Category Archives: Lifestyle
Laid Back Luxury in Ambergris Caye, Belize: Coco Beach Resort and Belizean Shores.
Coco Beach Resort, located 3.5 miles from the town of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye is a laid back luxurious 4 star resort. With a total of 58 rooms and suites ranging from luxury hotel rooms to seaview penthouses the resort remains boutique yet large enough with tons of amenities and entertainment options. The suites are elegant and luxe with modern furnishings, full kitchens, large patios or balconies, smart TV’s and WIFI throughout.
There are two large pools, one with a waterslide perfect for kids, or kids at heart, and a beachfront pool with a hear shaped jacuzzi, swim-up bar and lounge chairs in the pool.
There are kayaks and paddle boards available complimentary from the watersports dock. Guests can book snorkeling and scuba diving excursions with tuffenuffbz.com to the second largest barrier reef in the world located just a couple miles from the resort.
The resort offers a fitness center, mobile spa services, available beachside or ensuite through a partnership with Escape Day Spa. Complimentary bikes are available for a ride along the beach, as is a life size chess board, table tennis, and pool volleyball. Golf Carts are available for rent, and are the choice of transportation for most guests on the island.
The dining options range from all day dining and cocktails at the poolside Cocoblanca Pool Bar to fine dining at Cocoblanca Restaurant. The fare is local with lots of seafood options, fresh ceviche, fresh fish, lobster (in season) and traditional Belizean dishes. Breakfast is served at the Cocoblanca Pool bar as well. There is a Sunday BBQ and weekly live entertainment.
Please visit: sandypointresorts.com to book your stay.
Weddings are a big deal at Coco Beach. There are numerous wedding packages available that the onsite wedding coordinator can help with. From intimate beach weddings for just the couple to larger gatherings with family and friends for a full dream destination wedding. Honeymoon packages are available and can be customized to the couples wants and needs.
Sister property Belizean Shores, just a 5 minute stroll on the beach, is a relaxed more affordable family friendly vacation option. Authentic island decor, the suites range from pool view lower level suites to sea front upper level suites. Each suite has a separate bedroom, a sleeper sofa in the living room, some suites have a loft space with sofa bed or twin beds. There is a full kitchen so guests can cook meals for the family. Room service is available poolside or in the suites, delivered from Coco Beach next door.
For more info and to book your stay please visit: sandypointresorts.com
Getting to Ambregis Caye is easy and convenient with Maya Island Air. There are several flights available from Belize International Airport(BZE) The 15 minute flight offers unparalleled views of the Barrier Reef below. The planes carry from 3 to 12 passengers and offer a safe and comfortable experience. The airline serves many cities and islands in Belize. Coco Beach Resort can help guests book their roundtrip from BZE to San Pedro.
For more info on Maya Island Air please visit: mayaislandair.com
Exploring San Pedro and Ambregis Caye is a fun experience. When guests want to venture out of the resort for a bite to eat we recommend O Restaurant at the Las Terrazas resort located just about a 7 minute walk from Belizean Shores. The menu offers fresh seafood as well as Mexican and Italian options, along with tropical cocktails.
For more info and to make a reservation please visit: lasterrazasresort.com
Another restaurant and bar worth a visit while at Coco Beach is Aji Tapa Bar and Restaurant. Located about 15 minutes south of the resort, the restaurant offers complimentary pick and drop offs. Ocean views and a Tapas menu with cuisine from Spain, there are a variety of Paellas, along with ceviches, salads and steak options.
Please visit: bvrbelize.com/aji-tapas/ to book a reservation.
No visit to Ambregis Caye is complete without a visit to Secret Beach. A 20 minute golf cart ride bring guests to a large stretch of white sand beaches, a variety of restaurants and bars that offer complimentary lounge chairs, tables in the water, and a waterpark. We even made a doggie friend for the day. For more info visit: secretbeachsanpedro.com
Weekend Getaway to Boston on a Seaplane
Tailwind Air offers quick, safe, and super fun flights from New York City to Boston and to several other cities on the Eastern Seaboard including the Hamptons and Cape Cod.
The seaplanes are 8 seaters, outfitted with comfy leather seats, power outlets, with a selection of onboard snacks and drinks. Operated by an experienced 2 man or woman crew, from takeoff, in our case from the East River on 23rd street to landing in beautiful Boston Harbor, the flight was about 75 minutes long, with amazing views and a unique travel experience. There are no long rides to the airport, no TSA lines, check- in takes about 10 minutes, so when traveling for business or a quick weekend getaway, there are no hours wasted getting to and from the plane.
