Tag: Travel

ABC /

GMA3: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW’ HEADS TO NEW ORLEANS 

To kick off this year’s ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola®, ABC News’ “GMA3: What You Need to Know” co-anchors Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes and ABC News Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Jen Ashton will host a special broadcast originating from the heart of New Orleans at Brennan’s in the French Quarter.  

 

On Thursday, June 30, the “GMA3” team will be live from “The Big Easy” to kick off the festival, which ends on Sunday, July 3. Drawing more than 500,000 attendees annually over the holiday weekend, ESSENCE Fest is one of the largest festivals in the country. 

 

As DJ D-Nice spins throughout the show, Robach, Holmes, and Dr. Ashton will interview actress Marsai Martin and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, and look at the hottest fashion trends to expect at this year’s festival with ESSENCE beauty and fashion editor Blake Newby. The show will also give viewers a look back at the history and beginnings of ESSENCE Fest and detail how it became the massive celebration of Black culture it is today with ESSENCE CEO Caroline Wanga. 

 

“GMA3” executive producer Catherine McKenzie said, “After these last few years, as cities are opening their doors to embrace tourists, we are excited to take the show on the road and capture the joy throughout ESSENCE Fest and New Orleans. We hope this coverage will shine a light on this important celebration and help grow appreciation for the amazing contributions of Black culture to American society.” 

 

“As the nation’s largest festival by per day attendance, the ESSENCE Festival of Culture is the crown jewel of celebrating Blackness, which fuels commerce, capital, and capacity that garners true economic impact for our global community,” said Wanga. “We are excited to return to New Orleans live and thrilled that there are options for virtual participation, that our full diasporic family, through our unapologetic “It’s The Black Joy for Me” manifesto, is happy to share with GMA3.” 

 

In addition, this year, The Walt Disney Company is the exclusive entertainment sponsor for ESSENCE Fest, bringing talent, exclusive screenings and experiences from across the Company’s iconic brands and touchpoints, including ABC, ABC News, Disney Branded Television, Disney Cruise Line, Disney+, Disney Studios Content, Disney Television Studios, Disneyland Resort, ESPN, Freeform, FX, Hulu, Marvel Studios, National Geographic, Onyx Collective, Pixar and Walt Disney World Resort. Specific programming, experiences and talent appearances will be announced next week. For more information about Essence Fest, click here. 

 

Follow “GMA3” and the journey to ESSENCE Fest on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For more information, attendees can download the ESSENCE app or join virtually on Essencefestival.com.  

 

ABOUT ESSENCE COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

Essence Communications is the number one—and only 100% Black-owned—media, technology and commerce company at scale dedicated to Black women and communities. With a community of more than 31 million Black women, ESSENCE inspires a global audience through diverse storytelling and immersive original content rooted in Culture, Equity and Celebration. The brand’s multi-platform presence in/ publishing, experiential and online encompasses its namesake magazine; digital, video and social platforms; television specials; books; and signature live events, including Black Women in Music, Black Women in Hollywood, ESSENCE Black Women in Sports, Fashion House, Street Style and the ESSENCE Festival of Culture.

 

Accessories /

ROAM Customizable Premium Luggage: Design Your Own Piece

I am excited to share some big news…ROAM (the world’s first and only color-customizable premium luggage company) is diving into the world of fashion with a gorgeous new color palette.

The new colors are super on-trend and just right for the season. Every detail is customizable…from the front and back panels…to the stitching…to the wheels, so you can create the perfect mix of hues that is completely your own. (There are over a million possible colorways.)

Founded by former Tumi execs, this is high-quality luggage that offers protection against the elements and features ultra-smooth-rolling wheels that take you over even the roughest cobblestones with ease…and chic aplomb!

Every item is handcrafted, made-to-order, at ROAM’s U.S. production workshop. The company also offers a 100-day risk-free trial, which is super rare for any custom item. The team at ROAM truly stands behind the craftsmanship and quality of our product. (ROAM’s CEO, Larry Lein, was TUMI’s longtime EVP.)

Lifestyle Tips /

Visit Pensacola Launches Experience Pensacola Destination App

Visit Pensacola announced the launch of its Experience Pensacola app. The app is designed to assist both locals and visitors in navigating Escambia County.

“This app makes exploring the destination easier than ever, “Visit Pensacola President Darien Schaefer said. “For our residents, I think they’ll find themselves discovering activities and restaurants they never knew existed and for visitors, they’ll find an easy tool to organize and share their vacation with family and friends.”

