Kimberly Fisher's Blog, page 227

Travel Guest Post: Romantic New York City

New York City, NYC or the Big Apple, whatever you want to call it, one thing will remain the same: this is one of the most romantic and impressive cities in the world. Whether you have decided to enjoy an anniversary weekend away, a special Valentine's Day, or a city break for two, you cannot go wrong with picking New York as your destination. I admit, planning the perfect date can be a little nerve-racking, but before you bite off all your finger nails, let me offer you what I consider to be my top 6 romantic spots, which should really impress your sweetheart.

1. Central Park

Be it winter or summer, Central Park is one of the most beautiful parks I have ever been to and considering that this is in the heart of a busy city, that says something. I am a firm believer in the date must not end after a romantic candle lit meal, so make your way to Central Park where you can enjoy a horse and carriage ride around the park while enjoying each others company. If it is a warm summers day, why not enjoy the ripples of the water on a boat ride or visit the Belvedere Castle and the Conservatory Garden, the soothing surroundings will create a lovely romantic atmosphere.

2. Empire State Building

If you are looking to impress, then the amazing views from the observation deck of the Empire State Building will do the trick. This spot has amazing views over the New York skyline and is the perfect setting to end a romantic date with the glow of the city below.

3. Tiffany's

This world-famous store sells some of the most stunning jewelry, crystal and china. Even though the prices my cause a slight heart palpitation, you could always buy a pastry and window shop outside like Holly Golightly from "Breakfast at Tiffany's". If you are feeling bold, and have a little something special in mind for the girl of your dreams, then make your way inside, you will not be disappointed.

4. Ice Skating Rink at Rockefeller Center

Now I am not much of an ice skater myself, but in the name of romance, an hour or two will go along way in keeping the spark between the two of you, especially as you can hold hands, to keep each others balance of course. At night this skating rink is a really beautiful setting between the trees and sparkling lights.

5. Staten Island Ferry

If you want to give your date an unfamiliar, but memorable view of New York, then I suggest you take her on the ferry ride to Staten Island. Why I hear you say? Well for one thing the view of Manhattan is simply amazing and its offers the perfect opportunity to snuggle and gaze out over the water.

6. Lincoln Center Fountain

Even if you cannot serenade your beloved darling with your soulful voice, my suggestion would be to take her down towards the Lincoln Center Fountain, where the illumination at night is a sight to behold and surely is the right spot to get down on one knee and propose to that special someone?

Also, if you just want to sit down somewhere to have a chat and listen to some jazz, then this site is the perfect way to end your date.

For any of us who have visited New York, I am sure we all have our own special places that we consider to be the best, but if you know of any others, I would love to hear about them.

This article was written by Steven, a travel writer and blogger for nycvacationrentalsonline.com, a provider of New York vacation rental apartments.

Filed under: dating, guest post, holiday, new york, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: central park, empire state building, nyc, romance

Travel Guest Post: Fashion Tips for the World Traveler

According to the US Travel Association, domestic and international leisure travelers spend about $526 billion in the US each year! That's a lot of money to spend on travel, and even though Americans – and many people worldwide – are cutting back a bit on leisure travel these days, we're still going places. Whether you're jetsetting to the Italian coast or heading across the country to hang out with some family, you want to look good while you're traveling. It's especially important to look great when traveling internationally, since many European countries, particularly, are known for being less casual and better dressed than Americans.

Taking these fashion tips for your next trip around the country or around the world will help you look less touristy. Plus, you'll look better in all those photos you bring home!

Base your packing on several classic, neutral pieces that all go together. Mix and match is the key here! When you can create several outfits out of just a few tops and skirts or pants, your bags will be lighter. Plus, neutral colors like white, black, and beiges will help you blend in with the locals and not stand out like a tourist, which can have many advantages – including getting you better prices at some local markets. Black is a particularly good color for travel clothes, as well, because it doesn't show wrinkles as much!

Invest in some jeans that fit well. Jeans don't need an iron, go with everything, and are fashionable around the world – as long as they fit. Your jeans don't need to be particularly trendy, but they should fit your body type well and look great with any tops you decide to bring.

Avoid shorts and even short skirts. In most other countries around the world, adults don't wear shorts for every day wear. Plus, in some very traditional countries women, particularly, in shorts or short skirts may not be looked at askance. In some instances, they may even be denied admittance to certain religious buildings of cultural significance that have modesty laws.





Get comfortable shoes that look good with everything. You won't want to be wearing heels or uncomfortable dress shoes when you're trekking around on a sightseeing excursion, but you also shouldn't wear gym shoes, either. Comfortable ballet style flats for women and loafers for men look nice with anything and are also easy on the feet.





