wellness

The Best Salads in Jacksonville

April 7, 2017 By Amy West

The humble Salad. Perhaps one of the most underestimated menu items. So often considered an afterthought, an appetizer, or at best an add on. For me and many others though, salads are so much more. Whether you are a craving your veggies, hitting the gym a little harder, or just interested in testing out the creativity of your favorite dining destination, a salad can represent way more than a bed of greens. For the last few years I’ve been compiling some of my favorite “Destination Salads” on the First Coast. These salads so inspiring, they are worth going out of your way for over and over again. Let’s just say, they are making salads sexy again.

Spinach and Quinoa Salad from Eleven South Bistro and Bar

Eleven South Bistro and Bar

Spinach and Quinoa Salad

Jacksonville Beach – my full review here

Eleven South Bistro and Bar is no stranger to awards. For over a decade it has received countless accolades for it’s upscale menu, intimate setting, and impressive wine list. Not to be upstaged by the rest of the menu, salads take a much appreciated featured role in this highly lauded foodie destination. This new Spinach and Quinoa Salad certainly has star power and bursts with well balanced flavor. Pay close attention to the Banyuls Vinaigrette, this one can’t be missed. Quinoa has been a bit of a buzz word for the last few years, but it truly is a great source of protein. I love this tasty combo pulling together layers of flavor. Eleven South’s menu does change seasonally, so if this salad goes missing, you can look for other great seasonal items. The lunch menu boasts a Salad du Jour and you really can’t go wrong with any of their selections.

Superfood Salad from American Gator Club

American Gator Club
Superfood Salad
Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa , Ponte Vedra Beach – my full review here

The American Gator Club is one of my favorite “Best Kept Secrets” in the region due to it’s somewhat humble location tucked inside the Sawgrass Marriott Resort. Head out to the pool deck and find yourself inhaling the delicious aromas of tasty handhelds, and Southern inspired tapas. You’ll also find this colorful Superfood Salad brimming with all the good stuff. Almonds, blueberries, local cauliflower and more antioxidant and protein rich ingredients put this salad at the top of my crave worthy list.

The 3 Palms Grille Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad 3 Palms Grille

3 Palms Grille
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Ponte Vedra Beach – my full review here

I have to confess. As sophisticated as my palate has become, I still don’t love beets. That is to say, I still don’t love beets when they aren’t done well. If those little jewels are straight off the farm and prepared with simplicity and finesse, then I’m all for them. This Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese salad is a beautiful example of how fresh and robust “beets done right” can be. The candied pistachios bring balance the denseness of the beets with a sweet crunch. The Bibb lettuce is a refreshingly light choice against heavier greens like Kale. Top it off with creamy goat cheese, orange supremes, and a citrus poppy vinaigrette and you have one satisfying dish.

Burrata Caprese from Coast

Coast
Burrata Caprese with Shrimp
Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island – my full review here

Oh Burrata, that creamy, elegant delight brought to you by mozzarella. Since my first experience with Burrata, I’ve been utterly smitten. Coast, one of the new destinations created by the brilliant culinary minds at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, brings a classic combination to life with it’s Burrata Caprese. A mediterranean staple including garden fresh tomatoes, crispy prosciutto, and shallots. For a little more protein top it off with wild caught shrimp, fresh from the Atlantic Coast. It doesn’t get much better than that folks.

Super Kale Salad from M Shack

M Shack
Super Kale Salad
Multiple Locations – Also included in my “Best Family Friendly Restaurants” blog

M Shack burgers have developed their own cult following around these parts. Freshly ground hormone free black angus beef prepared from scratch in house keep fans coming back again and again, but did you know the Super Kale Salad has just as popular a following as it’s more meaty menu companions? That’s right, this family friendly destination pleases all tastebuds with it’s versatile menu catering to meat eaters, vegetarians, vegans, and those requiring a gluten free diet as well.

