Summer and travel definitely go hand in hand. Who wouldn’t want to be sitting on a white sand beach sipping a tropical cocktail right about now? But let’s face it, life gets in the way sometimes and we can’t always have our picture perfect summer vacation.
Even if the next few months aren’t lined up with exotic getaways and weekend excursions, there’s no reason why you can’t set out for an amazing experience right in your own backyard. I’ve lived in Los Angeles most of my adult life and still find myself discovering new places, hidden gems and must try restaurants that I had no idea existed.
Recently, I’ve been inspired to celebrate the joys of being a tourist in my own town. Living in Southern California, we’re blessed to have miles and miles of beaches for sunbathing, biking on the boardwalk, playing volleyball with friends, and of course, the Pacific Ocean for a refreshing swim!
I took a walk down to the Redondo Beach Riviera for sunset over the weekend and realized how picturesque the South Bay truly is. Gaze to the right and see the famous King Harbor Marina. To the left, the rolling hills of Palos Verdes, a view that one could easily mistake for the French Riviera. Strolling along the sandy beach brought me back to summers on the Mayan Riviera in the Yucatan Peninsula. When I closed my eyes, I was instantly transported.
The next afternoon, I found myself at the Riviera Village Famer’s Market. Mingling with local artisans and purveyors of unique fruits and vegetables gave me a new appreciation for So Cal.
Chioggia beets, kumquats, rum cake, soy candles and organic coffee were just a few of the goodies I picked up along the way.
After picking up flowers and some fresh mint, it was time for a cocktail. And what better locale to enjoy a drink than a rooftop with an ocean view?
I can’t wait to venture out for more exploring this summer and beyond! There’s still so much to see, learn and taste in Los Angeles. Luckily, with the sand in my toes and the salty breeze in my hair, the world is my oyster. Hmm, oysters….where should I go to try the best mollusks? Let me know in the comments!
*Thank you LONG TALL SALLY for providing the stylish inspiration for Summer in the City!*
I’m so happy to announce that Style Bites, the TV series I wrote, directed, produced and hosted, is airing daily on The Lifestyle Network! Check it out at 6am/12pm/6pm/12am PST on DirectTV, Time Warner Cable and Bright House Networks. Full episodes are also available on YouTube.
I was blessed with the opportunity to create my own show back in January and it’s been a whirlwind ever since! I haven’t had a chance to recap my wonderful experience as it’s been an extremely busy few months! So, I’d like to share a bit about my adventure with you now…
Style Bites is based on this blog, Your Gal Kara: Your Glam, Affordable and Luxurious Resource.
Watch Highlights from Season 1 of Style Bites here!
As you all know, I am a true fashionista! I love fashion magazines, watching (and walking in) runway shows and learning about new designers and collections. And like a true style savvy gal, I love a fashionable deal! After all, I’ve been working in the fashion industry since I was a teen; from modeling, styling and producing shows to creating PR campaigns for new and renowned brands, I’ve done it all!
Some of you may not know that I come from a family of restaurateurs. The Thai women in my family have been in the restaurant business since I can remember, and food has always been at the center of my life. I love to cook and experiment with new spices and recipes. And my biggest love in life is to travel and explore world cuisines!
It seemed like a natural fit for me to create a show that combines my two loves, fashion and food! Style Bites grants exclusive access to the latest restaurants and hotspots, offers tips on how to achieve the latest trends and reveals coveted secrets from fashion and beauty insiders. "Style Bites is the ultimate bible on chic living," said Olivia de Jesus, Managing Director for ABS-CBN International North America.
Glam Guide breaks down the hottest fashion trends from the runway to the red carpet. Learn practical tips and discover affordable finds to help you live with flair. Featured guests include Halston Heritage, Liza Stewart Showroom, L.K. Bennett, IFBB Pro Gigi Amurao, Aerithe and Linea Pelle.
Designer Dish grants exclusive access to the industry’s top designers, exclusive events, fashion previews, and beauty hotspots. Indulge with an in-depth look at today’s most coveted style influencers. Featured guests include celebrity brow expert Kelley Baker, Traffic Women at the Beverly Center, butterflyzebra, Lou Razon, Calleen Cordero and Sew Down.
Style Bites also gives audiences a Taste of the Town, a premier table at must-try restaurants that guarantees to satisfy cravings for unique food finds and mind-blowing cuisine. Featured restaurants include supperclub LA, Crème Caramel LA, Crustacean Beverly Hills, White Rabbit Truck, Paiche and Cornell Winery.
