NYC

NYC: See the Town in Style

March 25, 2013

Seeing New York is an awesome experience. This goes for both first-time travelers and locals.

New York is, undoubtedly, one of the best cities in the world. That’s why many wish to visit New York at least once in their lifetime. And for us who actually get to experience New York every day, the feeling is amazing!

There are so many things to see and do in New York—delicious street foods, awe-inspiring skyscrapers, posh salons and boutiques, amazing Broadway shows, and Central Park. Tourists are in for a lot of surprises the moment they step on New York ground.

One thing that’ll totally surprise you while in New York City…

Despite the wonders of this amazing city, tourists can be completely caught off guard by the high price. Traveling to New York can be very expensive. Cab rides, for example, can make you gasp.

You have to be smart about your spending habits while in the Big Apple. The good news is you will still be able to enjoy your stay even when being frugal. Here are some smart ways to save money while getting around New York City. Instead of a hotel, why not try an Airbnb? Here’s a tip, get a home cleaning service in NYC or if you’re staying in Brooklyn, try a Brooklyn Maid Service to take care of making the bed so you can enjoy your day.

Skip cabs unless really necessary

Cabs are rampant in NYC. They are convenient but can be very pricey. For the most part, just getting in would cost you at least $2 already. And then you’d have to pay 40 cents for each fifth of a mile. At night, the rates are higher. So unless it’s really necessary, don’t flag down cabs.

Experience the subway

New York is also known for its amazing subway system. You could see a station every couple of blocks in certain areas. Your New York experience will not be complete unless you ride the subway. And because it’s cheap, you’ll look forward to it.

Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with the stops because you can easily get maps. You can simply download phone apps that will tell you when to hop off. Another awesome thing about the subway is you can purchase Metrocards depending on your needs. There are single card, pay-per-ride, and unlimited ride cards.

Walk

Everyone in New York walk. It’s the most common way to get from one place to another. This should suit you very well because walking doesn’t cost anything. You will save a lot of money by walking in NYC.

Unlike other states, New York is very conducive to walkers. A trip to the store can be accomplished by walking. Taking a car isn’t advisable because of the traffic and difficulty in finding a good parking spot, so make sure that you have comfortable shoes while in the Big Apple and be familiar with the rules of walking in New York.

Plus, it’s not only practical; it’s also good for your health.

It’s better if you don’t rent a car

Renting a car is not very practical especially if you’re in the city for only a few days. While it seems very convenient, you may get frustrated with traffic and parking. It’s not a smart way to travel in the city because it’s too expensive.

If you decide to rent a car, look for the best NYC parking garages

But if you do need to get one, make sure to plan ahead and look for the best NYC parking places. The last thing you want is to be slapped with tickets or get your car towed away after returning from a day of wandering the city.

You can find lots of websites and apps that can help you locate the most affordable and best nyc parking spots. That way, you won’t have to spend a lot on parking meters.

What other tips do seasoned visitors or NYC locals have for tourists?

Review: Aura Wellness Spa in New York City

June 17, 2012

I was recently invited to have a complementary facial at Aura Wellness Spa on West 33rd Street in New York City. If you’re familiar with the midtown west area you know just how busy and congested that part of the city is. So it was a nice surprise to find this spa hidden away in the midst of stores, buildings and restaurants. It’s truly a hidden gem in more ways than one.

I’ve been to many spas over the years and liked many and loved few, Aura Wellness Spa falls into the latter category. Not only is this huge 12,000 square feet space aesthetically beautiful but the services, customer service and the products are top of the line.

When I arrived at the spa I handled the usual spa pleasantries of filling out forms, sipping water and waiting for my esthetician. Once she arrived and led us toward the upper level where I was able to get a better view of the spa. There were these pods where you can have a water-jet massage with aromatherapy. I’ve never tried it before and it looks pretty interesting to have my entire body submerged in jet-propelled water with just my head sticking out. So I’ll have to try that on my next visit.

Anyway, once I arrived at the locker room I received a key, a robe and slippers to change into. The locker room was equipped with beautiful glass door showers, ice water, sinks, benches and of course a locker. Connecting to the locker room are the grottoes. If you book any one hour service or longer, you’re in for a treat. You can enjoy some down time in spas’ therapeutic grottoes. The one that caught my eye was covered in crystal and jade stones.

Our Therapeutic Grottoes are constructed of yellow loess soil, which contains numerous micro-organisms and minerals that dissolve, filter and eliminate toxins from the body. They also feature bioceramic stones which serve as another source for removing toxins and as a source for softening the skin, and bioceramic stones which emit infrared rays to improve blood circulation, boost metabolism and provide quick yet lasting relief from muscle and arthritis pain.

Unfortunately I was running short on time I didn’t get a chance to enjoy the grottoes but they were quite lovely. I arrived in my treatment room my esthetician took a brief assessment of my skin and began the treatment, an Aura Signature Facial. The Aura Signature Facial is a deep pore cleansing facial with exfoliation, extraction and a facial massage. I enjoyed the facial massage quite a bit because the esthetician spent a good amount of time gently massaging my puffy under eye area and my under eye bags looked so much better afterwards. After my facial my skin felt soft, pampered and greatful to have some much needed deep cleaning.

The spa also offers full body massages, reflexology, acupuncture, Asian herbal treatments, , Oriental body scrubs, and holistic health consultations. And if you’re in the mood to treat your sweetheart to something special, Aura Wellness also has four private suites for couple’s therapy with private saunas and showers. The space is quite lovely, serene and romantic, in my opinion a great spa for couples.