Kale Salad from Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails

Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails
Kale Salad
The Markets of St Johns Town Center – Jacksonville – my full review here

As striking on a plate as it is flavorful, Moxie’s Kale salad brings together beets (done right), and fresh massaged kale. Some varieties of Kale (in my opinion) can have a tendency to get a little stiff and crunchy. That’s why it’s important to give the leaves a little extra love. No doubt about it, this tender, melt in our mouth kale will leave an impression, and you’ll be back for more before you know it.

Grilled Romaine Ceasar from Ovinte

Ovinte
Grilled Romaine Ceaser
St Johns Town Center- Jacksonville – my full review here

Who says salads should always be served cold? I remember my first experience with grilled greens, and it was a game changer for sure! This Grilled Romaine Ceasar is incredible. Pair smokey grilled romaine, with freshly grated buttery parmesan, and the tart acidity from the tomatoes and your tastebuds are going to thank you. So much goodness happening on this plate. Served hot or cold, a grilled salad is a treat for the senses.

Market Greens Salad from 619 Ocean View

619 Ocean View
Market Greens Salad
Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa – Ponte Vedra Beach

Anytime someone serves me an unseasoned salad, I cry a little inside. Prepared correctly, many salads don’t even need a dressing. This Market Greens Salad from 619 Ocean View is a fine example of such a dish. The freshest greens, made from scratch croutons, light seasoning, and a soft boiled egg come together in an unexpected show stopper. Our recent visit definitely left us wanting more of this destination salad.

Roasted Beet Salad from Flying Iguana

Flying Iguana Taqueria & Tequila Bar
Roasted Beet Salad
Neptune Beach – my full review here

Earthy beets, fresh mint, bitter arugul, and tart pickled mango combine in this fresh remix of the colorful beet salad at Flying Iguana in Neptune Beach. Of course there are plenty of reasons to find yourself dining at the Flying Iguana. Perhaps more well known for their large Tequila selection, or their flavorful handhelds. You can be sure the culinary staff doesn’t hold back when it comes to your greens. If you dig a little deeper you’ll discover that Flying Iguana has cultivated it’s own rooftop garden brimming with fresh ingredients that make their appearance in seasonal specials, veggie staples, and hand crafted cocktails. Explore for yourself. I promise you wont be disappointed.

Image Provided by Burrito Gallery – BG Shrimp Chopped Salad from Burrito Gallery

Burrito Gallery
BG Shrimp Chopped Salad
multiple locations – Also included in my “Best Family Friendly Restaurants” blog

Not only for Burrito lovers, this Jacksonville favorite has recently expanded to include multiple locations. I had yet to venture to this popular dining spot until it was mentioned to me that they have some killer salads. Boy was I excited when those promises proved true. To be honest I have yet to try a Burrito at the Burrito Gallery. Everything is just so darn good. Order any salad and you’ll be pleased but if you have a hankering for shrimp, you certainly can’t go wrong with this BG Shrimp Chopped Salad. Our family go-to? A steak and chicken quesadilla, and a Cobb salad split. With generous portions and a can’t-miss trio of guac, queso, and salsa you will definitely be full. Did I mention the generous house margaritas? Done and done!

Where are your favorite foodie destinations? Know a place with stand out salads, desserts, tapas and more? I want to hear about them in the comments below. You never know who will make my next round up!

Until then…

Enjoy the Journey!

xo – Amy West

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old

Another Salad du Jour from Eleven South topped in Atlantic Salmon

The Best Digital Work Outs | At Home and Beyond

October 19, 2016 By Amy West

My favorite work outs at home and beyond

I haven’t written a good work out post since my 30 Day Challenge, Juice Cleanse, and Fitness Trends series. After covering “How I lost the Baby Weight“, I thought it was time to share again what I’m working out to lately. For me, being active has to be fun. I know what my body likes, and I know that I mentally need to work out as an outlet for stress. Over the last year I’ve had to get creative with my fitness since my little wasn’t old enough to go into child care at the gym. Here is the result of my search for best online work outs, and what I’m doing lately.

