Archive for June, 2008
How Alltop & Guy Kawasaki changed My Jet Set Life
You know when you have something in your gut, something that just tells you that you need to be doing something. Not the should be doing something (actually I try not to should all over myself). It’s the need , the burning desire, the feel it all over, reoccurring, like a boyfriend (or rash) you just can’t get rid of, it’s that passion.
I’ve always loved writing. In fact, my elementary school claim to fame was winning a Young Authors contest, but past that little first grade honor, I never really did anything with writing.
Fast forward about twenty years….My poor husband often had to hear about the next idea I wanted to write about. There was always a new topic, a new idea, a new book on the horizon, but nothing ever got onto paper. Why not you may ask? Well, there was a simple answer. The problem was, I wasn’t following my heart, at least not completely. I was choosing subjects that I was half interested in. Nothing I was truly passionate about.
Then one day, my husband said, "Why don’t you write a blog for our new company (Jet Set Life)?". I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy it, I wasn’t sure if I’d be any good at it but I said I’d give it a shot. After I wrote my first post I was hooked. I didn’t care if anyone read it, liked it or wanted to read more. I finally connected my two passions writing and traveling .
My first post was at the end of April 2008 and I got 28 views during the last six days of April. I’ve got to tell you that I was so excited for those first little 28 views (they were probably all my Mom and Dad), but I didn’t care. I caught the bug.
During the month of May I worked my way up to 1,139 views on my blog. This was due to my Twitter friends mainly. They’re the best!
Then I found the God of all blogs, Guy Kawasaki and Alltop . Alltop was the only place that I felt I could find blogs that I was interested in. What a concept, all the top blogs in one convenient location! Wow, I was in blog heaven: Tony Wheeler , NY Times Travel , Lonely Planet and of course mad chef Anthony Bourdain where all there.I couldn’t help but ask, why wasn’t I? So, let’s just say that by six o’clock that evening My Jet Set Life was on Alltop, at the very end, but on it never the less. It was an amazing start and I’ll never forget the chance that Master Guy Kawasaki took on this little baby blogger. I’ll always be in his debt.
Life since Alltop is amazing. In less than one month since my Alltop debut, my blog has almost tripled in views and I’ve written two guest blogs. More important than anything: I’m excited. I’m passionate. I’m thankful.
Thank you Guy, All Top and my Twitter Family for making my blog a success.
This is only the beginning of My Jet Set Life.
Yrs,
Kimberly
The Centurion Card, The Black Card: American Express’s Invite Only Credit Card
The Black Card , The Centurion Card …which ever name you use, it’s still the the most exclusive and elusive credit card in the world. I am seeing it more often than I used to, maybe it’s the circle I travel in, maybe it’s people are making more money, or possibly American Express is just inviting more card members than in years past (although American Express will not disclose how many members actually have Black Cards).
I see this remarkably heavy VIP card in restaurants, hotels and nightclubs all around the world, which is all very normal…but the other day I saw a lady use her Black Card to purchase a $2.00 espresso at Starbuck’s.
Hmmmm….so I have the Platinum Card (which I love , I know weird to love a credit card, but I do have strong emotional feelings toward my little platinum piece of plastic), and I’m wondering, what does it take to get a Centurion Card Invite? Do I need to be a Academy Award winning actress, maybe a politician with a very wealthy wife or a business mogul buying twenty-five thousand dollar dinners each week? Is getting a Black Card Invite harder than getting into A Small World ?
There is a lot of gossip about what it takes to get this card. I wanted to hear it directly from the source, so I contacted American Express directly. Here’s what they’re willing to disclose:
#1: The Centurion Card is Invite Only . There’s no online application and no, your friend that works for American Express probably can’t get you in. They have criteria (which they won’t completely discuss) but it definitely includes high spending. I asked them if the number was $250,000 a year and it was neither confirmed nor denied. But it was stated that they look at the card member overall, not just spending habits. Maybe it’s like dating where they just want someone with a great personality and enjoys long walks on a beach (except the beach will probably have to be in Bali if you’re hoping to get the Centurion Card).
