Fortunately, my family decided to revive our annual Secret Santa gift exchange for the adults, which meant I only had to buy one present for an adult. So, I gifted the sibling, whose name I pulled, a SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker so they can enjoy seltzer water whenever they want (which is often). As for me, I was thrilled to receive the Tatcha Prime & Glow Trio from my holiday wish list. It’s going to be a shiny year!

🛍️ Latest Shopping: Swimsuits

Friends. True friends are hard to find. The ones that would tap you gently on your shoulder and tell you to turn your pantyhose inside out to avoid the swishing sound your thighs make as you walk. They also know when to withhold criticism to protect your joy, like when you wore a vintage Body Glove swimsuit on vacation, and they told you that you looked like a young Kris Jenner. But, as they get older, they may become forgetful and one day fondly recall said trip by saying, “Remember that time you wore that vintage Body Glove swimsuit, and asked me how you looked? and I said, ‘Like Bruce Jenner trying on his wife’s clothes?’”

As much as I love going to the beach, I dread shopping for swimsuits. My sister recently pointed out that I have been vacationing in the same swimsuit for almost eight years now (hey, when you find the one, you stick with it). It took me several bad shopping experiences to figure out which swimsuit styles flatter my body shape. I also discovered through many try-on sessions the materials and designs that accentuate my best features and downplay my less favorable ones (recycled plastic is a big no-no). While mirrors are helpful, pictures are even better for seeing how you look in a swimsuit. It’s better to take a picture of yourself in the privacy of your own home to see how you truly look in the suit, rather than finding out from the pictures your friends tag you in on social media.

For me, ‘the one’ is a one-piece swimsuit with the following features:

1. Ruching or a tummy-minimizing pattern.

2. Good cup support (because I can’t pull off braless wonder as well as I did in my 20s).

3. Draws attention to my assets (my back and legs).

4. And timeless (because I plan to wear it forever).

This means that as crazy as I am about the popcorn swimsuits at Hunza G, Bond-Eye, and Mara Hoffman, if I want to avoid the fitting room blues, I need to shop Tory Burch, Lauren Ralph Lauren, Cupshe, La Blanca, and Tommy Bahama. And my friends can tell me the truth when I ask: “How do I look?”

(Yes, I have had a conversation with my friend about getting her memory checked, but she recalls it differently).

👙 8 Steps to Resetting Your Swimsuit Body

1. Eat nothing between meals.

2. Eat nothing after 3 pm.

3. Eat no free fats.

4. Eat no form of animal products.

5. Eat more raw food.

6. Eat fewer varieties at each meal (3-4).

7. Eat no concentrated (refined) foods.

8. Exercise moderately after each meal.

It’s January, and although we may deny it, we all make New Year's resolutions. I personally don’t see any harm in setting goals for the new year. This year, I have two; to permanently change my eating habits and adopt a plant-based diet.

Back in January 2020, I came across the above-listed eight steps in this article on the Uchee Pines Institute website, which explains how to lower your body’s recognized set point for weight and cholesterol. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try. By March of that year, I had successfully lost 13 pounds, and I may have lost 13 more, had the city not gone into lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. One morning, I walked into the kitchen and saw a bunch of overripe bananas on the counter, and decided to make banana bread. And thus endeth the journey to lower my set point.

However, despite how terribly I’ve eaten since then, I’ve only regained eight pounds. So this January, I’m restarting this plan with the hope of sticking with it until I get to my true set point. I want to make another goal of updating my progress here, but don’t hold me to it.

If your New Year resolutions include losing weight or getting healthy overall, check out the Counseling Sheets on the Uchee Pines website. So much good information!

📚 What I’m Reading

I got into British cozy murder mysteries last year. Thanks to Acorn and Britbox! Currently, I’m reading The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman. According to the back cover:

The investigations of four elderly – and mostly amateur – sleuths as they put their skills together to solve crimes and bring justice to the Cooper Chase Retirement Village and beyond.

Think Aurora Teagarden Mysteries, but with Septuagenarians. This is the kind of book I want to take to read at the beach. Nothing too soul-stirring or emotional. It’s also the kind of book I want to read in January (it’s just as enjoyable, read from under a Sherpa blanket on a snowy evening).

I found the canvas bag I want to take on my next beach vacation, and I found it while randomly scrolling through the Instagram account of a Spanish influencer. It gives the Little Liffner Stripe Tote look for less, and it’s canvas like the A.P.C. Diane Canvas Tote that I’ve been eyeing on Gilt. Unfortunately, it’s no longer available on the brand’s website, so I ordered it from an online shop that I am now a little wary about and I’m really glad I used PayPal for this transaction. It remains to be seen whether I receive this bag. If it arrives, I’ll share the link, so bookmark this post for an update.

When I wasn’t stalking Spanish influencers on Instagram, I was filling my Amazon cart with nearly every product recommended by Dr. Julian Sass, sunscreen specialist and Head of Research and Development at 4.5.6. Skin.

