NYX lip glosses and lipsticks. It's the ultimate way to glam up each day in December, with a different shade of lipstick or lip gloss. You can buy your NYX advent calendar online or in NYX stores, for $65.<br />
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<b>Saje </b><br />
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'Tis the season for a good night's sleep! We all underestimate the importance of sleep, but Saje is here to help us get some rest in December since it's the busiest month of all. Saje is all about promoting wellness and their calendar has 12 nights of wellness products, to help ensure a good night's sleep during this hectic season. Inside each window, for 12 days you'll find products like body butter, a crystal to clear the mind of negativity, mists, mini diffusers, oils, and more, all to help you sleep better. This advent calendar is available at Saje in Bayshore Shopping Centre for $110.<br />
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<b>For the kids</b><br />
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<b>LEGO </b><br />
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Lego is everyone's favourite toy, and every year, LEGO comes out with fun sets that kids (or adults!) can build every day. I love their LEGO city and LEGO Harry Potter sets–sure to be a big hit for Potter fans. You can find a variety of LEGO advent calendars at Indigo.<br />
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Happy Christmas ountdown!<br />
<br />Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-11548954614616716202019-11-26T20:05:00.000-05:002019-11-26T20:05:52.230-05:00Feel Like A Ten All Winter Long <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Winter has barely begun, and I'm already missing summer. The cold weather is not only hard to adjust to mentally, it can also be harsh on our skin and body. It's important to take the time to treat our skin to some much-needed self-care throughout this long season–and a visit to THE TEN SPOT certainly helps deliver some TLC where we need it most! I was invited to experience THE TEN SPOT in the Glebe recently, and I enjoyed an eyebrow wax and pedicure. The service was excellent, and I can't wait to go back!<br />
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In addition to visiting THE TEN SPOT (whether you're going in for a laser treatment, manicure, pedicure, or facial) you can also take care of your skin at home. With the help of skin care experts at THE TEN SPOT, here are four tips for transitioning your skin to the cold weather conditions of winter.<br />
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<b>Exfoliate, but not too much!</b><br />
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Exfoliate only once a week. Your skin will be increasingly sensitive from the cold and dry climate, so you'll want to avoid added irritation by keeping exfoliation to a minimum. When you exfoliate, use a softer solution, rubbing it into your skin in a light, circular motion.<br />
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<b>The cold weather tends to dry out our skin–keep hydrated.</b><br />
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Try <a href="https://www.thetenspot.com/shop/">THE TEN SPOT's lotion </a>for your body. This formula is jam-packed with coconut oil, certified organic shea butter, grape sea oil, and vitamin E–and it smells delicious! At night, try a thicker moisturizing cream for an extra hydration boost while you sleep. THE TEN SPOT also sells calming bath salts, packed with therapeutic minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. The earth-based formula promotes skin hydration while firming skin at the same time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCCxA_su2h4TLWLNaMhubamDZseZHiPTahuuZ9Io-jUr7_gqOpLC8kYgEYrx2-iIDIBj1rsTEVt7FnLM0XkCbRNb80EzNYj1OBH5dflOQemRPDGXcDq3VrMnIvalzbkiIj5ytTCm43lA/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-11-26+at+7.47.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="464" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCCxA_su2h4TLWLNaMhubamDZseZHiPTahuuZ9Io-jUr7_gqOpLC8kYgEYrx2-iIDIBj1rsTEVt7FnLM0XkCbRNb80EzNYj1OBH5dflOQemRPDGXcDq3VrMnIvalzbkiIj5ytTCm43lA/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-11-26+at+7.47.51+PM.png" width="478" /></a></div>
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<b>Protect your skin year-round by wearing an SPF moisturizing lotion or cream no matter the season. </b><br />
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Don't be fooled by the grey sky; UV rays still penetrate the atmosphere during the winter. Although the cold weather can be deceiving, the sun shines through the clouds and can also cause skin damage even on a snowy day.<br />
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<b>Pay extra attention to your hands and feet as they are most susceptible to becoming dry. </b><br />
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Make sure to keep your hands and feet moisturized with a heavy-duty formula. After lathering your hands and feet in cream at night, put on socks to lock in the moisture. It's also a great idea to treat yourself to manicures and pedicures throughout the season. The specialists at THE TEN SPOT make sure the dead skin is removed, your cuticles are taken care of, and your nails are perfectly groomed for all your holiday festivities.<br />
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You will definitely feel like a ten when you're at THE TEN SPOT, and you'll leave feeling refreshed and beautiful. I love visiting THE TEN SPOT in the Glebe! There are locations across Canada, so find the one closest to you and make your appointment soon!<br />
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P.S. Gift cards to THE TEN SPOT also make a wonderful holiday gift idea, too.<br />
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<i>THE TEN SPOT is the original anti-spa beauty bar. CEO and Creator, Kristen Gale, noticed a void in the market for an option that bridged the gap between luxurious spa and low-end beauty salon. Inspired to create something tailored for the urban professional on the go, Kristen imaged and founded THE TEN SPOT, a unique beauty bar concept that combines efficiency with high-end quality and standards. With a pinch of cheekiness and a dash of fun, THE TEN SPOT aims to make individuals feel like a perfect ten Check out their Ottawa <a href="https://www.thetenspot.com/locations/">locations </a>in The Glebe, Westboro, and Kanata. </i><br />
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<i>Disclaimer: I was compensated and treated to a variety of beauty treatments at THE TEN SPOT in Ottawa in exchange for my review. All views and opinions are my own. </i>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-33232534560726437232019-08-13T14:30:00.000-04:002019-08-13T14:30:07.258-04:00Top Five Places To Visit In Paris<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After spending a few days in the most beautiful city of all, I though I'd share with you what I consider to be the top five places to see when you're in the City of Lights, especially if you are only there for a short time.<br />
