by ivis | Jul 24, 2020 | Lifestyle
I hope all my friends and family are paying close attention to all of these “what I would buy if I won the lottery” blog posts because this is basically a wishlist for me at this point – everything I write about every single Friday I would really appreciate as gifts. This one, I think is my favourite experience yet, imagine being able to combine the love of fine dining as well as the love of travelling all in one on a vacation! Food as everyone knows it is a universal language, the cure to everything in life, well my life anyway. When I’m happy, I eat. When I’m sad, I eat. When I’m celebrating, I eat. No matter what mood I am in I am always in the mood for food, especially if I’m travelling. Eating local foods is one of the best ways to submerse yourself in another culture, especially if you try traditional foods as you can also educate yourself on the dishes and why they eat them – for example in most restaurants in zimbabwe they serve sadza/ pap and that is our staple food. Therefore we can all establish that food in a sense is an expression of cultural identity. So imagine how incredible a journey around the globe for the best food the world has to offer; with stops at six of the ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants.’ Traverse six continents, dining at the best restaurant on each, and encounter the true diversity of global fine dining would be. A ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE.
The restaurants;
1st – El Celler de Can Roca
4th – Central
8th – Narisawa
32nd – Attica
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65536914/An_Imperfect_History_of_Ripponlea.0.jpg)
48th – The Test Kitchen
50th – The French Laundry
You would spend 4 days in each city, with a personalised itinerary from your TRULY Concierge. In Cape Town, discover theatrical Nouvelle-Latin cuisine at The Test Kitchen. Your next stop will be an exploration of Peruvian culture at Central in the magnificent city of Lima. From here you will savour refined French fare in California’s Wine Country at Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry in San Francisco. Dive into the bounty of the nature of Japan at Tokyo’s Narisawa. Finally, polish off a whirlwind experience feasting on native Australian fare at perhaps the world’s most extravagant dining experience, Melbourne’s Attica.
From London to Girona, Cape Town, Lima, San Francisco, Tokyo and Melbourne. This is what you call an EXPERIENCE.
Book the experience;
https://trulyexperiences.com/uk/dine-around-the-world-for-two.html
by ivis | Jul 20, 2020 | Travel
Oslo, the capital of Norway, known for its green spaces and museums according to my research, Oslo is the number one most expensive country to travel to – tourist industries that charge about 20% more than anywhere else in Western Europe and a whopping 70% higher than world averages. Norway is notoriously known as Scandinavia’s—and Northern Europe’s—most expensive country. Originally I thought Switzerland was expensive but compared to Norway, it’s nothing! I always used to see these rows of colourful houses but I never actually knew where it was until today – Oslo is a scenic city filled with Scandinavian charm and hints of the Norwegians’ Viking history. Oslo tends to be clean and safe, and most of the population speaks almost fluent English, which can make it easy for you to get around.
Plan your visit;
https://www.visitnorway.com/places-to-go/eastern-norway/oslo/
by ivis | Jul 17, 2020 | Interview
Do you guys remember those perfume sciency kits that Argos used to sell back in the day? For a good 3 years I begged my entire family for one very Christmas and birthday, but did I ever get it? NO, because for some reason they thought A; I’d never use and B; I ‘d mess up the house. So I think you can all imagine how excited I was when I found out that I can, in fact, make my perfume as an adult, FINALLY.
I have always wanted my own unique scent, that way when people smell an item of mine they can recognise that it’s Ivis’ or when I walk past/ into a room people can know it’s me. Imagine just having your one smell, that’s unique to you, that when people smell it, it reminds them of you and only you! Since I started getting buying perfume in high school, the goal for me has always been to discover my own scent and I still haven’t yet found mine, so clearly when I found this it was a sign from God telling me that my expensive ass needs to make my very own fragrance.
Floris London is the world’s oldest perfumery, founded by Juan Floris in 1730 and provides you with the unique opportunity to create a completely bespoke fragrance over the period of three consultations with an experienced Floris perfumer in the secluded privacy of their perfumery. Tell me this doesn’t sound amazing? I dare you to tell me you don’t want this experience? With hundreds of years of knowledge and expertise have been passed through the company, with his descendants – now in the 8th and 9th generation – still running the shop you’re bound to find the perfect scent for you! And to top of the experience, your name will be forever recorded next to famous Floris clients, and your fragrance formula recorded for future re-orders
What is included?
