With Mother’s Day fast approaching on Sunday May 13, Magshop’s magazine subscriptions are the perfect last minute gift idea. Because after all, what mum doesn’t love sitting down with a cuppa and a magazine?

And wouldn’t the ultimate thank you for a lifetime of love, be taking her on a luxury mother and daughter overseas holiday? Swanning through the tropics of Tahiti together, before shopping up a storm in Los Angeles? Sound like the stuff dreams are made of?

Well, Magshop is making this possible for one lucky subscriber. Simply by giving your mum a magazine subscription for Mother’s Day, you go in the draw to win a trip for 2 to Tahiti and Los Angeles including $5000 spending money.

You’ll fly business class with Air Tahiti Nui, luxuriate for 7 nights in deluxe accommodation in Tahiti, spend 6 nights in an overwater bungalow at the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, enjoy 1 night at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort, before jetting over to L.A. for 7 nights at the InterContinental Los Angeles Century City.

With Magshop offering the a diversified range of magazines from Australia’s leading publishers, there’s no shortage of titles to choose from that cater for every mum’s cup of tea.

If your mum is style conscious and takes pride in her home, there’s a comprehensive range of home improvement magazines including Real Living, which is devoted to women who enjoy creating a beautiful ambience in their home, whipping up gourmet meals for their family and shopping for gifts for their loved ones.

For the mum who enjoys the finer things in life and likes staying up to date with the latest interior design trends, think Belle. For the green thumb, ABC Gardening, Australian House & Garden or Burke’s Backyard dispense expert advice that will help her create a stunning and thriving garden.

Or, if she’s crafty then there’s Australian Quilters Companion, Australian Homespun and Australian Knitting. And of course, every mum can always use more recipe ideas to feed the troops with Recipes Plus.

{This post is sponsored by Magshop Mother’s Day gift promotion.}

By Steph Little

The Girl Who Came Home by Hazel Gaynor is a sweet, touching novel centering around a group of Irish emigrants who sailed on the maiden voyage of R.M.S Titanic.

The 100th anniversary of the tragedy has brought the story of Titanic back onto the front pages and into the forefront of conversation in recent weeks. So just what is it that makes this such an enduring, fascinating story one hundred years on: a story that seems to capture hearts and affect people from all walks of life and from all corners of the globe?

Inspired by true events, the author blends fact and fiction to tell the story of the Addergoole Fourteen, a group of Irish emigrants from a small village in County Mayo, who sailed on the Titanic seeking a life of prosperity and opportunity in America. But seventeen year old Maggie Murphy is anxious about the crossing and is distraught to leave behind the man she loves, Seamus.

In Southampton, Harry Walsh boards the ships as a Third Class Steward. He befriends Maggie and the rest of her group and tries to offer his steerage passengers a taste of the First Class life being lived a few decks above them. He helps Maggie send a telegram home to Seamus but when Titanic hits an iceberg on the evening of April 14th, the telegram is left only partially transmitted and Seamus is left confused and completely unaware of the tragedy that has unfolded.

The narrative moves seamlessly from the calm seas of 1912 to 1980’s Chicago, where twenty one year Grace Butler discovers that her great grandmother Maggie is a survivor of the Titanic. The sole confidant to Maggie’s remarkable story, Grace crafts a feature article for a newspaper that not only resurrects her forgotten journalism career, but also brings many more discoveries to light.

There is a lot to enjoy in this novel. The clever narrative techniques using letters, diary entries, telegrams, flashbacks and flashforwards make what is essentially one of the most famous stories of all time unexpected and absorbing. If you’re a fan of romance novels you’ll enjoy the central love story between Maggie and Seamus which is nicely crafted.

We all know how events unfolded on that tragic night: the mistakes that were made and the inexplicable loss of life. But The Girl Who Came Home tells the human story of the tragedy, not just those on board the ship, but the relatives awaiting news back home, and the survivors and their descendants.

This is a sweet and thoughtful retelling of one of our most enduring stories, perfect for readers of romance or historical fiction.

Click here to view exclusively on Kindle, $0.99

Born and raised in the UK, Steph has called Melbourne home for two years and is delighted to live in a city that serves two of her passions so well: coffee and literature. Books have literally taken over her life – she has worked in publishing for the last eight years and in her spare time she reviews and writes for many publications. She enjoys nothing more than discovering a book-shaped package on her doormat.

By Gaynor Alder

Have you bought your mum a present for Mother’s Day yet? I don’t know about you, but I’m going online. Especially since simply by giving your mum a Recipes Plus or a cooking magazine subscription {amongst other magazines} you go in the draw to win the following:

1. Return Business Class Airfares for two people from Sydney-Tahiti-Los Angeles flying Air Tahiti Nui.

•         7 nights luxury accommodation in Tahiti:

•         6 nights stay in an overwater bungalow at the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort.