Think in layers. One of the reasons it's so important to have many pieces in your suitcase that all go together color-wise is that you'll want to dress in layers. Look up what type of weather you can expect for your destination during the time of year you're traveling, and then prepare for weather that is a few degrees cooler and warmer than that. Always take along a sweater or cardigan that goes with all your outfits, just in case.





Rely on your accessories. You may think that packing all neutral colors will simply be boring, especially if you're used to wearing bright or flashy pieces. However, you can dress up your outfits with accessories. Appropriate accessories like scarves, belts, and jewelry don't take up much room in your suitcases, and they can make your neutral outfits appropriate for many situations.





Pick the right travel bag. Of course, you'll have all your main gear in your suitcases, but you'll also want some sort of bag for when you're out sightseeing. Avoid fanny packs at all costs, and opt for a more stylish option, like a long-handled purse or a messenger bag. The key is to choose a bag with a strap that goes across your body, so that it won't easily be stolen. And, of course, you should always be extra careful of where you place important documents like your passport or traveler's checks!





Shop in the off-season. Some companies in particular make really great travel clothes that are wrinkle-resistant and generally easy to care for on the road. While these clothes are more expensive, you can save a bundle on them at end of season sales. If you're a credit card user, Ashyia Hill from CreditDonkey says, consider buying your new travel clothes with a travel credit card so you can earn points toward your next trip. Some include promotional sign up deals.

These fashion tips for world travelers will help you blend in with the locals and look nice from the moment you step off the plane.

Filed under: fashion, guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips

Travel Guest Post: Martine Inn Offers Couples Understated Elegance

I believe having grown up on the Monterey Peninsula, I'm a bit of an expert on the area and as such I'm also a bit picky about properties and dining in the area.

One place that has stood the test of time in my book and in the hearts of so many visitors to the area, is the luxurious Martine Inn in Pacific Grove, California.

The location of this gorgeous property sets the stage for the perfect getaway as it is only a few short blocks walking distance to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, some of the best night life of the area, and fine dining like the Sardine Factory, a locals' favorite for generations.

Don Martine, a savvy businessman, entrepreneur and famous car collector welcomes road tripping couples at the Martine Inn in the fashion that was customary in the 1800′s, for those of affluence and privilege.

A beautiful balance of warmth and unpretentious hospitality, sheer class and luxury and lovely ambiance make this a delightful stay through and through.

We indulged in the lovely cocktail and hors d'oeuvre hour, while we savored the spectacular view of the bay and resident sea mammals. Occasionally we used the binoculars provided in the parlor, for gazing at frolicking cormorants and playful otters.

The delicious and plentiful cocktail hour food was served on fine antique silver, china, lace and finery and was so beautiful and bountiful a presentation that truth be told, it could suffice as a meal.

Deviled eggs, homemade dips and hummus, cheeses, fruits and vegetable galore were enjoyed by all as Frank Sinatra oldies serenaded us from the parlor.

We enjoyed playing billiards on a century-old exquisite antique pool table, strolling along the coast line, and sitting by the fountain in the delightful garden courtyard.

We decided to dine at the award-winning Sardine Factory only a couple of minutes away and it was perfect in keeping with the theme of a luxurious and impeccable stay on the bay.

Our room was cozy, opulent and comfortable at the same time. And listening to the surf crash at night only added to the enjoyment.

Before leaving the Martine Inn we loved our chef-prepared breakfast overlooking the Peninsula. Don's chef has been preparing outstanding culinary delights for guests for over two decades.

If anyone is a Road Trips expert it is owner Don Martine, and in more ways than one! Don is a world renown collector and racer of MGs. Don has a restoration shop near the inn where he restores MGs and builds the engines for his beautiful collection. Many cars are on display as well as a fascinating collection of his historic helmets, paintings, trophies and other racing paraphernalia. It's nothing less than amazing to listen to Don share his passion, his talents, and his stories with regards to these magnificent automobiles that have inspired most of his life.

The Martine Inn also offers Golfer's Lover, Fireside Romance, Grand Romance, and Ultimate Romance Packages which are tailored to include such amenities as champagne, chocolates, massages, flowers, tee times and other goodies to make your stay the ultimate romantic escape.

Don's chef can accommodate special groups, twelve course dinners and offers a sumptuous Thanksgiving Dinner as well. The traditional Thanksgiving Day fare – Turkey, Ham and Duck, with all the trimmings is served with Gorham Silver from the 1890′s.

