Exploring Rio de Janeiro by Helicopter

Christ the Redeemer from Helicopter

The most magical way to explore the Marvelous City is by helicopter. The best company in Rio to fly with is Helisight. There are nine different flights ranging from R$150 (USD $60) to R$875 (USD $365) per person. The accept cash and credit cards (including American Express). There are also two heliports, Sugar Loaf and Lagoa. We DO NOT recommend using the Sugar Loaf heliport unless you plan to make a day of visiting Sugar Loaf Mountain and don’t mind a little chaos. We DO recommend using the Lagoa heliport. There are no lines, no traffic and the area around you is calm and absolutely beautiful! If fact, you can see Christ the Redeemer from the heliport in Lagoa.

Rob and I took a tour that brought us from the Lagoa heliport, down Ipanema, around the corner to the infamous Copacabana beach with the grand finale being the twice around circling of the most famous “new” wonder of the world Christ the Redeemer. It was one of my favorite experiences in Rio. Here’s a little video of our helicopter flight.

Ipanema by Air from Jet Set Life on Vimeo.

Christ the Redeemer from the air. from Jet Set Life on Vimeo.

Here are a few tips for your helicopter trip:

#1: All flights are for a minimum of 3 people. If you can’t find anyone to go with you then you can wait 30 minutes for them to sell the remaining seats. If they can not sell the remaining seats then you can fly without paying for those seats yourself. If you want a private helicopter and are unwilling to wait the 30 minutes, then you must pay for the third seat.

#2: Bring your camera and video camera. You’re able to take as many pictures as you want.

#3: Make sure it’s a clear day. In Rio often there are low hanging clouds. You want to get the most out of your helicopter ride and visibility is key, especially when circling Christ the Redeemer.

#4: Which ever package you choose, make sure it includes Christ the Redeemer. You’ll fly so close you’ll think you can touch the statue!

If you DO plan to use the Sugar Loaf Heliport then know the following:

#1: Arrive very early and get in line to take the cable car to the first rock station. This is where the heliport is located.

#2: The tickets for the cable car are NOT included in your helicopter price. They are about R$20 per person.

#3: There is often a lot of traffic getting to and from Sugar Loaf. During high tourist periods, plan a little extra time.

That’s just a little taste of what is up and coming for the Jet Set Life: Rio de Janeiro video. Stay tuned!

~ Kimberly

The Best: Buenos Aires

Hot off the plane from Buenos Aires I thought I’d give you my favorites. The List: Buenos Aires will be available by the holidays, but here are the places that are going to top that list, hands down.

The Best Boutique Hotel: The Home Hotel

This boutique hotel found in Palermo Hollywood is perfectly named. Owners Tom & Patricia’s genuine kindness and hospitality has trickled down through their staff. The hotels rooms are perfectly styled and casually chic. The bathrooms are large and they even will lend you a curling or flat iron! The drinks at the bar are amazing, think green apple with a dash of basil, during happy hour you’ll find the hottest heads in town, possibly some celebs like Bono grooving to the tunes of the in house DJ. When partying has taken it’s toll, head to the intimate spa for some relaxation and rejuvenation. And don’t be surprised if you receive the best massage of your life as owner, Patricia sets the spa bar high by looking to Asia for inspiration.

The Best Unique Store: Ateneo Book Store

This grand theater turned bookstore is something to see. You’ll be amazed by the books, DVD’s and other odds and ends lining every inch of this magnificent building. The stage has even transformed into a coffee and pastry shop. This place will have you saying “Starbucks who?”.

The Best Tango Show: Faena “Rojo Tango Show”

Tango is the national dance of Buenos Aires and no one showcases it better than the Faena Hotel & Universe. With the high priced ticket, you’ll receive transfers to and from the Faena Hotel (mainly b/c it’s in East Bumf%*k), a delicious dinner and bottomless champagne and wine. Once your belly and your glass is full, the house tango dancers, singers and band take you on a journey through the most passionate and dramatic of all dances, the tango.

The Best Local Sporting Event: Football in La Boca Stadium

Football (soccer to those in the US) is the national pastime of Portenos. Ask which team they prefer and they all will answer differently, yet somehow with the same reasons for hating the opposing team. Getting into the La Boca stadium during a home game is an experience in itself. These fans are crazy, but not crazy about tourists. So, if English is your only language, keep your trap shut until you’re inside the stadium walls. Then buy a t-shirt for 30 pesos ( about $10US) and enjoy the chanting, hollering and of course those South American cheerleaders!

Interesting Fact: Coca Cola sponsors the La Boca stadium. Since La Boca’s rival team’s colors are red & white, Coke had to change their colors to black & white for the stadium!