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Whether you're travelling to Paris as a couple, with friends, or as a family, it really is a perfect destination for everyone–kids included. Of course, it will be more challenging navigating the cobblestone streets and exploring the sites if your children are very young or still in a stroller, so my advice is to wait until your children are old enough to truly understand and appreciate the greatness, beauty, and history of Paris.<br />
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<b>Top five places to visit in Paris: </b><br />
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<b>Sacre Coeur: </b> Did you know the Sacre Coeur is the most visited monument in the world? It's no wonder why it's such a popular attraction, because it is truly breathtaking. Every year, over 11 million people visit this basilica, which was built at the end of the 19th century. The interior is stunning, and if you're brave enough to climb to the very top, the views will take your breath away. It is quite the hike up, though, on winding, tight stairs, so be prepared to do a lot of walking. We happened to be visiting Paris during the summer heat wave in June, making the climb a little challenging. Sacre Coeur is located at the top of Montmartre, a beautiful area known for its artistic history. <i>Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water with you if you climb to the very top. Make sure to visit the Montmarte area afterwards for some delicious gelato. </i><br />
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<b>Eiffel Tower: </b>The beautiful Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognized monuments in the world, and the tallest structure in Paris. Over seven million people visit the Tour Eiffel each year. It is incredible to see in person! You can walk up to the first floor or take the elevator right to the top, (you can also walk up the 1,665 steps) where you'll see beautiful views of the city. We walked around the grounds and sat by the Trocadero Fountains for hours one evening, enjoying the view, taking in the beauty around us, and talking, until it was dark enough to see the dazzling lights of the Eiffel Tower. Every hour on the hour, thousands of flickering lights make the Tower sparkle. <i>Tip: Head to the Eiffel Tower in the evening, to catch the sunset, and stay until it gets dark. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the Trocadero Fountains to pass the time. </i><br />
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<b>Notre Dame: </b>Notre Dame, in the 4th arrondissement of Paris, is one of the most recognized buildings in Paris. I remember hearing the news that the Notre Dame had caught fire on April 15th, and I was devastated to see the damage this building suffered, which included the destruction of the spire. We were not able to go inside, but we still enjoyed looking at this beautiful, historic building. The construction to re-build the Notre Dame continues. <i>Tip: Enjoy the walk along the Seine River. From the Notre Dame, you can walk to the Louvre. </i><br />
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<b>The Louvre:</b> The Louvre Museum is one of the best art museums in the world. It features over 35,000 pieces of art, and you can transport yourself back in time while viewing everything from Egyptian mummy tombs to ancient Greek sculptures, including the famous Venus de Milo. The thousands of paintings that adorn the walls of the Louvre are all breathtaking, and you can also see the Mona Lisa up close and personal. It's a lot smaller in person, but cool to see. The Louvre is enormous and can seem overwhelming, so plan to spend the entire day there, or at least several hours. <i>Tip: Look through the map first, to figure out what's a must-see during your visit, and plan your visit around that. Also? Wear comfortable shoes. </i><br />
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<b>Arc de Triomphe: </b>Champs-Elysees, the most beautiful avenue in the world, is where you can shop till you drop. <i>"Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Elysées,"</i> which means, "<i>There is everything you could want along the Champs-Elysées."</i> And it's true–this boulevard is a dream come true for those who love to shop. My favourite store was the ten floor Louis Vuitton, which is something I considered a must-see during my trip to Paris. Champs Elysees is also where the Arc de Triomphe stands. The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon to honour the Grande Armee during the Napoleonic Wars. The arch, the largest in the world, is another breathtaking structure in Paris. You can also climb to the top of the Arc and take in the Paris view from above. It is a serious workout, though, especially when it's 40C outside. While my oldest son and husband braved the climb, I stayed cool shopping in Louis Vuitton with my youngest son <i>Tip: The massive traffic circle surrounding the Arc makes it almost impossible to safely cross the street; to reach the Arc, follow the underground passageway on Champs-Elysées. </i><br />
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<b>Catacombs: </b>The <a href="http://catacombes.paris.fr/en/history/site-history">Catacombs</a> are a great place to visit if you love history, but it's not necessarily for everyone. I didn't go, but my oldest son and husband did, and it was one of their favourite experiences in Paris. The Catacombs of Paris are underground ossuaries, which hold the remains of more than six million people in a tunnel network build to consolidate Paris' ancient stone mines. Be prepared for long line ups to get in, because only 200 people are allowed to enter at a time. There are 131 steps to go down, and 112 steps to climb to get back out. It's a pretty chilling experience, to walk through skulls and boned lined tunnels, but an experience unlike any other. <i>Tip: Go first thing in the morning. </i><br />
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If you have any specific travel related questions about Paris, just let me know!<br />
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Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-32292362000636538932019-08-05T18:29:00.001-04:002019-08-05T18:29:26.770-04:00Hotel du Levant: The Perfect Parisian Hotel <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is no better place to travel to than Europe in the summertime. I'm back to reality now after one month away–first, a few days in Paris, followed by four weeks in Greece–our second home. <br />
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It's easy to fall in love with Paris; what you've read about and what you've seen depicted of this magical city are all true. It's a city unlike any other, one that is filled with so much beauty it'll leave you awestruck with every step you take. It is, of course, a perfect city for lovers, but equally wonderful to experience with the entire family, especially if you love history, culture, fine dining, and breathtaking museums. Of course, the shopping is excellent, too!<br />
