Friday, February 24, 2012

Paris Fashion Week 2012

Paris Fashion Week 2012

We are getting ready to head back to Paris for fashion week- stay tuned to our Facebook and Twitter for photos and updates from our team!

Twitter: @CJShoppingTours


Wednesday, February 22, 2012

London Fashion Week

London Fashion Week

We are getting ready to head back to Paris for Ready to Wear fashion week... so exciting! While mentally preparing outfits to pack in our bags, we decided to look around to see what the stars were wearing. Typically I like to see what colors and patterns they are combining to get ideas for outfits of my own. Of course my style may be nothing like theirs, but I like to see fashion as an art and way of expressing yourself, so why not look elsewhere for inspiration!

Take a look at Who What Wear for what the celebs wore to London Fashion Week... happy fashion week!






Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Friday, February 17, 2012

French Recipe Friday

French Recipe Friday


Today we will be featuring how to make a French omelette. If you have ever been to Paris, or France in general you will notice that they eat their omelettes much "wetter" for lack of a better word, that we do in the States. Personally I prefer them this way as they are much fluffier, fresher, and taste so much better! Check out today's quick and easy video on how make them for yourself. Yum! Enjoy!


Thursday, February 16, 2012

Audrey Hepburn Quote

Audrey Hepburn Quote









For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.


Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Monday, February 13, 2012

Style DIY: Customize Your Ankle Boots

Style DIY: Customize Your Ankle Boots

Tired of your boots? Want to add a little flare to your wardrobe? Check out ASOS for an easy way to customize your ankle boots. Let us know how it works!

All you need is an old pair of boots, oil-based, water-resistant paint such as vinyl-acrylic, in as many colors as you like, novelty stickers, gems, studs, or whatever embellishment catches your eye, superglue, masking tape, paint brushes, and newspaper! Voila!




Thursday, February 9, 2012

World's Most Romantic Hotels

World's Most Romantic Hotels

Planning a romantic getaway for two? Check out Trip Advisor's top 10 most romantic hotels... even better Paris weighs in at number 3!

Even if you are like me and don't have time to take vacation right now, put this on the list of things to do... who wouldn't love a romantic vacay with your special someone??




Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Gluten Free in Paris

Gluten Free in Paris

I recently discovered that I am allergic to Gluten... drat! After over 20 years of daily headaches and stomach aches, we finally figured out that they were caused by a gluten sensitivity. I am no doctor, so I won't bore you with the effects of gluten, what exactly this all entails, what I can and can not eat... BUT for those of you who are right there with me and know exactly what this means I have GREAT news!

Traveling and having to avoid gluten is a real pain in the... you know what! Especially in Paris... let's just say, restaurants don't work the same there as they do here. What you see on the menu is what you get... that's it... no changes, no substitutions, nothing! So for those of you like me who try to avoid gluten so you don't end up curled up in a ball from stomach pains, here's a small solution!

More and more restaurants are offering gluten free options and stores are selling gluten free products... EVEN in Paris! Check out this link for more information and PLEASE feel free to share any other places that you may know! Cheers to Gluten Free... ehhh


For more information about celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or wheat allergies visit the link below or consult your doctor for a better understanding and how it may be affecting you personally.



Thursday, January 26, 2012

Paris Fashion Week 2012

Paris Fashion Week 2012

Haute Couture for Spring/Summer 2012 took place from Monday January 23rd-Thursday January 26th.

Ready to Wear Fall/Winter 2012/2013 February 28th-March 7th

Men's Fashion Fall/Winter 2012/2013 lasted from January 18th-January 22nd

For more EXCLUSIVE coverage, pictures, stories, and videos- visit below for all your must have info!

We will be sure to post plenty of pictures of our own- stay tuned and like us on Facebook to see more!



Wednesday, January 25, 2012

What's in Your Sauna

What's in Your Sauna

There’s a great deal of talk now about the benefits of saunas….steam and infrared heat, even Dr. Oz is weighing in on the benefits.

I’ve tried them both and like them for different reasons. I won’t tell you my favorite as we have one at home and I can’t tell you how much I love it…but check out these links and try them out yourself. Most full service gyms have either a steam sauna or a hot coal sauna or a dry sauna ….some gyms/health spas have the far infrared light saunas.

Of course, always check with your doctor before trying anything new but read a little about it before you do!!! The claims are not ours but we formed our own opinions from research and trying….you might do the same and enjoy!!


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sauna

http://www.hightechhealth.com/html/sauna_main.htm

http://www.saunarelaxation.com/category/sauna-health

http://www.the-infrared-sauna-effect.com/sauna-vs-steam-room.html


www.cjshoppingtours.com

Monday, January 23, 2012

Fashion Quote of the Day

Fashion Quote of the Day

What better way to get through the Monday blues than with a fashion quote...

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening."- Coco Chanel

Couldn't have said it better myself!


Friday, January 20, 2012

French Recipe Friday

French Recipe Friday

France has a wonderfully diverse mix of cultures contributing to the delicious food choices you can find not only in Paris, but in various regions across the country. Enjoy!