For more info and to book your flight please visit: flytailwind.com
The Lenox Hotel located in the upscale Back Bay Area of Boston is the perfect boutique hotel for a weekend getaway. Part of The Historic Hotels of America Hotel Group, the rooms are decorated, with modern design, comfy bedding, and yes some even have real working fireplaces. The hotel itself is steps away from Newbury Street, filled with restaurants, cafes, bars and shopping options.
To book your next stay visit: lenoxhotel.com
City Table is located in the Lenox Hotel. The casual eatery offers a largely seafood inspired menu, including the must have fresh oysters, as well as a creative cocktail menu, and a very popular weekend brunch. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the service is very friendly and the vibe is chill yet sophisticated. citytableboston.com
This Weekend Dan’s Taste Presents GrillHampton on 8/20 at Nova’s Ark
By Maya Litovsky
EnCourage Kids Foundation 18th Annual Golf Outing and Awards Ceremony
By Maya Litovsky
The enCourage Kids Foundation hosted their 18th Annual Golf Outing to more than 250 sponsors and guests at the Pine Hollow Country Club and The Mill River Club. After a day on the course, golfers and guests came together for an award ceremony led by Hank Celestino – L&L Holding & Event Chair, to celebrate this year’s honorees, Julie Arce of JLL, Rosemarie Krol – CBRE and Tiffany Mizen – IBM.
This year, one of the enCourage Kids, Danielle Sass along with her family attended the outing. Danielle was born with a rare neurological condition in which one side of her brain is abnormally larger than the other. From an early age, she experienced frequent seizures and the only remedy was to remove the affected half of her brain. “We are so grateful for the leadership of Michele Hall Duncan and the many programs such as Camp Pontiac, that brings happiness and a sense of normalcy to Danielle and my family,” said Hal Sass. “We are beyond grateful for their work, for the other families we have met and the experiences that we have enjoyed along the way.”
“I’m so grateful for the support of all the attendees, our sponsors and the many donors that continue to embrace our programs,” said Michele Hall Duncan – President & CEO enCourage Kids Foundation. “It is families such as the Sass family that keeps us working diligently to make a difference in the lives of the children and their families who need us most.”
“I couldn’t be happier with the work of our team and the lives that we change through our programs,” said Joe Wessley – Encourage Kids Board Chair. “I’m grateful for all those who continue to support our mission and who have come out today to make a difference.”
EnCourage Kids raised over $250,000 though sponsorships, raffles that included some amazing hotel stays, golf packages and gift certificates to world class restaurants, a Par 3 challenge, prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place foursomes and Hole-in-One prizes including a 2021 Range Rover. Owl’s Brew Boozy Tea provided beverages on the course at the cocktail reception, Moo La La Catering provided a delicious ice cream station and Hydr8 provided bottled water.
About enCourage Kids Foundation
enCourage Kids Foundation helps humanize healthcare for children and their families by resourcing impact-driven pediatric programs and supporting the Child Life Community. enCourage Kids Foundation envisions a world where every child—regardless of the difficulty of his or her medical journey—experiences joy, hope, resilience, and healing.
enCourage Kids has served over one million children and over 300 hospitals across the nation. www.encourage-kids.org
Sustainable Swim Week Brings the Rewired Mind Retreat Eco Consciousness Lounge and Ethical Fashion
By Maya Litovsky
- Miami/FL Sustainable Swim Week, an official Miami Fashion Event, brings ‘Consciousness – Couture & Crypto’ via The Rewired Mind Retreat and Sustainable Fashion Showcases. The event is set to coincide with the 32nd Annual Miami Swim Week from Thursday, July 8 to Sunday, July 11, 2021. In association with AdAvenueGroup – Forbes France and ArtBasil, The Rewired Mind Retreat, Friday July 9 from 8:30am to 5pm is hosting “A Deep Dive into Sustainability” including a full spectrum of solutions; from personal to environmental. The four-day event unspools at the Kimpton Angler’s Hotel, 660 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139.
- Program for Sustainable Swim Week
- RSVP – www.therewiredmind.com
- https://fashionweekonline.com/miami/schedule
MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / July 3, 2021 / Join in Sustainable Swim Week, July 8 – 11, 2021 featuring an immersive showcase designed to re-imagine and re-define fashion today. Panels are set to explore Mindset Re-sets, Eco & Ethical Fashion, Financial Intelligence and Beauty Inside and Out.
Sustainable Swim Week will premiere with a Crypto Cocktail Reception, Model Casting and NFT Art Exhibit on Thursday, July 8 from 5 – 8pm. Guests are invited to make an eco-fashion statement with attire that is revamped, up cycled or re-imagined. Together we can make fashion “circular” while helping solve global challenges like microfibers in our oceans and exploding landfills.
