To & From Magazine, May/June 2012

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May/June 2012

To Europe & Beyond!

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welcome

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WITHIN THE PAGES

features

49 58 31 20 24 4

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Norwegian Street Fashion

Gushes for the Duchess: Why We Love Kate

How to Produce Your Own Travel Show

Free Travel: Contests to Check Out

The Views of Monaco

THE

WEVEUROPE

ISSUE

typical 8 10 18 22 76 104 106

Ramblings from the Editor Facebook Stalking Language Lesson: Italia Where in the world?

My European Vacation: Blogger Profiles Book It! ISSUUs with Blogs

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shop 12 14 16 68 86

Parisian buys Your Majesty Roman Holiday Shopping for a Cause What She Wore: Anne Hathaway

The Best Hotel and Rental Views

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Euro Shopping: Expanding Our Spending Choices

yum

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Tarty Time: Recipes for Sweet & Savory Tarts

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[from left-corner: Uff da! mug; guide books (and a glimpse into our upcoming travel plans); dandelions (‘tis the season); goofing around in a consignment shop with my friend Jenny]

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ramblings from the editor Hi there!

As you can see, I’ve become a bit obsessed with Instagram. Yes, you iPhone users have had it for awhile now, but as an Android user, I have just recently been given the privilege of entering your world and am really enjoying it. Feel free to follow me at toandfrom as I continue on with this new obsession.

Anyway, I hope everyone is looking forward to the upcoming summer months. I know I am! If your adventures are taking you into Europe, count your lucky stars (as we are all aware of the increasing fuel charges). As you can tell, the May/June issue of To & From focuses on Europe. There’s something romantic, beautiful and charming about our across-the-Atlantic neighbors. While this is a travel magazine, we are also focused on lifestyle (because, let’s face it - not all of us are on the road all the time), so this issue also includes the European perks that you can enjoy from home. For one, we hope you kick back with a few French-inspired tarts (page 96) as you flip through Duchess Kate’s fashion choices. I admit with Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee and more recently, the first anniversary of William and Kate, I might be Royally Crazy. (I’m hoping you are too!)

But perhaps you’re crazy for video. If that’s the case, we have an interview with three-time Emmy winner Lisa Lubin (and former television producer), who shares her tips on creating vacation videos. If you’re going to take advice from anyone on video, it would be Lisa.

And what do you know about Norwegian fashion? If you’re like me, very little. I’d like to change that. On page 49, Megan McDonough from Bohemian Trails shares the trends she spotted from her last trip to Oslo.

The weather has been on the chillier side here in Chicago, and you’ll notice that the issue reflects that. From here on out, we’ll try to stick more with the seasons/ weather trends. If you have any suggestions, please drop me a line at diana@ toandfrommag.com - I’d love to hear from you! We know you have many options on and off the web on how to dedicate your time, so we thank you for choosing to read To & From!

Diana Nguyen Editor, To & From (and Instagram addict)

FACEBOOK STALKING I admit it: when my friends post vacation pictures onto Facebook I’m the one who will sift through every single picture. Recently, I revisited the pictures of my friend’s trip to Amsterdam. I sort of got permission to use these (“A lawsuit would be great,” he replied to my begging text), so here they are. (Of course, I’m keeping his anonymity to minimize said lawsuit.)

Amsterdam

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Want to share your vacation pictures? Send us a link to your photo album (on Facebook, Flickr or any other online album), andtowe fmight use 11 rom them in a future issue.

OUI OUI,

Paris Old Navy Scarf, $16.94

JANE NORMAN Belted Piped Mac Trench Coat, £70.00

Parasolerie Heurtault umbrella, prices start at ¤300 nt me

ar :P

is

Primrose Stripe Mini Flare Skirt, £62.20

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Mia Parisian Flat, $39.99

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Ralph Lauren Elbow-Sleeve Boatneck Shirt, $29.99

DIVERTISSEMENT Midnight in Paris DVD, $15.49; The Paris Wife, $15.30

Rouelle Parisian Clock, $99.00

Vive La Paris!

deNeuville Chocolat français, ¤20.80

French Countryside Ruby Wine Glass, $14.99

‘Bistro de Paris’ Porcelain Mugs, $29.95

Eiffel Tower Pillow Cover “Zephyr”, $87.00

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Your

Majesty Paying respects to the royal matriarch

Sondra Roberts Floral Organza Box Clutch, $108

Suzi Chin for Maggy Boutique Pleated Dress, $128

Prepping for when you meet the Queen.

(It could happen!)

Carolee Pave Fireball Pearl Earrings, $22.80

Tory Burch ‘Reva’ Flat, $235 AB Clear Austrian Rhinestone Royal Crown Silver-Plated Brooch Pin, $12.95

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Diamond Jubilee Commemorative Plate, £95

Royal Crown Cookies in Pink - Set of 6, $39

Long Live The Queen!

Full Colour Ceramic Mug, £5.99

Sixty Glorious Years: Our Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee 1952-2012 [Hardcover], $16.64

‘It Gives Me Great Pleasure’ Scarf - Laura Berens for the V&A, £144

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J. Crew Farmer’s Market Tote, $45

Vespa LXV 150 i.e., $5499

Gladiator wedge sandal, $79.95

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Roman holiday TOUCH - Round frame sunglasses, ÂŁ22.99

Hand Dyed Silk Scarf, Charmeuse Scarf, Blue Gray Scarf, 6 x 24 inches, $18

J.Crew Sequined cotton tank, $60

18 Ct Yellow Gold, $1199

THE INSPIRATION Roman Holiday (Special Collector’s Edition), $6.99

Bialetti Mukka Express® Cappuccino Maker, $90

J.Crew apple print pleated cotton skirt, $130 RELIVE YOUR ITALIAN MEMORIES Talenti gelato (check website for store locations) to

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albero

ombrellone

tree

umbrella

ristorante restaurant

cameriere waiter

fiori

uomo

flowers

man

motorino scooter

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strada road

balcone balcony

Voglio insegna rti un po’ d i italian Oh, sor ry you l o o. ok conf “I want used. I to teach sai y ou som

automobile

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e Italian

car

lampione street light

ragazza disponibile helpful woman

And why stop there? Here are a few more to&f rom Italian basics for your Napoli (Naples) adventure:

Buon giorno!

Come stai?

Sto bene.

Napoli è bella.

Adoro il tuo vestito!

Good morning!

How are you?

I’m doing well.

