Community Forum - Blogs - merileekern http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/ en Thu, 23 May 2013 11:01:17 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.luxurylink.com/community/images/misc/rss.jpg Community Forum - Blogs - merileekern http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/ Waves and Wine: Pantai Inn and Sip Wine Bar http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/waves-wine-pantai-inn-sip-wine-bar-1550/ Wed, 26 Dec 2012 23:30:08 GMT Attachment 1246 (http://www.luxurylink.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=1246) *By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor* ...
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By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor

Locals and tourists alike have become accustomed to visiting the Del Mar Click image for larger version.  Name: Pantai+Inn.jpg  Views: 776  Size: 64.9 KB  ID: 1249Plaza in San Diego for exceptional wining and dining experiences. One cozy new venue - Sip Wine Bar - is already making a tasty mark on the local scene. Not far from the brand new Balinese-styled Pantai Inn in La Jolla – among other San Diego area Luxury Link properties – SIP is a perfect addition to any “Waves and Wine Weekend” agenda.

This intimate indoor/outdoor gastro-gem is an extension of its sister restaurant, Flavor Del Mar, which resides rooftop at the Plaza. The Sip space sits behind Flavor and, while this newbie often features some of the same menu items, has a flair all its own. Quite notably and true to its name, SIP boasts one of the most highly curated wine lists in the county courtesy of award-winning sommelier Jerome Astolfi, who also serves as General Manager.

Meanwhile, your one-bedroom villa with full ocean view at Pantai Inn delivers the “waves” portion of your Southen California getaway. Soak in the soothing sounds of the deep blue Pacific Ocean from your private balcony, or on those Click image for larger version.  Name: Pantai Living.jpg  Views: 321  Size: 70.4 KB  ID: 1250rare chilly San Diego days, curl up by the living room fireplace. A welcome bottle of wine and assortment of hand-crafted chocolates are included in your Luxury Link vacation experience, making a perfect precursor to a night out at Sip Wine Bar.

Sip’s exceptionally diverse wine program presents wineries from all over the world, allowing guests to sample diverse varietals and unexpected regions. The venue offers over 12 different wine flights with headings, such as “Bubbles,” "Great Summer Whites," and "Taste of the Old World." Even the most hardened Oenophiles will be impressed with SIP’s vast, well-conceived wine selections. Full bar premium liquors, cocktails, and craft beers are also available, including local San Diego brews from the Stone and Mission Breweries.
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Beyond Sip’s impressive wine flight programs and other libation options, Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski further delights guests with specialty cheeses, house cured charcuteries, and other small bites in addition to full size entrée options.

I recently visited Sip with a group of fun-loving gals for a happy hour. And, happy we were with our copious selections from Chef Redzikowski’s eclectic multi-cultural menu. For family-style starters, we shared the Duck Fat Fries with parmesan, roasted garlic, and chives ($6); bright, melt-in-your-mouth Sesame Seared Salmon Sashimi with ginger, chive, lemon-soy and Hon-Shimeji mushrooms ($15); Tuna Tacos with guacamole, red onion, micro cilantro and sour cream ($15); and Mexican Bay Scallop Ceviche with tomato, cucumber, onion, Peruvian chile and cilantro ($12).
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For dinner, we opted for the impossibly decadent Niman Ranch Double-Double Prime Beef Burger with arugula, caramelized onion, aged white cheddar, tomato confit, ketchup and mayo encased in a fresh brioche bun and served with Duck Fat Fries ($12); Shrimp and Beef Pad Thai with tomato, bean sprouts, scallion, and egg; and the three Pulled Pork Sliders—moist and tender shredded pork mixed with a sweet and tangy pineapple barbeque sauce and topped with spicy cole slaw ($14). Complementing our entrée selections was the side of Sautéed Greens—deep green broccolini, purple kale, 63 degree egg, and Manchego cheese spiced with chili oil ($12).

Perfectly punctuating this delightful epicurean experience was the Butterscotch Budino—layers of Italian pudding, caramel, créme fraîche and Maldon sea salt ($8). This dessert is an adventure all its own and, in itself, a draw to the location for many. The palates of chocolate lovers are also accommodated with SIP’s sinful Housemade Root Beer Float served with a brownie, chocolate chip cookie, candied walnuts and topped Click image for larger version.  Name: SIP Sign - Credit Sip at Flavor Del Mar.jpg  Views: 257  Size: 72.4 KB  ID: 1251with vanilla bean ice cream ($10).

Relaxed and non-pretentious, the interior of Sip at Flavor Del Mar features eclectic accents, including high-topped community tables made of solid and weathered tree slabs, a pounded copper bar, exposed Edison bulb chandeliers and menu chalk boards. Open, exposed wooden wine and champagne bottle storage is a prime focal point for the interior that gives the space a homey elegance. Anchoring the space is a custom built meat curing room where Chef Redzikowski produces house-made charcuterie and cured meats. Outside, patio seating provides a serene ambiance and views of the Pacific Ocean.

All things considered, Sip at Flavor Del Mar is a welcome addition to Del Mar's rapidly growing restaurant culture. A visit here coupled with a vacation or staycation to Pantai Inn – with its Indonesian-inspired restored bungalows, townhouses, and cottages perched along the northern coast of San Diego – ensures a getaway that is genuinely distinctive for any wine connoisseur.


"The Luxe List" Executive Review Editor Merilee Kern scours the luxury marketplace for exemplary travel experiences, extraordinary events, Name: Merilee.jpg Views: 169 Size: 44.2 KBand notable products and services. Submissions are accepted via e-mail at MKern@LuxuryLink.com. Follow her online at www.LuxeListReviews.com, on Twitter and on Facebook.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above were provided at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.*** ]]> merileekern http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/waves-wine-pantai-inn-sip-wine-bar-1550/ What is a ‘Foodie’? http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/what-%91foodie%92-1493/ Mon, 27 Aug 2012 20:57:55 GMT Attachment 934 (http://www.luxurylink.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=934) * By Merilee Kern The Luxe List Executive Editor* I was...
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By Merilee Kern
The Luxe List Executive Editor

I was recently immersed in casual conversation at a social function discussing my fine dining pursuits while traveling. So many resorts today have incredibly high-caliber gourmet restaurants on site. Cases in point, you can find a food and wine interest page on LuxuryLink.com, and browse a list of properties that are perfect for gourmands.
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In this conversation, I referred to myself as a “foodie”. The person I was speaking to looked at me quizzically, and asked “what makes someone a foodie…doesn’t everyone like food?”

To this, I replied with my own personal off-the-cuff definition of a foodie relative to why I consider myself one and what it generally means to me. My answer was this: “For a foodie, eating is more than an act…it’s an experience. Foodies don’t just eat a meal, they revel in it and regard all facets of the dish in the process: the ingredients used as well as how and where they were sourced, the preparation (and skill related thereto), taste, texture, smell and presentation.”

I was not at all prepared to answer this question so specifically, but was relatively satisfied with my on-the-fly answer that duly conveyed how I personally identify with the word “foodie.” The question weighed on me however, as I later wondered if I had defined it correctly in a universal sense. Had I aptly conveyed the intended sentiments that most associate with the word “foodie”—a moniker I wear with much pride?

In pondering this, I decided to query applicable industry purveyors who would have an interesting and presumably on-point perspective of the word. Here are some of the easily digestible definitions and perceptions of the term “foodie” that I received:

"Foodies are people that talk while they're eating. Maybe not with their mouth full, but they talk about the experience of what they’re eating, how it's cooked, who cooked it, the history of the dish, and more. Those things are all to be discussed, explored, and passed on as part of enjoying any meal. So the greater the diversity of what you eat, or the more fascinating the history - the more you have to talk about - and true Foodies seek that out more than others."
--Andrea Cutright, Foodily

“A foodie is someone who delights in all things food related and seeks the high quality experience and taste. Today foodies unite for events, grub crawls, yelp reviews, and even persuade restaurant owners to change menu items.”
--Brandon Sowers, BAMGAM.ORG

“A foodie is someone who seeks out experiences through flavor.”
--Babette Pepaj, BakeSpace.com

“A foodie is a person who is concerned enough about what they eat to search out the "best" food, know its source or provenance, and cares about flavor, taste, texture, aroma more than how much they can eat and how much it costs. Foodies often also want to eat seasonal. locally and sustainably produced food, too.”
--Jill Nussinow, The Veggie Queen

“The great differences between a foodie and person that just likes to eat, comes down to those who make it their mission to try every new restaurant and cuisine, those who spare no expense when it comes to eating out, and those who consider their free time to be a search for gastronomic delight; a foodie will go above and beyond, both budget and means, in an attempt to try the latest and greatest food around.”
--Simon Joseph, BiteHunte, Inc.

“The defining principles between a foodie and a eater of food is that a foodie delves into the why's, the flavors and the pairings of foods, always searching for defining moments, creating, and the uniqueness of the combinations. Although not an expert in the field as a Chef, a foodie revels in the newness of it, almost like a child at Christmas.”
--Chef Mary Beth Lawton Johnson, Executive Pastry Chef, Chef de Cuisine

“A foodie is a person who wants every bite to be an experience. Whether it’s simple comfort food or a complex dish, foodies want it fresh, carefully prepared and memorably seasoned. Foodies don’t drive thru, but they do walk up to trucks, trailers or stands.”
--Chef Chic Henderson, Potato-Potahto

“A foodie is somebody who likes to eat, definitively, however also a person who knows about food, where it comes from, what is in season, proper cooking techniques, responsibility how it is caught (fish) or raised (cattle, chicken, etc.). Who never overeats, who is ready to accept that cooking sometimes takes longer than 20 minutes, somebody who can enjoy, a gourmet, somebody who likes a large plate with little food on it.”
--Ula Robertson, At Your Service NY Catering

“A foodie is someone who is extremely passionate about food; it's a way of life for them. They are in the know and want to be the first in their group to find out about the newest trends such as an up and coming chef, restaurant openings, restaurant pop ups and cannot miss the weekly local farmers market. Foodies are extremely knowledgeable about the food they are eating while someone who loves food may not know where the food came from but enjoys the dining experience. [A Quintessential] foodie dish: brown butter basted abalone with roatsed sweet corn speatzle and a Bordelaise jus."
--Chris Brugler, Chris Brugler Catering

“As a personal chef, I believe the difference is truly the appreciation of ingredients, subtle flavors and unique flavors. Someone who loves to eat will enjoy a good meal. A foodie will know that you used porcini mushrooms over generic, yuzu over lemon juice and champagne vinegar in their dressing. The foodie questions the ingredients, discusses the recipe. The lover just wants seconds. Lovers order what they know in a restaurant. Foodies order what’s different. Lovers shop one grocery store. Foodies will spend the day visiting specialty shops for ingredients. It is truly love vs. passion.”
--Laura MacDougall, Home Plate Advantage

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"The Luxe List" Executive Editor Merilee Kern scours the luxury marketplace for exemplary travel experiences, extraordinary events, and notable products and services. Submissions are accepted at www.LuxeListReviews.com. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above were provided at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.*** ]]> merileekern http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/what-%91foodie%92-1493/ Shop for the Cause: Breast Cancer Awareness Style with Substance - Part 2 http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/shop-cause-breast-cancer-awareness-style-substance-part-2-1344/ Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:32:02 GMT More program-promoting products of October Breast Cancer Awareness Month that’ll leave you tickled pink:

Happy First "Survivor Chick" Tee (www.happyfirst.com) - $34
Founded by cancer survivor Debbie Vinyard, this shirt and line overall is designed to encourage cancer victims, survivors, and really everyone to enjoy each moment, keep a positive attitude, and start each day being “Happy First” and then making it last. The 100% ringspun cotton jersey Survivor Chick tee is cute and comfy. It's generous in the sizing - a woman's cut versus junior - but is still feminine and tapered with a V neckline. It comes in both lilac and lavender and sizes, ranging from small to 2X.

Happy First is donating 15% of all sales of this "Survivor Chick" design to Breast Impressions, which funds education, prevention, and research and also makes “castings” for women before they have surgery to create a lasting memory.

UniqueVintage.com Scarves (www.unique-vintage.com) - $25-$28
There is something quite romantic about vintage clothing and accessories. It's probably the mystery of their unknown origins coupled with the uniqueness of each item. How drab it is to look like everyone else in the era of mass production. This is why I love Unique-Vintage, which hand selects distinctive designer vintage clothing items and accessories – unique and classic retro pieces from the 50’s and 60’s that will add a unique and interesting twist to your wardrobe. The company’s Pink Pom Pom scarf is one such item. This statement scarf, made of 100% cotton and measuring 82x26, is perfect for accessorizing a t-shirt or blouse. Unique-Vintage’s Mauve Pom Pom Crinkle Scarf is also retro glam with alternating sections of pom poms and crinkle cotton fabric.

During the month of October, 20% of the proceeds of these scarves will be donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, which helps provide free mammograms for women in need to promote early breast cancer detection


LipSense “Kiss for a Cause” Lip Color (www.SeneGence.com) - $22
LipSense long-lasting liquid lip color is unlike any conventional lipstick, stain, or color. These kiss-proof, smudge-proof and lead-free colors, manufactured without animal testing, stay on for up to 12 hours and are available in over 50 shades. LipSense shades can be combined to create hundreds of custom color possibilities. The company’s limited edition “Kiss for a Cause” is a fantastic fuchsia hue sure to perk up your pout.

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, through October 31, 2011, SeneGence International is donating 5% of the wholesale price from every tube of the limited-edition “Kiss for a Cause” LipSense to the American Breast Cancer Foundation for a minimum of $1,000 dollars.


Ford Strengh of Warrior Tee (www.shopwarriorsinpink.com) - $20
Show strength and conviction in the fight against breast cancer with this Strength of a Warrior statement tee. Black super-soft jersey material is complimented by the worn texture of the burnout design. Gray, white, and pink WARRIOR text and graphic symbols duly empowers and inspires the wearer and onlookers alike.

To date, Ford has dedicated more than $110 million to the breast cancer awareness cause. 100% of net proceeds of this item - $12.55 each - will go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.



~~~

"The Luxe List" Executive Review Editor Merilee Kern scours the luxury marketplace for exemplary travel experiences, extraordinary events, and notable products and services. Submissions are accepted via e-mail at MKern@LuxuryLink.com. Follow her online at www.LuxeListReviews.com, on Twitter at http://twitter.com/LuxeListEditor and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above were provided at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.*** ]]> merileekern http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/shop-cause-breast-cancer-awareness-style-substance-part-2-1344/ Shop for the Cause: Breast Cancer Awareness Style with Substance - Part 1 http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/shop-cause-breast-cancer-awareness-style-substance-part-1-1343/ Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:30:20 GMT *By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor* Cause conscious consumerism is all the rage, allowing socially-responsible shoppers to... By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor


Cause conscious consumerism is all the rage, allowing socially-responsible shoppers to vote their values through commerce. Companies are increasingly learning that good deeds are good business. Breast Cancer Awareness is one worthy cause-based shopping opportunity, allowing caring consumers to offer support while spending. With October Breast Cancer Awareness Month upon us, here are a few notable program-promoting products that’ll leave you tickled pink:

Full Set of Pink to Peach Freshwater Pearls (www.PearlParadise.com) - $167
This stunning set is comprised of round (AAA) or near-round (AA+), natural-color pink to peach 6.5-7.0 mm freshwater pearls. The necklace is available in two lengths - 16 or 18 inches, while the bracelet comes in a standard bracelet length of 7.5 inches. On both the necklace and the bracelet, the pearls are individually knotted on silk, and each strand is finished with solid 14-karat gold clasps. Traditional stud earrings complete the lovely look. The set comes complete with an elegant gift presentation and storage box along with a pearl care kit: cleaning instructions and a polishing cloth to keep these baubles in tip top shape. I also find it quite notable that, at PearlParadise.com, every necklace, bracelet, and set of earrings is made to order.
For the entire month of October, PearlParadise.com is putting all of the pink pearls in its inventory on sale at 15% off with promotion code, CURE. Also, 25% of all proceeds from pink pearl sales will be donated to the Tower Cancer Research Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to cutting edge cancer therapy that is administered with a compassionate, human perspective.

Chelsea Taylor Crystal Ribbon Pendant (www.chelseataylor.com) - $122

Among Chelsea Taylor’s gorgeous collection of fine Crystallized Swarovski Element-adorned jewelry is the new Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon pendant. Adorned with a cascading array of brilliant pink crystals, this pendant helps you show your support while still remaining high-fashion.

Chelsea Taylor is donating 25% of sales for the month of October to the Save the Ta-Tas Foundation who funds are used primarily to support independent scientific research.



LIVESTRONG Air Pegasus+ 28 LAF (www.nike.com/livestrong) - $90
Pink power! The LIVESTRONG Air Pegasus+ 28 LAF Women's Running Shoe is a great choice for neutral runners looking for top-notch cushioning, a comfortable ride, and the women’s-specific fit that can make or break a great run. Improving upon the well-cushioned classic with an enhanced upper, featuring Flywire for premium support, the shoe features breathable mesh and a full-length Cushion foam midsole for extra soft, responsive cushioning and great forefoot flexibility. Additionally, the LIVESTRONG Air Pegasus+ 28 LAF has a Flywire panel on the mid-foot for targeted support and a secure fit. Flywire is made of thin, nylon fibers that are ultra-strong and ultra-lightweight for support that won't weigh you down. This women's running shoe also features arch support to help stabilize the foot while letting it move naturally. Plus, the outsole is crafted with a carbon rubber heel made from environmentally preferred product while a waffle outsole throughout provides durable traction and gender-specific flex grooves.

