My Summer Travel Essentials

Hi everyone!
I'm sure we can all agree that just about everyone loves the season of summer and traveling. However, I've learned that whether traveling across the globe or to a road trip destination, a few items are considered my essentials. Although I can completely go without them in a base minimum state, they help make traveling a breeze, yet still polished. I'm currently vacationing in France, soon to be in Spain and each of these have come in handy. 

In France I started in Paris, and driving, went to the Loire Valley, then to Sarlat, to Lourdes, and finally to Perpignan where I reside now! Very soon I will be posting a recap of what and where I went to share the amazing experience with you all!

Accessories
Large handbag: Mainly used as my major traveling bag on the airplane and such.
Small crossbody bag: Used just about everyday for outings, making it a must to bring!
Wide brim hat: One of my new favorite accessories! I use it when I'm having a bad hair day and to get some shade in the hot summer sun!

Clothing
Sundress: This can take you far and is so effortless to create an outfit, as well as keeping the heat from getting to ya!
Comfortable shorts: A must have in my book-they can be dressed up or down if you find the right pair too.
Denim jacket: Has become extremely useful in this past trip of mine on the cooler, rainy days. I think I've worn tooo much actually!
Shoes that hold your foot: Never underestimate the amount of walking that will take place and if you do not opt for sneaker, try sandals with lots of straps or with arch support.

Entertainment
Book/Magazine: These are useful for getting away from electronics and relaxing. (Or when you can not charge up!)
Iphone/Ipad: Feels like you are connected back home, making these items a must for me.

Hair and Skin Care
Flat iron: For my wavy, super thick hair that does not agree with the heat, I always bring my Chi flatiron for even the minimalist of jobs.
Sunscreen: Take care of your skin, even if you want a tan!
Hair ties: To keep your hair off your face!
Clips/Bobbypins: I love using these to pin back flyways or to create cute hairstyles.
Pen stain remover: I promise this will come in handy at some point!
Moisturizer: For the airplane to sleeping, I always bring moisturizer.
Lipstick: To brighten up!

xo, Paulina

Rue Cremieux

Hi everyone! 

It's harder than I thought it would be- blogging during vacation, so I apologize for the lack of quantity, but I have left Paris and have journeyed through the wheat fields and roundabouts down to Sarlat, France, where I am currently writing this post! Paris was a dream and will most definitely be back soon! When I return to the States I will be posting something about the incredible Paris fashion that I witnessed, as well as a bit of a recap of what I did during this 18 day trip! On one of the last days in Paris, I visited a street like no other, named Rue Cremieux in the 12th. It sticks out in the monochrome city due to it's brightly colored facades and lined potted plants, which make it scream charm! During this leg of the trip, Paris was extremely rainy and I never really escaped it, but it was okay because everything was still so elegant and lively. The rainy weather made the city chilly, so I wore dark skinnies from American Eagle, my "Couture" tee from Zara, a blush scarf from Forever 21, and a black cotton jacket. As for accessories I brought my trusty Marc Jabobs crossbody and gladiator sandals from DSW. Definitely visit this street to walk along a little world of color and play!

xo, Paulina 

Third Day in Pariii

Hi everyone! 

I'm going to attempt keeping up with the posting while on vacation, but they will mainly be about travel and my ootds! On that note, today I visited the Pompidou Musuem, the Notre Dame, and the Lock Bridge on the Seine. I realized how important it was to wear comfortable walking shoes and how many girls were   wearing boots and sneakers (not even one pair on flipflips and minimal sandals!) I made sure to wear my white converses, which I paired with a dress from Old Navy and a denim jacket from American Eagle. Paris is a dream and I still have so much to cover in terms of sights to see. So far the food has been great, although the language barrier is a bit difficult.

xo, Paulina

Airport Outfit?

Hi there!

After so many years of dreaming of going to Paris, France, this week I finally was and today was my flying day. Starting in New York, I travelled to Massachusetts, and then to Paris, over the course of a day. Arriving in Paris was magical, as I was able to spot the Eiffel Tower from the airplane and everything looked beyond elegant! It was exhausting dealing with jet lag and I'm still getting over it, but people watching and seeing how everyone dresses here has helped. Everyone has their own distinct styles, and trends don't seem to be relevant; instead timeless looks and the classic color, black, rule the streets. For my traveling day, I opted for a comfortable yet stylish look by wearing black Forever 21 joggers, a black tank top cami, a white Old Navy cardigan, and nude flip flops. As for accessories, I used an oversized nude handbag that I got in Chinatown, and left jewelry to a few everyday bracelets. I'm so excited to be in France and to have seen and climbed the Eiffel Tower on the first day! I would love to know of any recommended restaurants or picturesque locations! 

 

xo, Paulina

What I've Learned while Prepping for Europe

Hi everyone! 

I can not believe I will be traveling to Europe in 2 days! I have been dreaming about this trip my whole life; literally asking for it for Christmas since I can remember. What I have never really considered was how much planning was needed for such a long and "first time" trip. From where to sleep, to converting euros, to semi-planning an itinerary, about three days this past week were (more or less) completely dedicated to planning. While I'm all up for spontaneity, I enjoy having a few set things like reservations at a restaurant or tickets to specific museums. Throughout this planning process with my family, I have learned a lot about traveling and what we should try to do, so I thought I would share a few points with all of you, fellow wanderlusters!
             

Try to: 

1. Plan it out - draw out your days

2. Wake up early to catch the shortest lines

3. Find side entrances - like the Louvre!

4. Buy tickets in advance to skip lines - most attractions have this option online

5. Pack lightly- create versatility 

6. Arrive with low to no expectations - you will be pleasantly surprised at anything!

7. Go with the flow - it's all for fun

8. Take every opportunity - you never know when you'll get that experience again

9. Immerse into the culture - be a local for a day!

10. Document it - find the balance of taking pictures but also leaving the technology behind at times

xo, Paulina