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Cuban coffee and Havana Nights…and Everything in between

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Perhaps it began when I would frequent Miami a few times a year in my 20’s.  Late nights with Media noches and morning hangover cures with Cuban coffees in the hot SoBe sun.  However it came about, I have longed to experience Cuba.  I was intrigued by the people.  By the endurance and strength of the country that was just next door.

Finally!  The gates have opened.  The time has arrived for exploring Havana.  So off I went, with one of my life long friends from school.  Apparently this was part of our continued education in embarking on this journey to Cuba together.  For we learned that there’s much more to the country than what we had even bargained for.  So much so that it can only truly be experienced by experiencing it for yourself.  Nonetheless, I do have suggestions to get you started on your very own journey:

Having only studied French, oddly enough, I always had a deep connection to Latin cultures and countries and was thrilled for the opportunity to engage with and start to learn more about my neighbors also while working my best Spanglish.  Though fortunately, most speak English, so Spanish is not required, though serves more as a courtesy.

El Malacon– We enjoyed the sights of the Malacon in a classic convertible, salsa music blasting, wind blowing in our hair.  Though if you’re feeling like a promenade on this famous sidewalk, sunset would be highly suggested.

El Floridita- The spot for Daquiri’s.  Made famous by none other than the Daiquiri king himself, Ernest Hemingway.  Located just off Havana’s Parque Central.  Try and score a table or bar spot for the nightlife.  Live music and energy for days, this place will have you feeling like a local.  (even though tourist are all that you see- all around)

Almacenes de Deposito San Jose- Looking for something unique with local flavor and culture, then shop here for some of the best in arts and crafts within Havana.

Cigar Factory- (I mean did you not expect to see this included?)

Museum of Rum-  Avenida del Puerto 262, esq. Sol, Habana Vieja Ciudad de La Habana.
Need I say more?
El Museo del Ron Havana Club

Finca Vigia-  Finca Vigía Km. 12 ½, La Habana, Cuba
The Cuban home of Ernest Hemmingway.  Although we didn’t include this on our journey, if you’re a devotee to Hemmingway, then this is not to be missed.  As it’s just 15 miles outside of Havana proper.  Hop in a classic car and make your journey east to find his former casa.  It’s said his home offers spectacular views of Havana!

Hotel Nacional-Calle 21 y O, Vedado, Plaza, La Habana 10400, Cuba
Located in the heart of Verdado for the last 80 years, this hotel has endless history and has welcomed celebrities and visitors from all over the globe. Hotel Nacional is a symbol of great pride for the city and serves as a central location for indulging in some local Rum, along with live entertainment most nights.

O’Reilly- #304 | Habana & Aguiar, Havana, Cuba
+53 5 2644725
Nothing like a quick run in for lunch with Jillian Michaels.  Well, not actually dining with her, though we shared a few moments of connecting over Cuba in this quaint little restaurant.  This place is thee place.  A true hot spot- great energy, ceviche and cocktails!

Paladar– at time of writing this (2018), is the only privately owned restaurant, as all others are owned by the government.

 

Culture, Travel

An unrealistic Romance with a place called Cuba.

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My love for Latin culture runs deep.  The irony is I have no idea why.  I grew up with German roots in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and yet a salsa song comes on and you’d think I’m busy celebrating my very own Quincenara.  I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy many incredible adventures to Latin countries- from Colombia to Costa Rica and now to Cuba.  I’ve wanted to go to Cuba for so many years I’ve lost count.  When Obama opened up travel, I was thrilled for the chance to finally learn more about this country, it’s people, arts and music and get the Real Real on this country.

Needless to say, I was a bit…..hmmm, how shall we say, oddly surprised?

I know my expectations might be slightly off- The spirits of Buena Vista Social Club Streets playing throughout the streets, while couples dance Salsa with reckless abandon.  Instead, it was more like streets ripped up. Riddled with trash. Clearly uncared for, for decades.  This country has endured a lifetime of entrapment, not only NOT moving forward….not staying as is either, as nature still manages to take its course in dilapidating and breaking down not only the land but also the buildings.  This stunning beautiful architecture crumbling and dilapidated. People residing in buildings that have no windows, floors of rubble.  Perhaps even a tree growing out from where the foundation used to be.

Inspired and stunning architecture still remains within the soul of this city.  Even if most of the buildings appear to be dilapidated, blown out- as if a war had taken its toll.  Though in reality, most of these buildings being owned by the government and unfortunately not upkept by its residents has turned this great potential into a sad reality.