1. Beach Body on Demand

First of all I just want to point out that I am not a beach body coach and am in no way affiliated with them or compensated for recommending them. After having London I was looking for good at home work outs to do especially when it came to using free weights. I had heard that the 21 Day Fix was awesome and I figured 21 days sounded pretty reasonable. I also liked that I could stream the work outs. This was important because we don’t even have a DVD player anymore (Yes we are that Millennial). The package I signed up for came with a coach who involved me in a facebook group challenge which lasted about a month. I liked that there was community and I wasn’t just doing home work outs on my own. This especially came in handy with eating clean and making sure I was fueling my body enough (sometimes momma is the last to eat). During my challenge I got to know Beach Body’s new On Demand website more and really enjoyed the Challenge Du Jour which is a curated weekly mix of different work outs from Beach Body’s long list of work out programs (you know, the ones you see on all the infomercials). I was surprised to discover that a lot of the instructors are really funny (see Tony Horton, and Shaun T), which helped me get through feeling kind of ridiculous at home. All in all this site is very motivating and helpful and you can get your first 30 days free as well as stream it on your phone through their app, which is perfect for travel!

2. Yoga with Adriene

I found Adriene when I was stuck at home for my work outs when London was too little for the child care at my local gym. I love her yoga videos because she is not only extremely friendly and relatable, she is also very knowledgable. Adriene’s down to earth delivery, disarming charm, and “do what feels good” methods made yoga my favorite work out. As my body was recovering from a c-section and my core was in need of a lot of therapy, yoga was a gentle way for me to ease back into my fitness routine. I started with her 30 Day Yoga Challenge and loved that she began gently and added more challenges throughout the 30 days. Most of the videos were around 20 to 30 minutes but some were as brief as 12 minutes, yet you still felt like you did your body good that day. I highly recommend Yoga with Adriene for both beginning and advanced yoga practice, she has a great variety to choose from. Doing Yoga with Adriene is kind of like doing yoga with your best girlfriend.

3. Fitness Marshall

I discovered Caleb Marshall when this video of Meghan Trainor’s song “Me Too” went viral featuring Caleb and his crew dancing it out. He just seemed to be having so much fun and I was missing my fav zumba class at the gym, so I gave it a try. So so addictive. I had tried other zumba you tube channels but they just didn’t measure up. I love the trendy latest hits music he chooses, and his choreography is easy to follow but challenging enough to still be interesting. I like that he gives great guidance but doesn’t repeat the moves over and over in the slow learning process a lot of dance videos do. I just want to dig in and do the song, not practice the same eight steps over and over. Caleb does a great job rotating a diverse group of dancers including all ages, shapes, sizes and genders so literally anyone can relate and feel comfortable dancing it off at home.

4. Keaira LaShae

I randomly happpened upon Keaira while scrolling through my other youtube favs. I was interested in her dance work outs and instantly fell in love with her passion and enthusiasm. She does a great job mixing up the type of music she uses and does a lot of isolating movements to work the abs and glutes. She’s also a mom so I could relate with what she had to say about getting back in shape and this really encouraged me. She has work outs for all levels so you don’t have to feel intimidated getting started, but know that as you learn you can also challenge yourself more. Last but not least, Keaira makes working out fun, and for me that is a priority. I want to be smiling when I’m working out, not miserable and grumpy.

5. BeFit

BeFit is another great free resource. Featuring a diverse range of work outs with celebrity trainers. You can do 10 minute abs, dance it off with the above mentioned Keaira LaShae, or experiment with partner yoga plus lots more. I found this channel to be similar to Beach Body with the bonus of being 100% free.

Shop the Link

Work Out Tank – Cropped Leggings – Tennis Shoes

What work outs are you into lately? I’m always on the look out for something fun, and challenging. Fill me in below in the comments.