At Thanksgiving, each guest is hand-served additional helpings from the lavish buffet. The fire is roaring, the waves are crashing and all those gathered together are immersed in the spirit of thankfulness and good cheer. Thanksgiving at the Martine Inn is an American Tradition, held in the 1890′s mansion, overlooking the Monterey Bay.

There is even a suite that can accommodate couples traveling together.

Anytime guests visit they will appreciate little extras, such as teas and coffees served on fine china throughout the day along with cookies, a blazing fire in the parlor, gourmet breakfast, and a departing travel bag filled with homemade baked goods and thoughtful road trip goodies.

It's a memorable experience from arrival to departure with sheer delight sandwiched in between.

Author: Carmel L. Mooney of RoadtripsforCouples.com.

Filed under: adventure, california, guest post, hotels, travel, travel planning, travel tips

Travel Guest Post: Tips for Traveling Long Term

As more people look to enjoy their life by traveling more, whether by working remotely or freelancing during their younger years or as a way to spend their golden years, there are many things that you need to think about before packing up and hitting the road.  Use this as a checklist as you prepare to begin your long-term travel.

Have Online Bill Pay Set Up

Switch all of your accounts to be paid directly through automatic withdrawals from your primary bank account.  If you plan to rent out your house, you'll want to be sure that your mortgage and utilities are set up so that service can continue without interruption.  Arrange for a management company to take in the rent payment or have the renters pay you through an online bank transfer. Also set your accounts so that they are "paperless" meaning you get them delivered via email or can log in to the company's site and see your current bill.  While online bill pay is pretty seamless, computer glitches and human error can cause problems, so be sure to monitor your accounts monthly.

Cancel Subscriptions

You don't want to be surprised one day to find out that you owe for months of premium cable that you never watched, so be sure to cancel, and turn off the 'auto-renew' function on your account, any newspaper and magazine subscriptions as well as phone, internet, cable, lawn and garbage services that you may already be signed up for.

Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Company

If you are traveling long-term, especially if you are going out of the country, be sure to tell your financial institutions so they can put a notice on the account to allow out of area and country transactions. There's nothing like being declined for an important purchase, even though you have the funds in your account, when you are abroad.  Also make sure you know what fees you will incur for using out of network ATMs and using your credit cards in foreign countries.

Have A Plan to Make Extra Money

Those who want to travel long-term should find some way to make extra money while on the traveling to prolong the life of their savings and add to their experiences.  Crafty people might sell their goods at craft shows throughout the country or bargain hunters can scope out thrift stores and garage sales for items to resell, at higher prices, online.  Freelance writing and web design are also other ways to earn some extra cash if you don't already have a job set up.

Set Up An Emergency Fund

Before setting out make sure to have an emergency fund for true emergencies like when the heater in your RV quits during a mid-Western winter or you are abroad and suddenly need to return back to your hometown.  For each person, aim to have two months worth of your previous living expenses in a savings account that you can easily access.  If you are abroad, you'll want to make sure that you include the cost of a plane ticket in that amount as well.

Plan to Start Your Travels in Southeast Asia

For those just starting out who want a lower cost of living area to stretch their money while starting to make extra money, try going to Southeast Asia where the cost of living, as well as the standards of living, are considerably lower than North America and Europe.  Your freelance income will go a lot further and you'll feel less pressure to keep up with the latest gadgets.

Have A Budget

Before setting off, establish a budget to follow so that you can keep track of your money. If you are going abroad, check online to find out about costs in the country you're headed to.  Expect to have to tweak it occasionally, especially the first few months. Be sure to add to your savings while you travel; don't spend every dime you make.

Keep Up With Your Tax Responsibilities

Keep in contact with your tax preparer during your journey. Just because you don't have a mailbox or a permanent job like before doesn't mean you don't owe taxes in your home country.  You need to keep up with your responsibilities to the IRS so that they don't come at you with a bill in the future.

These are among the most important things to do before and during long-term travel to make sure that you survive financially.  Make connections with others who have done or are doing long-term travel to get their suggestions as well.

Author: Ryan McKenzie writes for http://www.infobarrel.com

 

Filed under: guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: long term travel tips

Travel Guest Post: 5 Most Famous Hotels in the World

The concept of grand hotels originated under American and European auspices. In many cases celebrities have immortalized certain hotels, and their names are inextricably linked. Cesar Ritz is certainly first among equals when it comes to famous hoteliers. Conrad Hilton, Mimi Sheraton, Isadora Sharp, Biltmore, Mayfair, Astor, and many other names also come to mind. Martin Luther King conceived his famous speech at the Willard in Washington D.C. Many hotels with great historic significance have fallen to hard times, while others struggle to recapture past glories. Famous does not necessarily mean luxurious or expensive, but most people tend to expect these attributes from famous lodgings.

