Loulou's views

I just got back from a beautiful trip to New York City, and I'm missing it already. Of course, every time I leave, I start planing my next visit in my head, because I can never get enough of the most vibrant city in the world. On this trip to New York City, I had the wonderful opportunity of reviewing the incredible Guerlain Spa in the Waldorf Astoria. Pinch me—I was totally living a Blair Waldorf day. The Guerlain Spa is quite simply the epitome of luxury in this world-class hotel. Tranquility awaits as soon as the elevator doors open on the 19th floor—and it's quite the breathtaking view, too. After changing into my robe and slippers, I was brought to the relaxing waiting lounge where I enjoyed a cup of tea before my facial.   Guerlain has been devoted to skincare and beauty since 1828. In 1939, Guerlain created one of the first spas in the world on avenue des Champs- Elysées,  and today, Guerlain is just as popular as ever for those who are passionate about b...

I'm back from my warm and sunny south Florida vacation, and I'm already planning my next trip back, because Bal Harbour is my happy place. Last year, I stayed at and reviewed the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour —and it was every bit as fabulous as you'd expect from a Ritz-Carlton stay. If you haven't been to Bal Harbour yet, here are four reasons why it should be on your travel bucket list. Four Reasons To Fall In Love With Bal Harbour: Bal Harbour Shops :  Bal Harbour Shops, named the world's most productive shopping centre, is paradise found for a shopaholic. Shopping in Bal Harbour is an experience like no other, and no matter what you're looking for, you'll find it. All the best designer stores can be found here: Balenciaga, Chanel, Dolce and Gabbana, Fendi, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Michael Kors, Tiffany & Co., Valentino, Rag and Bone, Tory Burch, and many more. There's also Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, on either end of th...

I'm back from my annual family vacation to sunny, warm south Florida, and my 11th (yes, really!) stay at the beautiful Diplomat Resort and Spa . Right between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, it's a vacation getaway in the perfect location, whether you're traveling with young children, friends, or as a couple. The oceanfront views simply cannot be beat.    We love traveling to south Florida in the winter because it's a short flight to paradise—we're surrounded by tropical lush landscapes, the beautiful ocean breeze, palm trees, and two gorgeous pools we use for hours every day at the Diplomat Resort. The infinity pool and the lagoon-style pool at the Diplomat are two of my favourite pools in any resort I've stayed at. Something I truly enjoy about the Diplomat Resort is experiencing the Diplomat Spa . I love starting my day with a full-body massage, and just relaxing. It really rejuvenates me so I'm ready to take on my day—swimming with...

Two things I love: to travel, and to shop. Of course, travelling with gorgeous luggage makes vacations that much more wonderful, and one luggage company I've always loved is RIMOWA —you know, "The original luggage with grooves" company? Well, they   just send me their RIMOWA Salsa Deluxe suitcase for my upcoming vacation to south Florida. I am in love! I've never felt a suitcase so lightweight—yet so durable—before. This suitcase is guaranteed to last a lifetime, and I travel often. It also has enough room so I can pack all my travel essentials: bikinis, shoes, more shoes, and more bikinis. (Truly, though, this suitcase fits a lot.) It's the  attention to detail that makes RIMOWA one of the world's bestselling luggage manufacturers, (especially in Europe) and also, because they are so incredibly stylish. Here are just some reasons why I love RIMOWA: Countless numbers of celebrities and athletes use RIMOWA luggage for their travels—and they de...

I love to travel, and I especially love opportunities to review luxurious hotels  in cities I love. This past weekend, my family and I were invited to spend the weekend in Toronto so I could review the beautiful SoHo Metropolitan Hotel —a 92 room, ultra-luxury hotel in the city's Entertainment District. The SoHo Met is a close walk to Ripley's Aquarium , the ACC, CN Tower, and Rogers Centre—the perfect location for anyone wanting to be in the centre of all the action. (I'll be back for part two of my review next week—an adults only stay!) Our second floor room had floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of downtown Toronto, a separate dressing area with oversized closet, (heaven!) and smart technology, including remote controlled lighting, and motorized draperies. The 10,000 square-foot fitness centre with lap pool was also on the second floor—and the large swimming pool was put to good use. My boys loved it! The beautiful marble bathroom had Frett...

This past weekend I had the great pleasure of staying at and reviewing the stunning Ritz-Carlton, Montreal  with my family. Montreal has always been one of my favourite cities because of its history and culture, and also because it is charming and beautiful. Not many hotels are linked to the history of the city in which they are located; the Ritz-Carlton Montreal is one of those hotels. After all, it's not called the "Grand Dame of Sherbrooke Street" for nothing. This hotel is an iconic part of Montreal. The hotel first opened its doors in 1912 and perhaps that is part of its charm. The lobby area (also called the Palm Court) is a great place to people watch and enjoy afternoon tea. The Palm Court makes me feel like I've stepped into the world of Gatsby. There is also a Dom Pérignon Champagne Bar in the Palm Court – exclusive to the Ritz-Carlton Montral and the first of its kind in Canada. (I'll have to come back for that!) I stayed at this hote...