• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Amy West Travel

Amy West's Luxury Lifestyle Publication Featuring Travel Reviews, Giveaways, Tips, Member Perks and More.

Link to my Instagram Page
Link to my Facebook Page
Link to my Twitter Page
Link to my Pinterest Page

beach

Little Red Maxi

June 1, 2017 By Amy West

Every travel wardrobe needs a dress that makes you feel like a million bucks. I’m headed to South Beach soon and when I saw this red tropical print maxi from Urban Outfitters I was smitten. The strappy open back and peek a boo detailing lend the dress plenty of attitude and the airy fabric creates a dramatic silhouette on the beach. If you are looking to show a little leg, the fly away design gives you the ability to do so at your leisure. With so much to love, you can’t deny that it’s the total package.

Red fly away tropical print maxi from Urban Outfitters
Tips and Tricks

I can be shy about adding prints to my wardrobe. They can be tricky. A good rule of thumb is to choose smaller prints, which in my opinion are more flattering.
Amy West in red maxi from Urban Outfitters
I’m going to be honest. I’ve had two kids and this dress doesn’t lend much in the way of support up top. So I utilized the help of some double sided tape just to make sure my dress stayed where it was supposed to. 
Tip: To save money, find double sided tape in strips at Sally’s Beauty Supply store under the name “Men’s Grooming Tape”. It is sold as toupee tape but it’s the exact same thing as what you purchase for double in the lingerie isle. 

Amy West in sexy red maxi
Style It
Because there is so much going on with this garment I chose to keep the styling simple. Gold offsets a tan well, so I layered on plenty of arm candy and opted for some dangly chandelier earrings for that extra bling. My classic tortoise shell sunnies and some strappy sandals finished it off for a very easy look. 
Twist strap back red maxi from Urban Outfitters
Effortless

If there is one thing I aspire to with my personal style it is that effortlessly chic look. For me that means keeping it simple, accentuating the positive, and limiting anything too fussy. I truly believe you can be fashionable and comfortable, and this dress certainly accomplishes both.

Red maxi from urban outfitters


For less than a $100 this dress demands to be in your closet. It’s also available in a green banana leaf  print which is gorgeous. 




Shop the Links




Dress – Earrings (similar) – Bracelets (similar) – Sandals (similar) 




Shop the Look 









What are your vacation essentials? I’d love to hear about your travels in the comments below. 






Until then…




Enjoy the Journey!








www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old 





Don’t forget you can shop all my looks here.


Sign up for my newsletter for more great tips, advice, and access to exclusive giveaways! 






Special thanks to:


Rio Hair Studio – For keeping my locks on trend


Sole’ Spa in Jax Beach – For keeping me bronze all summer with the best air brush tan




Red maxi from urban outfitters

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Jacksonville Top 10 | Family Travel

May 11, 2017 By Amy West

Where to stay, where to play, and what to eat when you visit Jacksonville
If your travels find you on the sunny First Coast with your family, take it from me (the expert), where you should stay, play, and eat. How am I the expert you might ask? Well, in addition to living in the region for almost 30 years, I’ve also covered the city extensively for 10Best.com as their city expert, created countless segments for local TV, ran my own TV show highlighting the region, and written many freelance articles about everything North Florida related. I’ve covered many local destinations on my blog, but this is my first time rounding up all my favorites. So take it from me, this is the list you can’t miss.

A room at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort
1. Where to Stay

Being a local, I can’t claim to have stayed at every hotel in and surrounding Jacksonville, but I have had the pleasure of a few staycations. If I haven’t stayed, I have probably toured many of the hotels you have to choose from when planning your stay. When it comes to family travel, certain luxuries can make a world of difference. The resorts who rate at the top of my list? One Ocean Resort and Spa (in Atlantic Beach), The Ritz-Carlton (Amelia Island), Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa, and Omni Amelia Island Plantation. Follow the links for more in depth reviews, or take my word for it and know that these world class destinations know what families need and how to serve them. From expansive pool decks, educational kids clubs, and Pirate tuck-ins, your stay at these resorts will be as memorable as any attraction you will visit during your trip. In fact, you may not even want to leave the grounds. But if you do, read on for where to go and what to eat.