- Create your own signature fragrance from scratch with royal perfumers Floris
- Design your scent over a minimum of three private consultations with the Floris perfumer
- Enjoy a glass of champagne at each two-hour consultation
- Take home 100ml of your Bespoke Eau de Parfum, with Certificate of Provenance
- You will have five repeat orders of your bespoke perfume
Book the experience;
https://trulyexperiences.com/uk/london-bespoke-perfume-gift-floris.html
by ivis | Jul 15, 2020 | Fashion
Cropped jackets have been around since winter of 2017 and I don’t think they’re going anytime soon, they’re the perfect layering item and my favourite type of jacket to wear. For one, they keep you somewhat warm but at the same time you can still show off your outfit! A cropped jacket is the perfect outerwear piece to have during the summer, in all honesty, it should be one of your wardrobe staples.
The evolution of the cropped jackets over the last 3 years is one of my favourites – we’ve seen it go from being just cropped denim jackets to now cropped blazers (which I am LIVING FOR), cropped tweed jackets and cropped leather too! The item has been given a much-needed touch of elegance and we really love to see it.
Shortened to hit right at the waistline, this cut is seriously flattering too and here are my faves atm;
PLT
ASOS
FARFETCH
NET- A- PORTER
by ivis | Jul 14, 2020 | Beauty
Ever since I started buying makeup at 14, I’ve always asked myself, do I really need a primer? I suffer a lot from oily skin so makeup literally does not last as much as I’d hope to on my face but every time I go to buy a primer I never know where to start because there’s so many, if not too many options available; there’s hydrating, brightening, mattifying, blurring, luminising, and more — so which one do I pick??? Then I’ve seen people use different types of primers for different areas of their face, then do you guys remember that time people were using men’s Nivea shaving balm as primer?? Makeup is actually so confusing sometimes because what works for other people may not work for you, and it’s one of those situations where you actually have to test it out yourself until you actually find what works for you.
Some people love primer, some people hate it and I still don’t know if it’s actually a necessity in my makeup draw or if just haven’t found the perfect one for me.
What exactly is primer and what does it do?
Primer is one of those words that literally explains itself, it is exactly what its name implies: It’s a prep product that’s applied after your skincare to create an almost clear canvas to hold onto whatever makeup you want to apply — from foundation to tinted moisturizer or even just concealer, primer will supposedly make sure nothing moves an inch whilst also blurring your pores, helping to fade fine lines and smoothening skin! Your primer might come in the form of a hyaluronic acid-spiked facial serum that boosts hydration, a sunscreen that protects and softens the appearance of pores, or a traditional silicone-based primer that smooths and blurs.
What’s the best way to apply them?
Primers are ALWAYS applied after your last skin-care step and before your makeup. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT. Many makeup artists recommend that you apply the product with your fingers to apply primer, as they say, it’s the best and easiest way to blend everything and get a seamless finish. It’s also advised that you wait a full minute for it to dry before layering anything on top in order to avoid disturbing the makeup. A little goes a long way with primer, and too much can ruin your makeup look before you even get to create it.
Dry: Dry skin benefits from moisturizing primers with added glycerine, aloe, or shea butter. Look for words like nourishing and replenishing.
Normal: If your skin isn’t particularly dry or oily, choose a photo finish primer or a blurring primer made with silicone that minimizes pores and leaves a fresh, dewy finish.
Oily: If your skin is oily, look for primers that advertise shine reduction or mattifying to help keep shiny skin under control.
What are the most common primer mistakes?
- Applying too much
- Applying makeup straight after, rather than allowing for the primer to dry first
- Choosing one completely wrong for your skin type
- Picking a primer that does not go well with the formula of your foundation
- Layering primers
So do I really need primer?
Whether or not you feel using a primer is necessary, it’s completely up to you and whether or not you’re happy with your current makeup routine. But it wouldn’t hurt to try it out and see if it actually makes an improvement or adds some sort of value to your life – you may find that primers don’t make a marked improvement in your face makeup, and in that case, skip the step. However, it could also mean you haven’t found the one. Whatever you do, before choosing a primer do your research, get recommendations, and try different formulas in store.
The bottom line: If you’re wondering whether or not you need a primer in your life, just ask yourself how happy you are with the overall look, feel, and finish of your face makeup. If there’s something off or missing — maybe you want to add more overall glow or trim shine from your T-zone — a primer could be precisely what you need.
by ivis | Jul 10, 2020 | Lifestyle
Sky diving has been on my bucket list from the age of 13. It’s been a whole 6 years and I still haven’t been skydiving so in the spirit of my love for luxury and my love for travel, I thought to myself, If I am going to go sky diving – why the hell would I ever do it in the U.K. when I can do it in Dubai??? Everyone around me thinks I’m completely insane for wanting to do so but I am such a carpe diem kind of person. I am such a cliche in the respect that you only get one life so I am going to live it doing silly shit like this. Think about it this way, if I die (GOD FORBID), at least I died having fun. Am I right or am I right?