As you walk the streets you can feel the pain this city has endured.  From the many years of revolution and take over from other countries.  This is not a city to be taken lightly.  For it’s people have incredible heart and determination.  Not to mention loyalty.  To my surprise, everywhere I turned was either the image of Che or a memorial of sorts for their recently lost Fidel.  I’ve never been to a communist country before this excursion and I was apparently a bit surprised to discover, learn, experience and bear witness to the life within.  And yet with all of this said, this place is still incredibly hopeful.  Mangrove trees line the streets.  A colorful life exists around them.  And the people, who offer beautiful smiles, despite the struggle are filled with the spirit and soul to believe that one day Cuba can truly be CUBA LIBRE!

 
Culture, Life, Travel

Inspired trip translates into an Inspired life

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Growing up on the east coast has always given me a great sense of pride in being a part of what the east coast means to me.  I think of the east coast as fast paced, hard working, authenticity.  And this is coming from a gal who was born and raised on the east coast and yet has spent the majority of my adult life on the west coast.  Though the pride I have in being a true east coaster is one that I will cherish my whole life.

For over the last 10 years, I’ve worked in the retail world, or rather REIT’s, who develop own and manage most of the biggest shopping centers in the United States.  After representing Fashion Valley for over half a decade, I was ready for a new challenge to further utilize and explore my talents.  I had put it out in the universe that I was ready for something new.  At that same time, I took a journey with my cousin to Peru.  This country has some of the most magical and spiritual places this world has to offer.  During this exploration, we ventured to Aguas Caliente to visit Machu Picchu one of the 7 wonders of the world- that, by the way, is absolutely not to be missed! (If you’ve ever even thought about doing so-GO!!!!!  You will not regret it and your life will forever be touched by this incredible place. )  I digress…

We started our journey in Lima where we were fortunate enough to spend time with our friend Hugo and his family who quickly familiarized us with the country, the culture and the must do’s on the trip.  They told us that while in Machu Picchu to be sure to say a special prayer and think of the things we hoped for, for our lives as the “mama pacha energy” that is known to be at this historic, inspiring site can be life changing.  I recall it ever so clearly, sitting on top of this truly magical land and feeling love and energy running through me as I took a moment to ‘go in’, take a moment of reflection and meditation and honor this peaceful place.  (Albeit, with a couple alpaca’s and llama’s hanging out beside me, lurking about)

I had just come out of a devastating divorce and was ready for the next chapter to unveil itself that would allow for great growth and inspiration for my career, as I wanted to focus my previous challenges into something more worthy.  Well, let’s just say Hugo was right.  Less than a month later, I was recruited to work with my biggest competitor in the shopping center business.  And despite the feeling of having to don a Scarlet letter in moving onto “the other side” I dove into this new opportunity, feeling somehow that the Incan’s had a hand in this next step.  You see, at this time, the World Trade center was a project being developed by my new company, Westfield. And being an east coaster, I wanted to be a part of it.  The entire world felt the affects of 9/11.   Westfield was personally affected by that tragic day, losing some of their very own from their Westfield family.  I was beyond inspired by the opportunity to be part of Westfield’s passion behind this project- a chance for honoring, remembering and persevering despite the pain.

Fast forward to 1 month ago, when I had the honor of being a part of this center’s grand opening.  Working with my team, collaborating on these efforts was one of the most rewarding projects I’ve been a part of thus far.  Not only was I inspired to see the hours and dedication that was poured into all aspects of this center, I was fueled by the fact that the entire grand opening was a Family Day, created and dedicated to honor those touched by the tragedies that happened there.  The grand opening was a beautiful moment that completely touched and overwhelmed my heart.  In fact, at times it was hard to hold in all the emotion I felt simply being there, surrounded by thousands of people who were brought together to be honored.  Spending time with those so closely affected by 9/11 and feeling all the love in this sacred spot was truly remarkable.  I love my east coasters.  Though let’s be honest… we move fast, we talk fast, we want typically people to move out of our way.  And anyone who’s even visited New York knows that it can be a bit frantic and dare I say, an aggressive city at times.  And yet, on this day, there was such a sense of peace.  Of respect.  Of honor. Of Love, that overwhelmed my heart and made me thankful that a little vacation to a little place called Peru, opened up a new chapter in my life where I had the chance to contribute to a project of compassion, of heart, of meaning.  And on this day, the 15th year anniversary of 9/11 I can’t help but think of all those families who I spent moments with- being inspired by their strength, love and togetherness.  I will never forget.

 

 

Fashion, Travel

A day of Iconic history and fashion…then again, it IS Paris.

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Yesterday, I had an overload of stunning handbags, as I went to the original Goyard boutique on Rue St. Honore, as well as a visit to Rue Cambon, to the original and mind blowing Chanel store (which just also happens to be where Coco herself resided, and now also houses Karl Lagerfeld’s office on the 3rd floor)  Talk about feeling the love for Chanel!

