CURATED TRAVEL: Postcard from the Crown Princess on the Eastern Caribbean

CURATED TRAVEL: Postcard from the Crown Princess on the Eastern Caribbean

This is just a peek of life on the Crown Princess sailing on the Eastern Caribbean. After 8 days floating on this stately cruise ship, I have a new appreciation for the fine art of cruising. The Caribbean is just as beautiful as ever with the shimmering turquoise waters, sugar sand beaches and beguiling breezes.

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Packing for a Cruise Vacation to the Caribbean

Packing for a Cruise Vacation to the Caribbean

While packing is always a bit of a challenge for me, I'm realizing that packing for a cruise is a bit different than a resort getaway. On this cruise, there are two formal nights. While not exactly the ball gown type, I'm happy to throw on some pretty black pieces and a statement necklace with a stylish clutch. I'll pack several pairs of low sandals with non-skid soles, a gallon of sunscreen, several sarongs and swimsuits. I purchased a new hat, especially for shore excursions, as well as a waterproof bag to house camera and essentials for our shore excursions. My iPad is loaded with new reads and tunes.

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Curated Hotel: A Sublime Getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica

Curated Hotel: A Sublime Getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica

In late August, Scott and I enjoyed a sublime getaway to Zoetry Montego Bay in Jamaica. We were celebrating his “retirement moon” and our 17th wedding anniversary. From the moment we arrived, served with cool towels and chilled prosecco, we felt “at home”; just as we always do at Zoetry resorts. This luxurious boutique, beachfront resort has only 49 suites which make for an intimate, relaxing stay of unlimited luxury.

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How to Make Your Dream Bucket List Trip a Reality

How to Make Your Dream Bucket List Trip a Reality

This image was taken at the romantic and luxurious Ladera Resort while Scott and I were traveling in St. Lucia several years ago. For me, this island was definitely on my list of dream bucket list destinations and it did not disappoint. For some people, a dream destination pops easily into mind and they know exactly where they would go in a heartbeat if there were no obstacles.  For others, it’s a bit more ambiguous. You might have an idea about what you’d like, but you might not be entirely certain where you’d have your passport stamped if the opportunity came up tomorrow.

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Ocean Vs. River Cruising: Which One is for You?

Ocean Vs. River Cruising: Which One is for You?

When it comes to taking a cruise on river or ocean, it’s pretty tough to go wrong. Both offer incredible views, luxurious amenities, and the opportunity to explore interesting ports.But each one comes with its own unique perks, and depending on your specific needs for your next trip, you might find that one is a slightly better fit than the other. So what are the major differences?
One big difference can be summed up in one word: intimacy. River cruises tend to be much smaller (190 max vs. up to 6,200 on the largest ocean cruises), and as a result, you’re much more likely to be interacting with other passengers and crew members.

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CURATED TRAVEL - Dream Destination: Cobblers Cove, Barbados

CURATED TRAVEL - Dream Destination: Cobblers Cove, Barbados

I must have the Caribbean on my mind with a getaway to the tropics on the calendar in the near future. While each island has a unique personality it's hard to beat this one. The sugar sand beaches and fragrant breezes are unforgettable in Barbados. Scott and I were there in 2010 and the vibe of this tropical paradise is the stuff of daydreams.

While researching luxury destinations for a Caribbean honeymoon for travel clients, I discovered Cobblers Cove on the tropical island of Barbados. At Cobblers Cover, the pink and white striped umbrellas, plantation shutters, lush gardens and luxurious Caribbean style suites will take your breath away. Take a peek at this dream destination.

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Curated Travel Dream Destination: Amanyara Turks & Caicos

Curated Travel Dream Destination: Amanyara Turks & Caicos

Amanyara in Turks and Caicos features a combination of pavilions and villas which sit in harmony with the environment. The buildings have low roof lines that converge with the landscape, embracing lakes, ponds and an oceanfront setting that includes low rocky headlands and a sweeping white sand beach. The contemporary design villas have a dramatic overhanging roof line that creates shaded outdoor areas on the three terraces.

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A Visit to Punta Sur: Colors of the Caribbean

A Visit to Punta Sur: Colors of the Caribbean

On our recent trip to Isla Mujeres the concierge on the yacht, Alexander, told us we must visit Punta Sur, “It’s magical”. We rented a golf cart on day two and made it a point to put this picturesque spot on our itinerary.


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How to Create Resort Wear Out of a Bra & Belt (when your luggage is delayed)

How to Create Resort Wear Out of a Bra & Belt (when your luggage is delayed)

Having no luggage for the first 4 days of our Caribbean vacation was a good reminder to always be prepared with well stocked carry on luggage. If you followed our trip to the Dominican Republic in July you will know that our journey took some unexpected turns.


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Curated Hotel: Paradise Found at Zoetry Agua Punta Cana in Dominican Republic

Curated Hotel: Paradise Found at Zoetry Agua Punta Cana in Dominican Republic

Five days into our Caribbean vacation in the Dominican Republic we found it…..pure bliss. Our journey started with a flight to San Francisco just following a tragic plane crash–cancelled flights and an unplanned evening in Manhattan. Lost luggage and a tropical storm did not deter us from seeking our much needed R and R.

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Birthday in Paradise at Zoetry in Dominican Republic!

I've always been secretly happy that my birthday is on July 15th and smack dab in the middle of summer. It means I've never had to go to school and usually not to work on my birthday.

This year the timing was perfect for my birthday as we are enjoying our last couple of days in the tropical paradise of Dominican Republic.

My favorite birthday companion #spoiled me a bit

With a significant number of difficulties marking the beginning of our trip this phase at Zoetry Agua has been completely sublime.

This little guy has kept us company during breakfast on our terrace.

Some spa time made the birthday girl very happy.

I'm not politically minded and I thought it was fun to see that Jon Stewart had 'favorited' one of my tweets.

Our dinner with some of our new fabulous friends from the pool. We laughed and bombed out at a merengue dance lesson together later.

Thanks for making my birthday perfect and hopefully we will all end up at Zoetry again someday!

I just wanted to say a quick thank you for so many lovely birthday wishes on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and text.

I feel truly blessed this year that my world has expanded in so many

incredible ways. The connections I've made with Stylemindchic Life mean the world to me.

Happy Birthday to my lovely mom today! Though we are separated by distance our birthdays always

stand side by side (she always tells me I was an early birthday present).

Looking forward to celebrating together.

Thanks for stopping by Stylemindchic Life!

Can't wait to catch up with everyone on our return.

xx,

                                         Curated Collections at my Stylemindchic Boutique!