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Girls’ Week in CABO!!!

21 Mar

Oh hey sista friends. I know I’ve been a bad blogger recently but I’m trying to enjoy all there is about my last semester of college. Last week for spring break, 7 of my girlfriends and I went to Cabo San Lucas for 5 days of r&r. The trip was fabulous, our all-inclusive resort was beautiful, and the weather could not have been better! We stayed at the Riu Palace and bar hopped between Mango Deck and El Squid Roe. My friend Courtney and I also took an afternoon trip into town to the flea market, and a little excursion to Lover’s Beach one day :)

Playing around on the beach 10 feet away from the Riu Palace

Playing around on the beach 10 feet away from the Riu Palace

Water taxi in cabo

Goofing off in the water taxi

Heading to dinner one night :)

Pregaming at the hotel before cabbing it to El Squid Roe

Pregaming at the hotel before cabbing it to El Squid Roe

Party taxi :)

What are you doing for spring break? Have you ever been to Cabo? What do you do to relax when life is getting crazy?

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Spending Mardi Gras in New Orleans!

12 Feb

To celebrate Mardi Gras this year, three of my friends and I traveled to New Orleans for 5 days for an amazingly fun girls’ weekend! I hadn’t been to New Orleans since I was little, and I loved exploring the delicious food and unique culture of the city all while celebrating Mardi Gras. Here’s a little recap/rundown of the whirlwind trip:

We arrived Thursday afternoon and immediately dug into the wonderful food of New Orleans by enjoying a King Cake and some friend shrimp and oyster po’ boys.

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After we checked into the hotel, we went out to the parade route. We enjoyed some hurricanes and watched a few parades, ending in the MUSES parade, which is known as the all women’s parade. It was so much fun and we made lots of new friends :)

 

Mardi GrasI made friends with this adorable french bulldog en route to a little parade snack

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During the parades, the people on the floats throw out beads, cups, stuffed animals, flasks, light up toys, and even more expensive items. We caught quite a few awesome things.
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If you’re planning a trip to Mardi Gras, it’s definitely not the week to go on a diet. Although we were definitely eating a lot, we also stayed at the Double Tree on Canal, which was the perfect location for walking to all of the best parade spots, Bourbon Street, Canal, The Flea Market, and many others.

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On Friday we walked through the French Market and square and saw tons of artists displaying their work and crafts. We had an amazing meal at The French Market Restaurant where we chowed down on fried crawfish tails, fried oysters, seafoodgumbo, and etouffe!

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Once I had my fill of sweet tea and crawdaddies, we took a private tour of M.S. Rau Antiques and wandered around the touristy sites on Bourbon Street.

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Friday night we had VIP tickets to sit in the stands for the Hermes parade. Stand tickets are a splurge but definitely worth it to avoid some of the more raucous crowds. We also had our fill of yummy pina coladas and daquiris at this parade.
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Saturday we spent the day exploring the Flea Market where there were some amazing finds, and we stopped for beignets at Cafe Du Monde. We had VIP tickets for the stands again for the Endymion Parade, which is pretty much the most amazing. It has twice as many floats as the rest, costs over $2 million, featured one whole float longer than a football field, and was presided over by Kelly Clarkson! After the parade we had VIP access to 2 balcony bars on Bourbon Street, and later met up with old friends at Pat O’Brien’s. Sunday was spent eating and recovering and packing up to leave early yesterday morning. We also took a drive through the 9th ward to see some of the remaining effects of Hurricane Katrina, as well as a new area there called the Musician’s Village. Overall it was an amazing trip and I can’t wait to go back and explore all the things I didn’t have a chance to do this time. If you’re planning to visit New Orleans, these sites are a must and you won’t be disappointed!

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Hollywood adventures so far.

29 Jun

Confession: I wore a cute outfit to work today but when I went outside on my balcony to take pictures, I was intimidated by the people next door and their children out on their balcony… So I scampered away and hid inside. Like I said, working up the courage to take pictures of yourself is, in my opinion, the biggest bloggers’ dilemma there is. So to make up for it I thought I’d take a break from our regularly scheduled outfit posting to tell you a little bit about some of the exploring I’ve been doing around L.A., such as restaurants and the like. Here are some of my favorite things so far:

Yoga West L.A. – A close friend of mine is very into Kundalini yoga, so I thought I’d give it a try. I determined I’m more of a vinyasa person for sure, but the 90 minute session which focused on breathing and inner meditation was very relaxing, and overall a much needed break from the real world.