Famous hotels tell the story of modern civilization. The Fairmont in San Francisco on trendy Nob Hill survived the great earthquake of 1906 and the devastating fire that followed. The Hay Adams in Washington D.C. has housed presidents and world-famous diplomats and heads-of-state. France has many famous hotels from Paris to the Cote d'Azur. Hotels along Lake Geneva are famous for five-star luxury, but many modern travelers take their car rentals and hotel bookings to the Caribbean, where the modern tourist industry has created resorts so comprehensive that vacationers never need to leave the grounds. Travelers should strive to book a room at the most famous hotel they can afford when vacationing or traveling on business. The top hotels in the world would certainly include these five institutions.

The Savoy, London, England was built in 1889 and has a storied history. Cesar Ritz was the first general manager and he introduced Auguste Escoffier to London society. This chef revolutionized kitchens all over the world by introducing a codified system of station preparation still employed today by the finest restaurants. Historically, the Savoy Hotel was the location of Winston Churchill's Other Club and Oscar Wilde's London address. It has recently received a £100 million facelift for modern convenience, while retaining Edwardian and Art Deco interior design. With spectacular views of the Thames, the 268 guest rooms offer easy access to museums, theatre and other central London attractions.

Four Seasons George V, Paris, France

The Four Seasons is the world's largest luxury hotel chain, and the George V in Paris is their flagship operation. Carefully restored to elegance, the hotel offers vacationers elegant rooms with private terraces and is located a few steps from the famous Champs-Elysées Boulevard. The Le Cinq restaurant has earned two Michelin stars in a city famous for cuisine. Paris is the City of Lights and boasts two thousand years of historical attractions, famous art, and influential architecture. The Hotel George V Paris offers easy access to the Seine, Arc de Triomphe, or Eiffel Tower. Visitors can hire a car and enjoy incredible shopping experiences within a 15-minute drive.

Hotel Cipriani & Palazzo Vendramin, Venice, Italy

Venice is a historic symbol of the Dolce Vita, and the Hotel Cipriani offers quick access to the splendid romance of Venice, but retains a bit of independence because the hotel is located on the Giudecca Island. The hotel provides access to Saint Mark's Square by private launch within minutes. This hotel provides stunning views of Venice and provides guests a modern resort atmosphere. Venetian hotels only provide views of the lagoon, but Hotel Cipriani gives tourists views they really paid to see. Guests can enjoy leisurely private walks or jogging trails. The hotel offers one of the few swimming pools in all of Venice. The fitness and wellness center is named after Casanova, who once roamed the beautiful gardens seeking romance.

Beverly Wilshire Hotel, Beverly Hills, California

The Beverly Wilshire is also a Four Seasons Hotel and offers the quintessential movie star treatment to guests. Located on Wilshire Boulevard and famous Rodeo Drive, the hotel is the perfect venue for shopping at the world's most famous destinations. Nearby are famous plastic surgery facilities, making it a great choice for recuperative rest after a facelift or tummy tuck. The hotel has perfected service for temperamental guests and offers classical elegance with all modern amenities. Car hire allows guests to visit nearby Hollywood attractions and the canyons and hills of Los Angeles, where celebrities own multi-million dollar estates. Dining options feature casual dining at Blvd or celebrity-chef Wolfgang Puck's Cut Restaurant, which is a classic steakhouse with a modern twist. Elvis Presley and Warren Beatty once called the Beverly Wilshire home, as did John Lennon after separating from Yoko Ono. Woolworth heiress Barbara Hutton lived there during the last unfortunate years of her life. Previous guests include Barrack Obama, Elton John, Dustin Hoffman, Al Pacino, Walter Matthau, and Japanese Emperor Hirohito.

The MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is known for luxury hotels and the MGM Grand tops the list because it is world-famous and accorded five-star status. MGM refers to historic Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studio, which was a staple during the golden age of Hollywood. The MGM Grand is the largest hotel in the world with over six thousand rooms and suites. Guests have access to 24-hour butler service, in addition to traditional concierge and maid services. Spectacular windows provide floor to ceiling views of the Las Vegas strip and all the amenities one could desire. Multiple pools and spas, celebrity-chef cuisines, and sumptuous buffets characterize this unparalleled resort. There is also a replica of the infamous Studio 54, the hedonistic club experience of the 1970s, and management claims it is wilder than the original.

