For the Love of Europe

Gogo Voyage Ali Laptop Envelopes

Eleni — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 14:26:00 GMT

My favorite website, Fashion Week Daily, posted this fabulous find in their "Obsessions" section the other day, and I had to share it with all of you chic travelers out there.

What is one of the most important things for a traveler, especially a traveler who blogs, to bring with them when experiencing Europe? A laptop. And not only a laptop, but a laptop with the most fashionable sleek case.

GoGo Voyage Ali Laptop Envelopes are the perfect cover-up for your portable journals. Choose from black patent, silver, green, tan, or cream and fit right in with the impeccable European fashion.

AVAILABLE: http://www.fredala.com

Related post:

Five travel items one can't do without

The Gramercy Park Hotel In New York

Eleni — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:43:00 GMT

Ever wondered what it would be like to party with the stars? This past Spring break I was able to get a taste.

My sister works at the famous Gramercy Park Hotel in NYC. She cocktail waitresses at the swank Rose Bar in her stunning black Narciso Rodriguez back-zippered dress that fits like a glove on all of the modelesque servers. The atmosphere is funky and laid back, with upbeat lounge music playing in the background. The lighting is very bare; the stone fireplace and tiny table candles create the minimal glow. It's as if you're in ancient times reading the drink menu with candelas. Maroon velvet curtains hang down over the doors and plush rose-colored cloth lines all of the booths, seats and comfy royal-like chairs throughout the bar. Surrounding the discerning celebrities and hotel guests are eclectic murals and paintings that mirror their very styles and pull together the overall modish theme.

The drinks are as trendy as the guests. I tried the rose martini, which literally tasted like I was drinking a flower, the incredibly delish fig martini, and my favorite, the vanilla martini, which came with an orchid floating atop. My friend tried ordering a cosmo and the waitress simply would not let her because there were so many amazing specialty martinis to sample. We then finished off the night with champagne, every girl's favorite. And as we sipped on our bubbly we peered over to the table in front of us and spotted Entourage star Jeremy Piven surrounded by a booth of girls. Later in the night we saw Crash star Terrence Howard in a tight suit and hat and Leonardo DiCaprio's model girlfriend Bar Rafaeli. Supposedly a Sports Illustrated cover model was roaming around as well.

So if you're not a celebrity, model or posh hotel guest, just try working it. Up and coming photographers, businessmen and stars saturate the bar, who I'm sure are more than willing to buy some girls a few drinks. And if you're lucky, you may even walk out with a number :)

GRAMERCY PARK HOTEL
2 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10010
Tel. 212 920 3300 Fax 212 673 5890
http://www.gramercyparkhotel.com/
Reservations toll-free (US) 866 784 1300

Century 21 Makes Your Shopping Dreams Come True

Eleni — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 06:13:00 GMT

For all you clothes horses out there, I'm sure you can agree when I say that Century 21 is no longer New York's best kept secret -- it's everyone's favorite department store. From major international to American designer brands, the racks are full of to-die-for apparel, and the shelves are stacked with chic shoes and accessories. Ladies, mens, lingerie, juniors, handbags & accessories, shoes, childrens and home departments are all located within the treasured superstore.

Bargain shoppers, rethink your shopping game plans. TJ Maxx, Nordstrom Rack and Loehmann's may be great finds, but they don't measure up. Century 21's designers, quality and collections are incomparable, and the value for the dollar is unbelievable -- 40 to 70% off merchandise! I once found an adorable Betsey Johnson dress for $43 (€27) and Michael Kors boots for $78 (€49).

Photo by Chor Ip

Make sure to set aside a few hours before entering Century 21. I'd say I average about four hours per visit, at least. It's my go-to for jeans, dresses, tops, bathing suits, shoes -- literally everything. I even purchase my Clinique face gel there!

My blog post does not do Century 21 justice. You'll just have to sacrifice some dollars and time to find out how amazing and addictive this discount designer department store truly is.

Century 21 locations:Brooklyn, Manhattan, Morristown, Paramus, Rego Park (coming soon) and Westbury.