And if just a taste is not enough, learn to Cook Like A Chef. Walk into the kitchens of renowned chefs and tastemakers as they share their most celebrated recipes that you can make at home. Featured chefs include Coreen Peralta of Tia Conchita Brands, Frankie Garcia of Local 1205, Nick Nishi of Hamakaze Sushi & Izakaya, Marius Blin of Esterel, Penpim Jittorn of Thailand Plaza and Carolos Tamazos and Lisa Crossman of Waterloo & City.
Check back here for behind the scenes photos from Style Bites season one, as well as full length videos of all 24 segments. I’d love to hear from you to see what you think of the show, so feel free to leave your comments below. And if you have a favorite designer, fashion tip or restaurant that you think I should feature in a future episode, let me know too!
Sex and the City fans will surely know the episode when Carrie attempts the flying trapeze. Ever since I saw Carrie struggle with doing a catch, I’d always been inspired to step outside my comfort zone and try the trapeze one day. This past July, my dream of flying through the air with the greatest of ease became a reality.
“I could never! I have the most terrible fear of heights!” – Charlotte
“Well, I do not…you’ve seen my shoes.” – Carrie
I’ve never been scared of heights. I enjoy roller coasters and I love an incredible view atop the highest skyscrapers. And not unlike Carrie Bradshaw, I live for my high heels. So I’m not quite sure what came over me when it was my turn to jump off the platform at TSNY Los Angeles.
The Trapeze School New York made its debut in the Big Apple in the summer of 2002. Shortly after, HBO featured the school in the popular Sex and the City episode “The Catch,” and the thrill-seeking phenomenon was born. It was only natural that the trend would hit the west coast, with TSNY Los Angeles opening an oceanfront facility on the Santa Monica Pier in 2008. With the beautiful Pacific Ocean on one side and the lively amusements of the pier all around, this is truly the perfect location.
After a brief 15-minute training session on land, it was time for my first flight. All around me were kids and teens looking cool as cucumbers as they awaited their turn. I knew I had to hold it together, but deep inside my heart was racing. Although I did gymnastics as a kid, I was terrified of getting up on the rig and jumping off. The sounds of kids screaming on nearby rollercoasters rang in my ear, only making me more nervous. My heart was pounding out of my chest as I climbed the metal ladder. My hands started to sweat while my breath quickened. When I reached the top and looked at the world below, I knew there was no turning back. With the guidance of a TSNY instructor, I put both hands on the heavy trapeze bar. In between long, deep breaths to calm my nerves, I anxiously listened to the instructor as she held on to my harness. My body was positioned with my weight forward to grasp the bar and my toes over the edge of the platform. All I could think was if she let go of the harness, I’d fall. I was told to listen to her exact cues. When she says “Ready,” I’m to bend my knees, and when she says “Hep,” I’m supposed to jump forward with my two feet together and swing through the air.
With the word “Ready” echoing in my ear, my mind suddenly went blank. When she said “Hep,” I completely froze. I shook my head apprehensively while the instructor said, “Why don’t we try that again. Take a deep breath, you’re going to do great.”
Before I know it, I’m holding on to the bar with all might and flying through the air faster than I’d imagined. When I reach the end of my first swing, I feel the sensation of free falling as I fly back towards the platform. I unconsciously let out a huge scream, as I lift my legs through the bar to perform a knee hang. Success. Now I’m to let go of my hands and extend my arms to simulate a catch. Success, again. Everyone around me cheers as I release from the bar and fall to the net below. My body is already sore and I’m out of breath…but I’m addicted. I want to fly again and again, and perfect my form with every swing.
After several practice flights that day, we end the class by attempting to do a catch. Only a few of us have received high enough praise from the instructors to try this release move; as I’m one of the four, I already feel a sense of accomplishment. But the challenge was before me, and I was more determined than ever to perfect this move.
As I climbed the ladder for my final flight, I realized that all my fears from the start of class had disappeared. Once I learned to let go, I had the most fun that I’ve had in a long time. As it turns out, flying on the trapeze was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. Not only did I conquer my fears, but I lived one of my greatest dreams, and I had a hell of a time doing it!