The Rewired Mind Retreat on Friday, July 9 from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm at the Kimpton Angler’s Gallery presided over by Kristen Connell, Founder of The Rewired Mind Retreat . The one day summit is designed to rejuvenate, refresh and reboot. Guests and distinguished panelists are encouraged to immerse themselves in sustainable lifestyle solutions that are equally groundbreaking and transformative while creating new milestones along life’s journey. The day is curated for those seeking a full-spectrum upgrade both inside and out. Distinguished panelists will provide insight, immersive experiences and actionable solutions that are sure to level-up the weeklong string of cocktails and catwalks throughout Miami Beach.
The Keynote Speaker for the event is Forbes Riley, award-winning TV host, author and one of the World’s Leading Health & Wellness experts. She is an inductee of the National Fitness Hall of Fame.
Also sharing their mission are Shannon King -Transcontinental™ Miss Texas USA Universe , Natalie Craig, ‘Walk in Their Shoes’ – a philanthropy empowering high risk children with new attire in collaboration with Under Armour™. Pamela Chanel David , author of “ The Reinvented Life,” empowers all to create their best personal and professional lives. Tiffany Sexton is presiding over the personal empowerment panel. Her mantra is “You can’t change what has happened, but you can create a better future if you choose to via operating as a survivor.”
Shelby Thomas, Co-founder and CEO of the Ocean Rescue Alliance , and 1000 Mermaids, a marine conservation and restoration nonprofit organization, brings her passion about preserving our natural ecosystems to Sustainable Swim Week 2021. She is a panelist on the Ocean & Environmental Conservancy focusing on stewardship of our fragile eco system. Financial Intelligence & Crypto Consciousness will be explored with Fletcher Jewett , Robbie Long, Philip Nicozisis, Alejandro Glatt, Juan Carlos Caceres and moderated by Sara Quirconi . Today there are still doubts about the consequences of wide crypto currency adoption. In particular, many skeptics and environmentalists have raised concerns about energy consumption in mining crypto.
The day-long retreat will evolve into an evening rooftop fashion ‘fete’ with sustainable swim and resort wear by Sage Larock, TikiYogi and designers advancing in the Eco Channel challenge. Signature “conscious cocktails” mixed by Frankly Vodka and Rum Barcelo. to Taryn Larock. Sage Larock swimwear is a luxury brand produced ethically in Miami and Los Angeles out of upcycled fishing nets. Also working behind the ‘seams’ is Marisol Rocha with her latest TikiYogi collection, inspired by her stints in Bali and now Biscayne Bay.
An independent activation, Saturday, July 10th will see Tayo Ishola’s ‘Back to Eden’ fashion show elevates small businesses, women in leadership, health and wellness cognoscente. The four woman-owned brands: Eido Swimwear (also the event host), Abacaxi, Jnaba Diallo and Voglia Swimwear will be modeled in the evening showcase.
Annette Bibby Oliver of Dreamhouse MBG direct from Los Angeles and NYC will showcase everything from haute couture to emerging fashion “disruptors”. She is spearheading the much-anticipated Rooftop Grand Finale, ‘One Night in Tangier’ Sunday, July 11 from 6:00pm to 10:30 pm . An inclusive and diverse cast of designers will be basking in the halo effect of Lisa Nicole Collection (BravoTV’s ‘Married to Medicine’) and Alaini Taylor by ‘Murph.’ She launched her career designing for ‘ Beyonce ‘ with Diviant La Vie . Jalu , a debut swim collection by Jose Alexzander , and De La Concepcion , Alister Mekhai Eyewear , Tote N’ Carry will all be taking a turn on the runway.
Alexzander of Jalu is a committed contributor to the pantheon of sustainable and ethical design. His ‘Made in America’ collection is stylish, flattering and uncompromising. He will be joined by up cycled and ocean environmentalists who collectively advocate that “we are each responsible for creating and stewarding a greener planet.” The feel is luxurious belying the fact the fabrics are a magical result of recycled post consumer waste. More than fashion several spokespersons advancing beauty both inside and out will include Lorena Cosentino of Illari Skin, Beverlee Felkner of Beverlee Botanicals and Natalie Reeves of Nutritional Longevity .
“Fashion shows today are so much more than just connecting with retail buyers,” said Annette Biddy Oliver of Dreamhouse MBG , host of Sunday’s, July 11th Roof Top event themed – One Night in Tangier . “They can serve as valuable catalysts for brands by helping assert their place in culture, driving engagement with customers and the press.”