Naples is beautiful.

I love your outfit! to

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FREE TRAVEL (if you win) The best trips are the ones that leave an impact and also help keep your life in perspective. But how to do you keep from worrying about the financial costs of your journey? Two words: free trip. Here, we’ve rounded up a few travel contests that might snag you that all-expense paid trip. If you win, you have bragging rights on top of a cool, free vacation (and hopefully, you’ll throw us a shout out). If not, well, just like dreaming of winning lottery, you had a few days to fanaticize about the wouldn’t it be cool scenario. And that won’t cost you a thing.

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1. WINE COUNTRY Ménage à Trois wants to wine and dine one winner. Enter by May 31st to win a trip for two to Napa Valley.

2. LONDON!

Anglotopia.net and Virgin Airs have partnered up to provide a roundtrip, 4 night stay in London. Get on it, chap!

Contest ends May 10th.

3. FOR THE VIDEO PEOPLE....

How are your video skills? Well, after you read Lisa Lubin’s video tips (on page 31) you might want to try to put it to good use and create a piece for Coco-Cola to win a three night stay in Cannes.

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4. FILM FESTIVAL

More specifically, win a trip to the Banff Film Festival in Calgary, Canada. Enter by May 31st.

5. SOUTH CAROLINA Enter to win a 4 day, 3 night stay at the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. Sounds nice to us!

6. LOLLAPALOOZA

How about 2 VIP tickets to this music fest and a 5 night stay at PUBLIC Chicago? Hurry, you have until May 9th!

7. CARIBBEAN When does a 4 night stay in St. Martin not sound nice? You have until May 31st to enter. to

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WHERE IN THE WORLD?

Like its neighboring countries, this European state has a mix of history, charm and beauty. For the amateur photographer, you won’t have difficulty finding something to shoot.

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Lake Chapala, Mexico was the featured city in the last issue.

LOOK FAMILIAR? This European country is a common port stop for Mediterranean cruises. Here, you can charter a local boat to see one of the world’s most famous blue grottoes (this particular one makes an appearance in Troy - the 2004 movie starring Brad Pitt). Afterwards, you can head into the walled section of the old capital and immediately transport yourself in a medieval period. Naturally, the next stop is to the modern day capital city for lunch or a simple cup of coffee at one of the many cafes. Once you’re done eating, duck into a shop or two (word on the street is that there’s a flea market that’s popular with the locals) or 23 to local f rom walk around and take in the sights.

THE PORT Where the rich dock their yachts.

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Two Hours in Monaco A FEW SNAPSHOTS

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MONTE CARLO

Arguably, the most famous casino in the world.

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GRACE’S LAND

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THE FRENCH RIVIERA With views that are nothing short of perfect.

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MONACO TOWN The Old Town pedestrian area

filled with restaurants and shops

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How to Shoot Your Own Travel Show (That’s Worth Watching) Tips from a three-time Emmy® Award winning television producer.

CAMERA. CHECK. MEMORY CARD. CHECK. VIDEO CAMERA? Hmmm...Despite, being a former TV producer with 15 years experience–with three Emmys to boot–you probably won’t find Lisa Lubin traveling with a video camera. “My own career involved shooting shows, going somewhere as a producer, planning and getting the story,” she explains.

“I just wanted to go to a new place and see it with new eyes, and not as a TV producer. So I didn’t shoot as much video. I was trying not to do my day job while I was traveling.” These days, you’ll find this World Traveler

(“It’s on my business card,” she says proudly, referring to her self-appointed title) exploring the world, not with a video camera, but instead with her DSLR camera. (You can see of her photography on her travel blog LL World Tour.)

She’s also taking her television experience and using it to video consult for small businesses, entrepreneurs and for those looking to improve their video skills. Here, she shares some of her tips on how to make your next travel video an award-winning piece (or at the very least, it will appear that way to your friends and family).

Alright, let’s start this off. What should people film when on vacation? It’s really what you love and really

Think before you go–what your focus is. Is it your children in this location or is it the food? You shouldn’t shoot everything single thing. You don’t always need video of your hotel room, your bathroom–not unless you really love that.

depends on what your end goal is. If it’s for you, you can shoot whatever you want. If it’s to share with someone, have it be a little more focused.

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Where do you see the most potential in travel videos?

You can be the funniest person, but maybe you stink on camera.

But if you have a great personality and translate well and are good on camera, just like blogs, people will tune in for you. There is a balance between making it about you and telling a compelling story using the mechanism.

It [also] has to be technically good for people to watch.

Is there a way to make creating travel videos a living?

I think it’s a lot of work but I think you can do it. I mean, the statistics of YouTube are insane. There are so many millions of videos posted everyday. So it’s huge, and people are making money.

It depends what you’re doing.

There are so many facets of video.

Video can be you on video talking,

Clockwise from top: Lisa working in Cabo; working at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade; using her other camera in Bryce, Utah. Opposite: Lisa on a tree canopy tour.

or it could be an interview. It can be a story on someone.

It can be a cooking demo–it can be anything that would be a print story but done on video. A lot of people are making money on YouTube because it’s about them. Their personalities sell. They’re engaging. They’re interesting.

Some people think video will become the internet.

I believe that on your [web]page, if you’re selling something – a product or yourself – it’s great to have video because then the person can get to know you. It’s more engaging than reading something. Typically, people like to play something instead of reading the words that fill the entire screen.

Money aside, how do hobby videographers produce something to keep the interest of their friends and family?

Well, they would edit it. Not everyone is trying to be a YouTube star but they want to make video. Learn how to shoot better. Learn how not to overshoot and [not to] shoot every moment. Just grab select moments. Create your own highlight reel. There are a lot of easy programs that you can use nowadays. The best advice is always less is more.

Edit yourself. It’s hard. Get rid of stuff you don’t need and put in the best highlights, best shots and best sounds, and

you have your little thing about your trip. And once you have that, burn it on a DVD or keep it on your computer or share it on YouTube with your family [instead of] just all the raw footage. You don’t have to be an expert editor to create a highlight reel. But if you’d like, add titles, music and have fun with it. I always tell people, do it only if you enjoy it.

So where was the one place where you didn’t have your video camera with you and wish you did?

That’s hard. I would have to think it’d be a behind the scenes tour. Like I was in Parma [Italy] and I was getting a behind the scenes tour of a prosciutto factory. That’s very visual. That’s very good for video. Any type of factory with sound is interesting. You can make a visual story out of everything and make it interesting. The whole world is interesting that I can’t even answer this!