With a built-in location finder, app users can find experiences closest to them. Some of the core features include:

  • Travel deals for an affordable vacation (locals can indulge, too!)
  • Local restaurant listings
  • Trails and Interactive Tours
  • Custom itinerary builder
  • Happy Hours
  • Current events
  • Local transportation options
  • Museums and attractions

“One of the features I like most is the interactive trails,” Visit Pensacola Partner Relations Manager Kaya Man said. “When we’re stumped for something free and fun to do, it’s a great resource.”

The Experience Pensacola app is available for download on the Apple Store or on Google Play. To learn more about the Experience Pensacola app, or to download it, visit www.visitpensacola.com/app/.

Travel /

#JetOff 6 Fun (And Unusual) Things to Do in Singapore: Travel Attractions

Millions of people make their way to Singapore each year to see the sights and have some fun.

If you are looking for fun things to do in Singapore, but you need some ideas, we are here to help! After all, there are plenty of activities, events, and other fun happenings that you don’t want to miss.

Continue reading this article to learn the best things to do in Singapore.

1. Universal Studios

Singapore’s version of Universal Studios is a great place to visit. They have a mix of attractions that make it a good spot for families with kids young and old.

The Puss In Boots’ Giant Journey in Far Far Away is a good ride to check out for younger kids and for those of you that want to do something more excited you should head to the Battlestar Galactica.

2. Butterfly Park

If you love butterflies and you’re looking for an educational experience, the butterfly park is the perfect place for you.

You can book a guided tour for the educational experience, or you can walk around the park yourself and look at the different types of exotic insects and butterflies.

3. Singapore Flyer

The massive Ferris wheel overlooking the water at Marina Bay is one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels. Looking at the Ferris wheel from the ground is an especially beautiful sight at night with all of the lights.

The ride on the Singapore Flyer takes 30 minutes and lets you take in the amazing sights of the city slowly from up above.

4. Visit Chinatown

Chinatown is filled with plenty of souvenir shops if you’re looking for something to take home. There are also lots of places to get a massage or to grab a bite to eat. Don’t forget the temples you’ll see as you continue walking through Chinatown.

5. National Museum of Singapore

If you want to learn more about the history of Singapore, head over to the National Museum of Singapore. You’ll be able to get a true feel of the history and feel like you were there to experience it with the unique and interesting exhibits.

Living Galleries are especially interesting and will allow you to learn more about Singapore fashion, food, photography, and more.

6. Marina Bay Sands

While this might not be an unknown thing to see while in Singapore, it is one you must see. You’ll be able to shop at the trendiest stores, stay at the hotel and swim in the fantastic pool at the top of the hotel.

Enjoying the Fun Things to Do In Singapore

Now you know more about Singapore and you can start planning some fun things to do in Singapore. Planning your trip well before you go can help you keep from missing some of the coolest things you might have otherwise overlooked.

Do you want to know more about what to do in Singapore and other areas? Our site is full of articles to help you as you’re planning your travels.

Browse through our travel articles, pick some that look good to you, and drop a bookmark to come back a

Collaborative Post

Lifestyle Tips /

2020 Trends to Get Ahead of Now

The new year is right around the corner. And while most of us are focused on the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s definitely not too early to start thinking about what 2020 might hold for you.

This is also a great time of year to start getting familiar with some of the top trends for 2020. Keep reading to learn a few trends that will stand out next calendar year and how you can start jumping on board.

Refresh Your Menu

After a long holiday season full of heavy meals and Christmas cookies, you’ll probably be happy to hear 2020 will be another year of healthy, fresh foods topping the list of popular menu items.

New, trendy options will include collagen powder added to smoothies and other foods to help you achieve glowy skin, keto-friendly options for those on the popular diet and, perhaps surprisingly, Brussels sprouts will see a surge in popularity.

Break Out of Your Comfort Zone

Thinking about dusting off your passport in the new year? Some 2020 travel trends will have you breaking out of your comfort zone in new and exciting ways.

While space travel might be out of your budget, an edgy vacation might be just the ticket. If you’re looking for something a little less revealing, a trip to explore your ancestors’ roots might be a better fit for you.

Don’t Underestimate the Classics

While 2020 is certain to feature some wacky fashion trends, many are expected to be new takes on old classics. From crisp white shirts to floral patterns, the new year will have us all reaching to the back of our closets for those staples we never got rid of.

When it comes to lingerie, the world of bedroom attire has gotten complicated and out there in recent years. But while it’s fun to try out the latest trends, one that never goes out of style is the tried and true classics.

For instance, a simple lingerie set with a garter is guaranteed to create some sparks in your relationship, not to mention help you feel sexy in your own skin.