Hotels may be famous for their historical impact, their luxury and amenities, or the people who have been guests during the hotel's history. Many entrepreneurs have developed outstanding properties and lent their names to their hotels. Many of these properties meet luxury standards and have rich and famous guests, such as many Donald Trump properties. True fame, however,  to the select few hotels that have met all historical requirements for fame and are still providing guests with luxury accommodations is limited

Author: Steven Hampshire

Filed under: guest post, hotels, luxury Tagged: famous, four seasons paris, hotels, luxury, mgm grand, the savoy

Lifestyle Guest Post: A Wickedly Successful New Year

A Wickedly Successful New Year: Nine Strategies to Help

You Stop Enduring and Start Creating a Life That REALLY Works

Looking for something with more impact (and sticking power) than the usual

doomed-to-fail resolutions? Vickie Milazzo wants you to make 2012 the year you finally

buck up and start living the life YOU want to live—recession be damned!

            As 2011 is drawing to a close and, for many recession-wracked Americans, it feels like just another mile marker in an endurance race going nowhere. Depressing, but true. We trudge through the week at a dreary job, drive home fretting about money, and spend our evenings robot-walking through the usual haze of homework battles and half-finished chores. Passion and fulfillment? Nope, just sheer survival. And the worst part is, most of us have meekly accepted that this is how it has to be right now.

Vickie Milazzo has a message for all us "endurers": Buck up! You can do a lot more than (barely) get by—and 2012 can be the year you actually start living your life again.

"I'm not talking about the kind of new year's resolution that's just wishful thinking pasted on top of your old lifestyle," asserts Milazzo, author of the New York Times bestseller, Wicked Success Is Inside Every Woman (Wiley, 2011, ISBN: 978-1-1181-0052-3, $21.95, WickedSuccess.com). "I'm talking about truly changing the way you think about things, breaking old habits, putting some real boundaries in place and tapping into your determination.

"I'm talking about taking responsibility for your own happiness," she adds. "Don't you think if someone was going to swoop in and rescue you it would already have happened?"

Milazzo has earned the right to be a tough talker. In 1982 she faced the reality that she was unhappy with the direction her life had taken. She was a registered nurse with a bachelor's and master's degree. But after six short years of hospital experience, Vickie felt like she was in a dead-end job. She still wanted to be a nurse, but on her own terms. Today she is the founder and CEO of a multi-million dollar legal nurse consulting education company.

"It is possible to create a life that excites and energizes you," she says. "But first you have to make a conscious choice to step out of your old, unfulfilling one. And it's a choice you have to make over and over again—if you don't your old patterns will suck you back in."

To achieve what Milazzo calls "Wicked Success" you have to cultivate a new, wickedly resourceful mindset. She offers nine strategies that can help you do exactly that in 2012:

Break the feel-good addiction. Remember, where you focus is where you'll yield results. And because we like to feel good, we gravitate toward what's easy instead of what's productive. We major in minor accomplishments, wasting time surfing the Internet, watching TV, hanging out on Facebook, trying to beat our high score on Angry Birds.

"Here's a news flash: There's no real life prize for being great at Angry Birds," says Milazzo. "It's time to let go of time-sucking distractions. The more superficial things you engage in the more superficial your life and accomplishments will be. So the next time you have a break at work or the next time all the kids are out of the house, instead of checking your email, Facebook or texts, use the time to take a step toward achieving one of your goals."

Stop being the Chief Everything Officer – don't say "Yes" by default. It's a hard lesson to learn but in order to be wickedly successful, you have to understand that by saying "no" to some things you will have the time and energy to say "yes" to the right things. If you're feeling overwhelmed and pulled in every direction you won't be able to lead yourself, much less anyone else.

"Stop committing your energy to every person or situation that demands it," advises Milazzo. "You need to set your own expectations of what you want to accomplish. Don't let your career or life take a backseat to everyone else's. Yes, you have responsibilities to others. But you've also got a responsibility to yourself."

Do something big every day. You eat a whale the same way you eat an apple – one bite at a time. The wickedly successful understand that to accomplish any project you can't expect to do it all at once.

"This is often why our New Year's resolutions don't work out," notes Milazzo. "You say, 'I am going to lose 20 pounds!' And then you implement a new exercise regimen—or heck, just start actually exercising—and after two days of no weight loss you get discouraged. You aren't going to achieve your goals over night. You have to work at it every day. Commit to doing something big every day towards that project or goal and you'll reach it. Keep working out regularly and slowly but surely you'll see the results. Find something you can improve and start improving it – one bite, one step, one day at a time."