This sounds so weird but does anyone else feel like adrenaline is good for them? I feel like in order for me to keep motivated and to keep my life going I need a bit of adrenaline every once in a while. For me adrenaline is like working out, initially, it might not actually want to do it bit, in the end, I feel so much better. You’re probably all thinking why Dubai of all places, that’s so random! And yes, it’s so random because the scenery isn’t even all of that compared to other countries I could do it in, however, I’m thinking about all the adrenaline I’ll have after to go and splurge at Dubai mall and give myself the most perfect, rarest, one of a kind well-done gift from me to me – preferably a designer bag. However I’m not completely materialistic, another reason I would choose Dubai specifically is because Skydive Dubai has an excellent reputation for safety and expertise, and is one of the leading skydiving companies in the world. They also hold several Guiness World Records and have developed 2 amazing skydiving locations in Dubai. Therefore I know for a fact I’m coming back in one piece.
Here are a few things that may help you out, if you ever want to try it too;
Rules & Restrictions
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- Please carry your valid photo id proofs Emirates ID, driver’s license, an ID card with photo, passport.
- Weight and BMI (Body Mass Index) with clothing and sports shoes must not exceed the maximum safety requirements.
- BMI and weight requirements are as follows:
- Women – 90 kgs (198 lbs) or less. Maximum BMI of 27.5.
- Men – 100 kgs (220.5 lbs) or less. Maximum BMI 30.
Tips For Your First Time Skydiving Experience
- Eat a moderate and healthy breakfast before you head out for your experience. Just know that skydiving with an empty or full stomach is not fun. Just keep it light and make sure you’re nourished well before your dive.
- Get a good sleep the night before. Though it is normal for the excitement of the jump to keep you up all night, try and ensure that do you manage to get some good hours of sleep.
- Wear the right clothes – athletic and comfortable clothes, sneakers/sport shoes. Sandals, high heels and shirts with collars won’t be allowed.
- Be prepared to wait. Skydiving is an extremely weather dependant sport. The SkyDive Dubai officials keep a constant check on the weather monitor to keep track of the winds. If the wind picks up or the weather deteriorates, be prepared to wait. If the conditions are not suitable, your experience may take a little longer.
- If you’re a female and would want a female tandem instructor, then kindly request the same at the campus.
- Relax, breathe, jump and enjoy! Statistically, skydiving is safer than being on the road according to the United States Parachuting Association.
When is the best time to skydive in Dubai?
Summer in the desert can be hot, so to avoid the heat, the best time for skydiving is during the winter, from October to April.
by ivis | Jul 8, 2020 | Fashion
I honestly feel like every blog post I start I always somehow manage to refer back to my childhood but that’s only because my mother made sure that I was a fashionista from birth! PERIOD. Like I remember I used to have a collection of sunglasses and I kid you not I had every single colour of the freaking rainbow because I loved matching my sunglasses to my outfits. I don’t know why I thought that was even appropriate at the time but back then, I really thought I was onto something but now, of course, I know better. A lot better for that matter.
Like clothing and shoes, sunglasses have trends too and this year 70s inspired frames are dominating the scene – I’m talking the return of oversize frames of all shapes, from round to square, yellow tints and of the map – tiny sunglasses. That’s the vibe for our 2020 summer, however, who really follows trends when it comes to sunglasses, no one! The key to finding the perfect sunglasses for you, of course, depends on your style but most importantly your face shape. NOT EVERY PAIR OF SUNGLASSES is for you so please try them on before buying.
Here are my top 15 atm;
LINDA FARROW DARE C2 OVERSIZED SUNGLASSES
FF Havana acetate and metal sunglasses
Celine Square acetate sunglasses
Miu Miu Oversized cat-eye tortoiseshell acetate sunglasses
COURREGES Blue square-frame sunglasses
Miu Miu Eyeweargeometric gradient sunglasses
Jacquemus Yauco tortoiseshell-effect sunglasses
Loewe Rectangular acetate sunglasses
Celine Cat-eye acetate sunglasses
Chanel Round Silver frame. Light blue lenses.
