by Jennifer on May 14, 2013
When you’re in a city as architecturally beautiful as Vienna, it’s easy to marvel at just about every building, nook and cranny you see walking the city streets. We narrow down the top sites to see and snap pictures of in the chic European city (plus you’ll get a few chances to hear some of that amazing classical music and nibble on some delicious eats Vienna is known for).
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom)
Nearly every European city has a stunning cathedral located in the heart of the city and Vienna is no exception, except that their cathedral might just trump all others. The Romanesque, Gothic style of this Catholic church stands in Stephansplatz, a bustling and busy square in the city. Known for it’s amazing stone work draping down the sides of the building and for it’s unmistakable multi-coloured tiled roof (that depicts a double-headed eagle) the church has been a symbol in Vienna since it’s construction began in 1137. Find yourself on a corner of Stephansplatz to get the best angled photo opt, and don’t forget to swing around to the back side (with it’s impressive doors) for another shot. Even better, if you can get access inside (we were there for a Christmas concert performed by classical musicians), you’ll be able to marvel at the detail of the 18 altars inside.
Spanish Riding School
Vienna’s famed riding school and troop of Spanish horses draws a big tourist crowd all year long. The only riding school only in the world which has practiced for over 440 years when it comes to classical equitation in haute école. Visiting the all-white horses is a special treat – seeing a show is even better. Booking your ticket online at srs.at before hand will ensure you get to see a practice or a show. READ MORE
by Jennifer on April 17, 2013
Who knew plaid and checkered shirts could look so stylish? It can – casual or dressed up, plaid, gingham and checkered shirts aren’t just farm-chic anymore. This spring and summer they can easily fit into your travel wardrobe – look for a fitted cut and in either classic colour combos (think blues and reds), or get flirty with pastels and neon checks. Use it like a a chambray shirt (see options here) when travelling (top it with a blazer, a light-knit sweater for chilly nights, and mix and match it with just about any bottom). READ MORE
by Jennifer on April 15, 2013
Is there anything better than seeing the world go by while situated in a plush seat on a luxury train? We think not. Any time we’re in Europe, we love jaunting to smaller towns and cities via trains – even high-speed commuter trains are great ways to get around and see more of the country you’re visiting. But we’re also up for a longer ride taking us through some of the most scenic and beautiful parts of the globe. Maybe it’s because in Canada we don’t have a strong train culture but something about taking a train through Europe, streaming past fields in South America and channeling through hills and covered bridges in Africa makes us think luxury and romance. We round up the world’s best, prettiest and most stunning train rides where you not only get luxury, but also amazing views.
Image courtesy of Rovos.com
South Africa
South Africa is a vast country – each corner, coast, city and reserve just waiting to be explored. Flights can be on the pricey side – as can the taxis you would need to take to and from the airport. But seeing more of South Africa is a bit easier when you hop onto a luxury multi-day train ride. Chug through the city of Pretoria en route to the famous Victoria Falls on a three-day journey, where you’ll take in the Magaliesberg Mountain Range, ride along the Botswana and Zimbabwe boarders, and take a safari from the train as you pass through the Hwange Game Reserve before finally reaching your prime photo opt at Victoria Falls.
rovos.com
Image courtesy of Peru Rail
Peru
This all day train ride will take you through some of the most beautiful terrains in this South American country and is regularly voted as one of the best train rides in the world. Hop on the old-school 1920s inspired train cars in Cusco and head south to finish in Puno and Lake Titicaca. You’ll sweep past a mix of lush and dessert-like hills, the Andes and the stark, dusty plains along the countryside (where fields are a rich golden hue and rivers are deep blue). You’ll also make a pit stop in La Raya, at 4,321 meters above sea level, where you can shop from the locals (be sure to pick up some baby alpaca scarves, mittens and sweaters – this part of Peru is deceivingly chilly) and snap a few pictures with alpacas and llamas.
perurail.com
READ MORE
by Jennifer on April 11, 2013
In a city so rich with history (who can compete with the British royals?), culture (punk, anyone?), and art you could plan an entire trip to London solely around museum hopping. Or sometimes, on a dreary London day (there’s plenty), there’s nothing better than popping into a museum and exploring a new world or art, fashion, history or science. We round up the top London museums that never fail, never bore and are always worth a quick visit when in London Town.
The Victoria & Albert Museum
Hands down our favourite London museum, if not favourite museum in Europe. Curating some of the world’s best fashion exhibits (from Princes Diana’s stunning gowns and wedding dress to the exhibit on David Bowie, to a Through the Ages exhibit showcasing some stunning high end fashion pieces), the V& A is fondly noted as a favourite for fashion buffs, or anyone who indulges in style. Your best bet to see this summer (besides the amazing David Bowie exhibit)? Club to Catwalk: London Fashion in the 1980s showcasing some of London’s most influential fashion designers from that decade (Betty Jackson, Katharine Hamnett, Wendy Dagworthy and John Galliano). You can also ooh and ahh at the vast selections of royal jewels they often have on display (and who doesn’t want to do that?).