Stop hanging with the biggest losers. When you choose to participate in negative behaviors they rub off on you. Think about it this way: If you're struggling to achieve a goal, you shouldn't hang out with someone else who is struggling to achieve that same goal. If you want to be great at golf, you don't hang out with a bad golfer.

"Successful people tend to hang out with other successful people, not with losers who whine about someone else's success," says Milazzo. "Stick with the winners. The view from the top is meant to be shared. Find someone who's already there to share it with, not someone who's never seen it."

Expand what you're willing to believe about yourself. Studies show that women will underestimate their own abilities, judging themselves lower than their skills prove, while men overestimate their abilities, judging themselves more competent. If you see yourself as powerless that's what you will be. Anytime you find yourself entertaining doubts or trying to limit what you think is possible, remind yourself of your past successes. Let them infuse you with confidence and bolster your resolve.

"Believing you can do it—whatever 'it' is—is 90 percent of the win," assures Milazzo. "When I walked into my first meeting with a potential client, my legs were literally shaking. I forced myself to remember that this attorney needed specialized knowledge that only I—a critical care nurse—could give him. That reminder didn't banish all of my nervousness, but it did enable me to make the points I wanted with my first client. I learned that when you expand what you're willing to believe about yourself, you can transform who you are and what your life looks like."

Don't wait for conditions to be perfect. Along the way to becoming wickedly successful, you may have to redefine what success looks like for you. Conditions will never be perfect – there will always be something muddying the water, even if it's just a little muddy.

"The real challenge is accepting that you have to keep on giving your best even when things aren't perfect," says Milazzo. "Misguided perfectionism can keep you from stepping out and going for what you want. Perfectionism can also rob you of the enjoyment of experiences. Distinguishing what does and doesn't require perfection is the hallmark of wickedly successful women."

Surround yourself with as many successful mentors as possible. Inept coaches don't fail to help you – they help you to fail. Look around you for others whose work you admire and model yourself after them instead.

"Get out of the rut of your own habits," advises Milazzo. "Take your advice from people with a proven positive track record. Accepting the leadership of others does not make you less capable of achieving your goals. It actually boosts your abilities. Don't be afraid to ask for advice. And when you get good advice, don't be too proud to follow it."

Regenerate your passion for work. Do you remember why you wanted the career you have? There aren't many jobs that offer easy hours and easy money, so that probably wasn't it. It was probably the love you had for the profession whether you get to help people everyday, use your creativity, crunch numbers or whatever your passion is. Tap back into the frame of mind you had when you were just starting out. Ask yourself, What can I do to become passionate about work again?

"When you take this inward look, it is entirely possible you'll see the path ahead going in an unexpected direction," says Milazzo. "Your passion might lead you somewhere else. That's what happened to me when I started my business. I was a registered nurse and I realized I wanted more passion, more joy in the part of my life that sucked up 10 hours every day. That journey led me to pioneer the profession of legal nurse consulting. You'll know passion when you've found it because you'll feel amazingly engaged and energetic. Desire will become energy and you'll have plenty of it to create your new life—your real life."

Take care of yourself first. If you stepped back and looked at your daily routine objectively, as if it were happening to your best friend, what would be your advice? Slow down? Take a few deep breaths? Spend a few moments enjoying one day before another day crashes in with new demands?

"We need to give ourselves such loving advice—and listen to it," advises Milazzo. "We need to thrive, not just survive. To have healthy, exciting and fulfilling relationships with others, we must first have a healthy, exciting and fulfilling relationship with ourselves. Don't be so busy taking care of others that you forget to take care of yourself. You can't be your best self if you're not your own self."

"There's no reason why 2012 can't be your biggest, boldest, most wickedly successful year yet," says Milazzo. "But for that to happen you have to match your big goals with some real changes. You have to take on a wickedly successful mindset that doesn't take 'no' or 'I can't' or 'I'm too tired' for an answer."

# # #

About the Author:

Vickie Milazzo, RN, MSN, JD, is the author of the New York Times bestseller Wicked Success Is Inside Every Woman (Wiley, 2011, ISBN: 978-1-1181-0052-3, $21.95, www.WickedSuccess.com). From a shotgun house in New Orleans to owner of a $16-million business, Milazzo shares the innovative success strategies that earned her a place on the Inc. list of Top 10 Entrepre¬neurs and Inc. Top 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies in America.

Vickie is the owner of Vickie Milazzo Institute, an education company she founded in 1982. Featured in the New York Times as the pioneer of a new profession, she built a professional association of 5,000 members.

