Destinations: A Fashionable Travel Guide to London

Tonight I'll be fawning over the 2012 Summer Olympics opening ceremony in between packing up clothes and kitchen appliances (we're moving out of our condo this weekend). In celebration of the Summer Games, here's a fun and fashionable travel guide to London.

London Style & Fashion
You gotta appreciate the Brits' affinity for clean lines and sharp design. Here, some of my favorite summer looks from London and British fashion designers:

Rosie Huntington Whitley in Stella McCartney spring/summer 2012
Photo courtesy of glam.co.uk

OK, tear yourself away from Rosie's legs for a second. I know, it's tough. (Those gams are seriously unfair.) I loved this circle print dress from Stella McCartney's spring/summer 2012 line when I saw it on the runway (from the comfort of my couch via live stream) and think Rosie did a fantastic job of taking it from runway to everyday by adding a skinny belt and structured bag.

Photo courtesy of McQ by Alexander McQueen

Cute, girly and...is that a Little Red Riding Hood look I'm seeing? There's no chance in hell I could pull off this fishnet and vixen red shoe combo, but I do love the lines of this dress. Paired with some simple black heels, I think it could be a viable summer office ensemble.

Photo courtesy of Ted Baker

In Phoenix, summertime outfits often consist of flowing, cotton dresses and flip flops (that's on a day I'm feeling ambitious). So my whole idea of "Oh, this jumpsuit would be so great for summertime cocktail parties" is a complete fantasy. Either way, it's a work of art - no?

Photo courtesy of Angelika London

 

 

Created by designer Olivia Anne Totman, Angelika London's summer collection is all about lightweight fabrics and bright, playful prints. Maxi and mini dresses and tank-tops are emblazoned with butterflies, golden feathers and dream catchers. The collection is a sprightly alternative to the other more structured looks above.

Photo courtesy of LUXE City Guides

Find London's best shopping spots with LUXE London, a tongue-in-cheek travel guide to the city. With tips and advice on everything from the best places for lunch to the area's top hotels, this pocket-sized travel guide is packed with valuable info and fits easily into your tote.

London Hotels
A big event like the Summer Olympics means a big influx of tourists. And that means a ton of new London hotels. One of the most anticipated is The Ampersand Hotel in London's South Kensington District. Aesthetic focuses on five central concepts: botany, music, geometry, ornithology and astronomy — all part of South Kensington's DNA. Read more about The Ampersand and other London hotels on my SheKnows.com Checking In column.

Photo courtesy of The Ampersand Hotel

Destinations: A Photo Tour of Seattle

My trip to the Pacific Northwest earlier this summer took me on an Amtrak ride from Portland to Seattle, which I loved. Train is such an easy and convenient way to travel, and this route was especially scenic. I couldn't stop snapping photos. In fact, I couldn't stop snapping photos even when I arrived in Seattle. Here are some of my favorite shots from the trip.

It was my first time in Seattle so, naturally, I had to make time for a visit to Pike Place Market. I could have spent my entire day browsing the fresh produce, coffee and cute handmade goods. I'm a total sucker for fresh cut flowers and they were everywhere.

From a balcony along Pike Place Market, I found fantastic views of the action in Puget Sound.

Kenmore Air took us on a seaplane tour of Seattle and the Puget Sound. The views of Seattle landmarks like the Space Needle and nearby Lake Union and Elliott Bay were something I'll never forget. I was slightly nervous to take off in such a small plane but, thankfully, the ride was surprisingly smooth.

Stunning sights from our Seattle seaplane adventure.

After the air adventure, we were whisked away to Washington's wine country where stops on our tour with Evergreen Escapes included Covington Cellars and Hollywood Hills Vineyards (pictured above). The wine country, called Woodinville, is about 20 miles from Seattle and home to nearly 100 wineries and tasting rooms. Tours with Evergreen Escapes give you one-on-one time with winemakers, lunch, tastings, and winery tours.

Me and my pal, Lola, one of Covington Cellars' resident pups.

Left to right: Snapping photos (at a safe distance) of the crazy seagulls at Ivar's Acres of Clams; Pike's Place Market; getting ready for take-off with Kenmore Air; Seattle's infamous gum wall.

2012 Style-Passport Summer Beach Blogs Competition

This morning when my alarm went off, I rolled over to check email on my phone (bad habit, don't do it!) and found some fantastic news: Style Jaunt has been nominated for the 2012 Style-Passport Summer Beach Blogs Competition! Please visit the style-passport blog and click "vote now" to cast your vote for Style Jaunt. You'll be entered to win a pretty cool prize package that includes a Missoni poncho, sunnies and a pair of Havaianas flip-flops. Voting ends Wednesday, July 25 - so vote now, and vote often! At the very least, you'll have some new blogs to add to your blogroll. I perused them today and already love 'em.

