TRAVEL DIARY | NIHIWATU, SUMBA ISLAND

An hours flight out of Bali, followed by an adventurous 1.5 hour drive, you will reach an amazingly beautiful slice of paradise, also known as Nihiwatu resort, Sumba Island...

I have a theory when it comes to travel. All the best places to visit are the ones that take that extra effort to get to. Such is true of Sumba Island.

I've enjoyed many visits to Bali (you can see my Bali Travel Guide HERE), but this trip was my first visit truly outside of the hustle and bustle and I absolutely LOVED it.

Sumba Island remains relatively uninfluenced by modernisation, with a beautiful and rich culture. Nihiwatu Resort, where I was fortunate enough to stay on my visit, embraces and promotes the local culture, while providing visitors with a luxurious five-star escape.

Nihiwatu is a calm and peaceful retreat, which feels like it is literally in the middle of no where (in the best possible way). From its beautiful modern interiors, to a vast array of activities on offer (hiking, to surfing to the must-try spa safari), no stone is left un-touched.

If you're looking for a rejuvenating escape from the traditional 'Bali' holiday, I highly recommend a visit to Nihiwatu, Sumba Island.

Trust me, you won't leave disappointed.

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VIETNAM TRAVEL DIARY | PART II

Vietnam really is a magnificent country...

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to live and work in the North of Vietnam, in Hanoi, which was such a unique and eye opening experience.

At the end of last year, I had the opportunity to revisit Vietnam, with Contiki as a part of their Vietnam Highlights package.

SEE PART ONE OF MY VIETNAM TRAVEL DIARY HERE

On the second half of the tour I was able to explore more of the South of Vietnam, from Hoi An, to Hue.

An absolute highlight of the trip was my first visit to the beautiful and historic city of Hoi An. 

Hoi An was so different to other parts of Vietnam I had experienced. It felt untouched and I loved the history weaved through the town's architecture, food and shopping. Hoi An, truly is a melting pot of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese culture.

The best way to get around is definitely by cycle, and a stroll through the markets after dark is a must. You will be treated to the most beautifully overwhelming display of colourful lanterns.

If you get the chance, a visit to Vietnam is a must. A country so vast and diverse, there is definitely something for everyone.

FOLLOW THE ADVENTURE ON INSTAGRAM @FRIENDINFASHION

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TRAVEL ESSENTIALS | FRIEND IN FASHION YOUTUBE

Sabo Skirt dress / by jasmin wanderlust necklace / Brooklyn Hawaii clutch / Monster diamond tears headphones / Lack of Colors Hat / Triangl bikinis

Two more sleeps until I head overseas for a relaxing tropical escape, and to say I'm excited is an understatement.

I've just started up a YouTube channel, so I thought I try my hand at 'vlogging' with a couple of my travel essentials. 

As always, you can follow my adventure while I'm away on
instagram @friendinfashion 

In the meantime, I've pulled together my Bali Travel Guide sharing the places to eat, stay, play and of course SHOP!

Much more to come.

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A LUXE NOMAD IN BALI

wearing Vamastyle swim & resort-wear throughout, Hat of Cain Panoma, by jasmin jewellery

Last week, I had the absolute pleasure of a whirlwind visit to beautiful Bali.

On assignment with Vamastyle and The Luxe Nomad, fellow blogger, a pair & a spare and I were treated to the incomparable Bali hospitality at the beautiful Villa Sungai.

Situated away from the usual tourist jaunts - Villa Sungai is an absolute slice of paradise, tucked away in the traditional village of Cepaka.

The accommodation is luxurious, the food is some of the best I've eaten (anywhere in the world), and best of all, despite being tucked away in a village, there is a driver at your disposal to take you out and about if you're an explorer like me. Seminyak, Nusa Dua and Ubud are all an enjoyable drive away.

 Villa Sungai was a lovely break from the hustle and bustle of town - a true oasis.

My Vamastyle wardrobe of mix and match swimwear and easy-breezy resort wear definitely served as THE perfect holiday wardrobe.