And your worst video experience?

I’m trying to think of when we were told to shut off the camera. But I like those experiences–they’re exciting, if I can say that. I don’t recall any bad experience, but when stuff got weird or we were shooting when we weren’t supposed to... I like that. It’s exciting! to

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Lisa’s Tips for Filming and Editing 1. Have a focus. “What is the story you’re telling? Have a reason.”

2. And on that note, tell a story. If you take Lisa’s advice, “the best stories are about people. Everyone has amazing stories.”

3. Don’t forget sound. “The best thing about video is the sound. Not necessarily the picture. It’s the sound. Because you can do a lovely still photograph, and get this colorful visual of a market somewhere.

But you’re not going to hear the sounds on your photograph. Video will get you the great, natural sound which is a huge thing to get your viewer into it. It’s another way to grab the viewer and make them feel like they’re there in another dimension that you’re not getting from your article or photograph.”

4. Don’t overshoot. “Before editing, keep in mind not to overshoot because it’ll make the editing process hell. You’ll be going through hours and hours of footage.

Only hit record when you’re ready.”

5. Shoot closer than you think. “Shoot a lot of close ups. Zoom in and lock in on something–their hands, their face. Close ups, to me, are the most interesting. It’s almost like art. You get to see something from a new perspective.”

6. Use a tripod. “If you don’t have a tripod, hold the camera and lean against the wall. Or lean against your own body.

Just be mindful and be as still as possible.

A lot of times, what I do is find a flat surface. If I find a cool angle I put my backpack on the floor and put my camera on it and mush it around so it’s leveled.

You can get a really cool perspective.

That’s my other advice: change your perspective. That’s a mistake people make–they shoot everything at their

height level. It’s so boring and there is nothing compelling for the viewer. You really want to get low, get high, get really cool angles, get close...and include interesting foregrounds. Compose your shots.”

7. Respect the locals. When it comes to filming the locals, “If you’re in eye contact with the person, ask them. Most people will be okay with it, but it’s still nice to ask.”

8. Be mindful of lighting. “You don’t need a lighting kit, but make sure you don’t shoot your child’s face with the sun behind them because they will be backlit.

Usually, if you’re shooting people, it’s best that they’re actually in the shade. It’s a nice, more diffused look.”

9. Watch the news. If you’re looking for inspiration or quick coaching on how to use video, “You could watch Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations. You’ll see a lot of good shots. But it’s easier to learn with the news because it’s a little slower paced, and you can absorb good shooting instead of with travel shows which might have more shots and more editing than you’re going to get into. And it might be hard to pick up stuff because it moves really fast.”

10. Engage your viewers. “Engage their emotions. That’s why I say sound. It’s the thing that [photo] stills can’t do.”

11. Your technique trumps expensive equipment. “Here’s my schpeel: The biggest thing for me is technique. I’m not in the school of thought that you should spend thousands of dollars when you don’t need to. A lot of people get gadget-crazy and they have the latest and greatest when you don’t need near that. If you’re shooting vacation videos, then shoot with any compact camera you have.”

Lisa at Lago Grey.

Lisa Lubin is a three time Emmy速 Award winning television producer turned world traveler, blogger, and video consultant. For nearly ten years, she produced an award-winning weekly lifestyles, travel, and entertainment magazine show on ABC Chicago while concurrently teaching TV production at Columbia College. She recently launched LLmedia, a video consulting business and released an eBook: Video 101: Tips and Tricks to Awesome Visual Storytelling. She helps businesses, entrepreneurs, and successful bloggers improve their video segments and bring them to a more professional level. After 15 years in broadcasting, she took a sabbatical of sorts, which turned into three years traveling and working around the world. She writes about travel and the (mis)adventures that ensue while traipsing around the globe on LLworldtour.com. Her writing and photography has been published by the Wall Street Journal, the Chicago Tribune, Smithsonian, Encyclopedia Britannica, and American Way Magazine.

Video 101 will provide you with the basic video techniques on shooting, writing, editing and choosing your focus. [Read the reviews.] to

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View from The Bingham Hotel in London.

Postcard-worthy views and beautiful rooms from two London hotels and one Parisian apartment.

“The Bingham is a beautifully restored Grade II listed Georgian townhouse in Richmond. The critically acclaimed restaurant...

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Superior River Double Bedroom.

...with rooms offers exquisite panoramic views across the River Thames.�

-Alison Hull, Luxe Public Relations Ltd

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I see London...

“I believe that the Lancaster London has the best views in London...�

Presidential Suite at Lancaster London.

“From the guestrooms you have panoramic views encompassing Hyde Park, as well as the Gherkin, London Eye and Royal Albert Hall.�

-Alison Hull

I see France...

“The views are commanding...And we even have a webcam placed on the terrace, which looks at the Eiffel Tower. You can see it at www.eiffelcam.com.�

-Pascal Zytomirski, Owner of Rental France

Rue de L’Université Eiffel Terrace

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“The apartment itself although not large (50 sq meters) is very airy and has windows on both sides of the living room. So it is full of light all the time and there is a terrace on both sides of the space which over looks Paris, so even when one sits in the living room he can see Paris on both sides and [take in the] breathtaking views.�

-Pascal Zytomirski

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Facets the

magazine

Embrace your diverse life

Embrace your diverse life theFacetsMag.com

THEY’RE OSLO FASHIONABLE to

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N

orway may be the “Winter Capital of the World” for the sports fanatic but for the art lover, it is just as easily the cultural heartbeat of Scandinavia. Having hosted several Winter Olympic Games throughout the years, the small country is a heavy hitter in the extreme sports industry. However, beyond the snow-covered slopes and freezing cold temperatures, there is a cosmopolitan community actively growing in Norway’s capital city.

In many ways Oslo is the perfect combination of culture and nature.

While the city itself is compact and easily explored by foot, the surrounding landscape is comprised of impressive mountains, picturesque forests and exotic beaches. For urban dwelling travelers who crave the great outdoors, Oslo is a hidden gem and a constant source for inspiration.

Grünerløkka (pronounced Green-nerlo-ka) is perhaps the most avantgarde area of Oslo. Trendy boutiques, quirky coffee shops and hip bars keep this colorful neighborhood alive and

thriving. The development of Grünerløkka as a social hub for the arts is especially popular among the young adult community in Oslo, as seen through their fashionable form of self-expression.