The Lance Armstrong Foundation’s LIVESTRONG initiativeis committed to supporting women’s health and the health of female cancer survivors. The Foundation will receive a guaranteed minimum amount annually from Nike. Since 2004, Nike has helped the Lance Armstrong Foundation raise more than $80 million to benefit the 28 million people in the world who are living with cancer.


FlipOut Sandals (FlipOut Sandals) - $60
Take a stylish stand and show support from head to toe in a pair of Haute Pink Jelly FlipOut Sandals. These deep pink jelly-style flip flops adorned with a fabulous genuine crystal Pink Daisy - crafted pavé-style for maximum brilliance - to aptly honor this important cause. Making these blinged out sandals even better is the fact that the dazzling crystal shoe jewelry is interchangeable with just a twist of the wrist, transforming into an endless collection of fab footwear. Additional pieces of shoe jewelry are available online and retail between $9.99 and $24.99.

Throughout the month of October, FlipOut Sandals will help stomp out this disease by donating a full 25% of proceeds from every pair of Haute Pink Jelly Sandals purchased on its site to the American Cancer Society.


Avon Breast Cancer Crusade Denim Jacket (www.avon.com) - $45
This limited edition, pink denim jacket is classic and comfortable. Made from cotton with spandex and completely machine washable, the long sleeve jacket features four stylish front pockets and decorative metal buttons. The Crusade message, “Wear It to End It,” is imprinted on the inside collar. The item is available in small, medium, large and extra large.

The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade has raised and donated almost $700 million to breast cancer programs around the world. Fully 100% of the net profit - $27.07 – of the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade Denim Jacket will go back to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade.


Ford Power of Pink Hoodie (www.shopwarriorsinpink.com) - $45
The Ford Motor Company has gone soft! It’s offering this comfy and contemporary, long sleeve waffle-weave, zip-up hoodie in a bright pink, which adds a powerful pop of color to any wardrobe while also making a fierce fashion statement. With the word, “WARRIOR,” boldly emblazoned across both the chest and back, this is one hoodie to wear loud and proud! This is from the company’s “Warriors in Pink” apparel line that continues to feature symbols representing strength, hope, love and courage.

To date, Ford has dedicated more than $110 million to the breast cancer awareness cause. 100% of net proceeds of this item - $24.10 each - will go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.



OtterBox Commuter SeriesStrength cases (www.otterbox.com) - $35
With this cool case, your smartphone device will be pretty in pink. OtterBox Commuter SeriesStrength cases have a sleek and stylish multi-layer design suitable for the Apple iPhone 4, HTC EVO 3D, and BlackBerry Torch™ II (cases for additional devices are coming soon). But, this case isn’t just a pretty face; it’s also functional. First, a self-adhering screen film keeps the display free of scratches. A white silicone jacket wraps around the device to absorb shock and provide grip while a thin yet strong pink polycarbonate shell rounds out the protective layers and helps the device slide easily in and out of a pocket or purse. The power button, volume rocker, and home button remain fully functional while silicone plugs keep dust and dirt out of the charging port and headphone jack but also flip open for easy access.

After generating a donation of over $179,000 to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade last year, OtterBox once again pledged a one-year commitment to support the cause with their Strength lineup. Ten percent of the purchase price of these limited edition cases is given to help provide everyone access to quality care regardless of ability to pay. ]]> merileekern http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/shop-cause-breast-cancer-awareness-style-substance-part-1-1343/ Luxe Home Swap Stylish Home Exchange Vacations http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/luxe-home-swap-stylish-home-exchange-vacations-1338/ Mon, 22 Aug 2011 17:50:31 GMT *By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor *Luxe Home Swap (http://www.luxehomeswap.com/), the world’s leading site for stylish home... By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor

Luxe Home Swap, the world’s leading site for stylish home exchange vacations, is part of a revolution in social travel. Through this elite accommodations exchange service jet setters enjoy high end home exchange vacations worldwide, benefitting from more comfortable and authentic residential settings that many globe trotters prefer - particularly for longer term jaunts.
Members may swap as many times as they like, wherever they like!

Annual membership for the service is $159 and members can stay for free in amazing locations all over the world, in exchange for the chance for other members to vacation in their home. Making this service even more accessible for those who want to "test the water" before diving into the proverbial deep end, Luxe Home Swap recently partnered with Elysiants, a leading social network for those who celebrate life in style, whose members can now join Home Swap for 4 weeks for only $1.