•         1 night stay in a twin-share room at the InterContinental Tahiti Resort.

2. 7 nights stay in a twin-share room at the InterContinental Los Angeles Century City.
3. $5,000 spending money.

But a trip to LA & Bora Bora isn’t required to lure me to shop online. Not only because I’m time poor, but also because, well, if truth be told, I’m a shopping procrastinator. Which means you’ll often find me breathing into a brown paper bag to abate panic attacks whilst running around Chadstone Shopping Centre on Christmas Eve. I vow to reform my shopping faux pas and be a good little girl this Mother’s Day.

But go shopping on a Saturday after working all week? Too hard. Schlep around the shops for hours whilst trying to find something, and agonising over whether she will like it? Way too hard. Queue up in Myers for hours the day before Mother’s Day? I think I may need a Valium at the mere thought.

Shopping online means I can find the latest sales at the click of my manicured nails, without having to visit every store in the southern hemisphere to compare prices. Easy. Shopping online means that I can send my sisters links to things I think my mum might like and get their knowing approval. Super easy. But best of all? Shopping online means I can peruse stores from the comfort of my chaise lounge, whilst draped in my silk dressing gown. S.O.L.D.

{This post is sponsored by Magshop Mother’s Day gift promotion.}

Image Credit {1}

By Gaynor Alder

In the second article of our 7 Unique & Fabulous Holiday Ideas series, we’re going to the Canadian Rockies.

“But Gaynor, does that mean we’re going off-road? What about those Manolos I picked up in New York the other week? At a steal I might add too.”

Yes it’s true, we’ll be going off-road, but if any destination is going to have me swap my heels for flats, it’s surely going to be the splendor and beauty of the Rocky Mountains. {I certainly don’t sport garb from Mountain Designs for just anyone.}

And we’re going to do it in style with Peregrine Reserve.

I spent a month in this glorious part of the world back in ‘99 during my overseas working holiday. I was desperately seeking the serenity of nature, post three months in the concrete jungle that is London, and Canada’s beauty and undulating landscapes seemed just the ticket.

• Cashmere coat – check.
• Three pairs of stockings per day in lieu of thermal underwear – check.
• Prada sunglasses – check.
• Heels and lip gloss, just in case we stopped at lodges harbouring handsome mountaineers escaping the cold – check.
• Suitcase with wheels instead of backpack – check.
• ‘Flat’ shoes to navigate hilly terrain – debatable as to whether my version of flats could officially take on the great outdoors.

After all, just because I was going off-road, didn’t mean I had to look like I was going off-road, right?

From experience, I can tell you that if you want to really explore this region, you’re going to need expert guidance to navigate you through the amazing spots you would otherwise miss. All you have to do is then enjoy the trip as you wind through snow capped mountains and experience the breathtaking beauty of this stunning region.

Whilst I uncharacteristically traveled with a hop on, hop off tour bus, and stayed in h-h-h-hostels (backpackers budget and all that), you can choose to travel with panache with Peregrine Reserve. See, told you could pack your Max Mara coat, didn’t I?

Peregrine’s Canadian Rockies package will see you walk the Chester Lake trail and take in the views of the surrounding Alpine Meadows. You’ll also take on Burstall Pass within Longheed Provincial Park – it’s an 8km moderate walk, but you’ll have a gourmet banquet and hot tub waiting for you at Mount Engadine Lodge. {No whipping out a bread roll from your backpack and spreading it with your trusty jar of jam on this tour.}

You will venture through the forest past Barrier Lake, to discover the remarkable views of Kanaskiks Valley. Your day walking along Bow Lake in the Banff National Park will reveal the magnificence of the Bow Glacier, before luxuriating in the comfort of Emerald Lake Lodge.

Make sure you have your camera at the ready, as you experience the majesty of Whisky Jack Falls, Emerald Glacier and Yoho Lake. Your final day will see you arrive in the town of Banff, where elk roam the streets like locals.

With its never ending visual eye candy and the spectacular scenery that will stay with you long after you leave, Canada is a definite bucket list destination.

Visit the Peregrine Reserve website to find out more about this and other unique holiday packages around the world.

Image Credist {1, 2}

 1. Clinique Turnaround Concentrate {Spend $60 and receive free shipping, plus Take the Day Off Makeup Remover, 4ml black High Impact Mascara}

2. MOR eboutique {Receive 15% discount online. Use promo code MOR015 – excludes gift sets and sale items. Plus they offer free samples.}

3. Redken {20% off RRP}

4. GHD {$50 off}

1. Narciso Rodriguez For Her {Reduced from $170 to 147.40}

2. Lovely by Sarah Jessica Parker {Reduced from $120 to $69.95}

3. Flora by Gucci {Reduced from $139 to $109.89}

4. Burberry Brit for Women {Reduced from $100 to $84.25}

1. Personalised cards from Moonpig

2. Saba Gift Voucher {20% off Women’s Knits}

3. Myer Gift Voucher

4. Westfield Gift Voucher

Click here for other ideas from our shopping directory of online stores.