The Best Lunch Spot: Bar 6

The hippest lunch spot in town is Bar 6. If you’re lucky you’ll get to dine at one of casual couch tables with mismatched chairs. The food is simple yet delicious. With options like brown rice and stir fried vegetables even the visiting vegetarians will go home happy!

The Best Place to Indulge Your Sweet Tooth: Florencio

Located in Recoleta, this tiny hole in the wall pastry shop is to die for! With only four tables, two of which are outside, this pastry shops delivers up the best sweets in the city. With apple pie, dolce de leche chocolate cake and Illy coffee, you’ll probably find yourself here more than once.

The Best Hidden Dinner: Casa Felix

When you need a break from the Argentine beef, head to Casa Felix. Diego Felix stumbled upon something spectacular with his “Chef House” concept. Three nights per week chef Diego Felix opens his home to a dozen diners at 9:30pm. He gives a tour of his home, his kitchen and his girlfriend-the herb garden. Chef Felix’s menu changes weekly and is dependent on what’s in season and fresh. He pairs each meal with the perfect wine. The cost is so reasonable you’ll find yourself telling him to raises his prices!

The Best Dinner w/ a Scene: Casa Cruz

If you’re looking for the who’s who of BsAs, look no further than the tables of Casa Cruz. As you pass through the velvet curtains into the dark, give your name and take a seat on the plush leather couches that surround the oval shaped bar until your table is called. Enjoy a martini, glass of bubbly or browse the extensive wine menu. The food is delicious however, the staff is apparently aware of the restaurants social status and the servers can feel a bit snobbish.

The Best Local Bar: Ocho-7-Ocho

This spot is so in the know that some locals may not even be able to point you in the direction of this hot spot. 878 is a truly hidden bar. When you arrive, you’ll think you have the wrong address. Just ring the doorbell and wait for the tall wooden doors to part. If you look up to par, you’ll be invited into the underground scene of BsAs. The bar itself is simple in decor, but boasts the largest variety of libations in the city.

The Best Dance Till 6am Club: Crobar

The South American sister club to the NYC & Miami hot spots is the top party headquarters in BsAs. Our suggestion is to avoid the velvet ropes and book a VIP table. It’ll cost you about 450 USD including about 300 USD in alcohol. This gets you in quickly and above the crazy mess with a booth overlooking the dance floor. Just be warned that the no one arrives until 3am and they stay till the sun comes up at 6:30am!

The Best Place to Pay for a Chick: Blacks

South American countries look at prostitution in a different way than Americans. Blacks is a high-end “strip club” that is really a place to find a Latin-hottie for the night. Ironically, Black’s is found on the Ave. Alvear (BsAs version of Rodeo Drive) Black’s can be found above Cartier and across from the Alvear Palace Hotel. The sign for Black’s is only illuminated late a night for those…umm….looking for companionship.

Top Eleven Gifts for the Jet Setter: 2008

Move over Oprah! Here’s a list of some of my favorite things that any jet setter would be sure to love!

1. The Amazon Kindle $359

Imagine being able to travel with 200,000 books, blogs, newspapers and magazines in one small electronic device that’s the size of one thin book! Download a book in less time than it takes a plane to take off!

2. Tumi 22″ Ducati Carry On $495

With airlines charging for checking luggage it’s time to become a master-packer. The sleek and stylish Tumi Ducati is the perfect size and shape for any airline’s overhead compartment.

3. Apple Airport Express $99

This super charged wireless Airport Express can allow you to share iTunes music wirelesly with speakers in your home, control your iTunes by your iPhone or iPod and even print wirelesly from your computer!

4. Tara Matthews Bikini from Clickini.com €280

My new favorite bikini designer has joined forces with the UK based bikini selling powerhouse Clickini. Her designs are flawless, sexy, unique and a perfect fit, not to mention, they’re made in Brazil!

5. P90X $150

Don’t let Santa leave you with extra pounds this holiday season! Begin your New Years Resoluation now with P90X’s insane, exciting and fat blasting workout. This is the most well rounded exercise program I’ve ever seen. If you’re a beginner, there is also a P90 (minus the X).

6. Moleskin Notebook $9.95-$16.95

Sleek and well designed. Big, medium or small. Lines, graph or blank. Red, white, tan or blue. It’s all up to you. This is the in the know notebook.

7. Korres Summer Essentials $28.50

This Greek skincare line uses natural plants and herbs to make each product perfect. They shield and protect your skin from the sun from the shower to the beach. Not to mention they smell amazing!

8. 9 Piece Caipirinha Set $26.99

Move over Mojito…Hello Caipirinha! The sexier sister of the Mojito is about to take the States by storm. Make this cool cocktail with Cachaça, sugar and fruits like lime, peaches or strawberries. Deliciously Brazilian!