#2: There is a one-time initiation fee of $5,000 billed to all new Centurion accounts. It’s kinda like becoming a member of a very private club with great benefits such as access to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, exclusive culinary and cultural events around the world. You also great incredible personalized service superior than any you could imagine and assistance in making your wildest dreams (and most ridiculous requests) come true!
#3: Each year the annual fee is $2,500. Again you’re paying for the benefits people. If you travel around the world, need super specialized service and all the other incredible benefits, it’s a small price to pay! Plus if you can get this card, you’re so loaded that you won’t even feel the hit of $2,500 once a year!
So there it is, The exclusive and elusive Black/Centurion Card. Now, go out spend enough, travel a lot and maybe someday this welcome kit will show up in your mailbox!
If for some reason you can’t qualify for the Black just yet, and you want to learn about the Platinum “love of my life” Card, here’s my Travel Ringer guest blog on the Platinum travel benefits.
# # # #
If anyone can get me an invite to the A Small World, I’d honestly love to have one if you’re willing to part with it! Just a little honest begging here, that’s all!
Kimberly
Top Eleven MUSTS for Your New Year’s Eve Trip to Punta del Este!
Punta Del Este, Uruguay. You may be asking, Uruguay…exactly where is that? Basically it is the white creamy center between the Oreo cookies of Argentina and Brazil! Now that you know where it is, you may be asking, why would I want to go there? I’ll tell you why. Punta del Este is the jewel of South America. It’s to South America what St. Tropez is to Europe. It’s glamorous, glitzy and yet somehow reminds me of Southern California! You only have a short season, really just the New Year’s Eve period to enjoy this sexy hot-spot.
Book your airafre early and brush up on your Spanish, because these are the Top Eleven things you won’t want to miss!
1. 4am at Medialunas Calentitas
Sweet and buttery croissants, served hot to the masses. Maybe you’re stopping by after a long day at Jose Ignacio Beach, or maybe it’s a late night snack at the see and be seen location in La Barra. Either way, they’re delicious and addicting.
2. Afternoon Parties on Bikini Beach
Bring your towel or rent a sun bed for around $250 USD. Buy drinks by the glass or by the pitcher! The DJ picks up around four o’clock and that’s when the party gets started. With such a late sunset, you could easily be partying on the beach until nine o’clock
3. Enjoy a long lunch at La Heulla
YOU NEED A RESERVATION! This open air restaurant is the hottest lunch spot in the Punta del Este area. It’s located on Jose Ignacio beach. This place will have a huge line starting around two o’clock. The food is fantastic, sushi, gazpacho, pizza, grilled meats and fresh fish. The best part about this place is the people watching!
4. Join the hot bodies on Jose Ignacio Beach
I don’t suggest eating the La Huella pizza or the Medialunas Calentitas before heading to this beach. The bodies here are hard and tan. This is an ultra chill beach. Again, you can either rent a sun bed or bring your towel. This is the beach playground of the Punta del Este jet set.
5. Eat dinner at Marismo at 11pm
Imagine driving in Uruguay down a tiny dirt road with no street lights, no signs, then all of a sudden you come upon a man with a flashlight waving you to a parking spot on the side of the road. The restaurant itself looks like a tree house wonderland. A bonfire, sand floor, narrow wooden steps, superb food and cash only. (Phone 598 48 62273)
6. Have a little ice cream at Freddo
Argentina’s frozen export has made it’s way to the shores of Uruguay. Tons of flavors and modern decor make this ice cream shop top in Punta del Este.
7. Try getting into Tequila
Honestly, trying to get passed the bouncers is more fun than being inside this VIP haven. It’s like a South American version of the original Studio 54. The club is small and rather empty until at least 3am. Once you get inside, you realize that it’s like any other night club.
8. Score some global beats from Diablito
from the outside of this La Barra shop you may think it’s a surfer clothing store, but go inside and you’ll see a great collection of music from around the world. My favs include the Bossa series. Like Bossa n’ Roses, Bossa n’ Marley, Bossa n’ Stones.
