The Ultimate Miami Travel Guide | Best Restaurants, Attractions, Hotels and Tours

If you follow me on social media you might think I live in Miami. My husband and I visit 2-3 times a year and locals recognize us at our favorite restaurants. We no longer need a map or GPS to navigate the city and I feel completely at home under the swaying palm trees of Ocean Drive.

When I flew back to Toronto last week there was a snow storm. It took 15 minutes to drive one block and I immediately regretted not staying longer. If you’re looking for a fabulous winter escape, Miami is a short flight away and offers the perfect balance of bustling city life and serene tropical beaches.

In this guide I am sharing a few of my favorite attractions, restaurants, tours and hot-spots to help you plan a fantastic vacation. I will be updating this article frequently so you might want to bookmark it for future reference. 

Places to Stay

There are many great hotels and neighborhoods in Miami but you'll pay more to stay near the beach and accommodations on the strip range from run-down rooms above noisy bars to high-end suites. Over the years hotel prices have skyrocketed but you can cut costs by renting a car and staying in a beautiful suburb like Doral.

I prefer resort style properties reminiscent of the Caribbean so Provident Doral is one of my favorite hotels. The large complex backs on to a pristine golf course and offers spacious rooms, great amenities and luxurious bathrooms with TVs above the Jacuzzi tubs.

For families and groups, I recommend Marriott's Villas at Doral (4101 NW 87th Avenue Miami) which offers suite style accommodations. Our apartment had a full kitchen with pots, pans and utensils, in-room washer and dryer, 2 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a large balcony overlooking the lake and a stylish living-dining area. 

The master bedroom has a deep soaker tub and waterfall shower. 

Take advantage of the beautiful pool, free mini golf, shuffleboard court and pool tables. 

There are also fun events listed on the resort's activity schedule. They include wine and cheese tasting, paint night and an animal show. At 3 pm daily there is free ice cream by the pool and the fire pit is a cozy place to relax after a long day.

Attractions, Tours and Shopping

Both hotels are close to one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon – Dolphin Mall. This is the liveliest shopping center I've ever been to which is probably why I’m always there. Aside from a wide selection of great stores, there is a nice outdoor area with arcades, restaurants, bowling alley, movie theater and stylish bars. In the evening people gather to have dinner or sip cocktails and on weekends there is usually a live band. I also recommend the Cheesecake Factory patio for a fabulous meal.

If you're in the mood for a spicy chicken sandwich head to Popeyes. In Canada we don't have the original burger (the one Americans are obsessed with) but it is definitely worth trying. The thick, juicy chicken breast is marinated for 12 hours and cooked to crispy perfection. I don't eat a lot of fast food but this was delicious!

Duck Tours is one of my top recommendations for newbies because it covers both land and water with fun historical commentary. The bus takes you on an exhilarating drive around the city while blasting the song “Welcome to Miami” and when you reach beautiful Biscayne Bay, it transforms into a boat and plunges in the water. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for manatees! For more information visit the website by clicking HERE.

Miami also has a Hop On - Hop Off Bus Tour which I’ve taken in many cities throughout the world. It stops at top attractions and you can sit back, relax and enjoy the city without dealing with traffic.

Vizcaya Museum and Garden is a beautiful oasis of baroque architecture, fountains, flowers and exotic creatures. Spend an afternoon strolling around the villa and soak up the warm Florida sun. The garden is also a great place for photography.

Jungle Island is a small eco-adventure park in the heart of Miami offering family friendly activities, exciting animal encounters and shows. Tickets cost $49.95 for adults and $35.95 for children.

Miami has a beautiful coastline and South Beach/Miami Beach along Ocean Drive is known for its nightclubs, restaurants and colorful Art Deco buildings. Walk along the strip, dip your toes in the cool water and stop for lunch at one of the many trendy patios that serve giant cocktails.

One of my favorite places to party on South Beach is Clevelander Bar. You will spot the illuminated palm trees and blue dance floor as you make your way up the beach at night.

When I exit the plane (tired and hungry) I usually head straight to Jamaica Kitchen for flaky curry chicken patties, spicy jerk chicken, sweet plantain tarts and savory soup. I discovered this Caribbean gem while watching The Food Network show - You Gotta Eat Here and since then I’ve been back countless times. The small restaurant is tucked away in a plaza and owned by a friendly Chinese-Jamaican family. What they lack in dining space they make up for in flavor.