9. Sony Cyber-Shot Camera $249

Taking beautiful photos is simple with the Sony Cyber-Shot. This tiny wonder of a camera has so many easy to use functions that you almost can’t screw it up! Plus can fit in your pocket or your tiniest purse.

10. Skype Account $2.95-$9.95 per month

Jet Setters make friends all around the world. Now keep in touch without using the money you’ve saved for your next luxury get away. Skye is easy to use and has incredibly inexpensive rates. They have plans for every level of jet-setter!

11. Fly Clear $199 annually

Get out of the general security airport lines and just Fly Clear! Frequent travelers can get through security with less hassles and with a security concierge assisting in the process in a dedicated Fly Clear lane.

Happy Shopping!

XoXo

Kimberly

Jet Set Charm School: A Chick Prospective- An interview with Jordan Harbinger of Art of Charm School.

So, how do you know that you’ve made it? Well, when Saturday Night Live’s Seth Meyers (who ironically had my Mom for a French teacher in high school) parodies your company in Weekend Update, I’d say that you’re now on the radar!

The following is an Interview with Jordan Harbinger from the Art of Charm School. This guy is the real deal and the Master of Social Dynamics. You can catch him on the Today Show or Sirius Satellite Radio, at PickUp Podcast or at The Art of Charm. This interview is from the chick’s perspective, but guys, you may find some insight here too. If not, check out my husband’s blog for the guys perspective with Jordan.

1. The Art of Charm teaches women to be selective. Explain why you think that is important for women.
As evidenced in part by our astronomical divorce rate, people are having issues maintaining a relationship.  One of the principal reasons this occurs is that people have either limited experience with relationships in general before they decide to marry, are afraid they won’t find the right person and thus ‘settle’ for what they know they can get at the time, or both.  Women and men are equally guilty of this, and it is important for women to screen for the right man BEFORE they get married, instead of hoping to change someone they’re currently dating into something they aren’t.  Being selective is the only way to ensure that you end up with the right partner for life, not just for you, but for the sake of your whole family.  This is the most important decision any woman can make in her lifetime, so it is absolutely crucial that a woman have the power to select the man she feels is best suited for the job.  This power is what we help you cultivate here at The Art of Charm.

2. People underestimate the power of the feminine energy (the nurturing, soft, loving, caring energy, not just the sexuality). Women often feel that they need take on a more masculine role to “get the job done” or “compete with the guys”. But if you ask my husband, he’ll tell you a feminine woman has a better chance of gaining his attention, business etc.. than a masculine woman. How does The Art of Charm teach a woman to use her natural feminine energy to obtain the life they’ve always wanted?
Many women think “strong” and “masculine” are synonymous. A woman’s strength does not come from mimicking masculine behavior. Women generally have a different set of skills to work with, and learning to identify those skills – things such as being more detail-oriented, able to multi-task more efficiently and being more aware of interpersonal relationships -  are where feminine strength comes from. Women are also more apt to trust their “instincts” then men are, and we teach them why that’s so and we break down what is commonly labeled as “instinct” so they can learn why many times it’s okay to trust it. Women cannot succeed in the long run mimicking men because in the end, men ARE men. Women learning to utilize their own strengths rather than trying to copy the behavior of men will always be more effective.

3. Many believe that people mostly date someone on their own level. Example: A hot lady will date a hot guy. Do you believe that this is a true statement and how can The Art of Charm teach people to be able to date up a level?
Many people spend their lives laboring under the misconception that there are “levels” to interpersonal relationships. We spend a lot of time teaching and demonstrating personal value in our programs. The truth is that levels only exist in people’s minds. When a person feels his or her own value is high, they are able to see the rest of the world the same way. This effectively levels the playing field and a whole new world opens up. “Levels” are like the Matrix. It’s simply a construct of the mind. Our students learn that it doesn’t really exist, and once they have that internalized, that’s when they truly begin to live.

4. People often have no sensory acuity*. Example of having no “sensory acuity” is when a man approaches a woman and he confuses her politeness as her being interested in him and keeps pursuing her. How can people use their senses better when approaching the opposite sex?
The short answer is PRACTICE. People are ALWAYS using their senses, but the mistakes and misunderstandings arise when they attribute the wrong meaning to them. There are so many variables to human interaction that only practice can get a person better at recognizing what their senses are telling them. People who want to get better at reading people MUST get out and do it. There is absolutely no amount of reading that will substitute actual live interaction.