Related articles:

Go shop - New York

Pastis: Nyc Meets French Flair

Eleni — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 14:42:00 GMT

Pastis, a trendy French bistro located in Manhattan's Meatpacking District is one of my tops picks for wining and dining in New York City. My personal favorites are the seared tuna Nicoise salad, the simple french fries and the sinful bread pudding. My drink of choice would definitely be their espresso martini, made to perfection.
The atmosphere is enjoyably loud with locals that come to socialize right after work. The age range of customers is about twenties to forties and fifties and up. It's a mixture of all types of personalities.

Photo: Aturkus

Make sure to make reservations for this leading NYC restaurant because it is almost impossible to be seated without one. And swing by in the summertime to enjoy a coffee break or brunch at their outdoor summer cafe.

Pastis; 9 9 Avenue, New York, NY 10014-1203

Burger Joint: As Unrefined As Its Name, Yet So Appetizing

Eleni — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 11:23:00 GMT

I committed the deadly sin of gluttony last night when I decided to indulge in the supposedly "best" burgers in New York for dinner at Burger Joint. All I can say is that sacrificing those calories was well worth every bite.

The overall experience added to the satisfaction. It was similar to my endeavors last week when I visited several hidden restaurants and bars, except this time, the location was concealed inside a posh hotel.

Photo by Joelogon

Jackie and I confidently walked through the busy entrance of Le Parker Meridien, as if we were hotel guests returning to our loft. But of course, when we stepped foot inside the open lobby, Burger Joint was nowhere in sight. I discretely asked the concierge where to go, and he kindly told me to follow the draping red velvet curtains to my right. We turned the corner, and there it was - the bright neon burger.

I felt as if I was in a mom and pop burger joint with New York accents mixed in.

The rules at Burger Joint are plain and simple. Customers are to walk up to the counter and quickly give their order, while surrounded by store-bought Arnold's hamburger buns, jugs of pickles, ketchup and grade A Grey Poupon, and Dracula and Wonder Woman chotchkies. If you don't know what you want, you walk to the back of the line.

Thank God it wasn't too busy because Jac and I needed time to make out the words on all of the handwritten cardboard signs: Cash Only; Step 1: hamburger or cheeseburger, Step 2: how you want it cooked, Step 3: the toppings; and a list of drinks ranging from Sam Adams to frothy milk shakes.

Photo by VirtualErn

"Burger, medium, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, fries and a brownie," I called out. I felt like a fat pro, but I needed to try everything! Jac ordered a cheeseburger with "the works" - lettuce, tomato, onions, mayo, mustard, ketchup, pickles - and a Sam Adams.

My paper-wrapped burger was in my hand in maybe 17 seconds; shortly after came my greasy brown paper bag of fries; and then I grabbed a self-serve brownie from the stacked-high brownie bin, all for a mere $13!

Luckily the turnover is nice and fast, so Jac and I were able to snatch a booth in the corner. Burgers, bag of fries, brownie and a clear plastic cup filled to the brim with Sam Adams. Who needs plates, utensils, glasses or waiters? We sure didn't. Napkins and hands are the essentials.

The burgers were so juicy, the fries crispy and thin, and the brownie so cake-like. The expressions on our faces said it all: Burger Joint serves ridiculously good burgers.

From my angle, I was able to get a view of the entire joint and really appreciate its shantiness. With country, oldies and Arab-like music playing in my ears, I scanned the hotel guests, businessmen and walk-ins off the street munching away on their chow. I was cornered by thumbtacked signs, hanging framed newspaper and magazine reviews, Sex and the City, Ratatouille and Cheech & Chong posters, and celebrity signatures ranging from Whitney Houston to Leona Lewis. The total atmosphere was great and made the food taste even better.

After absorbing the entirety of the dive and digesting our delicious dinner, we collected our remnants, chucked them in the garbage, and got up from our comfy booth. Two hungry customers were eagerly waiting to fill our seats.

There is no excuse not to experience the taste of Burger Joint because it's conveniently open all hours of the day. Dress casual, come hungry and enjoy New York's best burgers.

BURGER JOINT; Le Parker Meridien; 18 W 57th St. New York.

Go further: Read about how Paris goes bonkers for burgers.

Grandma´s Funky Jewelry Box

Eleni — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 08:35:00 GMT

Affordable vintage jewelry is usually difficult to find. We all wish we could just raid our grandma's old jewelry boxes and throw on her stash with today's modern fashions. In Pippin, however, it's hard not to walk out with cheap antique charms.