I stumbled upon Julian’s website this week on my never-ending quest for sunscreen for Melanin-rich skin. Julian has personally tested hundreds of sunscreens and created an SPF database on his website Skin by Scamander14. What got me excited was that he and I share the same skin phototype (Fitzpatrick Scale 5/6). So I’ve decided to try some of his favorite products and will report on my experience after my next beach trip. Julian’s recommendations, however, are not exclusive to Melanin-rich skin. You can check them out here.

🛍️ Latest Shopping

I once read a feature on a now-defunct blog about a photographer who packed only white gauzy mini-dresses for her beach trips. She wore them over her swimsuits as cover-ups, for apres-sun drinks, and in the evenings for dinner. She referred to them as her “angel dresses.” Even though I read this article many years ago, it has always stayed with me as the epitome of effortless beach chic.

I’m a strong believer in having a wardrobe formula when packing for a beach vacation - it makes packing a breeze! It also makes spontaneous trips more achievable. I’m already aware of what I’m going to be putting in my suitcase - the items of clothing that’ll enable me to dress for function and for my own enjoyment.

My go-to beach outfit formula is denim shorts paired with a tank top or tee that doubles as a swimsuit cover-up. Flip-flops or slides for walking on hot sand and a wide-brim hat or visor to protect my face from the sun. I like to keep my clothes simple so I can experiment with different shoes and accessories.

Right now, on my wishlist are the Rianna Palm Straw Hat (pictured top) and the Harper Hand-Woven Striped Brim Hat (pictured above), both from Brunna.co.

I also like this oversized woven hand fan, but it probably won’t fit in my carry-on.

For evenings, I pack slip dresses (as they take up no room at all in my luggage and don’t require ironing). However, sometimes I’ll pack a billowy dress if I really like it and don’t mind spending the 15-20 minutes needed to get the wrinkles out. Take the Monty Cotton Bubble Dress pictured above for example (See similar at Modern Citizen). I used to pair my dresses with heeled sandals or mules. Lately, though, I’ve been leaving the sandals at home in favor of flip-flops. Long live the trend!

Finally, I like to add a third piece (to use a fashion term) to elevate my basics. Usually, it’s a pair of printed dress shorts or palazzos. Sometimes it’s a white button-down or a convertible sarong. My whole goal when planning my beach wardrobe is for it to be effortless and chic, and I’ve found a formula that works.

Do you have a formula for looking effortlessly chic on your beach vacation? Please share in the comments.

🎁 In Case You Missed It

The 2023 Hammock Society Holiday Gift Guide is here! Share it with everyone who is shopping for you this holiday season!

SHOP THE GUIDE

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – holiday gift guide season!

I’ve checked out every gift guide that has landed in my inbox and mailbox this month, and the beach-lover categories are pretty disappointing - except for this Salt Marsh Rose Candle from DS & Durga. This is worthy of a bookmark.

So, I’ve put together a list of my favorite things (like Oprah, but without the hype). These are the items in my beach bag that bring me comfort and joy, as well as the bag itself. Consider this the list to forward to everyone who might be shopping for you this year!

If you have your own recommendations, please leave them in the comments.

An Upgraded Lip Balm

• Rouge Hermes Refillable Lip Care Balm ($75) - This is something no one buys for themselves. The clear one is the best.

• Pat McGrath Lip Fetish Sheer Colour Balm ($39) - Just as nice as the Hermes, but without the chic orange bag.

• Glossier Balm Dotcom’s “beachy and untinted” Coconut ($14) - I wore this lip balm all summer and loved it. Make it a set!

The Glow-Up

• Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist ($22-$49) - This was the product I didn’t know I needed until a friend sprayed some on my face last summer. Now, it’s my go-to for a perfect dewy glow. I recommend The Holiday Value Set.

Ice-Cold Beverage Bliss

• Corkcicle Gray Malin Canteen ($31.96) - The Corkcicle Canteen keeps a full bottle of wine (or water) ice-cold for 25 hours. Personalize it!

Sun Protection

• Bluestone Sunshields - Shorty Lux ($60) - A few years ago, a dermatologist recommended these to me. Although the Full Lux is not my preference because it attracts too much attention (to my liking anyway), I highly recommend the Shorty Lux. Additionally, there is a visor option that’s almost half the price of the Alo Yoga Visor.

Beach-Ready Tech Accessories

• XouXou Silicone iPhone Necklace and Airpods Case ($39-$78) - My Bandolier Crossbody iPhone Case has been one of my most favored purchases to date. I use it every day, and I highly recommend it as a gift. Lately, I have been eyeing the XouXou Silicone iPhone Necklaces and Airpods cases (I’m partial to the Baby Blue and Gold combo) for use specifically when I travel to the beach.

Ultimate Comfort

• Crocs Classic Clogs ($50) - I didn’t have much of an opinion on Crocs until my mother received a pair of them as a gift last Christmas. They were too big for her feet. Perfectly sized for mine, and I haven’t taken them off since. If I didn’t already own a few pairs of APL Lusso Slides, I would be packing these on my next beach vacation.