“When you’re young, your whole life is about the pursuit of fun. Then, you grow up and learn to be cautious. You could break a bone or a heart. You look before you leap and sometimes you don’t leap at all because there’s not always someone there to catch you. And in life, there’s no safety net. When did it stop being fun and start being scary?” – Carrie Bradshaw
**Thanks to Blake Brody In-Studio Footwear for the best shoes for the flying trapeze! Not only are these adorable and comfortable flats great for barre and pilates, but they were perfect for my circus adventure with TSNY Los Angeles. They provided incredible support and protected my feet from the safety net!
The summer travel season is officially upon us! But before we head to distant lands for some much deserved R&R, we need to do a little prep work – the most important being to pack a well stocked and versatile wardrobe!
Here are some tips to keep in mind when packing for your upcoming vacation:
1) Packclothing and accessories that are versatile. Jeans, nice shorts, skirts, and good fitting dresses (short or maxi) are great travel options that can be dressed up or down. Solid color tanks, tees and blouses are also smart choices.
2) Create multiple outfits by mixing and matching your items. For example, wear a dress with flat sandals for day and when night falls, swap them out for sexy heels and jewelry.
3) Select items that travel well, are breathable and don’t wrinkle easily. Cottons, knits, poly-blends, and silk jersey are best.
I recently shot a Style video for eHow.com, with some great tips on how to pick the best dresses for traveling. Watch it by clicking here.
Don’t these fab sandals just scream summer!? My latest GAL find are these bright, limited edition “Missoni Loves Havaianas” flip flops (Nordstrom, $70).
A stylish combination of two of my favorite brands, these are definitely on my summer wish list! Not only are these flip flops comfortable, water resistant, and super chic, but they’re an affordable designer shoe that won’t break the bank. Rock these iconic Missoni printed thongs with everything from a bikini and shorts to a maxi dress. They’d also be the perfect shoe to pack for your summer getaway! Look at the cute travel bag that comes with each purchase!
This GAL find is selling out fast, so scoop them up while you can! Happy Shopping!
GAL Travel – Mayan Calendar Draws Budget Tourists to Mexico in 2012
With the end of the 5,126 year-long Mayan calendar in December, tourists are flocking to the Riviera Maya region of Mexico! 2012 is definitely the time to travel to the Yucatán Peninsula, especially if you’re looking for an out of this world experience in one of the most beautiful locations on the planet.
The Riviera Maya is just south of Cancun and offers affordable but luxurious amenities, tranquil beaches, and rich cultural significance, making it a desired destination for travelers of all ages.
If you plan well enough in advance, there’s still time to find airfare deals online. On Travelocity.com, flying from Tuesday to Tuesday in mid-May (from Los Angeles) will cost either $459 (Aeromexico) or $510 (American Airlines) for a roundtrip ticket. That’s hundreds of dollars cheaper than buying an airplane ticket to other popular destinations such as Hawaii or Europe.
Hotels in the Riviera Maya have also decreased their rates dramatically, with hopes that tourists will return to the region despite the negative press the country has experienced in recent years. One of my favorite hotels is Hacienda Tres Rios, an eco-friendly resort set amongst a 326 acre nature park. For a limited time, this lavish resort is offering their lowest rate ever to families of 4 (with 2 children under 12). For just $135 per adult per night, a family can indulge with the Endless Luxury plan, including the suite, an all inclusive meal plan for all plus unlimited alcoholic beverages for the adults, and infinite access to the many tours and activities available on the property. This is truly an incredible bargain!
Fun and adventure for those that love the outdoors is endless in this area of Mexico. Crystal clear blue waters are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling, while the many underground caves and cenotes make for a unique day of hiking, swimming and exploring. The Riviera Maya is also known for zip line tours, the perfect option for thrill seeking travelers!
By far, the most enticing tourist attractions in the region are the remains of the Mayan culture. There is nothing like soaking in the rich history and magnitude of the Mayan ruins, up close and in person. The seaside Mayan city of Tulum is said to be one of the most well preserved ancient relics, with the cooling waters of the Caribbean Sea just steps away to keep you refreshed after a long day of walking. The ruins of Chichen Itza and Ek-Balam are also just a few hours away, and make for an ideal day trip.
Take my word for it that the Riviera Maya is a must visit destination, no matter if you go in 2012 or in the years to come. Whether you’re traveling solo or with you family, this tropical paradise has a little something for everyone. And the best part is, you won’t break the bank!