By Jacinta Richmond

Apparently there are women out there who get enough shut-eye, eat a balanced diet, guzzle litres of water, maintain regular exercise, stay out of the sun, drink alcohol in moderation and never go to bed without taking their makeup off.

These women are not human. Don’t let them set the standard. Some of us have a life, and fortunately for us, radiant skin, good hair and killer lashes can still be achieved with the help of these babies.

Clinique High Impact Mascara

No woman I know would be caught dead without mascara. Can you imagine what men would think if they saw us without it. “Damn, she’s a bit of alright, but those lashes are way too short”. Yep, that’s exactly what they’d think.

Enter Clinique High Impact Mascara. I love this mascara for dramatic lashes in a flash. Not only does it create maximum volume, but the brush also provides great lash separation. Very important.

Want one? Well, get ready ladies because it’s Clinique’s treat. Yes, that’s right, from 15-29^th April 2012 you can swap your current mascara (any brand, new or used) for a 4 week sample of Clinique mascara for FREE. Absolutely no purchase necessary. Because Clinique are nice like that.

 Almay Get Up and Grow Mascara

Hands up if you’ve tried eyelash extensions? Chances are your real lashes have suffered some damage and it’s time to give them a chance to regroup. This is where Almay Get Up And Grow mascara comes into play.

The anti-breakage, pro-vitamin, extra gentle formula lengthens and strengthens so lashes can grow to their healthiest and longest. This mascara made my lashes super long. If you love length, this mascara is for you. I’m a thickness girl myself. Um, we’re still talking about mascara here, right?

Clinique Turnaround Overnight Radiance Moisturiser

I lathered on this bad boy the other night and I’ve got to tell you, I went to bed 30-something and woke up practically needing ID. This overnight cream really does what the bottle says..

“This radiance-making moisture cream reveals brighter, younger-looking skin overnight. It gently clears away the dulling effects of time and sun damage, and supplies the nourishing moisture fresh young cells thrive on. Skin feels velvety smooth and looks radiant – in the morning, and over time.”

The innovative exfoliating ingredients are gentle yet effective, and deliver maximum brightening and smoothing results with minimal stress to the skin. Trust me. Your skin will look amazing once all those dead skin cells have made tracks. You’re onto a winner with this one.

Clinique Turnaround Concentrate Radiance Renewer

This exfoliating serum instantly creates a luminous-from-within radiance and gently, continually unveils skin that is brighter, healthier and more uniform. Compatible for morning use after the Turnaround overnight cream, or on its own, I can’t say it better than Clinique..

“Radiant skin looks well rested, well nourished, naturally soft and luminous. How you get it is with gentle new-cell turnover. The Clinique Turnaround range reveals the brightest, smoothest, healthiest version of your skin. Eliminates dullness and flaking. Refines texture and helps reverse the effects of past sun damage, reducing the look of pores, lines and uneven skin tone.”

We love that.

bareMinerals makeup

Just quietly, I’m in awe of anyone who actually takes their make-up off before bed when they get home half-pissed after a few drinks. I know, I know, it’s the worst beauty sin in the book; luckily for me, bareMinerals makeup is a formula so pure you can sleep in it.

I’ve always been a liquid foundation girl myself, but this powder foundation buffs on beautifully to provide flawless coverage and a luminous finish. Chemical free and clinically proven to improve the appearance of skin over time.. I’ll sleep in my makeup to that.

Available at Kit Cosmetics

 Olay Regenerist Wrinkle Revolution Complex

I was surprised at the texture of this moisturiser. Completely different to other moisturisers and nothing like the long-standing Olay Total Effects range. Olay describe it as a “cashmere soft, satin finish” and I think that description hits the nail on the head. Light and non-greasy, this cream also contains advanced micro fillers to smooth the skin’s surface. Clever.

Original Mineral Seven Day Miracle Moisture Masque

It’s not often a hairdresser announces my hair is in good nick. Usually they tell me it needs a trim of a good three inches. This once-a-week Miracle Moisture Masque by O&M will leave your hair feeling like silk without weighing it down. Macadamia and Argan oils are the hero ingredients and that gorgeous vanilla bean scent even makes hair wash day enjoyable. Mmmm so good!

 Any wonder the Fellowship for Australian Hairdressing declared this its ‘Best new Product’ winner. I’m declaring it the holy grail.

