Loulou's views

When travelling, I take full advantage of being on vacation mode. This means where I stay is as important as where I go. Splurging on accommodations is something to consider when you're travelling to south Florida–especially in Miami–because there are so many fabulous hotels that will make you feel like you're a million miles from home. Just a short drive from downtown Miami you'll find the exclusive and luxurious village of Bal Harbour, home to the iconic St. Regis hotel —recently named the best hotel in south Florida. There are not many St. Regis hotels in the world (50, to be exact) yet each one offers the same incredible service in a luxurious setting where you can truly unwind and feel a bit like royalty. You'll even receive a glass of champagne upon check-in. The St. Regis Bal Harbour, recently awarded the coveted Forbes Five-star and AAA Five Diamond award, is an oceanfront haven of elegance, and the place to go for people with impeccable taste for the good l...

I just got back from a hot and sunny vacation in Miami. One week away from winter (and all the snow) was just what I needed, except now, all I'm thinking about is my next getaway, even though summer is nowhere in sight.  One thing I love about travelling is all the shopping I do before I go away... like shopping for a new bikini or bathing suit, even though it can be stressful since the choices are endless. I loved partnering up with  Swimco , because this Canadian company knows swimwear well–after all, they've been in the business since 1975 and they're one of the largest swimwear retail chains in North America. Shopping Swimco online is an easy and fun experience with great customer service available to help you find just what you're looking for. They have a huge selection of women's, men's, and children's swimwear and beach accessories, and even though you're faced with a huge selection of swimwear options, it's easy to narrow down your se...

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...

As much as I love to travel and explore new countries and cities, there is something very comforting about travelling back to my favourite vacation destination. For me and my family, that special place of familiarity that keeps us coming back for more, year after year, is the Diplomat Resort and Spa in South Florida. Aside from spending some serious quality time with my family on the beach and by the pools while on vacation at the Diplomat, I also love to sneak away for some pampering at the Diplomat Spa. During my stay at the Diplomat Resort and Spa this winter, I was treated to the New Year, New You Spa Package, and it was incredible. This special package consisted of a one hour personal training session, an 80 minute massage, a 50 minute firming facial, and a shellac manicure and pedicure. I was blown away, and very grateful for my spa experience. (I didn't do the personal training session, though—I left my running shoes a...

We just returned home after a 10 day vacation in Florida. We escape every winter and come back with lasting, beautiful memories. This trip was even more amazing than other trips, because I had the opportunity to stay and review the stunning Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour. What can I say about my luxurious stay? It was perfection, from start to finish—and I was very, very spoiled. I arrived to the Ritz-Cartlon Bal Harbour for a site inspection, and I instantly fell in love with the clean, spacious resort lobby—and not just because of the complimentary champagne upon arrival. The grounds were beautiful and clean, and the pool was large, with Atlantic Ocean views all around. The beach, although not private, is quiet and peaceful—the perfect place to relax, swim, and unwind. I noticed right away the attention to detail at this resort, including the stainless steel bottles of sunscreen for guests to use. The staff at the Ritz-Carlton were helpful, friendly, and always smiling. ...