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I saw Paris for the first time last summer, on my return from my Portugal press trip. Earlier this year, my husband had the chance to visit Paris on a work trip. We decided to take our children this summer, before we went to Greece. It was the best decision ever. Our boys are at an age where travel and exploration are easy in different countries; at 14 and 11 years old, they're already so well-travelled and truly enjoy the experiences that come with visiting new countries.<br />
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The beauty of visiting Paris is all the things you will discover for yourself along the journey; it's about the memories you'll make with your family, more than anything else. Immerse yourself in the history, read about where you are, and enjoy it all—the sights, the tastes, and the sounds.<br />
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I'll be writing a post about all the must-see places to visit in Paris and another post about travel tips for Greece, but for now, I wanted to talk about the most perfect Parisian hotel that we stayed at, which made our Paris trip that much more memorable.<br />
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<strong>Where to stay</strong><br />
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There are countless options of where to stay when you're visiting Paris. We wanted to stay somewhere close to Notre Dame Cathedral, but somewhere that would give us the most "Parisian" experience during our three days in the city.<br />
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I've always dreamed of staying somewhere in Paris where I'd be surrounded by little bakeries and restaurants; a place where windows open up to the city below. This dream became a reality for me at the <a href="http://www.hoteldulevant.com/en/">Hotel du Levant</a>.<br />
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This boutique hotel in the heart of Paris' charming 5th arrondissement has been open for over 100 years, and the fourth generation of the same family still manages the Hotel du Levant. In the heart of the Latin Quarter, between the Seine and Boulevard Saint-Germain, the hotel offers so much to visitors, from a lobby filled with books and games, to the most delicious breakfast buffet, with fresh food brought in every morning from local farms. We were given a true taste of the Parisian life during our stay at this hotel. <br />
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Our hotel room view, from the first floor, was so pretty–my favourite part of our stay at Hotel du Levant. Our room was large enough for my family of four, and had three beds (two single beds and one king-sized bed) and a spacious, modern bathroom. If you're looking for somewhere to stay in Paris, this is where I recommend. Perfect location, excellent service, and a fresh and delicious breakfast buffet that you'll remember even after you've checked out.<br />
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For more information on this beautiful boutique hotel, visit <a href="http://www.hoteldulevant.com/en/">Hotel du Levant</a>.<br />
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Thank you for the experience, Hotel du Levant. We can't wait to visit again!Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-8096258136346357222019-05-27T17:06:00.001-04:002019-05-27T17:20:20.384-04:00From Consultation to Results: My Experience With Juvéderm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW8xZsIYdG_lXwUTa4iDcE0FCd-JoxjuP1D0c-3ZujjF8E-U9Ar-JVD_6bm8Pb6pC7TkoMYagqepeP1eLWFnUs7v62Sdaf4WZFey9mOYB4_79H52o49EMYtyLo4J3FVMvcwObPFYnyIvY/s1600/IMG_7853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="750" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW8xZsIYdG_lXwUTa4iDcE0FCd-JoxjuP1D0c-3ZujjF8E-U9Ar-JVD_6bm8Pb6pC7TkoMYagqepeP1eLWFnUs7v62Sdaf4WZFey9mOYB4_79H52o49EMYtyLo4J3FVMvcwObPFYnyIvY/s640/IMG_7853.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<i>Disclosure: I have partnered with Allergen Inc. and </i><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Juvéderm for this campaign, and have received treatment and </span>monetary</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i> compensation. All views and opinions are my own.</i> </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If yo<span style="font-family: inherit;">u're on the fence about </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white;">Juvéderm </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">let me put your mind at ease–over the course of several months, I had the </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">opportunity<span style="font-family: inherit;"> to experience </span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Juvéderm</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>fillers with <a href="https://www.tosonimd.com/">Dr. Caronline Tosoni</a>, and I loved my experience. She is one of </span>the<span style="font-family: inherit;"> best cosmetic physicians in Ottawa, and after seeing her several times for consultations and treatments, I can see why she's so loved in this city. Many </span>people <span style="font-family: inherit;">I know go to Dr. Tosoni, </span>including several of my close friends. Her professionalism and expertise can't be beat!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">A</span><span style="background-color: white;">ll the doubts I had prior to making my appointment with Dr. Tosoni were put to rest after <a href="https://loulousviews.blogspot.com/2019/02/enhancing-your-natural-beauty-with.html">my first visit </a>with her. My initial fear was the pain from the needles, and wondering if anything would go wrong. I was also worried about doing something to myself that would leave me unrecognizable, or changed in a way that would cause me regret. Well, I'm happy to report there was no pain with any of my treatments (at the most, I'd say a few seconds of discomfort) and I look exactly the same–only better.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I'm a big supporter of people doing things to help themselves look and feel better. There is nothing more amazing than shining from within and being confident. From eating well to working out, to doing our hair and getting </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Juvéderm</span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>fillers–the things we do to feel good about ourselves are some of the ways that contribute to being outwardly confident and happy. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">I wanted to reduce some of the lines I was noticing on my face; around my lips and on my forehead. Dr. Tosoni recommended </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Juvéderm fillers for around my lip and nose area. The <a href="http://loulousviews.blogspot.com/2019/03/beauty-enhanced-my-journey-with-juvederm_21.html">results</a> of </span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Juvéderm are instant, which is amazing–</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I loved the results! </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">