Located on West 17th Street, a block known for vintage, thrift and antique shops, Pippin houses an array of funky one-of-a-kinds. The buyers purchase their entire inventory and restock the boutique with new selections each week.

They've even created their own line, called Reverie, known for its original artwork of combined vintage pieces.

One cool aspect about Pippin is that you'll always know where your vintage finds have originated from. On the white price stickers are the cost on one side and the date of the item on the reverse.

I bought a gorgeous 1930's/1940's bracelet yesterday for only $24! And not only will you find jewelry, but also vintage hats and handbags.

I'm always sure to be bare-skinned when entering Pippin, because I know my fingers, wrists and neck will most certainly be adorned when walking out.

Be sure to peek into Pippin Home, the treasure chest right next door.

PIPPEN; 112 & 1121⁄2 West 17th Street, New York, NY

For The Love Of Cheese

Eleni — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 07:00:00 GMT

Call us cheesy, but momondo has gone crazy for coagulated milk. We've given our writers the mission of uncovering 'le meilleur fromage' in Paris, 'il migliore formaggio' in Rome, the stinkiest cheeses in New York and the hands-down best cheeses in London, Madrid and Brussels. So grab yourself some bread and wine and join us on this tour of the best cheese shops in Europe.

New York

Paris and Rome may be known for their great cheese-shops, but don't fuggedabout Brooklyn, New York.

Stinky Bklyn is the name, and indeed it is stinky. At least they warn us.

It's pure temptation peering through from the outside and cheesy heaven within. The smelly store is stacked high in endless assortments of cheeses, meats and chocolate - life's greatest indulgences.

There's even a recommended wine pairing on each chunk, most helpful for customers like me who would just pair it with a cracker, or simply my mouth. And what's even greater is the entertaining "nose" factor on each cheese, rating its stinkiness.

The staff is so welcoming, maybe because they're all high on the smell of cheese. If it were any other cheese shop, I think I'd walk right out. But the clever name keeps you inside, in a way making you accept the stench.

So do all of the quirky wall messages: Shh the cheese is aging; the stink factor; and my favorite:

There's no better way to entertain than with cheese and wine. So after purchasing your cheese and meat party platter, walk right across the street to the Smith & Vine wine shop, also owned by the owners of Stinky Bklyn, and conveniently purchase the wine recommended from the wine pairing! If you thought it couldn't get better than that, it can. This fall, Stinky Bklyn, in partnership with Smith & Vine, is offering cheese classes on pairing drinks and cheese! Beer, sake, wine and cocktails with goat, sheep and cow cheese - yum.

STINKY BKLYN; 261 Smith Street; brooklyn, NY

The Luxurious Future Of Rice Pudding

Eleni — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 11:01:00 GMT

Rice pudding has officially made my list of top comfort foods, along with chocolate, wine and popcorn. It's creamy, sweet, rich, simply ahhmazing.

I never thought rice pudding could get better than Kozy Shack's famous brand. Well, not until a few days ago when I stepped foot inside the raved-about Rice to Riches for the first time. Rice to Riches' rice pudding is on a whole other level - heaven.

We walked into a modern, futuristic oasis of oranges, browns, creams and whites, all part of the rice pudding color family. Giant fruits decorated the walls of the seating area, clever indulging signs hung all around, and several play on words were seen throughout: "off the eaten path" and "rice to riches," of course. The entire shop mocked the epic diet craze going on in the world. It was ironic seeing such a place exist and be successful in image-driven, skinny New York City.

I spotted the assortment of rice pudding flavors and didn't know where to start. The two girls behind the counter were generous in letting us sample almost every single one. There are seasonal rice pudding flavors for the summer, winter and holidays, and all-year-'round flavors, such as Coconut Coma, Take Me to Tiramisu, Sex Drugs and Rocky Road, and Fluent in French Toast. I chose to go simple and try a Solo size of the Cinnamon Sling with Raisins, but then topped it off with the "Spirit" topping of Oatmeal Coconut Crumble. Wow, is all I can say.

What makes the experience even better is that you eat the rice pudding out of a container shaped like a mini spaceship, with what seems like an over-sized plastic Italian ice spoon that's designed to slide perfectly into your mouth. There are even directions for eating your dessert! Step 1. Take a spoonful, Step 2. Count to four: One...Rice to Riches...Two...Rice to Riches...Three...Rice to Riches...Four...Rice to Riches...

Rice to Riches is definitely an out-of-this-world rice pudding experience. You can be more daring than I was and try the Epic, Sumo and Moby sizes that serve up to 10! And if you're too lazy to pick it up, the store offers domestic shipping to anywhere in NYC and overnight shipping to anywhere in the USA, allowing you to enjoy the perfect comfort food in the comfort of your own home.

RICE TO RICHES; 37 Spring Street, NYC

New York City.....shh

Eleni — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 09:43:00 GMT

Last night I explored the hidden nooks and crannies within New York's lively city streets. Always be observant when strolling down city blocks, because you just may walk past something worth discovering.

A Walk Down Smith Street

Eleni — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:11:00 GMT

The word on the street is that Brooklyn is the new Manhattan. I wouldn't go quite that far, but it's definitely worthy of what I like to call it: mini Manhattan.

I am privileged to be able to go out often in the artsy Cobble Hill area of Brooklyn because my best friend Jac conveniently lives there. She's my personal guide for all of the best restaurants, bars and boutiques, especially the ones on adorable Smith Street, the heart of Cobble Hill.

The Case Of The Chic Globetrotter: What To Pack?

Eleni — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 06:29:00 GMT

Whether strolling through the arrondissements of Paris or down the graffiti-clad streets of Berlin, you’re expected to exude an awareness of fashion. With these must-have travel gadgets, even the most fashionably challenged traveler — one who doesn't know Anna Wintour from Anne Hathaway — can pull off looking chic while abroad.

Go Classic With Longchamp’s Le Pliage Travel Bag

Chuck that awful Lilly Pulitzer and grab a hold of one of Longchamp’s trendy (but not too trendy) men and women’s multi-sized bags for day, weekend or weeklong getaways. Find the perfect fit among the 16 varied models and 12 unique colors of Le Pliage’s classic line of sturdy and easy-to-clean synthetic handbags, backpacks, travel bags and totes, all lined with cowhide leather. Your style will never be compromised with Longchamp.

Be Sleek With Barbara Wiggins’ Sterling Passport Case

Those intimidating passport control men, as handsome as they may be, always excite my nerves. So as to not draw too much attention to yourself, but still look rather chic, pull out your sleek Barbara Wiggins' Sterling Passport Case from Anthropologie. It’s handmade in the UK with a sheening crackled leather exterior and plastic flap interior for your passport and boarding pass. Who knew passport cases could be so efficiently stylish?

Make Speedy Exchanges With Ponoko’s Handy Coin Pouch

For you travel newbies, take note. Ponoko's originally designed unisex leather coin pouch with two snap closures for easy access is great to have on hand. Whether for tipping, paying to use the bathroom or shopping at the local market, coins are required or at least preferred. So trade in the huffs and puffs of the eye-rolling stallholders who have to go and break your bills for this sure steal. Maybe they'll even bargain with you.

Or perhaps you'd prefer the embossed version for a little added flare.

Recharge On The Go With Tugo’s Nifty Cup Holder

Just imagine: Suitcase handle in one hand, duty free bags in the other, with your pocketbook or briefcase slung over your body. Your body's craving its daily caffeine kick, but you’re all tied up! The new and innovative Tugo cup holder magically provides a 'third hand' for your Starbucks boost. This durable but bendy cup carrier suspends your beverage between the handles of your rolling bag and tilts along with you. Wow! If it can save me from spilling my Caffè Americano down my arm like I always do, I'm sold.

You’ll be good to go with tugo!

Go further:

Gogo Voyage Ali Laptop Envelopes

Sensibly Suited For Skiing

Eleni — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:15:00 GMT

Having skied only a handful of times, I’ll admit, I’m no pro. Let’s just say I’m better off on flat land. But having experienced what is to ski — frozen extremities, a bruised behind, thrill and frustration (yes, all on the bunny slope) — I’ve recommended a few ski gadgets to keep you gliding along.

RECCO Reflectors Detect When You’re in Need

For avid skiers and snow sport extremists, RECCO reflectors serve as your permanent safety backup in the event of an accident or avalanche. Affix a pair of these non-powered devices with infinite signal strength to your (even your children’s!) sturdy outerwear — not to accessories that may fall off. Continue being the daredevil you are, but make sure a set of RECCO reflectors go along for the ride.