GAL Travel – St. Kitts & Nevis (Leeward Islands, Caribbean)
St. Kitts & Nevis are a set of tropical island gems in the West Indies. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea are the two sister islands, rich with history, culture, and lush vegetation. Locals, known as Kittitians, are warm, gracious, and welcoming. The beauty of the island and serene environment is intoxicating, and after a few days, you’ll be limin’ (Kittitian for “relaxing”) like a local! The delectable West Indian cuisine and native seafood are a food lover’s dream, while the sugar cane rum cocktails pack a powerful punch! If you want to discover a unique tropical oasis, St. Kitts & Nevis is a must visit vacation destination! Read More…
Located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s world renowned vineyards is the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country. Just 125 miles from Los Angeles, Santa Ynez features breathtaking views, intimate wineries, and charming inns, the perfect destination for wine lovers and foodies alike. In 2004, Santa Ynez Wine Country gained celebrity status when it was featured in the hit film, Sideways. Whether you’re a movie buff, a wine connoisseur, or simply looking to experience a beautiful part of Southern California, Santa Ynez is a must see! For a Glam, Affordable, and Luxurious take on the Santa Ynez Wine Country, here are my GAL Travel recommendations for your next trip!
Summer travel season is officially here! If you’re looking to find a great deal but don’t know where to start, read on to discover a fantastic new site that will certainly make searching for flights easier! And after you’ve saved so much money on airfare, discover which must have fashion and beauty items you’ll need to make your trip complete!
Travel Deals Made Easy
With all of the new travel search engines and websites available, it’s difficult to know which ones to trust. One of the most innovative to hit the web lately is Bing Travel, a portal dedicated to locating the best deals in travel. Not only can you search for flights, hotels, and packages, but you can compare hundreds of search engines at one time, eliminating the need to jump from site to site. But by far the coolest feature of Bing Travel is their Price Predictor tool, which tells you if you should buy now or wait, depending on whether the fares will increase, stay the same, or decrease. According to research, Bing’s Price Predictor tool is about 75% accurate, saving customers an average of $50 per transaction. Other nifty features of Bing Travel? Their Rate Indicator tool tells you if hotel rates are a good deal by comparing current and past rates. There’s also a fantastic travel blog, feature articles and photo gallery, definitely worth checking out!
Functional Fashion
Deciding what to pack for vacation is never easy. How many outfits will I need and for what occasions? For those that want to keep it light, opt for a convertible dress, many of which can be worn 8 ways or more. These brilliant designs are versatile, comfortable, fashionable, and the perfect neutral palette to accessorize with shoes and jewelry. Wear a convertible dress like this GAL find by Mossimo (Target, $23.99), as a cover up when you’re lounging poolside and then as a sexy halter dress for night. Some styles can even be worn as skirts like this GAL find by Elan (Amazon, $32.99), which would look great paired with a basic or embellished tank. The possibilities are truly endless! Not only are these dresses fashionable, but they’re practical as they take up little space and can be worn so many different ways. Once you have your convertible dress, all that’s left to pack are a couple pairs of shoes, jewelry, a few other basics, and you’re good to go! This is one fashion item that every savvy traveler should own!
Travel Sized Beauty
If you can’t live without your daily moisturizer or luxury shampoo while on vacation, but don’t want to lug around a full size version of your favorite product, then 3floz.com is for you! This genius website offers more than 50 well known companies’ hair, skin, and body products in TSA approved 3 oz. packages, the perfect size for your carry-on luggage! From Alterna to Ole Henriksen, you’ll find all your favorites in one convenient place. Select as many travel sized items as you want for your customized carry-on, or purchase a kit from some of the most coveted beauty brands in the business. With products from women, men, and baby starting at $5, the whole family can stock up on essential beauty items without breaking the bank!
Planning a vacation on a budget can be a daunting task, especially when it seems that airfare and hotel prices are continuously on the rise. One of the best parts about getting away is relaxing, whether it’s by the pool, at the spa, or by taking in the natural beauty of the destination. In order to unwind on a dime, sometimes you need to think outside the box. Ever think to travel to Colorado in the off season? Think Sedona is the only place for pure relaxation in Arizona? As your GAL resource, I found the following travel steals that will let you rest easy when it comes to booking your next getaway. Whether you desire a quick trip or a weeklong retreat, these undiscovered gems won’t put a damper on your wallet!
Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort & Spa (Avon, Colorado)
Colorado is often thought of as a winter destination, but the spring and summer months offer travelers the same lush accommodations and beautiful surroundings at a more reasonable price. The “Spring Renewal Package” at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort & Spa is an ideal way to enjoy an affordable stay at one of the premiere properties in the heart of the Vail Valley. For rates starting at $169/night, visitors will enjoy lodging at the award winning resort, plus your choice of a 50 minute Swedish massage or a 45 minute custom facial at Allegria Spa, named one of Colorado’s Best Spas (a $145 value). Whether travelling solo or with your significant other, there are plenty of outdoor activities to satisfy your adventurous side. From hiking, biking, and river rafting, to dipping in one of the five whirlpools beneath a mountain waterfall, you’ll feel renewed while taking in the natural beauty of your surroundings. For foodies, enjoy small plates and organic local wines at 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill. And for a nostalgic twist, resort guests can enjoy a complimentary s’mores happy hour from 4-5p at the outdoor fire pit, including handmade marshmallows with flavors ranging from M&M to Grand Marnier! With no minimum stay required, the “Spring Renewal Package” is available from April 9 – June 16, 2011. To make a reservation, visit www.parkhyattbeavercreek.com or call 866-471-7658.
Allegria Spa at Park Hyatt Beaver Creek
Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club (Scottsdale, Arizona)
If you’ve never thought of visiting Arizona for an invigorating wellness retreat, the “Spring Escape Deal” at the Scottsdale Resort Club will definitely change your mind. The Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club is a family owned and operated establishment offering breathtaking views and unsurpassed recreational facilities. The “Spring Escape Deal” starts at just $89/night, and includes accommodations for two in one of the resorts comfortable guestrooms, complimentary continental breakfast, a $25 restaurant/bar credit, 10% off at the award winning Eurasia Spa, plus free access to the private athletic club. With 11 tennis courts, 2 levels of fitness studios and unlimited access to all the fitness classes you can imagine, guests will feel rejuvenated after experiencing all the resort has to offer. Start your day with a pilates or spinning class, and then enjoy an afternoon in the sun with a game of tennis on the championship hard courts (Top 50 Tennis Resorts in Tennis Magazine). To unwind after a day of exercise, take a refreshing plunge in to one of the resort’s 3 swimming pools, or enjoy a calming aromatherapy massage at the Eurasia Spa. The possibilities are endless at this renowned Scottsdale resort! The “Spring Escape Deal” is available from April 5 – June 1, 2011. For more information, visit www.scottsdaleresortandathleticclub.com or call 866-733-9564.
Center Court at Scottsdale Resort & Athletic Club
Las Villas Hotel & Spa at Estrella Del Mar (Mazatlan, Mexico)
Located on a 3.5 mile pristine white sand beach, Las Villas Hotel & Spa at Estrella Del Mar is truly an undiscovered gem on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Opened in June 2010, Las Villas offers luxurious accommodations and world class amenities in a beach town rich with Mexican history and tradition. Their Garden View Room “Vacation Package” is just $212/person, and includes lodging for 4 days/3nights, free transportation to/from the airport, welcome margaritas and daily breakfast for two. Garden view rooms are spacious, featuring oversized bathrooms, marble flooring, rain shower heads, wet/mini bars and a private balcony. Upon arrival to the resort, guests will receive a personally guided tour of the 816 acre estate, vibrant floral gardens, private beach, spa, and the most unique attraction of the property, the Turtle Preserve & Sanctuary. The Turtle Preserve is the largest of its type in Mexico, giving visitors the opportunity to view and interact with the incredible sea creatures. The Preserve hatches, nurtures, and releases more than 30,000 baby sea turtles each year! In addition to this wonderment, Estrella Del Mar boasts a gorgeous seaside golf course that is fully accessible to guests of Las Villas. And if you’re looking for more beachfront fun, try horseback riding in the sand followed by a swim in the stunning invisible edge pool. Need another reason to visit Las Villas? The extremely affordable full service spa, with massages and facials starting at just $35. If that’s not unwinding on a dime, I don’t know what is! For more information, visit http://www.mazatlanhotellasvillas.com/.
Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Golf Course at Estrella Del Mar
I can’t wait to venture out for more exploring this summer and beyond! There’s still so much to see, learn and taste in Los Angeles. Luckily, with the sand in my toes and the salty breeze in my hair, the world is my oyster. Hmm, oysters….where should I go to try the best mollusks? Let me know in the comments! 
Kara Birkenstock 