CityPlace Doral is a beautiful entertainment complex with street performances, music, bars and restaurants. 

For date night I highly recommend Cinebistro - a VIP luxury full-service move theater with comfortable reclining chairs. Arrive early to enjoy the bar and take advantage of their in-theater dining experience. Ticket holders are eligible for validated parking in CityPlace lots.

Pinecrest Gardens is a tropical rainforest that seems to have sprouted up out of nowhere! If you are looking for peace and quiet, escape to the beautiful canopies and enjoy the natural ponds, petting zoo, vibrant flowers and exotic wildlife. Tickets cost just $5.00 and it is very close to Jamaica Kitchen Restaurant. 

Thrill seekers won’t want to miss the Florida Everglades. While flying over Miami you may notice that much of the city is surrounded by marshland and canals. These lush wetlands are home to dense mangrove forests and hundreds of unique species including birds, turtles, manatees, panthers, deer, large pythons and of course alligators. I recommend a high-speed air boat tour that cruises alongside floating gators and cuts through grassy rivers. 

I went on an Everglades tour in Homestead and stopped at Robert’s Fruit Stand to enjoy delicious milkshakes and all-natural smoothies loaded with tropical fruit. Recently this little store has gained a lot of attention for its fresh jams and flavored honey but the prices are quite steep.

If you venture outside of Miami, I highly recommend a scenic drive from Miami Beach to Fort Lauderdale Beach along the coast. It may take a couple hours (depending on traffic) but you can also jump on the highway and get there in about 30 minutes. 

In Fort Lauderdale Beach (North Atlantic Blvd area) make sure to stop at Primanti Brothers for delicious pizza and their famous sandwiches loaded with homemade slaw, crispy fries and meat. I seem to eat pizza on all my trips and Primanti makes one hell of a pie. The dough is fresh, the sauce is spiced to perfection and the toppings are scrumptious (plain cheese is my favorite).

Don’t miss Las Olas Boulevard - a trendy neighborhood with malls, specialty shops and great restaurants. Stop for frozen yogurt and have dinner at one of the beautiful patios on the water. 

Boat Tours and Dinner Cruises

I also recommend booking a dinner cruise aboard the iconic Jungle Queen River Boat. It departs from The Bahia Mar Yachting Center on Seabreeze Blvd in Fort Lauderdale.

The tour travels through downtown Fort Lauderdale to Millionaires Row (the "Venice of America") where you will see celebrity mansions and spectacular mega yachts before arriving at Tropical Isle for an all-you-can-eat barbecue dinner.

I've been on this cruise twice and it is by far my favorite scenic tour. The food is mediocre - barbecue chicken (you might want to bring your own Tabasco), warm bread, ribs, beans, delicious potato wedges and creamy coleslaw served with water or watered down ice tea. Dessert, soft drinks, hot beverages and alcohol is not included but can be purchased at the bar.

The beautiful island is decorated with twinkling lights, pagodas and tiki torches. After dinner you'll have time to visit the rescued animal sanctuary and enjoy a lovely outdoor show featuring comedians, jugglers and magicians.

Traveler's Tip: Check Groupon Miami for discounted tickets (usually $10 off per person) and arrive early to check-in and line up for preferred seating. For more information visit the Jungle Queen website HERE.

I know Key West is not in Miami or Fort Lauderdale but if you have a car and don’t mind a long, scenic drive, I highly recommend spending a couple days in the area. Make sure to visit the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy and stop at a few white sandy beaches along the way.

Check out my Key West Travel Guide HERE

There are a lot of trendy spots in Miami and Bayside Market Place and Marina is one of my favorites!

Do some shopping, take a photo with the oldest tree in the city and have lunch on a patio overlooking the marina as boats sail into the harbor. I usually opt for Chilis Bar & Grill because they serve delicious South-Western Egg Rolls.

Travelers Tip: Street parking in this area of downtown Miami is around $15.00 for 3 hours so check rates at the nearby arena. On weekdays they offer parking for as little as $5.00.