A Covetable Beach Towel or Blanket

• Cabo Mexican Blanket ($37) - Ever since I saw that photo of Selena Gomez, I’ve been wanting this blanket in Rustic Green (ahem!).

• Baina Roman Pool Towel ($110) - For aesthetic beach-goers - it’s generated a lot of knock-offs, because let’s face it, everyone wants one! Make it a set, or pair it with other items from the “For Days by the Ocean” collection to make a practical yet luxurious gift.

A Good Beach Read

• Waterproof Kindle Paperwhite ($139) - I’m still not quite ready to switch to an e-reader, but the waterproof Kindle Paperwhite is certainly tempting me. Pair it with a Kindle Unlimited Subscription and a book sleeve ($21) for a thoughtful gift.

A Non-basic Beach Bag

• Little Liffner Stripe Tote White ($295) - I like a beach bag that I can use throughout my whole vacation - beach days, sightseeing, city explorations, and back to the beach again. This bag fits the bill. It goes with everything in my beach wardrobe, and it’s super chic!

If you are feeling generous, sharing this newsletter with someone who would appreciate it would be the best gift that I could receive. Wishing you all a very happy holiday shopping season!

Share THE HAMMOCK SOCIETY

I’m in the market for a big canvas tote or weekender bag to use as a carry-on travel bag - something that says “I’m headed to the beach” without shouting it.

Right now I’m eyeing the Catalina Deluxe Tote from Lo & Sons. It’s almost the perfect carry-on slash beach bag. It has a trolley sleeve, a laptop sleeve, an adjustable crossbody strap, two inner pockets, a key clip, a drop bottom for sandals (or wet swimsuits) - and it’s on sale! But, I feel like it’s unfinished. Maybe it needs an “Old Celine” monogram. I can’t quite put my finger on it.

BUY: Lo & Sons: Catalina Deluxe Tote ($143.50)

This one from Moment would make a nice workcation tote. It reminds me of the Lands End 5-Pocket Canvas Tote, but it doesn’t scream ‘New England Seaside’.

BUY: Moment MTW Tote Bag ($89.99)

Speaking of… I’ve had the J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote on my list of favorites for ages. Even though it doesn’t fit the criteria, I’m still adding it here because it’s a nice canvas travel bag, and it’s on sale.

BUY: J.Crew Weekender Montauk Tote ($119.00)

This one is from the Australian brand July fills the void left by the Moment tote. It’s a little bigger, with a zipped pocket and a trolley sleeve. It also comes in black canvas. If I can’t find a similar bag with a drop bottom, I’ll probably buy this one.

BUY: July Large Everyday Tote Bag ($145.00)

I also love this pricey one from Toteme. It looks a lot like that Loewe bag! But, alas, she does not take expensive designer bags to the seaside.

🛍️ THIS WEEK’S PICKS

The Zara Home Travel Bags Collection by Saint Lazare had my eye for a while - some of the items are now on sale, so I was tempted to fill my cart but had to pause and ask myself, "Do I really need this?"

SHOP: Zara Home Vacaciones Supplies and Accessories Collection

I decided I really wanted this red emergency bag for my meds and first aid items. This reminded me of a question a friend asked last year: “Why do you pack a first aid kit?” Here’s why: A few weeks ago, I was dining with my sister at the rooftop restaurant Terraza on Hallandale Beach, FL. I was enjoying a strip steak with homemade smoked chimichurri and truffle fries when suddenly, I had difficulty swallowing. I almost choked, twice. I didn’t panic. I knew it was an allergy attack. I’m allergic to shellfish and some other stuff. I immediately reached into my first aid kit and took a Zyrtec. I had stronger meds and an Epi-pen if it wasn’t enough, but luckily, it was. We enjoyed the rest of the evening and skipped the trip to the ER.

Here are the items I carry in my first aid kit:

• Allergy medications (over-the-counter and prescribed)

• Cold medications

• Nasal Spray

• Zinc

• An assortment of adhesive bandages

• Astringent wipes

• Over-the-counter pain medicine

• Over-the-counter diarrhea medicine

• Antacid and charcoal caps

• Aloe Vera

• Bug Bite

• Powdered IV Multiplier or Pediasure Packets

• Other samples I get from my allergist

📚 WHAT I’M READING

I’ve been reading a bunch of Substacks lately, mainly ones authored by women with writing styles that I can relate to. I’ve subscribed to a few of them and plugged them into my Recommendations section. Drop me a line if there’s a Substack you think I should check out.

• Earl Earl by Laurel Pantin

• Hi Everyone with Hillary Kerr

• Things Worth Knowing with Farrah Storr

🏖️ WISH YOU WERE HERE

Me, post-allergy attack - Hallandale Beach, Florida.

I truly appreciate all of you who are subscribed to this newsletter! It has been an educational journey transitioning from a blog to a newsletter. One of the important lessons I learned was that I cannot maintain a strict, weekly, or bi-weekly schedule. I want to make sure I’m delivering the best content to you, so I have decided to send out this newsletter on an occasional basis. If I’m uncovering great sales or travel deals, I’ll send it out more often. Otherwise, I’ll only send it when I’m pleased with the content I have to share.