Get Moving at Home

Every year, millions of people make New Year’s resolutions to get healthier or lose weight after the ball drops on Dec. 31. This causes a spike in gym memberships, which turns into crowds at gyms and fitness studios across the country. But with life inevitably getting in the way and responsibilities piling up, people will start making excuses about why they can’t make it to the gym. And, after a few months, the crowds will fade away again.

Luckily, there’s one 2020 trend that’s looking to break this endless cycle. Home gyms are growing more and more popular with every passing year. This is thanks in part to new home gym technology that makes it easier to get a great workout without leaving your living room.

Featured Photo from Black Girl Health

Whether you choose to invest in some new equipment or make do with a simple set of weights or a yoga mat, working out at home can help save you money, squeeze in more workouts and finally stick to your fitness resolutions.

Getting a Head Start on 2020 Trends

Whether you want to revamp your wardrobe or the way you eat, finally get in shape or take a vacation of a lifetime, following these trends will help you be better prepared for what’s to come in 2020. So, start making plans to get ahead of these trends before the new year is here.

Collaborative Post

Lifestyle Tips /

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island Expands Sales Force Adding Two New Sales Managers

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island welcomes Julianne Dirks and Courtenay LaMountain to its sales team at the award-winning property.

In her new role as a sales manager at the resort Dirks will be responsible for booking small meetings, wedding room blocks, golf groups and all government/military groups. Her vast experience in hospitality began seven years ago at The St. Louis Union Station Hotel as a front office agent, rooms controller, and assistant front office manager. Dirks continued her career with Omni Hilton Head Ocean Front Resort as a sales administrator and The Homewood Suites by Hilton North Charleston as an opening sales manager.

LaMountain joins the resort as a senior sales manager where she will handle group sales in the South Carolina market and ConferenceDirect accounts. Her extensive hospitality experience encompasses over 20 years including roles as conference services manager, sales manager and destination sales executive for Westin Hilton Head and a senior sales manager for Sea Pines Resort.

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island seeks team members who will eagerly work to enhance the overall Sonesta experience for guests and associates as well as adopting our core values, “We look forward to Julianne and Courtenay providing our guests with unprecedented customer service,” said Jay Wiendl, general manager of Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. “They both bring tremendous experience in the hospitality industry to our sales force which will enhance our wonderful staff.”

Award-winning Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island is a premier destination for getaways, gatherings or business. Recognized among area resorts–Hilton Head and beyond–Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island knows how to cater to individuals, businesses and most notably weddings and events. With 11 beautifully landscaped acres leading up to its seaside courtyard and space for up to 1,100 guests, it is the perfect choice among Hilton Head hotels on the beach to host your event.

To learn more about the hiring of Dirks and LaMountain, or other career opportunities with Sonesta Resorts, please visit www.Sonesta.com/careers or more information on Sonesta visit Sonesta.com/HiltonHeadIsland.

###

About Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island 

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island is a AAA approved Four Diamond resort offering 340 guestrooms and suites overlooking lushly landscaped semitropical gardens, with spectacular beach and lagoon-style swimming pool. Its first-class amenities include several dining options, health spa, fitness center and lap pool. The resort also features 22,500 square feet of meeting and event space, including a beachfront Pavilion and a 24-hour business center. Complimentary transportation is provided to and from the world-class golf and tennis offerings available within Hilton Head’s Shipyard complex. The resort is situated 45 miles from Savannah, GA, and seven miles from Hilton Head Island airport, in an area surrounded by outdoor recreation, shopping and fine dining.

About Sonesta
Sonesta is a growing, global hospitality brand with more than 80 properties in 7 countries, centered on a corporate dedication to delivering a guest experience that provides more than just a place to stay. With a portfolio of diverse and distinctive properties as individual as its guests, there is no typical Sonesta. With a full range of exceptional experiences found in many of the most memorable destinations in the world, Sonesta proudly exceeds guest’s expectations time and time again.

Discover Royal Sonesta and Sonesta Hotels & Resorts in Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Hilton Head Island, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, Philadelphia, San Jose, St. Louis, St. Maarten (2), Chile (2), Colombia (7), Ecuador, Peru (5), and Egypt (3 + 2 cruise ships). Sonesta ES Suites is an extended stay hotel brand managed by Sonesta and can be found in 42 locations near Boston, Atlanta, Baltimore, Burlington, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Colorado Springs, Columbus, Detroit, Flagstaff, Houston, Memphis, Minneapolis, Oklahoma City, Omaha, Orlando, Parsippany, Princeton,Philadelphia, Portland, St. Louis and Tucson. For more about Sonesta, visit Sonesta.com or call +1.617.315.9200 or 800.Sonesta (800.766.3782) in the U.S. and Canada.