9. Get a new trendy new outfit at Kosiuko
La Barra has great little clothing shops. This one is one of my favorites for men and women. You can find great trendy belts, shorts, purses for men and women. Do worry, these fashions will work Stateside.
10. Have Clerico and a sandwich at Flo Café.
Clerico is Sangria’s sexier summer sister! Mix a little crisp summer white wine with different fruits like grapes, bananas, apples, strawberries and a little sugar and bam, you’ve got Clerico. Yummy!
11. Join Gisele at Posada del Faro
Punta del Este has a peculiar problem, hotels. Punta is all about location. There’s many areas to Punta del este: Punta city center (peninsula), La Barra and Jose Ignacio. You want to be in La Barra and Jose Ignacio. Here’s little map that I made:
The “hippest” hotel is the Serena Hotel, however it’s in the single worst location. It’s on the opposite side of where you want to be. It’ll take you at least 20-30 minutes to get to La Barra and about 50-60 minutes to get to Jose Ignacio. La Bluette in La Barra is a great little B&B, but it’s not a chic place. It’s like going into (the owner) Hugo’s home.
Don’t get stuck at those “fancy” casino hotels. They’re huge and not worth it.
The Posada del Faro is a sexy boutique hotel in a great location. The celebs like Gisele and Naomi stay here. The only downside is that you’re driving about 20-30 minutes to get to La Barra for the nightlife.
Want to see what Punta del Este is all about? Here’s a video.
There it is. It’s over.
I love comments….
See ya soon,
Kimberly
Rumor: The Setai is rumored to be opening a Punta del Este location near Jose Ignacio. We saw some Setai signs but no sign of construction just yet!
My first guest blog on “The Travel Ringer”: Amex Platinum Travel Services
I’ve got some very exciting news! I did my first guest blog on The Travel Ringer. It’s all about the American Express Platinum Travel benefits and how they’ll save you $$ when traveling!
Check it out here .
(sorry web thieves, I covered my number, he he he)
Please let me know what you guys think about my first guest blog! I’m still trying to kick Anthony Bourdain’s booty in All Top . (by the way, I have moved up in the ranks, keep subscribing and keep commenting….tell you friends, neighbors, family and even your dog about my blog!)
And for all you Black Card stalkers, stay tuned for my Centurion Card blog…..
Hasta mañana
Kimberly
The Differences of Men & Women
So here’s a quick Monday post that I feel I MUST write from an undisclosed Starbuck’s location. This isn’t “jet set” just normal life, but I found it interesting. As I quietly sip my Iced Passion Tea I hear the conversations that surround me.
Do want to understand the difference between men and women? My husband and I have uncovered a secret of Men & Women that puts Men Are From Mars & Women Are From Venus to shame.
The Conversations That We Have:
Men: If you listen to men talk to each other or in a group the conversation goes like this….”Money, goals, money, goals, money goals, cars that I’ll get with the money, more goals”.
Women: If you listen to women talk to each other or in a group the conversation goes like this….”She…She….She…She…She…He…She…She….She…”
Yes men are focused on money, goals, cars and women are focused of the she du jour!
Don’t believe me, well, you’re getting homework. You’re going to open your ears and just listen!
Homework: Go to Starbuck’s or similar location and just listen, and you’ll see what I mean
Bonus Round: Want one more? Okay here it is.
The First Question We Ask:
Men: If a woman comes home and mentions to her husband/boyfriend, that she met someone new, like a new neighbor or a friend’s new boyfriend/husband, the first question her husband will ask her is…”What does he do?” Every single time. Men typically measure themselves by occupation.
Women: If a man comes home and mentions to his wife/girlfriend, that he met someone new, again a neighbor or friend’s girlfriend, the first question the wife/girlfriend will ask is either…”How old is he/she?” or possible (especially if it’s another woman)…”What do they look like or Is she pretty?” Women, whether you think you do or not, measure themselves by appearance. (Please don’t take this as a woman’s worth is only physical, that’s not what I’m saying…no need to get all crazy on me for this one)
Don’t believe me? Test it yourself.
HOMEWORK IS DUE BY FRIDAY. Go to Starbuck’s, dinner, a pool, just any social situation where you can eavesdrop and comment back and let me know what you heard!