In my next travel blog post - I'll share my Bali must sees and dos.

Special thanks to The Luxe Nomad for highlighting some of Bali's best.

Follow @friendinfashion on instagram for more Bali travel pictures.

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POSTCARDS FROM MIAMI

My first trip to Miami was a couple of years ago and was a place I immediately fell in love with.

Always a must return when I'm in the States,  Miami is the perfect blend America, Latin culture and the beauty of the Caribbean.

For quick visits, I like to stay on South Beach, right in the heart of the action. I think some mistake South Beach for a party crazy part of Miami - it is definitely an experience, full of all sorts of nightlight and interesting characters, but it really is a great base to explore not only the South Beach area - shops, architecture and restaurants, but also greater Miami, and Florida Keys. South Beach for me is electric and eccentric.

On my most recent trip, I chose to stay at The Betsy Hotel, an absolutely stunning boutique hotel right on Ocean Drive. An oasis from what I affectionately refer to as 'Miami madness'. Great rooms, lovely service and access to a private beach right on your front doorstep, which I definitely took full advantage of.

If you get the chance, I'd also highly recommend hiring a car and exploring surrounding Miami, including Key Biscayne, Bal Harbour (all your luxury shopping needs covered), and if you have a little more time, do yourselves a favour and make the 2.5/3 hour drive down to Key West, stopping at the many lovely and often secluded swim spots along the way.

Crystal blue waters, endless supply of palm trees and coconuts - a tropical wonderland.

In summary, when in Miami you MUST spend as much time sea-side as possible, water-sports mandatory, try some diverse and delicious and of course indulge in a little shopping.

Follow my adventure around the world on instagram @friendinfashion, facebook and twitter.

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LOS ANGELES TRAVEL DIARY

Back from LA - I thought I would share a handful of my must sees and dos for a visit to the City of Angels.

MUST DO
Hire a car! LA is such a big city, so to make the most of your time and see the best of the city, I highly recommend hiring a rental car to get around during your stay.

Catch an amazing LA sunset perched high on the Shangri-LA rooftop (Santa Monica)

Drive down the coast, exploring parts of Orange County, Newport Beach & Malibu


MUST SHOP
Rodeo Drive - all your high end shopping covered. Chanel to Celine - also amazing department stores including Barneys & Saks Fifth Avenue

Robertson Boulevard, Beverly Hills

Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica - Santa Monica Place is my favourite one-stop-shop

Fashion Island in Newport Beach


MUST SEE
The Getty Centre (one of my absolute LA favourites)

Hike Beachwood Canyon for a great view of the Hollywood sign

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Santa Monica Pier


MUST EAT
Lunch at Lemonade, AXE or Gjelina on Abbot Kinney (Venice Beach)

Tender Greens (Santa Monica & West Hollywood) - the perfect nutritious break to burgers & fries

Fro-Yo from Pink Berry (my favourite of many options in LA)

In-N-Out Burger - an LA institution


MUST PLAY
Chateau Marmont

The Beverly Hills Hotel

Roosevelt Hotel (don't forget to check out the bowling alley)

Viper Room


MUST STAY
I love to stay close to the beach (especially in Summer) - so I look to Santa Monica or Venice Beach. You have a great range of accommodation options from up scale hotels, to more budget-friendly options. My favourites are the Viceroy Hotel in Santa Monica or renting a gorgeous Californian beach-shack in the heart of Venice.

If the beach isn't for you, I love to stay at the Beverly Hils Hotel. It's luxe, private, perfect service and all things LA


This is just a taste of LA favourites - I'd love to hear yours!


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TIS THE SEASON

Samsonite Cosmolite suitcase | She's Electric dress | Wanted shoes | Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 | Lack of Colors hat

As Samsonite's Style Ambassador, I thought I'd share what's at the top of my gift list this festive season - you guessed it, new luggage. The perfect travel companion.