To find out more about treatment options and how facial fillers can work for you, try th<span style="font-family: inherit;">e </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;"><b>Juvéderm Visualizer </b></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;">and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;"><b>Virtual Mirror app</b></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">. The application </span>tracks<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> facial features </span>like<span style="font-family: inherit;"> wrinkles, folds, and loss of </span>volume<span style="font-family: inherit;">, and performs a life-like 3D simulation of clinically-calibrated changes to the skin so you can see, as if looking at your own reflection in a mirror, how treatment can impact your appearance. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Once<span style="font-family: inherit;"> you decide to try injectable treatments, you should follow the ABC's of patient safety to ensure you're </span>getting<span style="font-family: inherit;"> the best possible treatment: </span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">A. Ask about the treatment facts. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">B. Be aware of the treatment you're getting, where you are </span>getting<span style="font-family: inherit;"> it, and by </span>whom<span style="font-family: inherit;">. Always seek the advice of a trained cosmetic physician. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">C. Consultation with a trained cosmetic physician to ensure best treatment. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Juvéderm can last for up to 24 months, depending on which products you're using. The treatment is also </span>reversible<span style="font-family: inherit;">. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">When it comes to a woman's journey with facial fillers, it's really all about a customized approach–everyone has different wants and needs and you can decide on the treatment that's right for you during your consultation. I requested a minimal amount be used for my treatments, and was extremely pleased with the result. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you have any questions for me, I'd be happy to answer them for you. I have been 100% satisfied with my </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">Juvéderm</span><span style="background-color: white;"> treatments, and I'm so happy I met Dr. Tosoni. </span>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-26114095735427014732019-05-12T12:29:00.002-04:002019-05-12T12:36:45.719-04:00Take Me Back To Chicago<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<em>"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop to look around every once in a while, you could miss it."</em> <br />
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We're all familiar with this line from the classic movie, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, which took place in Chicago—the famous city I got to experience for the first time on a recent press trip. I was so fortunate to be travelling with some wonderful Canadian journalists, led by the most professional (and fun) PR firm, Fathom Co. (hi, Mark and Laura!) and hosted by Choose Chicago.<br />
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Chicago—I <em>definitely</em> choose you!<br />
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Some cities leave me yearning for more; I feel this way about New York City, and I feel this way about Chicago now. My first time visiting the Windy City left quite an impression on me, even though I was only there for a few days. I explored as much as I could, making good use of my time from morning to night. I walked around Millennium Park, took my picture by the famous "bean", watched Hamilton for the first time, (more on that later, because, <em>oh-my-God</em>, Hamilton!) dined at incredible restaurants, explored some art galleries, and ate deep-dish pizza. (<em>Worth. Every. Bite</em>).<br />
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I even walked on The Ledge of Skydeck, 103 floors up, where I saw the most incredible views of the city, high above the clouds, on a crystal-clear sunny morning. Fun fact: you can actually see four states from the top. The view was breathtaking–and I wasn't scared at all!<br />
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Chicago, one of the largest cities in the United States, on Lake Michigan—well-known for its incredible architecture, delicious dining options, theatre, and museums—is a perfect place to visit for everyone, including families, couples, and friends. 2019 is definitely the year to visit Chicago, for a number of reasons: It's the "Year of Chicago Theatre", <a href="http://www.hamiltonexhibition.com/">Hamilton: The Exhibition</a> is officially open, and Chicago is home to the James Beard Awards until 2027–dubbed 'the Oscars of the food world.'<br />
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<b>Here are my suggestions for where to stay and what to do during your trip to Chicago:</b><br />
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<b>The Blackstone Hotel: </b>I had the pleasure of staying at <a href="https://www.theblackstonehotel.com/?scid=bb1a189a-fec3-4d19-a255-54ba596febe2"><b>The Blackstone Hotel</b></a> during my recent trip. This historic hotel first opened in 1910, and has hosted many former Presidents, including JFK. (He happened to be eating Boston Clam Chowder in the 10th floor suite that we had the chance to explore, when he heard the news of the Cuban Missile Crisis). The suite even has an escape route so guests could come and go without being seen.<br />
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The term 'smoke-filled' room originated at The Blackstone Hotel, too, in the infamous 'smoke-filled' suite, after a group of US Senators gathered to arrange the nomination of Warren G. Harding as the Republican candidate for President in 1920. I loved the stunning lobby in The Blackstone Hotel, a lobby with history; President Truman used to hang out in the lobby, playing piano and drink bourbon late into the evenings.<br />
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The lobby of this historic hotel is filled with art and historical pieces, and the guest rooms are modern, clean, and very spacious. My view of Lake Michigan was breathtaking, as was the morning sunshine that filled my room. I loved the Crystal Ballroom, the 5th floor Art Hall, and the location of the hotel–just a short walk from Grant Park, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago.<br />
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<b>What to do</b><br />