 Original Mineral Rootalicious Root Lift                 

I hate poker straight hair stuck to people’s heads. I am all about a bit of height at the roots. I like sexy hair. Not neat hair. Sexy hair. Use this product for killer volume. Whip your hair back and forth. Walk it. Work it. Own it.

O&M – you had me at rootalicious.

Image Credit: 1

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jacinta Richmond is an IT Manager by day, recently completing a Master of Business Information Technology degree, however a stereotypical computer nerd, she is not.  At work she is better known for her shoe collection than her IT skills and when she isn’t working, Jacinta loves nothing more than frocking up and swilling a champagne or two at the racetrack.

She adores good hair days, luxury accommodation, picturesque wineries, dining out and swanning about Melbourne’s newest bars, cafes, restaurants and events. Obsessed with trying the latest in beauty, she can often be found lingering at the cosmetic counters of Myer and David Jones, and of course, day spas are her idea of bliss.

By Gaynor Alder

Ladies, it’s time to get your Carrie Bradshaw on, as the first stop in our 7 Unique & Fabulous Holiday series is New York, and what better way to discover the hidden gems and highlights of NYC, than with TV presenter, journalist and radio personality Sami Lukis? And having racked up a gazillion frequent flyer miles both professionally and personally, this uber gorgeous woman sure is match fit when it comes to traveling.

Sami’s hosted ladies only trips to New York are perfect for singles who don’t want to travel all on their lonesome, or with your BFF, or maybe (yes, fess up now) you just want to stalk Sami over shared glasses of vino in a girl crush kind of way. (Nothing funny Sami, we promise.)

Sami’s got plenty of fabulous activities organised for you. The beauty of it all? You can join in when you want, or take off on your own whenever you merry well please. “Sorry Sami, gotta dash. Just spotted a pair of half price Manolos in a shop window.” There’s none of that hectic clock watching bizzo, rounding you up like a herd of little lost lambs as you hop off one bus for another with strict instructions to return at 16:00 hours on Sami’s watch (reminiscent of your misspent youth gallivanting around Europe, or, ahem, one man at a time, one city at a time, on a Contiki tour).

Beauty Master Class at Bloomingdales

So just what fabulous things does Sami have in store for you? Of course you’ll need to pack some ballet flats to partake in some serious shopping at some of the world’s premium outlet malls. (*Cue hysterical squeals of shopping excitement*. Did someone just say designer goods at heavily discounted prices?) You can also ride the Staten Island Ferry and take pics of the iconic Statue of Liberty and take a scenic walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.

You’ll immerse yourself in the excitement and energy of Times Square, Wall Street, Chelsea Market and the High Line, and also tour the World Trade Centre and Grand Central Terminal. No need for tickets to ride this train, as Sami will provide you with a 7 day Metro card so you can whizz around the city as much as you fancy. She’ll also give you a pre paid U.S. sim card with unlimited calls and texts (because, she’s nice like that, and doesn’t want you wasting your precious shopping money on ghastly phone bills).

Lucky you packed those flats then, right?

And when you want to unwind from it all, you can relax with a private Outdoor Yoga class in Central Park, and spend Sunday morning with a Harlem Gospel Choir followed by brunch at Sylvia’s Soul Food Restaurant.

Outdoor Yoga Class in Central Park

But, there’ll also be plenty of time to sashay around the city in your heels. Hit Broadway and see the brand spanking new musical, Ghost. Join foodies in Midtown’s favourite spot Eataly, and finish every night in one of NYC’s hottest restaurants, as you swoon over your purchases and regale over the day’s events with a cocktail in one hand, and a new designer handbag in the other. (Did I mention that you’ll get these at crazy, ridiculous, rug shop closing-down-everything-must-go prices? Oh, yes, that’s right I did. Just checking.)

The 7 day trip also includes all flights, swanky hotels and luxury airport transfers. Sami’s got your back and is available 24/7 should you need any help or can’t find your way back to your hotel. She can also tailor personalised trips in conjunction with TravelEdge and NY-based experts. Is there nothing this woman can’t do? Seriously.

For more information about pricing, dates and availability, please email sami@samilukis.com or visit her website here. You can also stalk her on Twitter and follow her on Facebook. Go on, you know you want to.

By Steph Little

“Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”

Leroy ‘Satchel’ Page

So opens the clever, cheeky and fantastically funny third novel from lovable beauty expert and writer-extraordinaire, Zoë Foster.

Abby Vaughn is has it all: she’s thirty-something, gorgeous, successful (having built her own empire – promotions company, Allure) and completely together. That is, until she meets sexy 22-year-old Marcus and spends a whirlwind night with him.

Despite much protesting, best friends Mads and Chelsea realise Abby is way more into this charming young man than she wants to admit. But the age gap is just too big. Right?

So Abby throws herself into her work as a distraction method. It’s time to bring Allure into the 21st century, revamp the website and cull some of her staff so she can take some much-needed time out and travel around Europe. But on the day of the meeting with the new web agency, who should appear but savvy, young web developer, Marcus. Aside from code and HTML, he knows exactly what he wants and he takes it upon himself to prove that age is irrelevant where the heart is concerned. Abby and Marcus are perfectly suited in so many ways but she just can’t get her head around the age difference. Shouldn’t she be with someone more settled, more experienced… her own age?

Meanwhile, Abby’s two best friends are falling apart and are in desperate need of a mediator. Gorgeous Chelsea is frustrated with her flashy but secretive lover, who won’t let her anywhere near his house – what does he have to hide? And quirky, lovable Mads is struggling through rounds of unsuccessful IVF treatment. When Chelsea announces she has fallen pregnant unexpectedly, heartbroken Mads finds it a bitter pill to swallow.

Since hiring amazing new manager, Charlie, business is booming at Allure and Abby can finally take a break and travel around Europe. But it’s not just carbs, Dolce & Gabbana and gelato she discovers there: there’s a small matter of Alessandro… the perfect distraction from the sexy 22-year-old back home. But is an older, Italian man really what Abby wants? Can Abby piece together a broken friendship? And what is Charlie really getting up to back at the office?

There is much to love in this fabulous slice of chick-lit. Zoë Foster strikes the perfect balance between relatable, fun characters and a clever plot that keeps you reading up into the night. I thought the friendship between the three girls was lovely and touching and their dialogue is peppered throughout with Zoë’s trademark wit and sass. Towards the end, things were tied up oh-so-neatly a little too quickly but if you’re looking for a delicious dollop of chick-lit to lose yourself in, The Younger Man will not disappoint. Check out Zoë’s previous novels Air Kisses and Playing the Field for a triple dose of smart, romantic fiction.


Click here to view book on Booktopia (and save 20% of RRP)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Born and raised in the UK, Steph has called Melbourne home for two years and is delighted to live in a city that serves two of her passions so well: coffee and literature. Books have literally taken over her life – she has worked in publishing for the last eight years and in her spare time she reviews and writes for many publications. She enjoys nothing more than discovering a book-shaped package on her doormat.

Looking for something new and exciting to do on your next holiday? Don’t want to go on the same old tours everyone else does? Looking for personalised luxury accommodation?

Follow The Modern Woman’s Survival Guide every Thursday over the upcoming weeks, to be introduced to some fabulous and unique holiday experiences.

1. We’re going to New York with Sami Lukis

2. Cycle through Provence with Peregrine Adventures

3. Stay in homes away from home with Roomorama whilst traveling the world

4. Discover the secret Melbourne whilst luxuriating in the newly refurbished Marriott Hotel

5. Visit the Grace Kelly exhibition in Bendigo

6. Personalise your room at the Grace Hotel in Sydney

7. Stay at the stunning Summer House in Byron Bay with Moroccan inspired decor and rainforest hinterland views

Bon voyage darlings …

Image Credit: 1

Waterfront dining, talk of the town and al fresco delights, here are just a few of Melbourne’s best.

Chin Chin

If I had a dollar for every time I heard a Melbournian mention Chin Chin, I’d have like $34 dollars. Yep, this place continues to be one of the hottest restaurants in town, and rightfully so.  Before you get all “been there, done that” on me, I bet you didn’t know Chin Chin changed their menu just last week?

Haven’t been? Then form an orderly queue folks; Chin Chin’s no booking policy often means a wait for a table at peak times, but this is where GoGo Bar comes into play. Hidden in the basement, this dark cocktail bar dishes up amazing seasonal cocktails that you can sip on whilst you wait. Don’t leave GoGo without trying the amazing Thai Basil martini.

Refreshed? Good. Peckish? Great. Get ready for Chin Chin’s 9 course degustation style menu. It’s worth the wait. Serving mind-blowing Thai cuisine, each course is a flavour sensation. The melt-in-your-mouth massaman coconut braised beef curry was a particular favourite as was the palm sugar ice cream sundae with salted honeycomb and lime jelly. Wearing my skin tight leather pants was a huge mistake. Of course you may choose to stray from Chin Chin’s 9 course offering and order individual menu items. But hold strong. You’re better than that.

http://chinchinrestaurant.com.au/

125 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Waterfront Station Pier

Located on Port Melbourne’s waterfront, the elegant cushion-strewn terrace provides a relaxing oasis, perfect for a rosé-fuelled long lunch on the water’s edge.  Specialising in seafood, try the two-course lazy Sunday lunch consisting of a seafood tasting plate followed by a Spanish paella for two. Now, that’s what I’m talking about.

http://www.waterfrontstationpier.com.au/

1 Station Pier, Port Melbourne

The Waiting Room

Positioned in the lobby of Crown Towers, and part of The Rockpool group, The Waiting Room offers a bar and small plate menu in opulent and glamorous surrounds.  Choose a table at the front if people-watching is your caper, or opt for the candle lit cocktail lounge inside.  Try the pulled pork and green salsa taco. Or maybe the peanut, caramel and chocolate ganache tart. With a menu that includes mini hot dogs, the bloke in your life will be content in this place too. Or why not gather the girls for high tea?

http://www.twrbar.com/

Crown Complex, Southbank

Ichi Ni Izakaya

Ichi Ni offers a Japanese tapas style menu in a hip, casual and lively dining atmosphere located opposite St Kilda’s Port Phillip Bay.  Select a private both, perch at the sushi bar or enjoy the outdoor decking and seaside air.  This is how it’s done.

http://www.ichini.com.au/

12 The Esplanade, St Kilda

Mamasita

Put all prejudice against Mexican food aside. This is no Taco Bill. With a menu designed to share, a visit to Mamasita is no ordinary food experience. This place dishes up some of the best tostadas, tacos and quesadillas outside of Mexico. The food here is truly amazing. Similar to Chin Chin, there are no bookings. Worth the wait? You bet.

http://www.mamasita.com.au/

Level 1, 11 Collins St, Melbourne

Sarti

Tucked away in a laneway, the rooftop at Sarti is one of my favourites. Position yourself under the covered terrace, take a pew in the open air courtyard or enjoy the restaurant indoors. Sarti boasts an ever changing, imaginative, award winning modern Italian menu. My quail risotto was to die for, or perhaps the fried goats cheese with honeycomb, black olives and ‘marmellata di limoni’ from the new menu will have your mouth watering. Choice.

http://www.sartirestaurant.com.au/

6 Russell Place, Melbourne

The Atlantic

The Atlantic restaurant is a dramatic and very sexy space offering a glamorous fine dining experience, dishing up fresh seafood from ocean to plate.  I went against the grain and visited Atlantic’s Oyster Bar for dessert. The passionfruit cheesecake was divine and the salted caramel served with coffee changed my life (Oh yes, the diet’s going well thanks.) Kick your night off with a cocktail in The Den or finish your evening with a nightcap on the chaise. Exquisite.

http://theatlantic.com.au/

Crown Promenade, Southbank

Image Credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jacinta Richmond is an IT Manager by day, recently completing a Master of Business Information Technology degree, however a stereotypical computer nerd, she is not.  At work she is better known for her shoe collection than her IT skills and when she isn’t working, Jacinta loves nothing more than frocking up and swilling a champagne or two at the racetrack.

She adores good hair days, luxury accommodation, picturesque wineries, dining out and swanning about Melbourne’s newest bars, cafes, restaurants and events. Obsessed with trying the latest in beauty, she can often be found lingering at the cosmetic counters of Myer and David Jones, and of course, day spas are her idea of bliss.

When the Barge brothers created LL Wine and Dine they did it with an unsurpassable passion for food and wholehearted dedication to the customer experience, which is clearly evident in the sublime service, mouth watering modern Asian menu and unique decor that pays homage to their heritage.

Entering the bar tucked away in Kings Cross, Sydney, I was immediately smitten with its ambience which is reminiscent of a hidden Melbourne laneway bar. As a Melbournite who wakes up daily, wooed by the secrets my city has to offer, LL Wine and Dine Bar has secrets of its own that served to intrigue me in equal measures. Yes, delve a little bit deeper and all is revealed, for LL Wine and Dine has a story that is sure to captivate you as it did me, with clues to its former identity strategically placed throughout.

Come on, tell us, tell us more you say. Okay, but promise you won’t paint the wrong picture in your head when I tell you that it used to be an adult bookshop and an illegal ’60s casino. Yes, that’s right a place selling, ahem, (amongst other things I am sure) magazines of scantily clad women. As the brothers renovated the site, it became all Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe, as they discovered secret doorways and ladders in the roof that revealed the true identity of the premises they had chosen to occupy.

Click here to read full review in Onya Magazine

B

“Sydney, 1963… The mad men in advertising are about to meet their match.”

The Freudian Slip is a highly entertaining debut novel about three very different woman trying to make their way in the man’s world of advertising in the swinging sixties. Written by former senior advertising exec Marion von Adlerstein, this is Mad Men meets Paper Giants meets real life.

It’s Sydney, 1963. Women wear princess-line dresses, perfectly matched handbags and seamed stockings. They’re defined by their vital statistics and the school they went to, but at advertising agency Bofinger, Adams, Rawson & Keane (BARK) two talented women are breaking that mould.

Our first leading lady is Bea, a chic and successful copywriter in her early thirties. Bubbling over with raw talent, Bea is struggling to move on from her failed marriage. Next up is Desi (Desiree), a beautiful heiress who is making waves as one of the only female television producers in Sydney.

Desperate to join this cast of stars is young secretary Stella. She’s ambitious and efficient but lacks poise and raw creative talent. But that’s not to say she won’t turn on the charm, flattery and even plagiarism in a bid to get ahead. And she succeeds. At least, for a while…

There are two things that I loved about this book. First is the clever depiction of a Sydney familiar yet very different to the city we know and love. One conversation in a bar sounds like this:

‘We will soon have an opera house that will astonish the world.”

“Soon? Never! It’s too advanced for the petty officials in charge of it. It’ll never be finished. A gigantic white elephant.”

Meanwhile, Paddington is a slum, de-facto relationships are disapproved of and a woman pursuing a career is a rarity. And I got such a kick out of these historical details.

Secondly, I loved the way that author Marion von Adlerstein depicts the world of advertising so accurately and that’s simply because she has lived it. Her biography reads like a novel itself. She was born in Bankstown during the Great Depression in the 30s. Despite showing academic promise, Marion was sent to a domestic science school to learn “cookery, stenography and how to scrub a bathroom.”

After working as a junior in an ad department, Marion sailed to London in 1957 and worked as a copywriter for seven years. Before returning to Australia, Marion would rack up many successful campaigns, an affair with a married man and then divorce.  It’s this life experience that creates such a strong feeling of authenticity in The Freudian Slip; whether it’s the little details – the frocks, the brand names and the restaurants; or the mechanics of putting together a client product strategy, you feel like you are living it.

If you loved Paper Giants, or you’re obsessed with Joan and Don then it goes without saying that this is the perfect read for you. Full of dashing men, smart women and beautiful frocks, what’s not to love?

Available to buy now, $32.99.

Click here to view The Freudian Slip on Kindle, $21.96

By Gaynor Alder

First Published on Flight Centre Travel Blog

“Flight Centre guest blogger Gaynor Alder is introducing you to five places she always takes her guests when they visit her in Melbourne. Gaynor has told us about the wonderful Spice Market and now we hear about suggestion number 2, the mouthwatering Spanish sensation Movida. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Take notes, this lady sure knows her stuff when it comes to her beloved Melbourne.” – Samantha Locke, Flight Centre

Nestled in one of Melbourne’s famous graffiti covered laneways, there’s a reason it can take you months to get into this Melbourne institution. Known as “the spirit of Spain in the heart of Melbourne”, people happily queue for hours to indulge in their Spanish tapas and fine wines.

Tapas is perfect for travellers who want to sample the best a restaurant has to offer in a new city. Try Movida’s Spiced Chicken Escabache Tapa on crisp Crouton, Pyrenees wet roast Lamb Breast with Fino and Paprika sauce, Slow cooked Duck Shank with Hazelnuts, Raisins and Onions or their Salt Cod & Potato Fritters with Lemon Emulsion for a truly sublime tapas experience

Of course, “when in Rome”, it would be sacrilege not to try one of their Spanish wines, but Movida also has an extensive wine list with local and other international wines to accompany your meal.

Movida’s culinary expertise is so revered that there have been two cook books released in their honour. “Movida: Spanish Culinary Adventures” and “Movida Rustica: Spanish Traditions and Recipes”.

“It makes perfect sense that there should be an interplay between the cuisines of Australia and Spain. From the similarity of the climate, to the laid back lifestyle and the pleasure we take from the company of friends and family.” – LifestyleFood.com.au

Stuck for a Valentines’ gift idea for your man? No time to go shopping? Well, The Modern Woman’s Survival Guide has got your cupid’s ass covered. Here are some fabulous ideas that are all available online. Just get your manicured nails at the ready and clickety click on the purple links. Easy. We like that.

1. iPad 2 from Vodafone

2. Steve Jobs autobiography $17.49 on Amazon.

3. iTunes voucher from the Apple store

4. iPhone 4 with Siri from Vodafone

5. Books from Book Depository (free worldwide shipping)

6. Discounted books from Amazon.

7. Personalised Valentine’s Day cards from Moonpig. Only $5.95, printed and posted the same day.

8. Buy a Wine Selectors subscription and have wine sent straight to his door.

9. Magazine subscription from iSubscribe.

10. Choose from over 2500 unique experiences from RedBalloon.

11. A giftcard from Westfield. or shop their 100 online stores with free delivery.

12. Get him a DVD subscription from Quickflix (with the first month free).

13. Clinique For Men

14. Ben Sherman shorts

15. Calvin Klein Underwear

16. Wallet from Saba

17. Tie from Saba

18. Redken for Men haircare at discounted prices

19. View the complete Saba for Men collection

By Michelsen Linn (a.k.a. The Girl in Oslo)

After leaving her heart in Melbourne during her travels as a 20 something, The “Girl in Oslo” returned to her homeland. Whilst she dreams of returning to the hidden laneways, culture and creativity of Melbourne, she has fully immersed herself back into life in Norway. Here she shares with us her favourite things to do and see. – Ed.