Until then…

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old

Watch me discuss this topic on The Chat

10 Easy Ways to Lose Weight on Vacation

May 25, 2016 By Amy West

We’ve all been there. You save up, you take that trip you’ve been anticipating, and you eat your heart out. Sure the pleasure is undeniable, but so are those extra pounds you put on in the process. You can’t fit in those shorts or that cute bikini, and more than that… you just kinda feel crappy. It’s true that 80% of how we look and feel can be traced back to what we put in our mouth. I know I know, “How can this be Amy? Aren’t you always bragging about the amazing fattening food you eat?” Well yes, and no. I love great food. I’m a proud foodie. However, most people probably don’t realize that the majority of the time when we are at home, our meal time is very humble. I’ve been pretty honest about my childhood struggle with obesity. Over the years I’ve had to fight the urge to fall into the eating disorder trap. Instead of sinking into that pit of despair, I’ve found my own methods of living a life of balance, while also enjoying what I want. Here are some examples of how I lost weight going on great vacations to places like Jamaica, Rome, Colorado, and even a Cruise!

Let me begin by saying I’m not a nutritionist. Every body is different. Having said that, I hope you find these tips useful on your next trip. It starts by changing your perspective of food.

1. Rule of Thirds

Limit your indulgences to one meal a day (or 1/3), the rest of the day keep it healthy focusing on good choices. Many times, starting your day with good choices will keep you on that path. Sometimes I’ll even replace one meal a day with a protein bar or smoothie which helps me know I’ve fueled my body with great nutrition for the day.

2. Make it an Adventure

Choose an experience that will get you active and keep you more connected to your mind and body. In 2012 we journeyed to Colorado and climbed the 14,000 ft mountain Pikes Peak. To make it even more challenging (while saving money) we didn’t rent a car. Instead we rented mountain bikes to get around the little town of Colorado Springs. It was pretty freaking hard, but it was also incredibly fulfilling and to this day I think back on that experience with great pride.

3. Split Meals

Not only does splitting meals save money, it also helps with portion control. I found it especially helpful in Italy when my friend and I split some of the richer dishes you don’t want to miss like pasta, gelato, and yummy street fare.

4.Take the Stairs

When most folks think of cruise ships, they think of all you can eat buffets, and ordering every dish on the menu at dinner service. However, if you change your perspective a little, you can actually lose weight on a cruise. When we cruise we avoid the elevators at all costs (which are usually pretty crowded anyways) and instead take the long way up and down the stairs. We enjoy long walks on deck at sunset, and keep our food orders realistic. Because of this we were able to shed a few pounds on our cruise back in 2007.

5. Don’t Worship at the Alter of Food

I’m first to admit that I love great food. The culinary experience is one full of enjoyment for the senses. However, you can embrace great food without it consuming your life. When you travel you should enjoy the food experience, but if you are aiming to lose weight don’t make it the reason for the trip. Make taste the accessory of the trip, not the reason to travel. Find your great travel moments while experiencing new things, go bungee jumping, discover new art, but don’t put food first place on your priority list.

6. Earn It

I find when I purpose in my heart to “earn” that indulgence, it makes it that much more worthwhile. I savor each flavor more, and enjoy the effort I put into making room for it in my day. I know I made good choices for my body that day, and I’m more likely to keep my indulgence in line with my health goals. Having the “earn it” mindset might just give you extra motivation to hit the fitness center. Either way, getting active, even if it’s just walking helps you make better decisions when it comes to what you put in your body.

7. Walk it Off

I’ve found that when I have traveled to destinations that require a lot of walking (and in which I choose to do the walking instead of opting for public transport) I shed a few pounds in the process. Places like Savannah, NYC, Rome, and other big cities with activities spread around in walking distance are great choices, even Disney can be a great choice if you can avoid too much junk food.

8. Get Sporty Chic

When you are purchasing your vacay wardrobe, include some cute active wear you want to take advantage of. I find that starting my day out in fitness wear makes me more inclined to get active.

9. Accountability

On your next trip grab a workout buddy to get active with or an accountability partner who will help you stay motivated. Need a friend? There are tons of apps online with great ways of getting you connected with people who have the same goals as you. Even posting your goals on instagram, facebook, or twitter can be helpful with keeping your goals a priority.

