The rain didn’t keep us down in Miami while celebrating my dear friend, Kristy’s, last days of single girlhood.  While dancing to a few Cuban beats and putting on our red lipstick to get ready for a big night of salsa dancing, we called up a private bartender to one of our rooms at The Soho Beachhouse and had him mix up a libation…or five.  I think he was a bit intimidated by all of the girl chatter that he forgot to stock his barcart properly!  Poor thing.  But, when you’re with a bunch of fun lovin’ girls in Miami, who’s talking about the menu?  ;)

Enchanted by the bosphorus. 

ONE FINE DAY IN TORONTO

A few weeks ago, I spent a bit of time in Toronto, a city that’s become almost a second home.  As soon as I get off the plane (or now a boat with Porter airlines), we head for the vintage shops on Queen Street and Kensington Market and usually end up in friendly chatter with a shopkeeper and fellow vintage lover that I now know on a first name basis.   In the Distillery District you can watch young creatives at work.  Farmer’s Markets burst with colorful fruits and candied jams.  New cafes are sprouting up and bringing innovation to old world coffees.  The culinary scene is seeing talent that could rival New York’s.  After a day of wandering around, my perfect end to an evening is with a glass of wine catching up with old friends.  

As a New Yorker, I came back with a much lighter pocket book, heavier suitcase, and a bit of that famous Canadian hospitality rubbing off on me.

This is my version of the perfect day in Toronto.

I just realized I never posted this video on my blog.  One weekend, four of us decided to jump on a plane and head to the French Riviera.  Here’s a taste of those glamorous few days!

I spent a few months in Italy this summer traveling around.  I hope this gives you a sense of the beauty of the summer and why I have such a love affair with that country.

Baci baci….Vi