A view of the Sicilian countryside from our rental car
Know that you’ll be cruising around in a rental on your next vaca? Call your car insurance carrier and ask what type of coverage you receive with car rentals. In many cases, you’ll get the same coverage (and deductibles) you receive on your own car when renting a car for pleasure. Don’t like the answer? Call your credit card companies as they often offer coverage too. But, take the time to check with them all as it can vary from card to card. Also, be sure to ask about exclusions which can sometimes include sports cars, SUVs, or vehicles rented outside the U.S. Knowing will put you more an ease when you’re on the road and could save you the extra money on car rental insurance.
Doral Golf Resort & Spa, Miami
Recently, we had dinner with a friend from out of town at the Doral Golf Resort & Spa here in Miami. Though the modern look of the steakhouse, Mesazul, looked inviting from the lobby, we decided to grab a quick, casual bite at their Champions Sports Bar & Grill with our 2 year old in tow. It was clearly the best choice as it overlooked one of the resort’s gorgeous championship golf courses which made the perfect backdrop during our meal and was an exciting place for our son to explore once he got antsy. The last time we were at the resort was about 3 years ago when we came for the annual golf tournament. But as we stepped out onto the deck we were quickly reminded, it is beautiful at the Doral. I don’t play golf, or any other sport actually, but I do love the look and feel of a country club and the greens at the Doral Golf Resort were perfection. Everyone outside looked so relaxed and at ease…a group of men enjoying a pitcher of beer and a bite after a round of golf and women and kids lounging in their swimwear. Our meal was quite tasty too and included everything from a juicy burger, grilled chicken sandwich, chicken fingers, to a fresh salad. But it’s the ambiance that you will remember…and which will bring you back for more. Word is it will be taken over by the Trump Hotel Collection come June and a renovation is in the works. We’re excited to revisit come Fall!
We like these Huggies Natural Care Wipes in fun stripes (and no characters)!
Being the mom of a 2 year old, I never leave home without baby wipes. But even for those who don’t have to deal with diapers or kids who use their t-shirts as napkins, it’s smart to always have some on hand…especially when traveling. We all have our klutzy moments and when you’re away from home, you need to protect the limited wardrobe you have more than ever. Granted, some things will have to go to the dry cleaner immediately in order to salvage it. But in many cases, baby wipes work better than any stain removing stick we’ve tried at getting a stain out of that fabulous outfit that you’ve had on for 5 minutes. Our advice, just try it first on a spot that’s not seen (like an inside hem) to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric. Once you know it’s safe, scrub away on that pen mark or tomato sauce. You’d be amazed at the power of a wipe.
Metallic Luggage Tags by Graphic Image in Silver & White Gold
When filling out your luggage tags, list a cell phone number but skip the address line so no one knows what home is sitting empty. Also, ladies, just list a first initial and last name so no one knows if it’s “his” or “her” luggage…not always, but usually, women are more likely to pack the valuable, designer stuff!
Miami Seaquarium
This past Saturday we met up with some friends from NY at the Miami Seaquarium. Pulling into the parking lot, I was wishing we were spending the day with everyone poolside at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne down the street instead. Actually, the Sony Ericsson tennis tournament (also down the street) sounded better too but with a 2 year old, I knew that was out of the question. I do understand the attraction of the Seaquarium when you’re not from Florida…everyone associates Florida, it seems, with theme parks and when you have kiddies, it’s the easiest place to entertain. But forgetting the stroller and being almost 7 months pregnant wasn’t helping my enthusiasm for a day at the park. All it took, though, was one ecstatic “Look, Mommy, a blue fish!” from our little Rocco and we knew we were getting the annual pass. We had a great time watching all the kids’ delight seeing the dolphins leap in the air and peering at the “scuba divers” and tropical fish in the 30,000 gallon tanks. I knew my husband was even feeling it when he bought the stuffed dolphin for our son because “he really wants it”…even though Rocco was calling it a shark. If Rocco had this much fun there, I see a trip to Atlantis in our near future. If you’re in Miami with kids, I’d suggest heading there…especially if they’re 5 as they’ll be old enough for the Dolphin Encounter. Here are a few shots from the day…
The Flipper Dolphin Show
Rocco & Mommy
Rocco & Daddy
Super preggers and in Lake Tahoe (with my stepmom) for my sister’s wedding in 2009
Flying takes a toll on the body even when you’re at your strongest. So, taking a flight when pregnant (like I am) can be pretty miserable. Remember these things to make your trip as smooth (and comfortable) as possible:
- Grab a bottle of water to stay hydrated and get an aisle seat…for your frequent trips to the bathroom
- Walk up and down the aisle every half hour to avoid “cankles” and leg cramps
- Wear layers to avoid being too hot or too cold (which, believe it or not, actually does happen to some preggos)
- Check all bags (even rolling carry-ons) as you’ll be surprised how many people either don’t notice your bump or don’t care enough to offer you some help. If you must carry on, ask ANYONE for help hoisting bags onto the security belt and in overhead compartments and don’t feel bad about it. No lifting, mamas!
- Wear shoes with a bit of give (a cute sneaker is probably best) because your feet WILL swell..and don’t even think of taking them off because you’ll never get them back on.
- Avoid any flight after 36 weeks…let’s not cause any emergency landings, ladies, and by then a trip across the room will be exhausting enough.
Meet Ashley
Former NYC fashion industry girl, forever traveler, foodie at heart, and now Mom in Miami. My blog, Arrive Chic, covers the style I find in everyday life both on the road and at home, often with my two energetic little boys in tow.