On my most recent trip, I spent the last six months travelling across every continent with only one Samsonite suitcase, it was sturdy, pleasant on the eye and most importantly light as a feather - an absolute must when you're jumping between planes, trains, taxis and boats.

Perfect for the wanderlust who has it all, or a gift to yourself if you have the good fortune of kicking off the new year with some travel.

Bon voyage! 

Photography / Tina Elias 


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ISLAND LIFE

 

Cameo playsuit, Topshop shades, Zara sandals

There is something to be said about island life and neon. 

This incredible playsuit has come in extremely handy during my time exploring the beautiful islands of Croatia (you can see all my travel pictures and video on instagram @friendinfashion), and I'm sure I'll get even more wear as I venture towards the equally as beautiful Greek islands next.

For now, I'm off to explore more of Dubrovnik before I sadly bid the amazing country of Croatia farewell. 

You can follow my summer adventure around the world on instagram @friendinfashion, twitter and facebook.

Photos / Tim Florea 

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FROM CROATIA WITH LOVE

Fiel Sol earrings, Esther Boutique crochet top, Zara sandals

Croatia has always been on my bucket list and for one reason or another I'd never made it. This time round, I knew I had to make time for this Adriatic jewel, and am I thankful I did! 

Flying from Australia, then on to France and then ferrying across from Italy, Croatia did take a bit of effort to reach, but It is such an amazing place, I'm afraid my words and pictures hardly do this incredible place justice. 

I write you from Hvar Island - an absolutely breath-taking slice of paradise, about 2 hours via Ferry from mainland Split. The original plan was to say five nights on Hvar, but I've absolutely fallen in love with this place, so I've decided to extend my stay. 

Hvar is such a dynamic place, it has arguably some of the most pristine, crystal clear waters, I've ever had the privilege of seeing, and caters to all all that you would want in an island holiday. 

When I travel, I tend to steer clear of major hotel chains, invariably all hotels end up looking the same throughout the world, so I tend to opt for accommodation which allows me to absorb more of a sense of place. 

Hvar has many great options - my choice - a family run apartment right on the top of a beautiful hillside overlooking and only a short stroll from Old Town. 

As always, the other half has picked himself up a scoter to get us around the island, and in my opinion is a fantastic way of uncovering some incredible hidden and secluded swimming spots - just like this one.  

Here are few of my own Hvar recommendations:

EAT

There are so many dining options to cater to all tastes and budgets - an absolute stand out meal of mine has to be at a tiny sea-side restaurant called Gego, about a 15 minute scooter ride from Old Town. Hands down the most amazing seafood - I ordered the Lobster spaghetti - best I've had anywhere in the world!

DRINK

If you're after a few drinks, good music and a great sea-side experience, Hula Hula bar - is a must. 

SWIM

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to amazing swimming spots - there are plenty of beaches along the coast-line. If you have the chance though, I'd recommend hiring a scooter and heading away from the main swimming areas to uncover amazing and mainly secluded swimming spots. Zarace is my favourite! 

I'm here in Hvar for a short while longer, before exploring another Croatian Island, Krocula. 

You can follow my summer adventure around the world on instagram @friendinfashion, twitter and facebook.

Photos / Tim Florea 

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LONDON TRAVEL DIARY

Westminster Abbey / Checking in to Citizen M Hotel / view of London Eye / Selfridges, Mary Katrantzou window / streets of Soho wearing Lucette coat & Esther dress / ASOS Fashion Finder Behind the Scenes / Shopping Oxford Circus  

Generally not more than a stop-over (and always lusting for more time), my brief visits to London are always a highlight of my travels and this week was no different.

After a quick visit in Dubai, I caught the red-eye to London, checking in to what has to be noted as one of my favourite hotels, Citizen M.

Jet-lagged and tired, I went to check in, only to realise that I had mistakenly booked my room a month earlier than my arrival - rookie mistake. Thankfully the team at Citizen M were so helpful and understanding, they were able to assist me and before I knew it I was changed an bound for my favourite shopping spot Oxford Circus. What is travel without adventure, the unknown and the unplanned.

