Showing posts with label Product Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Product Reviews. Show all posts
Stylish Sandals for a Cause by Sseko Designs
Meet Sseko Designs, a company created to help bright young women in Uganda continue their education. Read their story here and if strappy sandals are on your list for your next Caribbean vacation, consider these:
We love shoes that give back... remember this post about TOMS Shoes wedding line - perfect for Destination Weddings.
Order here.
Polarized Lenses - Don't leave home without them!
As many couples do, my husband and I often engage in the common spousal debate of fashion vs. function. This topic comes most frequently when we discuss shoes. What woman doesn't feel sexiest in a pair of heels? It doesn't matter what type of day I've had, how terrible I feel physically, or if my clothes are suddenly fitting a bit more snug, if I slip into a pair of heels, I'm cured. So the heels win over comfortable flats 99.9% of the time.
My husband is an avid deep sea fisherman, born on an island, and raised by the sea. He can't remember when he first acquired a pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses but he does know he's never purchased anything else since. I never understood it, likely because the ocean was so beautiful to my naked eye. I've been to most Caribbean islands and spent months on the beach, but seeing the ocean each time is like seeing it for the first time... the view never gets old.
Last week, on our first day at the beach, I decided to take my 2 year old boogie boarding for the first time, complete with my new Jackie O shades (black with mother of pearl accents, LOVELY!) when we were attacked by a rouge wave. It came out of nowhere and was 3 to 4 feet higher than the others that day. My choice was simple - hold the child - not the glasses and so there they went. Gone in an instant and our vacation had only just begun. Luckily, Mr. Sangster had a spare pair of shades to last me until we reached Kingston this week and I could replace my own.
The borrowed glasses never left my head. (Tommy Bahama, brown, polarized - say no more.) If ever I thought I had seen the ocean again and again for the first time, this truly was a new experience. All of the colors popped, the depth of the sea floor was visible from every angle, the clouds glowed whiter in the blue background and I was smitten. So yes, polarized lenses are a fantastic thing. Here's the dilema, why are all glasses sold with polarized lenses the opposite of attractive, at least from the ladies persepective? Not much time to research as we are still in Jamaica, but as soon as we get home, I will be on a mission to find a stylish pair I can call all my own. Should you find any retailers that sell something of the sort, please share.
Enjoy!
Instant Pocket
Instant Pocket.
Possibly the smartest travel aceessory yet. $6.95 for 3 - buy them here.
Best Caribbean Travel Apps for iPhone
This is a very ambitious post for me because I have not yet reached the ideal level of comfort one desires with today's technology. However, I am a recent convert to the cult of Mac and am enjoying the honeymoon stage with my iPhone.
I'll be taking a Caribbean Vacation for two weeks at the end of this month and I have begun my research for the apps I want to use on my trip. I've downloaded them, read the reviews, and tested them out as best I can from home. Check back in mid-April to see my reviews of each.
Skype - Who doesn't love Skype? Ok - I am sure there are plenty of you. In our house it is a staple because my husband and I have settled in a town where we have no family. Our relatives are keeping house everywhere from San Francisco, Jamaica, Italy, New Zealand & more. Skype keeps us in touch and allows our kids to see a live picture of their relatives. I've heard that the Skype App, when connected to a local Wi-Fi, will allow you to make free calls. Its FREE, let's see how it works on the beach!
The Coconut Connection by RumShopRyan - I'm satisfied just by the name, but guess what? Ryan is a real person and is quickly developing his own cult of follows in the virtual Caribbean. His app will keep you connected to his Caribbean themed tweets and his guidebook coverage of the islands. The icon alone is worth the download, plus its FREE.
Oanda Currency Converter - US Dollars are widely accepted in the Caribbean but most avid travelers will agree, you will save a few pennies if you pay with local currency. We also like to exchange currency as a way to educate our daughter on the process. Good news! The Oanda Converter has exchange rates loaded for the Eastern Caribbean Dollar & Jamaican Dollar. FREE!
Gate Guru - I like to eat, so I like this one. GateGuru let's you know what restaurants are located near your gate and features a review forum so you can let others know how much you loved or hated your meal. It has listings for ATMs, children's play areas, and First Class Lounges too. This one likely won't have info on locations available at Caribbean airport we are arriving at - but should help us navigate the new terminal we are flying out of. FREE for now.
Flashlight - Have you ever been in the Caribbean when the power goes out? If it happens on your first or second night, you might not be familiar with your surroundings and after a few cocktails, this could be very dangerous. The Flashlight app will come in very handy. FREE!
Postman - Create and send virtual postcards to let friends & family know how your trip is going. This one is a tough sell for me, not because of the $1.99 price but because I am a huge fan of pretty paper and prefer pen & ink. However, this app would be a great tool for a bride or groom having a Destination Wedding and wanting a unique way to update any relatives unable to make the trip.
Are there any others you've found helpful on your Caribbean adventures?
Enjoy,
And the winner is...
A winner was drawn on October 16th at 12noon by the hands of my precious daughter... DESI - step right up and collect your prize! (Really, just email me your mailing address!)
Wet Bikini Bag from Uncommon Goods.
See you all again next time!
My First Giveaway... Blue Mountain Coffee - WINNER!!
CONGRATS TO PS.ERIN... MY KIDS PICKED YOU AS THE WINNER OF MY FIRST GIVEAWAY! SO LET ME KNOW... BEANS OR GROUND!
It's my birthday... but I want to give something to you! Every time I go to Jamaica, I take orders from my friends for Jamaican Blue Mtn Coffee. It is simply the BEST and once you've tasted it, no other coffee will compare. This liquid gold sells for around $50USD a pound here in the states. (anything less is a blend - don't be fooled.) I have an extra bag and would like to give it away! So, if you post a little comment on this post letting us know if you have had Jamaican coffee before, or place a link to this blog on your blog and email me, you will be entered! Giveaway deadline - midnight, May 8, 2009.Jamaican Eats
Imagine my surprise as I browsed the racks at Barnes & Noble for my monthly magazine run when I came across an entire magazine dedicated to Jamaican (& Caribbean) cuisine? Of course it came home with me and my husband and I both read it cover to cover within a few days. We found a few familiar faces and even more familiar recipes... but a few new ideas too - like jerk flavored popcorn or nuts to snack on! Check it out here.
Day 11 - Caribbean Christmas Gifts - Coconut Cake
The Black Hound Bakery in New York is renowned for its gourmet goodies. Their Coconut Cake is full of the rich tropical coconut common in the Caribbean. If someone on your list loves coconut, order up one of these cakes today! 
Order Coconut Cakes here and enjoy!
Day 10 Caribbean Christmas Gifts - Walkers Woods
A small selection of these great products would make a great holiday gift! Most are under $5 so a thrifty gift this would be too!This sauce I dash on everything from rice to steamed veggies, fish and chicken:
I love a sweet chutney on anything fried or spooned on top of any savory potato dish: 
Whenever we throw a big party, people always ask if Mr. Sangster will be making his famous jerk chicken wings. He uses this sauce and cuts it with a little ketchup and honey so it isn't quite as hot and therefore kid-friendly too:
The mail order business of Walker Wood's website is currently down. But here in Atlanta, we have can find these products at both Kroger and Publix. Check your grocer's international aisle! Day 9 Caribbean Christmas Gifts - Tory Burch Beach Tote
What girl doesn't want the most fabulous tote on the beach? No matter how you might feel in a bathing suit, walking to your private palapa on the sand or past the pool bar with a snazzy tote lifts your spirits and just makes you feel good. This tote from designer Tory Burch is large enough to hold a plush towel, great novel, and all the bottles of sun protection needed to shield you from head to toe. It comes in two great beachy color patterns:
But it here for $250. Enjoy!
Day 8 Caribbean Christmas Gifts Vintage Nautical Prints
The Vintage Print Gallery is a great source for all sorts of prints. I fancy all things nautical and find their Shell Prints perfectly detailed and a classy way to bring a bit of beach into your home:
Day 7 Caribbean Christmas Gifts - Catherine Weitzman Starfish Necklace
Artist Catherine Weitzman draws her inspiration from nature and for this piece, her inspiration was likely a tranquil white sand beach trimmed by turquoise sea...
This lovely locket is filled with Aquamarines and made with watch crystal. It comes in silver or gold and 30% of all sales for this piece will go to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Buy it here!Day 6 Caribbean Christmas Gifts Jamaican Blue Mtn. Coffee
This coffee is as good as it gets. Rich, nutty, and full-bodied, a cup of Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is the best way to start any day or top off any fine meal. It is my favorite coffee. Period. One reason it is so good is because it does not need any fancy sprinkles or synthetic syrups. Simply black or with ca dash of ream & sugar, a cup of this java can't be beat.
Do be careful because many people market their product as Jamaican Blue Mtn., when it is actually a blend. Aside from reading the tiny print on the packaging, you can tell if you are buying a blend if the price is too good to be true because 100% Jamaican Blue Mtn. is usually in the ballpark of $50/pound. One safe place to buy these beans stateside is J. Martinez & Company. Enjoy!
Day 5 Aveda's Caribbean Therapy Collection
For so many reasons, I love Aveda. The #1 reason is because everything in that store smells so good! From spicy, sweet, fresh, to the rich tropical scents of their Caribbean Therapy collection. This collection includes everything needed for indulging the body, mind, and soul. Of course, I have a few favorites:
I am a sucker for soap in its old fashioned form, a large bar easily brought to a lather of scented foam:
And because I travel quite frequently, anything scented and in travel size is a must have:
Day 3 Caribbean Christmas Gifts - Royal Hut Signature Towels
These towels are pure luxe, plush and thick and brightly colored with authentic African batik trim. Royal Hut is owned by Mary Vinson, the well traveled wife of Caribbean icon Chris Blackwell. She puts the same passion into her products that Mr. Blackwell has put into launching famous music careers (note- Bob Marley) and boutique hotels (note - Island Outpost). At $130 each they are an indulgence indeed, but then again, you do get what you pay for in a towel. Buy them here. Enjoy!
Day 2 Caribbean Christmas Gifts - Tortuga Rum Cakes
If you've visited the Caribbean, you've likely come across this famous Rum Cake Company - Tortuga. They have been baking up these love cakes for over 24 years.
They come in all sorts of fun flavors like coconut, chocolate, and banana - but I say stick to the original Golden Rum Cake. It is rich, buttery, and delicious. I've been known to eat more than my share. Buy them here. Enjoy!
Day 1 Caribbean Christmas Gifts~ Liz Mannette Jewelry
Ms. Liz Mannette is a Caribbean artist generating quite a buzz these days. You absolutely must check out her website and online catalog for a luxuriously unique Caribbean gift. Her jewelry is created to honor and cherish the love for steel pan music.
Her bio just about sums up why this jewelry is oh-so-special...Born into the pan family, the Mannettes, in St. James, Trinidad, Liz is educated at Mucurapo Girls R.C. School and the Bishop Anstey Girls High School. In 1983, she first begins to play the steel pan with Pandemonium Junior Groove, a steel band of high school students from Bishop Anstey Girls, Holy Name Convent and Belmont Boys Secondary School. She tries out the bass pan, but finds the pan sticks a bit too heavy and is moved to the tenor pan. She is a skinny teenage, after all. Liz participates in the first Junior Steelband Music Festival in 1984, playing Moods, composed by the maestro of pan, Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe.
Liz migrates to New York to join her mother and sisters in 1984 and begins her university career at Brooklyn College, of the City University of New York. She joins her church steel band, Calvary Steel Orchestra (http://www.calvarysteelband.com/) and plays the triple guitar pan. Elizabeth is part of the band and church group that travels to England and Scotland in 1985.
After attaining a degree in Chemistry, Liz starts at Harvard Law School in 1988. A memorable experience for her occurs in 1990 when she invites a few friends to see the play Steel by Derek Walcott, which depicts the experience of life in Trinidad in the 1930s with a main character portraying Ellie Mannette. Her friends are impressed that she is from steel pan royalty.
India Hicks and Why I Adore Her
India Hicks is one-part fashion model, one-part author, and likely by way of inherited talent one-part interior decorator... but I think she is 100% FABULOUS! The daughter of celebrated decorator David Hicks, Ms. Hicks was likely raised surrounded by beautiful things. She has managed to fuse this connection to beauty with the Caribbean Islands and make her name synonymous with some of the best the region has to offer.A magazine worth craving and collecting, Domino, visited Ms Hicks at home in the Bahamas last year and took these photos:
This book is one of my favorites. The pages are almost falling out as it has been a trusty reference as I try to incorporate the simple, chic beach look into my own nest. 
Ms. Hicks has another book about island beauty. I have seen it, but for my island beauty fix I turn to the line she created for Crabtree & Evelyn... India Hicks Island Living Body & Home Collection. Splurge! Three-wick candles are a must if you really want to rock your atmosphere with three times the aroma! This lovely floral Causarina Candle does the trick and then some. The best $80 spent recently! (I will now find out if my husband reads this blog...)
I miss, miss, miss the Caribbean constantly and enjoy items that bring a little bit of the Caribbean into my Atlanta life. The rich and warm scents of this Spider Lily Body Wash remind me of my favorite times in the tropics.
NEWSFLASH - Crabtree & Evelyn recently launched India's newest collection, India Hicks Island Night and therefore the Island Living Collection is on SALE on HERE! (Just in time for the holidays...)And then there is The Landing, a true Boutique Hotel on the Northeast Coast of Eleuthera. All 7 of the hotel's rooms were designed by Ms. Hicks. The hotel is easy to get to with daily flights from Miami to Eleuthera - but still far enough away from it all...
Product Review - Sea Bags
My love of travel long surpassed my first love - fashion. Perfect timing too. While I could never give up traveling, regardless of how low the economy tanks, spending $400 on shoes just doesn't make sense right now. (So, carry on fellow vacationistas and chunk that $400 towards your depleted travel fund!)I love finding objects d'travel that combine my two loves. Sea Bags are just that, and GREEN to boot! Cushy day bags with flexible rope straps and cool nautical graphics, perfect for the beach or the market, and made from recycled sails. Sea Bags offers bags made from newer sails and a very chic vintage collection too.
This one would make a super cute goodie bag for Destination Weddings:
One from their vintage line:
