The Ole! Report featuring Dalia Ceja

This sultry island offers a lifestyle full of Caribbean charm…

Ah, Key West – just possibly the best place for doing nothing but relaxing, indulging in decadent seafood, taking advantage of the amazing water activities and enjoying the region’s beauty. I spent one glorious and laid-back afternoon {a few months ago} exploring this gorgeous place and have been daydreaming of my next visit. Just a stone’s throw from Cuba {90 miles}, this sultry island has inspired loyalty from many happy, content tourists and islanders, including me.

Fly into one of the many South Florida gateways, rent that convertible you’ve always dreamt about and steer your way down through the many mile markers to the place that gave laziness and key lime pie a good name. Ole!

p.s. Staying positive and upbeat during the most unfortunate {health} situation for a family member is so incredibly difficult. It’s important to tell the people you love how much you love them while they can hear you. Tell them, everyday.

Have a wonderful weekend amigos… x

2011 has come and gone – unbelievable, right?! I’m currently in Lake Tahoe, snuggled up next to the fireplace, drinking vino {thanks Tracy & Matt!} and can’t help but reflect on how incredibly lucky I have felt in 2011. Le sigh.

It was a big year for me in many ways, considering… I took a leap of faith and launched my own blog/website, which gave me the perfect excuse to explore my passions and travel the world {I can’t believe it took me so many years to do it}. I moved in with my boyfriend. I was named Woman of the Year. I was named one of the Most Valuable Lifestyle Bloggers by CBS. And now I’m embarking on a few new projects that I can’t wait to share! Despite the little bumps in the road, life is good grand!

So, as we enter 2012, I invite all of you to jump on the bandwagon, discover new things and live your passions. I am wishing you great success and hope you find what it is that you love to do, and then make the jump and just do it! You’d be surprised what a little believing in yourself can help you accomplish.

Here are a few of my favorite snapshots of 2011! Ole!

P.s. There is so much to be excited about so let’s start this year off with a bang! x

This past weekend the BF and I flew out to NYC for a friend’s wedding. New York is beyond incredible. There’s always somewhere to go and something to do. Every time I go I’m mesmerized by the nonstop energy, vibe, food culture and fashion scene. This time we took the city by storm, walking and taking the subway everywhere. We expected the weather to be much colder, but it was ideal with highs in the 60’s. Score!

I’m in a New York State of mind… 

Most of our time was spent walking around my favorite neighborhoods including the fashionable Soho and West Village area, followed by breezy strolls around the trendy Meatpacking district. A must stop is the famous Chelsea Market, where you’re captivated by the amazingly wicked bakeries, shops and local food stands. I swear, the majority of time we ate and drank and ate some more {a girl’s gotta eat!}. People watching came in a close second and that was almost as much fun.

Here are a few of my favorite snapshots of the weekend… Ole!

I hope everyone has a wickedly delicious and happy thanksgiving!!!

With the vivid fall colors Napa is never more alive than in autumn!

I love being in the Napa Valley during the fall. The vineyard collage of gold, red and orange provides the most incredible kaleidoscope of color. The birch, elm and liquid amber trees add lacy accents to the edges of town and vineyards {where these shots were taken in Yountville}.

The month of November is filled with a whirlwind of fun events to welcome the holiday season {in addition to your standard wine tastings}. Some of my favorite events include: The Napa Valley Film Festival, Holiday in Carneros, Flavor! Napa Valley and the Festival of Lights. For travelers planning their wine country getaway, make your reservations early, as this is a very popular time of the year. Ole!

{Kenneth Cole Boots, Urban Outfitters Dress & H&M Sweater}

p.s. Let this fall be a time to harvest and gather the things that bring you comfort and joy!

If you’re a history buff, London is definitely the place for you! We had limited time to play tourist during our visit, so we chose a few historical sites & landmarks that we could see in one day. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Hampton Court Palace: Take a quick 30-minute train ride to Hampton Court Palace, the infamous home that housed flamboyant King Henry VIII and his six wives. He extended this grand palace after acquiring it in the 1520′s, and its many royal occupants have enriched it with stunning furnishings, tapestries and paintings. Set in 60 acres of formal gardens, this palace is well worth a visit {especially if you like the dramatic and steamy history of King Henry VIII and his six wives}.

2. Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace: Home of the Queen and the centerpiece of Britain’s constitutional monarchy. In addition to its over-the-top lavish interiors and royal history, it’s also a popular stop for the Changing of the Guards Ceremony. This memorable ceremony takes about 45 minutes and includes a band playing popular classical music. A must see during your trip!

3. Hyde Park: This is one of several royal parks in London and covers more than 360 acres. The park plays host to many large events, including celebrations and concerts. It is also a popular place for jogging, swimming, rowing, picnicking and even horseback riding. If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city it’s a peaceful escape to clear your mind and enjoy the lush gardens.

Don’t fret if you can’t do it all, there is always next time. I hope you enjoy your adventure as much as I did! Ole!

What a man is the King! How many wives will he have? 

- Jane Rattsey - Interrogated for gossiping at court {1541}

Check out more pictures below!

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