Let’s Go

Renaissance Gateway Staycation Part II – Let’s Go

February 20, 2020 by robincharmagne 4 Comments

Hello pretties,

Today, I’m sharing Part II of my staycation at Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel. Of course, a well appointed, comfy room is a must but I am drawn to hotels with beautiful decor. Take a peek at some of the artwork and furniture pieces…

The lobby bar is well stocked with comfy seating

This room off the bar is like a big living room/game room/craft room-so inviting

This hotel felt like a big home with all kinds of living spaces for dining, relaxing and of course nice rooms for sleeping. The location is perfect for travelers being 5 minutes from the airport and ten minutes from restaurants and shops. If you’re in The A, choose this beautiful hotel!

Have you stayed at any beautiful hotels? Do tell!!!

Renaissance Gateway Staycation – Let’s Go

February 18, 2020 by robincharmagne 4 Comments

Hi pretties,

Staycations R’ Us, or me rather. A short getaway is good for your overall well being. I am fortunate to have so many amazing hotel choices right here in my hometown and I chose the Renaissance Gateway for a long celebration weekend.

Let’s face it, a hotel room can make or break your stay. Here are some things to consider in a hotel room:

Location – high up, away from the ice machine and elevator
Size – big enough to move freely
Staples – coffee station, free water
Bed – nix the decorative pillows
Bathroom – big, with a a door, and easy to use shower head
Extras – good toiletries, reading nook

The Room

Let’s talk about this door! How unique is this design?!

I love the room, so fun and modern. The gallery wall over the bed is a mix of contemporary art in a classic black and white color combo! The wall art is quite interesting and definitely sparks conversation. I love that the bed doesn’t have a million pillows – nap ready!

The bathroom is cool, but not cold in white, black and gray tones. The dark flowers are a nice touch. It’s well appointed and a good size.

But then a glance to the right and bam, an incredible art wall – in the bathroom. Was not expecting it and loved it!

The decor is simple but unique. The settee at the end of the bed is perfect for getting dressed or relaxing in front of the television. A reading nook is always a nice feature of a room, this one is no exception in a beautiful apple green. But, my favorite piece is the trunk bench, in a rich brown with belt detail and accented with a cute pillow.

The obligatory full length mirror is a must. The rustic frame is compliments the room’s decor.

This room was right up my alley. My preference is a modern room without too much stuff and lots of unique details. I was so pleasantly surprised but really this hotel is smartly done with accents that really standout.

Next post I will share this unique space and my thoughts overall on my staycation.

Does the hotel room matter to you or is it just a place to sleep?

A Bag And A Bonus – Let’s Go

November 14, 2019 by robincharmagne 6 Comments

Hi pretties,

Ahhh Paris, still on cloud nine from my Girl’s Trip last month and I can’t wait to share more deets about this trip. But first, let’s talk about the shopping. Paris is known for its fabulous fashion and accessories. You will find EVERY major fashion house in Paris from really affordable stores like H&M to top of the line stores such as Hermes. There is something to buy at literally every price point. However, my particular jam is handbags. I had a thought wayyy in the back of my mind to buy a bag. I wasn’t sure what style or brand but I kinda, sorta thought I would snag something cute.

Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann

Galeries Lafayette was our first stop, the big one with the fabulous rooftop views of Paris.

Honestly, there were so many bags that I was a bit overwhelmed. If you are in Paris and love shopping, you must visit this location. The dining, shopping and views can’t be beat.

The Avenue des Champs-Élysées

I do not have to tell you about this famed street that is a shopper’s dream. There are super high end stores like Cartier and then there’s The Gap. The avenue again has something for every budget. Tons of places to eat – we chose Five Guys because the girls were starving and we wanted something super quick but delicious! But I was still on the hunt for a cute bag. While strolling the avenue, we stumbled upon Lancel. I had never heard of this French brand but the bags were calling me…Come in Robin, see what we have! I am glad I did!

Lancel

Lancel is a French brand that started in 1876 and is a premier French luxury brand. Each bag is handmade from luxurious leathers. There were so many beautiful styles but I am a sucker for a good crossbody. I chose the Clic de Lancel in black. Let’s look at this chic but edgy bag.

beautiful hardware/spacious interior/outside pocket/bag charm

silver hardware/bill compartment/card slots/compact

“With Clic, vintage understatement meets the rebellious elegance of today’s women.” -Lancel

VAT (Value Added Tax)

So here’s another good reason to buy luxury goods abroad. The Value Added Tax, or VAT, is a consumption tax assessed on the value added to goods and services – like a refund. So if you buy certain goods in Europe, you get a refund on your purchase based on the price, usually about 12%. Isn’t that THE best. Lancel did all the paperwork right in the store. When you leave, you present the form at the airport. You can choose a cash refund or have it applied to a credit card…easy peasy.