READ MORE about our distinguished panel of Guest speakers and moderators
Adalinda’s , Planet Fashion TV , Swim the Globe , Art Hearts and others are putting a unique spin on ethical fashion that follows the ‘thread’ from manufacturer to distribution and beyond. The entire ‘Sustainable Swim Week’ program is curated to provide an insider’s guide to sustainable well-being on all levels via multi layered upgrades. Sustainable Swim Week and The Rewired Mind Retreat is an engaging experience with meditation, mindset resets, immersive beauty demonstrations and conversations with those at the forefront of sustainable transformation and impeccable taste.
rsvp www.therewiredmind.com or www.artbasil.org
Read More About our distinguished panel of guest speakers: http://artbasil.org/sustainable-swim-week-brings-the-rewired-mind-retreat-eco-consciousness-lounge-and-ethical-fashion-read-more-about-our-distinguished-participants/
Contact:
Cristiane Roget
Sr. Correspondent-
AdAvenueGroup.com/
SOURCE: Ad Avenue Group – Forbes France
GBK Productions Celebrity Gifting Lounge at the #NYCWFF @GBK-Productions
GBK Productions Celebrating Gifting Lounge was once again the place for celebs and media attending the New York City Wine and Food Festival (NYCWFF) to relax in-between food events, cooking demos, and panels.
During the 2 day event at The Parker Hotel in NYC, dozens of the world’s most famous chefs, celebrities, and more came together to enjoy great food, drinks, and the year’s hottest gifts & trips.
A few of the chefs who attendance included Andrew Zimmerman, Scott Conant, Adam Richman, Alex Brightman, Casey Webb, Michael Lomonaco, Richard Blais, Sarah Steffan, Scott Tacinelli, Angie Rito, Ario Cecchini, Josh Capone, Marc Forgione, and many more. The celeb cities in attendance included Whoopi Goldberg, Melissa Roxburgh & J.R Ramirez from NBC’s Manifest, Sofia Pernas, Erich Bergen from Madam Secretary, Felix Solis from Ozark, Ana Noguiera from Hightown, Lawrence Gillard Jr. from The Deuce and What Not To Wear Host Stacy London.
The travel brands in attendance gifted the celebs and selected press trips by Sailrock Resorts in Turks & Caicos, FitFarm in Tennessee, Raiwasa Private Resort in Fiji, and Palace Resorts in Cancun.
Other brands included Aragon watches, Fortune & Frame Jewelry, Warthers Cutlery, RAK Porcelain, Brachs Candy and Topo Chico Mineral Water who hand delivered cases of water for us to taste. We approve!
Us Weekly’s Most Stylish New Yorkers Event to Honor Fashion’s Fiercest During New York Fashion Week #NYFW
Fashion Week in NYC is a whirlwind of shows, parties, dinner and late night affairs. Attended by fashionistas, celebrities, influencers, models and the media.
Us Weekly held its annual Most Stylish Event for New York Fashion Week at NYC’s brand new Cathedrale at The Moxy East Village. The 15th annual Red Carpet event is a NYFW staple welcoming some of the most fashionable and famous New Yorkers.
This year’s event celebrated 15 icons in the world of Fashion. The list includes Chris Benz, DJ Pamela Tick, Micaela Erlanger, Nam Vo, Violett Beane, Jennifer Fisher, Cara Santana, Cipriana Quann, Sara Haines, La La Anthony, Army Brook Sharp, Lil’ Kim, Deborah Roberts, and Ice-Tea and Coco.
The guests at the soiree enjoyed delicacies created by the Cathedrale kitchen with specialty cocktails and interactive activations by sponsors Biore, Smirnoff and Chapstick.
Celebrities spotted on the red carpet included 13 reasons why actress Amy Hargreaves, Marc John Jeffries of Power, Michelle Collins, Rachel Lindsey of the Bachelorette, Model Ralph Souffrant, Laura Pieri, Eva Gutowski, Designer Jennifer Fisher, Stylist Micaela Erlanger, RHONJ Melissa & Joe Gorda, Margaret Josephs, Jackie Goldschneider, Danielle Staub & Haley Hasselhoff, Antoine Bethea of The New York Giants, Greg Bello, Amy Herman of Million Dollar Listing, Luann De Lesseps, Designer Ramy Brook Sharp, Model Yasmine Petty, Actress Genevieve Angelson, RHOD Cary Deuber, Kary Brittingham, D’Andra Simmons & Cameron Wescott, Mariah Lynn of Love & Hip Hop New York, Actor Andy Carl with wife Orfeh Carl, Nick Young and more…………..
Photos below by Greg Pace:
Hamptons Roundup 7/20/19 Hamptons Happening @WaxmanCancer and South Fork Natural History Museum 30th Anniversary Gala @SOFO
Last weekend a couple of our favorite events of the summer happened in the Hamptons. The 15th Annual” Hamptons Happening” honored luminaries in cuisine and raised over $440,000 to benefit The Samuel Waxman Cancer Foundation.
