Ava Pierce: The Blog - Lounge. Rant. Find your inner bitch.: Ava's Faves

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Tuesday, September 15, 2009

5 Things I Totally Love

Today's Annoyance: Eternal pessimists
Mantra of the Day: Life is so wonderful when you focus on the positive.

1. Morning. I know that a lot of people really hate mornings but I love mornings because I feel so energized (sans coffee, I might add). Everything seems new and fresh; it's like having a blank slate to begin anew every 24 hours.

2. Traveling! Did I even need to add this?

3. Going solo. I totally love spending days all by myself. Going to a movie, wandering thro

ugh a bookstore, going for a nice walk, people-watching, or having a nice meal at a restaurant. It's really cathartic to unplug, be quiet and just enjoy what's going on around me.

4. Passive income. Is there anything better than making money while you sleep?

5. Lengthy conversations with my friends and family over an awesome meal. I just love reminiscing, learning new things, discussing anything and everything. The whole world just seems to melt away at times like this.

What are some of your favorite things?

[IMAGE: Courtesy of stock.xchnge]

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Ava's Faves: Dinner Parties

Today's Annoyance: Incompetent caterers
Mantra of the Day: Find me a man who's interesting enough to have dinner with and I'll be happy. - Lauren Bacall

Hosting a dinner party is wonderfully exhausting. Every element excites me, from the invitations to the menu, selecting a great theme, deciding what to wear, making the seating arrangements, choosing the music, stuffing the goodie bags...it's all pure bliss to me. Good food and drink, meeting new people and great conversation. These are the things that truly make life fabulous!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Ava's Faves: Trina Turk

Today's Annoyance: Mediocrity
Mantra of the Day: Don't just look for rainbows. Be the rainbow!

It can never be said that designer Trina Turk shies away from color. Every one of her collections bursts with beautiful hues and classic style. Long live Trina Turk!

[IMAGES: Courtesy of Trina Turk]

Monday, July 20, 2009

Ava's Faves: Gelato

Today's Annoyance: People who merely exist and never truly live
Mantra of the Day: I will always find a way to realize my dreams.

It's National Ice Cream Month and yesterday was National Ice Cream Day. Think I'm kidding? Click here. I never kid a bout something as serious as a celebration of ice cream. And while I realize that ice cream and gelato are not the same thing, the similarity is close enough for me.

My absolute love of gelato knows no boundaries. I actually went on a walking tour through Milan, sampling different flavors of the savory delight at nearly every gelateria that I passed. My favorite flavors are Vanilla Choco-Cookie, followed by Stracciatella. Just too good!!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Melt]

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Ava's Faves: Royal Myconian Hotel & Resort

Today's Annoyance: Abruptly-ended vacations
Mantra of the Day: I understand why Greece is the cradle of civilization.

Heaven really does exist. You can get there by checking into the Royal Myconian Hotel on the island of Mykonos (of course). Admittedly, I nearly wept when I had to check out of this hotel. I'm getting a little misty just thinking about it so take a look at these photos while I compose myself.

[IMAGES: Courtesy of Royal Myconian Hotel]

Monday, June 22, 2009

Ava's Faves: Herve L. Leroux

Today's Annoyance: Bumps and bulges
Mantra of the Day: I will some day own an entire season's collection of Herve L. Leroux dresses.

Formerly and famously designing under the name "Herve Leger", Monsieur Leroux continues to amaze with his ultra feminine and super chic designs. I personally don't care what name he goes by, he is simply wonderful. I'll let his work speak for itself.

[IMAGES: Courtesy of BCBGMAXAZRIA, C.O.C.A Style, Getty Images]

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Ava's Faves: Sun City, South Africa

Today's Annoyance: People who rely solely on mass-market news
Mantra of the Day: My own palace will resemble the Palace of the Lost City.

Anyone who tells you that there isn't magic and luxury in Africa has lied to you. For some strange reason (the media, perhaps?), some of our less-than-adventurous comrades still believe that the entire African continent is nothing more than a barren wasteland with rampant crime and wild animals running amok. These folks are sorely missing out on so many wonderful people, cultures, food and amazing experiences.

South Africa is a great country to begin your African adventures. I have been there a couple of times and I have enjoyed Johannesburg, Cape Town and Sun City. (Durban is the next South African city on my list.) Each place offers its own wonders.

In Sun City, I chose to stay at the Palace of the Lost City. Oh...my...goodness! Just look at it:

This resort is totally amazing! It's no surprise that it's one of the leading hotels in the world. The attention to detail. The exquisite design featuring sculptures, waterfalls, lakes and pools. The fantastic service. Great restaurants. The breathtaking views from the hotel rooms. Plus, you have quick and easy access to all of the other amenities in Sun City which include casinos, a movie theater, a golf course, an arcade, concerts, dance productions and other entertainment, a crocodile farm, a lion farm, the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, hot air balloon rides, and more.

One could say that it's no different than visiting any popular Westernized city but Sun City has its own special flavor. Don't let the modern flair hold you back from appreciating this gem that's only a 2-hour drive or a quick plane ride from Jo'burg. If you've been there, let me know what you think.