Thursday, January 19, 2012

Paris This Weekend

Paris This Weekend

In Paris this weekend? Need some fun ideas of places to go and things to do?

Check out Maison & Objet- the home fashion showcase. For those of you who love design and home decor this is where you need to be. It's a great place to see the new IT pieces/designs and to take a bit of inspiration home with you! Jan 20th-24th


If you are into cooking then Paris des Chefs is the place for you! Some of France's leading chefs offer cooking demonstrations and classes. Jan 22nd-24th






For a more complete list of events and things to do this weekend check out Paris Update!


Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Fashion Wednesday

Fashion Wednesday

Getting bored of your everyday routine? Stuck in a rut wearing the same variation of clothes from day to day? Not loving the cold weather, bare trees, and overall glum that follows? Need to spice up your wardrobe...

Check out this link for some great ideas and get that strut back in your step!




Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Travel Tip Tuesday

Travel Tip Tuesday

I just recently read about Spirit Airlines $9 Fare Club- they offer exclusive prices to these members for travel including fares as low as $2! YOWZA! I am sure there is some catch, as there always is with something that sounds THIS good... check out the article below for more information...


You tell us... too good to be true??


Friday, January 13, 2012

French Recipe Friday

French Recipe Friday




I am on a "get rid of everything I ate during the Holidays diet," so of course I am searching for foods I can't eat so I can stare and salivate... yummmm!

Check out this video on how to make Raspberry Clafouti... it's short, easy, and DELICIOUS! We like to make ours using Cherries with the pits still in as they add a wonderful almondy flavor. We also use creme fraiche instead of half and half if you can get it. ENJOY... as I surely can't....yet!

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Fashion Quote of the Day

Fashion Quote of the Day

Isn't it interesting how your style- whether you are going to work, an event, out with friends, business meeting, vacation, or lounging around gives everyone a small glimpse into the person you are or the person you want to appear to be?

"Anyone get dressed up and glamorous, but it is how people dress in their days off that are the most intriguing."- Alexander Wang

Couldn't agree more- what do you wear in your days off?


Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Paris Sales

Paris Sales

Sales! Sales! Sales! Or as the French say Soldes! Soldes! Soldes!

For those of you who have never been to Paris and are unfamiliar with how the Sales work there, here is a quick overview... Sales are state regulated in Paris and typically run during two times of the year- once in the Summer, right before everyone leaves in August for Holiday and again shortly after Christmas time... ie NOW!

Winter sales start TODAY Wednesday January 11th and run until Tuesday February 14th. Due to the economic times, the government has allowed stores to offer "unofficial" sales throughout the year if necessary. However the Winter and Summer sale periods are still THE times to shop the sales!

Check out this link for more info!

Let us know if you will be in Paris during the winter sales, summer sales, or anytime at all!






Tuesday, January 10, 2012

The Trench Coat

The Trench Coat

Every girl should own a trench coat! The trench coat is one of those timeless pieces that never goes out of style. It is easily adaptable to any trend, fade, style and comes in an array of colors, fabrics, and designs.

Whether you opt for the designer labels, pret-a-porter, bargain hunter, create your own (for those of you with such talents that make me o so jealous!), or take one that was passed down to you from your mother and have it recreated into something that fits you perfectly... it is definitely a must have!

Who What Wear, has a great front story today about the trench coat and how to wear it- take a look to get some great ideas and spin it into your own style!

How will you wear your trench coat??


Monday, January 9, 2012

French Word of the Day

French Word of the Day

French, the same as english, has the formal and "slang." Here are some quick slang words when saying hello to friends in Paris.

You probably should not use French slang with strangers especially if you are over 30- when in doubt stick with the classic "Bonjour". Once you get to know someone a little better, then feel free to use the slang words provided!

Hi- Salut (Suh-lude) soft "d"
Yo Dudes/guys!- Oh, les gars! (o- lay gare)
Yo girls!- Oh, les filles! (o- lay feey)

On the telephone:

Hello?- Allo? (al-lo)
Hey!- Salut! (suh-lude) soft "d"

Enjoy :)


Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Shopping Tour Guides

Shopping Tour Guides

Meet the Guide! Get acquainted with our guides before booking your trip! This week we are featuring Ellie... take a look at what she has to say!

"Paris... What's not to love about Paris!! The city is full of life, great shopping, and incredible food. Shopping in Paris is a dream come true. The French have such an amazing style, and the shops are so unique. I love fashion and I am able to find such great clothing and accessories here. Moving to Paris gave me the opportunity to learn a new language and discover a new culture. Working for CJ tours is such a pleasure. I am able to meet new people, discover new boutiques, and do what I do best shop!"


Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Travel Tip Tuesday

Travel Tip Tuesday

Do you plan on visiting Paris soon, but don't know how to budget for the trip? We found this handy article that gives you a glimpse into what you might expect from the City of the Lights.


Always remember to bring extra money for emergencies as well as some "fun cash" for gifts, chocolates, "Parisian treats," SHOPPING (of course), or any other splurges you see fit. It's YOUR vacation, have a ball!


Bon Voyage!