Please bear with me as I sort everything out, and feel free to provide feedback.

Last issue, I asked for Bleisure fashion hacks in the comments. I did not receive any online comments. I did get asked by one of my sisters “What’s Bleisure?”, and one of my colleagues giggled as she pointed out that the dress code clearly states “No flip-flops.”

I had also promised to let you in on what I had packed for this trip in this edition. Unfortunately, due to a forecast of a 60-70% chance of rain over the days of the trip, I decided not to pack any beachwear, apart from one swimsuit. To my surprise, it turned out to be gloriously sunny with temperatures reaching 88+ degrees Fahrenheit each day.

Lamenting about this to a colleague, she said that I’d read the forecast all wrong. That in Florida, a 60-70% chance of rain, means a 60-70% chance of rain for 15 minutes. So now we know!

🛍️ THIS WEEK’S PICKS

For years I did not wear sunscreen to the beach, relying on my built-in SPF 13 melanin. But when I started to notice pre-mature wrinkles in my early 30s, I realized I had to wear it, even though it made me look like the muse for Scream. Oil-based, water-based, it didn’t matter, they all left a ghastly white cast. Tomorrow’s children of color will never know what we went through! Finally, brands have started to look into what melanin-rich people need in sunscreen, and now there are so many choices that I got overwhelmed shopping for one.

I ended up purchasing a tiny (1 oz) bottle of Mele’s No Shade Sunscreen Oil online at Target. I had hoped to review it after my trip. Unfortunately, what arrived was a 5 oz bottle of Mele’s Refresh Toner. So, I ended up using my Aveeno SPF 30 Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen on my trip. It leaves a cast, but it’s less obvious if you cover it with makeup.

🏖️ WISH YOU WERE HERE

Last week, I went to the Diplomat Resort for a Bleisure trip. Three days of business, two days of leisure. It ended up being only one day of leisure because I missed my outbound flight and ended up losing a day.

I could not wait to return to the Diplomat after spending three blissful days there in June of 2021.

CONTINUE READING

In June of 2021, while still more-or-less in the middle of a global pandemic, I spent three blissful days at the Diplomat Beach Resort & Spa. Last week, I checked in again for a work meeting.

Back in 2021, I blogged about my stay. I started my recap with this paragraph:

“This is a very nice resort,” my Uber driver said as he pulled up to the Diplomat’s Porte-cochere. But, as I hauled my bags up the stairs after waiting in vain for a bellhop, I wasn’t inclined to believe him. When I entered the spacious lobby, though, my hope was rekindled. I had to pause for a moment to take it all in.

When I arrived at the Diplomat last week, I again waited in vain for a bellhop. They just don’t exist at this property. After lugging my bags up the stairs, I stood once again in awe of the beautiful lobby. I learned during my stay that the palm trees will be removed and replaced by a variety of tropical plants when the property undergoes renovations in the next year. I will miss them, so I’ve posted the above photo of the lobby for posterity.

This time around, I got a room with a balcony. It truly made a difference. Even though the room was smaller, was missing robes and slippers, and had obvious signs of wear and tear, I was delighted to have it. However, I spent the majority of my short stay in a meeting room on the 33rd floor. The room had sunrise and sunset balconies, and views as far as the eye could see. Yet, it was designed so that they weren’t distracting. It was a productive meeting, but on that first day, I was looking forward to lunch.

When I visited in 2021, the only restaurant that was open was the beachfront casual-dining restaurant Playa. During my stay last week, every restaurant was open. I was spoiled for choice. Unfortunately, I chose Playa. I was thrilled to see that the three Mahi-Mahi Fish Tacos were still on the menu. My mouth watered as I ordered them, remembering the fresh, crisp, tasty treat that I had eaten for two days straight back then (photo left). However, what I received (photo right) was the opposite of tasty. I guess the saying is true: you can’t go home again. Fortunately, the other restaurants on the property had plenty of delicious culinary delights, so I could create new memories. One, in particular, was a key lime pie from Counterpoint Cafe that was worth the calories.

On the morning of my only leisure day, I awoke to a beautiful sunrise. I was so happy that I had packed a swimsuit. In less than an hour, I was on the beach jumping waves like a kid again. And quoting a friend I made on the same beach back in 2021, “I came here for this!”

THE HAMMOCK SOCIETY TRAVEL TIP

The Diplomat is within walking distance of a Walmart Supercenter. If you’re staying for more than two days, make that your first stop to save on water and snacks.