Dior 30MONTAIGNE Black Square Sunglasses
SAINT LAURENT Betty oversized square-frame acetate sunglasses
Quay HONEY
Quay VINYL
LE ROND – D’Or
by ivis | Jul 7, 2020 | Beauty
For some weird reason, I have been obsessed with the bags under my eyes since I was like 12, bearing in mind at that age I DIDNT EVEN HAVE ANY WHATSOEVER but I had convinced myself I did. I was such a weird child. Small things like this will forever be the reason that I scream I was ahead my time hahaha. Before I discovered that makeup was actually the key to evening my skin out, and before I released that my skin will never actually be fully even I was constantly trying to find ways to make the skin under my eyes look brighter, I’d do the cucumber thing on my eyes, the lemon wedge thing and even put ice on my eyes to the point my mum got so annoyed with me that she literally banned me from doing it loool. I am telling you, I have always been destined to be a beauty/ fashion blogger – as in, I was doing this whilst my age mates were still playing with their Nintendos like normal children.
If you do not have an eye cream in your skincare routine then I hate to break it to you, but you’re doing life all wrong! I kid you not, eye cream has literally changed my life and I am not even exaggerating. What most people don’t understand is the fact that eye creams are completely different from face moisturisers – hence the difference in names. Eye creams are formulated specifically for the delicate eye area and it’s so important to use one to your keep skin hydrated and plump as well as brightening your eye are and to keep you looking awake. That’s why it’s so important to invest in one, no matter how old you are, it’s never too early to start using anti-ageing techniques for your skin. Most people say the earlier the better because the best results come from prevention! However, please DO NOT forget to use suncream too!! If you suffer from puffy eyelids, dark circles and sagging skin. These problems will only become worse if you go out without protection. The sun damages the skin in so many ways from dark marks to hyperpigmentation to fine lines etc, you won’t see any results if you’re not going that extra mile and applying spf too. Trust me, I learned this the hard way.
So why do you need an eye cream?
The skin around your eyes is ten times thinner than your face meaning it is much more delicate and can crease as well as dry out a lot more quickly.
Your eye-area skin doesn’t have as much natural moisture from sebum (oil). Your eye area doesn’t have enough of it, so it’s up to you to provide that moisture.
The eye is usually the first place to show signs of ageing. As we get older, skin, in general, starts weakening in structure. It loses elasticity (the quality that makes youthful skin “bouncy”) and collagen begins to slowly break down, which causes sagging and wrinkles. Not only does this come naturally with age, but both internal and external factors like hormones, weather/climate, pollution, smoking, poor diet and sun damage expedite these changes. All of these changes show on your eyes first.
Your eye area is in constant motion and endures a lot of strain every day. Think about how often your eyes move throughout the day. You blink around 10,000 times each day, and when you smile, frown, cry or squint the skin around eyes get “tugged” around. Let’s not forget all the times you rub your eyes, put on and remove makeup and insert contact lenses. Compare that to, say, your forehead, which pretty much gets left alone all day as long as you’re not touching them. All these movements contribute to the development of the dreaded crow’s feet around the eyes.
My fave eye creams;
by ivis | Jul 6, 2020 | Travel
I have been trying to think of a new travel series for you guys for so long now and then it just clicked – I haven’t done anything to do with luxury travel in what feels like YEARS so I thought that over the next 10 weeks or so I would provide you with the most expensive travel destinations the world has to offer. By now you should all know that I am a dreamer so this is series should not be a surprise to anyone. I think it’d be so cool for me to look back at series like this in 10 years time and do updates on the places that I used to blog about once I actually go there, so in a way, I am sort of manifesting it by writing about it. If that makes sense!
So our first stop on this series is Musha Cay. Until now I had literally never heard of this place and then I found out that it’s actually a privately island in the Exuma chain in the southern Bahamas owned by illusionist David Copperfield. The island made it in the most expensive destinations, for this reason, rates start at $42,000 a day for up to 12 persons with a 5-night minimum. Imagine staying an entire week you have spent $294,000 and then 10 days you’d spend $420,00. Do you know how insane that is???? One vacation. That money can buy you a good size 5 bedroom family home somewhere in Yorkshire! Within that price, you get all meals and beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, including fine wines and champagnes) and unlimited use of all island amenities including a state-of-the-art gym, tennis court, volleyball, swimming pool, and billiards. A night at Dave’s Drive-in is also included, HOWEVER transportation to and from Musha Cay, international telephone calls, massage, deep-sea fishing, special entertainment such as fireworks, musical groups, and a custom treasure hunt are not included.
Details on the Island
Home
Recent Comments