Fish Grill – This all pescatarian (and glatt kosher) restaurant has several locations around L.A. and features all vegetarian and fish dishes. I got the fish tacos, which were amazing, and my friend got an ahi tuna steak, which was equally delicious! Also very affordable :)

The White Arrows – Through a friend of a friend, I ended up going to an album release party for these guys at The Troubador. They were great live performers, and their indie rock vibe is fun to dance to and refreshing. If you’re a fan of MGMT and Passion Pit, you’ll love them!

Rock of Ages – My grandlittle and I went on a sushi date to Shibuya in Calabasas and then to see Rock of Ages. It was a bit cheesy, but super fun and I’m a HUGE classic rock junkie so I loved every second of it. My only complaint was that I couldn’t get up and dance in the theater :)

Corner Bakery – Apparently they’re everywhere in California, but I’d never ever seen or been to one before last weekend and they have the best brunch! There are a ton of yummy and health-conscious options under $5. And over 100 things under 600 calories! (P.S. I just saw on the website they opened one of these 2 minutes away from my house in Austin in the Arboretum!!!!!! I won’t be home until November but I’m already beyond excited.)

Century City Farmer’s Market – Every Thursday by my office there’s a huge farmer’s market with everything you could imagine. I’ve been using the weekly opportunity to stock up on homemade hummus, pita, and tabouleh, as well as Rainier cherries and strawberries. The food stands there are also divine, and if you stop by you positively must get the Hawaiian chicken and rice that’s the hallmark food stall of the market!

Hiking in Solstice Canyon – Malibu. Waterfalls. Hiking Trails. Need I say more?

I can’t believe I’m only in L.A. for 7 more weeks. What else are must-do’s before I head back to Tucson? What are your favorite local discoveries here??

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Viva Las Vegas!

26 May

It’s hard to believe that just last weekend I was in Vegas with 6 of my beautiful pledge sisters. It was a whirlwind weekend and I had the best time playing and exploring. I enjoyed it so much we’re already planning to go back for labor day weekend! I met up with everyone late ish on Friday at our hotel, Paris, (great location right in the middle of the strip and adequate amenities) after spending a few days in St.Louis with the fam. We had some celebratory drinks and starting getting ready to hit the town.

For our first night, we decided to go to TAO in the Venetian. We were able to get in no line, no cover, and each received an open bar wristband for the night and a VIP table! We had so much fun dancing the night away, making new friends, and wandering the strip taking in all the action.

On Saturday, we enjoyed sleeping in a bit and then headed back to the Venetian for a pool party at Tao Beach. We spent the whole day hanging out in a cabana enjoying Benny Benassi dj about 20 feet away from us. Great drinks, company, and entertainment!

Saturday night after recovering from the day, we went out to Marquee at the Cosmopolitan. (No pics… sorry!) After some dancing, we headed to the Bellagio to gamble a little before heading home the next day. I even ended up being luckier than usual at blackjack. We finally stumbled back to our room around 6:30am to sleep for a few hours before we packed up our room and said our goodbyes for the summer. My sisters had an early ish flight, and my evening flight ended up getting delayed an additional 4 hours (don’t even get me started) so I spent Sunday by myself at the Paris pool reading and tanning. Life is tough, right? Unfortunately we didn’t have time to see any shows while we were there, but I definitely made mental notes for next time.

Have you ever been to Las Vegas? What are your must-dos when in town? What shows/clubs/restaurants do you recommend? I’m heading back in a few months and I would love suggestions!

P.S… I officially move to Los Angeles in 6 days for a summer internship at a major cable network… AHHH!!!

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Resort Weekend Essentials

7 May

Well finals (and junior year) are finally over, and Pam and Bruce came out to play for the weekend! We’re spending four days at the Omni National Resort enjoying lots of pool time, pina coladas, wonderful food, and a few spa indulgences. This afternoon we took a brief journey to campus for my Phi Beta Kappa initiation, but other than that it’s all much needed r&r. Here are some of my can’t-live-without essentials for a weekend away from it all.

You can’t go wrong with classic Ray Ban aviators. The polarized lenses are a must for shielding eyes from the sun, and they go with everything. This pair is a steal from Zappos at under $100!

Forever 21 has a huge selection of straw floppy hats right now in all colors and styles (even stripes!) Being so fair, if I don’t wear a hat I literally sizzle and fry like a piece of bacon. #palepeopleproblems

Of course you’ll need a cute tote bag for carrying around all of your magazines and sunscreen. This striped number (also from F21) is affordable and easy to clean too!

Simple Havaiana flip flops are a MUST. They’re durable, comfortable, easy to rinse off, and the little touch of bling is just right for the pool. I love mine!

Aside from my trusty SPF 100 (sorry I’m not sorry, y’all) those are my main go-to’s for the resort or a day out to the beach! What do you have to have for lounging in the sun? Did I miss anything?

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Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao: A photo travel guide

29 Dec

Well, I’ve officially been back in the country for 48 hours now after a whirlwind 8 days on a cruise to the Dutch Lesser Netherlands Antilles. Here are some photos from my trip and a few tips and suggestions if you ever find yourself 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela!

We cruised out of Ft.Lauderdale for 8 days on Holland America’s Westerdam. It was our first time on the cruise line, (though my 16th time on a cruise ship,) which was definitely adequate though not our favorite ever. Highlights were the casino, spa, and daily poolside fajita bar, lowlights were lack of nightlife on-board and no drink specials.

My 88-year-old Grandfather and I enjoying the private island of Half Moon Cay, Bahamas.

Overall, we were a bit underwhelmed by Aruba. The city itself is pretty filthy and not too enjoyable. The beaches, however, did not disappoint. We took a short ride on the #10 public bus ($2.30 roundtrip per person) to the Amsterdam Hotel and walked across the street to their stretch of Eagle Beach. The sand was soft, water warm, chairs free, and drinks flowing- definitely a must! My cousins and I also spent time in the city later at night at a little dive bar which made for extremely interesting people watching.

Curacao was definitely a quaint little town, very clean and pretty. We walked all over the shopping district looking at beautiful jewelry. We also passed through the floating market, a collective of junk boats from Venezuela that commute back and forth selling fresh produce and handicrafts. Definitely walk along the historic footbridge across the channel, or take the ferry :)

Bonaire was probably our favorite port of call. With just over 2,000 citizens, it’s truly an unspoiled paradise full of amazing snorkeling, gorgeous beaches, lush greenery, and colorful native flamingo and donkey populations. The island is quiet and vibrant, and the kindness of the inhabitants is contagious. We took a taxi to the south side of the island to Sorobon Beach, where I sunbathed and my cousins played around in the water and attempted to learn to windsurf. My mom enjoyed visiting the local craft market as well!

Grandpa and I heading to the formal dining room for dinner.

Have you ever been to any of these islands? What did you do? Did you go anywhere else this holiday season? I had so much to catch up on all of your wonderful blogs, tell me how your holiday went! And oh yeah, happy new year too :)

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Aruba, Jamaica, oooh I wanna take ya…

14 Dec

I can’t believe it’s here already, but this coming Sunday I’ll be headed on a cruise with my parents and extended family to Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, all islands just north of the coast of Venezuela, in the Lesser Netherlands Antilles. Although we travel to the Southern Caribbean every Christmas, I’ve never been to any of these three places before and I’m so excited! Have any of y’all ever been there before? What are the best things to see/do/eat?? Help me plan please! I’ll be off the radar for about 9 days, and I was wondering if anyone’s interested in guest posting here while I’m gone? I’ve never done this before, not sure if any of you are even out there reading this. But if so, shoot me an e-mail and let’s make it happen!

*Title courtesy of The Beach Boys

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Tell the world I’m coming home

14 Sep

Just for the weekend, that is. But it’s going to be a glorious weekend for multiple reasons. One- my amazing mother’s birthday is this week! I won’t tell how old she’s turning, but she still has it going on, obvi!

Mommy Pam and me before senior prom, 2009

Reason number two why Austin is gonna be poppin’ this weekend: AUSTIN CITY LIMITS MUSIC FESTIVAL 2011!!!! (cue rowdy hippies and three jam packed days of awesome music, food, and art.) I was lucky enough to 3-day-pass it to ACL Fest in 2006, 2007, and 2008, but alas the festivals of 2009 and 2010 were made impossible due to the evil finagling of college professors who apparently want me to remain trapped in their classrooms to learn  or something ridiculous like that… (jokes, obviously.) But this year I’m back with a vengeance and the lineup is not going to disappoint.