Vickie has been featured or profiled in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Entrepreneur, Houston Chronicle, Ladies' Home Journal, Texas Bar Journal, Los Angeles Times, Philadelphia Inquirer, and in more than 220 newspapers. Vickie has appeared on national radio and TV, including the National Public Radio program This I Believe and more than 200 national and local radio stations.

She is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller Inside Every Woman: Using the 10 Strengths You Didn't Know You Had to Get the Career and Life You Want Now. Vickie is recognized as a trusted mentor and dynamic role model by tens of thousands of women, a distinction that led to her national recognition as the Stevie Awards' Mentor of the Year.

Vickie was recognized as the Most Innovative Small Business by Pitney Bowes's Priority magazine and received Susan G. Komen's Hope Award for Ambassadorship. Author, educator, and nationally acclaimed speaker, this multimillionaire entrepreneur shares her vast experience with thousands of women.

About the Book:

Wicked Success Is Inside Every Woman (Wiley, 2011, ISBN: 978-1-1181-0052-3, $21.95, www.WickedSuccess.com) is available at bookstores nationwide and from major online booksellers.

 

Filed under: guest post, lifestyle, motivational Tagged: lifestyle, motivation, self improvement

Travel Guest Post: A Scottish New Year

There is nothing like New Year in Scotland. Whether you are in a local pub, on the streets of Edinburgh or enjoying a party with friends and family Scotland seems to be in its element at Hogmanay.

Scotland's flagship Hogmanay event is in Edinburgh. With leading music events and DJs this is an all ticket affair. The concert is part of the larger street party in Princes Street. You can still have a great time in Edinburgh without buying a ticket– there are lots of great pubs in Edinburgh and many will be having parties to bring in the New Year. Alternatively there will be a torchlight procession from Parliament Square to Calton Hill with a fireworks display.

There are many other events at the theatres and concert venues that Edinburgh such a great city for a party. The Usher Hall has Scottish Fiddle Orchestra – hive you ever heard; Auld Lang Syne played by a fiddle orchestra? The Queenshall will do things in a traditional Scottish way with a Ceilidh hosted by the band Heeliegoleerie and piper to bring in the New Year.

If all this sounds rather full on perhaps a more peaceful time in Perthshire might be the way to bring in 2012.  Auchterarder might be a good place to stay. There is a good assortment of pubs in town to choose from and there is a great array of shops. What better way to clear your head on New Year's day than to stroll along the Oak Walk from the town? Mackays has two Scottish cottages in Aucterrarder that have both received excellent reviews for previous guests.

Should you still feel you want a big party to enjoy at a New Year Perth Race Course Bring in the New Year with Perth race course. This offers a mixture of the traditional Ceilidh and disco at the racecourse just to the north of Perth.

Pitlochry is one of the Scottish towns that goes a bit crazy for New Year. They close their main street and have a proper party. The pubs and hotels of this beautiful Scottish Highland town make a special effort to welcome the guests. Mackays has several Scottish cottages available in and around Pitlochry. all just a short walk from the party.

There is something to do for Hogmanay where ever you stay in Scotland and Mackays probably has a self catering cottage nearby. To see all the Scottish cottages to choose from visit www.macakys-self-catering.co.uk.

Author: Abhishek Bhan

Filed under: guest post, holiday, scotland, scottland Tagged: new year's, scotland

Travel Guest Post: Sofitel San Francisco Bay, Romantic Luxury for Couples

Perhaps no better location exists for couples planning an escape to the San Francisco Bay area than the gorgeous Sofitel San Francisco Bay.

A lovely property located in Redwood City where the former Marine World Africa USA once stood, the property overlooks the lovely lagoon that hosted the water ski shows at Marine World many years ago.

With a European flavor and resort style this exceptional property is located at just the perfect locale to explore the city by the bay, or the nearby San Jose area. The Shoreline Amphitheater, a venue for concerts and performances is a quick ten minutes away as is the Stanford Theater. The San Francisco Zoo, Steinhart Aquarium, Filoli Gardens, Hiller Aviation Museum, Great America, and Golden Gate Park are a short drive from the property. The San Francisco airport is conveniently located just miles away.

You'll know you are experiencing a cut above, from the moment you arrive at this beautifully appointed and architecturally pleasing oasis.

The pool and fitness center are both delightful and the hotel's bar is a work of art, as well as known for its signature drinks.

Chef Emmanuel Robert welcomes patrons to Bay 223, the dining establishment located in the hotel. There, breakfast, lunch, dinner, brunch and lovely holiday meals with all the trimmings are offered. Numerous gluten-free specialties are also appreciated by many.