A Tip for Women: Men need to empty. Men have caves for a reason. Please, just allow you man to go into his cave when he needs to and allow him to empty. If you do and leave him alone, he’s emerge by himself a stronger, happier man.
A Tip for Men: Women need to fill up. Women require attention, and it’s usually at the time you don’t want to give it. But if you do and honor her needs, she’ll leave you alone to veg in your cave.
Don’t believe me?
Here’s an example: Think about sex. After sex the man wants to sleep (ie. go into nothingness, empty). But women, we want to snuggle and talk (ie. connect, fill up).
Happy Monday! Go out there, fill up, empty…whatever, just take over the world today!
Kimberly
The Top Eleven Hotel Pools East of Asia
The Mondrian Scottsdale. Pool is great, but it’s not ready for the Top 11 just yet. Maybe next year….
I love to get away, sip champagne, eat frozen grapes, listen to vibey music and just relax by a beautifully design pool. When I’m looking to get away and soak in the sun, I want a great pool with a sexy vibe or a great scene. Sometimes I want it quiet with a spectacular view. And other times, I want to watch the Glitterati prance as if they were the top model in the Diane Von Furstenberg spring line fashion show.
Here are my Top Eleven Hotel Pool picks (east of Asia, basically because I haven’t been there yet!)
(Yes, Eleven, not Ten & no, they are not in any particular order!)
1. The Fasano Hotel, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Let me just say that I haven’t yet been here, but on December 25, 2008 I’ll gladly dip myself into this spectacular pool. With the Fasano in Rio being one of the world’s new top hotels, it’s no surprise that the pool here is hotter than ever. From the rumor mill, this is the type of pool where you will say “Can her bathing suit actually get wet or is it just for show?” And the answer is, it’s always for show baby, always for show!
2. The Delano Hotel, South Beach, Miami, USA
Ian Schrager’s first “urban resort” goes in and out of popularity. But I am no fair-weather fan! To me, there is no better place to enjoy the incredibly hot Florida sunshine, usually next to celebs like Jamie Fox, Lindsey Lohan or even Spike Lee. My favorite sighting at this lovely pool was the man himself, Mr. Schrager. I like to imagine that he was working diligently on a new concept hotel, but he was probably doing the NY Times Crossword puzzle! I love the frozen grapes, perfect Mojitos and the foot rubs in the afternoon. If pools could talk this one would make millions in a tell all book!
3. Benkiraï Saint-Tropez, France
Another one that I haven’t personally seen, but is on my Summer 2009 travel schedule! I’ve stayed at the Byblos and yes, there is always a scene, but I’m hoping this new ray of French Riviera sunshine will shine on this super-hyped up Saint-Tropez hot spot! I need something fresh and new in this French jet set destination!
4. Capofaro Resort, Salina, Aeolian Islands, Italy
This up and comer is planning to knock the Hotel Raya off it’s perch in the Aeolians! This stunning hotel pool offers bronzed bodies and cocktails by day and spectacular views of the island of Stromboli at night. If you want to be ahead of the curve, book your next Aeolian get away here.
5. Gansevoort South, South Beach, Miami, USA
With the new location of the David Barton Gym in the Gansevoort South, you can be sure South Beaches hardest bodies will be strutting their stuff around the new South beach hot-spot!
6. Hotel Caruso, Ravello, Italy
This one may be near and dear to my heart (I had my wedding rehearsal dinner overlooking this pool) but I’m definitely not being biased! This infinity pool has one of the most insane views I’ve ever seen! Pictures are all you need, but they still can’t ever do it justice!
7. Villa des Orangers, Marrakech, Morocco
The chaotic streets of Marrakech can really get to you, so when they do, slip inside the Villa des Orangier and head to the pool in the back. I don’t know how, but somehow the noise and smells of the city aren’t allowed to follow you! This pool is beautiful, serene and at night magical. Sip some mint tea and relax.
