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Shopping for textiles in Istanbul

Just outside of Vienna, Austria

Just outside of Vienna, Austria, 2012

This Summer's Travels

Due to a mixture laziness and forgetfulness, I've neglected to post any updates to the blog! To my faithful followers (hi mom!), I am going to start posting some updates about what I've been doing all summer. Lots of pictures to post and things to tell about Bulgaria, Austria, Turkey, and Greece!

HAPPY SEPTEMBER!

From Lagoudera to Omilos, Hydra Island, Greece

Lagoudera opened in 1958 as a nightclub for artists, muscians, and film stars. It was one of the most popular destinations on the tiny Greek island of Hydra. Today, where Lagoudera used to sit, you will find Omilos. In the few days I spent on Hydra, I found myself going to Omilos at least twice a day for the beautiful view, cozy white couches, and amazing food and drinks.

Omilos Restaurant & Bar
www.omilos-hydra.com
+302298053800

*Credit for the old photograph of Lagoudera to 'Hydra the Homeland of my Soul' (link)

Hydra Island, Greece

Hydra Island, Greece, 2012

Life in Sofia: Update

If I didn't mention it before, I should mention it now. I'll be living in Sofia, Bulgaria for the next 5-6 months. I'm on week two and I'm finally getting used to the city.

I've spent the last two weeks living in a hotel, feeling a bit disconnected. There is something strange about living in a building with a bunch of strangers who are all in transit. I'm excited to say that I will be moving into a great apartment in Doctor's Garden next week. Doctor's Garden is a gorgeous park in Sofia and happens to also sit in a neighborhood of the same name. Some of my favorite restaurants and cafes in the city are in this neighborhood, and I can't wait to share more!

For now, time to get some sleep. I leave for ISTANBUL tomorrow!

Greetings from Sofia!

My first morning in Sofia, Bulgaria. So far, my exploration has taken me as far as the currency exchange office and my hotel lobby. I'm excited to see what the city has to offer!

Bulgaria!

Just about to board a flight to Munich. Then, it's straight to Sofia, Bulgaria!

I can't wait!!

Featured on StyleLikeU!

Thanks to the fine folks over at StyleLikeU for featuring ME!

New Orleans at Christmastime

I can't think of a better place to spend the Christmas Holiday. Walking down Bourbon Street on Christmas, listening to a young brass band play "Stand by Me" on the street, Mardi Gras beads hanging from trees in the Garden District. There was something crude and romantic about the way the city lit up for the holiday. From midnight on Christmas day to 3:00am, I explored the jazz bars around Frenchmen st. and made it over to Mimi's to watch DJ Soul Sister spin soul and R&B records. It felt like being in a fantasy land, if that fantasy land had Christmas lights, $3 beers and James Brown records. Special thanks to the Roosevelt Hotel (pictured below) for the most spectacular indoor lights display.

"The 45 Places to go in 2012"

It's here! This year The New York Times puts Panama in at #1 on the list of the 45 Places to go in 2012. I'm pleased to see, at #2, one of my most recent and favorite destinations - Helsinki! Helisinki happens to be World Design Capital for 2012, as appointed by The International Council of Societies of Industrial Design. Not only is Helsinki one of the most welcoming places that I have ever visited, it is also one of the most progressive and forward-thinking.

The first African country on the list is one of my country's neighbors, Tanzania (#7). Two Californian cities - Oakland (#5) and San Diego (#14) - make the top 15. Thanks to Mr. Richard Branson and the fine folks at Virgin Galactic, Space is the #20 place to go in 2012.

I'm pleased to see a much more eclectic mix on this year's list. Who wants to join me in the Maldives? Here's hoping!

New York Times Slideshow: Where to Go in 2012

Favorite Restaurants: Patois in New Orleans, LA, USA

Patois
6078 Laurel Street
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Patois is located in the gorgeous Garden District neighborhood of New Orleans. This restaurant is amazing! Everything from their specialty cocktails to their wine list to their varied and creative menu makes this restaurant a real NoLA gem. From duck confit to potato gnocchi, there's an amazing array of dishes to try. Don't forget to have some of their incredible desserts (I recommend the homemade chocolate mint ice cream). Did I mention that this restaurant is AMAZING!? Thank you to the wonderful staff for a truly memorable Christmas Eve dinner.

St. Louis Cemetery No.1, New Orleans

Merry Christmas from New Orleans!

Roosevelt Hotel, New Orleans 2011

First day in New Orleans!

I arrived in New Orleans yesterday and, already, I'm in love with the city. Proper updates to follow. For now, I am still in recovery from the amazing fried shrimp po boy (and life changing oysters) at Acme Oyster House.

Every single person I've come across - from my Haitian cab driver J.B. to my waitress Rhonda - has shown so much southern hospitality. I never want to leave!

Santa Cruz and Big Sur, CA

Last month, I drove up north to Santa Cruz and Big Sur for a wedding. The wedding was for one of my dear friends, and a very talented photographer, Danielle Tice. There's nothing like hanging out by the beach, eating and drinking with great friends.