Where to Stay: Hotel Monaco Portland

Photo courtesy of Hotel Monaco Portland

Hotel Monaco is Portland at its finest - a smart, eclectic and eco-friendly boutique hotel near the Pearl District, Pioneer Square and other Portland landmarks.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Monaco Portland

Rooms are spacious and recently renovated with a wild scheme that plays off Portland's weird personality in the very best way. The birds in the wallpaper pictured here are actually local to the area - surprise, surprise! Like all Kimpton Hotels, Hotel Monaco is pet-friendly but offers hypoallergenic rooms.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Monaco Portland

Personally, it's the small and thoughtful touches that can turn me from a visitor into a fan for life. Hotel Monaco (and Kimpton, on that note) is the King of thoughtfulness. You can rent free bikes to tour downtown Portland and there's a daily wine hour in the lobby that's complimentary to all guests. The one at this property is especially cool. We're talking Henna tattoos, balloon artists and free donuts from Portland's own Voodoo Doughnuts. And, yes - you get a pet goldfish during your stay, too.

Left to right: Cute & cuddly touches to my room; my goldfish, Inspirador; a fellow writer's alien friend, courtesy of the balloon artist; and a nearby Portland food cart, one of many within walking distance.

Portland is a foodie's dream and Red Star Tavern & Roast House at Hotel Monaco is a local favorite. Cocktails are hand-crafted and imaginative, and whiskey flows freely. Regional American fare and small bites are the perfect complement to the drinks and the restaurant's relaxed atmosphere.

Clockwise from left: Delicious small bites at Red Star Tavern and Voodoo Doughnuts
at Hotel Monaco Portland's free wine hour.

Celebrities at the Airport: Will & Jada Pinkett Smith

Photo courtesy of People.com

There's something about Will Smith and wife Jada Pinkett Smith that just screams "awesome." Like the type of couple I could spend a weekend with. You know, if I lived in Hollywood and was famous. In all seriousness, though, can't you just picture them kicking back for a backyard BBQ with some good food and beer? I love that they can go from completely glam to chill and still look great. And while I'm a little scared about Jada's shoe situation in this photo (are they nylons?!), I'm in love with Will's t-shirt, jeans and Phillies hat combo. Way to keep it real. Read about their airport adventures on People.com.

Honeymoon Ideas: Riviera Maya

So, we did it! We finally decided on a honeymoon destination. In August, the fiance husband and I will be heading for six days and seven nights of total relaxation in the Riviera Maya. With the help of our travel agent (the first time we ever worked with one and now I'm totally obsessed), we booked the five-star, all-inclusive Excellence Playa Mujeres for a killer rate.

Photo courtesy of Excellence Playa Mujeres

Ultimately, when we really honed in on our budget and wants, our two top destinations were the Riviera Maya and Jamaica. An easier flight path, stellar resort ratings, and a variety of spectacular perks as an added-value (a private dinner on the beach!) were what sold us on Excellence Playa Mujeres.

Excellence Playa Mujeres

 We plan on spending the majority of time at the resort. Specifically, here:

Photo courtesy of Excellence Playa Mujeres

But we do want to break away for a bit to see the Mayan ruins (probably Tulum since it's our first time) and spend a day on Isla Mujeres. A trip to the Mexican island was already on our list and then I read this article on Frommers.com and it made me even more excited!

The clear blue waters of Isla Mujeres.
Photo courtesy of worldalldetails.com

So, there we have it. Many thanks to all of you for your recommendations! Researching the list of romantic and exotic honeymoon destinations that you sent our way was such a treat. I'll be sure to tell you all about our experience at Excellence Playa Mujeres.

In My Travel Bag: Luxe City Guides

Photo courtesy of Luxe City Guides

Kick start your summer travel in style with Luxe City Guides' new limited edition Summer Bespoke Box Set ($55). The white linen box is practically an accessory in its own right - I love the chic coral interior sleeve and lining. It's the perfect resource for your summer vacation planning and even a great gift for a fabulous gal pal.

Personalize your travel guide set by choosing from a list of destinations like Florence, Istanbul and Madrid. Each one is a bright and fun read on the locale and offers tips on the best places to eat and stay, with a special focus on shopping.

You'll get a hyper-opinionated and quippy look at standout stores and local artisans, as well as really unique shopping itineraries. The best part is that Luxe City Guides are updated each year and come with free online updates - so you won't waste any time tracking down a closed store.

