Hello! I mentioned Nicole Reiter’s Natural Hair Studio many times already and shared the link. Many asked me what a Natural Hair Dresser does and why I chose to get my haircut done by Nicole. I had gone to regular, “normal” hairdressers for years and thought every single…
Hello! Better late than never. Today, I had problems with my computer all day long because someone hacked my account for this website. Why anybody would do this, who knows. Fact is, that I was not able to work and write on it for a…
Hello again!
I just finished my book that needs to be reviewed but I will start all this work tomorrow. I am going to watch one of my favorite movies instead: “Conversations with Other Women”. Check out the trailer if you like.
Thank you for reading my blog.
Hello! Today I will share how I meditate, how I found out about it and a little overall information about Yoga. I have been practicing Yoga for about seven years; however, not consistently. I still signed up for classes at Mang’Oh Yoga in New York…
Hello! This is the time of the year when things go crazy. People buy tons of stuff and think it is so important to spend even more money on gifts to make everybody happy. But shouldn’t we just be grateful for what we have and…
Hello!
Today I share my thoughts about electronics (cell phones, iPad, iPod, iwhatever) and how important it is to unplug or stay away from them once in a while. We do live in a world where technology is pretty advanced. Who would have thought fifteen years ago than in 2015 people walk around with smartphones and pay their bills wherever they are, at any time with their phone with their finger? I did not. Another crazy example is that my two-year-old son knows how to swipe- on an iPhone. He just knows. He has his own iPad to watch his shows. I know, you guys, I did not buy him an iPad; it is my old one but I don’t use it anymore because I received a new iPhone. See a pattern here? New, new, new. Faster, better, greater! And this is why it is important to turn off the phone and be unreachable once in a while.
I am guilty as charged here. I do realize how many times I check Facebook, read the news, take pictures, Instagram my way through the day and look for new books and reviews. And this is all okay, too. But to be on the phone or computer all day long is just not okay or healthy. The first thing you reach for in the morning is your phone? Before kissing your partner good morning? Not cool! The first thing you put on the table at a restaurant is mostly your phone? Also not okay! While you wait of the waiter you can check your updates and emails quickly. Or share what you are up to, or where you are and take a picture of the location. And when the waiter comes you put your phone down, order your food and then you are back on it. Sad but true! You might have missed something. I might exaggerating a bit here, but also, really not. And the worst is, if you are on your phone constantly when you are at the restaurant with someone.
Do we have to use these gadgets to the extend we currently do? I don’t think so. And I also do remember the time when I received my first phone:
Remember these? I was so happy and took it everywhere I went – text messaging everybody. And before that? I was fine without a phone. It was all okay. I had my walk-man with tapes and listened to them. But what I did more than anything else was talking to other human beings in person. You met and you talked to each other. Without cell phone “bing”- interruptions. And when we scheduled a movie-date, you actually met at the theater and did not cancel via text message/whatsapp five minutes before. I am getting off on a tangent here. My point is that it is almost a must to unplug and to give yourself a break once in a while. And I am not talking about turning off your phone before you go to bed. I mean, imagine a day without your phone! Crazy, no? Could you handle it? I know how uncomfortable I get when I don’t have wifi for a day or so. We all know Maslow’s hirachy of needs pyramid on basic human needs, right? I would add two more things to it and my husband would agree:
I am trying to unplug from social media, my phone or sometimes even the entire world at least one day a week. But it is difficult, simple because I want to write to my husband to see what is going on with him in Congo. How did we do it before, I wonder. I do need my computer to maintain my website and write daily. However, I could schedule posts and articles in advance to have one day off. We do live in the 21st century and we cannot turn back time, obviously. We do have all these gadgets around so we might as well use them because they are helpful as well. But I think it is important to do everything in moderation and find some sort of balance. What I am working on is: If I play with my son, I play with my son. I am with him 100% and don’t play on my phone all the time. Nothing is THAT important ever. Unless you are a surgeon and need to go to your next brain surgery asap because you are on standby. Or police, or firemen. If I eat, I eat. I don’t want to check my phone while I enjoy a nice dinner at a restaurant. If I read, I read. To simply not be available at times does not make the world around you collapse, you know? It is all okay. Try to turn off your phone for a couple of hours or leave it at home and see how you feel. The other day I was outside with my son and of course I was on the phone checking things while he played. My son comes up to me and says: “C’mon mama. Phone, bag!”, while he grabs my hand with his tiny one and pulls me along to the playground.I would love to hear your thoughts on this one.
Thank you for reading my blog.
Hello! I literally did not know what to write and talk about tonight. Call it writers-block, or simply that I am here in Germany and don’t want to sit somewhere and type along alone while my beloved family sits somewhere else and I could…
“What made something precious? Losing it and finding it.” I have to admit, I am a little late reading this book because it was published in March 2015 and I have heard so much about it. “Everything I never told you” has mostly good reviews but…
You want sun? You need to get away from the cold or wherever you are? I have a great hotel/travel advice for you! Travel to Cancun/Mexico and if you are looking for the absolute luxury and all-inclusive hotel, check in at the Cancun All Inclusive Family Resort Hyatt Ziva. I will now share my review of the hotel which will be very detailed. Stick around if you would like to read.
My family and I are in love with Mexico! The food, the beach, palm trees and the sun – it is just beautiful! You literally arrive and relax! What is so special about this hotel? It is located at the beautiful sands of Punta Cancun and the hotel is the only one surrounded by three sides of the Caribbean Sea. Click here for Pat Metheny’s “Sueño con México” for a nice background music if you would like while you read.
You will experience one of the most breathtaking beach destinations where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the white sand beaches. To swim, snorkel or scuba dive in the crystalline waters of the ocean surrounding the hotel is awesome. Soon you will be able to work out on the rooftop tennis court and basketball court. In just a couple of weeks the dolphin pool will open and you are able to swim with dolphins.
The hotel offers an all-inclusive experience for you and your family
Hotel Safety
Be aware that all beaches in Mexico are federal property. Although they are safe, the resort is not responsible for any incident that may occur. There is a lifeguard on duty; however, swimming is at own risk. Make sure to observe the signs provided by the resort and the color flags indicating the sea conditions
Flags: Black: Beach is closed. Do not swim under any circumstances; Red: Bad conditions. No swimming; Yellow: Swim with caution; Green: Favorable swimming conditions
There are fire alarms throughout the entire hotel and of course in every guest room. See the evacuation plan behind the room door and make sure to locate the signs for exits and fire extinguishers. Ensure to know where the escape routes are! There is a safe available in every room.
Activities & Entertainment
ENTERTAINMENT
The entertainment staff is superb. They offer Volleyball, Aqua Gym, Tennis Court and many other attractions. The hotel offers a show at the hotel’s outdoor theater, located at the main lobby every evening. The show is taking place weather permitting outdoors or indoors in the lobby.
FITNESS CENTER
The hotel offers a fully equipped fitness center with the most modern and complete equipment. From Monday through Saturday, there are fitness instructors available who teach classes like Yoga, Stretching and Pilates. Hotel Management informed me that there will be many more courses in the near future. (Zumba, etc….) I took the Power Yoga/Pilates class at 12pm at the Hotel Gazebo by the beach which was an awesome experience.
KIDZ CLUB
The KIDZ CLUB is awesome and a great place to leave your child for a couple of hours if they are between 4 to 12 years old. The hotel offers supervised activities for kids. If the child is younger you have to accompany them at the Kidz Club at all times. There are many slides and water activities and the KIDZ CLUB entertainment staff does an amazing job with the little guys! There are many toys available that can be used at the KIDZ CLUB only however. Kids can also snorkel with dolphins (as of December/beginning January).
SPA ZEN
Spa Zen invites you to escape into a different world and to experience exotic therapies and treatments. Relax your body and clear you mind while refreshing your spirit. The Service hours are from 8am to 8pm. Keep in mind that you have to schedule an appointment in person and fill out a form about your health conditions. I treated myself to a deep tissue massage and it was hands-down one of the best massages I have had. After your massage you can relax at the SPA’s sauna, steam room, hot tub or the lounge area. Refreshing drinks and snacks are available. The hotel also uses KenetMD Dermatologiest Approved Skincare which are exclusive products with natural ingredients. The Spa ay Hyatt Ziva Cancun is an eco-holistic, Mayan-inspired sanctuary with 13 treatment rooms and 6 palapas on the beach; however, they were still under construction. (Indulge your senses with massage treatments and body rituals with soothing views of the sand, sea and sky. The Spa also features a dual temperature whirlpool tub, steam room, Temazcal steam hut, a sauna, and a cold pool. Relax and refresh with massage waterfalls and a hydrotherapy circuit facing the Caribbean Sea. Get energized at the fitness center, and freshen up your look at the beauty salon. Whatever makes you happy!
WEDDINGS
Hyatt Ziva is an excellent destination for your dream wedding. They offer the most spectacular facilities and areas and the most exquisite comfort and best experts of the wedding branch. The wedding planners work with you to make this romantic moment and unforgettable memory that will last a lifetime. They have a beautiful gazebo by the beach. If you are interested to have your wedding at the Hyatt Ziva, ask for their wedding packages, honeymoons etc. Just ask for the Wedding Coordination Center.
SWIMMING POOLS
The Hyatt Ziva has three pools. The Pool schedule is from 8am to 9pm, and it’s only for use of the hotel guests. After 9pm, the cleaning of the pools begins.
Water Sports offered at the hotel: Diving with professional diving instructors, experience an underwater museum and snorkeling. Pictured below is the Dolphin’s pool and you will be able to swim with dolphins as of late December/beginning of January due to minor construction. Dolphin Therapy will be available – simply contact the concierge.
GIFT SHOPS AND STORES AT THE HOTEL
FINI Jewelry
Established in 1975, FINI jewelry has developed a unique style, denoting luxury and modernity in all its pieces and collections. It has a wide variety of diamonds, gems, semi-precious stones, gold and silver, guaranteeing the best quality, emphasizing the brand’s slogan that characterizes “nothing but the best”.
AMIANI
A single brand boutique for women who seek and love the resort fashion life style, inspired by natural elements such as the ocean, sand and seabreeze. AMIANI collections offer high quality textures, materials and cuts, always focusing on current trends in beach fashion and its characteristics freshness
PIER
Multi department store that reflects the style of a casual and fun beach life. It has a wide variety of categories and products such as boutique, deli, souvenirs and handicrafts. Inspired by the colorful lights of the Californian lifestyle. You can also find items like diapers, kids water/and toys, sunscreen lotions etc. However, what they do not have are swimming diapers, so make sure you bring those for your kids if you need them.
!Si PATRON!
Mexican-style concept store, which refers to the party a the courtyard of an hacienda. Inspired by the colorful Mexican folklore offers a broad variety of products such as souvenirs, gift items, deli and pharmacy
SUNGLASS CHIC
Exclusive sunglass and watch shop with the best brands such as Michael Kors, Versace, Ray Ban, Skagen, Fossil , Bvlgari, Oakley, Maui Jim, among many others
HOTEL BARS & LOUNGES
BAR DEL MAR
Live the experience of the exclusive bar at the relax pool area from 10am – 6pm
DIPS AND SIPS
Located at the main pool. Enjoy delicious cocktails (we loved the Blue Hawaiian) at the aqua bar from 10am – 6pm
PUNTA VISTA
Enjoy the panoramic views from the rooftop as you sip on a delicious cocktail at the exclusive adults-only pool (10am – 7pm) This area is still under construction however.
TRES CERVEZAS
This sports bar has its own brewery! Taste the craft beer created by the hotel’s master brewer while you can enjoy your favorite games on one of the big screens. There are three types of their home-brew: Amber, American Ale and Indian Ale. The bar is open from 4pm to 1am. Even though this is a bar, it is awesome for kids if you want to eat in peace. We have had dinner with our friends and their son twice and it was a great experience. The kids were comfortable playing on the couch and when they get tired they can just curl up and sleep. Win-win!
JUANA MARGARITA
Tequila, a beverage with history that will transport you to live a unique experience throughout the hotel’s professional tequila tasting. There is a Tequila expert available daily! This bar is open from 5pm to 11pm!
SAASIL LOBBY BAR
Enjoy a variety of martinis with an incredible view of Isla Mujeres. This bar is open from 12pm to 12am!
RESTAURANTS
LORENZO’S
With traditional dishes of the Italian cuisine and prepared in a wood oven, this restaurant serves trattoria-style favorites for lunch and an elegant dinner at night. Only open for lunch and dinner! (Lunch: 11am-4pm, Dress code: Casual. Entrance with dry swimsuit is allowed. Women should wear a beach dress and men a t-shirt. Dinner: 6pm to 11pm. Dress code: Elegant! (and yes, my husband did try to get in with his flip-flops: Fail, ha!)
HABANEROS
The best tacos and ceviches I have ever had are served at this amazing restaurant at the beach close to the light house. Besides great food you can enjoy a breathtaking ocean view. This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner! Lunch and Dinner from 12pm to 11pm. Dress code: casual with dry swim suit is allowed. Men should wear a T-shirt, women should wear a beach dress
CHEVY’S DINER
This American classic style diner is the perfect place to grab a burger, fries and a milk shake for lunch at a relaxing and fun atmosphere. Lunch and Dinner: 11am to 10pm. Dress code: casual with dry swimsuit is allowed. Men are required to wear a T-shirt, Women a beach dress
PASTELES
The place is sweet-tooth heaven! Cakes, Candies, Macaroons, Dress code: casual! Men are required to wear a T-Shirt and women a beach dress. Pasteles is open from 12pm to 12am
24 HOURS
Enjoy a cool drink and a snack in this lively lounge open 24 hours a day! Dress code: Casual attire. Men with T-shirt and women with beach dress.
COFFEE HOUSE
A delicious variety of coffee, tea, hot chocolate and smoothies accompanied by a great selection of cookies prepared by the hotels pastry chef! This place is great to read and write with comfortable chairs and nice jazz music! The Coffee house is open from 6am to 11pm. Dress code: Casual, entrance with dry swim suits is allowed. Men is T-shirt and women with beach dress!
LA BASTILLE
Classic and romantic, this elegant serves timeless French cuisine. It is open for dinner and adults ONLY. Dinner from 6pm to 11pm. Dress code for dinner: Elegant! This was the only restaurant we did not test because we traveled with our two-year-old son. However, we found out that you can arrange with the concierge to take care of you children while you eat.
EL MERCADO
With indoor or outdoor terrace service, this gourmet buffet offers a literally endless variety of international dishes to please everyone. This restaurant is open for breakfast with a huge buffet, lunch or dinner! Breakfast buffet from 6.30am to 11.30am. Lunch buffet: 1pm to 5pm, Dress code for breakfast and lunch: Casual entrance with dry swimsuit is allowed. Men are required to wear a T-shirt, women a beach dress. Dinner buffet: 6pm to 10.30pm. Dress code for dinner: Smart casual. For men: dress shorts, dress sandals or flat shoes are allowed. Access is not allowed with sleeveless shirts. Women are asked to wear dress sandals.
THE MOONGATE
Contemporary Asian cuisine with woks, dim sums and teppanyaki tables. These tables are a great show for everyone. Our son enjoyed the fire and cooking show. The Asian style cuisine uses an iron grill to provide a memorable dining experience in front of the guests! Dinner: 5pm to 11pm. Dress code: Elegant
TRADEWINDS
A casual day grill and a classic night steakhouse, this oceanfront venue offers fantastic indoor and outdoor views. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast a la carte: 7am to 11am. Lunch a la carte: 12pm to 5pm. Dress code for Breakfast and Lunch: Casual entrance with dry swim suits is allowed. Men are required to wear a T-shirt. Women a beach dress. Sandals are mandatory!
Dinner a la carte: 6pm to 11pm. Dress code for dinner: Smart Casual.
Meetings and Events
Hyatt Ziva Cancun features 16,000 sq. ft. of meeting, event and reception spaces with ballrooms that accommodate up to 745 guests. The meeting spaces can be divided into 5 separate function. To provide even more flexibility the hotel also provide 7 break out rooms. For outdoor events, the roof deck accommodates up to 650 guests to enjoy the ocean breeze. For any planned meeting, there are event specialists who will coordinate every detail with you, including simultaneous translation services. The time at this amazing hotel went by so quickly, and it was filled with much outdoor and family time, good food and gorgeous weather.
Find this review on Trip Advisor.
Thank you for reading my blog.
Hey Hey! What can you see in this picture? Sixt Car Rental and a cheese pretzel. My crazy life lead us this time to….. GERMANY! We are back home in Coburg for anybody who wants to catch up. On a very short notice my husband…