I’m headed to the beach later this month. To one of my favorite beach destinations, Hollywood, Florida, and one of my favorite beach resorts, The Diplomat Beach Resort. This time around, however, it’s not just for fun; I will be there for work too. Specifically, three days of work and two days of leisure. So I dug out this packing list from Town and Country, which has been a favorite go-to of mine when packing for Bleisure trips. However, when I laid out my clothes, I realized that neither my work clothes nor my beach clothes fit the “smart casual” dress code of the program. What could I do? I certainly didn’t want to shop for a whole new wardrobe. I decided then to take a tip from the fashion pages and pair my business casual work outfits with flip-flops. Ideally, a pair of Beach Rubber Flip-Flops from The Row if I’m going to pull off NYC Fashionista. Instead, I opted for the more budget-friendly Slim Square Toe Flip-Flops from Havaianas.

🛍️ THIS WEEK’S PICKS

✈️ BOOK YOUR BEACH

Travel To Cuba on Delta Airlines for $241.00 Round Trip if booked for travel from Miami to Havana between September 27th and October 3rd. Book Here!

💭 CURATE WITH ME

What is your favorite beach Bleisure fashion hack?

Reply in the comments!

I’ll share them in the next issue, along with what I’m packing for my trip.

A friend shared this video with me. It’s the designer of Chaste Wear modeling her swimdress. If you look closely in the video, she’s not just wearing a dress, she’s wearing leggings too. Some years ago, a friend gifted me a swimsuit. It was a tankini with a skirt that was supposed to hide your thighs, but it barely covered my butt. The one and only time I wore that suit was in the pool at the Fairmont Southampton in Bermuda. When I jumped into the water, it felt like I still had my pool towel wrapped around my waist. Had I been alone in the pool, I would’ve taken it off and swam in my underwear.

However, I really like this dress. It has pockets! I also like the print. I’m considering getting one for my upcoming beach trip, but there’s no way I’m getting into the water with all that fabric. I don’t have her swimming skills.

🛍️ THIS WEEK’S PICKS

This summer the classic L.L. Bean Boat and Tote made a major comeback with the fashion set. The one pictured above, styled by Sarah Clary and modeled by Ashley Sargent Price, got my attention. I think it looks both high-end and stylish. If you want to recreate this bag, the font is Times Bold.

W Magazine has a great article on the “enduring appeal” of this iconic bag.

🏷️ DESIGNER SANDALS SALE

Get 25% off sandals at Labucq with code: endless-summer. I finally pulled the lever on these black platform floaties.

Dear Francis is having a sitewide sale for a limited time only. Enjoy 20% off with code DF20.

Ancient Greek is also having a sale on sandals that’s worth a look.

📚 WHAT I’M READING

It’s the perfect time to stock up on your beach reads! Barnes & Noble’s Book Haul is Back! 50% off hundreds of Hardcovers and more. I was excited to see that the audiobook version of Blue Mind (a book I’ve wanted to read for a few years now) is totally free, so I’m giving it a listen. I may end up buying the paperback copy too. We’ll see how it goes.

Blue Mind: The Surprising Science That Shows How Being Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You Happier, Healthier, More Connected, and Better at What You Do - by Wallace J. Nichols

Before I got sick, however, I went shopping with a friend for beach clothes. We are both going to the beach this fall. Though separately. She took me to a popular outlet mall filled with high-end stores with racks and racks of cut-out dresses and strings. “What do you think of this?” she asked, holding up a hanger of strings. “It’s not for me.” When I held up a white linen shirt dress by Lauren Ralph Lauren, she snatched it out of my hands and hung it back up. “That’s too basic,” she said, before traipsing off to examine another rack of cut-outs and strings. And now I know who I am at the beach: a basic chick.

🛍️ THIS WEEK’S PICKS

This J.Crew Woven Market Tote reminds me of the Amazon knockoff all the women's fashion publications were promoting last month. If I had room in my wardrobe for another beach bag, I’d buy the Amazon version because of its low cost-per-wear. But, the J.Crew version is significantly more refined.

Summer might be winding down around here, but my beach plans are just starting to heat up. I have my eye on these pieces from AMO Denim. I’m seriously hoping for a sample sale soon.

I’m also surprisingly attracted to this Free People version of the popular coastal sweater by Arket Market. I actually prefer this colorway.

✈️ BOOK YOUR BEACH

Check out all the deals in the Bahamas right now. I almost booked the weekend cruise on Margaritaville-At-Sea as it departs from West Palm Beach and I will be in the area for work next month. Unfortunately, I had a scheduling issue. Also, the cruise agent telling me that I couldn’t get a balcony cabin because it’s an older ship didn’t help either.

https://www.bahamas.com/deals-packages

📚 WHAT I’M READING

Dante at the Beach - The New York Times - This abstract piece from the New York Times circa 2015 speaks to me in a way that I have never experienced with any other work. 😂

America’s Underrated Beaches, Summer Edition - Fifty Grande

AI can help you plan your next trip—if you know how to ask. - National Geographic

See You Next Week!

I spent the last week in Saratoga Springs, NY. Two of those days were spent at the Saratoga Racecourse. I was there for work, running an incentive event for a well-known company. I got to experience both the posh and the mundane of the racecourse. From hanging in the clubhouse with the high rollers to becoming the impromptu photographer for women posing in front of the Moet & Chandon step and repeat that was too close to my booth.