Relatively quiet during the weekdays, the Sunday Birkelunden Park flea market transforms Grünerløkka from laid-back hangout to highfashion capital. It’s here where the city’s young and stylish come out to see and be seen as they leisurely peruse through the antique stalls in search of their next vintage item.

Surprisingly, Grünerløkka was not always the cultural center it is today. The working class originally inhabited the borough during the 19th century, partly due to a number of factories located nearby. In recent decades however, the industrial buildings that once defined Grünerløkka have been replaced with parks, cafes and independent shops.

While the overall fashion consensus among Oslo’s young community can best be described as “rugged chic”, there are clearly elements of tradition and function playing into the mix.

While some locals opted for simple yet elegant ensembles by using classic Norwegian knitwear and popular winter fabrics, others creatively walked the line between edgy rockers and new age hipsters.

TRENDY

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GRUNGE

HIPSTER

L A N O I T C N U F

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L A N O I T I D A R T

Oslo Shops Worth Checking Out: ◊ Rebella: Mette Alstad is the owner of this store that carries designs by Norwegian fashion designers. Rumor has it that Rebella carries designs worn by US celebrities. ◊ Bik Bok: A chain store (with locations in Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Latvia) that carries designs primarily from Oslo. ◊ Design Forum: The perfect place for those who like to peruse through bright and bold options for the perfect find.

Megan Eileen McDonough Contributing Editor Megan Eileen McDonough is a freelance travel and fashion writer based in New York City. She also runs Bohemian Trails, a travel blog covering global art, culture and off the beaten path destinations for the avant-garde traveler.

GUSHES FOR THE DUCHESS

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ROYAL CRUSH In a world where the public tends to target and immediately criticize anyone in the spotlight, it appears many are fascinated with the Duchess of Cambridge. Is it the limited access that makes us want to learn a little more about her? Or is it our culture’s fascination with royalty? It could simply could come down to our worn out feelings toward reality stars and entitled celebrities that it’s a nice change of pace to see someone who shows a bit of humility and modesty.

Whatever the case, include us amongst the millions who adore the woman formerly known as Kate Middleton.

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NEXT Official ParalympicsGB Scarf, £10

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT KATE 1. Her simple, classy style. Sigh.

2. Her travel and appearance schedules are packed. Yet she always looks cool, calm and collected.

3. Despite her status, she’s relatable.

Is it the smile? Her warm eyes?

Or is it just her [British] girl next door charm? to

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EVERYTHING BUT THE TIARA The Accessories That Go Everywhere the Duchess Goes

THE SHOES

3.

When it comes to footwear, Kate definitely has her favorites. Here are a few choices that she keeps on rotation:

1. Calvin Klein Heels,$69 2. LK Bennett Andie Shoe, £125.00 3. LK Bennett Mad-

1.

dox Wedges, £175.00

KateV L.K.Bennett.

2.

4.

5.

COVERAGE

Although we’re heading into the warmer months, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared for the chilly weather that will inevitably return.

4. Katherine Hooker Braid Coat, £760 5. Lauren by Ralph Lauren Darrin Tweed Hacking Jacket, $157

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CHECK OUT THESE BLOGS FOR MORE DETAILS ON KATE’S FASHION CHOICES: What Kate Wore Kate Middleton Style Blog Get What Kate Wore

THE DUCHESS’ CLUTCHES

Every girl needs a great companion. Be like Kate, and make sure you pick a clutch that speaks to you (and is versatile with most of the items in your closet).

7.

6. BCBGeneration Devan Clutch, $38 7. LK Bennett Renee Clutch, £175.00

8.

Meet Kate & William MORE THAN A STUD

(And we’re not talking about her prince.)

The Duchesss is known for her modest style, which is apparent with her jewelry choices.

While these earrings still err on the pricey side, they’re more attainable than what might found on the Hollywood red carpet on any given awards night.

8. White topaz and diamond stud earrings stud-earrings, £695 9. Hope Egg earrings white topaz $470.00

9.

We all know that as far as royalty goes, William and Kate are as real as they get.

Or are they? Visit Madam Tussauds New York and meet the waxed version of this lovely couple. If you’re in Amsterdam or London, you’ll also have a chance at meeting the waxy pair.

For more information, visit the Madame Tussauds site. to

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ABOUT FACE

The items in her makeup bag

Duchess Kate is known for doing her own make-up.

We’d be skeptical about this except that she seems to keep her makeup simple and polished. Fortunately, her application is flawless each and every time.

SKIN

Lift Lumiére Firming and Smoothing Fluid Makeup SPF15, $65

Always start with the basics: moisturizer with SPF and foundation. And when you find a product that combines them both, you have a perfect marriage.

EYES

There are two things that we notice Kate’s consistent about: neutral eye shadow shades and black eyeliner.

MAC Patina Eye Shadow, $15

Maybelline Line Stiletto Ultimate Precision Liquid Eyeliner, $12.99

LIPS

CHEEKS

Kate isn’t shy about her rosy cheeks.

Bobbi Brown Pale Pink Blush, $24

Just peachy.

We love it.

Bobbi Brown Pale Mauve Creamy Lip Color, $23

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ROYAL AGENDA

Attractions from Britian to Minneapolis. (Really.)

KENSINGTON PALACE

We can’t promise that you’ll meet the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, but you can take a glimpse into their London residence.

Good enough for us!

BUCKINGHAM PALACE

If you need a reason to see the Queen’s residence, this is the year as the country celebrates her Diamond Jubilee. And speaking of diamonds, don’t miss the exhibit showcasing Queen Elizabeth’s personal jewelry collection. (The exhibit will be open to the public from June 30 to October 7).

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HIGHCLERE CASTLE DIANA’S DRESS

Recognize the name of the castle? If not, you might know it as the backdrop to PBS series Downton Abbey. While the show is fictional, the estate is real and belongs to the current Earl and Countess of Carnarvon.

Photo: CBS

If you’ve never had a reason to visit to the Mall of America (in Minneapolis, Minnesota), now you do. On display is Princess Diana’s wedding gown that she wore when she married Prince Charles in 1981. For $21.50, you can see the 25foot silk train in person as well as 150 other items that celebrates Diana’s life and legacy.

For more information, visit the Mall of America site.

Highclere is open throughout the year to visitors. However, due to its popularity, you may want to check the website for any information on closings. Consider pre-booking your tour tickets.