 

Children stare at a Tiger at the Jacksonville Zoo
Image provided by The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

2. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Widely acknowledged as one of the best Zoos in the nation, the Jacksonville Zoo just keeps racking up the awards. We try to explore the local Zoo wherever we go and let me tell you, Jacksonville definitely competes! Innovative habitats, exotic gardens, and a terrific children’s play area top the reasons why you should visit. Recently, the zoo opened it’s Manatee hospital for rehabilitating those gentle sea cows the area’s local waterways are known for. Also of note is the Butterfly Garden, Sting Ray touch tank, and the ever popular Train which winds throughout the park and behind the scenes. Jax enjoys great weather almost year around, however it can get toasty in the summer. On a hot day, grab a snow cone or frolic around on the splash pad to cool off. Whatever season you visit, there is always something exciting happening at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.Tip: Outside food and drink are permitted so feel free to pack a cooler and enjoy a picnic on the grounds.

Amy West and kids at Adventure Landing
3. Adventure Landing
The beaches here are truly amazing, but if you are looking for more in the way of entertainment head over to Adventure Landing. This local amusement park has been thrilling families since I was a youngster and continues to innovate and expand. There are two locations in town, however, if your aim is to cool off your journey will bring you to the Beaches location where AL’s Shipwreck Island is housed. Relax on the Little St Johns River, slip down Xtreme water slides, rock and roll in the 50,000 gallon Wave Pool, and explore the giant ship at the center of it all. Whether you have tots or teens, the entire family is guaranteed to find something that attracts them. When you’re all dry head into the Arcade and earn those tickets, compete at Laser Tag, zoom around on Go-Karts, or practice your short game during a round of Putt-Putt. There is seriously no end to the fun that awaits. Other great area amusements include Rebounderz and Velocity Air Sports (for your inner ninja), as well as Autobahn for the family that craves a little speed. Also check out The Edge Rock Gym for more indoor entertainment.
Candy at Sweet Pete's
4. The Sweetest Destination on Earth
Sweet Pete’s and Candy Apple Cafe’ and Cocktails
 
Lovingly coined “The Sweetest Destination on Earth”, Sweet Pete’s and Candy Apple Cafe’ are truly the tastiest jewels in the heart of our fair city. What started as a mom and pop passion project, blossomed into what we know today as this sugary complex. After an appearance on the reality TV show “The Profit”, Pete and Allison Behringer transformed their historic home-based candy shop into an icon of  downtown Jacksonville that’s truly larger than life. The stately historic building they are located in is a colorful oasis bursting with whimsy and imagination. Think Willy Wonka with a luxurious upgrade. Brightly hued chandeliers drip from the ceiling and multi-colored confections line the walls. Take a tour and see where the magic happens in the Sweet Pete’s candy factory, or step up your skill set and take a candy making class. Don’t leave without booking a reservation at The Candy Apple Cafe’ and Cocktails, which true to it’s name, serves up sweet and savory concoctions for young and old alike.
Amy West and daughter in Jacksonville Beach
5. The Beaches
More and more folks are discovering the charms of Jacksonville’s Beaches every year making this a can’t miss attraction if you are in the region. Our beaches are actually several communities stretching a good 18 to 20 miles long. In the North, Atlantic Beach begins the length of coastline just south of the Mayport Naval station. The casually upscale residential community of Atlantic Beach sits right next to Neptune Beach but don’t make the mistake of getting them confused. They each have their own residential identity although they share the quaint Beaches Town Center where you’ll find the best food, and shopping at the beach. South of Neptune is Jacksonville Beach which is more popular with the college crowd and youth and a central hub of the beaches community. You’ll find the lion’s share of the beaches bars and breweries are located here, along with the fishing Pier, and the Beaches Pavilion where most Beach festivals in our region are headquartered. Last but not least is Ponte Vedra Beach, the most exclusive of our beaches. Unless you are staying at a resort or club, it’s a little harder to access this mostly residential stretch of beach, but if you do, you’ll find it quiet and less populated.
Shrimp Boat in Fernandina
6.  Fav Day Trips
There is plenty to keep you busy in the largest city by land mass in the the States. However, if you are up for exploring we are centrally located to some charming historic treasures. The Nations oldest city, St Augustine, is located just South of Jacksonville. Take A1A down for a scenic 40 minute drive along the coastline. While visiting the ancient city be sure to explore the Castillo de San Marcos Fort. For a taste of the city make time to take a free tour of the St Augustine Distillery, and reserve a table at the local favorite Ice Plant Bar. Don’t forget to visit the Lighthouse for some ghostly stories and an epic view of the shore. Or see it all by air and book a helicopter tour along the coastline. Another favorite of mine is just a short ferry ride away from the beaches. Visit the barrier islands just North of Jacksonville and experience pristine nature preserves on the Big and Small Talbot Islands, as well as the historic village of Fernandina on Amelia Island. Take a cruise and learn more about the rich history of the region, try the best Shrimp and Grits you’ll ever have the pleasure of tasting, and visit the shops that stretch along a town center seemingly frozen in time.