If you want to spend more time on the water, Fiesta Cruises leaves from Bayside Pier and usually offers great discounts on Groupon Miami (we paid $14.00 per person). Although the tour is relaxing, be weary of their giveaway scam. They may ask you to fill out a ballot to win prizes. My husband and brother-in-law both won and were asked for a $40 deposit. You are also required to pay taxes on all vacation packages plus attend some sort of time-share meeting.

If you book a specific cruise time with Fiesta they may not honor it so be prepared to leave whenever the next boat does. Drinks on-board are overpriced. A frozen cocktail in a small plastic cup cost $10.00 but the skyline looks stunning from the water.

Wynwood Walls outdoor art gallery is one of the most popular free activities in Miami. The bright graffiti murals are created by artists from around the globe and they make spectacular selfie backdrops.

If you stop in Wynwood, head to The Salty Donut for gourmet treats and coffee. Strawberry shortcake is my favorite flavor.

Little Havana is a vibrant Cuban neighborhood in the heart of Miami. I mainly go for the delicious Cuban ice cream at Azucar. They make unique flavors like guava, almond, cinnamon and pear.

This district is also famous for colorful graffiti art, Latin American galleries, cigar shops, eccentric rooster statues designed by local artists and cafes with walk-up windows selling authentic Cuban cuisine.

One of my favorite healthy restaurants in Miami is Diced. The all-natural rice and salad bowls are loaded with your choice of veggies, meat and sauces.

Over the last two years I’ve spent a lot of time relaxing on the long, quiet beaches of Key Biscayne. This area is a nice escape from the crowds on Miami Beach and the water is calm and shallow. My husband and I like to picnic under the palm trees at sunset.

Many cruises leave from Miami and Fort Lauderdale so after you explore the city why not hop aboard and sail to the Caribbean! Of course this will require extra planning but I’ve been on 10 cruises and they were all incredible. (Celebrity and Royal Caribbean have been my favorite).

Travelers Tip: Arrive 1-2 days before your cruise sets sail in case of flight cancellations or delays at the airport. You wouldn't want the ship to leave without you!

South Pointe Park and Pier is a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon. Around 4 pm you can watch the cruise ships set sail and this area of the beach is usually less crowded. I saw a few jellyfish and 3 large manatees floating by!

If you're looking for an upbeat lounge, restaurant and bar with delicious food and amazing music, check out Bahama Breeze Island Grille. I went to the Pembroke Pines location on a Friday night and the patio was decorated with torches and romantic lighting while the DJ played reggae, soca (calypso), R & B and old school. 

Cuban culture is an integral part of Miami's fun, upbeat vibe so I highly recommend trying some of the delicious food. El Mago de Las Fritas has been around since 1984 and the family owned restaurant serves authentic Cuban sandwiches bursting with flavor and topped with crispy potato strips. Instead of French fries, try the fried plantain and wash it down with a fresh mango smoothie.

There is much to discover in Florida so I am already planning another trip after I explore a few other destinations on my bucket list. For more vacation inspiration check out my travel page.

Lise Watier Sublimessence Nuit Regenerating Serum Review & Age Control Supreme

Lise Watier has been a favorite brand among Canadian women for generations. My grandmother used it, my mom uses it and now I’m hooked! If you haven’t tried the beautiful makeup and incredible lipsticks then head to the nearest Hudson’s Bay or Shoppers Drug Mart and start swatching! The pigments are vibrant, trendy and high quality.

Until recently I hadn’t tested much of the skincare but now I can’t get enough! The nourishing formulas have replenished my skin so that my complexion is dewy, supple and healthy – exactly what I need this winter.

The new Regenerating Night Serum ($94.00) is simply divine! If you look closely you can see real flowers floating around in the luscious liquid – these pretty petals are Belle de Nuit Flower and Labrador Tea Extract - “the most powerful antioxidant around.” The potent formula contains 60% active ingredients comprised of a rejuvenating blend of extracts and natural oils that detoxify, moisturize, soothe and boost radiance. The unique blend was created to promote true beauty sleep, enhancing the body’s healing cycle to refresh the face and diminish skin aging. 1-2 drops is usually all it takes and the lightweight liquid seeps in deeply to fortify dull skin that has been affected by environmental elements. I layer the serum under night cream to saturate my skin in nutrients.