A few hours into my visit, and early credit card damage done thanks to Selfridges, Cos, Urban Outfitters and Topshop, It was time for a bite in Soho (Vitao is my favourite vegetarian cafe in Soho - worth a visit). I always love a visit to Soho, an amazing creative/grungy vibe, unique only to London. Visits to Covent Gardens and Camden made sure that my short London visit was packed with great sights, shopping and tastes.

For those following @friendinfashion on Instagram, would have also noticed during my London visit, I was lucky enough to collaborate with ASOS and ASOS Fashion Finder, shooting some of my key holiday looks for the season. The team was amazing, as was the ASOS operation, with over 1000 staff.

Such an extraordinary experience - I can't wait to share the end results with you soon.

 

I've now landed in the Cote d'Azur, where I plan on spending as much time in the crystal blue Mediterranean as possible, as well as checking out the Festival de Cannes. My favourite time of year in the South of France.

Follow my journey on instagram @friendinfashion, twitter and facebook.

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SAMSONITE STYLE AMBASSADOR

Samsonite Firelite / Topshop tee / Sheinside skirt / Alexander Wang heels / MAC Morange

As I head aboard a plane on my way back from Bali, I'm thrilled to announce to that I'm collaborating with Samsonite Australia/New Zealand, as their style ambassador.

In May, I'll be heading off on a round-the-world adventure taking in the sights, sounds and fashion of some of my favourite countries, as well as some new ones. I'm lucky enough to have travelled extensively, and I have to say quality luggage is an absolute must.

In addition to being perfectly stylish, my new Samsonite FireLite, pictured here is incredible lightweight. The benefit of this? More luggage allowance for all my shopping finds! 

This week Samsonite will be giving away a Firelite suitcase in their Travel Light & Bright With Samsonite competition so you can score some fabulously stylish luggage of your own. Follow the link, and upload your travel photos for your chance to win.

Good luck!

Photos / Tim Florea

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BALI BOUND

Boohoo.com.au top / General Pants shorts / Tony Bianco heels

I post this, as I hurriedly pack the last of my tropical wardrobe for my first visit to Bali.

I've luckily enjoyed many trips to Asia - Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Japan, as well as living in Vietnam for part of 2010, but surprisingly (especially to most Aussies), I've never visited Bali.

I'm really looking forward to checking out a new city, meeting some locals, savouring delicious Indonesian cuisine, and of course the shopping!

Of course, I welcome any tips, must sees/dos.

Be sure to follow @friendinfashion on instagram for all of the adventure.  

Photos / Tim Florea

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PALAZZO

      Shakuhachi palazzo pants, Vamastyle tank, Tony Bianco sandals, Samantha Wills ring & bangle, Low Luv necklace via Eyegasm Brands (03 9528 7300)

  

I'm definitely a summer kind of gal.

If I had my way, I would spend my time chasing the warm weather around the world. Alternate trips between Europe and the Americas June-September, followed by Island hopping, en route to Australia for some beach fun to kick off the new year.

Enjoy and repeat.

This time round, the West Coast of the States, Mexico and Vancouver are calling me, and these exquisite silk palazzo pants will be sure to get a work out abroad. With heels or flats, I think there is something so sophisticated about a good palazzo pant, and Aussie label Shakuhachi sure are on to a winner with these.

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And the winner is...

As I'm MIA most of this week, with reliable internet difficult to come by, I thought I'd share with you a handful of my favourite travel looks: from Monaco to Romania to Switzerland, Melbourne to the Greek Islands.

It is also with great pleasure that I announce the winner of the Friend in Fashion/ Viparo leather jacket giveaway. Drum-roll please.....

Congratulations to Renna Whaleboat, who is the lucky winner of a brand new cropped sleeve biker jacket.

Thanks to everyone who entered, there were some fabulously stylish entries!

Be sure to stay tuned for another fantastic Friend in Fashion/ Viparo giveaway coming up very, very soon!