Peace and love.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Go2Africa]

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Ava's Faves: Cultural Fare

Today's Annoyance: Monotony
Mantra of the Day: I am a confessed foodie.

Have you ever thought about how life would be different without chow mein, tacos, lasagna or sweet potato pie? I'm sure we could survive but boy, would that suck. I can't imagine not savoring sushi, cheese naan, barbecue, chicken yakisoba, or souvlaki. Speaking of Greek food, what about spanakopita or Greek salad? Or, how about paella, chicken kiev, quiche, blackeyed peas, or Jamaican jerk chicken?

Sampling the local cuisine is enough to make travel worth every dime!

Ok, gotta go. Hungry now.

[IMAGES: Courtesy of Epicurious]

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Ava's Faves: La Perla

Today's Annoyance: Uncomfortable and unattractive undergarments
Mantra of the Day: I will not let the wind blow my skirt up to expose my frilly undergarments.

Will the ongoing battle between granny panties and thongs ever be settled? Probably not. Most women's lingerie collections will likely always include a combination of the two. I, for one, am a firm believer in luxe lingerie, whatever the style - be it full brief, thong, boy shorts, high cut or control briefs. My preference may partially result from years of my mom's insistence that I should always "wear the best possible underwear since you never know when you'll be in an accident". Yeah mom, or my guy wants a little more than a kiss goodnight. (wink, wink)

Anyhoo, I'm kinda guessing that the biggest reason for my love of luxe lingerie is that it makes me feel fantastic! Seriously, how could you possibly feel like crap when you're wearing La Perla? Hell, I feel good just looking at my La Perla undies. They're just so......pretty. The Italians know how to do everything just right.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of The Style Group]

Monday, May 4, 2009

Ava's Faves: Hotel Grande Bretagne - Athens, Greece

Today’s Annoyance: Narcissists

Mantra of the Day: Greece truly is the cradle of civilization.

Yes, the traffic has been known to suck in Athens but this luxe hotel will make you forget all about it. I’ve stayed at Hotel Grande Bretagne on several of my business and personal trips to Athens and I loved it every time. Great service, excellent views of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, located across the street from the Parliament on Syntagma Square and within walking distance of La Plaka. The hotel is also a member of the Starwood Hotels & Resorts. ‘Nuf said. It’s worth every penny. Go. NOW!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Starwood Hotels & Resorts]

Monday, April 27, 2009

Ava's Faves: Top 10 Travel Destinations

Today's Annoyance: That work gets in the way of my travels
Mantra of the Day: Only a few days 'til my next adventure!

As I was daydreaming about my next travel destination today, my mind wandered and I began to think of the most awesome places that I have visited so far. It was tough narrowing down the list but here goes (before I change my mind!):

1. Miami, Florida
2. Monaco
3. Cape Town, South Africa
4. Mykonos, Greece
5. Victoria Island, British Columbia
6. Sydney, Australia
7. Loja, Spain
8. San Francisco, California
9. Quebec City, Canada
10. Santorini, Greece

Just so you know, the list is not in any particular order. Later this week, I'll post my list of target destinations for the near future. In the meantime, post a comment and tell me your favorite travel destinations.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Ava's Faves: Greenopia.com

Today's Annoyance: People who have no regard for our planet
Mantra of the Day: I promise to be a greener citizen of planet Earth.

This is the 39^th anniversary of Earth Day! How are you celebrating? I, for one, am planning to accessorize our planet…by planting some trees. Far more than I “need” a new pair of Harry Winston earrings, the Earth needs more trees. I’m also going to donate some money to Earth Day Network. Aside from this day’s activities, I have already switched to energy-saving light bulbs and I regularly recycle plastic, glass, newspapers and magazines.

I also found this cool website – Greenopia - that provides city guides for eco-friendly businesses and products. They also have a Green Glossary, product ratings, brand ratings, and tips for living a greener life. There’s no excuse not to do our best to protect our planet. Happy Earth Day!

Friday, April 17, 2009

Ava's Faves: Ways to express your inner bitch

Today's Annoyance: Passive people
Mantra of the Day: When you care enough to say what you really think.

I'm a big fan of expressing myself, which I'm sure you've clearly figured out by now. I love to communicate via email, text, and even handwritten notes (an increasingly forgotten option). Suffice it to say that I have stacks of stationery from Papyrus. Since the advent of e-cards years ago, I love to send the occasional greeting for birthdays, holidays and sometimes just to say "Hey!". (Hoops and Yoyo, Maxine and Screaming Banshee are personal faves.)

Nowadays, it's cool because you can find greeting cards in just about any language for nearly any situation. Recently, I found two awesome sites that have cards for some of our least pleasant sentiments. (Awesome!) Nastee Notes carries a line of great cards "for the lil devil inside us". There are cards for when you want to call someone a gold digger, an idiot, a dim bulb, a whore, or a "biatch". They even have cards to say "Kiss my a**" and "Be nice. Stupid." (sigh) Such wonderful sentiments.

