tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34698165105135921142024-03-19T10:48:24.533+02:00Life and luxuryObservations, ideas, impressions, all linked to life and luxury...written by a young luxury industry professionalIngehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.comBlogger185125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-33557950634964626612016-12-24T00:43:00.000+02:002016-12-24T00:43:00.608+02:00zChocolat: A Bundle of Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For me, food is identity. It is history and tradition. But most of all, it is love.</div>
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It is all of that, because in sharing it, you create bonds. Bonds related to generations before you and those that are to follow. Bonds to your family and all your loved ones. You create memories and gift magical moments which will stay with you forever.</div>
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Chocolate is a symbol of love, but it also stands for passion, for care and friendship. Its ingredients make us relax, give us a feeling of comfort and give us joy.</div>
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So this Christmas, why don't you gift your loved one something from zChocolat's Holiday Collection ?! zChocolat is always on top of my list when it comes to gifting highest quality products with a story and with heart. They represent Pascal Caffet's true passion as a World Champion Chocolatier. </div>
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I have received my Go-To Gift Bundle this week at the office, where we were all in pre-Christmas mood, and my joy was enormous. The bundle is made of traditional and exotic assortment with a complimentary praline assortment. Each assortment is packed in an elegant black pouch containing a booklet with the description of each numbered chocolate and its containing flavours. Next to the booklet, I found a personalized message addressed to me, an added extra to make me feel even more special. If you plan on sending such a bundle at last minute as a gift, you can include such a personalized card to make your loved one feel appreciated and loved.</div>
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Christmas, the time for creating memories and giving love to close ones, is just around the corner. A few clicks away, and this "bundle of joy" can reach someone who is special for you. So...what are you waiting for? Go ahead and make a gift of love!</div>
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<br />Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com258tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-24201317620220899512016-12-21T17:25:00.001+02:002016-12-21T17:25:39.896+02:00Turkish Sweets in Istanbul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you are in Istanbul, this is for sure a place which should be on the top of your "To Do" list. I was lucky enough to stumble upon it by mistake (and what a happy mistake that was), because what you find inside this sweets shop in Fatih is a real paradise.</div>
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With a history of over 130 years, this family shop continues to make sweets like in the days of Osman Effendi, the founder of this Ottoman sweets shop. To honor him and their tradition, the name of the shop was changed to OSMANLIZADELER, meaning "Sons of Ottoman".</div>
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There are a lot of sweets to choose from, and at the Turkish Delight counter you even get to taste. That will make your choice even more difficult, because everything is just yummy! You have a lot of pistachio, raisins, rose petals, coconut etc adorning the tasty sweets. My favourites were those made from watermelon - a truly unique desert!</div>
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Next time I'm in Istanbul, this place is for sure one of my first destinations. And so should it be for you ;)</div>
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Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com67tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-36921472339269988202016-03-24T08:30:00.000+02:002016-03-24T08:30:00.215+02:00Easter Duo - An Easter Choice from zChocolat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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From when I was just a child, I remember the sun, the green grass and the blooming nature around me on Easter days. And something special called the Easter egg hunt. Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles would hide for us, children, coloured Easter eggs, chocolate eggs and chocolate bunnies in the fresh grass. It was a competition to see, who had the best strategy and nose for finding as many goodies as possible. But it also was a joyful game filled with laughter and happiness on our faces. We were happy for those small things we would find, because we knew they were gifted with love.</div>
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When I received the Easter Duo from zChocolat, I immediately thought of those happy moments. In the two boxes with chocolates, each piece is a new discovery. Once you open the boxes with 18 pralines and 36 solid chocolates, you will find charming little chocolate seashells, chickens, eggs, crabs, fish, bunnies and many more. White chocolate, milk chocolate and dark chocolate, there is a discovery with each piece you take. And once you bite on the pralines, you taste the hazelnutty crunchiness - just amazing. It reminded me of another zChocolat product I love and have previously written about - the zChocolat <a href="http://www.ingridslifeandluxury.com/2016/01/zchocolat-is-spreading-love.html" target="_blank">spreads</a>. What the duo does most of all is to enable you to share the joy I felt when I was a little child: the joy of searching and discovering new treasures, of sharing the happiness with the loved ones and of sharing the love. Because each and every one of these pieces are made with love and a huge attention to detail. </div>
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Each recipe is formulated by Pascal Caffet, World Champion Chocolatier, by following French tradition: no alcohol, no preservatives, high cocoa content, low sugar and 100% pure cocoa butter. All products are presented in a stylish cotton pouch which has a front pouch in which you can find a booklet about the products but also send a personalized message to the receiver of the chocolates. It is like a greeting card and it adds a very personal touch to the products. Wrapping can be also personalized. But what counts the most, is that they can be delivered the next day worldwide, leaving no excuse for the Easter bunny!</div>
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So wherever you might be engaging on an Easter Egg hunt, zChocolat Easter duo can reach you and amaze your taste buds as well. Believe me - it's worth it!</div>
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-19557255227266486162016-02-25T09:30:00.000+02:002016-02-25T09:30:15.862+02:00Turning 30 - 10 Facts Which Make You Feel Good About It<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmWRG5PSA8DM1jSHYYZGAHz3upYSpC5AbiZ8WeiTPlWGSjFKwl9oSE3DnknIs0xLCwvNBGiDZu2LpEtsfVn_K7mqem0m-M2EgEODKKC6XsE3mxQIlePLocuhEJRkWVbijc26aY24cBtqx/s1600/Turning30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmWRG5PSA8DM1jSHYYZGAHz3upYSpC5AbiZ8WeiTPlWGSjFKwl9oSE3DnknIs0xLCwvNBGiDZu2LpEtsfVn_K7mqem0m-M2EgEODKKC6XsE3mxQIlePLocuhEJRkWVbijc26aY24cBtqx/s320/Turning30.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Recent events, such as being somehow been involved in planning a ten year reunion since finishing school or watching pictures of music stars or footballers, who were all very young once, when their posters hung up my wall, but now have grown older and more responsible as they have teenage kids, these recent events have made me think about my age, about myself, soon to turn 30. I admit, at first, there's this brief panicky moment, but then you start to think and come to the conclusion, that this might just be the perfect age.<br />
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I've made a list with some things which make me feel good about myself, about my age,...maybe some of you will relate to it:</div>
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<b>1. You're the most confident you've ever been.</b></div>
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You pay your bills, YOU take your own decisions, you have responsibilities (for yourself, your team at work, your family), and all this makes you strong, makes you know exactly what you want to do, and when!</div>
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<b>2. You're the healthiest you've ever been.</b></div>
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Ok, maybe not, but you definitely pay more attention than ever to your health: you work out, not because it's a trend, but because you feel like it. You also know now, that it's beneficial, both to your body and to your mind. You may have an ache here or there, but you are fitter than ever. Some even take on competitions such as marathons, biathlons, triathlons, but also those who do their thing privately, at home, on their yoga mat, will feel wonderfully afterwards.</div>
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<b>3. You keep a healthy diet.</b></div>