You’d have a difficult time trying to pry the Age Control Supreme Nuit Sublime ($114) away from me because it is a dry skin savior! When it comes to luxury skincare it doesn’t get much better than this. Enriched with the intense regenerating power of a night mask, the buttery cream envelopes skin in layers of lush moisture that immediately softens, smooths, plumps, hydrates and protects. Since I started using it my skin feels incredibly silky and I awake with a lovely glow whether I get enough sleep or not. The intense conditioning formula seems to resurface and resurrect parched skin, improving the appearance of pores and texture. With time wrinkles are visibly reduced and lines are softened. The cream also comes with a small scoop so you don’t have to dip your fingers in.

Since I love the moisturizer so much I had to try the Age Control Supreme La Creme Sublime Yeux ($85.00). Inspired by the latest beauty innovations from Korea, the formula combines the effectiveness of a serum with the benefits of a cream to pamper sensitive skin. With 60% active ingredients you can expect an improvement in dark circles, puffiness, drooping eyelids and crow’s feet. It also diminishes other unsightly discoloration (red, blue and brown tones) while reviving tired eyes. The texture is thicker than most eye creams I’ve used but as you massage it in with the soothing applicator ball it melts and becomes liquid-y for quick absorption and hydration.

Face Masks are the latest beauty craze and even though some designs make you look like Jason from Friday the 13th they are great for sealing in moisture and vacuum-packing your face in nutrients. On my recently trip to Florida I took one of the Lise Watier Black Night Masks ($45.00 for 3) to restore my skin after extreme climate change and jet lag. After 20 minutes of moisture infusion my skin was so soft and refreshed that you could barely tell I’d been awake for 24 hours. This is a great treatment to use if you’ve been feeling the effects of winter and need a little rejuvenation. 

Lise Watier is available at Hudson’s Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart and online at lisewatier.com

Make Up For Ever Artist Color Shadow Review & Swatches

If you can’t find the perfect eye shadow palette or you’re tired of purchasing collections with colors you never seem to use then why not create your own? The new Make Up For Ever Artist Shadow range includes 121 highly pigmented shades with 5 blendable finishes that deliver 12 hours of wear. You can purchase the colors individually with the refillable magnetic pan for $24.00 or get the duo ($37.00), trio ($50.00), quad ($63.00) and 6 pan palettes ($77).

What I love most about this idea is that you can mix and match in so many gorgeous combinations without getting stuck with colors that are similar to shades you already own. I chose 3 shades but unfortunately the burgundy color I had my eye on (Matte-847) did not arrive.

I tend to go for rich, vibrant hues so I was drawn to Iridescent-220 Sapphire – a stunning deep blue with a hint of radiant shimmer. The texture is smooth and slightly creamy so it applies effortlessly and adheres well without creasing. The color is intense yet versatile so you can go from sheer to full-coverage by layering and the multidimensional finish accentuates the eyes. This blue can be used on its own to create an entire look - apply it heavier on the lids for a sultry effect and blend lightly in the crease fading gradually towards the brow bone. For a smokey look smudge the blue under the lower lash line and you’re ready for a night out.

Metallic-912 Orchid is a lovely purple-pink that reminds me of spring. It brightens the complexion with a subtle metallic sheen and I love pairing it with deep matte purple in the crease or bronzy aubergine with bold black liner. I recommend using a good primer to enhance the color even more but the quality is fantastic.

Make Up For Ever is available at boutiques nationwide and Sephora

Maybelline The City Mini Palette Review & NEW Master Holographic Highlighter

Maybelline understands that busy women need great makeup to create effortless looks that are stylish and trendy. The new City Mini Palettes ($14.99) feature 6 dramatic shades that transition from office appropriate to evening glam and they are small enough to slip in your purse for touch-ups on-the-go.

If you like radiant gold, warm neutrals and soft champagne tones then try Rooftop Bronzes. These scintillating shades contrast beautifully and offer the perfect level of intensity and richness for daily wear. There are no mattes in this palette – the finishes range from fun pops of glitter to refined satins with great pigmentation, no creasing and good longevity.