Among a few of the acts I’ll be catching are Kanye West, Coldplay, Arcade Fire, Stevie Wonder, Alison Krauss, Nas and Damian Marley (sons of Bob), Cee Lo Green, Bright Eyes, Ray LaMontagne, Santigold (formerly known as Santogold), Pretty Lights, Skrillex, Iron & Wine, Foster the People, Cold War Kids, Chiddy Bang, Jack Ingram…. and about one hundred others! My favorite thing about ACL is the mix of people and genres around the festival grounds. There really is something for everyone and I always meet the most interesting Austinites and out-of-town visitors, and leave with a bunch of favorite new bands. Here are some photos from ACLs past:

Sunset over Zilker Park

Masses of people and sardonic flags, so you can find your peeps... cell service is questionable at the park

Me and my best friend Cassie enjoying a show and being goofy

The Flaming Lips.... being the flaming lips.

Stage climbing is highly encouraged for everyone from The Raconteurs to Matisyahu

I’ll be back later with some can’t-miss music vids, concert run-downs, and a guide to getting the most out of crazy, packed, dirty music festivals! Who are your favorite artists? What’s your favorite show you’ve ever been to? Anyone else going to be around ACL? Continue reading →

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Back from Paris, and I moved to LA!

17 Jun

Sorry for the lack of posts this week… I got into L.A. from Paris on Monday (after 3 days of airports, yuck) and have been spending the last few days moving, spending time with family, and generally getting acclimated and time-adjusted to my new hometown :) Of course this included starting a new part-time internship and having 3 interviews for other jobs.

So far in my internship at a Hollywood production company I learned how to make coffee, pick up dry cleaning, sort receipts for the accountant, walk the owner’s bajillion dollar dog (some rare species of Japanese fox hunting dog?), and pick up a specific magazine at a news stand and cut out all the photos of a certain celebrity to make a large collage on one wall of the office. I kid you not- life size celebrity collage. I guess you could say I’m earning my stripes. So far it has definitely been a learning experience and I’m hopeful that I’ll soon be trusted enough to take care of slightly more important tasks. But I guess we’ll see. Additionally thus far in Los Angeles I’ve read about 350 pages worth of scripts and only disliked one of them, so that’s been fun.

I’m also enjoying exploring all the yummy new restaurants around. I just added LA to my Groupon and Living Social so I learn about the cool stuff in my area. Today I spent time with family around the Santa Monica Pier area and attempted to learn to drive in Friday afternoon traffic; let’s just call that a 2 hour long adventure and leave it at that shall we? I absolutely love Los Angeles so far and I have another interview on Monday so wish me luck! After this weekend I should have way more time to post, but for now here are some photos from Paris <3

My cousin and I at the Lhouvre

One of many (and I mean many) nutella crepes

Day trip to the beach city of Arcachon

Freshly squeezed juices at a farmer's market in Bordeaux

Eating Luaduree macarons under the awning of the Church of the Madeline after getting caught outside in an awful thunderstorm.

Well that’s just a little teaser of the adventures I have to tell you about. Also, I’m definitely going to get back to some fashion blogging as I’m missing it dearly. Bon weekend!

Bisous,

Rachel

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Photo Diary: Northern Israel, Sfat, and Tiberias

13 Jun

As you read this, I’m en route to Los Angeles, finally! After a whirlwind month long adventure in Israel and France, I’m pretty excited to get back to where all the signs are english and to see my parents, of course. Here’s a little taste of some of my time in Israel, a weekend trip to the mystical city of Sfat (birthplace of Kabbalah) and also time enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Tiberias, on the Sea of Galilee.

Me and the boyfriend at the Gush Et'Tzion winery outside of Hebron

The boyfriend and I on a super fun disco boat ride in Tiberias, taking a break from dancing.

Street vendor selling wares in the winding alleys of Sfat (also Szfat or Safed)

A man about to make me a Yemenite street pancake. (I don't know the authentic name for this, sorry.)

Think a caprese salad inside of a fresh non-sweet pancake-ish wrap.

Deliciousness.

Alright well I’m out of time on my pay by the minute internet machine at Charles De Galle Airport, next time I write I’ll be in LA!

Bisous,

Rachel

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