What I found most interesting was that there were frequent reminders of the beach at the racecourse.

One of my dreams is to one day visit Corona Island. Sit on a beach chair on the sand and kick it with Snoop. Fo shizzle.

But back at the races - my booth was at the entrance, so I got a great look at all the outfits and hats on display. Wondering what women wear to mid-week horse races in upstate NY? Nap dresses!

I spotted this particular one from Hill House in a variety of colors and patterns.

And hats, of course! I was actually surprised by the number of women wearing hats. This wasn’t Preakness or the Kentucky Derby, but there they were: picture hats, fedoras, fascinators, and kiss-me-quick bonnets.

I had to give a hand to the men and women who really took the dress code seriously and looked like they belonged in a scene of a British cozy murder mystery.

🛍️ THIS WEEK’S PICKS

Here are the hats I would wear to the races (if I weren’t there for work). They would be the same hats that I would wear to the beach, because why buy two types of hats? Besides, I look good in a fedora and this packable straw hat by Peter Beaton is just too cool.

💰 BOOK YOUR BEACH DEALS

Andaz Bali - 5th Night Free* – Rates from $260/nt
For a limited time, stay five nights but only pay for four.
*Valid for travel through Dec 22, 2023. Blackout dates may apply.

BOOK ON LUXURY LINK

• Avelo Airlines this week announced nonstop service between Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) – and Puerto Rico’s San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) beginning on November 15, 2023. Introductory one-way fares between HVN and SJU start at $99. Customers can make reservations at AveloAir.com.

• When flying from Orlando to North Eleuthera in the Bahamas on Silver Airways, travelers can unlock exclusive 15% savings at Pink Sands Resorts that can be applied to stays of two nights or longer with promotion code “Silver.” One-way flights begin as low as $99. Book at pinksandsresort.com/exclusive-offers/

• The Cove at Eleuthera in The Bahamas is offering a special “Tranquility Under the Stars” package that includes a minimum two-night stay in an oceanfront room, a personal telescope with constellation maps, and a private night-time yoga session for two. The travel window is now through August 21st. Book at https://thecoveeleuthera.com/offers/bahamas-vacation-packages-tranquility-under-the-stars/

• Airfare Watchdog has a slew of cheap weekend fares for late summer and early fall. Book your beach weekend now!

📸🖼😍 SEE YOU NEXT WEEK!

I recently tried Readow.ai, a service that provides book recommendations powered by AI, to find my next beach read. What can go wrong? All I had to do was type in a book title, an author, or a genre that I love, and voila! “Sister Souljah? Seriously?”

If you’re in search of the perfect book to take with you on your next beach getaway, this NPR podcast provides guidance on how to find books that you’ll love (from a real person, not a robot). Personally, I’m not a fan of podcasts (unless I can listen at double speed), so I’ve linked the transcript down below.

🛍️ THIS WEEK’S PICKS

Forget Barbie pink, green is the color I’m loving this summer. I agree with David Tutera that few people look good in green, but I still really like it in accessories. Nail polish is an accessory, right?

✂️ SALE PICKS

These stretch linen summer pieces from Sweaty Betty are perfect for your next beach vacay, and they’re on sale!

🌊 BOOK YOUR BEACH

Book a Sea Terrace room on Virgin’s Scarlet Lady sailing from Miami on August 23rd for only $785 per person: all-inclusive, no tipping, and free WiFi. This is the cabin with the Insta-famous red hammocks. Don’t miss out! I may even see you there.

BOOK ON CRUISE PLUM

📚 WHAT I’M READING

Find books you'll love - NPR

What does your beach towel say about you? - Financial Times

It's never too late to become a strong swimmer. Here's how to start - NPR

Stop trying to have the perfect vacation. You’re ruining everyone else’s - Vox

Did you know Amazon has a luxury division? Me, either! I only found out about this from one of the many Prime Day sales emails I received last week. What I found more interesting in those emails though was this $27 straw handbag by Ayliss, which was promoted by both Vogue and another high-end women’s fashion magazine. Intrigued, I was, but I ended up buying this now-sold-out linen knit tote bag from Onia Swim (pictured). I got it in black since I already own beach bags in a variety of colors, and I felt that black was a color that I could use in the city as well.

🛍️ THIS WEEK’S PICKS

I’ve been tracking the price of the Scholl x ISSIMO Pescura sandals since I first learned about the collaboration. I haven’t had any luck finding them on sale yet, though. However, I can still get the look with either the original version, which sells for $120, at Nordstrom, or I can go for the low-cost-per-wear option at Macy’s, which is currently on sale for $27. But, I really like the black heel. I think it would pair well with a floaty black summer dress like this Everlane Poplin Caftan or this convertible bandeau dress from ME+EM. Normally I don’t wear black to the beach because white looks better against my complexion after a day in the sun. However, I’m willing to make an exception if it will make me look like I’m on an Italian holiday.