Lifestyle Tips /

NEW ROOM INSPIRED BY THE WILD NATURE OF THE BARBAGIA AREA AVAILABLE AT SU GOLOGONE HOTEL THIS SEASON

Su Gologone, the hotel that embraces Sardinia’s most genuine traditions and culture, reopens with the new Wild Suite – the latest creation of Mrs. Giovanna Palimodde, artist and owner of the hotel.

Inspired by the wild nature of Barbagia – mountain area of inner Sardinia where Su Gologone hotel is located – the new suite is built using locally sourced materials and aims to better engage guests with the wild identity of the Italian island.

The Wild Suite features two big double bedrooms with two bathrooms and a private garden terrace that features a creative and savvy use of paired copper, iron and juniper trunks. Also, both natural and artificial light blend, creating a calming and soft ambiance.

Junipers, prickly pears, mastic, and cork trees decorate the outdoor area, which overlooks the stunning views of the Barbagia Mountains. This area also features a telescope for star gazing, an open-air bed warmed by a firepit, a bespoke sink installed between the branches of a fig tree and an open-air Jacuzzi.
The interior design of the new Wild Suite is also curated by the owner Mrs. Giovanna Palimodde, using fabrics, linen and home décor items that are part of her own Su Gologone Style® collection.

Su Gologone hotel reopens with the new Wild Suite this season with rates starting at €198 per night for double occupancy, bed and breakfast accommodation in a Classic Room.
Rates for the Wild suite starting at €1,480.00 per night, double occupancy, bed and breakfast accommodation.
www.sugologone.it/en

NOTES TO THE EDITOR – About Su Gologone hotel (Oliena, Sardinia, ITALY)
Located in the Oliena region of Sardinia, Su Gologone hotel embraces authentic Sardinian tradition. Each bespoke hotel room embodies Sardinia’s history, embracing the lives and labors of the island’s weavers, nomadic shepherds, and talented artists. Su Gologone experiences include traditional local activities such as art and craft workshops as well as cooking and sampling authentic local cuisine. www.sugologone.it/en

Lifestyle Tips /

Montgomery Lifts Curtain on Eclectic Summer Events Calendar

With school almost out and summer vacation right around the corner, Montgomery is preparing to welcome more visitors than ever before.  Known for its Southern hospitality and its revitalized downtown, this riverfront capital city was the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement and has established itself as a landmark Deep South destination. With the opening of a world-class monument and museum in April, the destination is gearing up to host events to please every kind of visitor over the summer season. While visitors may come to experience the civil rights attractions, there will be plenty of exciting events over the next few months to ensure a fun-filled vacation.

 “From the end of May through the summer we welcome lots of families enjoying their summer vacations, we and expect a huge turnout this year with the opening of the EJI Memorial and Legacy Museum,” shares Vice President of Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Dawn Hathcock. “We’re proud to offer such a diverse selection of events for the upcoming season from culinary-themed festivals to concerts for the entire family.”

Below is an overview of notable upcoming and celebrations in Montgomery:

  • Riverbend Brew Fest, May 18, 2018

Montgomery‘s Annual Riverbend Brewfest features live music, local food vendors and a large selection of local, regional and nationally renowned craft, seasonal, specialty and micro-brewed beers. For more information, go to http://visitingmontgomery.com/calendar/event/riverbend-brewfest

  • River Jam, May 18 – 19, 2018

Every May, music lovers converge on downtown Montgomery to attend this free two-day event which showcases over 10 live bands. Concerts take place at Riverfront Amphitheatre and Union Station Train Shed. For more information, go to http://visitingmontgomery.com/calendar/event/riverjam-and-riverbend-brewfest

  • Jubilee Pops Concert, May 27, 2018

Join the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra as they kick-off the summer with the Jubilee Pops Concert. This outdoor concert takes place at the Alabama Archives and History Building Lawn in Downtown Montgomery, Alabama and is free and family friendly. For more information, go to http://www.montgomerysymphony.org/pops-concerts/

  • Montgomery Restaurant Week, August 10 – 19, 2018

Coinciding with Alabama Restaurant week, this culinary celebration gives visitors the opportunity to discover new restaurants, dishes, and drinks. Featuring amazing deals at some of Montgomery’s best restaurants.  For more information, go to www.eatmgm.com

  • Buckmasters Expo, August 17 – 19,2018

The Montgomery Convention Center hosts a 3-day expo for the deer hunting industry with over 300 exhibitors from around the country. Kids activities, live concerts, demonstrations and lots of special guests will be featured. For more information, go to http://www.buckmasters.com/Resources/Expo