Chill Brunch Neutrals is a bit more subtle yet still quite sultry and chic. This palette has 2 creamy mattes that compliment the smokey purple, taupe and silver beautifully. I recommend using a good primer to enhance the colors even more but they layer well with buildable saturation.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner you may want to try soft pink tones for date night and Downtown Sunrise is a great option. I love the vibrant coral but it may scatter so pat it on instead of swiping for better concentration. You can also mix and match your favorites from each palette. 

Glowing skin is always on-trend so Maybelline has created dazzling new highlighters. My favorite is the Master Chrome Metallic in the shade Molten Gold. For just $12.99 you get gorgeous creamy color for subtle illumination or bold strobing and the silky texture is easy to blend and layer with no chalkiness. I think the brand should have used this formula for the eye shadow palettes as well because the color is highly pigmented and clings to the skin for longer wear and better saturation.

The Holographic Highlighter ($12.99) is silvery with flecks of blue glitter and prismatic shine. The pearl pigments are glamorous and sparkly but the finish is sheer and the particles tend to scatter. I prefer the Chrome formula because the color is consistent, fluid and neat but the holo effect is fun for parties.

Maybelline is available at drugstores nationwide 

Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real Double The Lip Lipstick Review

Last week I left for Florida to write a travel article and escape from the snow. It was warm in Miami with swaying palm trees, beautiful beaches and delicious food so I needed to transform my makeup look from winter chic to summer blooms and incorporate bright color. I decided it was a good time to try my new Benefit lipsticks and sweep on some sunshine with the pretty GALifornia Blush.

The Lipsticks ($26.00 ea) are two-toned and well coordinated to deliver consistent, uniform color. I was expecting an ombré effect but the pigments blend to create one solid shade. The deeper hue at the very tip is supposed to function as lip liner but since the finish is quite sheer, it doesn’t really produce a distinct outline. The sharp teardrop shape is great for neatness and precision around the lip contour and the creamy texture helps fill in the center of your pout for a subtle wash of color. What I like most is how lightweight, supple and soft the lipsticks appear. The moisturizing finish looks like a juicy, faded stain creating the illusion of plumpness. The saturation is not very intense but the colors are easy to wear - similar to tinted balm.

Revved-Up is a vivid pink and Flame Game is a bright orange/coral.

The golden-pink tones in the GALifornia Blush ($38.00) instantly revives a dull complexion with a pop of radiance and the delicious scent features notes of pink grapefruit and vanilla. The silky, color is buildable so you can adjust the intensity and the powder sweeps on seamlessly creating the perfect coral flush and glow for all skin tones. The mini size is ideal for travel and I love the surfer girl artwork.

Benefit is available at Sephora, beautyboutique.ca, Shoppers Drug Mart, Benefit Boutiques and online at benefitcosmetics.com

Valentine’s Day 2018 - Gift Ideas & Beauty Essentials

Valentine’s Day is almost here and it looks like Cupid went on a decorating frenzy covering the stores in pink and red. My husband and I plan unique date nights all the time but I like the idea of setting aside a special day to celebrate love - it forces us to step back from our hectic lives, indulge in a little romance and appreciate our relationship. It is also perfectly acceptable to stuff your face with chocolate without being judged for slacking on your New Year’s resolutions.

I’m not the type of girl who wants 20 stuffed animals in my room (no matter how cute) and although roses are gorgeous I’m convinced that flowers and plants hate me (they seem to die as soon as I take them home). I much prefer a weekend getaway, fragrance, wine, tickets to the ballet or opera, books, jewelry and of course I never turn down makeup.

To help you get ready for date night I’ve rounded up some cute products and guys if you’re reading this, I hope you get some great gift ideas (don’t wait until the last minute).

