SPLIT, CROATIA. One day was not enough!

On our suite balcony - Riva Luxury Suites

In the little time we spent in Split, it left such a lasting feeling of relaxation. One day was most definitely not enough!

The second we arrived at our suites, the most luxurious rooms we'd had yet, I knew I this place was something special. When we booked with Riva Luxury Suites, a set of 3 luxury apartment suites in Split, we had no idea what awaited us. Hands down one of the best accommodations I've ever had traveling.

View from our balcony at Riva Luxury Suites

First the location, right smack dab in the heart and center of the main port. The views from all three suites were BREATHTAKING! Overlooking the the main street and the sea. This alone made us not want to leave the suites at all.

The rooms were spacious, clean, modern and had several amazing amenities, including a rooftop deck equipped with a sound system. Pair that with the complimentary champagne that greeted us and we were set! Both the rooftop and ultra huge terrace were the perfect spot to catch the sunset.

I have never dreaded leaving a hotel more than I did this one. But happy I was able to experience this piece of heaven even for a short time. For the shockingly reasonable rate, these suites were a steal! I'd recommend Riva Luxury Suites to anyone visiting Split.

During our day in Split we explored the small winding streets and ventured into Diocletian's palace, also Game of Thrones site for the city if Meereen. Didn't mind getting in touch with my inner Khaleesi for you Game of Thrones fans!

Split is much more quiet than Hvar, yet has a charm all its own from Dubrovnik. A city mixed with modern and classical touches, its beauty is undeniable and walking through its winding walls you can't help but feel a tad bit regal among Split's commanding presence.

Info

2 Comments

HVAR: Where I found Croatian fashion amongst the yacht life and beach parties

Stelavie in Hvar, Croatia. Dress by ASOS

The second stop during my visit to Croatia was the stunning island of Hvar. Famed as the posh destination for yacht week and glamorous beachside parties, the vibe in here was very different from that of Dubrovnik, yet matched its beauty.

After a four hour catamaran ride across the Adriatic, where we were lucky to catch the breathtaking sunset, we arrived in Hvar.

Turquoise blue water against the mediterranean architecture, with a coast lined with yachts, each bigger than the next. Did I just land into a scene from lifestyles of the rich and famous?!

There seemed to be a much larger tourist presence in Hvar, but it had a charm all on its own. More delicious seafood, all topped with more truffles. Lot's of pizza with a Croatian twist and all kinds of pastries filled with both savory and sweet goodness.

The crowds were both young and old, but all with one common objective in mind. To relax and have fun! Some brought their own parties as they pulled up in their massive yachts alongside the dozens of others who were there to do the same. While others, like the masses of college kids, ventured off to the beachside parties to enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand and music to set the tone.

Hula Hula Beach Bar. Photo by Christel Gellidon

My friends and I checked out the popular Hula Hula Beach Bar, known for having the best sunset view and best party scene to match. It did not disappoint. Tasty cocktails in a crowded setting along the coast, where you could choose to party hard alongside the DJ or sneak off to the amazing beach beds on the rocks and take in the sunset away from the crowd while still enjoying the music.

View from Hotel Amfora by Christel Gellidon

The view from our hotel, The Grand Hotel Amfora overlooked the Adriatic Sea and our own private beach. Five minutes walking distance to the main port of Hvar.

Bonj les Bains. Photo by Christel Gellidon

Take a walk with me, through the streets of Hvar.

We ventured away from the gorgeous coast into the narrow and winding cobble stoned paths inside Hvar. Lined with several shops and restaurants and, this is where the true locals of Hvar were.

Croatian Fashion

I stumbled upon a charming jewelry boutique, SOVILJ HVAR, selling unique, one of kind pieces, like the resin necklace I'm wearing below. I'm so happy to have discovered a Croatian designer in this wonderful shop.

A beautifully curated collection of wearable art, the owner and designer, Mr. Nenad Sovilj, is one of few well known Croatian designers. Inspired by nature and its elements, each piece is hand crafted like a sculpture by Mr. Sovilj. He often works with resin, metal and semi precious stones. His designs are unique, statement pieces and a beautiful Croatian piece of art indeed. And while my personal budget did not allow me to bring home one of his pieces on this trip, I will definitely be coming back to purchase a piece of Sovilj art on my next visit.

http://www.sovilj.com/

Info

Comment

CHANEL CRUISE 2014/2015 DEBUTS IN DUBAI

CHANEL CRUISE 2014/2015 DEBUTS IN DUBAI

Yesterday Karl Lagerfeld debuted the Chanel Cruise collection for 2014/15 in an ultra chic and exclusive fashion show held on a private island, named THE ISLAND, in Dubai. The setting alone speaks volumes for this fashion powerhouse’s ever evolving vision. It’s not just relevant but a force to be reckoned as it continues to command design driven fashion amongst today’s many market driven assortments.

With private boats that escorted the A-list guests to The Island, custom Chanel tents, cushioned floor seating and Arabic fare that set the mood of the evening, it was sure to be nothing short of magical. It was simply beautiful how the Lagerfeld not only chose Dubai as his venue, but incorporated the very culture and heart of the Emirate into his collection and presentation. This collaboration between the culture and fashion is the very ideal that gets me excited about fashion.

AH this even is everything I dream of. High Fashion. An Exotic Destination. Exclusivity and Luxury. Oh a girl can only dream to one day be invited to such an event.

It will happen. One day.

The collection was moving, with vibrant prints, lush textures and flowing lines. The Arabic culture clearly played a huge inspirational role as illustrated by the harem bottoms, intricate mosaic-like patterns and the heavy, ornate jewelry.

The undeniable signature piece was the gold quilted Jerrycan handbag. Structured. Editorial. Boundary blind.

Lagerfeld continues to leave us awestruck.

With my first trip to the Emirates planned for this coming November, this show has only fueled my excitement to discover the rich heritage and fashion Dubai has to offer.

Info

Comment

Stelavie

Take a walk with me, through the streets of Hvar.

Croatian Fashion