Currently obsessed with this chic crossbody. I think it falls right in the middle of being a casual weekend bag but equally good as a dressy bag. Loads of interior space to hold everything for the on the go girl! And, a matching wallet to pull off a polished look. I love that it is a French brand that is not so well known. After a 140 years, I think Lancel sure knows how to make a bag.

Have you purchased luxury goods abroad?

9 Travel Gifts Under $25

October 31, 2019 by robincharmagne 6 Comments

Hi pretties,

I am fresh off of a vacation with friends and hyped to share all the deets. So, last Thanksgiving we had a meeting in the ladies room (some of y’all are not going to catch that) and decided to take one BIG trip to celebrate our 55th b-day! Fast forward to October and me the my besties plus 1 are ready for our Girl’s Trip to Paris. And, it was magical! Yeah I know everyone says Paris is magical. But I knew it would be something special when the gifts starting coming. Everyone on the trip brought something cool and useful for the Fabulous, Fierce and Favored crew! Today I am sharing some of my favorite travel accessories, all under $25! Take a peek…

These products are perfect for a weekend getaway to your favorite city or a long-haul trip. Here are my faves – loving the ear buds, at a very reasonable price I might add. Especially considering on the last leg of my flight, I was horrified to hear the flight attendant hawking those cheap azz ear buds, not cool. And next up, phone gear. The phone stand makes it easier to watch movies you’ve downloaded to your phone. Moving on to my last favorite, if you rock a black suitcase, a fun luggage tag will help it stand out in a sea of black bags. On this trip, when I arrived at baggage claim, my bag was already off the conveyor. A fellow traveler said someone thought it was their bag until they saw my luggage tags.

I am so excited to share pics and stories from our Girl’s Trip! Tell me do you buy gifts for friends when traveling together?

ASW Whiskey Exchange – Let’s Go

July 8, 2019 by robincharmagne 8 Comments

Hello pretties,

I feel like I am cheating on my bae, the Mojito. But when a sister/friend suggested a bourbon tasting, I was down for an adventure. Enter ASW Whiskey Exchange, nestled in historic West End featuring a Tasting Room on the premises.

Did You Know?

There are specific laws around making bourbon?

Must be made in the United States.
Must contain 51% corn.
Must be aged in new oak-charred barrels.
Must be distilled to no more than 160 proof and entered into the barrel at 125 proof.
Must be bottled at no less than 80 proof.
Must not contain any added flavoring, coloring or other additives.

*Source: Federal Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits (27 CFR 5).

The Tasting

On a hot, sunny, afternoon, our adventure began. For $20 we received 5 tokens to try a taste or a slushy or both…LOL

Being a newbie, I started with two bourbons, both dark! I was told that purists forgo the ice, so I tried it both ways. Well both were too strong for me and honestly tasted like medicine.

But let’s talk about this cocktail. It was yummy, not too sweet and not so strong like the two bourbons. And this concoction was made with silver whiskey that looks and somewhat tastes like vodka and something else, but dang I can’t remember what was added. It was on point though! But It was quite good.

aswdistillery_slushy_robincharmagne — So between the dark bourbon, the light bourbon and the slushy, I’m choosing…the cocktail!

No idea what this contraption does, but I thought it looked unique!

I love the barrel room and guess what? You can rent the space for events. Definitely adding this spot to my list of event spaces.

Overall, the Exchange was so interesting and the staff was hella cool, knowledgeable, and patient with the newbie. There are tables set up to taste and chill. And for you pet lovers, ASW is pet friendly. I still don’t like bourbon straight. I have to add something to it and I do prefer it more like cocktail. If you are entertaining at home and serve bourbon, you need a whiskey glass and whiskey cubes.

The Verdict

While I’m not a huge drinker, I thought just like with food, expanding your palette is not a bad thing. If you in the Atlanta area and looking for an adult field trip, try bourbon tasting. I recommend ASW Exchange without reservation!

Do you drink bourbon?

Hotel Indigo Atlanta Airport – Staycation – Let’s Go

June 10, 2019 by robincharmagne 10 Comments

Hi pretties,

Staycations are super easy for quick rest and relaxation getaways without spending too much money. Over a fun filled Memorial Day holiday weekend, I did another staycation. These weekend hideouts are becoming routine for me and I fully endorse taking time for yourself. For this stay I chose a location outside of the city but with a familiar brand – Hotel Indigo.

The Backstory

Hotel Indigo is part of the IHG family of brands. I would categorize these as boutique hotels with unique decor that is vibrant, colorful, and inviting.

I staycationed with this brand before at Hotel Indigo Atlanta Vinings. My stay at this pretty as a picture hotel was satisfying with excellent service and unique decor that celebrates the neighborhood history. My experience at Hotel Indigo Atlanta Airport was equally good…take a peek.