Then there's Someecards. It's like Hallmark for the smart ass or thoroughly pissed off. They've got an ecard for just about every occasion possible (and then some!), including holidays, weddings, confessions, breakups, goodbyes, and cries for help. Some of my faves are: "Your footwear is disgraceful."; Haven't heard back so I assume you're busy, flaky or dead."; and "If you ever disappeared while hiking, I'd remain with the search party until it started raining."

Don't they just make you want to send notes to everyone? lol

[IMAGE: Courtesy of NasteeNotes.com]

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Ava's Faves: Threading

Today's Annoyance: Old-school hair removal
Mantra of the Day: I don't remember life before threading.

This ancient form of hair removal is all the rage. I started having my eyebrows threaded several years ago and I simply cannot (and will not) live without it. Previously, I had tried tweezing and waxing; they just don’t compare. From what I’ve been told, threading is way better if you have sensitive skin. Plus, it’s fast and usually not expensive. Be sure to find someone who’s experienced though. Luckily, I’ve noticed more and more threading services offered in beauty salons and spas around major cities. I haven’t found a salon or spa with threading services in the south of France yet; if anyone knows of one, please, please let me know.

I did manage to find a self threading machine - the SunMaita Inc. Threader - but I'm a little hesitant to do it myself. If anyone has tried this, let me know.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of CLTV]

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Ava's Faves: Emirates Airlines

Today's Annoyance: Service that encourages air rage
Mantra of the Day: I want to travel like a CEO.

Commercial air travel sucks, for the most part. Yet, politicians and the media have been lambasting CEOs for their private air travel expenses. I agree that anyone who abuses their position, especially in such challenging economic times, is thoughtless and arrogant. However, can’t we all just admit that if we had the chance to fly privately, we would jump at it? I know I would. And until that time, I plan to fly Emirates Airlines as often as I can.

Until a recent trip to Dubai, Virgin Atlantic held the rank as my favorite airline. Don’t get me wrong, I still LOVE all things Sir Richard Branson, including his très fab airline. But, Emirates kicked it up a big notch. The whole experience was awesome, from the online reservation system to their in-flight entertainment systems (including electrical outlets on each seat to plug in your laptop). The food was not just edible, it was actually…dare I say it…tasty. I recently found out that they offer private suites and shower spas in First Class on some flights! (Are you kidding me?! I love it!) OK, that’s it, let’s go!!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of biztravelguru.com]

Friday, March 27, 2009

Ava's Faves: AirfareWatchdog.com

Today's Annoyance: Stupid airline fees
Mantra of the Day: The point in jet setting is getting there.

New York to Dublin, Ireland for $357 roundtrip. L.A. to Cabo San Lucas for $257 roundtrip. Chicago to Orlando for $173 roundtrip. These are some of the recent deals to be found at AirfareWatchdog.com. You can even sign up to receive free airfare alerts by email for good deals from your favorite local airports.

If I’m forced to fly commercially, naturally I want to get a good deal. This website does just that. Join me for some reasonably priced jet setting!

Friday, March 20, 2009

Ava's Faves: Biscoff Cookies

Today's Annoyance: Diets
Mantra of the Day: I promise, I'll only eat 10 cookies, for now.

Here’s a confession: I refuse to give up Biscoff cookies. If the economy continues to worsen, I’ll restrict my diet to tea and cookies. If you’ve ever had a Biscoff cookie, you know just what I’m talking about. I discovered these Belgian slices of heaven in Monaco. They’re typically served with tea or coffee after a meal. Mind you, I could eat them every day, all day.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Biscoff.com]

Friday, March 6, 2009

Ava's Faves: Persistence

Today's Annoyance: Whiners
Mantra of the Day: Try not. Do. Or do not. - Yoda (Star Wars)

I feel so inspired today! I read a news story about a 68-year old South Korean who has taken her written driver’s license exam a whopping 775 times without passing. Reportedly, she has spent thousands of dollars on the exam fees and she has no intention of stopping until she passes. While some think she’s crazy or feel sorry for her, she is totally upbeat and encourages others to keep trying until they reach their dreams. In my life, I have sometimes had a fear of failure which kept me from pursuing my goals because I was afraid of what people would think. This woman is so strongly focused on her goal to have her driver’s license that nothing seems to faze her, not even international exposure, pity or negative commentary. Bravo to her! She is my new hero.

[IMAGE: DailyContributor.com]

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Ava’s Faves: Moroccan Steam Bath

Today's Annoyance: Anything that makes me late for the spa
Mantra of the Day: I’m washing my cares away.

For the pleasure of my fellow jetsetters-in-training, I’ve decided to share some of my favorite things that make life much more enjoyable. (Just for the record, these are not paid endorsements.)

First up, Moroccan steam baths. Yes, ladies and gents, this is the best thing since sliced bread. This 2-hour long treatment was worth far more than I paid for it. It starts out with 15 minutes in the steam room. Then, you enter a bathing chamber where you experience an amazing body cleansing ritual for your face, scalp, body and feet. As if that’s not enough, you get a relaxing massage.

After my treatment, I’m almost sure that I heard the angels sing. Mind you, I’ve visited plenty of spas in my day and I’ve tried an endless number of treatments. A Moroccan steam bath is sheer heaven. I’m imagining how awesome it would be for a couple. Go now…take a bath…and enjoy!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]