This year’s theme was “Tour de Cuisine”, guests enjoyed tastings from over 25 food, wine, and spirit purveyors representing some of the favorite culinary destinations around the world. There were delicacies from Columbia, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Peru, and the United States.
The band, titled Pat Farrell and The Cold Spring Harbor Band did a Billy Joel Tribute Show that rocked and had guests dancing in the big tent.
The South Fork Natural History Museum (SOFO) 30th Anniversary Gala Celebrated the Wonder of The Wild, Marking 30 Years of Nature, Education & Exploration Empowering Families to become responsible Stewards of our Planet.
The evening began with a VIP cocktail party on the lawn featuring acclaimed chefs from The Bell & Anchor, Bostwicks Clambakes & Catering, Calissa Hamptons, Canal Cafe, Centro, East Hampton Grill, Grace & Grit, Montauk Shellfish Company, Page at 63 Main, Saaz Restaurant and the Southampton Social Club.
A buffet dinner catered by Elegant Affairs followed under the tent with an honoree presentation and a live auction featuring once in a lifetime trips to Belize and Madagascar, private dinners donated by Elegant Affairs, a yacht outing provided by Charles Charters and a stay at Villa Bella Vita in Turks & Caicos, and a shark tagging expedition in Nantucket with the at-sea lab MV OCEARCH.
Rolls Royce offered test drives to all the guests of their newest and most luxurious vehicles.
King and Prince Resort, The Ultimate Getaway on St. Simons Island
The King and Prince Resort is a true gem of a vacation getaway. Located on St. Simon’s Island, a charming southern barrier island off the coast of Georgia, known for it’s beaches, rich history and numerous PGA golf courses.
A member of The Historic Hotels of America, the hotel has a storied past with many prominent guests who have called the resort home while on St. Simon’s Island. The resort has been thoughtfully updated with modern amenities while retaining it’s authentic southern charm with mediterranean architecture and southern decor throughout.
The accommodations range from resort view rooms to luxury villas suitable for large families and the most discerning travelers. The resort is also pet friendly with rooms specially allocated for our fur babies.
Amenities include multiple outdoor pools, 2 tennis courts, massage therapy, outdoor yoga and of course golf. The hotel’s restaurant ECHO offers oceanfront dining and cocktails and is the only official oceanfront dining venue on the island.
The fare at ECHO is American with a focus on seafood and the use of local ingredients. We enjoyed several meals at ECHO with breakfast being a favorite of ours. Lots of options from traditional to healthy with yummy smoothies to start off the day on the right foot.
At some point guests have to leave the resort to explore the island. Below is a list of our recommendations for where to eat, what to see and where to explore. This is only a small portion of what St. Simon’s has to offer and we look forward to returning to explore more!
- Lighthouse Trolley Tours run by Cap Fendig, a seventh generation resident of the island and a true expert on all things St. Simons. They offer trolley tours of the island, ghost tours, dolphin cruises and can be booked for private charters and special occasions.
- St. Simon’s Lighthouse Museum is a must visit to learn about the history of the lighthouse and it’s importance to St. Simon’s, then climb the stairs for amazing views of the ocean and surrounding islands.
- Gnat’s Landing offers American fare and drinks in a casual setting and is kid friendly. Try the Gnat’s famous slaw bowls! Come football season Gnat’s is the place to be.
- Georgia Sea Grill offers the freshest seafood on the island in an elegant and sophisticated setting. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
- Southern Soul BBQ is the most famous BBQ restaurant on the island having won several awards for its delicious slow- cooked meats and true southern style.
Mia Wagner Salon: Color and Style Experts in the heart of Midtown @MiaWagnerSalon
The Mia Wagner salon is located on an exclusive block at 15 west 55th street occupying the second floor of the Domenico Vacca retail store and club. Husband and Wife team Gary and Kelly Wagner, who hail from careers at Frederic Fekkai, are known for their expertise in color, balayage, and styling.
Colorist Joseph Velez did a single process on me as well as lighter hilites and balayage to freshen my look and get my hair ready for summer. He followed up with a deep conditioning treatment and a terrific blowout.
The salon is full service with hair, facial, waxing, and nail services as well as a traditional barber shop located on the other side of the salon.
Mia Wagner Salon 15 west 55th street New York, NY 10019 (212) 651-0312
Taste Of The Upper West Side 2019 @TasteUWS #TasteofTheUpperWestSide
The Taste of The Upper West Side is a 2 night affair starting with “Summer In The City” on Friday night. Several restaurants made their Taste of UWS debut with tastings from Fish on The Fly, Friedman’s Restaurant, Melba’s Restaurant, Big Gay Ice Cream, Miznon, Mokum, Mojo Desserts, Solomon & Kuff and Tacombi Upper West Side. Event favorites such as 5 Napkin Burger, Shake Shack, Bodrum, Gabriela’s Restaurant & Kitchen, Playa Betty’s, Olma Restaurant & Bar, Sarabeth’s and much more offered their popular dishes and guests were treated to signature cocktails, beers, wines, and desserts.