First Impression

Both of these locations are fine hotels, but the room at the Airport location was fairly plain. Except for the vintage looking photo graphic on the wall, the room was not a standout. But frankly, I was looking for a comfy bed and a good restaurant, the Airport location scored big on both fronts.

The Winning Touch

The icing at the Airport is the decor, which I would describe as modern chic. A fancy room is of course a bonus, but am a big fan of commercial interior design and this hotel is definitely a winner.

Comfy and inviting in a soft color palette

The Deets

Location – close to Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and Downtown Atlanta
Vibe – not too loud and bouncy
Price – moderate less than $200 a night
Room size – generous and easy to navigate
Amenities – basic – restaurant, business center, gym, and pool
Internet – free
Miscellaneous – allows pets $75 fee

The Verdict

Both hotels met my needs for a staycation. My main complaint if you will with Hotel Indigo Atlanta Airport is the air conditioner was hella loud, really loud, woke me up in the middle of the night loud. That was annoying and impacted my sleep. My other concern was housekeeping. I left my room at 6:30am for an appointment on Saturday and when I returned after 12 noon, my room had not been serviced. On a positive note, the hotel staff was pleasant and helpful. And, the restaurant food and drinks were delicious, be on the look out for an upcoming restaurant review.

I would probably stay at Hotel Indigo Atlanta Airport again, it’s a pretty hotel with really comfortable beds and good service. Hotel Indigo is a hotel brand I recommend without reservation.

Are you planning a staycation this summer?

Candytopia – Let’s Go

January 31, 2019 by robincharmagne 6 Comments

Hello pretties,

Candytopia is coming to Atlanta and I am excited about being invited to the media sneak peek next week. I am not sure what to expect but I have heard Candytopia is colorful, interactive and Instagrammable! Oh and made of candy, yes you read that right candy. I will have a full review after the sneak peek, but until then, here is more on the installations and how to get tickets…

…

Canopy Atlanta – Let’s Go

January 17, 2019 by robincharmagne 5 Comments

Hi pretties,

I was super excited to attend my first hotel opening for Canopy Atlanta. Located in Midtown Atlanta, this hotel is part of the Hilton family of brands. I am always looking for staycation spots in The A and this one is definitely being added to the list.

Canopy is a lifestyle hotel situated in the heart of Midtown, with close proximity to many popular attractions such as the High Museum of Art and the Art District. It has 176 rooms and 4 canopy suites that include complementary Wi-Fi.

Xhibit

For the event, we were able to try bites from the Xhibit Kitchen and Bar. Everything was not only visually appealing, but so delicious! The restaurant has a Cafe, Bar, and complimentary tastings each evening!

Rooms

After sampling some the goodies from Xhibit, we were treated to a tour of the hotel including the guest rooms. The decor is contemporary in style with a mostly neutral color palette. I really liked the open closet space as soon as you walk in, just hang your stuff and go! And there is filtered water on every floor.

Art

Art plays a big part in the decor of the hotel. Many of the installations were designed by local artists. I especially liked the wall that acknowledged patrons of the arts that supported the hotel, check it out you may see a familiar face!

Canopy also boasts meeting spaces, an outdoor terrace with fire pit, and bicycle rental.

If I had to describe Canopy in three word, it would be artsy, cool, and fun. The decor really adds to the ambiance, it doesn’t feel stuffy at all. With their brand promise to deliver a “positive stay”, this hotel is a welcome addition to Midtown Atlanta. I see a staycation in my future.

When you vacation, do you notice the art work at the hotel?

robincharmagne

News in Travel – Let’s Go

February 22, 2018 by robincharmagne 6 Comments

Hello,
The temps are getting warmer and Spring Break is right around the corner. You know what that means, it is time for travel. But before you pull out the suitcase and the sunscreen, you need to know about some changes that could effect your travel plans. Take a peek at these tips for domestic and international travel……

Architecture – Amsterdam Week – Part 2

May 18, 2017 by robincharmagne 6 Comments

architecture-amsterdam-robincharmagne
Hello pretties,
Another segment of Amsterdam week featuring beautiful architecture. From my first day in Amsterdam, I started snapping photos of buildings. You will find a fantastic mix of old and new buildings all across the city with unique details. These are a few of the beauties I captured…take a peek…
hotel-amsterdam-robincharmagne
central-station-amsterdam-robincharmagne
women-amsterdam-robincharmagne
wall-amsterdam-robincharmagne

flower-amstedam-robincharmagne
pathe-amsterdam-robincharmagne
homes-amsterdam-robincharmagne

Call me the nerdy diva because it is so interesting to see the architecture of other cities and hear about the history of the buildings and how they shaped the city’s landscape. An interesting tidbit is a lot of the buildings and homes on the canals don’t have elevators so a hoist is used to move furniture and things into the buildings. Can you imagine seeing fridge or a couch being hoisted up to the top of a building? Pretty clever!

What types of photos do you like to capture while vacationing?

Linking with these lovely bloggers.

Images: personal