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And by that I don't mean that you starve yourself on a fruit bar (I have never done that), but it means that you know what good food is. You've stopped shoveling down your throat all the junk food you could get and now look for quality. You have started enjoying food also as art, so you even go to famous chef restaurants, but you also know how to cook meals (others also appreciate your food). You go to markets and know by now how to pick your food and ....if you're really careful about your diet, you by now eat local and seasonal products.</div>
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<b>4. You keep a healthy drinking diet.</b></div>
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You don't drink as you used a few years ago.First of all, you know your limits now. Second, you don't need the feeling of numbness anymore. What you want is to appreciate what is there, in your glass. You ask for wine pairings for your dishes at the restaurant, you open a bottle of vintage champagne on a special occasion, you discover cocktails with a mixologist and discuss more about what is there in front of you.</div>
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<b>5. You know what to wear.</b></div>
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Yes, you've heard and understood by now what dress-codes are, you have read some books about style and you've found yours. You know about fabrics and you choose quality now over the fast paced passing trends. Your wardrobe is now a mixture between high fashion (because you can afford this now) and some things from low fashion stores you used to fancy when you were younger. That's ok, because all that what you choose is stylish, of good quality, and can be worn many seasons to come.</div>
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<b>6. You know your friends and foes.</b></div>
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You may have already undergone several spring cleaning sessions of your facebook account, and you don't have 1000 friends anymore. Nor are the 400 left. You know already that there are only 2-5 people you can count on at any time of the day or night, no matter their geographic location. You've stopped hoping for everyone liking you because you know, that is not going to happen. There are few who like us with all our good parts but especially with all our flaws. Cherish these people.</div>
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<b>7. You've learned to enjoy your alone-time.</b></div>
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Not going out on a Friday evening used to frighten a lot of us. It probably meant that we hadn't been cool enough during that week in order for us to have made plans with other "kids". Today, you know there is nothing better than being able to say: I have me-plans. You can stay at home in bed with a great novel or watch a movie, you can even take weekend trips or walks in the park...alone. Because you feel good about yourself and there is no need for someone else's opinion. Because you've become a person you enjoy being around with.</div>
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<b>8. You own something.</b></div>
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Some have a shoe collection, a collection of statement bags, a laptop, a car, a house, a pricy ring...it doesn't matter that much WHAT, but what matters is THAT you OWN something. You've earned it through your hard work and you can be proud of it. You've long ended the time when mum or dad used to give you money for anything. You work - you choose - you own. And it's a great feeling of accomplishment.</div>
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<b>9. You teach.</b></div>
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No, not in school. You might however be someone's mentor at work. And this gives you another feeling of accomplishment: you've once received (guidance) and now you can give that back, to someone else. And off work, you might have some younger relatives who look up to you. Guide them wisely!</div>
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<b>10. You have investments.</b></div>
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I'm not referring to some sort of real estate fortune, but rather to your way of knowing how to plan long-term. You might have a private health insurance, a life insurance, a pension fond, and when you start buying furniture now (or other things), you don't stick to the student-cheapest-as-you-can-get mentality, but rather think of how you will use it in the years to come. You buy a good mattress or a pillow, because you know sleep is one of the most important things to a happy life. You buy real jewelry instead of the shiny or plasticky one. You buy long lasting garments. You own art pieces.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHgh6Zu8B9OZtMp8QmJkJZfpnkLxR7CjFHIOKhLVphU8HLU3qdDMbZuc5g18SRhyAyGX8mKYD0kawqVBKPFaUmFEWlDGAckZ1EwoioM2tCyPwhXu-LwNgO_zwSGlA6ewTQSyFEKNb6K7Z/s1600/turning30balloons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHgh6Zu8B9OZtMp8QmJkJZfpnkLxR7CjFHIOKhLVphU8HLU3qdDMbZuc5g18SRhyAyGX8mKYD0kawqVBKPFaUmFEWlDGAckZ1EwoioM2tCyPwhXu-LwNgO_zwSGlA6ewTQSyFEKNb6K7Z/s320/turning30balloons.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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So sit back, relax, and enjoy all that you have achieved. Sip a glass of Champagne and start making plans for the next 30 years. Oh,...and enjoy the cake! You've earned it! </div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Picture sources: <a href="http://beautynook.ie/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/turning-30_m.jpg" target="_blank">1</a>, <a href="http://www.oohlalexi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/581573_926424156765_800553494_n.jpg" target="_blank">2</a>. </span></div>
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-27398800898206209332016-01-18T09:30:00.000+02:002016-01-18T09:30:11.500+02:00 Istanbul Story: A Walk Through Gülhane Park <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-HTN1pLugpLzvDZ-tPgIO-Wqw8xd-dFDnDiI0TT5FxonriF-NbxRANPNs4RP_5humok7xcnxkoCbNOGQh8wd_KvSgyTjuMKQFGqyDJXjFvn8yzUN252FPA2L2bXqYIBzmJq5z5DfzelVP/s1600/20150729_122008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-HTN1pLugpLzvDZ-tPgIO-Wqw8xd-dFDnDiI0TT5FxonriF-NbxRANPNs4RP_5humok7xcnxkoCbNOGQh8wd_KvSgyTjuMKQFGqyDJXjFvn8yzUN252FPA2L2bXqYIBzmJq5z5DfzelVP/s400/20150729_122008.jpg" width="225" /> </a></div>
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A wonderful way to pass a few (or even many) hours in Istanbul, is going to Gülhane Park. Gül means "rose" in Turkish, so the name of the park means rosehouse park. The flower arrangements are lovely, but what I valued the most was the shadow from the old trees, especially the tall plane trees. They help you escape the hot summer days and the hustle and bustle from the Sultanahmet or Eminonu area. The tranquility is wonderful for a city like Istanbul, where you can never hide from agitation.</div>
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This
park was originally part of the outer garden of the Topkapi Palace, and
was open as a park to the public in 1912 for the first time.</div>
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If you
slowly walk uphill around the exterior wall of Topkapi Gardens, you will
see a gate which leads towards the castle. And close-by a simple coffee
and tea house with one of the best views of the Bosphorus which I had. This was the best place to find tranquility in the oh-so-busy-and-loud Istanbul. It was the place where I found peace and enjoyed everything that was happening to me. So why don't you take a walk up there as well.</div>
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Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com110tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-9368347002909538442016-01-14T09:30:00.000+02:002016-01-14T09:30:14.637+02:00zChocolat is Spreading The Love...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNhB1NRYpziASO2c_F68EGstLoskIaAtvaMgQ4vdLOThCloLDb8Yg1xy1E1szhHwHD1mcOvDjlbvUQT5xa7r43bG-uZZ7WU5h9WrpL343CgkwVXY5QrkajjLsVvmsbUq4oXLAJeafcJx70/s1600/JPK_8045+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNhB1NRYpziASO2c_F68EGstLoskIaAtvaMgQ4vdLOThCloLDb8Yg1xy1E1szhHwHD1mcOvDjlbvUQT5xa7r43bG-uZZ7WU5h9WrpL343CgkwVXY5QrkajjLsVvmsbUq4oXLAJeafcJx70/s320/JPK_8045+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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...the love for chocolate, that is, by having introduced this new series of products: the chocolate spreads.<br />
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I was more than overwhelmed when I received my own jar of almond spread, one of the 3 flavours from the collection. It's my favourite thing to have at breakfast or for sweet snack, and it goes particularly well on warm toast bread. It's also recommended on pancakes or warm waffles, but I wouldn't like anything to distract me just a tiny bit from the wonderful flavour of this spread.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyBbc1SSXQKW3Mif1DzTfNYei2kMk_VYZqxAJYNlNewjTUiQtfK1Qz1UQaKZI-AOlIZjmb35k6ao3-A5XNGzlfIjHfSYJqxNWj52IZZUECEW1TcNlfF2dB9HmLFZaUvPVguCJY7B4XOf48/s1600/amande_F_Ju.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyBbc1SSXQKW3Mif1DzTfNYei2kMk_VYZqxAJYNlNewjTUiQtfK1Qz1UQaKZI-AOlIZjmb35k6ao3-A5XNGzlfIjHfSYJqxNWj52IZZUECEW1TcNlfF2dB9HmLFZaUvPVguCJY7B4XOf48/s320/amande_F_Ju.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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By now you know have learned a great deal about the zChocolats' classic assortments from my previous posts. The chocolates are handcrafted in France by the World Champion