The main event is Saturday Night’s “Best of The West”. The event began with an hour long VIP hour for guests to sample the elevated cuisine in a quieter more exclusive environment. Some of the restaurants present were Elea, Tavern on The Green, Lincoln Center Kitchen, RedFarm, Calle Ocho, The Mermaid Inn, Shake Shack, Boulevard Seafood Company, Burke & Wills, Carmine’s, Magnolia Bakery, Orwashers Bakery, and Insomnia Cookies. There was a dedicated mixology section sponsored by Park West Village Apartments, where one of a kind craft cocktails were created by 67 Orange Street, Da Capo, Manhattan Cricket Club, Maison Pickle, Nobody Told Me Cocktail Club, Tiki Chick, and Tito’s Vodka.
Project Orange Music provided the musical entertainment and had guests dancing to their tunes, much needed to burn off all that yummy
Forlinis in Little Italy is a Historic Italian Eatery with rich history and authentic cuisine
Little Italy used to be one of our favorite parts of NYC to find classic Italian food ranging from casual to fancy. These days Chinatown has slowly taken over the neighborhood with only a sliver of eateries left. Thankfully, Forlini’s on Baxter street remains as a holdout with old school decor, vibe, and authenticity. Run by the Forlini family for over 75 years Forlini’s got a jolt in popularity thanks to a NY times article and a pre-met Gala soiree attended by A-list guests with fashionistas, models and influencer types.
These days the crowd is a mixed one with loyal customers who have been coming since the beginning, with their kids and grand kids in tow. During the day the proximity to the courthouse brings in judges, lawyers and other legal types. A demand for private parties means a young trendy crowd looking forward to seeing and documenting a piece of old New York that is fleeting.
The food is fresh and largely homemade. The pastas are made in-house as is the ricotta cheescake. We had the Forlini’s salad, which is large enough for a few people followed by a pasta combo of Gnocchi al Pesto and Panserolli Piacentina. The main course was the Stuffed Filet of Sole filled with shrimp and crab. The dessert was a creamy homemade ricotta cheesecake.
Forlini’s 93 Baxter Street New York, NY 10013 (212) 349-6779 forlinisnyc.com
Linet K. Celebrity Colorist & stylist takes NYC by storm @Balayagebylinet #balayagebylinet
Beverly Hills based celebrity hairstylist and colorist Linet K. is best known for her highly customized hair color and balayage along with cuts, extensions and styling skills. A few weeks ago she came to New York for a few days so I jumped at the opportunity to visit Linet and try her skills for myself. She updated my winter hair with lighter tones and added some natural sun kissed highlights and balayage to get my hair spring ready. Now if only the weather would cooperate!
Linet has become a favorite amongst the country’s top modeling agencies, television and film celebrities. She is versatile, talented, and also very sweet! From the very first visit clients feel comfortable and at home and know that their hair is in good hands. Her work takes her from Beverly Hills to New York, Miami, and San Francisco.
To follow Linet and see her upcoming schedule and projects visit hairbylinet.com and follow her on instagram @balayagebylinet
Zavo, A Chic Mediterranean Restaurant On The Upper East Side is more than just dinner! #ZavoNYC @ZavoNYC
There are a million eateries in NYC so when looking for a memorable evening or special occasion we look for something that stands out. Zavo on the upper east side does just that. Offering fine Mediterranean fare and cocktails with warm friendly service, Saturday night showtime with a pre-fixe dinner menu is what makes Zavo a must visit.
The rotating show schedule includes Venetian Mystery Night and 1000 Nights, however the newest show premiering January 17th, is titled “Middle East meets Venice”, a mixture of both shows. Buy tickets here: Showtime 1/17. The evening includes a three course meal see ( menu ) and the show, beverages, tips, and tax not included. The menu includes classic favorites prepared with attention and detail including Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail, Tuna Tartare, Crispy Calamari, Black Sea Bass Fillet, Filet Mignon and to top off the meal Creme Brûlée and Apple Pistachio.
The ambience is upscale with well dressed patrons looking to have a good time and celebrate. Zavo is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or a just fun night with friends. Come checkout out this new show experience on January 17th.
Zavo is located at 1011 third ave between 60th and 61st street. New York, NY (212) 753-5500 www.zavonyc.com
GBK NYC Wine & Food Festival Official Thank You Lounge #gbkproductions #gbknycwff @GBK_Productions
Photos courtesy GBK Productions
The annual NYC Wine & Food festival is the largest gathering of the nations top chefs, wine & spirits purveyors and personalities in the culinary arts. GBK productions has hosted VIP backstage lounges for major events for years including the Grammy’s, Emmy’s and New York Fashion Week and is the official backstage host here at the two day festival.
A host of brands engage with celebrities, media, and influencers gifting them an array of products ranging from countertop ovens to luxury all inclusive vacations in the caribbean. Offering a relaxing respite from two days of networking the lounge offers snacks and drinks and even a trial run in the Kahuna chair, as seen above with Neil Patrick Harris.
Brand Sponsors included: Brava, Christofle Silver, John Boos & Co, Kahuna Chair, Loacker, Pinnertest, Porto Vino, Spindrfit, Prospek Glasses, The Cup Bearer, Power Air Fryer by Tristar Products, VinGarde Valise, and Warther Cutlery.
Palace Resorts gifted a 4 day 3 night stay at the luxury all inclusive Moon Palace Jamaica in Ocho Rios or the Moon Palace in Cancun. La Corte Dell’ Astore Resort in the heart of Selva di Fasano, Italy gifted a $4500 3 night stay in a luxury suite, paragliding and sailboat experience. Anticalma in Puglia, Italy also gifted a 3 night stay with dinner,considered by many to be the finest dining experience in the area.
Fascia Yoga with Ashley Black, “The Cellulite Myth (It’s not Fat its Fascia)”.
Ashley Black is considered the pre-eminent authority on the topic of Fascia. Like beauty and wellness trends before this, ala cupping and cryotherapy, Fascia blasting is the newest trend with celebs and regular folk alike.
What is Fascia? Ashley says “Fascia is the connective tissue in our body and it’s job is to support and protect muscles and organs. When our bodies experience any kind of injury the fascia contracts and distorts to offer support which can be painful and can also cause the appearance of cellulite”.
Fascia Yoga is a different way to stretch your entire body beyond creating flexibility in the muscles and joints. This method stretches the long lines of Fascia that runs along our entire bodies. Ashley designed a line of yoga equipment and products so that individuals can practice this at home without the expense of a doctor or a physical therapist. The FasciaYoga Ball ($25) is different than a regular stability ball because the grip of the material on the person’s skin or clothing simulates the manual stretching technique of a physical therapist.
Ashley designed a line of products designed to massage the fascia to lessen the appearance of cellulite, reduce pain, improve blood flow and increase flexibility. FasciaBlaster Tools include the Fasciablaster ($89), Mini 1 & 2 ($65), Faceblaster ($65), Masterblaster ($124.99), Party Blaster ($89), Blaster Oil & After Cream ($30).
Ashley’s #1 best selling book “The Cellulite Myth, It’s not fat it’s Fascia” is available here Fasciablaster.com
To use these devices for maximum benefit warm up by :
- Do light cardio for a few minutes and take a hot shower, bath, or sauna,
- Apply blaster oil on bare clean skin.
- Choose device to use for the session and start rolling the device over the area using up and down and side to side motions
- Time to Recover: Bruises, Soreness, and Swelling are normal.
Pink Luminous Breast: The At-Home monitoring assistant that lets us see what’s going on inside. #pinkluminousbreast
About 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. Over 40,000 will die from it this year alone. With these kind of statistics plaguing women, we look for any kind of assistance in diagnosing and treating the disease early. Everyone knows that early detection is the key to survival.
A new device just hit the market called the “Pink Luminous Breast” and it bills itself as a breast health familiarity tool. An LED device that uses transillumination, a light powerful enough to penetrate the skin and tissue of the breast. Any kind of cyst or solid mass will appear darker than the rest when the light is pressed on the skin.
Company founder Marylin Dans, who had a non-cancerous breast lump at age 17 is extremely passionate about educating women of all ages, backgrounds, and financial scenarios about the importance of breast health. She emphasizes that this tool is no way a replacement for a mammogram. It is to be used in conjunction with regular doctor visits and mammograms. The goal is to make women more aware and comfortable with their own breasts.
The Pink Luminous is approved by the FDA as a class I device, meaning it is safe and doesn’t need further regulation or restrictions. It is safe to use for women with breast implants and has no side effects.
Once again this device is a practical at-home device priced at $159, comparable price to a hair removal device, that SilkPro the parent company also sells. It is meant to encourage young women, starting at age 25 to actively invest in their breast health. When it is used in conjunction with regular screenings and check ups it can be helpful to seek out medical help if something seems off.
The Sofitel Tony Awards Suite and VIP experience: Bucket list worthy for a true Tony’s fan.
