There is a cure for that packing predicament of too many clothes and not enough space: convertible dresses. They’re all light-weight material and don’t wrinkle, making them the solution to nights out, days at the beach, and afternoons gallery hopping (all in one dress!). Here’s our roundup of our favorite convertibles:
Good news for those who are drawn to the eco-friendly appeal of the green movement, but not quite ready to trade in chic for compostable. Jetset Extra’s Celebrity Interior Designer and Green Living authority, Sophie Azouaou, had those consumers in mind when she unveiled the 2012 Green Design Trends at the prestigious Las Vegas World Summer Market Center, July 30 to August 3.
Design Diva Sophie Azouaou talks about Green Living
The convention drew over 38,000 attendees, with Former President Bill Clinton as the key-note speaker. Clinton shared his perspective on globalization and the growing interdependence of the world’s people, emphasizing the need to save energy, water and all our natural resources.
President Clinton was the Keynote Speaker
The convention’s theme was the Green economy.
“The goal is to be trendy, respect Mother Nature and save the planet at the same time,” Azouaou explained. “We have come a long way and don’t have to sacrifice comfort and beauty to be Green.”
While attendees sipped R&B Cellars wine and enjoyed Vital Choice Wild Seafood Organic Trail Mix, Sophie unveiled the 2012 High Rise Green trends.
Here are some of the Trends at a glance:
Specific small scale furniture to deal with space limitations in High Rises
Energy efficient window coverings shades that are Green assured. Finding Greener alternatives in the shades themselves by opting for organic fabrics.
Energy efficient appliances: HE washers and dishwashers
Efficient water usage via low flush toilets, showerheads and faucets
Indoor air: purifying plants recommended, to purify the air, Low VOC Paint (Volatile Organic Compounds) and organic wall papers to avoid toxic gas exposure
The Seminar was a huge success. Attendees left happy, their arms full with goodies. Most importantly, they learned they don’t have to sacrifice comfort and design to lead a Greener and healthier life.
FILM REVIEW:
The love child of Glee & Abba is living in Israel and her name is Mary Lou. This film is a wonderful romp with a serious message hiding inside. With only one sneak peak at the San Francisco Jewish Film Fest, Mary Lou is already catching the buzz in anticipation of it’s US premiere at the Castro Theater September 17th through the 21st.
Mary Lou was originally created as an award winning four part Israeli television series in 2010. If you are one of those people who get catchy songs stuck in your head, consider yourself warned. This musical tells the story of young Meir Levi who shares his mom Miriam’s love of the Israeli rock star Svika Pick. Pick even makes a cameo appearance in one scene. His music has an infectious 70′s beat with raw emotions and a touch of the exotic thanks to the melodic Hebrew lyrics. With Miriam singing Pick’s tunes my mind drifted off to a parallel universe with Doris Day singing Kurt Cobain’s depressingly raw lyrics with her signature sunny disposition.
Meir and his mother Miriam are living a hum drum life in rural Israel. The opening scene has them dusting in matching head scarfs, our first hint that this young boy might grow up to bat for the other team. My favorite quote from the film is spoken by Miriam as she explains that “it’s easier to defeat dust than sadness.”
Mom mysteriously leaves town during Meir’s tenth birthday party. As a slightly built bleached blond teen of flamboyantly non-hetero appearance, Meir suffers through the stereotypical high school taunting. If you have watched enough Glee you already know that the worst tormenters are acting out of fear of their own sexual identity issues. Meir’s beautiful gal pal Shuli makes life worth living as his trusted confidant and protector. (Shuli is played by Dana Frider, who was discovered on the Israeli version of “So You Think You Can Dance.”)
Enter Gabriel, the impossibly handsome dark skinned love interest of both Meir and Shuli. Shuli forms a relationship with Gabi and the heartbroken Meir moves to the big city of Tel Aviv. His quest is to find the famous Svika Pick, whom he has woven an elaborate fantasy involving his mother having run off to sing in Pick’s band.
Along this journey he is befriended by Ori who introduces him to the world of drag performing. Meir eventually becomes a cast member of “The Holly Wigs” and transforms himself into “Mary Lou”, a character in one of his mother’s favorite Svika Pick songs.
Meir and his friends learn universal coming of age lessons and all arrive at their own version of adulthood by the end of the film. You also get to find out what happened to Miriam.
Get to know Mary Lou, you’ll be blown away.
MARY LOU
US Premiere:
Sept 17 – 21, 2011
Castro Theatre
429 Castro St
San Francisco, CA
I’m sure that there are countless people out there who would never travel with jewelry, for fear of being a target for thieves. But me? You should know me well enough by now that I don’t go anywhere without jewelry! (except perhaps the shower…) Granted, I won’t bring my better pieces to certain places, but I will be adorned in some way, shape or form on each and every trip.