10. Options are Everything

Compare options when ordering off the menu. Make good choices i.e. glass of white wine vs pina colada or grilled fish vs the foie gras. You can still dine very well and enjoy your food while avoiding over indulgent meals that will likely just make you feel miserable after you dine. Choose food that will energize you and help you feel your best during your travels.

These are just a few of the little tricks I use to keep my goals in line.

What are your favorite tips for staying fit on the go? I’d love to hear your travel tips and hacks. Drop me a line in the comments below!

Until then…

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old

Watch me discuss these tips with the ladies of The Chat

Splurge vs Steals: Romantic Getaway Edition

February 10, 2016 By Amy West

Looking for a romantic getaway that will make a statement? I have just the destinations to sweep that special someone off their feet. Check out my Splurges Vs Steals: Romantic Getaway Edition.

Steal:Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa

Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

Rates from $199* per night

The Sawgrass Romance Experience
as seen on my blog here

Package includes:

• Luxury accommodations

• Breakfast for two at Vernon’s

• Champagne and strawberries upon arrival

*Price does not include tax

Splurge: The Lodge at Sea Island-GA

$965 per night

Romance Package

Treat your sweetheart to an extra special Sea Island romantic getaway.

Available for a two-night minimum stay at The Lodge

Includes:

· Luxury accommodations at The Lodge

· Complimentary suite upgrade upon arrival if available

· Bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival

· Room service breakfast daily

· One $100 dinner credit per person towards the Sea Island venue of choice

· One 90-minute Couples Massage for two in the Together Suite at The Spa at Sea Island

· One rose petal turndown on the evening of your choice

Georgia’s Lodge at Sea Island took the top spot among US hotels in US News & World Report’s 2016 rankings!

Call 1-855-572-4975 to book this package.

*Rate is based on single or double occupancy per night, for two nights; $38 nightly resort fee and tax are additional. Based on availability; some conditions may apply. Cannot be combined with other packages or offers. Offer is good on new reservations only and does not apply to group bookings. Breakfast not to exceed $35 per person. Additional charges are guests’ responsibility.

Steal: Horse Stamp Inn-Waverly, GA

Package Price: $299*
Romantic Getaway Package

as seen on my blog here

Package includes:

One night stay for two in Sugarfoot
An evening appetizer that includes assorted cheeses and crackers
A bottle of Champagne to split in chilled glasses
Chocolate truffles from Del Sur Bakery
Roses in your room from St Simons Island
Wake up to mimosas served to your room or outdoor on the one of the patios.
A gourmet breakfast of French Toast, warm peaches, local sausage and fresh coffee.

*Price does not include tax

Splurge: Sea Ranch Lodge-Sonoma, CA

Package Price: $1,550*

Luxury in Love
as seen on my blog here

If you are looking for a getaway where you can truly escape from the hustle and noise of the city; where your focus is on your significant other and not at a computer screen, we welcome you to Sea Ranch Lodge. Nestled along the bluffs of the northern Sonoma Coast, our resort provides the intimate setting for a couple’s total relaxation. Our Luxury in Love package is just what you both need to rekindle the romance and tantalize the senses.

This offer includes the following:

Find your romantic hideaway in our Pacific Spa Patio Room, which features a cozy fireplace, King-size bed, and – best of all – an outdoor hot tub! Push back the sliding barn window to frame your own private view of the Pacific Coast and wildflower meadows. Tucked away at the end of the Lodge, your two-night stay here will be a retreat you won’t soon forget.

Toast to your love with a bottle of sparkling wine and savor chocolate-covered strawberries, which will be in your room upon arrival.

Dinner for two in the award-winning Black Point Grill, complete with a bottle of a featured local wine

Hour-long massages for the couple in our side-by-side spa rooms

Full made-to-order breakfast

Private two-hour guided walking tour of the coastal areas in the vicinity of Sea Ranch Lodge by Margaret of Unbeaten Path Tours. This is a remarkable way to reconnect with your natural surroundings, smell the salty air, bask in the ocean climate, and delight in the flora and fauna along the hike.