Travel Beauty: Stila Travel Palettes

Photo courtesy of Stila Cosmetics

On a trip to Ulta the other day, I came across these all-in-one travel palettes from Stila. A collection special for summer travel, the Stila Travel Palettes ($16) are inspired by fashionable destinations around the world like Rio and London. They come with four eyeshadows, a cheek color and a highlighter/bronzer. Some are already sold out on Stila.com, so check out Ulta.com or Sephora.com as an alternative.

Where to Stay: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik

Photo courtesy of Hotel Excelsior

For me, trips back home to Croatia usually mean accommodations at my family's homes or, in the off chance that we take some time to explore outside of our hometowns, renting an apartment from private individuals. But a fresh crop of luxury hotels in major Croatian destinations - like Dubrovnik - have me re-evaluating our entire game plan.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Excelsior

Hotel Excelsior in Dubrovnik isn't technically new - it's been operating since 1913 - but over its nearly 100-year history has had many new lives. It's now a modern and luxurious five-star retreat along Croatia's Adriatic Coast. There's a celebrity history here, too. Queen Elizabeth, Margaret Thatcher and Elizabeth Taylor have all stayed at Hotel Excelsior.

A sunset view from Abakus Piano Bar.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Excelsior

It's situated within walking distance of Dubrovnik's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and affords spectacular views of the town's sun-drenched stone walls and the Adriatic's turquoise water. There are five dining options, including a sushi spot - something I always crave after three weeks of "home cooking." Abakus Piano Bar is a local favorite and one of the best places in town to catch a sunset.

Just for fun - toasting to beautiful Dubrovnik on our last trip in 2010.

Travel in Style: The Art of Packing from Louis Vuitton

Looking for tips on how to pack your suitcase for summer travels? Check out the interactive app, The Art of Packing from Louis Vuitton, for some clever tricks.

Destinations: Shopping in Portland

Canoe, a boutique in Downtown Portland's West End

For years, the Pearl District has been the top spot for shopping in Portland. But it's the city's West End, an up-and-coming pocket of town just south of Burnside from the Pearl District, that caught my eye.

Bordered by Interstate 405 on the west and SW Broadway along its eastern edge, the West End was once a sketchy part of town occupied by little more than rundown buildings. Thanks to a recent renaissance of independent, one-of-a-kind boutiques and restaurants, it's now one of the best places for Portland shopping and dining.

Radish Underground

Radish Underground: Part of Radish Underground's charm is the passion that co-owner Gina Johnson Morris exudes for the West End. If you need recommendations on where to shop and what to eat in the area, stop in and strike up a conversation. She's full of great info! Plus, her shop is packed with the coolest clothes, accessories and gifts - many of which are made right in Portland.

Tender Loving Empire

Tender Loving Empire: What's really cool about Tender Loving Empire is that it's actually a combination of an independent record label, retail consignment shop and screen-printing studio. This business hybrid is typical of Portland, where anything local is revered. You could spend a lot of time at this Portland boutique, sifting through everything from kids' goods to books.

Pinkham Millinery

Pinkham Millinery: The moment I stepped into Pinkham Millinery, Kate Middleton's face flashed through my mind. Admittedly, this is a regular occurrence during my shopping excursions (I'm a little obsessed with her style), but this time around the feeling was all-consuming. Many of the shop's fascinators and hats - all handmade by owner Dayna Pinkham and ranging from modest to avant garde - evoked the Duchess of Cambridge's fashion sense in the best possible way.

Flora

Flora: Part apothecary, part gift store, Flora is an adorable West End boutique that carries things like Lucia soy candles, Marseille soap and handmade (in Portland, of course!) greeting cards. There's also a small collection of girly home goods that I was obsessing over, like the adorable teal chair in the photo above.

Canoe

Canoe: A very sleek and clean space, Canoe's products reflect its environment with a collection of simple, beautiful and functional objects designed to make every day life a bit easier (and prettier!). Here, items like decor pieces and kitchen utensils take a very modern approach. It's the type of store where you could find a million things you never knew you needed, until your visit. (Wooden monkey toy, anyone?)

Alder & Co.

Alder & Co.: This is a store where you'll want to touch everything you look at. Plush children's toys, French linen throws and leather braided bracelets, Alder & Co.'s products are all rich in texture and design. Its clothing collection is minimal, but full of quality and multifunctional pieces. I especially loved the cluster of brightly colored scarves and socks.

Frances May and Parallel are two more boutiques you can't miss while shopping in Portland.

More fashionable travel destinations:

• Where to shop in Austin
• Grace Bay Club in Turks and Caicos
• Fred Segal lending library at Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel