Eat, drink & look good
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Healthy holiday
Health & Wellbeing for Female Travellers.
Guest writer: Natasha Ahmad, yoga guru
While on the move it is important to have a routine which keeps us functioning at our best without taking too much of our time to sustain.
Here are a few tips on how us ladies can stay healthy while travelling the big wide world, whether it be a 2 week vacation, business trips, or back packing round the globe.
Exercise is a must for a healthy life but this should not be a chore.
It is always better to undertake an exercise plan which is practised often, no matter how short, rather than drudging through a lengthy training programme once every so often. The first option will not only keep the energy flowing through the system more efficiently but after a certain amount of time, getting on the mat, for example, will happen without you having to muster up the initial push, especially if you can keep it to the same time every day.
A little Yoga goes a long way.. Inspirational!
If you are flying it is advisable to stay away from anything that is over stimulating like back bends, but to practise, instead, something that is grounding (seeing as you will be off the ground) like strong leg stances and hip work. Squats are ideal especially at a slow pace, nothing too fast moving as it will aggravate your ability to stay centred when combined with the flying.
Stay hydrated.
Again, little and often is the key and drinking hot water is much better for you. Cold drinks are a shock to the system and the body will have to waste unnecessary energy in warming it up. It is especially not advisable to drink cold drinks with meals as the fat in the food will solidify when it comes into contact with cold fluids.
Drink & look hot
A large part of the travel experience is most certainly tasting the local cuisine. It would be sacrilege to abstain from this in order to watch ones weight. The best way round the dilemma is to make your largest meal as close to midday as you can. This is when your digestive powers are at their strongest so your body will have the best chance of assimilating the food no matter how decadent (ginger tea, before a meal, is a good way to aid the digestion process but should be avoided during menstruation or if one suffers from heat disorders). The evening meal should be light and give yourself at least two hours to digest before you plan to sleep.
Finally, a few words on our moon cycle are necessary.
While women have come to look at that “time of the month” with disdain, it is important to remember that a healthy regular menstrual cycle is the key to a healthy life, especially in later years. It is a time when the toxins and other filth which have been collecting in the blood can be expelled; a system of purification for both mind and body. It is also partly thanks to this monthly process that women live longer than men. Healthy menstruation regulates our many rhythms and realigns us with Nature time and again. During this time rest as much as you can and stay away from vigorous exercise especially during the first three days, or when the flow is at its most heavy.
Be gentle to yourself too!
Supine yoga poses with support are most beneficial like lying on the floor with a pillow under the back, knees bent wide and soles of the feet touching (supta baddhakonasa). Another great pose is to sit on the floor, legs wide and folding forward with as much support under the chest to make you comfortable (upavishtakonasana).
Happy travels!
Fantastic rainy day ideas… for Byron Bay
What a great opportunity to showcase the best of what Australia has to offer – rail, hail or shine. I was fortunate enough to experience Byron in the middle of summer, during a tropical thunderstorm. That meant days of rain, humidity with sporadical peaks of sunshine. However, with help from Evolution Concierge & Tourism Australia the weather didn’t stop me from having lots of fun!
Headed to Byron for a tan, surf and relax? Aren’t we all! If the weather isn’t on your side… here are a few suggestions to keep you and your travel buddies sane…
Harvest - Sunday Session
Top local Byron produce
Join the friendly and multi-talented team at Harvest for an amazing seafood feast.
Try: Get stuck into the moroccan flavoured wood-fired baked salmon. If you want to recreate this at home, make sure you have a wood-fired oven, cover and let the ashy smoke get absorbed into the fish – its how they create the flavour! Partner up with a gorgeous Pinot
Shopping in Bangalow
A must on the weekend. Checkout the farmers markets early for great local produce, sample the gorgeous fresh fruits and veggies and dont miss the great brick-a-brack at the back of the markets. Here you’ll find endless rows of interiors and homewares for your next creative project.
Try: the tomatoes from the farmers markets, and purchase from the pharmacy – they stock Missoni, Laura Mercier, Diptyque and all things fabulous
What a surprise..the shopping here is brilliant!
look good in and out of the surf
Can’t get more princess that a stylish surf lesson… well the instructor isn’t exactly stylish, but he defintely knows how to surf, and even better knows how to teach! Theres no better place to try surfing than Byron. Just looking at the strong, lean surfers will make you envious… its also a great hangover cure (or so I’ve been told).
Most of the students are actually women – so you won’t feel out of place.. everyone is there to have fun.
Try: it at least once!
Byron-style Spa
Kiva Spa- Mullum(bimby)
What better way to embrace the rain than an outdoor spa! Part undercover, watch the rain fall beside you as you move through the Spa Circuit. From the Sauna, to the open-air shower and plunge pool, ending with an indulgent warm spa.
Theres no better way to feel detoxed, without spending a fortune.
Try: Spa Circuit followed by hour long massage
Well deserved pampering session @ Kiva
Get moving.
Explore the lighthouse and get some fresh air by the sea. Find out more about Byrons history and why the lighthouse is the pilar of this town.
Put on your Nike trainers and get ready to climb up the hill or stairs until you reach the highest point in Byron. With breath-taking views – you may even get lucky and see a whale or two. Ask for a tour to the top of the lighthouse and checkout the giant light that continues to spin 24hrs a day… its like walking into a history book.
Delish dinner. One place you just cant pass is the Balcony.
AN icon in Byron, the stylish, yet relaxed Balcony in Byron is the number one place in the centre of Byron which caters for all your cocktail needs, regardless of the time in the day or night. The food is fantastic, with tapas-style portions, it enables you to order at lesuire. Spend a few hours there with a great group of friends, or go solo, and by the end of the night – you’ll have made a few anyway.
Try: Expresso Martini or Margaritas
No better way to end the day and get the night started... Byron style
The aforementioned activities, events and locations are just skimming the surface of what Byron has to offer… whatever time of the year it is you’ll have a blast.
For ideas on accommodation… check out the options under “Sleep”
For more info on Evolution Concierge Byron Bay and how they can turn your holiday from stressful to stress-free check out this link: Evolution Conceirge
At your service
What to do on Australia Day? Byron Bay Bliss!
The perfect Australia Day? Exploring Byron Bay! Thanks to Tourism Australia and Evolution Concierge I’ll be checking out Triple J Hottest 100 countdown, reviewing the Day Spas and even getting into the Surf…
stress-free style
Byron Bay famous for its hippies, relaxed lifestyle and beaches. Nothing more glamourous than being stress-free. Now… what to pack for the stylish quick getaway… inspired by Beyonce in Camilla!
More details to follow soon!
The captivating Cape
Life in Cape Town.. a snap-shot perspective
Guest writer: Davina Rapaport
Background:
When I had the opportunity to live and study in South Africa I jumped at the chance. Life in Africa doesn’t march along; it dances to an entirely different rhythm.
The spirit of South Africa is palpable, so much so that I noticed it the minute I landed at OR Tambo airport in Jo’burg. The diverse mix of languages, ethnic groups, religions and political views makes South Africa a truly mixed bag and fascinating to unravel.
Coming from Australia, I found the African influence exotic and captivating. There is truly no more bewitching place that South Africa… It casts a spell on you and once you fall in love with Africa, you’ll dream of coming back again and again.
The People:
There are no more sociable, friendly and welcoming people on earth that South Africans. In no other country in the world can a person step off the plane not knowing a single soul on the entire continent and within a few weeks have made lifelong friends. Their ‘joie de vivre’ and magnanimity makes for fun moments and hilarious experiences. South African’s know how amazing their country is, and rather than being snooty about it, they’re so proud, happy to show it off and will make sure you’ll enjoy it as much as they do.
What to see & do:
South Africa is a traveller’s paradise, offering almost everything for everyone.
Between Table Mountain and the stunning beaches of Cape Town, Kruger National Park, the scenic Garden Route, the majestic Drakensburg mountains, the Wild Coast and the beating heart of South Africa – Jo’burg, South Africa kept me entertained for a year, and even then I felt that I barely scratched the surface. The best way to see South Africa is on the road giving you ample opportunity to see the country, interact with the locals and go at your own (often meandering) pace… It doesn’t take long before you slip into the African way of life.
The gut wrenching history in the Apartied Museum, the colours of Bo Kaap, the sights, sounds and spirit of Soweto (home of the only street in the world that boasts two former Nobel Prize Winners), the vibe of the Biscuit Mill, the gorgeous drive out to Chapman’s Peak, the blood pumping climb up Table Mountain, the chic eateries at Melrose Arch, the inviting water at Durban’s beaches, the tantalising opportunity to go wine tasting in Stellenbosch and Franshoek and the simple joys of having a laugh with locals mean that a visitor’s days will be as jam packed or as relaxed as they wish.
South Africa offers a diverse range of cosmopolitan activities. The amazing clubs, restaurants and bars will keep all visitors amused, satisfied and in good spirits. South Africans love to socialise, so you’ll find an interesting gathering or a “joll” (party) any time you want.
Amazing Nightlife in Cape Town
Crime:
You can’t plan a trip to South Africa without addressing the crime factor. It’s a prevalent issue for all travellers and locals alike. In Johannesburg it IS as bad as people say but it’s not insurmountable. In Cape Town and elsewhere in South Africa travellers need to have their wits about themselves. I was fortunate and didn’t have a single bad experience in South Africa – I never felt unsafe. That being said, I never put myself in a position where I would feel unsafe. Even though my apartment was 3 blocks away from three of the best clubs in Cape Town, I never walked home. That being said, even in Cape Town I’ve had friends who have been the victims of theft, had their apartment’s burgled and even experienced assault.
The driving factor of the crime rate is the unequal distribution of wealth. The distance between the very wealthy and the very poor is heartbreakingly disproportionate. The scary thing about Cape Town and South Africa is that a visitor could completely avoid the poverty and think that all of South Africa is Sandton, Sandhurst and the glamour of the Atlantic Sea Board in Cape Town. For travellers to really see the underbelly of South Africa they need to seek it out. Seeing the shanty towns and slums are a tragic and eye opening experience, but essential to understand the realities of South Africa. To truly grasp the resilience of the African spirit take a tour of Soweto which was the epicentre of the anti-Apartied fight. In Cape Town, a trip to ‘Mzolies’ restaurant in the township of ‘Guguletu’ is essential. This fun outdoor, restaurant / bar / dance party allows you to get up close and personal to a completely unique African experience (just be sure to leave well before dark).
A reason to try it yourself:
Despite its controversial past, South Africa is soaring like a phoenix to great heights. Perhaps it’s the promise of greatness to come that keeps South Africans infused with relentless energy. It’s contagious. Before long, tourists will find themselves tapping their feet to African beats, the honking horns of the local minibus taxis, and the infectious rhythm of their 11 official languages.
South Africa can at lift you up and make your spirit fly but also break your heart at the same time… a world away from any other destination. But isn’t that the point? A truly unique and special country, in every aspect.
Christmas Travel Beauty Giveaway!
How exciting! princesswithabackpack.com and The luxury beauty brand Model’s Prefer have an awesome last minute Christmas travel beauty giveaway competition…
Look fresh faced when you arrive at any destination
Just click ‘Like’ on Princess with a Backpack Facebook page and you could win a fantastic travel-beauty Kit which includes fab stylish and useful products for your next holiday..
Prize includes;
Illuminizors Bronze and Illuminate
The new Models Prefer Illuminizors feature a non-sticky formula and are enriched with Vitamin E and anti-aging benefits to give the skin a radiant appearance. Available in two shades: Illuminate and Bronze.
Retractable Eyeliner
This water-proof, smudge-proof eyeliner creates perfect lines using a specially designed tip for precise application that will last all day.
Mini Nail File
These 12 portable nail files are perfect size for your handbag or makeupbag, ready for emergency repairs at any time.
Look like a star with the right tools
No excuses on your next getaway of looking desheviled… Model’s Prefer and princesswithabackpack.com have great ideas to keep you looking stylish… always.
Enter now! Competition closes 23rd Decemeber 2011
Made for Montreal
Guest Writer & Stylist: Davina www.geniusstyle.com.au
I heart Montreal….
I spent two great years living in Montreal, Canada and it truly is a lovely town. The old world cobblestone streets mixed in with modern cosmopolitan edge – this is a city that may not be well known for being a shopping destination, but these are four of the best stores and malls that the locals love.
Harmony Code
123 Mount Royal Ave. West
Montreal H2T 2S9
For vintage accessories, boho dresses, and gorgeous embellished sandals and flats, check out Harmony Code. Local designers are mixed in with handmade pieces from Brazil, Greece and Turkey, and it’s easy to take a few of the gorgeous accessories to jazz up a simple outfit or go all out with free spirited style that’s chic and well priced.
Holt Renfrew
1300 Sherbrooke Street West
Montreal H3G 1H9.
A stone’s throw from the Museum of Fine Arts, Holts is a designer label lover’s haven (including these Kate Spade heels that I’d gladly live on cereal for the next month for – www.holtrenfrew.com). Holts Montreal has a complementary, yes complementary personal shopping service, a “Made to Measure” men’s suiting service and a gourmet café. If you’re not careful, you’re bound to go broke as a trip here is a day out in itself!
Vetements Old Gold (Heritage)
4357 St Laurent Boulevard
Montreal H2W 1Z8
Old Gold is a boutique with a unique mix of preppy chic clothing hand-picked by the owner from Swedish, Hong Kong and Tokyo designers along with accessories that can only be described as cool on another level (like this ear phone necklace http://oldgoldboutique.com/shop/ear-buds ). Old Gold is a must visit for items that reflect Montreal’s cool European-esque style that you can wear all over the globe.
Mall Champlain
2151 Boulevard Lapiniere
Brossard QC J4W 2T5
Finally for all things bargain, there’s the Mall Champlain, located 20 minutes over the Jacques Cartier Bridge into Brossard, featuring all the usual big name retail suspects such as Sears, Zara, The Bay, Aldo Shoes, H&M and great Canadian based stores like Style Exchange and Dynamite. Check out the website before you visit. The store directory has a great colour coded feature called Style Ethic that tells you which retailers support socially responsible shopping and environmentally friendly manufacturing!
A Note on the Language…
Even though it is a mark of respect to learn the language of another country before you visit, do not be too intimidated or worried if your French is not up to par before you visit Montreal, almost all stores and the people are bilingual and are usually very excited to hear a foreign accent!
Quebeccers are the most friendly, accommodating people and sights and shopping aside, the warmth of the people in Montreal and their enthusiasm to show off their beautiful city is what will make your experience in Montreal unforgettable.
For more from Davina check out: www.geniusstyle.com.au
On Track.. Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia
Block Colour Inspiration, Hanoi
Summer Hues, KL Malaysia
from Vietnam with Love
The Best You only better – Tips for Healthy Eating when Traveling.
I feel my best when I’m travelling. Lighter, happier… life is easy and fun! Exploring exotic places, meeting interesting people, experiencing things you just don’t get at home. And of course, finding new taste sensations.. are all part of the thrill.
You would think being away from your usual routine, following your diet and regularly exceriseing would mean ‘fallin go ff the ‘health band-wagon’ but it often works in the reverse. Your’re distracted by the sights and busy travelling schedule and meal times are often erratic, but I can guarantee you’ll listen to your body more – Hungry? eat. Not hungry? keep on with your day. There’s little time to waste snacking from the fridge.
However, there are those times when you’re at the airport or at a rest stop and you’re really hungry. Sound familiar? If you’re faced with this problem, try to plan ahead. Thankfully, perfection isn’t necessary, you just need to keep these easy tips in mind to healthy on the road.
dont fall into the trap of getting hungry and eating everything or anything!
1. Pack some healthy snacks.
Remember economy food on an airplane usually sux. So unless you’re travelling business-class, remember to either pre-select your meal (usually do this online when booking your seat) or grab something before hoping on the plane. A take-away salad is perfect idea.
Roasted almonds or other nuts are my go-to snack, but pack whatever works for you. This is for peace of mind so if you get stuck, you won’t have to resort to greasy fast food.
2. Embrace eggs for breakfast.
Breakfast in cafes, restaurants and hotels can be a wonderful experience. Take the time to seek out places known for putting on a good spread to make sure you’re getting your protein in the mornings.
3. Sampling a little is better than going without.
Being a slave to your diet isn’t a fun way to travel. After all, part of the joy of visiting new places is to experience the culture, including the food
4. Remember the 80/20 Rule.
If you’re trying to be 100% healthy all the time, it can make life on the road much more stressful and make you want to give up all together. Remember Eat Pray Love movie with Julia Roberts? A little pizza, yummy pasta and good wine are all part of traveling so enjoy these indulgences- just not every day. Balance out a rich french breakfast with fruit or salad for lunch, and a great bike ride in between – and you’ll have nothing to worry about.
Just like Julia, embrace everything about your destination
5. The golden rule for eating out.
Cut the carbs in 1/2 and double the amount of veggies.
Here’s a few examples:
- order a tomato-based pasta with seafood and a large salad and vegies to fill up on.
- order a burger or sandwich, ditch ½ the bun or roll and ask for extra lettuce and tomato.
- order a ‘naked’ burrito, its all the healthy bits of Mexican food without the wrap – oh and ditch the cheese too
6. Water first.
Fairly often we confuse hunger with thirst. Before you over do it because you think you’re starving, drink some water, take a few deep breaths and relax. Then evaluate how hungry you really are.
It’s all about making smart choices and taking the time to think. Don’t eat less, just make better choices. Travel is an amazing opportunity, and should not a barrier to your health. With this planning and knowledge you will come back from you’re holiday looking more relaxed and healthier than ever. Enjoy!
Fashion Factor with Rachel Zoe
Rachel Zoe’s must have items for a chic weekend away in Paris…
Packing for Paris with Rachel Zoe. Rachel gives us her clever tips on how to pack for a weekend away in Paris. Light – with key items and a lot of mix n match, Zoe always gets it right.
For a daytime outfit make sure you have the following:
1. brilliant denim: slick and skinny, and fun and flared.
www.thesartorialist.com shows how to do denim
2. black v-neck tee; the black will give you that European cool girl factor.
shopping in paris with Zoe!
3. Layer on a cape and wide-brimmed hat—both of these options ensure that you’re warm against the cool air when atop the Eiffel Tower.
4. Footwear department, choose black wedge booties
5. Accessorize with a cross-body bag and a pair of mod shades, and no one can tell you that you’re not à la mode!
icons of fsahion
Night-code:
1. Short and sultry LBD.
2. Accessorise with a patent crocodile belt.
3. Throw on a classicleather jacket
Perfect layering
4. Packing light – so wear the same wedge booties from earlier—they work wonders as a day to night shoe.
5. Break up your all-black look with a standout snakeskin clutch and you’re ready to take the Paris nightlife by storm.
vanessa - oozes style
Amazing advice from our fave stylist. Miss RZ!
Playin’ Polo like a girl