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SHOP for a

CAUSE HOW CONSCIOUS SPENDING AT HOME CAN HELP THOSE ABROAD

Hand in Hand Fringe Bag, $228

Kate Spade If anyone gets that simple is beautiful, it’s Kate Spade. And with this philosophy, comes the Hand in Hand collection - a line inspired and created by women in war-torn countries. While the Hand in Hand products can be purchased through Kate Spade, it’s the organization of Women for Women that helps provide training of creating these designs. And by the looks of these items, the results are nothing short of wonderful.

Hand in Hand Bangle, $58

Katia Chambray Ballet Flats, $79

TOMS Shoes While charitable efforts by some companies are temporary, it’s always part of TOMS Shoes’ One for OneTM business model. Simply put, every time a customer pays for pair of TOMS, she has also purchased shoes for a child in need. To learn more, visit the company’s website. Better yet, add Start Something That Matters (written by TOMS’ owner Blake Mycoskie) to your reading list.

FEED Projects Similar to TOMS, each FEED bag purchased directly pays for a child or children through the UN World Food Programme (WFP).

Purchasing the FEED Peace Bag (below) will provide 25 meals in areas of war and conflict.

FEED Peace Bag, $50

Top 0646, $5.95

H&M H&M has always merged fashion with cost consciousness. In April, the company took its consciousness toward a Fashion Against AIDS campaign where a portion of sales from the special prints line will be going toward a variety of international youth HIV/AIDS awareness projects.

If you have time, make your contribution to the campaign by uploading a kiss picture. H&M will donate $1 to HIV/AIDS prevention for every photo received.

Wedge Ankle Boots, $795

Project Paz This may be the least known organization on this list, but the products available on Project Paz’s online store is just as worthy as their mission. According to the website “Project Paz is a non-profit organization created by a group of professionals living in New York City who want to promote peace in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. All the funds we raise support community development programs geared towards spreading hope to future generations and promoting peace in the region, one project at a time.” Take a look at some of these designs, and you’ll have little reason not to support this group.

‘Orphan Collection’ by Pretty Hiabisa, $38

Holly Dunlap 4 Macoha Holly Dunlap is a cool, chic woman with an eye for design. (It helps that she was a shoe designer for a few years.) During a trip to Malawi, she came across the Malawian Council for the Handicapped (MaCoHa) - an institution established to train qualified people with disabilities. With the help of the artisans of MaCoHa, Holly offers a line of hand-dyed pillows (like the one below) as well handwoven rugs and African-inspired textiles. The whole line is worth checking out.

Holly Dunlap 4 Machoa Pink Tie Dye Pillow, $65

Common Threadz When we were younger, our parents used to post our artwork on the refrigerator. Common Threadz has taken this concept further by taking illustrations created by orphans in Africa and placing them on t-shirts (pictured right). With the Orphan Collection, you can wear the illustrations and know that each purchase will feed an orphan for a month.

MY EUROPEAN VACATION: CG TRAVELS Name/Profession: Leslie Guettler, Travel Writer

So....where did your last European travels take you? Most recently I went around some of the UK – London, Liverpool, Belfast. In fact my last 3 trips across the Atlantic have been to the UK and Ireland – I’m starting to miss mainland Europe!

Why did you pick this location?

Almost all of my trips are a fluke of some sort – either I have a friend traveling there I want to meet up with or, as in my last trip to London, I had 5 days off of my regular job and called my mom, who’s a retired flight attendant, and said “Let’s go somewhere!” - we picked a city and off we went.

What did you enjoy most about it?

I’m a walker – my favorite way to explore a city is just to get a map and walk around and watch people and check out neighborhoods and stop into restaurants or bars that look interesting to me. Obviously in a bigger city there’s probably a particular museum or exhibit or building I want to check out, but any city that is walkable (and I find most are) I absolutely fall in love with.

London is surprisingly so – as are Venice, Rome, Dublin, Salzburg and even Paris.

What did you like least about it?

It doesn’t feel much like being in a foreign country. Part of the reason trips to places like Morocco are so vivid and memorable for me is that they were a complete departure (pun intended) from my real life – every sight, sound, taste, smell is new and thrilling and interesting. Sure it’s nice to know the language in the place you’re visiting, but I live in LA and speak English, so going to a big city and STILL speaking English isn’t a huge stretch for me. I like a bit of a challenge when I travel. That’s why we do it right, to get out of our comfort zone?

What was the best thing you ate?

Sticky toffee pudding. Hands down.

I still dream about it at night. And it’s good in ANY PUB you visit. Also Scotch eggs – why they’re so hard to find in the States I’ll never know… they are fabulous.

What was the best thing you bought?

I collect books that detail the general collections from museums around the world that I visit – so I got one from the National Gallery in London this time. I also found a great art print from this little shop in Notting Hill…for something like £20, and it’s 100 years old.

Would you do it again?

Absolutely! I can’t think of any place I’ve been where I go “I really don’t ever want to come here again.”

Liverpool was a huge surprise for me – I’d love to go back and explore it more, it’s a fantastic city and Liverpudlians are SUCH nice people. I’d really like to see the English countryside next time though – I just came home from New Zealand and it reminded me more than anywhere how much beautiful scenery means instead of seeing crowded cities all the time.

Belast peace walls

What are you general feelings about Europe? I love it! I go about once a year and it’s never enough; their history is fascinating, the food is varied and, generally-speaking very fresh, and as I said before, I LOVE walking everywhere. My favorite

Cecil Court - a pedestrian street in London known for its bookstores

my favorite way to explore a city is just to get a map and walk around, watch people and check out neighborhoods and stop into restaurants or bars that look interesting to me. thing though is their general take on life – they enjoy the little things, and they work to live, not the other way around like we do in the US. It’s a philosophy I genuinely wish we’d learn…that it doesn’t matter if you work at a grocery store or a butcher’s shop or a bank, or if you work 25 hours a week or 80 – do you spend time with your family? Do you leave your office early once in awhile or go meet friends for lunch or take a day off or a month’s vacation to see the world? Because everyone should…and we definitely don’t do enough of any of those at home.

Any advice for those planning the same trip? I’ll be honest – I don’t plan my days out when I go anywhere, and it’s usually for the best. I know what cities I’ll be in for which days, but that’s it. I highly recommend pinpointing a few general AREAS you want to go – London neighborhoods, the waterfront in Liverpool, Oxford, wherever – and making your way there with no set schedule. Check out the shops, restaurants, cathedral, museum, whatever – walk around, people-watch. It’s the best way to soak up the flavor of a place, because THAT’S what you’ll take home with you. You won’t remember or enjoy everything if you say “I have to get to these 5 museums today and buy 3 souvenirs.”

Also if I can interject a tip: send postcards. People LOVE them. It’s a lost art.

Best souvenir you’ve ever picked up? My Moroccan rug. I swore up and down before I left on that trip that I wouldn’t give in and buy such a hackneyed souvenir – I don’t need one, that’s for sure - but literally on my first day, in Meknes, we visited a quaint little rug shop belonging to a friend of the family we were staying with (surprise) and they totally sold me. I love having things around my house that I can point to and tell a story about, and in this case I will always remember that freezing cold, brilliantly sunny January day in the medina when I bought that thing. It’s a work of art. Plus I brought only a carryon suitcase so I had to jettison a few items of clothing at various hotels so that rug would fit for the trip home. It was worth it!

Where will your next travels take you? I just came back from New Zealand so there’s a bit of a respite now…I’m tossing around a short fall trip though – Venice, Berlin or a few days in Sydney are on the short list, and next year its Argentina!

Taking a walk along the docks in Liverpool.

Above: Leslie’s favorite souvenir–Moroccan rug.

More Leslie:

Leslie outside the Beatles Experience museum in Liverpool.

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Rovinj, Croatia

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MY EUROPEAN VACATION: S uzy G uese Name/Profession: Suzy Guese; Freelance Travel Writer/Blogger

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branch outside my comfort zone.

I had long dreamt about seeing Budapest’s Parliament building in person and finding Croatia’s Venetian side in small towns like Rovinj. I had also heard this part of Europe was less touristy and thus more inexpensive.

What did you enjoy most about it? The coffeehouses. Whether it is holing up in a coffeehouse in Vienna or Budapest, these places showed me a part of life in Europe I hadn’t seen before. The exchanges and conversations taking place inside these spaces coupled with a man in a tux serving you a perfect jolt of caffeine doesn’t get much better for me. Also being that it was freezing, it was the only place I truly felt warmth. This is where Eastern Europe battles the cold. Most of its attractions might be outside, but within the coffeehouses and cafes therein lays the attraction.

What did you like least about it? The cold. I would advise anyone looking to visit Eastern Europe to go in the summer. While I picked the off-season for the price and to avoid the crowds, many of the cities I couldn’t stroll idly as you would in the summertime.

Part of what I think you learn the most about Europe is through the simple act of wandering its streets.

It is a little hard to do that when you can’t feel your head, shoulders, knees and toes.

Freezing in Slovenia in my new coat.

So....where did your last European travels take you? I found myself frozen to the bone in Eastern Europe back at the end of January into early February 2012. I flew into Munich and drove down through Austria to Slovenia. After a visit to Lake Bled and Ljubljana, I made my way to Rovinj, Croatia for a taste of the coast. I then stopped over in Zagreb as I headed to the southeastern corner of Hungary. The plan was to head on to Romania but Europe’s worst cold snap forced many of the roads to close right where I was headed. I decided rather than becoming a headline on CNN and in need of a helicopter evacuation out of the Carpathians, I would head on up to Budapest for a few nights, then on to Vienna for four days and up to the Czech Republic to close out my tour. It is funny how I was most looking forward to seeing Romania and yet the country would not let me reach the border. I guess it gives me an excuse to come back someday.

Why did you pick this/these location(s)? I really wanted to see this part of Europe. Most of my travels to Europe had been centered on Western Europe.

While I love nothing more than a good pizza and piazza in Italy, I wanted to

What was the best thing you ate?

My first night in Vienna, I was headed out to the city’s most famous place for schnitzel. After two seconds in the cold, I settled for the nearest restaurant instead. Luckily it was the picture perfect meal. The Wiener Schnitzel was cooked perfectly, thin, crisp and tender. There wasn’t a soul in the place, just the family running it, trying to make a go of it in Vienna’s winter. As I devoured my schnitzel, I noticed the chef coming out of the kitchen and shifting his eyes toward my plate. He was checking to make sure I liked it. I could sense home with that meal. I think the best meals in Europe come when you don’t plan out where you are going to eat or research the

best place in the entire city. You just stumble upon some treasure of a restaurant and for a night claim it as your “hidden gem”.

What was the best thing you bought? I was just telling a friend the other day I need to get better about buying souvenirs for myself when I travel. I always forget to grab something, but I did purchase a down-comforter like coat I bought in Slovenia. While mostly out of necessity for the winter coat I packed could not battle the sub zero temperatures, I noticed many of the women in Eastern Europe were wearing these coats. There was something so Eastern European, so “From Russia with Love”, I couldn’t resist about these long coats. It became my uniform the whole rest of the trip and surprisingly helped me blend in with the locals.

Would you do it again? I’m not sure I would head all the way to the southeastern corner of Hungary again without reason or checking the weather, but I would love to revisit Budapest and some of the little towns in the Czech Republic. I would definitely go in the spring or summer.

I have a feeling Ljubljana is pure magic in the summer when all of the cafes take to the streets.

What are you general feelings about Europe? Europe is an addiction of mine since I first visited at the age of 8 years old. Europe was my first look at life on the other side of the ocean. I would return and fall madly in love

with Italy, studying abroad in the country for over a year.

I just admire the history in Europe. You really can feel as through you are in a time machine down certain corners and thoroughfares.

Any advice for those planning the same trip? Just because it is Eastern Europe doesn’t mean it will be cheap. As I was frequenting most of the major cities like Prague, Budapest and Vienna, the food and attraction prices were a lot steeper than I thought they would be. I would budget as you would for Western Europe.

Places like Croatia seemed much more affordable than neighboring Italy however. Also can I stress enough visiting when the weather is at least bearable?

Best souvenir you’ve ever picked up? Rome is a city I will always love more than the others. It is where I fell in love with travel, Europe and Italy at the same time. On my last visit just over a year ago, I decided I needed a souvenir, something for myself. When I was 14, the first time I visited Rome, I remembered picking up the most hideous of rings, one I thought was gorgeous at the time. It was huge.

I think I wanted a ring as big as my

Inside a coffeehouse in Vienna.

Above: Suzy’s favorite souvenir– Roman earrings.

“

You just stumble upon some treasure of a restaurant and for a night claim it as your “hidden gem”.