Good skincare is essential for flawless makeup and a pimple-free night. If you take forever to get ready (like me) then do a rejuvenating face mask the night before. The Better Skin Lava Magik Cleanser Scrub and Mask ($42.00) is a great all-in-one treatment. The formula is infused with real volcanic lava, calendula, sweet orange, grape seed, cucumber, parsley and chamomile plus the brand is paraben-free, gluten-free and vegan. The mineral-rich paste removes dirt, oil and impurities while gently buffing away dead cells, boosting radiance, moisturizing, softening and minimizing pores. (Available at Murale betterskinco.com and beautyboutique.ca)

While pampering your complexion why not relax with a nice cup of tea. The Lot’s of Kisses Mug ($14.99) is adorable and the extra large size is perfect for satisfying my caffeine cravings. If you prefer a less stimulating drink try the Tealish Purple Peace Empower Me Tea ($18.00). This warm, velvety blend contains orange and apple pieces, coriander seeds, cinnamon, cardamom, pink peppercorn and cloves which all have amazing health benefits. I like to drink it with a splash of milk and honey. (Available at avon.ca)

My hair takes a long time to style so I need all the help I can get. The Power Dry Me Spray ($19.50) decreases blow drying time by 50% while conditioning, smoothing, reducing frizz and shielding from heat damage. The formula is lightweight non-sticky and smells wonderful!
(Available online at designmehair.com)

After all that styling you’ll need a great finishing product to keep your do in-place and looking fab. The Matrix Style Fixer ($19.99) is an anti-humidity hairspray that provides long lasting hold and shine with an ultra dry finish and no flakes. If you’re going for a tousled windswept look try the Matrix Texture Builder ($19.00) for lift, body, movement and volume - your mane will look luscious all night. (Salon listing at matrixprofessional.ca)

I am all for using products that protect my hair and prevent damage which is why I love gummiband! Since discovering these cute accessories I’ve abandoned all my other hair bands. The coil design holds my ponytail snugly with no denting or crinkling and they look good on my wrist. There are a variety of trendy shades to choose from and the gummi material does not absorb oil, sweat or water which means no bacteria. They are also easy to remove without yanking or breaking strands of hair. The best part - you can re-use the cords for years and when they stretch out simply apply some heat with a blow dryer and they shrink back to their original shape. A box of 4 hair cords retails for $7.99 at gummiband.ca.

This Valentine’s day I will be digging into my stash of lipstick and choosing the sexiest shades but no matter how pretty the pigment, dry lips are not cute. Make sure to moisturize heavily before applying your lip color – start with a scrub to exfoliate rough skin and condition your pout with the Eos Pomegranate Raspberry Lip Balm ($5.53 each). The ultra hydrating, organic formula is loaded with antioxidants, shea, jojoba and vitamin E to soften, smooth and nourish. These tubes coincide with the V-Day color scheme so keep one in your purse and give a few to those you love.

The Avon True Color Let’s Make Out Lipstick Trio ($20.00) makes a fabulous gift and the colors are perfect for a night out. The set includes 3 sultry matte shades: Red Supreme, Hot Plum (one of my all-time faves) and Marvelous Mocha for neutral lovers. The creamy, saturated pigment glides on effortlessly and drenches lips in full-coverage vibrant color. (Available at avon.ca)

If you prefer subtle shades try Avon's Just Kiss Me Lip Balm ($10.00). It provides a soft, lightweight tint that makes your pout appear supple and seductive.

These are too cute to pass-up!

After you’ve shimmied into your little black dress you’ll need some eye-catching jewelry to accentuate your beauty. Ruby is the perfect gem stone to represent love and Avon’s Ravishing Red Collection is much better than roses. This sophisticated set includes tear drop earrings ($14.99), bracelet ($11.99), necklace ($11.99) and a large glittering ring ($11.99). Although the pieces are very affordable they look elegant and expensive so this is the perfect gift if you’re on a budget. The vivid red and diamond-like accents sparkle beautifully against the skin so he won't be able to take his eyes off you. (Available at avon.ca)

If you prefer something delicate and a little less glam I recommend the lacy Filagree Teardrop Earrings ($11.99). The pattern reminds me of exotic Moroccan lamps and the design is great for special occasions and everyday wear. (Available at avon.ca)

For the finishing touch you will need an irresistible fragrance and although I have a large collection this year I’m going with something strong, mysterious and graceful. Avon’s Prima Noir ($30.00) features an alluring black and red ombré bottle that compliments the warm spicy notes within. Silky violet and opulent jasmine contrast beautifully with creamy vanilla creating an enticing feminine scent that is sure to turn heads.  

The night doesn’t have to end after dinner. Keep the passion going, break out the massage oils and set the mood by lighting an intoxicating candle. Avon has a delicious selection including Celebrate Love ($12.00) with notes of sparking citrus, tart berries, effervescent musk and rose petals.