The Victoria & Albert Museum
Cromwell Road,
London SW7 2RL
vam.ac.uk
On the Tube: South Kensington underground station (on the Piccadilly, Circle and District Line). READ MORE
by Jennifer on December 17, 2012
Our phones are one thing we absolutely cannot do without while travelling. From checking our fave travel apps to figuring out a currency exchange to snapping pictures for Instagram, our phones are an extension of us while travelling. And why not have our phones look sleek and chic at the same time? They will with these cases we found and love — for both the iPhone 5 (if you were lucky enough to snag one when it first came out) and the trusty iPhone 4.
1. London Love
We heart London and a good Union Jack — as long as it’s in a vintage feel with rich shades of navy and red like this shiny hard case.
Union Jack case for iPhone 5, $35, gelaskins.com
2. Ultra Feminine
We can’t quite get over the beauty of this case. The colours, the textures, the patterns … it all adds up to a case we’ll be staring at constantly.
Weston Strezzate Firenze printed case for iPhone 5, $50, net-a-porter.com
READ MORE
by Jennifer on March 22, 2012
When it comes to weddings, no one does it quite like the A-list. Sometimes surpassing even that of royals, celebrities know not only how to through a party at a wedding, but how to pick some of the best locations around the world. Whether you’re planning your own destination wedding, or just looking to relax like a celebrity, we’ve sourced a few of our favourite celebrity wedding hotspots.
California
It makes sense, the state is home to just about every major star and with a slew of hotels that are accustomed to the privacy needs of celebrities, brides are almost guaranteed to have a secluded wedding (minus the helicopters overhead). It’s also where celebs wanting a splashy, extravagant wedding. Popular spots include the Beverly Hills, Napa Valley Malibu … think Kim Kardashian, Hilary Duff, Shannen Doherty and Reese Witherspoon among so many others. READ MORE
by Jennifer on March 1, 2012
You haven’t really experienced a city until you’ve set foot in the hectic craziness that is Bangkok. The City of Life as it dubs itself, is filled with culture, arts, food, markets and some of the friendliest people you’ll find. One thing’s for certain – you won’t be bored in Bangkok. In fact, you might just need to book another trip to the Thai city to be able to soak it all in.
Photo courtesy of Justin Harrington
Visit the Markets
There are plenty of street markets in Bangkok, where the walkways are crammed with makeshift stalls. You’ll find about anything you can imagine, from traditional Thai crafts to designer knock-offs (the Thai are famous for their near perfect duplicates of designer bags, watches, shirts, shoes and jewels). Be prepared to bargain. You’ll be offered a tourist price that can easily be talked down. One of the most famous markets is Khao San Road. From the scenes in The Hangover II, to the opening scenes in The Beach, Khao San Road’s vibrancy is something you just can’t miss.
Visit the Palaces
Thailand is filled with palaces, but the one that virtually every tourist sees in Bangkok is the Grand Palace, home to the Thai royal family. It’s a huge part of Thai history and the architecture is a sight that can’t be missed. Be sure to book an afternoon to roam the grounds and explore, but be sure to wear long pants and a long sleeved shirt out of respect.
Explore the Temples
Religion is rich throughout Bangkok, and the temples are dotted throughout, making it easy to get in touch with your spiritual side. Some of the most famous include, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and the Temple of Emerald Buddha which is viewed as the most important temple in Thailand no one is allowed near the Buddha except for the HM and King). Follow the same rule as a palace visit – a long sleeved shirt and long pants are a must. READ MORE
by Stephanie on January 13, 2012
Recently we wrote about the best airports for a layover, which in case you missed it great to know if you’re stuck in Amsterdam’s Airport Schiphol (AMS) or even the Vancouver International Airport (YVR). But what if you’re travelling for business not leisure? In that case your probably more interested in the best cell reception and free WiFi. Instead of telling you, we thought we’d share this cool infographic we recently came across. One thing we didn’t like learning is there’s no NY airport with free WiFi. READ MORE
by Stephanie on January 12, 2012
Maybe it’s the fact we’re off to Anguilla next week or we’re craving a warm weather escape, but whatever the case, we’ve been dreaming of what to pack for a beach vacation. We drew our inspiration from the bold shades and prints we saw dominating the Resort 2012 collections, choosing fun, yet chic accessories that you’ll definitely want to include in your luggage. READ MORE
by Stephanie on January 11, 2012
Kessler Canyon is one of the resort's on Luxury Link you can book for a discount.
When it comes to travel there’s nothing like getting a great deal. But usually when you think luxury, the word discount doesn’t apply, at least that’s what we thought — until now. We recently discovered Luxury Link and can’t wait to book our next vacation. At Luxury Link you’ll find hundreds of hotels, resorts and cruises from all over the globe handpicked by their travel professionals and experts. Every hotel or resort included on the site has met strict criteria, so you know you’re not going to be sold on a flop. The great thing about booking with Luxury Link is the prices are incredible. Often you’ll find hotels at 50% off the regular price. READ MORE