Ski, Talk and Jam With Audex Motorola Jacket Series

You’ve just made a spill, your frustration has peaked, and the freezing cold snow managed to wiggle its way up your sleeve. A bit of distraction would be nice right about now. Throw on your Burton Audex Motorola Jacket with Bluetooth Stereo Technology to keep you warm, dry, connected and jamming all at the same time. Flip up your hood, listen to music through the wired headset, and answer phone calls with the built-in hands-free mic, controlling everything right from your sleeve!

Reusch Solaris Gloves Keep Fingers Ski-Ready

Have your fingers ever become so numb you’ve tried shoving hand gel warmers inside your ski gloves to keep them from falling off? No need to sacrifice comfort for warmth. With the Reusch Solaris Glove your hands will feel like buns in the oven, plus you won’t lose grip of your skis. Ingenious ThermoTec heat sensors monitor the temperature inside, evenly spreading warmth all the way to your fingertips. Quickly recharge with the supplied battery charger as you and your friends take a lodge break and sip on some hot cocoa. Now that’s my idea of skiing.

Ski, Socialize and Snooze in New Zealand Nature Company Silk Undies

This may sound silly, but I was never allowed to go skiing unless I wore my silk long underwear. It's the easiest and most useful accessory to roll up in your backpack for a ski weekend getaway. New Zealand Nature Company’s silk thermal long underwear is lightweight, body forming and breathable, constantly insulating without overheating. Wear your set while out on the slopes, lounging around the ski resort or to bed. Get the most out of your ski trip and your silk thermal underwear.

Christmas in Amsterdam: Vrolijk Kersfeest!

Eleni — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:06:00 GMT

Photo: AlternatePhotography

I was afraid it wouldn’t feel like Christmas this year, now that I’m living in a different country. But here in the Netherlands, that's nearly impossible. This festive country is in full Christmas spirit before the end of December even comes around! Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) sails in from Spain on the last Saturday in November; Sinterklaasavond (Sinterklaas Eve) on 5 December is a night filled with poems and presents; and Kerstmis (Christmas Day) is spent caroling and telling stories around the Christmas tree. So it's no surprise Amsterdam takes part in these special holiday traditions. There's even a Tweede Kerstdag (Second Christmas Day) on 26 December! More than one day of Christmas? Thank you Sinterklaas.

A’dam Canal Café Craze

Eleni — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Photo: Taygete05 /CC

Amsterdam’s famous network of canals is in full gear any given month of the year. Houseboats of all shapes and sizes occupy the waterways year round, ice skaters take over during the wintertime, and tour boats make way during the warmer seasons. But summertime is when canal life in Amsterdam really thrives. You have the choice of canalside cafés, cafés with a view, floating terraces and floating restaurants. For satisfying my canal craving, these are my top spots — take your pick.

When Amsterdam Blooms & Celebrating Mother's Day

admin — Tue, 04 May 2010 08:00:00 GMT

Photo: eleni.menoutis /CC

The prettiest time of the year in the Netherlands is tulip season. The flat Dutch landscape most people regard as a bit boring — I find the evenness with the horizon quite beautiful — turns into a never-ending blanket of the most vibrant flowers.

Tulip season is as if Alice comes every spring to delicately paint each of the petals by hand. An ordinary train ride through the Netherlands transforms into a radiant floral exhibition when springtime comes around.

A visit to the Keukenhof, Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam Tulip Museum and Flora2000 site are four great ways to appreciate the tulip season. Below here I have listed all you need to know about these wonderful destinations. Tulip season is short but precious,

Hurry up!

Pst! Did You Remember Mother's Day?
Try the online store FLORA2000. A pet peeve of mine is tacky flower bouquets of carnations. With Mother’s Day around the corner, a tasteful floral Web site is always great to know about. Flora2000 delivers globally to 170 countries, offering a fine selection of 3,000 meticulously arranged flower bouquets to choose from.

The site is as sophisticated and luxurious as a wedding site, but a bit more colorful. Have your gift of flowers delivered in a basket, simply bound with a ribbon, held in a glass vase, or wrapped in beautiful paper. Your mother will surely be pleased.