5. I hate being mean to anyone, and I often get approached by men while traveling. How can I let a guy down without completely damaging his self-esteem and avoid him thinking that I am being a bi-atch?
First, women in general need to be more understanding and flattered when men approach them. It takes a lot for a man to get up the courage to risk being rejected! So begin with just some human respect. If a woman feels respect for a man who has approached her, even if she’s not attracted, she will generally find it easier to let him know that she isn’t interested. Working having a boyfriend/husband into the conversation is a pretty low-key, easy way to start. Most often, men will appreciate a simple smile and something along the lines of, “You seem like a great guy and I’m very flattered, but I’m not interested. I’ll keep my eye out for you, though!” The fact of the matter is the he probably really IS a great guy – just not the right one for you. Don’t just be nice and lead him on because you don’t want to hurt his feelings, but there’s no need to act like he’s a parasite, either.

6. Women love masculine men.  Think Sean Connery, Johnny Depp, Clark Gable and Russell Crowe.  Masculine men are confident, not arrogant and strong, not overbearing. We want them to be the “rock” when we have an emotional whirlwind. How does The Art of Charm teach men to be masculine and to be that “rock” in a relationship that a woman wants?
We teach men that women are emotional creatures, and they just need to accept that as fact. Generally, when a woman is in an emotional tizzy, she’s not looking for her man to give her answers or solve her problem. She just needs to get all that worked-up emotion out. We explain that men don’t need to understand the emotions that women pour out. That’s a big relief for just about everyone! All men have to do is just BE the rock. A man needs to go to her after all the emotion is out, wrap her in his arms and let her know it’s going to be all right. Most of the time, that’s all it takes. The key is not trying to understand WHAT women are saying, but HOW they’re saying it.

7. How can The Art of Charm teach women to become leaders in business without compromising their femininity?
We teach women that being leaders in business is not about COMPROMISING their femininity, it’s about UTILISING it. We spend a lot of time on body language and what we call the Map of Interaction. Body language is incredibly important because many women aren’t aware that what their bodies are saying is not what they mean to say. The Map of Interaction shows exactly how people interact with each other in any given situation, from the most personal to the most hard-core business deal. When a woman understands HOW people interact with each other, she can learn to use her uniquely feminine traits to lead with confidence and power.

8. I saw that you recommend The Doors and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off on your website. What lessons can be learned form these films with regard to The Art of the Charm?
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a film about a kid who takes life by the horns and who never allows other people’s negativity into his reality or lifestyle.  The Doors is a great illustration of super-sexual, confident body language.  We show clips of these films during some of our courses to illustrate certain talking points.

9. Explain what happens during your Advanced Attraction Boot Camp? What outcome should be expected?

The Art of Charm offers several programs and services, including our men’s three-day bootcamp which features over 35 hours of training, including at least five hours of classroom training and five hours of live “in-field” training each day. We also have a one-week live-in program, which is our most popular of all, and invites our clients to live with us at AoC Headquarters in Downtown Manhattan.  With this intensely focused program, our clients receive over sixty hours of training and are immersed in the study of our curriculum for an entire week.  This is the program that allows us to really see the transformation of our clients throughout the course of the program.  Our entire curriculum spans over 150 hours of training and is all based on the surrounding principles featured in the topics discussed in the Pickup Podcast.  We’ve deconstruct situations, personalities and social settings, and teach our clients about each one. We then put them back together and show you how to control them. We teach our clients how to be socially influential and lead in every situation in their lives. Some of the topics discussed in our curriculum are our map of interaction, secrets of social value, and how to effectively establish an attractive presence.  The tuition for each three-day program is $1997, and each one-week live-in program is $3497, with payment plans available, and prices scheduled to increase on December 1st, 2008.

The outcome we expect is simple. It is our goal with each of our programs that our clients have a life-changing experience.   We want each of our clients to leave their program feeling inspired that they now have the wisdom to apply the knowledge we have given them.  The knowledge that will enable them to meet, attract, and keep the type of people they want not only romantically, but personally, and professionally as well.
10. What is the #1 thing that men wished that woman knew?
I think we all wish women knew how much we put ourselves out there.  How much us men do actually think and feel about things.  The way that a woman can make us feel so unimaginably amazing and can have such power over us.  That we live our lives ultimately trying to become the best man we can be so we can provide everything for the women that are in our lives; our mothers, sister, lovers, and even friends.  Under the rough edges we men may carry, we are so excited to just brush the cheek of the woman we love, to take care of her gently, and protect her powerfully.  We wish women knew that every man on this planet knows in his heart, the root of his life, wants and desires is to find the right woman so he can give her everything.  As powerful as any man is, we are fragile and sincere in our hearts.

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We just returned from Buenos Aires. We’ve learned the Tango from the best, shopped in BsAs answer to Rodeo Drive and Soho, dined in hidden restaurants and partied till 7am with the BsAs elite! The video, photos and The List: Buenos Aires should be available soon. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to get the insider BsAs information first!