Chocolatier and Meilleur Ouvrier, Pascal Caffet. For him, chocolate is
an experience, which you will surely understand once you taste one of
his 26 recipes created especially for ZChocolat, for which he uses no
preservatives, no artificial colouring, 100% pure cocoa butter, modest
sugar, high cocoa content, no alcohol, and only the best choice for the
other ingredients as well, such as Piedmont hazelnuts, Iranian
pistaccio, violets, raspberry, Sri Lankan coconut etc.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJdVbqqhxOJJTrwgc6RhtXbDa40aQmT_iTjh-SvdHdDgoIy9UD-pndFtOURcqenBqLNU-yT_859K9csyf81qG_Akv2wkB3HE7XMmSmt9J02EbdAUt3mKZ8lpiCuyLnLCc6fjt4cD01aOO/s1600/JPK_8048_br%25C3%25BBl%25C3%25A9_654x654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJdVbqqhxOJJTrwgc6RhtXbDa40aQmT_iTjh-SvdHdDgoIy9UD-pndFtOURcqenBqLNU-yT_859K9csyf81qG_Akv2wkB3HE7XMmSmt9J02EbdAUt3mKZ8lpiCuyLnLCc6fjt4cD01aOO/s320/JPK_8048_br%25C3%25BBl%25C3%25A9_654x654.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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But let me tell you a bit more about this new line of products zChocolat has. The spread collection is a flashback of childhood memories. There are 3 jars to choose from in this collection: peanuts praline spread, hazelnuts praline spread and almonds praline spread. They are handmade, crafted from finely crushed peanuts, hazelnuts and almonds combined with at least 40% Ivory coast milk chocolate. It's delicious, and it's a "nutty" spread for sure.The crunchiness of the spread is in perfect balance with its smoothness and it just leaves you craving for more. For more memories from the past, for more you-time when you enjoy a good sweet breakfast or an afternoon tea with zChocolat's spread collection, for more such delicious bites. Once again, this brand has now failed in surprising me and has done a great job in choosing this line of products to make. For children or adults who dream with every bite...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4zBZWbXrEy8tNDva_Q5LsxOt4dfBeq9CDLfYF9rUu-bq-cIZE1bHZPCH58gjO7-WR5cFa2JS4DiajduCQLA9tabcxgVqZOf5mP4xBez92Ek_B2t8v0hogtr7T8LuYPhIPwsthgSXY6fy/s1600/3_POTS_02_blanc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4zBZWbXrEy8tNDva_Q5LsxOt4dfBeq9CDLfYF9rUu-bq-cIZE1bHZPCH58gjO7-WR5cFa2JS4DiajduCQLA9tabcxgVqZOf5mP4xBez92Ek_B2t8v0hogtr7T8LuYPhIPwsthgSXY6fy/s320/3_POTS_02_blanc.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-53541198239408046942016-01-13T09:30:00.000+02:002016-01-13T09:30:08.351+02:00Passion in a Cup of Tea <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's the season of warm drinks - mulled wine, hot chocolate and teas being the favourites. </div>
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I am really passionate about tea, black tea! There are at least seven different ones in my kitchen cupboard, Earl Grey, Westminster, Assam, Darjeeling a.o. and I love to use different type of sugar to sweeten each one. Their perfume and flavours are so different, but in winter, there is a special extra which is missing. So I start using the black teas as a base for my WINTER teas.</div>
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One of these which I have created is a mixture of English Westminster with the content of one passion fruit for one liter of water. You will notice that it gives an exotic touch to the tea, makes it milder but also a bit fresher due to its soury taste. This tea has become a hit in our family and with our friends who were lucky enough to taste it. It really tastes great. But what tastes even better is the tranquility which having a cup of tea gives you. It's my favourite me-time: having a cup of good tea and reading a book.</div>
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I dare you to try my recipe. You will love it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho_UoeUQWb06_VNyGTj6ZXmPH6lueqZN1hS6XOk3mYk9hQX-YwGUD3JjyU97yGYHc4aiF0O-ItSSp1L0LxLhyibcMLyVYo1V8jlSCyM9nzfsTWp3BJdz5lrqCzmZ6-x3GJlRRCxxavvD2u/s1600/IMG-20150621-WA0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho_UoeUQWb06_VNyGTj6ZXmPH6lueqZN1hS6XOk3mYk9hQX-YwGUD3JjyU97yGYHc4aiF0O-ItSSp1L0LxLhyibcMLyVYo1V8jlSCyM9nzfsTWp3BJdz5lrqCzmZ6-x3GJlRRCxxavvD2u/s400/IMG-20150621-WA0018.jpg" width="225" /> </a> </div>
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-87634485989312566012016-01-07T09:30:00.000+02:002016-01-07T09:30:22.722+02:00January - Winter Sale - The Month For Investments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Buy a sleigh in summer and a cooler/a fan in winter - but does this theory apply to closet shopping lists as well? For me it works - if you are on the look-out for classical items which are never out of fashion. But it applies also to services, cosmetics and other items. This is now the best month of the year to buy and invest in things, because most of them are on sale after the holidays. Here's a list of some things I recommend you to buy in January.</div>
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<b>Invest in boots.</b></div>
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Yes, January is a good time for winter shoes in general. I am not referring to those one-time-one-season items in pretentious colours but rather to classical leather boots in black or dark brown, with a comfy sole, ideal for wearing every day and for many kilometers of walking. In the last years we've seen that, even if boots come out in fall in the shops, they are not required that much due to higher temperatures. However, when it starts getting cold outside, it's around boxing day or after New Year's Eve. So go out and buy those classic ones - at half the price. And they will last you for many seasons to come.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PNqxvGwj8Oq-6kTr5jyM2RZgJ_uDXSIqHbeherS8PIs-2Ha_njUUmLNQftKfOvUShJ0D0LaxzA-_8G7Ri13pp6LAGKt7RT6wm73mtOndNJKPdE9j-FsSfwcHBpBGCTGdxTqxFyun3_kP/s1600/boots+street+style.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PNqxvGwj8Oq-6kTr5jyM2RZgJ_uDXSIqHbeherS8PIs-2Ha_njUUmLNQftKfOvUShJ0D0LaxzA-_8G7Ri13pp6LAGKt7RT6wm73mtOndNJKPdE9j-FsSfwcHBpBGCTGdxTqxFyun3_kP/s320/boots+street+style.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Cashmere</b> - Invest in softness and cosyness.</div>
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Cashmere is one of the most loved fabrics this season as well as one which keeps you warm and comfy. But it's most of the time too expensive. My advice - buy in January! A beige cardigan or a camel brown or light grey sweater and a more colourful shawl would be nice additions to your wardrobe. You will see that you will easily manage to combine these items of clothing with everything that you already have in your closet and you will look very stylish and classy. Take a look at some pieces <a href="https://www.theoutnet.com/en-RO/Shop/Clothing/Knitwear/Cashmere?sortBy=price-asc" target="_blank">here</a> from The Outnet, one of the most famous fashion outlets online.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirR2YkEsDkebCeir0n26fklR_DL7KiAdQU88lLEolQ7m84HaivgfgsA5zxj1Owggff6zGYIAUgrvSdPWWBSNxPhp_hM8SL5QI7sJrkzAcg4uoQNGgcw0-3pWoSXOT1pS8DbG_lDx_iKVio/s1600/cashmere+basic+colours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirR2YkEsDkebCeir0n26fklR_DL7KiAdQU88lLEolQ7m84HaivgfgsA5zxj1Owggff6zGYIAUgrvSdPWWBSNxPhp_hM8SL5QI7sJrkzAcg4uoQNGgcw0-3pWoSXOT1pS8DbG_lDx_iKVio/s320/cashmere+basic+colours.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Jewelry and Sweets</b> - the gifts from the heart</div>
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If you start planning your Valentine gift in time, this is the perfect timing for the purchase of jewelry or chocolate, as their prices go down after Christmas and are always lower this month than they'll be in February. Just to name two examples, check out the <a href="https://www.swarovski.com/Web_GB/en/20/category/SALE.html" target="_blank">Swarovski</a> and the <a href="http://www.godiva.com/sale" target="_blank">Godiva</a> sale websites online for the markdown.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUUZIdlyXH1RJbqJI3yEJ-jZWxhj5LXU2CY9ey4lP7OpxewKPEpm4eZTyUQM1F7D5WvjTn2oJLqhDSEsh13AimN3VCLaDWDixmX8zTdf-LeJ9jEx6kBXSGNO6Czy2CsCuFaI9AQm8ZMS4R/s1600/chocolatejewelry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUUZIdlyXH1RJbqJI3yEJ-jZWxhj5LXU2CY9ey4lP7OpxewKPEpm4eZTyUQM1F7D5WvjTn2oJLqhDSEsh13AimN3VCLaDWDixmX8zTdf-LeJ9jEx6kBXSGNO6Czy2CsCuFaI9AQm8ZMS4R/s1600/chocolatejewelry.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Cosmetics</b> - investing in your outer beauty</div>
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Indeed, there are a lot of sales at really great cosmetics as well. Many, due to the fact that they have a Christmas packaging. But if you buy them for yourselves, that does not matter at all. I've also seen high end products such as items from YSL, Clinique, Guerlain, Dior etc being sold at lower prices. <a href="http://www.sephora.com/search/saleResults.jsp?keyword=Sale" target="_blank">Sephora</a>, a huge cosmetics retailer, is also advertising its sales products. You can get discounts starting 30-40%, so it's a great deal! Especially for the high end ones!</div>
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<b>Travel</b>. Invest in memories!</div>
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Or should I say, flights? Well, you start having all the early-booking offers if you are looking for tourism packages, but January is a great month for plane tickets as well. I've already bought 3 for myself. European travelers will notice that most of low-cost airlines have European tickets starting 25 Euros (for the return trip, that is)! But major companies such as KLM, Quatar, British Airways etc have now the period when they are posting lowered priced ticket offers for exotic destinations (starting from Europe). So imagine flying with around 500 Euros to the States or to Asia. If you're adventurous, now's the time to grad these offers!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhmloQyUvfdgFo8x9KtZU3NXDqaOvD61QbBSDhaxRPhMWNfgTKjI_P9iYZXWGEKe22TvMEWZA-mYAS6iLJfOqPzejzc9MNKjTpfj72d5WSvByoXfzDNtu9uePY5GStuMDmySAfqZG721Q/s1600/travel+around+the+world.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhmloQyUvfdgFo8x9KtZU3NXDqaOvD61QbBSDhaxRPhMWNfgTKjI_P9iYZXWGEKe22TvMEWZA-mYAS6iLJfOqPzejzc9MNKjTpfj72d5WSvByoXfzDNtu9uePY5GStuMDmySAfqZG721Q/s400/travel+around+the+world.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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As you're planning your newest purchases, I'm wishing you good luck and enjoy your acquisitions! Invest wisely!</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Picture Source <a href="http://files.fleetfeetspokane.com/events/annual-fall-clearance-sale/salesssss.jpg" target="_blank">1</a>, <a href="http://www.shoe-tease.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Street-Style-Toronto-Fashion-Yorkville-Boots-Shoes.jpg" target="_blank">2</a>, <a href="http://www.dante-schals.de/uploads/tx_jfcloudzoom/dante_cashmere_01.jpg" target="_blank">3</a>, <a href="http://www.modernjeweler.com/images/article/1192025348409_js5_2.jpg" target="_blank">4</a>, <a href="http://www.cosmeticsdesign-asia.com/var/plain_site/storage/images/publications/cosmetics/cosmeticsdesign-asia.com/business-financial/singapore-a-small-but-booming-market-for-cosmetics/8381169-1-eng-GB/Singapore-a-small-but-booming-market-for-cosmetics_strict_xxl.jpg" target="_blank">5</a>, <a href="http://www.penguintravel.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Travel-Tourism-1024x655.jpg" target="_blank">6</a> - from top to bottom)</span></div>
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-15626685857783738742015-08-14T09:00:00.000+03:002015-08-14T09:00:02.059+03:00The Istanbul Adventure<br />
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Three years ago I wandered to a new territory, set foot for the first time in Turkey and visited Istanbul with my friends. Last days I was there with my amazing mother, with whom I have already been on so many adventures before and with whom I like to explore the unknown and discover new cultures and territories.</div>
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This adventure is something I am still processing, as it is truly amazing. Take note: this city has not been created for a city break only! Whoever plans to do that in Istanbul, commits a huge mistake. For this city has so much to offer, more than one can imagine, and way more than I have expected, and I am glad I was able to offer it more than one week of my life and get so much more in return...</div>
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However, I couldn't have enjoyed as much as I did, without a proper planning beforehand. The dimensions of the city are huge, but so is the number of interesting place to visit. I will detail more on those on future posts on the blog, so stay tuned!</div>
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Ligos, Byzantium, Constantinopole, Istanbul - it is many cities in one
and yet one city with so many stories to tell. So many people have
passed through, have been its guests, have left a mark on it or were
influenced on their own by this city. The old city center,
Sultanahmet, still breathes these stories of the past. With every
footstep you take, you go where millions have already been before you,
you are overwhelmed by the greatness of the constructions, by the simple
moment you spend at a corner tea house sipping your tasty black Turkish
tea, you are tangled within the streams of people walking each day on
those streets, your blood starts rushing once you step into the Bazaar
and start negotiating, and you are yet surprised by the tranquility
which you find in even central parks, such as the Gulhane park, close to
the Topkapi Palace.</div>
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Then you take a look at the Bosphorus, or even ride
its waves to the next shore, you breathe in the air around you and just
smile: you have made it! You are in one of the greatest cities in
history (and in the world), and you have become part of it, part of its
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Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-18862686816159092272015-07-06T09:30:00.000+03:002015-07-06T11:30:33.090+03:00Time for Meze in ISRAEL<br />
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You barely sit down at the table, and, even before getting the menu, you see some restaurant employees bringing you a big glass of lemonade or chilled water and one of them holds a platter with lots of small bowls which they place on your table.<br />
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These are the Meze, or, starters. It is a word I have heard being used in Greece, Turkey and Cyprus as well (I'm including only my personal travels here) for small bites of a dish. Usually put in the middle of the table, to share. Just a way of making a feast out of every meal. And it's about the spirit of community, of enjoying together, of sharing with your friends, family and all your loved ones.<br />
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But it is also about the pleasure of eating and what better way to discover a community or a culture than through its food. Meze in Israel have a wonderful mix of influences, most of them due to the great location at the Mediterranean but also very Eastern and with Arabic influence. Hoummus is never missing, but you also find a lot of dishes with or made from eggplants, you see salads made of carrots with spring onions but also ones from carrots with fresh coriander leaves (wonderful combination - I used this recipe at home as well).<br />
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Here you can see how a table for two can look like in Israel... and all my cousin and I ordered were the mains (on the plates in front of us). Yes, the mains are rather expensive (and from the countries I've traveled to, Israel was unfortunately one of the more expensive ones when it came to food), but we got all what was put there in front of us, plus tea and desert at the end of what we can call a feast, not a lunch! Oh, and in case we would have been starving, we would have gotten refills on those meze, with no extra charge. In the end, it is so important that with only one lunch/dinner, you can learn so much about the culinary culture of a country and about what locals do when they meet: enjoy live to the fullest!Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-45115046396587017112015-06-29T09:30:00.000+03:002015-06-29T09:30:00.087+03:00zChocolat - One Way Ticket to the South of France<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's the end of June, end even though my body is here, in Bucharest, I can not help to admit that my mind is elsewhere, wandering through the stone pebbled villages of the South of France. </div>
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I can hear the steps I take down the stairs, walking towards the market place. Looking to my right, there is a small local bistro - most of the guests there are known by the owner and, while they are waiting for the food, they exchange some news and gossip. Just in front of the bistro, in an earthy-sandy square, some men are playing a boules game (maybe petanque), cheering or getting angry about it, depending on what team they are on. The yellowish colour of the stone houses reflects the warm sun of the noon and my eyes are drawn to my left, where the colourful market is waiting for me to absorb all the local aromas - the spices, the flowers, the food...</div>
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Once I open my eyes, I am back to reality, back in Bucharest. Fortunately, I have received this week a one way ticket back to the South of France: the new collection from zChocolat, with LOVE from PROVENCE. Once I opened the basswood box I discovered, to my delight, the typical recipes from Provence. The chocolates from the traditional collection, some nutty, some flowery in their aroma, and some just pure chocolate, are accompanied by southern French delicacies such as nougats, calisson d'Aix or the pates de fruits. Reminding me of the boules, the men were using in their game of petanque, are the round, chocolate-coated Provencal hazelnuts. The latter I am tasting now for the first time made by zChocolat. The verdict is simple: I can not get enough of them! I close my eyes and take a bite - the crunchy-ness reminds me of the sturdy construction of the southern villages, and the chocolaty coating, which slowly melts to reveal its wonderful aroma, emphasises the mildness of the sun and how it perfectly covers those buildings. Another bite, and I am back there. Thanks to zChocolat I now have the perfect vacation in a box - the essence of a wonderful region of France, all inside the new collection, inside my Provence Zenith Box.</div>
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---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />You can now order the collection from <a href="http://www.zchocolat.com/shop/en/126-with-love-from-provence" target="_blank">here</a>. The best thing about it - zChocolat orders are shipped anywhere, so you can soon receive your one way ticket to Provence as well! And zChocolat also has a summer packaging, which takes care that all their wonderful chocolates and delicacies arrive in perfect condition anywhere in the world.</div>
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-33114111355252743282015-06-25T09:30:00.000+03:002015-06-25T09:30:00.275+03:00Summer - Fun - Water - Yum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!</div>
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I cannot tell you this often enough! And it's not just me, it's also the health and beauty industry which tries to sell you all kind of products for hydration. But then you know, the most healthy and natural of all methods, is to drink water! </div>
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Did you know that, the moment you feel thirst, you are already dehydrated for several hours? This makes it even more important to have a bottle of water close to you and drink, drink drink! But still or even sparkling water can become dull. So why not take advantage of all the seasonal fruits or other aromatic plants that can make your water taste differently.</div>
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In the first picture, above, I have added some sour cherries, raspberries and basil for a sour yet fresh aroma.</div>
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The second bottle has lime in it. Both of them are made with sparkling water.</div>
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Also adored by my friends was a combination of lime, raspberries and fresh mint. And to add a bit of orient to one bottle, I mixed in 3 spoons of home-made strawberry syrup combined with rose-water. It was a hit! So let the fun in water-aroma-creation begin! And let your beauty shine from within!</div>
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Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-10773358505397574042015-04-29T00:13:00.001+03:002015-04-29T00:13:56.516+03:00zChocolat - A Collection for my Mother<br />
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<i>My momma always said, "Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get." Forrest Gump</i></div>
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As sweet this quote from the famous movie is, as wrong it is about some things. Life gives you someone you know you will have there forever: your mother, and of course, all her love. The unconditional love and support a mother can give you are priceless and are life's biggest treasures. Each day, like from a great box of chocolates, she teaches you new lessons, shows you the way, lets you explore your senses, gives you freedom and still offers you strong roots to thrive on.<br />
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Whenever I open a box of chocolates from zChocolat I close my eyes and let my fingers pick for me - one chocolate of the collection will tell me about my past, another one will remind me of joy, the third will give me new energy to start all over again, the fourth will make me wonder about all the things I still have to learn in life - be it a new combination of tastes or a new episode from my story.<br />
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When I received the Mother's Day zBox 15 from zChocolat, I knew this box was destined for my mother. This seasonal collection offers something new and something traditional, just like what mothers offer their children every day. The packaging is a light pink adorned with a lotus flower, a symbol of love, purity and rebirth. Inside you will find chocolates from their traditional collections, which tastes I have described in previous posts on this <a href="http://www.ingridslifeandluxury.com/2013/11/zchocolat-share-joy.html" target="_blank">blog </a>- absolutely sublime. <br />
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Any mother's life is all about her child from the moment she gives birth (or even before that), so this zBox 15 was a great occasion, since mother's day is approaching fast, to offer my mum time for herself, to indulge. I secretly watched the sparkles in her eyes while she was having a cup of tea and secretly eating the chocolates. She enjoyed every minute of it and that made both of us very happy.<br />
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My mum will probably say: Life is like a box of zChocolates: new yet traditional, indulging, relaxing and very tasty ;) <br />
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You can find the Mother's day collection <a href="http://www.zchocolat.com/shop/en/115-mother-s-day-collection" target="_blank">here</a>. Oh - and one more thing - with the zChocolat boxes of chocolates, you will always know what you are getting, and that is high quality, great taste, craftsmanship, tradition, and last but not least - quick delivery.<br />
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-18536716863147163082015-04-21T09:30:00.000+03:002015-04-21T09:30:00.101+03:00Weekend Travel Light BagSince we are approaching a long weekend, and after a discussion with a
friend about how to pack light, I decided to share my tips with you.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfNWhmrQ57CnkafwC-eTYEUgXqq6fndluZDFqGPZssiagoKSe6FgXzayC4idt9-pBg-RL3kI7zpZVhT-lcWq59xKwfLiIY0yPJdxqgv5u5-NY0JL_JKWW7dz27SmMMsEYWVDKGWdogpEf-/s640/20150328_135956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfNWhmrQ57CnkafwC-eTYEUgXqq6fndluZDFqGPZssiagoKSe6FgXzayC4idt9-pBg-RL3kI7zpZVhT-lcWq59xKwfLiIY0yPJdxqgv5u5-NY0JL_JKWW7dz27SmMMsEYWVDKGWdogpEf-/s640/20150328_135956.jpg" /></a></div>
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Last
few years have taught me how to reduce "stuff" I take with me on
travels and how to stick to what's essential. So here is a list you
could consider:<br />
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- toothpaste<br />
- toothbrush<br />
- hairbrush<br />
- deodorant <br />
- perfume<br />
- make-up<br />
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all of these in small containers. Ignore the shampoo/wash gel,
because you will find these wherever you go, be it a hotel or some
friend's place. Towels as well - no need for those either, as you will
find some at the destination.<br />
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- a big scarf - It can
serve multiple purposes: you can roll it like a pillow for the
plane-/train-ride, cover yourself in it if it gets chillier on a summer
evening, wrap around your throat so you don't catch a cold, or even
cover your head with it if you, for example, visit a Mosque or a church
or take a boat-ride or a city bus-ride on an open double decker.<br />
<br />
-
an extra pair of trousers - I've learned this the hard way one winter
on a trip to Paris, when it was horribly cold outside and I
unfortunately stained the only pair of trousers I had with me, so I had
to wash that stain off and it was not completely dry the next morning.
It was a Sunday so shops were closed, I could not buy a new pair, so I
had to walk in that cold with a part of my leg being exposed to the
freezing cold. Since then I always have an extra pair with me, even if I
travel for only 2 days!<br />
<br />
- a sweatshirt/cosy sweater -
ideal for the flight, for sleeping, for walking -all you want is to
"enjoy the ride" so the word "comfort" should be a guideline for your
packing habits<br />
<br />
- an extra (light) pair of shoes - for example flexible trainers like those from Nike Free collections - in case it rains and your first pair of shoes is drenched or if you have hiking planned - these are perfect<br />
<br />
- Monochrome Tees - easy to match with everything and easily accessorized with the scarf I mentioned before<br />
<br />
- Pay attention to your outerwear - in spring weather changes easily - be sure to have something which is fir for rain and with yet light to carry. 3 in 1 jackets are my personal choice<br />
<br />
- don't forget your sunglasses - in any season - especially if you are traveling by plane; your phone charger and those easy-to-store in-ear headphones for music<br />
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Enjoy the weekend!<br />
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P.S. I'll let you in on a secret - if you want to pack that extra sweater or extra T-shirts/trousers, but the space in your bag is insufficient - use vacuum sealed travel bags in order to reduce the volume to a half. This way you can still travel with only one bag and yet have more choice of clothes on the way. Good luck packing!<br />
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To all out there who want to have a stunning view over London and to have an experience they will not forget so soon, book a time slot to visit Sky Gardens, located on the 35th floor at 20 Fenchurch Street. This 38-storey building is the fifth tallest completed building in the City of London and offers incredible 360 view.</div>
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The visit is free, however, you will need to <a href="https://skygardentickets.com/skygardenpublic_ui/events/" target="_blank">book in advanced</a> as every visitor is offered a time-slot. You will also have to undergo an airport-similar security check at the entrance.<br />
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Opening times are Monday to Friday 10am to 6 pm (last booking slot 4.30 pm) and on weekends 11am until 9pm (last booking slot 7.30pm). I had my visit on a Friday at 10am, it was really nice because it was not crowded so I was able to enjoy the view and take as many pictures as I liked without being interrupted. My mother and I sat down at the end of our tour at the cafe located in the garden-area, and enjoyed cappuccinos over the rooftops of London. From above, the city looked much more tranquil and it was a nice break away from the city's swarm.</div>
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As we entered the lift to get back to ground floor, the sir who was in charge of us arriving down safely was asked by another visitor which would be the best time to visit, from his point of view. He mentioned after sundown, when all the city is lit and you can have another experience than during the day. I saved myself that experience for my next visit to London. However, if you visit London for the first time and you are not very familiar with its geography, I recommend the day-time visit. </div>
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Have fun and enjoy!</div>
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Chanel goes online - WOW!</div>
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Being one of the last luxury and fashion houses to adopt this "trend", or better put, this retail development, Chanel will finally be available for e-commerce. But hold your horses, because the house is taking it one step at a time.<br />
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The first project will be an online store at the famous online luxury retailer Net-a-Porter for a capsule jewelry collection, called Coco Crush, with prices from 2000 to 20000 dollars. A sort of pop-up store starting 15th of April 2015 - meaning today.<br />
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As for the Chanel online-store, Bruno Pavlovsky states that the site might be ready in September 2016, even if rumours indicate it could be up and running already in the first quarter next year. <br />
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I look forward to seeing this (inevitable) change for the house and will remain until then</div>
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...<i>in the mood for Chanel. </i></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (Picture source:http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/k_n/netaporter-vogue-7-9apr15-pr-b_426x639.jpg; Video source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgtOz3ThhXI)</span></div>
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-79408621409775189672015-04-03T12:22:00.000+03:002015-04-03T12:22:13.469+03:00Inspiration for the Easter Table Decoration<br />
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Go floral, sleek, playful. Choose pastels: faded shades of green, baby blue, lavender, light yellow, pink or cream colour. Choose natural elements such as carrots or spring onions. Don't be pompous! In fact, this is a celebration for the family and your dearest ones, so make everything and especially everyone feel comfortable. So why not approach it also with a bit of DIY?! Just let your imagination flow and be creative - there is inspiration in every flower, vegetable or egg next to you ;)</div>
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Happy decorating!</div>
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(Picture sources: <a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/4d/52/ee/4d52eefe439feb18228bea85acb03070.jpg" target="_blank">1</a>, <a href="http://clv.h-cdn.co/assets/15/11/980x653/boxed-wheatgrass.gif" target="_blank">2</a>, <a href="http://www.simplyfreshvintage.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/MyDeisgnChic.jpg" target="_blank">3</a>, <a href="http://static.weddingchicks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/orangetulipsandcarrotarrangement.jpg" target="_blank">4</a>, <a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ac/6e/4c/ac6e4c1beba6c713edf05aa63bec0c6c.jpg" target="_blank">5</a>, <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MIkj1hXudnQ/UUvhzcJ-MUI/AAAAAAAA0-I/kGomgm5KG_g/Easter-Decor_0004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" target="_blank">6</a>, <a href="http://clv.h-cdn.co/assets/15/11/480x720/gallery_1426024721-easter-table-lgn.jpg" target="_blank">7</a>, <a href="http://arquitetura-pessoal.tumblr.com/image/81823845570" target="_blank">8</a>, and <a href="http://diy-decorator.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Easter-bunny-on-napkin.png" target="_blank">9</a>)Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-53392843788298243762015-04-02T15:00:00.001+03:002015-04-02T15:00:38.532+03:00Easter Preparation - Harrods London<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Are you all set for the upcoming Easter? Did you already get in the mood for it?</div>
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If not, it's high time you did! Here's a proposition from my side: go to London's famous Harrods. It's a wonderful experience just to stroll through the department store, especially through its food court. take a friend with you, or a close relative, and enjoy a wonderful after-noon just exploring whatever one can find on the globe brought for you just in one store in London's Knightsbridge.</div>
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For Easter especially you have a whole range of Easter Egg sweets and cute, fluffy rabbits to accompany them, but what I found most hilarious (and a bit disturbing, I must admit) were these duck-face-selfie-white-chocolate-eggs, as I like to call them. So I had to take a selfie with one of them. My mum was most amused by it :) </div>
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Don't forget to visit the flower section - you'll be amazed by the variety (especially of off-season flowers). They will make a great center-piece for your Easter table decoration. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuXZkch9fBa3MmIaKCItI2WyeBgUaA0tReUN7o_Iqq1yvpadl2BnTvY7ezay3zYUCsNCME1MHEWsdlF5N3zM_xmp7o2ifg-3Yc12O6CJheBp7Sn5l9d2N6ZAk2eNSdeKc2bdQYrPs1iVn/s1600/20150221_162303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuXZkch9fBa3MmIaKCItI2WyeBgUaA0tReUN7o_Iqq1yvpadl2BnTvY7ezay3zYUCsNCME1MHEWsdlF5N3zM_xmp7o2ifg-3Yc12O6CJheBp7Sn5l9d2N6ZAk2eNSdeKc2bdQYrPs1iVn/s640/20150221_162303.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1HLTkZEPgLHWoUHa9oMqXzT7NcZPYeZ4FGMKYqFlpuWXKOmGmMVzxChCcdTnnTjNp6Ku1otKmm3Ij4ZGG6DPIXnTXlWXrJZT-tsYag24CfTGcZvqt8dGoNNI4ednnuLgwSVffdv_WPcAy/s1600/IMAG2814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1HLTkZEPgLHWoUHa9oMqXzT7NcZPYeZ4FGMKYqFlpuWXKOmGmMVzxChCcdTnnTjNp6Ku1otKmm3Ij4ZGG6DPIXnTXlWXrJZT-tsYag24CfTGcZvqt8dGoNNI4ednnuLgwSVffdv_WPcAy/s1600/IMAG2814.jpg" height="320" width="191" /></a></div>
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I have been here in mid January after having searched a lot on the Internet for
a true Belgian experience - and I was lucky to find this place!!!<br />
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The
location is in an old bruxelloise house in the center but still a bit
off the touristic path and it looked like the other guests were locals,
which is always a good thing! The staff was extremely friendly and patient
with the 7 of us an catered to all our needs. The service was fast and
always with a smile on the face.<br />
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Everything we ordered was delicious -
for starter I had coquille Saint Jacques in a cheesy rochefort sauce due to which I had to leave my table manners aside - I
had to dip in my baguette because it was yummy! As a main I had eel in a
greene sauce served with frites and as a desert I had the moulleux aux
chocolat, which I hadn't eaten so perfectly done in a long time! !!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTRP2eWNXtaNgSiWyL-3HTvyElkEBuZJPCP9XP4Gb2-I-8rqGRwy0Rv9JQCantz4wfRCy8BPnJ3oAZOEXfkKlh0_Dz0XlL9f5kA_8a4CBijhgQeKWeIaah8WEtZj0xL3sNr4ahjf1W3WM/s1600/IMAG2816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkTRP2eWNXtaNgSiWyL-3HTvyElkEBuZJPCP9XP4Gb2-I-8rqGRwy0Rv9JQCantz4wfRCy8BPnJ3oAZOEXfkKlh0_Dz0XlL9f5kA_8a4CBijhgQeKWeIaah8WEtZj0xL3sNr4ahjf1W3WM/s1600/IMAG2816.jpg" height="320" width="191" /></a></div>
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My friends
enjoyed other dishes such as horse steak done pink medium - very tender
(I tasted every dish at the table ), oysters, mussels with fries and a
sausage dish as well as the yummy desert. Everything was fairly priced
so all in all it was a great experience. I would return there anytime and
will recommend it to anyone!<br />
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Oh...make reservations!
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-65933091049805992932015-02-08T20:42:00.002+02:002015-02-08T20:42:42.720+02:00Unlock Your Heart - Share a Moment - Taste the Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGEe3MQv0vTkvMkVwd7-CMxieGLdIfUCptCbyGKdJ3v30uNkZUjm-iXPlK6YpmADW0weL4Lu9WPgib-I6GKKcth8J1cUaXEFe1MA37LesTa2pBVfKMBmOC4syh4nnWIS-7rXMcj0AcfIPX/s1600/cioco1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGEe3MQv0vTkvMkVwd7-CMxieGLdIfUCptCbyGKdJ3v30uNkZUjm-iXPlK6YpmADW0weL4Lu9WPgib-I6GKKcth8J1cUaXEFe1MA37LesTa2pBVfKMBmOC4syh4nnWIS-7rXMcj0AcfIPX/s1600/cioco1.jpg" height="275" width="320" /></a></div>
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There's an old saying, stating that the way to unlocking someone's heart is through their stomach. It mainly referred to a man's heart and was directed at women who were supposed to cook their way through a man's affection.<br />
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Even if times have changed and both women and men know that their partner or partner to be will appreciate other qualities and will fall in love with so much more than just cooking, taste has a magical way of connecting memories and of generating the perfect decor for a moment which you will never forget.<br />
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It is true, just close your eyes and taste your mother's cooking and you will be teleported into your childhood, take a bite of an exotic fruit and you will have summer all around you. Sweet, bitter, fresh, floral, nutty - every flavour brings back so much of what is locked in your heart, of who you are.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Zg9sfWuBksLGhAfs4jeEZ3hU-kUl8yiwEOeVxDwY5W1A9wTsux1Vc24hpxUkk6eM1tRdd9EoSQkXV5txWvB6MBSl4-388yE-K5x3mxYx3BysQWEh0hgUt9onMQ-YiZBuzh7ycdOZvyp8/s1600/cioco2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Zg9sfWuBksLGhAfs4jeEZ3hU-kUl8yiwEOeVxDwY5W1A9wTsux1Vc24hpxUkk6eM1tRdd9EoSQkXV5txWvB6MBSl4-388yE-K5x3mxYx3BysQWEh0hgUt9onMQ-YiZBuzh7ycdOZvyp8/s1600/cioco2.jpg" height="281" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is why zChocolat's proposition for this year's Valentine's day is more than perfect: unlocking your darling's heart with a selection of wonderful chocolates, because there is no taste that talks more about love than chocolate.<br />
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I received the wonderful Valentine's Day Ruby which arrived in an elegant mahogany box with a key on the outer lid - what better invitation than this to open and discover what is hidden inside - and I'll let you in on the secret: just like opposites attract, so is this box created: on the one hand you have the 12 "romantic" heart-shaped chocolates, on the other hand you have the traditional assortment. The heart-shaped assortment also mixes dark ganache with white chocolate, soft milk chocolate with hazelnut, vanilla caramel with a dark exterior and a bergamote-infused ganache in a red cover - different but perfect together. You can also enjoy 15 of the traditional assortment with 3 of the famous z-chocolates: crunchy with sweet and salty, another contrasting yet sexy taste combination which will surely melt your heart.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKknWDW2g2ixbFBtJUWcDNyIwGk5LPthPkltJhJv3wmmN9CYONPzXdhdicyeMaX2DcUQOeqaRFLF6pZGsVCLu2ncOD1KVUaW-RMESg-yWGjwUj_8KNiSe-YaHnVmg3duElm1LL9Kt5jEA/s1600/cioco3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKknWDW2g2ixbFBtJUWcDNyIwGk5LPthPkltJhJv3wmmN9CYONPzXdhdicyeMaX2DcUQOeqaRFLF6pZGsVCLu2ncOD1KVUaW-RMESg-yWGjwUj_8KNiSe-YaHnVmg3duElm1LL9Kt5jEA/s1600/cioco3.jpg" height="279" width="320" /></a></div>
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You see, what I'm trying to tell you is that you will create a wonderful moment for your loved one, be it partner or a family member you want to show your appreciation for, if you choose to share such a box with them, because not only will you be sharing time and a moment you will not forget, but you will also share an unforgettable moment together, and it will unlock their heart. Not only because these are tasty chocolates,...but because you thought of sharing with them the best there is.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQF43p02R-CAR1zKrIkQmuoAe4KSXZ77fSma1FAiVLlNlgUQMQKJk7B0SeBpWyfegIzfHkMT0dnv_K39usvnSsSuoAmWBF74KppQusDQXguGUiN-8Ab_LuR0EXJ3ChzdBvIWWJafY6We8/s1600/cioco4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQF43p02R-CAR1zKrIkQmuoAe4KSXZ77fSma1FAiVLlNlgUQMQKJk7B0SeBpWyfegIzfHkMT0dnv_K39usvnSsSuoAmWBF74KppQusDQXguGUiN-8Ab_LuR0EXJ3ChzdBvIWWJafY6We8/s1600/cioco4.jpg" height="267" width="320" /></a></div>
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-24091738930388179062015-01-08T09:30:00.000+02:002015-01-08T09:30:00.658+02:00Being of Age - The New It Thing Being young and fabulous is a wonderful state, but it passes really quickly, even before you can realize it. So it's when you notice, that products are marketed at people below your age group, you are 10 years away from college or discussions around you involve changing diapers, that you are indeed getting old...oldER...of age...oh,..whatever you fancy calling it, it's still the same thing.<br />
It's the natural course of life, some come, others go, planet earth still turns and life is not spareing any one of us.<br />
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It might look like a sad outcome, but taking into consideration how many medical discoveries we have nowadays which help us have a better life at age, and how beautiful it is to age decently, remaining young at heart and free spirited, having more time to discover the world or to enjoy yourself and the world around you more, I guess we should see it as an opportunity.<br />
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Just like two fashion houses thought of taking the opportunity and capturing real beauty in their campaigns.<br />
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Dolce & Gabbana in their 2015 ad video features elderly women:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichOyQmFbtPNhN-5hsDvxAh-L-r06JVs6Ynhm-0RtQW0nm-9NNx5m4gBYxRS5xKqBLLaDq9WrKdCLb3KVzWm7Hb4xC-KEU-Ia5A4naF96zNQkYH5784J7sPfainGnarqiUzuoSUcQWeiRq/s1600/dolce+old.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichOyQmFbtPNhN-5hsDvxAh-L-r06JVs6Ynhm-0RtQW0nm-9NNx5m4gBYxRS5xKqBLLaDq9WrKdCLb3KVzWm7Hb4xC-KEU-Ia5A4naF96zNQkYH5784J7sPfainGnarqiUzuoSUcQWeiRq/s1600/dolce+old.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Picture source: https://s.yimg.com/ea/img/-/141229/dolce_grandmas_1aa0ulv-1aa0um6.jpg)</span></div>
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Or take a look at Celine's new ad with Joan Didion, 80-year-old American writer and fashion-inspiration to many:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcc3fhhCqcHxnWwpjnMuIcXvAaE-aXRz3X0SC16em6lTdPlNTOzJKQlUxVXiyLDFh1T67LJd9iOgAKScwCbkjcvQxLXY8KhyphenhyphenjrVDcU4v-M2w7yrN9F-vgpyhoHsMNc-uxcvnnuy6GcR6VM/s1600/celine+joan+didion.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcc3fhhCqcHxnWwpjnMuIcXvAaE-aXRz3X0SC16em6lTdPlNTOzJKQlUxVXiyLDFh1T67LJd9iOgAKScwCbkjcvQxLXY8KhyphenhyphenjrVDcU4v-M2w7yrN9F-vgpyhoHsMNc-uxcvnnuy6GcR6VM/s1600/celine+joan+didion.jpeg" height="320" width="208" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Picture source: http://www.theguardian.com/books/fashion-blog/2015/jan/06/joan-didion-celine-spring-2015#img-1)</span></div>
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So let's stop wining and try to make the best of life's every age and situation and one thing to remember is: age does not stop us, our mind does. We should never stop or settle, we should never give in. We are beautiful and powerful at any age, only if we are happy with ourselves. So be happy!<br />
<br />Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-31893239930050225852015-01-06T09:30:00.000+02:002015-01-06T09:30:01.168+02:00Marsala - the Pantone Colour of 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC7oMkQIvNo5w35zP66WjIbge_U5mAcURXSQowmMCrsxQDouru3dDYPmQcT2qNbR3sBinqthwiVcVQUgk4-Qv45NKqg-fV0yytjOpLpC-hBpDb7Bct6hSEqZz_qVyFBCmeTs6QexBqrFna/s1600/marsala1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC7oMkQIvNo5w35zP66WjIbge_U5mAcURXSQowmMCrsxQDouru3dDYPmQcT2qNbR3sBinqthwiVcVQUgk4-Qv45NKqg-fV0yytjOpLpC-hBpDb7Bct6hSEqZz_qVyFBCmeTs6QexBqrFna/s1600/marsala1.jpeg" height="192" width="320" /></a></div>
I admit it - one of the first things I do at the beginning of a year is Google-ing the Colour-Institute's choice of new colour for that year - and 2015 is a powerful one: Marsala! Shade of dark Bordeaux red, this colour reminds me of the ripe pomegranate fruit, of sexy dresses and fleshy lips...<br />
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It tells me: confidence, boldness, royal, sophisticated, love, warmth, earthy, raw, wine, natural, serenity. So it's about feeling good in your own flesh and loving each minute of life, of being close to nature and your true self.<br />
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Take a look at the selection of pictures I've gathered:</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Picture source for the 3 above: http://thenextweb.com/creativity/2014/12/25/15-images-inspired-pantones-2015-color-year-marsala/)</span></div>
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Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-2565085735767924242014-12-15T13:19:00.001+02:002014-12-15T13:19:34.126+02:00Christkindlmarkt - Nürnberg's Christmas Market<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've heard oh so many times that the best Christmas Market to visit is the one in Nürnberg.<br />
Since my family lives there (and I have done it too for a period of time during my childhood), I have visited the city on various occasions, but unfortunately never during pre-Christmas time.<br />
So it was high time I did that this year, and on the eve of the opening of the market, I arrived in Nürnberg.<br />