Sip the juice of extraordinary grapes at the nearby Fort Ross Winery. Take a tour of the Fort Ross vineyards and visit the tasting room, with a complimentary wine tasting included. We are sure you won’t be able to pass up taking back a bottle or two!

For your second night, we will save two seats for you to have dinner in the Black Point Grill, or if you want something completely private, order a special room service dinner from an exclusive menu created just for your enjoyment.

We will be sad to see you go, but as a farewell, please join us for a full made-to-order breakfast in the Black Point Grill and take in another view of the Pacific Ocean…perhaps you will even stop by the Front Desk before you depart and schedule your next visit to Sea Ranch Lodge!

* Price does not include tax

Steal: Bay Harbor Hotel-Tampa, FLA

Starting at $299 per night*

Cupid’s Getaway

Spacious Accommodations
Champagne and Berries upon arrival
Dinner for Two Valentines Day
Extended Check-out

*price does not include tax

Splurge: Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina-BVI

Package price: $19,500

Luxe in Love Package

as seen on my blog here

Four-night accommodations in a private, two-bedroom hillside villa with breathtaking Caribbean views
Helicopter transfer from Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS)
Bottle of Dom Pérignon Rosé Champagne and Beluga Caviar upon arrival
Romantic five-course Valentine’s Day dinner for two in a private cabana on the Grand Pavilion overlooking the pool and marina, with wine pairings, a dozen roses and champagne with dessert
Dinner for two in guest’s villa, prepared and served by a private chef showcasing regional specialties; includes bottle of Remy Martin XO cognac for a nightcap by the private plunge pool
Private helicopter tour of the BVI for two, including a picnic on a secluded BVI beach
Dolphin swim experience for two
Couples half-day retreat at Ixora Spa
Private island-hopping charter for two, including stops at Virgin Gorda, The Baths, Soggy Dollar Bar, Foxy’s Tamarind Bar and Willie T’s
Daily breakfast for two
Set of etched commemorative champagne flutes
Private butler service daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Mixologist class with Xtian MacDonald
Private cooking class at Wali Nikiti culinary retreat

To book the Luxe in Love package, please contact Scrub Island Reservations at (877) 890-7444.

Steal: Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa – Gateway, Colorado

Package Starts at: $463/night
Winter Wellness Weekend

A world-class destination in the heart of the American West, Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa invites guests to indulge in its Winter Wellness Weekend on February 12-15, 2016, a mid-winter, wellness-themed weekend designed to help guests escape the snow, recharge their body and spirit for Spring, and even sprinkle in a little romance for Valentine’s Day.

Package includes:

• 40% discount on rooms

• 30% discount on activities (excludes Driven Experiences and Air Tours)

• 20% discount on Spa

• Complimentary speakers and classes Saturday, Sunday, and Monday

• Complimentary Yoga classes

• Access to the latest in Organic Spa products

• Complimentary Runner’s Clinic

• Special Valentine’s Day menu offered in Entrada Restaurant

Cradled in the shadow of the Palisade rock formation and fringing the Moab Desert, Discovery Channel founder John Hendricks unveils Gateway Canyons, the world’s first and only discovery resort, created to nourish guests’ curiosity through intellectual stimulation and adventure within a naturally intriguing environment. Recently ranked as one of the Top Resorts in Colorado and a Top Resort in the World by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards, Gateway Canyons caters to the most discerning traveler with savory dining options at Entrada Restaurant and Paradox Grille, wellness-focused treatments at The Spa, private tours aboard a luxury helicopter, privileged access to more than 100 years of automotive history at the Gateway Auto Museum and a variety of self-selected experiential activities offered through the on-site Adventure Center and Driven Experiences program.