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<b>Chicago's First Lady Architecture River Cruise: </b> Everyone kept telling me Chicago is "like New York City, but so much cleaner" and they were 100% correct. I was in awe of how clean this beautiful city was, and even more fascinated by the beauty of the water close to the city's edge; the water looked as blue as the ocean, so really, Chicago has everything I love in one location: a big-city vibe that's alive at night, with so much to explore, plus the tranquility of blue water surrounding me. A great way to see the city is through a river cruise, where you'll learn about the architectural landscape surrounding you, and the history of the skyscrapers. This is considered the top tour in Chicago and one of the top ten tours in the United States, so it's not to be missed, especially if it's your first time in the city.<br />
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<b>Millennium Park and Cloud Gate: </b>Cloud Gate is the official name of the famous "bean" sculpture that everyone visits to snap a selfie with. Inspired by liquid mercury and meant to reflect the city's skyline, it's one of the largest pieces of art of its kind in the world, and a definite attraction for both tourists and locals alike. I walked among crowds of people happily snapping their picture with the "bean", and enjoyed the park and all the pretty open green space. It's what sets Chicago from other cities, I think.<br />
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<b>The Ledge at Skydeck:</b> We had the opportunity to enjoy an early morning private breakfast at <a href="https://theskydeck.com/">The Ledge at Skydeck</a>, which was an amazing experience atop the Willis Tower. It was so much fun standing on the 'ledge', the glass balcony extending four feet outside the 103rd floor. It's a must-do when in Chicago, and a great place to take those memorable pictures, while taking in the breathtaking views from high above.<br />
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<b>Shopping:</b> When in Chicago, make some time for shopping along The Magnificent Mile, where you'll find all the stores you love, from department stores to designer boutiques. The shopping is incredible in this city, but make sure to wear comfortable shoes because you'll be walking for, well... miles. (Don't forget to stop by Garrett Popcorn Shop, for their delicious cheddar-caramel mix).<br />
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<b>Dining: </b>Chicago is the place to be if you're a foodie; there are so many great dining options, and if you plan your visit in July, you'll be there for Taste of Chicago–not to be missed! If you're looking for a place to dine that's unique with an eclectic menu, inspired by simple farmhouse fare in a super cool space, check out <a href="http://www.thepublicanrestaurant.com/#pork-beer-oysters"><b>The Publican</b></a>. It's a popular place to gather with friends for drinks (they've got an amazing selection of craft beer on tap) and food, from seafood to pork and oysters.<br />
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Another great place to dine (close to many theatre's, so it's a perfect place to go to before your show!) is <b>Acanto Restaurant and Bar.</b> The wine, service, and Italian food was simply delicious.<br />
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<b>Theatre: </b>Like NYC, Chicago has incredible theatre options for tourists. You can celebrate the Year of Chicago Theatre by attending some of the many great productions, including improv, opera, and musicals.<br />
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Of course, the hottest ticket in town is <b><a href="https://hamiltonexhibition.com/">Hamilton: The Musical</a></b>. It was like a dream come true, having the opportunity to see Hamilton–and our 4th floor seats were pretty sweet, too! I was so emotional walking into the theatre, to see this popular musical created by the genius that is Lin-Manuel Miranda. Hamilton was absolutely incredible and definitely worth the hype. I'm completely obsessed now. I highly recommend you get tickets before your trip to Chicago–you'll be ever so thankful you did! Another must-do in Chicago is going to <b>Hamilton: The Exhibition</b>. It was created by Lin-Manuel Miranda and the 360-degree immersive exhibit takes visitors into the life and times of Alexander Hamilton. <br />
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<b>Museums and Art Galleries: </b>There are many great museums and art galleries in Chicago, so try to visit a few. The <b>Chicago Architecture Center </b>is a must–it offers interactive exhibits and tours of architectural treasures, and it's the perfect place to learn more about the history of Chicago. Stop by the <b>Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) </b>for lunch at Marisol, a beautiful restaurant and bar featuring food from Chicago chef Jason Hammel. The food is delicious, and being surrounded by art made it an even more memorable experience. The MCA is one of the largest museums dedicated to art since 1945. The museum exhibits new and experimental work from artists in all media, paired with educational programs.<br />
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The <b>Art Institute of Chicago</b> is one of the city's most well-known cultural institutions, which houses over 300,000 pieces of art, and is home to the delicious Italian restaurant, Terzo Piano–another great stop during a day of sight-seeing in the city.<br />
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<b>If you have time...</b><br />
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A weekend in Chicago may not be enough time to see it all; but you can always plan another visit, right? To maximize your time in Chicago, pick up a Chicago City Pass. The City Pass provides great deals on shopping, and VIP admission to some great attractions to places like Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck Chicago, Field Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum of Science and Industry Chicago.<br />
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Chicago, my new favourite city, is worth a visit, because once you discovery it, you'll fall in love like I did. It's historic, clean, and beautiful, and has so much to do, no matter what you love. From sports to theatre, to shopping and dining, it's got it all. I cannot wait to go back and explore it all over again.<br />
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Thank you, Choose Chicago, for the most memorable trip! </div>
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Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-41411910970260924922019-05-10T18:33:00.002-04:002019-05-29T11:02:44.973-04:00Mother's Day Gift Giving With A Local Twist <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This Mother's Day, keep is simple by shopping local for the most important woman in your life. <br />
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There are so many wonderful gifts to give mom for Mother's Day. Of course, the most important gift of all is the gift that's free: love, and spending quality time with those closest to you. For me, a truly happy Mother's Day means I'm spending it with my children and my family, doing things we love, together. A home made card from my children is always the most cherished gift I receive every year.<br />