“Our members save an average of $3,000 per swap,” notes Luxe Home Swap founder Debbie Wosskow. "Also, it's very common for swaps to include cars, ski equipment and other benefits and amenities, so the savings can be much higher."

Luxe Home Swap offers savvy travellers a chance to be an "insider" in global geographies of choice. Here's your chance to live like a local wherever in the world you want to go. Luxe Home Swap, the world’s leading site for stylish home exchange vacations, is part of a revolution in social travel. Through this elite accommodations exchange service jet setters enjoy high end home exchange vacations worldwide, benefitting from more comfortable and authentic residential settings that many globe trotters prefer - particularly for longer term jaunts.
Members may swap as many times as they like, wherever they like!

Annual membership for the service is $159 and members can stay for free in amazing locations all over the world, in exchange for the chance for other members to vacation in their home. Making this service even more accessible for those who want to "test the water" before diving into the proverbial deep end, Luxe Home Swap recently partnered with Elysiants, a leading social network for those who celebrate life in style, whose members can now join Home Swap for 4 weeks for only $1.

“Our members save an average of $3,000 per swap,” notes Luxe Home Swap founder Debbie Wosskow. "Also, it's very common for swaps to include cars, ski equipment and other benefits and amenities, so the savings can be much higher."

Luxe Home Swap offers savvy travellers a chance to be an "insider" in global geographies of choice. Here's your chance to live like a local wherever in the world you want to go. ]]> merileekern http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/luxe-home-swap-stylish-home-exchange-vacations-1338/ Ryan Haber Collection Debuts Fierce Footwear Line http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/ryan-haber-collection-debuts-fierce-footwear-line-1336/ Wed, 03 Aug 2011 17:40:35 GMT *By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor* Those indelibly on the hunt for a fierce footwear statement need look no further than the Ryan... By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor

Those indelibly on the hunt for a fierce footwear statement need look no further than the Ryan Haber Collection’s “DANGEROUS” shoe. Walk on the wild side with this python-printed leather bootie, priced at $933, which strikes just the right chord with its sleek and sexy serpentine silhouette.

Intricate cut outs in this 3/4 ankle bootie show just the right amount of skin amid contrasting python and metallic leather. Stud work on the back and the zipper on the medial of the shoe ups the cool quotient of these killer kicks. A four and a half inch heel completes the sultry look, assuring optimum visual appeal for the foot and leg.

“Everyone needs one great animal-print in their closet, and this is it!,” asserts Haber. “DANGEROUS can perfectly transition from the office with a great suit to a night on the town in a little black dress.”

DANGEROUS debuted as part of Haber’s premier “ALTER EGO” line featuring 18 different styles in a total of 46 colorways. Equally scintillating styles with menacing monikers like MONSTER, MISTRESS and FREAK have the fashion industry a-buzz. And with good reason, as Haber’s distinctive design aesthetic leaves hard core shoe savants longing for more.

ALTER EGO is the newest women’s line from the Ryan Haber Collection, known for innovative, technically advanced footwear that exudes luxury. The designer’s exquisite taste in Italian leathers, eye for detail, and penchant for hand construction is apparent, as is Haber’s architectural aptitude as he lovingly sculpts each shoe’s heel structure.

Haber has always had “thing” architecture, fashion and women, also believing that you can tell a lot about a woman by the shoes on her feet. His passions converged while studying interior design at The Cleveland Institute of Art, where he would spend off hours sketching shoes and adding his architectural sensibility to the designs. This attraction to shoe design led him to gain hands-on experience through internships at BCBG Max Azria in Los Angeles and Steve Madden in New York City. Today Haber is a formidable fashion footwear force in his own right.

This season, step out in this DANGEROUS statement shoe and be prepared to tap in to that side of your personality hell-bent on excitement!

~~~

"The Luxe List" Executive Review Editor Merilee Kern scours the luxury marketplace for exemplary travel experiences, extraordinary events, and notable products and services. Submissions are accepted via e-mail at MKern@LuxuryLink.com. Follow her online at www.LuxeListReviews.com, on Twitter at LuxeListReviews.com (LuxeListEditor) on Twitter and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above were provided at no cost to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.*** ]]> merileekern http://www.luxurylink.com/community/blogs/merileekern/ryan-haber-collection-debuts-fierce-footwear-line-1336/