Splurge: Deep Water Cay- Bahamas
Package Price: $10,752
The Lovers Package

Private Ocean Front Home
All Meals Including Gourmet Dinner On Valentines Day
Complimentary Champagne and Locally Sourced Flowers
Exclusive Use of Private Guide and Boat Each Day for Three Days
An excursion to a Secluded Beach
Private Beach and Much More

*Now available for travel from Thursday, February 11 through Thursday, February 18, 2016. Based on double occupancy. Package is subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Advanced reservations are required. Package rate is exclusive of taxes, resort service fee, boat guide gratuities additional alcoholic beverages or transportation.

Contact Deep Water Cay to book at (888) 420-6202

Steal: The Commons Hotel – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Package Begins at: $259/night
Be Mine Package

The Commons Hotel invites sweethearts to play up the romance this Valentine’s Day with the “Be Mine” package, available February 12-14, 2016.

Package includes:

• Deluxe King Room for one night

• Romantic dinner for two in The Beacon Public House

• Champagne in room upon arrival

• Continental breakfast for two in guest room

• One Pay-Per-View in-room movie

• Valet parking

• VIP turndown service with sweet treat and romantic quote

Conveniently located close to downtown Minneapolis on the University of Minnesota campus, The Commons Hotel — part of the Noble House Hotels & Resorts collection — incorporates a theme of contrasts inspired by its collegiate ties to the university and industrial history of the Twin Cities – providing a welcoming atmosphere that embraces diverse people, cultures and communities who share the common desire to discover. Celebrating both the intellectual and the artist, the 304-room property gives nod to the geek-chic persona with playful experiences fancied around literary, art and science, from flights of local brew and alchemist mixology lessons at The Beacon Public House, to Sudoku Sleep-Ins and complimentary in-room book deliveries from the resident Book Butler.

Splurge: The Brazilian Court Hotel $90,000 90th Anniversary Package — Palm Beach, Fla.

The Brazilian Court Hotel $90,000 90th Anniversary Package*

The Brazilian Court Hotel invites guests to take a step back in time to the roaring 20s, pop a bottle of Dom Pérignon, and celebrate the landmark anniversary of The Brazilian Court Hotel with the “$90,000 90thAnniversary Package.” Guests will experience a sophisticated anniversary celebration with out-of-this world amenities, decadent fine dining, and accommodations that re-define the standard of luxury. “The Brazilian Court Hotel $90,000 90thAnniversary” package is available for a limited time, from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016.

Package Includes:

Accommodations for three nights in “The Vintage Collection”
Round trip airfare in private jet
Vintage Rolls Royce with personal chauffeur
90’ private yacht rental for up to 9 hours
Caviar, Godiva Chocolate and Dom Pérignon Butler
Private 9-course “Speakeasy” style dinner with wine pairings at Café Boulud
Daily breakfast and dinner from 1926-inspired Café Boulud menu
Bottle of Dom Pérignon in each room suite upon arrival
Diamond and emerald cufflinks for him and earrings for her

*Starting price per 12 guests. Three-night minimum stay required. Based upon availability with 30-day advance booking and 30-day cancellation required.

It’s not too late to sweep your sweetie off their feet!

Until then…

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old

Watch me discuss these Romantic Getaways on The Chat here.
<br /> <span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div> <div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div> <div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </div> </div> <p> </p> <div class="shopsense-widget" data-options="%7B%22widgetId%22%3A%2256be3e354df128828fb72c04%22%2C%22version%22%3A1%2C%22pid%22%3A%22uid1104-26557848-96%22%2C%22size%22%3A200%2C%22columns%22%3A3%2C%22rows%22%3A3%2C%22url%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fapi.shopstyle.com%2Fapi%2Fv2%22%7D"> <script> !function(doc,s,id){ var e, p; if(!doc.getElementById(id)) { e = doc.createElement(s); e.id = id; p = '//shopsensewidget.shopstyle.com/widget-script.js'; var cb = new Date().getTime(); p += '?cb=' + cb; e.src = p; doc.body.appendChild(e); } if(typeof window.ss_shopsense === 'object'){ if(doc.readyState === 'complete'){ window.ss_shopsense.init(); } } }(document, 'script', 'shopsensewidget-script'); </script> <iframe src="//shopsensewidget.shopstyle.com/#/?options=%7B%22widgetId%22%3A%2256be3e354df128828fb72c04%22%2C%22version%22%3A1%2C%22pid%22%3A%22uid1104-26557848-96%22%2C%22size%22%3A200%2C%22columns%22%3A3%2C%22rows%22%3A3%2C%22url%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fapi.shopstyle.com%2Fapi%2Fv2%22%7D" height="705px" width="705px" seamless style="border: 0;">