The Lot's of Kisses Journal is also from Avon, it retails for $7.99.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Skincare Travel Essentials – Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Collection

Being a Travel Editor is exciting! I have the opportunity to explore exotic destinations all over the world and experience fascinating cultures, ancient civilizations and stunning architecture. It also means a lot of air travel which is my least favorite part of the journey. At the end of a long flight I always emerge looking like a zombie (no matter how comfortable it is in first class) and the dry re-circulated air only makes matters worse. According to The World Health Organization, the humidity on airplanes is usually less than 20% which is 5% less than the average humidity in the Sahara Dessert. These conditions dry out the skin which causes oil glands to overproduce resulting in a greasy, haggard complexion. I also notice that my skin is more prone to abnormal breakouts and irritation during travel which is very annoying.

To help combat extreme climates, dehydration and dullness I’ve been fighting back with Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Collection. I’ve actually been using the original Skin Protectant Balm ($29.00) for years now because it soothes irritation, redness, itchiness, dryness, rashes, burns and hives. Anytime I have a skin concern or problem I slather some on to heal, calm and deeply nourish. I’ve even spoken to celebrity makeup artists and stylists who use the balm backstage at major fashion shows and events – they call it their “secret weapon.” It works wonders on dry hands, nails, rough cuticles and feet while alleviating symptoms of chapping, peeling and windburn. The original formula enriched with Vitamn E and beta-hydroxy is thick and Vaseline-like with a strong scent that reminds me of muscle rub or medicinal ointment. I don’t mind the aroma but an unscented version is also available. The balm melts in quickly and begins repairing and moisturizing right away so I always take it on vacation.

The Advanced Ceramide Capsules ($98.00 for 60) are perfect for travel because they come packaged in little pods that you can pop in your purse or pocket and whip out when your skin feels parched. Ceramide reinforces the skin’s natural moisture barrier to prevent dehydration and a blend of potent botanicals, extracts and oils help smooth, restore and firm to diminish the signs of aging. There is more than enough serum per capsule and I like to apply it before bed as a restorative night treatment.

For head-to-toe hydration you should definitely pack the All-Over Miracle Oil ($36.00) for face, body and hair. The formula smells fantastic and dispenses as a lightweight mist that absorbs quickly with a healthy sheen. There is no greasy residue, heaviness or transfer and it helps replenish damaged hair and flaky skin with a blend of grape seed, avocado, olive and castor oils. Use it prior to take-off and again before landing to maintain a healthy moisture balance.

The Intensive Lip Repair Balm ($29.00) heals, restores and locks-in moisture with a rich blend of oils and lush butters. Before closing the shade and settling in for a nap at 30,000 ft, apply the balm liberally for a soft, chap-free pout.

Elizabeth Arden is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Hudson’s Bay, London Drugs and online at beautyboutique.ca. Visit the website by clicking HERE.

Marcelle Cosmetics Smokey Eye Shadow Palette Review

Yesterday was one of those days that seemed to go on and on with no end in sight. I was up at 5 am battling rush hour for an early breakfast with Dior followed by two meetings, a lunch date and a press event for Loreal before spending 3 hours in traffic during a mini snow storm. On busy morning with no time for blending eye shadow I reach for palettes that make life easier like the new Smokey Collection from Marcelle. These subtle, calming hues are simple, chic and effortless for quick looks that are perfect for day wear.

There are 2 color schemes available – Warm Nudes (my personal favorite) features champagne, gold, bronze, cream and brown which looks good on everyone. Cool Nudes contains grey, taupe, silver and cream. The pigments are soft, flattering and silky with both matte and satin finishes for contrast and definition.

I recommend using a good primer to enhance vibrancy and longevity but the shadows can be swiped on quickly for a light pop of radiance. You don’t need to be an expert to make these shades look pretty, simply apply the deep hues in the crease, highlight the brow bones and accentuate the lids with the satin tones. The color payoff is not dramatic or bold but you can layer and smudge the darker shades for more smokiness. Both palettes could use more intensity but they are very office appropriate. 

I had no problem with creasing or fading and the palettes are great for travel! They retail for $16.95 each at drugstores nationwide and online at marcelle.com.