  • FCS Kickoff, August 25, 2018

The defending Historic Black College and University (HBCU) national champion North Carolina A&T Aggies and the four-time defending Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) champion Jacksonville State Gamecocks will square off in the 2018 Guardian Credit Union FCS Kickoff on Saturday, Aug. 25, at the historic Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. For more information, go to https://www.guardiankickoffclassic.com

  • Montgomery Dragon Boat Festival, August 25, 2018

Over 60 teams from Central Alabama and beyond converge on Riverfront Park in downtown Montgomery to compete in this fundraiser which culminates in a dragon boat race. Off the water, browse various goods from local exhibitors and artists. Live music and food from local vendors will also be featured. Don’t miss the 2nd annual Gun Island Chute SUP CUP standup paddleboard competition on the Alabama River! For more information, go to https://montgomerydragonboat.org/

For more information on Montgomery, go to http://visitingmontgomery.com/

About Montgomery:

Situated on the banks of the Alabama River, Montgomery is the capital and the second largest city in the state of Alabama. Established in 1819, Montgomery has been the site of major historical events which have shaped the history of the United States. Emerging from its agricultural roots in the 19th century, Montgomery transformed from the Cradle of the Confederacy to the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement in less than a century.

Today, this vibrant river town is experiencing a resurgence which has seen its downtown revitalized and has reestablished itself as a landmark Deep South destination.  Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) offers non-stop flights on Delta Airlines and American Airlines.

For more information, call 334-261-1100 or visit the official website of the Montgomery Convention and Visitor Bureau at http://www.visitingmontgomery.com.  Stay connected with Montgomery on Twitter (@MGMCapitalCool) and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/MontgomeryCapitalCool).

Accessories /

Trend Report: Memorial Day Weekend Essentials

Who doesn’t love a long weekend – especially if it is the unofficial start of summer? This Memorial Day weekend, break out your white pants (if you haven’t already!) and hit up the grill, all while looking and feeling your best.

With versatile accessories featuring tassels, summer-appropriate pastels, and prints galore, Ann Taylor and Thirty-One Gifts will help dress up your bathing suits and sundresses. These accessories (and a glass of wine) will keep you cool from the boardwalk to the boardroom.

 

Birmingham /

Staycation Tips This Summer Without Being Boring

If you’re staying at home this summer, you’re probably tired of hearing your friends going on about their vacation plans. While they are regaling you with what they plan to do, or where they have been (if your Facebook wall is inundated with pics), you may be feeling a little blue. Your summer prospects may appear boring in comparison. But wait! Your summer at home doesn’t have to be dull. You can still have a great time, and unlike your mates, you don’t have to endure steep flight costs, long waiting times, tourists, or tummy bugs from dodgy foods.

Here are some ideas to get you thinking about your summer at home.

  1. Look for fun activities near you

Unless you live in the middle of a desert, there are bound to be things you can do in your hometown. There may be amenities such as an Escape Room, bowling alley, cinema, or leisure center. You could get on your bike and head off somewhere scenic, or rock your summer staples if you have a beach near you. We often miss the things right under our noses because we are so intent on exploring new places, so go online, Google your town, and make a list of all the interesting things to do near you.

  1. Get a summer job

If you have time off from your regular job, the last thing you want to do is work all summer. However, you can pick up some valuable experience with your time off, and make some extra money to boot. If you don’t want to work indoors (such as at a grocery store), there may be opportunities to work in the great outdoors, such as at a camping ground, picking fruit, or lending a hand at a local farm. The summer is also a great time to take up a short-term internship program, and this will give you a massive boost to whatever career you are interested in.

  1. Focus on your hobbies

If you’re anything like us, you may not have time to focus on your regular hobbies because of the general busyness of life. However, if you have free time on your hands over the summer, get back into what you love doing. On the other hand, the summer may also be a time to explore new hobbies, especially if local community groups or sports centers are organizing courses and events over the sunny season, so head online and see what’s available.

  1. Get involved with the community

Bring out your charitable side and look for volunteer opportunities over the summer. If you enjoy working with children, you may be able to help out at a holiday club or volunteer as a sports coach. If animals are more your thing, you could volunteers at a local animal shelter or farm. Alternatively, visit the elderly, help the homeless, lend a hand at a food bank, get involved with conservation groups… the opportunities for volunteering are endless, and while they can be hard work, you will have a far more meaningful summer than your friends who are wasting their days lying on the beach.

Finally

Summer at home doesn’t have to be boring, so if you are stuck for something to do, consider our ideas. Who knows, you might even make your friends jealous, especially when they come back from vacation sun-bronzed but with no money!

Collaborative Post