Getting your baubles from point A to point B with ease is easier than you might think. The first and MOST important rule is to carry your jewelry with you. Never put it in a checked bag, or you may not have your lovelies with you when you land. There are many products made for travel which are really quite convenient. I recently got this one made by Cathayana for a client in a local travel shop. (This is another cool version that you can hang as well.)
Jewelry travel roll
It has a good amount of storage space in various sizes, and I like how the sheer pockets allow you to see what you’ve got with you, as well as adding a nice layer of protective fabric for when it’s rolled closed.
travel bag-inside
A peek at what’s inside
The one thing that organizers like this often don’t have room for are the larger bangles or over-sized necklaces. For these, I usually tuck them into a small clutch or evening bag. It’s something I would bring on the trip anyway, so why not use it for a dual purpose? Here’s what I often use:
Small bag I use to carry bangles & over-sized necklaces
A final concern are those long, thin necklaces that invariably get tangled no matter what you do. I’ve got the solution for you! First, take a piece of paper towel that’s about the same length as your necklace. Lay your necklace down near one edge of the paper towel.
Next step…lay your necklace on the paper towel
Next, carefully roll the necklace up in the towel.
Finally, fold up this roll and put it into a baggie for tangle-free travel.
I hope you find these hints helpful. Enjoy your next trip while looking fabulously accessorized!
For design-conscious travelers with a flair for adventure, we have a special treat that is treehouse chic. Tree Hotel sits above the ground in the trees of the remote northern village of Harads, Sweden and offers up a true one-of-a-kind experience. Guests can stay in six uniquely designed rooms all nestled up in the pine trees.
The inspiration behind Tree Hotel came from the documentary “Trädälskaren” (Treelover) by Jonas Selberg Augustsen, a philosophical film about what the tree means to humans both culturally and historically.
There’s an admiral focus on being green out of respect for the environment that is their very foundation.
“It is important that we find another way to value the forest, rather than to cut the trees for industrial use. This Boreal forest is one of the Earth’s lungs. We need to look after it,” states their website.
There’s The Bird’s Nest which appears to be just that, a nest. Inside it’s decked out in a high-standard, modern style. The best part: to enter this room, you use a retractable staircase.
The Blue Cone is a twist on the traditional cabin in the woods. Only thing is, it’s in a tree. It’s a modern, simple design made with lightweight materials and features stunning views.
The Cabin looks like something straight out of the future. This room has a spacious deck which the room is actually suspended from.
The Mirrorcube is a lightweight aluminum structure created out of mirrors, blending it in with the environment. It features 360 degree views.
The UFO looks just like it sounds. Decorated with the theme it floats in the trees and looks eerily real.
A Room With A View has three levels, all with stunning views. There’s a private terrace, an elevated bedroom and living space.
Another coffee table book is about to lure you in. With it’s glossy pages and high quality photos, who could resist? Conde Nast Traveler’s Room with a View is a collection of the best hotel room views around the world. After all, it really is all about the view. E.M. Forster would be proud.
Listen up, thirsty friends. EARLY BIRD tickets are now available for the 5th Annual San Francisco Cocktail week held September 19-25th, 2011. A record number of partners for seven days and nights of the best the Bay has to offer.
The week-long extravaganza, which hosts a series of events from September 19 to the 25, is a annual celebration of the Bay Area’s cocktail culture, heritage, and industry.
San Francisco Cocktail Week events will be held in venues, bars and restaurants throughout the Bay Area.
Some of this year’s events include …
Opening Night Party, Anchor Brewing Company, SF, Mon. Sept 19, 6 to 9 p.m., $35
East Bay Showdown, Tessera, Oakland Thurs. Sept. 22, 6 to 9 p.m., $45
Best of the West, The Forum at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Thurs. Sept 22, 6 to 9 p.m., $45
… and so much more!
For those looking for a little extra umph, this year’s program includes the Gold Pass.
Available for $600 through August 31st and a whopping $700 after that! These tickets allow customers access to every main event, as well as after parties, seminars, cocktail dinners and VIP perks.Go for the Gold!
The countdown to Jazz on the Mountain At Whistler is on, with less than tw weeks left before the festivities commence!
In addition to the more than 30 live performances taking place between September 2 and 4, Canada’s newest music festival has announced a series of events.
Concerts include the Mountain Top BBQ Jazz Series and Bearfoot Bistro Brunch with celebrated headliner, Lorne Lofsky.
Concert tickets are available for $160 per person for the entire weekend and $65 for a single day ticket.