Amy West and husband in Guana park
7. Get Outdoors
Favorite Hiking and Biking Spots

One of our favorite family activities when we travel is to get outdoors and embrace the green spaces in the surrounding area. Jacksonville is home to so many great nature preserves and parks. In fact the Timucuan Nature Preserve stretches for 46,000 acres and houses plenty to do in the way of hiking, biking, kayaking and more. If you love riding bikes definitely visit the Talbot Islands as mentioned above (which have miles of scenic trail space and are a part of the Timucuan Nature Preserve), as well as our very own Baldwin Rail Trail. Hanna Park is also a must visit for hiking or birding along with Guana Park further South, and Jacksonville’s beautiful Arboretum which is centered around a serene lake.
Riverside Arts Market
Photo provided by Riverside Arts Market
8. Riverside Arts Market
watch more here
The Riverside Arts Market is a local treasure and one of the best places to score regionally made crafts, produce, and street fare. Families of all ages enjoy year around shade in it’s location under the Fuller Warren Bridge on the banks of the St Johns River. My little ones love getting their faces painted and watching the balloon artist twist and tie up colorful creations. A trip to RAM is never complete for us without purchasing a giant bag of Kettle Corn from our favorite vendor as well as ordering a wood fired pizza and enjoying it while taking in some live music. The market is extremely pet friendly and owners proudly parade their furry family members up and down the aisles. If you really want to understand what Jacksonville is all about, then add the Riverside Arts Market to your list of must-do activities.
Tip – RAM is located right next door to the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Receive free admission the first weekend of the month and enjoy browsing their large permanent collection, new exhibits, and the iconic gardens.

 

The St Johns Town Center
9. Go Shopping – St Johns Town Center
One of the top reasons folks are flooding to the River City by the Sea is our terrific shopping options. The largest and most notable shopping destination in town is the St Johns Town Center. A sprawling outdoor mall that continues to expand yearly. Here in the center of town, you will find a huge selection of retailers from Target to Tiffany’s. If you are hungry, you’ll discover tons of foodie destinations both local and franchise, from fast casual to fine dining. If the kids need to burn off some energy head to the shaded play area in front of Dick’s Sporting Goods. Barnes and Noble is always a great spot to stop in and listen to story time, or if you are near Nordstrom, head upstairs and let the tots explore the playhouse while you find your next designer duds.
Enjoy a burger at MShack, a local favorite
10. Best Family Friendly Restaurants

As a visitor to the region, your tastebuds might be on the hunt for some authentic Southern vittles. Jacksonville has much to offer seekers of culinary excellence and you’ll discover not only down home Southern goodness, but amazing Seafood, and delicious locally sourced harvest with a distinctive regional flare. A few of my family favorites include The Bearded Pig BBQ (which houses a delightful Beer Garden complete with misters for those hot days), Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails (conveniently located in the St Johns Town Center), and M Shack (our favorite locally owned burger joint). For a more extensive list, head over to my “Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Jacksonville” list.