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The old city market is filled with little stands, so take a lot of time with you (and also money, because there is a lot of variety to spend it on). Wherever there is a "traffic jam" between the stands, you will know that you have reached the next "pit stop" for mulled wine. Walk up to the stage in front of the church to check the daily events and then walk around the colourful stands who have so much to offer - handmade toys, clothes, furniture, specific Christmas decoration, candy, gingerbread, jewelry - there is even a Playmobil stand there. If you walk from this main location with stands you will discover also the international stands, with products from all over the world. I even discovered a Romanian one with oh so jolly people in front of it - they were tasting our national Schnaps and forgetting about the cold while warming their hearts...<br />
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Another walk away from the main market takes you to the "Kinderweihnacht", a smaller version of the Christmas market, but dedicated to children. Your little ones can start being creative there: from decorating their own ginger bread to creating Christmas tree decorations or colouring their own holiday candles... it's a beautiful site to see all these children actively doing something for their loved ones and being so proud of their achievements. All in all, that's the best gift one can give you: offering you time and attention. And that is what children can do at the Kinderweihnacht while having a lot of fun.<br />
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If you find yourself wandering through Nürnberg's old city, don't miss out on the occasion to go to the most famous Christmas Market and to check the following activities:<br />
- drink mulled wine (Glühwein) or Feuerzangenbowle, another, typical warm alcoholic drink. Wherever you see many people, there's the stand you are looking for<br />
- eat the local Wurst, the small Nürnberger - served 3 in a bun (3 im Weckla)<br />
- eat the original Nürnberger gingerbread, the Elisen-Lebkuchen - they are a bit pricey but something you must check off your list because the most famous recipe for "Lebkuchen" comes from this city<br />
- grab or make a souvenir for a loved one who, unfortunately, could not join you <br />
- make a lot of pictures<br />
- have fun! - because, if you can't feel Christmas then and there, I don't know where you will!!!<br />
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Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-31674322277348357682014-12-08T09:30:00.000+02:002014-12-08T09:30:00.383+02:00zChocolat - Taste of Memories and Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of the perfect gifts for me would be to freeze time...and then be transported to another dimension - be it a memory from the past which I enjoy a great deal, or another time I have not met. Just like when you take a bite from your grandmother's cooking and you are directly teleported to your childhood - just like that!<br />
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So here I am - Sunday afternoon, winter outside, I am tucked in a warm blanket in bed, my favourite tea waiting for me on my bedside table and in front of me - the new Holiday Sapphire box from zChocolat.<br />
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This warm-toned polished box adorned by a golden inlaid pine-tree pattern atop the lid contains a traditional assortment of zChocolat's most popular recipes (see <a href="http://www.zchocolat.com/default.asp?target=html#/zchocolat/zchocolates/the_assortments/assortmentcombo" target="_blank">here</a>), but because I had already had the pleasure to taste those chocolates (read on my blog <a href="http://www.ingridslifeandluxury.com/2013/11/zchocolat-share-joy.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.ingridslifeandluxury.com/2013/07/zchocolat-pleasure-of-receiving.html" target="_blank">here</a>) and because with zChocolat you can customize your boxes in every way that you like, I received mine filled with Orangettes, a typical Christmas delicay.<br />
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I pick one up, bite it through the middle, close my eyes and enjoy the bitterness combined with sweetness: orange peels covered in 70% dark chocolate - what a bliss! Suddenly, I am being transported to the South of France, around a Christmas market and many more aromas tickle my nose and palate. This is due to the fact that, when I open my eyes, my hands have already gone in search for 3 more boxes which I took with me in bed (don't tell my mother ;) ). These 3 boxes are filled with assortments new to zChocolat - and they do not contain chocolate.<br />
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Let me introduce to you pates de fruits, nougats and calisson d'aix assortments!<br />
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The Pates de Fruits Assortment contains fruit jellies, just like I remember them from my childhood. But these are not made from the fruits from the area I grew up with, but with the essence of the ripest fruits (cherry, lemon, apple, orange, strawberry, raspberry and apricots) from Provence. Only one jelly is enough and you can smell and see the orchards or the fields in front of your eyes. Only one piece is sufficient to satisfy your desire and hunger for sweetness...but I wonder - could you stop at just one? Because I wanted to taste each and every one of them, I wanted to have the complete experience of the fruits in Provence...<br />
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The Nougats Assortment is another wonderful taste-of-Provence-experience. The 15 small pieces should not be underestimated - their taste is amazing. The assortment is prepared with whole crisp Provence almonds (the nougat pieces are filled with them!!!) which have been cooked in local lavender honey using ancestral traditions. Believe me - it doesn't just sound like a dream - it tastes like one!<br />
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Keeping it on an almondy note - I present to you the Calissons d'Aix Assortment. This Aix-en-Provence specialty is made from an almond paste (Germans call it Marzipan), orange zest and candied cantaloupe, with a sugar-icing top coat - a bit of this and I am reminded of my time spent in the South of France, of the old and picturesque villages I loved to spend my weekends exploring and of the colourful Sunday markets there.<br />
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Having all these delicacies to eat in front of me, sitting so comfortable as I am at the moment and drinking my favourite tea, I couldn't be more happier. It's like I've become child again and there is nothing in this world which can steal my happiness. Even without chocolate, zChocolat has again done a wonderful job of offering the best taste with the best ingredients. And if you might doubt what I am saying, I urge you to try them for yourself. Who knows what dimension you will travel to...Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3469816510513592114.post-15520851985255564042014-11-25T09:30:00.000+02:002014-11-25T09:30:02.099+02:00Stuttgart's Christmas Market<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With the holiday season approaching, I am honestly looking forward to the warming Christmas Markets. This year I am off to see the world's nr. 1 Christmas Market in Germany, the one in Nuernberg. Or, at least, THEY say it's the best. I will get back to you with my personal feedback about it.<br />
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Last year, I was in Stuttgart...and, to remind me of it, I NOW found the text I had written then, so here it is for you as well:<br />
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<i>Every now and then I have the
occasion,through my work, to travel to the southern part of Germany,
to Baden-Wuerttemberg, to be more specific. I always stay at the same
hotel, in a small city next to Stuttgart, and most of the times,
after work, I find myself walking through the city center of
Baden-Wuerttemberg's capital.</i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>This time I was here with 3 of my dear
colleagues, and, although it was freezing cold, we enjoyed some walks
and the first mulled wine of this season.
</i></div>
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</i><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>The Schlossplatz has a skating rink
open, with music and oh so many jolly people around. And next to that
rink we found the first little houses who served the traditional
“Wurst”, the sweets such as glazed apples, strawberries wrapped
in dark or white chocolate or heart-shaped ginger bread with
different messages on them. And of course..the huts selling mulled
wine. All the aromas of Christmas past and Christmas to come. It's
funny how THESE little things let your eyes shine and fill your
hearts with joy. And they did mine!</i></div>
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</i><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>It was a perfect way of starting to get
into that spirit of happiness, of thankfulness. A way to start
thinking about all the good things in life, all the big and small
things we are so grateful for. And more important, of all the people.</i></div>
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<i>The small huts were just the
“beginning” of what was to turn into a bigger Christmas market in
the center of Stuttgart. The Schlossplatz, Rathausplatz, the square
next to the old castle and the little streets towards the old market
have been now filled with these small houses which are just
beautifully transmitting the Christmas spirit while letting you slow
down your tempo from the crazy Christmas shopping stress, letting you
find yourself and your inner peace.</i></div>
<i>
</i><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i>If you have the chance to visit
Stuttgart this season, don't miss out on the Christmas market! You
won't regret it!</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Picture source: http://www.germany-christmas-market.org.uk/_marketpix/stuttgart_christmas_market_4.jpg)</span> </i></div>
Ingehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13705881725222832077noreply@blogger.com0