This weekend event includes free and ticketed concerts to both indoor and outdoor venues, showcasing the biggest names in jazz music, including Kevin Eubanks, Stanley Jordan, and The Rippingtons.
If you’re going all the way for the festival, you might as well save a few bucks and stay at Whistler for as little as $109 a night.
For a limited time, packages are available that offer three nights accommodation and one set of concert passes to Whistler Olympic Plaza, priced at $293.
For more information about the jazz festival, view the schedule and to book your musical vacation now, visit www.whistlerjazzfest.com.
Add some historical flare to the end of your summer in the city where Labor Day was first celebrated 1878. This is the busiest month in Boston with many art, film, jazz and food festivals galore.
New York (Most Festive)
Another city steeped in the history of Labor Day, New York was the second city to celebrate Labor Day in 1882 with the famous Labor Day parade still held today. Massive heat waves may ward people off, but the big apple is almost annually ranked as the most popular destination for Labor Day getaways because of impressive hotel deals.
Seattle (Most Music-Obsessed)
An alternative to the hot and bustling cities of the east, Seattle offers access to nature, ideal weather, and plenty of iced coffee. In addition, the world-famous Bumbershoot festival (the Northwest’s largest urban arts festival) takes place over Labor Day weekend.
Las Vegas (Best Deal)
What better way to end the summer than to forget about reality for the weekend? With unbeatable hotel rates over Labor Day weekend, it’s clearly the economical choice (and that gives you extra cash for the slot machines!).
San Diego (Most Laid-Back)
September is the best kept secret in San Diego. The beaches are clear of tourists and the weather is perfect. Sea World has a Labor Day weekend special with fireworks and nighttime shows.
Read more about the best deals and Labor Day getaways at Orbitz, and check out Hotwire’s most booked cities list for Labor Day Weekend.
At the base of South America’s Andean range, one will find a magical valley oasis – “lugar de sin- cuenta estrellas”, a place of endless stars and unparalleled beauty – Chile’s Atacama Desert.
Here it is easy to get lost in a reverie amidst the vast open landscape of salt flats, sand dunes, rock canyons, mountain peaks, geysers and brilliantly painted skies. Visitors come in search of solace, spiritual awakening and an exhilarating eco-adventure.
The Alto Atacama Desert Lodge and Spa, an all inclusive resort in Northern Chile’s Katarpe Valley, is the perfect base to explore and experience the beauty of Altiplano.
The Alto Atacama was created to exist in perfect harmony with nature.
The property’s tranquil park setting is framed by the Cordillera de la Sal with stunning views from every angle. The architecture is simple integrating many of the traditional building techniques and of the local people. The exterior layout is very much like an adobe village complete with a rock garden, indigenous plants, and even a few resident llamas. Careful attention has been given to every detail to create synergy and achieve balance with the environment. The desert soil colors and textures the walls; the roofs are covered with native Coligue wood. Water is purified and recycled for irrigation and rooms are designed for maximum natural ventilation so there is no need for air conditioning. Even the outdoor landscape lighting is minimized as to not detract from the magnificent starry night skies.
Fast Fact: In 2011, National Geographic Magazine ranks Alto Atacama first on their list of best properties to visit in Chile and as one of the best in South America.
The Altiplano climate is mild and pleasant with warm sunny days and cool evenings. Humidity is practically non-existent. And, there are no bothersome insects to contend with…so leave the bug spray at home.
Upon arrival, guests are inspired by the resort’s amenities to relax and unwind. There are multiple pools, an outdoor terrace, walking trail, spa and a full service bar and restaurant.
Alto Atacama’s interior is as rich as it exterior structure… pure authentic luxury.
Natural earth tone colors combined with native fabrics, furniture and accents create a winning and unique design concept.
Rooms, spacious and inviting, are more like casitas… each with its own private terrace complete with a built-in cushioned daybed conducive for a perfect afternoon siesta.
A full size desk, quality linens, a mini-fridge, custom artisan chairs, and a large modern bathroom are standard.
Superior comfort and service are core to the Alto Atacama philosophy.
The atmosphere is intimately familiar. Getting in touch with your inner self and your loved ones has never been so easy. Stories of victorious climbs and conquests dominate the conversation around the fireplace in the cozy main house living room, lovers escape into the shadows to toast the moonlight, families play connect the dots…sharing the mystery of the Milky Way while other guests opt for personal pampering with a rejuvenating treatment at the spa or a private soak in the jacuzzi.
Insider Tip: A special indulgence can be found only at the Puri Spa – the “Royal Quinoa Facial”. Quinoa, an ancient grain, is mixed with a blend of natural ingredients to create a magical skin treatment that renews and revitalizes with glowing results.
Sports enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies will delight in the resort’s long list of available guided treks and high octane excursions.