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However–receiving (and giving) something extra special is a wonderful way to celebrate Mother's day, too. This year, I thought it would be a good idea to shop for gifts from local businesses, because Ottawa is full of great companies selling amazing products every mom will appreciate.<br />
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<b>Here are my choices for the best gifts to give this Mother's Day:</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.shoptallow.com/">Tallow Boutique</a>: Tallow is an adorable boutique located in Westboro. They sell so many wonderful items including dresses, tops, pants, and accessories, by some fabulous companies, like Swell (swoon!) and Brunette the Label. They also have a large selection of swimwear, making it the perfect store to shop for summer vacation. Hello, bikini season! In addition to a store full of perfect clothes for all occasions, the service is excellent. A new accessory, dress, or gift card to shop Tallow is the perfect gift for Mother's Day. Why not make it a date and take your mom to Tallow to shop? Shopping and quality time is the excellent combination for Mother's Day. <br />
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<a href="https://terra20.com/">terra20:</a> terra20 is a great store that's locally owned and operated, committed to sourcing brands that are good for our planet–and ourselves. They have a wide variety of eco-friendly products, including skin care, bath and body, products, cosmetics, baby and kid items, and home decor and accessories. My personal favourite? Their Buck Naked Soap <a href="https://terra20.com/collections/buck-naked-soap-company/products/purple-brazilian-clay-coconut-bath-salt">bath salts</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.thepiggymarket.com/">The Piggy Market:</a> For something unique, I love the idea of giving a gift card to The Piggy Market, a local artisan delicatessen and craft butcher shop. They work with local farmers and sell the most delicious cheeses, meats, and more. Treat mom to a yummy charcuterie board, pair it with a bottle of wine, and make it a cosy Mother's Day at home.<br />
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<a href="http://www.winebottega.com/">Wine Bottega:</a> Who doesn't love wine? Wine is a perfect gift to give mom for Mother's Day. At Wine Bottega, you can craft your own wine. If you have a favourite, just let the friendly staff know, and they'll help you create your perfect wine to bring home–white, red or rose–at the best price. It's a super fun experience and you're guaranteed to leave with something you can enjoy at home for months to come–depending on how many cases you order!<br />
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<a href="http://www.rogerschocolates.com/">Roger's Chocolates:</a> Chocolate, like wine, is always a good gift to give. Roger's Chocolates, Canada's first chocolate company, sells beautiful boxes of chocolates for Mother's Day, featuring art by local artist Katerina Mertikas, who happens to be my mother. The collector tins are beautiful and become a keepsake long after the chocolates have been consumed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6-nybYnVKayWUGTbQOIFuT0pfmjRoPWG2FuUZDvpPlPsIgckdQzU7PytPOB2gB7NeREBXPacOYbYHjxpbuV8Xf9aYSJyuOKDT4fUbjP-nxaYv54CwFZMxW1T3ebE6eLz9NtEiavltsQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-05-10+at+6.31.25+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="524" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6-nybYnVKayWUGTbQOIFuT0pfmjRoPWG2FuUZDvpPlPsIgckdQzU7PytPOB2gB7NeREBXPacOYbYHjxpbuV8Xf9aYSJyuOKDT4fUbjP-nxaYv54CwFZMxW1T3ebE6eLz9NtEiavltsQ/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-05-10+at+6.31.25+PM.png" width="632" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.luxeblooms.ca/">Luxe Blooms:</a> Flowers are always a great gift to give, especially if you're gifting a unique bouquet. Luxe Blooms is an online based flower shop in Ottawa. They make custom bloom boxes using fresh roses displayed in European inspired boxes, with the highest quality of roses. You can choose from fresh roses, or eternal roses (which are also real, but actually last a year). All you have to do is shop online, select your roses, send your personalized message, and let Luxe Blooms do the rest.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HncUzZ5Hdi4SBAZUh5KQak9gBJgmADncLdXbHs5XzUnG-C2A2mmXR70BpWYZN1qUgm0Hml1wHl43mzUIUCP-c8FJ0hsL6nWLgvtwimDlwEWJPuNustXfRzhKKnGht5hTpY9PQEAfabY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-05-10+at+6.21.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="592" height="634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HncUzZ5Hdi4SBAZUh5KQak9gBJgmADncLdXbHs5XzUnG-C2A2mmXR70BpWYZN1qUgm0Hml1wHl43mzUIUCP-c8FJ0hsL6nWLgvtwimDlwEWJPuNustXfRzhKKnGht5hTpY9PQEAfabY/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-05-10+at+6.21.35+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.innesmassagetherapy.com/">Innes Massage Therapy:</a> I love Innes Massage Therapy because there's no place better to go for a full-body massage. Relaxing in a beautiful spa is a great idea, and not just for Mother's Day. Innes Massage Therapy can also put together beautiful baskets to gift, including a gift card for a massage, bath salts, bath bombs, and soap. <br />
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<a href="http://www.merivalevisioncare.com/">Merivale Vision Care: </a>This sunglass and eyewear store located in Ottawa's west end not only sells prescription glasses, but also a wide variety of designer sunglasses, including Tory Burch, Dior, Gucci, and Kate Spade. A new pair of designer shades makes the perfect gift to give... and receive!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_g82RRCUaX_BMjIazfgm0gZQDO53VFBqCMpIJg15OurOY6vmWrL5Mc73oWn3Ww-RttxmbDC2sNMRkyPrEv4HcMg-sgzpfkxZAfY144wZnFskJxS9Q95p5ceyPikzVhvv1FRjHuEVdeg/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-05-10+at+6.19.15+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="588" data-original-width="606" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_g82RRCUaX_BMjIazfgm0gZQDO53VFBqCMpIJg15OurOY6vmWrL5Mc73oWn3Ww-RttxmbDC2sNMRkyPrEv4HcMg-sgzpfkxZAfY144wZnFskJxS9Q95p5ceyPikzVhvv1FRjHuEVdeg/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-05-10+at+6.19.15+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.callitspring.com/">Call It Spring:</a> New shoes actually make a wonderful Mother's Day gift. Now that spring is here, with summer not far behind, new shoes for the season are a must. Call It Spring is a trendy Canadian store in Rideau Centre, and all their stylish shoes are super affordable. This means you can buy several pairs and not feel guilty about it. One to gift–and one to give to yourself. Shopping done right.