✈️ BOOK YOUR BEACH

Airfare Spot has been featuring a lot of *summer* and *late-summer* sales. Here are the ones that caught my attention:

• Non-stop flights to the Bahamas from NYC - $216 r/t

• AA non-stop flights to Los Cabos, Mexico from Dallas - $295 r/t

• Discounted flights to Los Cabos, Mexico from NYC - $307 r/t

• Non-stop flights to Cancun from LA - $266 r/t

See all the deals here.

🏖️ WISH YOU WERE HERE

When I visited Playa del Carmen, Mexico in November 2020, I stayed at Mahekal Beach Resort. It is ideally located on the beach and within walking distance of Mamitas Beach Club and Quinta Avenida—the two places where I spent most of my time during my brief visit. I booked Mahekal because of the bungalow-style accommodations and because every bungalow comes with two hammocks. In the middle of a global pandemic, it provided much-needed respite, and it sits on one of the best beaches in the area.

BOOK YOUR STAY

🤑 MONEY-SAVING TRAVEL TIP

This one from Recomendo has been hiding in my bookmarks since 2019! I can’t believe I forgot about this. All those Euros and Bahamian coins cluttering up my junk drawer could’ve been extra hot skim milk cappuccinos, and a slice, or two, of lemon cake. Well, I’m heading to Canada next week so I will take advantage of this tip and report back. Hope I don’t forget again.

Here’s a tip I haven’t tried yet, but it sounds like a great idea. When you’re leaving a foreign country and still have some of the local currency, take it to a Starbucks and load it onto a gift card. You can use the card later in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Mexico, and the Republic of Ireland. — MF

But this means that I also spent the better part of my Sunday searching for beaches to visit. At the top of my list are Tenerife and Ibiza, Spain, but if I were to go someplace closer to home for example Martha’s Vineyard or Bermuda, I can get two trips out of my new miles boost. The choices were too many, so I’m opening it up to you, any suggestions? I prefer locations where the water temps are 75+ degrees.

🛍️THIS WEEK’S PICKS

I bought the Tik-Tok favorite Alo High-Waist Pursuit Trouser last week in cosmic grey. They would be perfect for sightseeing and beach nights and would go nicely with the tank tops I got from BR Factory. Regrettably, the trousers disappeared my butt. I don’t have much to begin with, so the pants were a no for me in spite of how much I loved them. I returned them and ordered the Solar Visor Hat instead, which means that I can now retire my Adidas sun visor that has seen me through many, many sunny beach days.

SHOP THE SALES

It’s summer sale season! Now is the time to make sure your vacation wardrobe is complete with everything you need for the beach, the pool, or just hanging out at the resort! Here are the sales I’m shopping this week:

• NORDSTROM - The Anniversary Sale, the mother of all summer sales, starts soon! Valid 7/11 through 8/6

• BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY - Up to 60% off everything + extra 50% off clearance - Valid now through 7/13

• TARGET - Up to 50% off member-exclusive offers - Valid 7/9 through 7/15

• SAKS OFF 5TH - 25% off orders $150+ with code SAVINGS - Valid 7/11 through 7/15

• URBAN OUTFITTERS - women’s tops and men’s tees starting at $9.95 - Valid for a limited time

• OLD NAVY - 50% off everything, including flip-flops - Valid 7/9 through 7/11

🏖️ WISH YOU WERE HERE

Last March, I needed to decompress after a pretty stressful couple of weeks of work and decided to head to Puerto Rico. I had an award ticket with United Airlines and I got upgraded to business class. ¡Wepa! My disappointment started when I boarded my flight. No pillows, no blankets, but thankfully, I could lay flat because I had not slept the night before. After breakfast, I pushed away my tray, lowered my seat, and fell asleep. I didn’t wake up until the flight attendant asked me to return my seat to the upright position. So, the smooth flight made up for my disappointment with my upgrade. It even made up for the children who were running back and forth in the aisles (I was vaguely conscious of them while I slept).

CONTINUE READING

🍸AFTER THE BEACH

Sometimes the pleasure of a beach day is quite simply the lingering satisfaction as you return home.

I stumbled upon the recipe for this non-alcoholic craft cocktail by Aplos Calme last week. I loved the description so much, I ordered a bottle.

Last March, I needed to decompress after a pretty stressful couple of weeks at work and decided to head to Puerto Rico. I had an award ticket with United Airlines and I got upgraded to business class. ¡Wepa! My disappointment started when I boarded my flight. No pillows, no blankets, but thankfully, I could lay flat because I had not slept the night before. After breakfast, I pushed away my tray, lowered my seat, and fell asleep. I didn’t wake up until the flight attendant asked me to return my seat to the upright position. So, the smooth flight made up for my disappointment with my upgrade. It even made up for the children who were running back and forth in the aisles (I was vaguely conscious of them while I slept).

Upon arrival in San Juan, I took an Uber to my hotel, the Fairmont San Juan. Another disappointment. As I waited on the pool deck for my room, I counted three DJs playing three different types of music between the pool and the beach. Clearly, this was not the place to decompress. I checked out the next morning with no clear destination. I decided to do a tour of Old San Juan, and after chatting with a young family over lunch in the open-air restaurant at Palacio Provincial, I was convinced to book the remainder of my stay at the El Conquistador Resort in Fajardo.