Overall I received a great facial and I really enjoyed the beautiful zen-like aesthetic of the facility. Aura Wellness provides a relaxing environment for holistic health treatments in the midst of busy Midtown Manhattan and I can’t wait to go back. Have you visited Aura Wellness spa?

I’ll be at Lucky FABB in the Big Apple on September 7th!

August 25, 2011

As part of Social Media Week and leading up to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is one of the most lust-worthy blogging events of the season, the Lucky Fashion and Beauty Blogger Conference (FABB). I attended FABB this past February and it was a blast! There were about 150 bloggers in attendance and Joan Rivers was the keynote, the panel included J.Crew’s Executive Creative Director/President Jenna Lyons, Fashion designer Tory Burch and Rich Tong, Fashion Director at Tumblr.

This time around Lucky brings Diane von Furstenberg, Coca Rocha, The Kardashian Sisters, Essie Weingarten (of Essie Cosmetics!), Rodger Berman and many more amazing peeps to NYC to advise aspiring bloggers on the business of fashion and beauty and of course blogging. The conference will explore female entrepreneurship and how to make a blog a business as well as branding yourself and how to work with the brands you love.

Unfortunately the conference is already sold out of the 250 available tickets (there’s a waiting list). Luckily I ordered my ticket early and will be among the lucky 250 bloggers attending this event. The good news is the conference will be available via live stream so that you can catch all of the deets!

Stay tuned for more news about this event or follow me on Twitter as I live tweet this amazing event!

Chanel’s Releases Limited Edition Denim Nail Polish for FNO

August 22, 2011

Fashions Night Out would not be complete without a little beauty added to mix. Chanel Stores will be giving complementary mini-manicures with their exclusive FNO Nail Colour Collection. The exclusive FNO collection features three denim-inspired hues called Les Jeans de Chanel. This limited edition nail polish collection will only be available throughout the end of September. The limited-edition hues are Blue Rebel, Coco Blue and Blue Boy. I have my eye on Coco Blue, classic isn’t it?

Have you made plans for Fashion’s Night Out?

New York Fashion Week FW 2011 Fine Jewelry Preview

February 17, 2011

If you are a lover of diamonds and lavishness of New York Fashion Week, than you are in the right place. Lipstick and Luxury attended the fabulous New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2011 Fine Jewelry Preview at the magnificent Soho House! The Soho house was beautiful filled with Moet Champagne, sushi, and cupcakes from Baked by Melissa. The NYFW Fall/Winter 2011 Fine Jewelry Preview showcases some of the hottest jewelry collection for 2011. The five collections at the preview were absolutely grand. From edgy skulls encrusted in black diamonds to a rose gold necklaces pair with natural materials and diamond, the preview was filled with lux! So let’s talk jewelry!

N.oor

The Riviere Necklace from the Touche Du Bois collection

Noor Fares, a talent and young Lebanese jewelery designer has develop a line that combined the beauty of nature with the opulence of 18k gold encrusted diamonds. One of my favorite collection is the Touche Du Bois ,which means “Touch Wood for Luck”, uses of wooden beads and the opulence of the diamonds and rose gold. One of my favorite pieces from the collection is the Riviere bracelet and necklace. These piece to me have great Subtle details. One example of that is the sapphire set “evil” eye in Riviere bracelets. The Touche Du Bois is a beautiful collection. Here are a few of my favorite pieces.

Here is a look at the sapphire “evil” eye on the The Riviere bracelet from the Touche Du Bois collection

Soffer Ari

One of my most popular items from The Black Collection is the 9mm bullet balled chain necklace. The tip is covered in diamonds and can add the edge to any outfit.

I love this Cabrini green heavy ring. This ring is blanketed in black diamonds with raw silver exposed.

The Soffer Ari collection can be described in two words,Rock glam. Tons of celebrities wear Soffer Ari collection including Taylor from Beverly Hills Housewives, Singer Fergie, and epic rocker Slash. This handmade collection used the best diamonds and raw silver. My favorite collections from Soffer Ari is the Black Collection. The handmade raw artwork from the collection has subtle and dangerous beauty. Soffer Ari has a diverse line that also includes clothing and furniture.

Gayle Grenadier

With a Egyptian influence and beautiful hand craving artwork, the Gayle Grenadier is full of detail. My favorite piece from the collection is this 18k gold cuff with diamonds and emeralds. I personally tried on the cuff and the detail is skillful. I also like that the designer actually studied Egyptian hieroglyphics. The Gayle Grenadier collection is full of history and luxury.

Alex Soldier

Alex Soldier is known for designing beautiful jewelry and fine art including the Prince Rainer III Award given to Denzel Washington and his wife Pauletta. One of the premier collections is the Alex Soldier Haute Couture collection. The Haute Couture collection is full of fine art. The meticulous handmade detail and allure. Each item is hand carved with a special made tool for this beautiful detailing. Up close the Haute collection is splendid and interesting. Every piece from Alex Solider should be in a gallery.

I love the cuffs. It is a great accessory for any wardrobe.

I tried on this diamond locket and I love the structure of the necklace and the precise work. I love the white and black diamonds.

I had a wonderful time at the New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2011 Fine Jewelry Preview. You can never go wrong with diamonds. I had a wonderful time.