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CgcXfvTbrlmMOhHcu8K8RiXZHKm2wysRmVyX2pYP-qgmTS8J6J1kffJ1j6aXoiMHkgZ-hgDcvsOurba8UDunMXeIYGoi1NzHX9q3wFUmMLSKi6yuJ4CmjVVOBZ9rfcIkiE8ls15HtU0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-05-10+at+6.19.26+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="582" data-original-width="617" height="602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3CgcXfvTbrlmMOhHcu8K8RiXZHKm2wysRmVyX2pYP-qgmTS8J6J1kffJ1j6aXoiMHkgZ-hgDcvsOurba8UDunMXeIYGoi1NzHX9q3wFUmMLSKi6yuJ4CmjVVOBZ9rfcIkiE8ls15HtU0/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-05-10+at+6.19.26+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I hope no matter what you do (or what you buy to gift this Mother's Day) you celebrate the ones you love in your life, and enjoy your day–you deserve it!<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: I received products in exchange for my review and all opinions are my own.</i>Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-17182325333071537432019-04-15T20:38:00.002-04:002019-05-10T18:34:26.539-04:00Spring Is In The Hair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spring is in the air! And spring in the <i>hair</i>, you guys. Isn't this the perfect season to freshen up your look, update your highlights, and take care of yourself? I think so. I am a firm believer in self-care and I love taking the time visit salons to get my hair done.</div>
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I had the pleasure of visiting <b>Tappa Hair Salon</b> recently, where I was given a fabulous blow-dry and a lash lift and tint. This was the most relaxing procedure, with stunning results. A lash lift and tint basically lifts your eyelashes so they look fuller, longer, and more voluminous; there is no need for lash extensions (which can be so problematic) because the lash lift gives excellent results and lasts for about eight weeks. I am thrilled with the results and will be back for sure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxyOuSlSzdV9hrn7oCgJwX1VimV7tiBfaJTA-1I_iUAL-c_sV2ADScd8aSMXHd324NXxyNIuZNO_dykwbaSiyBWWiVN4QyXIpO7TM8p5Pd1FaTQk90veRFLDx7HmwBqzgQUQ0QMmhHzs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-04-15+at+8.36.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="611" data-original-width="462" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxyOuSlSzdV9hrn7oCgJwX1VimV7tiBfaJTA-1I_iUAL-c_sV2ADScd8aSMXHd324NXxyNIuZNO_dykwbaSiyBWWiVN4QyXIpO7TM8p5Pd1FaTQk90veRFLDx7HmwBqzgQUQ0QMmhHzs/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-04-15+at+8.36.49+PM.png" width="482" /></a></div>
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Tappa Hair Salon, in Carlingwood Shopping Centre, is hosting a fabulous Nioxin hair event called "Spring is in the Hair" taking place on April 25th, between noon and 8 p.m. This day of beauty is so worth it, so grab your bestie and head to the salon for a fabulous day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho64JQ_Uog6FYGwvykkLv0we9gk4gOHadL1c-g2KNT7nbZczPSbvV-R_mdlm1dAI0D4Fo8zEUn6HMldWxS214p9xFBZz7k37mogdco35dBwhyphenhyphenMKHNuB-pFJqGmqq5RmDxGALNnSqxmYk8/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-04-15+at+8.17.47+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="524" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho64JQ_Uog6FYGwvykkLv0we9gk4gOHadL1c-g2KNT7nbZczPSbvV-R_mdlm1dAI0D4Fo8zEUn6HMldWxS214p9xFBZz7k37mogdco35dBwhyphenhyphenMKHNuB-pFJqGmqq5RmDxGALNnSqxmYk8/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-04-15+at+8.17.47+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Here's what to expect:</b><br />
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- Indulge your hair in Tappa's dermabrasion scalp renewal treatment! This treatment will remove all build-up and residue on the scalp and hair while maximizing the body and shine in your hair. Hello, spring bounce!<br />
- For only $20 (instead of $50) you'll receive a Nioscope Diagnosis of your scalp and hair done by one of Tappa's Nioxin experts, a prescribed personalized maintenance regime, followed by a relaxing scalp massage and professional blow-dry.<br />
- Receive 25% off all Nioxin products and GHD hair tools.<br />
- DIY brow enhancements from Beauty Bar Experts, hand exfoliation, and lip plumping services are also available.<br />
- Enjoy refreshments, bites, games, giveaways, prizes and complimentary demonstrations from the Beauty Bar Experts.<br />
- Take home a special swag bag when you complete your Beauty Passport.<br />
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<b>All you have to do? Call 613-721-1000 to book a spot for yourself and your friend. You can even RSVP on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2178244762488015/">Tappa's Facebook page</a>. </b><br />
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Thank you so much, Tappa, for your excellent service. I love your salon and can't wait to be back!<br />
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Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-52020417495612032762019-04-15T20:05:00.001-04:002019-04-15T20:05:15.408-04:00Sconza Celebrations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDgxSGX1Xv4WRonOJGfdND-1Le7x4Hg9Pm94aMD5fFPz0ffcD4FQRjc91fBWCfVXSzqpeBRDJpQI7yDoh3EkqsuKcN205EsvSq3oZxotE4U0d_37YAuCrr0crvC5eYv2aw01e05ilRnK0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-04-15+at+7.53.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="626" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDgxSGX1Xv4WRonOJGfdND-1Le7x4Hg9Pm94aMD5fFPz0ffcD4FQRjc91fBWCfVXSzqpeBRDJpQI7yDoh3EkqsuKcN205EsvSq3oZxotE4U0d_37YAuCrr0crvC5eYv2aw01e05ilRnK0/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-04-15+at+7.53.22+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sconza Chocolates are my new favourite go-to snack, and the perfect addition to have at home for last minute get together's, Easter celebrations, and for an everyday treat.<br />
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I love Sconza Chocolates–especially because they're a family-owned and operated business (since 1939!) specializing in candied almonds. They have incredible flavours and varieties, and they're the perfect option for snacking.<br />
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Sconza is celebrating their 80th birthday this year and to celebrate this special occasion, they created the <a href="https://sconza.com/candies/lemoncello-almonds/">Sconza Lemoncello Chocolate Almonds</a>. These delicious and lemony-sweet chocolates are available in Costco stores until May, and can also be ordered <a href="https://sconza.com/candies/">online</a>.<br />