 

Still haven’t found what you are looking for? Feel free to voice your questions in the comments below or shoot me an email at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/oldUntil then…

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old 

More resources:
Wander Jacksonville – The official Visitors Information Channel of Jax
10best.com – Jacksonville City Guide Curated by Me
Visit Jacksonville
Jacksonville Moms Blog

Little girl having fun on vacation

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Cold Shoulders and Casual Stripes

February 24, 2017 By Amy West

This off the shoulder Topshop Bardot top I found at Nordstrom for under $40 has been a huge hit on my instagram feed this week. I’ve been previewing my outfit posts on my instagram so make sure you follow my feed under @AmyWestTravel and don’t miss out. These looks are selling out quick. I love this ensemble for so many reasons. Stripes continue to be a major trend this season, and lets face it, they never go out of style. Pair that will the ever popular cold shoulder, feminine ribbon detail, and a timeless distressed denim. The result is an effortlessly chic combination. 

Amy West and daughter pose on the beach
It should be noted that my little fashionista, Sienna, dug into her own closet and styled a look that complimented mine perfectly. Her jeggings, and asymmetrical black top were perfect with my crystal bauble necklace she borrowed. She even added a few clip in hair extensions in red to give it a little rock n roll. Great job kiddo! For the most part I let this girl create her own style. Honestly we do a lot of hand-me-downs and she does a terrific job making them look brand new with her unique eye for styling. 
Amy West in Topshop Bardot top from Nordstrom

Amy West and daughter in classic fashion
February was Sienna’s and my birthday month and we had a great time getting pampered like the princesses we are. Sienna opted out of a huge party this year and instead chose one friend for a day of pedicures and pizza making. How is she so grown up already??! 
Amy West in striped top from Nordstrom

Amy West in off the shoulder top from Nordstrom

We shot this look right before a thunderstorm and grabbed some shelter under the Jacksonville Beach Pier. Fun fact! David proposed to me under this pier 13 years ago. How time flies….
Amy West playing with her daughter on the beach

Amy West and daughter relax on the beach
Birthdays always get me nostalgic. I feel wiser yes, but also alive! And grateful for it. I try to purpose this time of year as a chance to be mindful about caring for myself. Setting my goals and priorities but also to check in and see how I’m feeling. I like to focus on wellness, get a massage, work out and just generally spend time with the ones I love and remember how precious this life is. We all have so much on our plates, you really do have to take a moment to sit still, breath in the fragrance of life and remind yourself how beautiful it really can be. 
Amy West and daughter Sienna walk on the beach
We are so blessed to call the beaches our home. It’s a place where life moves at a more relaxed pace, and the culture accepts a laid back philosophy when it comes to lifestyle. 

When was the last time you set a side a moment to breathe in the beauty around you? There is no better time than today!

Shop the Links
Bardot Top – Distressed Jeans (similar) – Sunglasses (similar)

Fitting note: This top runs small. I ordered a size up and it fit perfect.

Shop the Post 

Until then…
Enjoy the Journey!
xo- Amy West
www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old 

Amy West in classic stripes

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

How to Style Ballet Inspired Outfits

January 20, 2017 By Amy West

Soft pastels are hotter than ever, most notably in shades of pink. Blushing hues have never been more popular and honestly, I’m absolutely loving all the creative styles showing up. Designers are showcasing everything from structured outerwear to soft and romantic layers. I’ve always admired ballet style, and love that now we can integrate it into our every day looks. The girls and I put together some soft ballet inspired ensembles to try out the new trend. With active wear and athleisure becoming more and more popular, you are going to see more hybrid looks like these popping up around you.