Trend Report | Featuring Belli Skincare

August 4, 2015 By Amy West

Travel and Lifestyle Blogger Amy West reviews Belli Skincare

Using high quality skincare that’s safe for my skin and free of harsh chemicals has always been important to me. I have the unique history of having practically grown up in the spa world. My parents opened a spa when I was 16 and from then through my early 20s I was immersed in a world where wellness and health were non negotiable priorities. Entering motherhood brought on a whole new world of concerns. Is what’s safe for mom necessarily safe for baby? The ultimate answer, is no, not always. Thankfully a skincare line has been developed specifically for expecting moms to meet the demand for quality products for the face and body that bring peace of mind, and great results for our most important organ, our skin. That line is Belli Skincare, and I recently had a chance to try it out for myself.

Purity You Can Trust

Belli skincare featured on Amy West Travel the Blog

Belli’s motto is “Picky for a Purpose”, and I think that perfectly communicates what they stand for. So many times when we are picky it’s easy to get labeled high maintenance, but in this case what could be a better reason to be picky than our unborn children? During development our little ones are so vulnerable to environmental disturbances. Choosing a skincare line free of artificial dyes and fragrances, allergy tested, and free of paraben preservatives and phthalates could mean a world of difference. It’s not just during pregnancy that matters, though sometimes that’s the reality check that get’s us looking deeper into what we consume and put on our bodies. Anything you put on your skin, can be absorbed in to the blood stream. That’s why it’s also important to consider what you are using when breastfeeding, and let’s face it, during any season of our lives.

Awaken Your Senses

I’m always searching for great new body products. When I discovered Belli, I decided to try out the Elasticity Oil, the Pure & Pampered Body Wash, and the All Day Moisture Body Lotion. Like many women, I tend to focus more on my face since it’s the first thing everyone sees, and don’t always make the rest of my body the priority. When you’re pregnant, you can’t really ignore everything else. So many changes are happening to your ever expanding mid section. To prevent serious after effects, treating your body right with lots of hydration is key.

One of the things I noticed first was the pleasant fragrance each individual product had. Nothing too intoxicating that would overpower preggo’s senses, but each line’s main ingredient could be detected through a delicate scent. For the Body Wash, and Elasticity Oil the Lavender and Chamomile gave my daily shower experience a new spa like ambiance. The lemon oil in the All Day Moisture Body Lotion, was invigorating and a great way to start the day. It’s wonderful being able to pamper your skin and refresh your senses with the knowledge that you are not only nourishing yourself, you are also protecting your baby at the same time.

Hydration is Key

For extra hydration check out Belli’s full line of facial products as well. Every momma wants that healthy glow, especially after baby is born and sleep is rare. For ultimate hydration my picks are the Healthy Glow Facial Hydrator, Eye Brightening Cream, and Sheer Comfort Lip Balm.

Taking care of baby ultimately means taking care of you too. Hydrate your skin, prevent and minimize stretch marks, and supply the skin you’re in with the moisture it craves. Expecting or not, these products are refreshing and nourishing and most importantly guilt free. Find Belli products at Ulta, Buy Buy Baby, Destination Maternity, and other fine retailers or purchase online.

Until then…

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.markupdesigns.net/old

Shop for Belli Skincare Here

wellness

Powered by Juicer