Bling to go…

Posted by Staff in Budget Thursdays, France

This week’s travel product is not of the traditional nature.

When I think of traveling I never think of jewelry….don’t get me wrong….I love me some bling…I just don’t like the stress that comes with taking valuables on a trip…..carrying a passport is stress enough.

Well I found a solution, Made By Stella. Stella is an amazing jewelry designer from San Francisco. She handmakes all the pieces herself and uses gold vermeille, gold fill, or sterling silver with natural stones.

For those that are allergic to costume jewelry like myself, her jewelry offers a great solution without breaking the bank.

Since the pieces are not very expensive, there is no stress with taking them with you. Above is a pic of me at dinner with my “Made By Stella” necklace and earrings….thanks Stella!

Click here to check out her Etsy boutique

Hotel Florian, Cannes

Posted by Staff in Budget Thursdays, France

While in Cannes I am staying at the Hotel Florian. If you are lucky enough to find a room available, it is the perfect budget stay.

At 92€ per night and located in the center of the town, just two mini-blocks from the beach….this budget hotel can not be beat.

The rooms are clean and simple, and if you have a room facing the street you can see the ocean when you pop your head out the window and look right.

Get more info at hotel-leflorian.com

Hotel Virginia, Santa Barbara

Posted by Staff in Budget Thursdays, California

Santa Barbara, California, is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the west coast.  

Popularity comes at a price, and budget travelers often get left out in the cold.

If you want to visit Santa Barbara but don’t have the $500 a night to stay in one of the many central and luxurious hotels/inn…..I have a solution and its the Hotel Virigina, a Holiday Inn Express.

The Hotel Virginia was originally built in 1916 and is a historical landmark.  The recent renovations have left the rooms looking like mini-four seasons digs.  

Not only are the rooms great, the location can’t be beat.  The hotel is in the center of downtown and only a few blocks from the beach…..it is so central that you can park your car for the weekend and see everything by foot.

Rooms start at $159 and although you might be able to find more budget accommodations in Santa Barbara, you would be hard pressed to find a place so central and with so much charm.

Visit them at HotelVirginia.com