Sand Surfing or Rock Repelling anyone?
For those who enjoy exploring on their own, the Alto Atacama is just a 15-20 minute walk from the eclectic little tourist town of San Pedro. Craft shops, local eateries and adventure tour outfitter offices dot San Pedro’s narrow streets. And, don’t be surprised to see this postage size town buzzing with backpackers on any given day. The Atacama has become a top destination for eco-conscious thrill seekers.
Beyond the obvious outdoor activities,visitors also quickly discover the rich history of the region. A number of organized cultural tours are readily available. Journey to the remote altiplanic villages of Caspana and Chiu-Chiu, take a bike ride through the scenic valley to the ancient Incan village of Kartape or explore the ruins of Pukara de Quitor, an illustrious Indian fortress that is now a national monument. Whatever your passion, the treasures of the Northern Chile’s high desert country will truly amaze and enrich you on every level.
Whether you stay a few days or a few weeks, the Alto Atacama Lodge and Spa will teach you how to transcend the ordinary. The sojourn starts in the desert…but ends with a profound discovery of self. One learns through the art of simple pleasures, meditation and soulful serenity that our existence is not unlike the millions of stars that illuminate the night or the delicate grains of sand that shape the expansive dunes.
The magnificent beauty of the Altiplano reminds us daily that we have a purpose in the circle of life and are just a small part of an amazing universe that should be protected, celebrated and shared.
When to Go: As soon as possible! An incredible adventure awaits you year round.
“300 Days of Sunshine and 365 Celestial Nights”
Preferred Airline: LAN offers daily flights to Calama from Santiago. Check LAN Airlines for special promotions or contact LAN Vacations for inclusive cost-saving packages and for all your trip planning needs.
One Hour Drive from Calama Airport – Courtesy Shuttle to Resort
5 star boutique resort property (all inclusive packages available)
32 rooms -each with private terraces (soon to be 42 with new rooms completed by March 2012)
6 pools; 1 jacuzzi
Full service Spa
Full service Restaurant & Bar
In-house Tour Guide Service
Shuttle
Complimentary WiFi
Complimentary Use of Mountain Bikes with all premium packages
Room Amenities:
Private Bathroom
Private Terrace
Digital Safe
Mini-Fridge
Plush Bath Robes
Custom Bath Products
Hairdryer
Telephone
Desk
Sitting Area
Complimentary Mineral Water
Complimentary Buffet Breakfast
Access to Spa – Steam Room, Sauna & Jacuzzi
Top Pick Excursions/Expeditions:
The Tatio Geysers – depart at dawn for the high country (elevation: 14,000 ft) to see Chile’s famous geysers. Absolutely Amazing Scenery – towering steam fields, thermal pools, hot rivers, colorful rock formations and incredible flora and fauna. Be sure to bring a warm coat, gloves and a hat…temps drop to near 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below on most mornings.
Sunset at Moon Valley – a visit to Chile’s most famous national park. The incredible lunar landscape is the perfect setting for an unforgettable sunset that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
The Atacama Salt Flats – for another sensational sunset, journey to the second largest salt flat area in the Americas and in the world. Located 35 miles from San Pedro, the rugged white Atacama Salt Flats area covers approximately 1,864 square miles and is completely surrounded by volcanic mountains. In fact, Chile’s most active volcano, Lascar, is in close range. The rare wild flamingos and other native birds which frequent the nearby lagoons (Laguna de Chaxa) make this a popular excursion for bird watching enthusiasts and photographers.
Room Rates:Seasonal
Bed & Breakfast Plan Rate per Night: *USD $199 to $221
Half Board Plan (lunch or dinner) Rate per Night: *USD $239 to $261
*rates are per person based on double occupancy
Premium Packages Available – full board including airport transfers, wine and beer with meals, snacks, access to spa facilities and resort amenities as well as daily guided excursions (3-6 night plans).
Package pricing for a 3-night stay: USD $645 – $705 per person (based on double occupancy).
Divas be sure to check out the “Women Way Up High“” promo package for special savings.
4 Days & 3 Nights – ALL-INCLUSIVE (minimum 8 participants)
Airport transfers to/from resort
Accommodations – 3 nights in valley-facing terraced room
Welcome drink, lunch and dinner (wine included)
Buffet breakfast
Excursions -focused on local culture, lifestyle and history
Spa promotions featuring ancient Andean inspired massage treatments
Full resort access & daily programmed activities
Contact the Alto Atacama Lodge directly for special group rates.
This one can be worn in 50 different ways!
for a client in a local travel shop. (
is another cool version that you can hang as well.)
is a collection of the best hotel room views around the world. After all, it really is all about the view. 