”

love for Rome. So on my last visit, I decided to be more tasteful in my jewelry selection. I picked up these earrings at a little shop near the Pantheon. They remind me of something a woman might have worn with a toga down to the Forum, or at least that is how my imagination would have it.

Where will your next travels take you? I just got back from a trip down to New Orleans in the United States. On the road back home I realized somewhere I want to go next, a place I have always wanted to visit and yet never do. Greece is the one that got away. I’m plotting a trip through the Greek islands potentially this September. I have a feeling I might fall in love with it too and thus prolong this European addiction of mine.

Schnitzel in Vienna

Budapest Parliament Building

Szeged, Hungary

More Suzy:

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What She Wore Anne Does London Oh Annie, we have loved watching your transformation from teen actress to a leading lady. Although we still see you as the chic Andrea Sachs from The Devil Wears Prada, we love your evolution from that role. We’re not even sure how it’s possible, but you’ve since become even more stylish in our eyes.

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ChicAnneStylish 4.

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1. H&M blazer, $34.95 2. Monki Lerima Top, 造8 3. Charming Charlie Side Braid Necklace, $9.97 4. Topshop Piped Knicker Shorts, $76 5. Stuart Weitzman Litely Open-Toe Slingback, $375 to

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Although we have many great fashion brands and stores in the US, there are shopping options from our western European neighbors that we are madly in love with.

MANGO madness Although the headquarters is rooted in Spain, we’re glad the company has extended its reach to the US. Affordable and chic, MANGO provides a muy bueno fashion line that we can’t seem to get enough of.

Bow navy stripes t-shirt, $19.99

Loose-fit pleated t-shirt $34.99

Elastic waist dress, $59.99

Shiny bowling handbag, $89.99

Five pockets skinny jeans, $39.99

Sandals, $129.99

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COIN the terms COIN is a popular department store chain in Italy. Unfortunately, all we can do is admire the items from the web, as COIN doesn’t ship to the US. CosÏ triste!

COIN store opening in Reggio Emilia.

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MONKI’ing around Monki started off a Swedish women’s brand, but is quickly taking the rest of Europe by storm. We have yet to see an American store, or find a way to buy from Monki online. But we will wait patiently as we keep visiting the website and feeling the Swedish love from this side of the pond.

Belle Earrings, ¤8

Monokomi, ¤10

Florianne blouse, ¤30

Heather shorts, ¤35

Fran Spectacle Case, ¤10

Daria ballet flats, ¤30

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Total ASOS A new discovery for to f rom (although the internet has been raving about this UK-based company for quite awhile). Because of its Internetonly shopping and reasonable prices, we like to think of it as Delia*s (remember the catalog ordering days?) older, more sophisticated sister.

As you can see, we cannot get enough of the dress options at ASOS.

River Island Chelsea Girl Floral Tea Dress, $45.45

Vila Strappy Drawstring Cutwork Sundress, $54.54

BA&SH Printed Cotton Shirt Dress With Contrast Waist, $232.69

Warehouse Triangle Dress, $154.52

PETITE Fit And Flare Dress With Crochet Waistband, $69.08

ASOS Mini Dress with Keyhole Back, $39.99

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Tulip Dress With Flute Sleeves, $54.54

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Ahhhh.....Harrods We can’t exactly mention European stores without mentioning Harrods - the Mecca of department stores. With a rich (and somewhat of a colorful) English history and “sensible restrictions” on its dress code, it is an mystical place for those of us who have never ventured within the store walls.

Instead of showcasing the luxury products Harrods is synonymous with, we feature the store’s limited collection that celebrate the Queen’s upcoming Diamond Jubilee. And the good news: Harrods ships to the US. (The bad news: the delivery charges might be a little painful to bear.)

Diamond Jubilee Teapot £64.95

EXCLUSIVE: Bond No.9 London Celebration (EDP, 100ml), £290.00

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Square Crown Cushion, £14.95

Regal Jubilee Apron £12.95

London Icons Tea Gift Set (3 x 125g), £19.95

World Of London Candy Globe (170g), £9.95 to

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Tarty Time

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An apple [tart] a day....

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“A world without tomatoes is like a string quartet without violins.�

- Laurie Colwin

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“Asparagus inspires gentle thoughts.�

- Charles Lamb

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ASPARAGUS AND MUSHROOM TART

Tart dough or pastry puff sheet* 15-20 skinny asparagus stalks 7 mushrooms, sliced 2 green onion stalks, chopped 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup guyere, shredded (optional) Preheat oven to 425-degrees. Roll out the tart dough on a greased cookie sheet and shape into a rectangle. In a bowl, mix together the vegetables and olive oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt & pepper.

Place vegetables on the dough. (If using cheese, spread evenly on top of the vegetables.) Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.

INDIVIDUAL TOMATO TARTS

Tart dough or pastry puff sheet* 2 roma tomatoes, sliced thinly 3 teaspoons dijon mustard 3 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil Herbes de Provence (optional) salt, pepper goat cheese (optional) Preheat oven to 400-degrees.

Split dough evenly between three individual tart pans. (If using premade pastry puff, a third of the sheet should fit perfectly into one tart pan.) Spread 1 teaspoon dijon mustard onto the base of each tart. Layer tomato slices to top.

Drizzle each tart with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Sprinkle Herbes de Provence, salt and pepper over oil. (If using, add 1-2 tablespoons of goat cheese to the top of the tart.) Bake for 20 minutes.

INDIVIDUAL APPLE TARTS Tart dough or pastry puff sheet* 1 green apple, sliced thinly 3 tablespoons fruit preserve of your choice (we used strawberry jelly) 3 teaspoons butter cinnamon sugar

Preheat oven to 450-degrees.

Split dough evenly between three individual tart pans. (If using premade pastry puff, a third of the sheet should fit perfectly into the tart pan.) Spread 1 tablespoon of preserve onto the dough of each tart pan. Layer with sliced apples. Sprinkle top with sugar and cinnamon. Dot each tart with 1 teaspoon of butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Best served with warm and topped with vanilla ice cream.

RASPBERRY CHOCOLATE GANACHE TART

Tart dough or pastry puff sheets* 8 oz bittersweet chocolate 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate 1 cup heavy cream (soy creamer also works well) 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 pints raspberry (You might have extra, but extra is always good!)

Preheat oven to 350-degrees.