I decided after living in Paris for close to 3 months, it was time to indulge.  And indulge I did.  My original intent was to finally purchase the signature Goyard tote as a sweet souvenir to return home with.  However, I instead treated myself to a little something at Chanel and topped it off with a little champs in-store, to officially celebrate this fine day.  There’s something truly special to the service offered in these boutiques.  No wonder people come back for more, as you’re truly queen for the day.  Or at the very least, while splurging!

Spending time at the original Chanel store offers more than beautiful couture, it offers a rich history into one of the most prestigious brands in the world.  Knowing Coco spent time here, diligently deliberating over every detail to ensure the highest quality and fashion is enough to inspire any fashionista.  Every detail in ensuring the most welcoming visit to the store, even includes fitting rooms that just may happen to be larger than your petite hotel room!  Along with a gorgeous Chanel robe to sport, in between fittings, of course.  Hands down, the entire experience is simply, Tres chic!

After having the chance to spend an afternoon with some of the best brands in Paris and certainly some of the best shopping offered on Rue St. Honore, it was time to give thanks for enjoying some incredible materialistic finds by spending some time at the historic La Madeleine.  La Madeleine is a historic Catholic church located nearby in the 8th arrondissement.  Luckily, I stumbled in just as service was starting.  Being there to hear the prayers and hymns in french was a unique and powerful experience in itself.  No better way to finish the day, than to be able to indulge in some of the best of Paris, through Couture,  then wrapping up the day by experiencing one of the most historic monuments in Parisian history.  An iconic day all in all.  Bon soir, my sweet Pareeeee!

 

 

Fashion

Scarfs and STRIPES forever *****

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Ok, so maybe not the Stars, though no doubt the Scarfs and the Stripes.  I’ve always thought of Parisians as wearing stripes, a beret and having a baguette in tow, each day.  And I have to say, I’m fairly close.  Maybe not so much the beret, but certainly stripes and baguettes.  And why wouldn’t you?  Paris by far, has the best bread around!  I honestly have no problem eating just a baguette for a meal, by itself-it’s That GOOD!  I’ve even heard they bake their baguettes with less glutens, which in my minds means it’s “healthy” and delicious….and guilt free!

Though as for the other French traditions it seems to be quite true. As I was a bit surprised to find that from Souvenir shops, to locals alike, Stripes can be seen everywhere in this town.  Which suits me just fine as I tend to think that stripes are just another Basic, like a plain colored tee.  I’ve historically not been much of a “print wearing kind of gal” that is until I started working with and representing brands like Custo Barcelona, Desigual and other International brands that have forced me to branch out of my traditional/classic mold.  Again, I was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania- not really a place where they honor and cherish fashion per se. Though I have to say that  I simply love the fact that Parisians love their stripes!

As for scarfs- yet another must have item while in Paris.  It tends to rain a fair amount here. Which, quite honestly was news to me.  So along with your handy dandy umbrella, a scarf is another essential. Not only to change up and add a little “Je ne sais quoi” but also as a way to cover your newly coiffed “Do” and/ or to cover up and keep you from the chill in the air, especially during a sporadic and almost always guaranteed rain storm. As you’re bound to get caught in one!  So embrace the romance of these refreshing storms, just don’t get caught out in one, or be prepared to do so.

Therefore, if you are to find yourself headed to Paris and are like myself, a big fan of stripes, be sure to pack them up, pack them in…and you’ll fit right in!  All you’ll need is a baguette, in your tote, to finish off the final look and you’re ready for Paris, my sweet!

A True Parisian sporting her stripes...and on a Vespa-perfection!
A True Parisian sporting her stripes…and on a Vespa-perfection!
In true French Fashion...a full family of stripes!
In true French Fashion…a full family of stripes!
Stripes on the rooftop of Gallerie Lafayette. Oh and the at our Eiffel from behind!
Stripes on the rooftop of Gallerie Lafayette. Oh and the at our Eiffel from behind!
Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the Grand Palais, Paris
Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit at the Grand Palais, Paris
Life

From Flood…to France!

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Here I sit, flooded carpet, cut-out dry wall,  dehumidifier set at a balmy 105 degrees….damaged condo all around.  This is it.  This is the last message needed to send me on my way.

For months, I’ve been seeing signs to head to Paris, though to be honest, I hadn’t paid much attention.  Why would I?  I don’t know a soul in Paris, barely speak le Francais….why would I uproot my life and leave behind my entire network of family, friends and colleagues to head somewhere where I know no one?  Good Question.

The only answer I could find is simply…to Live!  Seems like a good enough answer for me.  Not to mention the signs were becoming ever so present that my friends asked if I needed to be beat across the head by a baguette before I pack up and go!  As for me, I’d much rather indulge in a scrumptious baguette than be beat on the head by it….so with that, I decided to pack it up for Pareeee!