When I arrived at the El Conquistador, all the joy I was feeling about this beautiful resort dissipated in the 45 minutes I stood in line to check-in. By the time I reached the desk, I was in agony from standing in flip-flops on the hard tile floor. I was then given vague instructions to find my room. I walked for what felt like an eternity through a maze of hallways and staircases only to discover that my room was right next to the elevators. Once inside, the carpet was damp, the bathroom door was broken, and there was no room service. ¡Ay, Dios mío!

I used Travel and Leisure GO for all my hotel bookings in Puerto Rico, but I wouldn’t recommend this service. I canceled my membership the minute I got home. I promise to write a post one day about my experience with the platform.

The El Conquistador Resort has all the trappings of an all-inclusive resort, complete with waterpark, but nothing is included. That evening, I ate dinner at the Brisas Courtyard Cafe. I had the Churrasco, with rice and beans and ripe plantains, and it gave me a better outlook on the resort. The next morning, I took the ferry from the resort’s marina to Palomino Island, a private island that is part of the resort, and enjoyed a relaxing day at the beach.

The following day, I lazed around on the resort’s pool deck and had an unimpressive deep-tissue massage at the spa. The El Conquistador is a family resort, so there were children everywhere. However, they were mostly contained in the waterpark, so I was actually able to enjoy the pool.

That evening, I dined under the stars at Café Bella Vista and retired early to my room to binge-watch Poker Face. I had an early flight the next morning and debated whether to go to sleep or pull an all-nighter. Sleep won.

If I wasn’t bone-tired, I would have stayed at the Fairmont. I really liked its location on the beach and being close to town. However, the El Conquistador Resort was just lovely, with stunning views, great restaurants, and close proximity to the ferries to Culebra and Vieques. Had I booked a longer stay, I would have organized a couple of day trips. I might have even bought one of the excursions that the representative at the concierge desk was so eager to sell me.

I would absolutely visit Puerto Rico again someday, but not to decompress.

My goal is to post new content once a week unless there’s a great find that can’t wait. I’m currently in the process of transitioning my blog posts to this new medium, so please excuse me as I experiment to figure out what works best.

🛍️THIS WEEK’S PICKS

So let’s dive right in with this week’s shopping finds!

Colorblock Jacquard Tote Bag | Zara | $49.90

I want to bring a bit of color to my beach style this summer. My beach wardrobe consists mainly of whites, denim, and black. I think this Colorblock Jacquard Tote Bag from Zara would be a perfect addition. I’m also liking this Goyard dupe from Tory Burch in Sunset. Although it’s pricier than the Zara bag, its cost-per-wear is worth the extra expense.

Big Ring leather slides | Dragon Diffusion | $170

These gorgeous neutral leather sandals by Dragon Diffusion caught my eye. Despite their lack of color, I think they would also be a good addition to my wardrobe.

I scooped up two of these Ribbed-Scooped Neck Tanks in White and Whiskey from Banana Republic Factory. They’re on sale for $10 (orig. $30), but I paid $7.50 each with my Capital One Shopping discount.

Orange Scarlett Floral Print-Mesh Maxi Dress | Eywasouls Malibu | $246
Canvas & Jute Espadrille Wedges | Castaner | $100

I’m a big fan of Eywasouls Malibu’s dresses and this orange mesh dress in particular. I think the way Matches Fashion styled it with the Castaner orange jute espadrille wedges is excellent, as it adds height to avoid tripping on the hem.

✈️ BOOK YOUR BEACH

It’s summer somewhere, but not around here where it still feels like late Spring. Searching for affordable get-out-of-here airfare deals this week, I found:

• Airfare Watchdog has cheap weekend fares out of Newark Airport to Florida and Puerto Rico starting at $108 round-trip.

• Non-stop flights to Montego Bay, Jamaica from Newark for a bargain price of $215 round-trip all summer long! Ya, Mon!

• Non-stop flights to Costa Rica from Washington, DC on Avianca for $248 round-trip.

• New York City to Grand Cayman Non-stop on JetBlue starting at $222 round-trip.

📚 WHAT I’M READING

• United Airlines Gives 30,000 Miles to Passengers Affected by Cancellations, Delays (I was one of them) — See If You're Eligible - Travel and Leisure

• How to Visit the Beautiful Settings of Summer 2023’s Best Beach Reads for Less - Travel and Leisure

• Where to Stay, Eat, and Play on Sicily's Under-the-Radar Aeolian Islands - Who What Wear

🏖️ WISH YOU WERE HERE

CNN Travel has included Nissi Beach in Cyprus as one of the top beaches to visit in July.

Water that’s bluer and warmer than you thought possible, plus white sand and a teardrop-shaped islet to swim out to and bask on. Cyprus is renowned for its fine beaches, but Nissi stands out.

Booking a trip to Nissi Beach? Check into the Nissi Beach Resort for a magical and memorable visit.

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