Spread dough into 9-inch tart pan. Over a double boiler, melt chocolate. When melted, remove from heat and mix in heavy cream and vanilla. Pour chocolate into tart pan. Bake for 20 minutes. Allow to cool for about 30 minutes before garnishing with raspberries.

Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.

TART DOUGH

1-1/4 cup flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 8 tablespoons butter 1-2 tablespoon ice cold water 3 tablespoon sugar (for sweet tarts) In a food processor, add flour and salt. Start machine and add butter 1 tablespoon at a time. (For the sweet tarts, also add the sugar) Let the machine go until the dough forms into a ball to a ball. If after 2 minutes the dough doesn’t form into a ball, add water 1 tablespoon at a time.

When done, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. The dough must be at room temperature before using.

*Pastry puff sheets can be found in the freezer section of most grocery stores. to

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Perfect Souvenirs

Who needs another magnet or t-shirt? From now on, go straight for the sparkle and give yourself permission to wear your travel finds when you get home. If you’re in Oslo, we recommend Design Forum. How could you not want to rummage through eye-catching accessories?

And with prices ranging between 79 to 900 kroner (or $13 to $150), you’re bound to find something that won’t break the bank as you invest in your travel memories.

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BOOK IT! With an issue devoted to Europe, let’s just say that we’ve been inspired by the romantic notions of this American-bound vacation spot. And we’re not the only Americans to be swept away by the appeal of Europe. Check out these books for a few accounts of people leaving state side and going to the other side of the Atlantic.

don’t read on an empty stomach

The Sweet Life DAVID LEBOWITZ David Lebowitz lives a seemingly charmed life in Paris, or as he would say, a Sweet Life. Indeed. After having worked several professional kitchens in the US as a pastry chef, he packed up his things after the death of his partner to start a new life in Paris. Despite the circumstance that brought him to the city, the book is filled with humorous discoveries and experiences. The indulgent recipes are just an added bonus.

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Lunch in Paris: A Love Story, with Recipes ELIZABETH BARD Starting off a romance with a Parisian, American Elizabeth Bard doesn’t know what to expect.

But as she falls in love with the man (now her husband), she just as quickly embraces the culinary experience in and out of his kitchen.

She soon takes up the cooking and shares the recipes that have a permanent place in her French kitchen.

We dare you not to drool.

Food Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 Extraordinary Places to Eat Around the Globe NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC National Geographic does what it does best by providing pictures and wanting to move you to experience their food finds.

Pick up this book and explore some (or 500) good eats.

Join Them on the Journey

The Paris Wife PAULA MCLAIN A fictional account of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife Hadley as they journey to and experience Paris.

If you saw & enjoyed Midnight in Paris, this might be the book for you.

What’s on

Brit-Think, Ameri-Think: A Transatlantic Survival Guide JANE WALMSLEY

Neither Here Nor There: Travels in Europe BILL BRYSON

Living in London with her husband, American journalist Jane Walmsley gives us a comparison between the two cultures. Get ready for a chuckle or two.

An oldie but a goodie....Twenty years after backpacking through Europe, Bill Bryson retraces his trip. An honest and funny memoir.

your reading list?

“A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway. Some of those Bohemianera writers crafted the most amazing prose for travelers because THEY were wanderers themselves. My travel pals and I are always dragging dog-eared copies of Hemingway or Fitzgerald wherever we go. I also recently picked up The Art of Travel by Alain de Botton, who makes wonderful observations about the philosophy of traveling, so I’m looking forward to reading that next.”

-Leslie CG Travels

“I have Travels With Charley by John Steinbeck waiting for me to start.

It’s about Steinbeck traveling with his dog Charley on a road trip across the United States. I can’t believe I haven’t read it yet, but anything about hitting the road with your dog sounds good to me.”

-Suzy Guese Suzyguese.com to

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ISSUUs WITH BLOGS As an online magazine, we are constantly looking through other digital magazine and blogs for inspirations and to stay connected with trends. Here, we share with you some of the Issuus and blogs that have been catching our attention.

Digital Magazines

TRAVEL + LEISURE One of the most popular travel print magazines is now available (for FREE) in digital form.

MACHÉ Another food publication with fantastic ideas and accompanying photography. (We wouldn’t blame you if you try to reach into the pages to grab a bite or two.)

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(as seen on Issuu.com)

WAYFARE We cannot sing enough praises for this travel lifestyle magazine. With the design and layout of this publication, travel has never looked this good.

EST An Australian publication that explores architecture, design and fashion on a global scale.

We are smitten.

A LITTLE RELISH This 196-page Issuu covers the food scene in Montreal - the “European city of North America”.

Flip through and you’ll want to try everything (starting with the cover).

URBAN CYCLING This is part of graphic designer Katie King Grumford’s portfolio.

Flip through this visually stunning homage to the bicycle, and you’ll be bummed that this is a one-time issue.

Travel & Other Worldly Blogs A AND B C THE WORLD A beautiful blog run by Ashley and “B”. The couple currently lives in Seattle (and is planning a September wedding) but have archived posts of their travels in Southeast Asia. The photography is stunning.

IVORY POMEGRANATE We are addicted to this blog. Run by American Kirstin Styers, she documents life in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. While we’re not sure if we could live in Kyrgyzstan, we are incredibly fascinated with the country - no thanks to Kirstin!

TEA TIME IN WONDERLAND If you like London and food, this is the blog for you. (It’s definitely one of those sites you shouldn’t log onto if hungry!)

THE BLISSFUL ADVENTURER Michael Housewright is the man behind The Blissful Adventurer, and it’s easy to fall in love with his photographs, written thoughts and devotion to his wife. More impressively, Michael seems to respond to every comment on his posts (and there are A LOT of comments!). TBA represents everything that the blogging world was intended for.

Cool, Non-Travel Blogs

THE BEAUTY DEPARTMENT We have loved Lauren Conrad since her Laguna Beach days. We continue to love her as she shares hair, makeup and beauty tips on her blog.

CINEMAGRAPHS If you haven’t seen the part video-part pictures cinemagraphs created by From Me To You, we urge you to check it out now! to

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Not Just in Europe

Euro Trash is alive and well in the United States. At least in the form of a Portlandbased food truck. With offerings like Foie Gras (served on top of their signature Nah-Nah Chips - potato chips that are fried daily and tossed with a garlic aioli), Prawn Baguettes and Trashy B (bacon waffle topped with two eggs), there is no doubt that Euro Trash is welcomed wherever it goes.

More information on Euro Trash:

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Ciao for now.