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Right now when you shop for this product online, you'll receive 10% off of your Sconza order. All you have to do is enter loulou10 at check-out to redeem the discount.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW3bJzYnCIA5X_1Qt8sfcVCGOj9wzbfPyNeDdfVUp7-J5zc9RX6YUBhUKwtkH1u04ti7xxcqgO2RBdKNdTYCmSPilOEbRlKSgF68mqcU3aROcmEzGiQh0r4LIcQPc6qnL05FSdCT2G9GU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-04-15+at+7.53.14+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="629" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW3bJzYnCIA5X_1Qt8sfcVCGOj9wzbfPyNeDdfVUp7-J5zc9RX6YUBhUKwtkH1u04ti7xxcqgO2RBdKNdTYCmSPilOEbRlKSgF68mqcU3aROcmEzGiQh0r4LIcQPc6qnL05FSdCT2G9GU/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-04-15+at+7.53.14+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy snacking!Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7231649446485548787.post-5349482333199720712019-03-21T19:43:00.003-04:002019-03-21T19:45:50.514-04:00Beauty, Enhanced: My Journey With Juvederm <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IalDYJEloy_sDVEBA2TX10Wvq4tZ-pMhy7UV-oE23pzfRZLWzIcYOILSXAguIm53tPLcEFi3yQGLpEn9fQS7TgvqxXXEwPLdQ5lPeciJ6uxyjr6qp1tXnlqygxP1wA1sqIX5QTKcvPs/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-03-21+at+6.23.48+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="610" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0IalDYJEloy_sDVEBA2TX10Wvq4tZ-pMhy7UV-oE23pzfRZLWzIcYOILSXAguIm53tPLcEFi3yQGLpEn9fQS7TgvqxXXEwPLdQ5lPeciJ6uxyjr6qp1tXnlqygxP1wA1sqIX5QTKcvPs/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-03-21+at+6.23.48+PM.png" width="636" /></a></div>
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<i>Disclaimer: I am partnering with Allergen for this campaign and I am being compensated for my blog posts and treatment sessions.</i><br />
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I recently <a href="https://loulousviews.blogspot.com/2019/02/enhancing-your-natural-beauty-with.html">wrote</a> about my consultation with Dr. Caroline Tosoni–a leading medical aesthetics expert and owner of Ottawa's top cosmetics clinic, <a href="https://www.tosonimd.com/">Tosoni MD</a>. During my consultation, Dr. Tosoni explained the benefits of Juvederm and how long each treatment would last. She answered all my questions <i>(Will it hurt? Can I wash my face and put makeup on after? Is it safe?) </i>and she put my mind to ease. I am thrilled to be working with Dr. Tosoni (and the Allergen team) so I can share my experience with my followers.<br />
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Many people I know have done wrinkle-reducing injections like Juvederm, but don't openly talk about it. Is it because we associate these procedures with an older demographic? The truth is, women are starting to take care of their skin with Juvederm in their 20's as a preventative measure to help reduce the onset of fine lines. Juvederm can help smooth fine lines and wrinkles when we're in our 30's and 40's, too. I think it's an empowering feeling, to take control of how we look and feel, and do things for ourselves to help enhance our natural beauty.<br />
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I was scared of my first Juvederm appointment, despite Dr. Tosoni's calm demeanour and expertise. I was nervous for the procedure, as I tend to be wary of needles, but the most incredible thing of all was that it did not hurt–not one bit. I expected some pain, and I was bracing myself, but I felt nothing. It lasted a few minutes on each side of my face, and then the procedure was finished. With Juvederm facial fillers, the results are visible right away, and I was thrilled with my results. My skin is smoother, my lines have diminished, and I feel more beautiful and confident.<br />
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During my appointment, Dr. Tosoni asked me what I wanted. (I wanted to reduce the fine lines around my face). She talked to me about what treatments would be best for me, based on what I wanted to achieve: a more youthful, less tired look. With a little Juvederm, this look was achieved in just a couple of appointments. I loved seeing the results from my treatments and can't wait for my next appointment!<br />
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I believe feeling great helps you look great and looking great makes you a happier person overall. When I'm working out, eating well, and taking care of my appearance, from my hair to my body to my skin, I feel like my best self–and skin treatments like Juvederm help me achieve this. It's a personal journey for everyone, and it's all about a customized approach. For more information, visit <a href="http://juvederm.ca/">Juvederm.ca</a>.<br />
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<b>Many of you have asked me questions about Juvederm, so I put together some answers: </b><br />
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<b>What kind of Juvederm facial filler products are there?</b><br />
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There are different varieties of Juvederm facial fillers, depending on what you're trying to achieve:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Juvederm Ultra is great for filling in mid-dermis, for treatment of superficial lines. </li>
<li>Juvederm Ultra Plus gel is for deeper wrinkles and augmenting areas like the cheeks, where skin is thicker and the product is placed more deeply.</li>
<li>Juvederm Voluma is used to restore fullness for a more youthful look.</li>
<li>Juvederm Volbella is used to bring fullness back and shape the lips as well as treat skin depressions in the under-eye area.</li>
<li>Juvederm Volift is used to soften and restore natural-looking volume to smile lines. </li>
</ul>
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<b>What Juvederm product was used on you?</b></div>
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For my first Juvederm appointment, Dr. Tosoni used Juvederm Voluma. </div>
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<b>Was it painful?</b><br />
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It really was not painful at all! Juvederm contains paint-reducing lidocaine. You can feel the needle going in, which doesn't hurt, and then you don't feel anything at all. It's just a bit of discomfort, but barely. I love that treatments deliver instant results, and minimal recovery or downtime.<br />
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<b>How long do the results last?</b><br />
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Juvederm has been clinically proven to last one to two years, depending on which product you use. The treatments are also reversible, if you don't love your results. (But seriously, what's not to love about smoother, more youthful looking skin?).<br />
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<b>What's in Juvederm?</b><br />
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The key ingredient in Juvederm is hyaluronic acid (HA) which is derived from a naturally-occuring sugar in the body, which combines with the water in your skin to smooth lines and wrinkles and add volume.<br />
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If you have any additional questions, let me know! I'd be happy to answer them for you. I loved my experience, and would highly recommend this for anyone looking to enhance their natural beauty.<br />
<br />Loukiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03066879990007701379noreply@blogger.com0