The Sofitel in NYC is located in the heart of midtown only steps away from where the Tony awards are presented every June. Known as the official hotel of the Tony’s, the week leading up to the awards show, there is a whirlwind of events the hotel hosts from nominee lunches to evening cocktail parties.
For a true VIP experience the hotel offers the $100k Tony Awards package where you will feel like a celebrity in your own right. This package includes 7 nights in a gorgeously appointed suite with of course official Tony’s memorabilia, two VIP tickets to the Tony Awards at Radio City Hall, Styling by Christian Siriano, Hair & Makeup by Nomi Beauty, After Party tickets, and two tickets to any three of the nominated plays. Sofitel also donates $50,000 to the Broadway League and The American Theatre wing when this package is purchased.
The suite is tastefully decorated with loads of curated Tony’s memorabilia with most glorious being the 600 square foot terrace with a view of the Chrysler Building. The terrace is big enough to host your own Tony’s soiree. The suite is available year round for about 2K a night.
Every Tony’s aficionado must eat, so a meal or two in Sofitel’s french brasserie Gaby is a must. The french staff is very outgoing and knowledgable about the dishes served. Our favorites during the Sunday brunch were the homemade croissants and pastries, the authentic french onion soup and the classic eggs benedict. The Steak & Eggs looked delicious, a few neighboring guests were enjoying them. A full cocktail and wine list is available.
For more info on Sofitel New York (45 west 44th street New York, NY 10036) visit sofitel-new-york.com
Morimoto Sushi and Sake Sunset Sail on The America 2.0 Schooner @ClassicHarbor #ClassicHarbor
Classic Harbor Line , based out of Chelsea Piers in Manhattan, offers a multitude of cruises along New York City’s waterways on five distinctively different classic sailing yachts. There are cruises to the Statue of Liberty, sunset sails, brunch cruises as well as specialty themed cruises.
A couple of weeks ago we had the privilege of sailing on the inaugural 2018 Morimoto Sushi & Sake Sunset Sail on the America 2.0 sail boat, the top schooner in the fleet.
Iron Chef Morimoto, one of the most revered sushi chefs in the country offers guests a light dinner of 2 platings of the freshest sushi paired with 4 expertly paired sake flights. The sushi is prepared just minutes before boarding to ensure maximum freshness. We had nine pieces of sushi and a roll, all choices created by the chef himself and meant to complement the sakes offered. There is also an open bar with a choice of wines, beers, and sodas onboard.
The 2 hour sunset sail offers specatular views of the downtown Manhattan skyline and The Statue of Liberty while enjoying delicious fare on an elegant sailboat. This cruise is highly recommended for visitors and locals alike. The cruise sails every monday evening at 7 during summer months.
For more info and to book your cruise please visit: Sail-NYC.com
Amparo, The Story of Havana Club Rum @RealHavanaClub #TheAmparoExperience #forevercuban
NEW YORK, NY – APRIL 03: The guava daqueri on display at an immersive theatrical experience “Amparo” presented by HAVANA CLUB Rum on April 3, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Havana Club)
A decades long battle over ownership rights to rum brand Havana Club has been recreated in Theatrical form and titled “Amparo”. A combination of storytelling, song, dance and live music. Bacardi goes the distance to explain why they are the true owners of the brand.
An immersive and interactive experience at Bill’s Townhouse in New York City, created by liquor giant Bacardi, takes the crowd through 1950’s pre-revolutionary Cuba, telling the story of the Arechabala’s family to the United States after the communist Cuban government took control of their company.
Roberto Ramirez, marketing director at Bacardi, believes the best way to convince consumers that they are in fact the authentic Havana Club, is through characters who showcase the journey.
Bacardi purchased the original recipe for the rum from the Arechabala family in 1994, However, Pernod Ricard too sells Havana Club and claims they are in fact the authentic version as it is distilled in Cuba and owns the company’s trademark. This marketing campaign by Bacardi began in Miami, came to New York, and will continue to other cities nationwide later this year.
The evening began with a cocktail reception featuring cocktails made with dark and light rums.
We were all given different color keys and divided into groups. These keys led us to veiled spirits meant to be unveiled with shots of Havana Club rum. Every group explored a different facet of the Arechabala family’s journey and struggle in communist cuba and their eventual exile to the United States.
- Havana Club Anejo Blanco is distilled and aged for 1 year in oak barrels in Puerto Rico, blended then aged for a few more months. It is a medium bodied rum perfect for cocktail making.
- Havana Club Anejo Clásico is distilled and aged for 1 to 3 years then blended and aged some more. Can be mixed in cocktails yet smooth enough to drink neat or on the rocks.
FashionsWeek: Beauty, Fashion, Travel, Tech & Dining By Maya Litovsky 