8. Faena Hotel & Universe, Buenos Aires, Argentina
At the Faena, they call everything an experience. The pool is no exception. Seeing as Buenos Aires is arguably the leading city for plastic surgery in the world, which I am obviously not against, the bodies around this pool will be phenomenal. Dressing for a day at the pool in South America is an event. BTW, don’t be surprised if you see Mick Jagger strutting down the hallway.
9. Capri Palace, The Island of Capri, Italy
The home of my honeymoon and one of the sexiest pools in the Mediterranean. Italian chic, Rosé filled glasses and seemingly a magazine is always doing a photo shoot somewhere around this pool. At night you’ll see one of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen (see my picture above). Beware: no funny business under the water, unless of course you don’t mind an audience. There is a sneak window at the entrance of the hotel that shows the pool from below, kinda like you’re the dolphin in the aquarium.
10. The Belvedere Hotel, Mykonos, Greece
In exactly thirty days I will descend onto Mykonos’s famed Belvedere Hotel. I’ve been stalking this pool for a very long time. This is the home of white on white decor overlooking a deep gorgeous blue sea. All I can say is I hope I’ve done enough of the P90X to be able to compare to the hard bodied guests lounging around this pool! Yikes!
11. One & Only Pamilla, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico
Travel & Leisure says this is the #1 hotel for celebrity spotting. They may be right, I did see Will Smith here last year. But I don’t care about that. Do you want to know what I care about? It’s The Sunglass Concierge that comes around the pool with a sunglass cleaning kit disguised as a picnic basket and offers to clean your shades. I’ve never in my life had cleaner sunglasses or that level of service anywhere
Well, that’s it. The pools that I love and that I hope to love very soon!
Have you noticed my fancy “Kick Ass Confirmation” seal of All Top approval? Be sure to check out All Top for other amazing travel blogs (none as amazing as mine of course).
I need your help! Please subscribe and comment. My goal is to beat Anthony Bourdain’s booty in All Top!
Love ya guys!
Kimberly
The Jet Setters Closet. Where to find hip clothes for worldwide travel.
I’m going to be doing a few blogs this weekend so I’m keeping this one short. Shopping for the summer is my favorite! I’ve got some great stores that always have something perfect for that dip in the pool, lazy lounge day or dancing till dawn on the beaches of the Mediterranean.
Here’s my favs and why for the ladies:
(if you want to see the men’s list, be sure to check my husband, Rob’s new blog)
Blue Genes: They are the #1 boutique for Men, Women and Children’s fashion in Atlanta. But now with their website you can order online. If the prices are too high, check out their new outlet. Great denim selection. These three sisters got it right!
Lisa Kline Women: This LA boutique may cater to the stars in Hollywood, but that’s not why I love this place. They always have the softest tee’s and the coolest little dresses. You can shop online or call and chat with an associate on the phone. They ship fast and you’ll love everything!
Planet Blue: This Malibu Colony shop by far is my FAVORITE. I LOVE this place. They have the best variety and a very laid back atmosphere.
Express: Yep, good old Express. Every season they have something I can’t live without. This year is their Solid Featherweight tees. at $16.50, I have one in every color of the rainbow. I’m a sucker for soft cotton!
Intuition: This tiny little store has so much to offer. They definitely have some of the coolest accessories.
Bella Beachwear: Authentic Brazillian style bikinis. None of the American Brazilian stuff! If you got the booty, they got the suit for you!
Ella Brazil: High-end Brazilian swim wear. Sexy and unique styles that ensure you won’t be wearing the same suit as anyone else!
H&M: Great place to shop for trendy boutique styles and Target prices! Great place to get those pieces you know will probably only make it through one season if you’re lucky!
OSA: If you can’t wait to buy your summer shades in Europe, then you need to buy them here. They have the best selection of sunglasses anywhere!
If I missed your favorite store please send me a comment with a link!
All you men, I know this one was for the ladies, but you can use it to surprise the lady in your life with something spectacular. Remember, if you want to see the men’s list, be sure to check my husband, Rob’s new blog.
Don’t forget to Subscribe & Comment:)
Have a great day…I’m heading for an interview on a private jet…blog to follow!
Much Travel Love!
Kimberly
80°F Sunny & No Humidity
Next Trip: 