Room service is available throughout the hotel whether a snack or hot meal is preferred, even in the wee hours of the morning.

Keeping with Accor Hotel's fine quality, the rooms are well-appointed and spacious. Bedding is luxurious and wonderfully comfortable. The highest quality toiletries and amenities are enjoyed in every room. Bottled water, quality coffee and tea, vanity kits, and lighted make-up mirrors only add to the comfort.

For added convenience, a salon is located in the lobby along with a market. And shuttle transportation is available to and from the San Francisco Airport, hourly.

A wonderful marriage of utter comfort and elegance along with convenience and practicality can be found at the Sofitel San Francisco Bay. Hospitality is paramount and excellent service is expected.

The Sofitel San Francisco Bay is the perfect choice for any San Francisco Bay getaway.

Author: Carmel L. Mooney of RoadTripsforCouples.com.

 

Filed under: california, guest post, hotel, San Francisco, travel, travel planning, travel tips, travel writing Tagged: california, luxury, San Francisco, Sofitel

Travel Guest Post: College Moving 101

 

Any college student knows that moving back and forth to school gets easier every time. While you went all out Freshman year and rented a U-Haul for the trip down to your dorm, by senior year, you're an expert at stuffing your life into a four-dour sedan and cruising to and from campus like a pro.

Mastering the art of moving like a college student is about a thousand times easier than making it to an 8am class three times a week, and these packing tips work great in the "real world" too. Here are few tips you can use to pack for your next trip with the efficiency of a college student and avoid standing in line at baggage checking and claim!

Become A Packing Whiz

If you ever played Tetris as a kid, you've already got a leg up on making an ironing board, a full-length mirror, full bedspread and mini-fridge fit into a small trunk. Put your biggest items in first: sweatshirts, coats or pants. You can also wear your bulkier items to save space. With your biggest items in the suitcase, you can wedge smaller items like shirts or accessories in between them. Rolling your items or stacking them all and then doing a bulk fold can also cut down on lots of space. Keep important items like wallets or passports close to you at all times, and avoid putting these through checked luggage.

For car trips, you can use the same principles of loading in the biggest things first and then moving to smaller, more slender items. Make sure to leave room for other travelers and keep personal items within easy reach.

My trips to and from Bloomington, Indiana (home of Indiana University), were smoother each year once I learned how to pack. Traveling has never been easier.

What To Do In Bloomington: Sports, Food

I lived in Bloomington from 2006-2010 and found plenty of things to keep me busy for the four-year span. Nick's English Hut, one of my favorite spots in Bloomington is a great place to have dinner, watch a big game or have a few drinks. A restaurant and bar mix, it's reminiscent of your favorite college hangout, but better.

The Oliver Winery offers free wine tastings every business day. You can also make reservations to take part in a special wine tasting, take a tour of the facility or enjoy wine and cheese while overlooking the vineyard.

The Indiana University campus has a lot to see and do as well. The Lily Library, Indiana Art Museum, Old Crescent, Showalter Fountain Plaza, Arboretum and Sports Facilities are great to walk through and take pictures. The entire city is especially beautiful in the fall and is nice for a simple stroll in town, day of shopping or playing nine holes at Cascade's Golf Course.

Bon Voyage

Whether you're traveling around the world or an hour away, to Bloomington or to Europe, knowing how to pack wisely and take advantage of your vacation are the most important aspects of travel. So, pack up, hit the road (or the air) and see the world!

Author: Meagan Brown

Filed under: guest post, travel tips, Uncategorized Tagged: college moving tips

Travel Guest Post: Hotel de la Paix

White feathers are an international symbol of peace. This year, Hôtel de la Paix (The Hotel of Peace), a five-star boutique hotel dedicated to community sustainability in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is dedicated to touching millions world-wide with an Eco-conscious Christmas tree composed of  3,200 white feathers, hung delicately on individual wires from the ceiling in the hotel's lobby. Now, more than 3 million unique users have viewed this special Christmas tree on Facebook, working towards the hotel's initiative to helping Cambodia shine. 



The mammoth task took more than 10 days of preparation, several dedicated staff members and three engineers to complete. Check out the expert engineering behind this dream project: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvLHlpPOixE




With a blend of ultra-modern design and Khmer palace-style architecture, the innovative Christmas tree fits in seamlessly with the designs of world-renowned architect, Bill Bensely, which recently helped the hotel achieve Gold List status as Conde Nast Traveller UK's 2011 Best Hotel for Ambiance and Design.


Filed under: guest post, holiday, Uncategorized Tagged: cambodia, holiday