Amy West and daughters in ballet inspired fashion
Sienna is wearing a faux leather skirt from Forever 21

Muted Tones and Playful Prints

This season look for neutral tones and muted color palettes to continue in popularity. Think bone, cream, and soft shades of white when pulling together your picks for the season. 

Amy West and daughters pose for a selfie
Capturing a selfie in my Tutu skirt from Target

Toddler poses on the beach
London shows off her Llama t-shirt from Target 

Amy West and daughter snuggle on the beach

Texture Play

Don’t be afraid to play with texture, contrasting soft layers with edgier elements. Here we paired the softer textures of tulle and cotton with patent and metal. On Sienna we paired faux leather with tulle, cotton, and a gold metal headband. We also choose to contrast colors bringing in the accent color of black to the softer color story happening here. 
Amy West and daughters play on the beach

Amy West and daughters in Jacksonville Beach

Unusual Combinations

Unusual combinations have become more and more common place in the fashion world. Rules have been thrown out the window and individual style reigns. Don’t be afraid to be you, and let your creativity shine. This metallic “Out of Your League” statement necklace from 7 Charming Sisters was just the thing to top off my look, giving it an edge and just the right amount of bling. 
Amy West in a ballet inspired ensemble
Showing off my “Out of Your League” statement necklace from 7 Charming Sisters

Amy West and daughter play on the beach in ballet inspired fashion

Amy West and daughter walk on the beach

Shop the Links:
Tulle Skirt –White Body Suit –Denim Jacket (similar)–Patent Belt (similar)–Wrap Leggings–Statement Necklace–Kids Faux Leather Skirt–Kids Cat Print Shirt–Kids Cat Ear Headband–Toddler Llama Shirt
Toddler Leggings

How are you wearing blush tones this season? I’d love to hear your style secrets in the comments below. Any trends you’d like to see us showcase on amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old? Give me a shout out so I can continue to produce content that inspires and entertain.

Until then…

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West Travel

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old

Shop the post here

Like this post? Pin it! My blog thrives on the your shares. Thank you for your support.

Ballet Inspired Outfit Post

*Although I did receive my necklace from 7 Charming Sisters as a gift, the words appearing in this blog are my own.
Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Boho Beach Days | Featuring Anthropologie

August 26, 2016 By Amy West

A boho beach ensemble from Anthropologie
Summer is creeping to an end, but if you’re a Floridian like me, you may be looking forward to several more months of sunshine and sand. I have a closet full of go to cover ups and sundresses, but when I saw these flowy beach pants I knew they had my name written all over them for my next outfit post. 

Amy West and children relax at the beach

Most folks flock to the beach on the weekend, but when you live at the beach, it’s all about those week day nights. With half the usual tourists lining the shore, there is plenty of room to spread out and run free. Our kids love playing in the tide pools and bringing out the hoola hoop to practice new tricks. 

Children play at the beach

mother and child at the beach
These beach pants from Anthropologie live up to their name. Extremely light weight and cool, they also dry very quickly after getting wet. I love the tiny pom pom fringe, so on trend this season. The t-shirt is from Anthropologie as well and is amazingly comfortable. I love the detailing along the neckline and the pin tucking in the back. 

 baby in a tide pool in Florida

sisters play at the beach

sisters play in the water at the beach

Amy West and daughter at the beach
The scarf was a great accessory, and a handy cover up for the little on after we shed those sandy clothes. Sometimes you plan to go swimming, other times you plan to go for a walk. Who are we kidding though? Children will always end up wet and sandy at the beach. 
Baby looking at the ocean

Beach Pants – Red T-Shirt – Sunglasses – Boho Necklace – Scarf/Sarong – Girls Swim Suit (Similar) – Earrings (Similar)  – Bracelet (Similar) – Lip Color 

What’s your go to beach ensemble? Love hearing your style tips in the comments below.

Until then…

Enjoy the journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old 

Special thanks to Tara Clemons for taking the photos
and
Rio Hair Studio for keeping my locks on point

Shop the Look

Amy West and kids at the beach

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Obsessions of the Day

    Powered by Juicer