Luv,
Friend in Fashion
x

Tokyo

Absolutely head over heels for Tokyo!

I've spent the better part of this week exploring the incredible sights, sounds and fashion this amazing city has on offer.

It's all I hoped for and more. Copious amounts of fresh sushi, a never ending supply of neon, beautiful manicured gardens, Harajuku girls, and fabulous shopping on every street.

Already planning my next visit.

Luv,
Friend in Fashion
x

P.S. I'll be hopping on a plane tomorrow on my way back to Sydney for some crazy New Year celebrations, before relocating to Melbourne! So excited to check out the Melbourne fashion scene, sharing my adventures with you along the way.
xx

River deep, mountain high

Lake Como, where these pictures were taken, has got to be one of the most beautiful places I've been lucky enough to visit. A great place to relax, unwind and fitting for my latest tweed purchase.

I have a lot of changes and exciting times ahead, which I can't wait to share with you. All will be revealed soon, but if you can't wait, you can catch a sneak peak by following me on Twitter.

I'm wearing:
Blazer, H&M
Denim shirt, Pimkie
Tube skirt, DIY
Boots, Markets

Luv,
Friend in Fashion
x

P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway for your chance to win a $200 online shopping voucher, courtesy Frankie Sunshine

Blogger catch-up: Munich

Yesterday I had the pleasure of catching up with the beautiful Nahna Loves Fashion in Munich.

We had a great time sightseeing and indulging in some delicious Bavarian fare.

Only two more sleeps...

I'm wearing:
Denim shirt - also seen here: Pimkie
Shoes: Milan
x

P.S. Big thanks to the fabulously talented TF for the impromtu photoshoot - subway stylz!
xx

Blogger catch-up: Paris

Eiffel tower, baguettes, style & fashion sum up my latest visit to beyond-incredible Paris.

From exquisite architecture, to an abundance of highly skilled designers, to the overwhelming choice of fashion: from haute couture to chic street-wear Paris, for me has it all.

Every morning I would wake up to the smell of the bustling neighbouring pâtisserie, and start my day with a stroll down the Champs d'Élysées, admiring the effortless style of Parisian fashionistas.

One of the highlights of my visit to Paris was catching up with fellow bloggers Tellement PARIS and Hippie Chic. Both girls are absolutely stunning and so much fun! We had a great night eating, drinking & exchanging shopping tips & travel stories.

I've just arrived in Germany for a week before heading off to Switzerland. Back soon with an outfit post with my Paris purchases.

I'm wearing:
Blazer - Vintage
Dress - Markets (as seen here: What happens in Vegas)
X

P.S. BIG birthday kisses and hugs to the man behind the Friend in Fashion lens. Thank you for doing what you do best!
XX

French Riviera

The Côte d'Azur has absolutely stolen my heart!

The other day I hopped on a scooter and made the beautiful journey from Nice to Monaco, and today again from Nice to the beyond beautiful Cannes.

If you've been following my travels on twitter, you'll know that my days consist of sampling delicious Provençal fare, exploring the beautiful coast-line and ending each day with a dip in the crystal blue Mediterranean - paradise.

I'm wearing:
Dress: Zara
Sunglasses: Armani
Ring: Flea market, Seville

X

Tres chic

I've been fortunate enough to have spent the last 20 days exploring much of Spain and Portugal. San Sebastian and Lisbon have been two of my holiday highlights so far, and there has absolutely been no shortage of gorgeous fashion and accessories tempting me, particularly the endless choice of beautiful Spanish shoes!

This afternoon I arrived in Nice, and will be spending the next week and a bit exploring the French Riviera - Monaco, Saint-Tropez and Cannes, before heading to Paris. If there are any French bloggers keen for a 'blogger catch-up' do let me know.

I'm wearing:

Silk dress: Markets, Hanoi
Wedges: Zara
Ring: Markets, Seville

X

P.S. Thank you to my readers for your ongoing support, you absolutely make my day.

X