The great thing about Oslo is how very small it is compared to other capitals around the world, which means you can practically walk everywhere. But I also recommend that if you choose to visit, that you buy a subway/tram pass for the week and really do some exploring.

Over the years my lovely city has changed into a much more vibrant and pulsating place to live, than it was when I grew up 30 minutes outside the city center (the girl was born in Bærum).

Here are  few links for places I love in Oslo.

ASTRUP FEARNLEY MUSEUM

I am a huge fan of this museum when they show the Norwegian painter Odd Nerdrum and Andy Warhol.

EGER SHOPPING MALL

Eger carries designer goods that you normally don’t get from other places.

CAFE SOR

Enjoy great food and coffee at Cafe Sor in an atmosphere that is really chilled with some great DJ’s.

BLAA OSLO

If you want to go clubbing or listen to a free Sunday concert visit, Blaa Oslo. The vibe is great and you will meet many different people from all walks of life.

EDGEBLOOM 

I would like to introduce everyone to a Norwegian lifestyle brand Edgebloom, owned by two somewhat young men, Joakim Sellberg and Adrian Leversby.

It’s philosophy is that one`s potential aptitude for attaining a great lifestyle is limitless, and if a person dares to think differently they can influence others. Their core values are to live sustainably in balance and simplicity.

They sell everything from shoes to sweaters for both her and him. As far as thoughts behind the designs, Joakim and Adrian describe the clothes as being simple and elegant with a deeper significance. “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication says Leonardo da Vinci, and we take his word for it”.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michelsen Linn a.k.a. The Girl in Oslo, is a 30 something girl that works with computers day, and night. She left her heart in Melbourne as a 20 something, and has been wanting to go back ever since. She is a doer and not a waiter. Lover of books and photography. She believes that everything in life depends on one thing. YOU. If you’re traveling to Norway or want to discover more about Oslo, make sure you visit the Girl In Oslo‘s blog.

Call me Grinch, but I’m not a fan of the obligatory gift giving that comes with Christmas and birthdays and don’t even get me started on the cheesiness of Valentine’s day.

I much prefer to give gifts at random “I saw this and thought of you” moments.

The Awl and The Huffington Post both ran articles on this last month, and I couldn’t agree more.

Let’s face it, we’re adults. Don’t we already have everything we need anyway? If we want something, we generally buy it. I mean an Aston Martin would be very nice (thanks Pup), but you’re not typically going to find the keys to one of those wrapped up on February 14.

Does anyone hold off on a purchase, drop hints and sit around waiting until Christmas or their birthday? Doesn’t that ruin the whole surprise anyway?

This is what makes gift giving under the pressure of a mandatory occasion so difficult. Agree?  Not to mention circling for a parking space, crowded shopping centers, slow walkers, long queues and “unspecified item in the bagging area”. Hideous.

Well, take a load off sugar, because here are some gifts for any time of year and you can buy them online. Genius.

Gifterati

Don’t you hate it when you’re rushing to be ready on-time, in the middle of dinner or giving birth and your phone beeps. A message! Who could it be? Half the time it’s a shop you went to five years ago or Facebook letting you know someone that’s practically a stranger has commented on a photo or sent you a friend request. Whatever.

A Facebook message from a friend sending you a gift from Gifterati? That’s different.

Gifterati allows you to post gifts on your friends Facebook walls which they will then receive in their real-life mail box a few days later. You don’t even need to know their address as they will be prompted for a delivery address as part of the process. Clever.

Gifterati operates throughout Australia and offers a variety of gifts including chocolates, wine, candles, beauty products, donations, adventures and magazine subscriptions.

Estee Lauder Resilience Lift

At 46, Elizabeth Hurley looks amazing and I’m tipping she knows a thing or two about skincare. Yep, I’ll have what she’s having and I’m not referring to Warney here.

Enter the Estee Lauder Resilience Lift collection. Firming, sculpting and radiance enhancing, what’s not to love?  I have the eye cream and this product delivers. It fades dark circles and nourishes and blurs the look of fine lines making the eye area more luminous. The only thing I need to worry about now is – where the hell did I leave my proof of age ID?

Visit the Estee Lauder online store. They are offering free shipping and free samples with every order during January 2012.

MOR e-Boutique

With packaging that demands prime position on bathroom shelves you’ll be sitting pretty with this gift.

Select from luxurious body butters, candles, hand creams, lip glosses, triple milled soaps and Mor (get it). All of them sweet-smelling and fragrant. Oh, as if you aren’t sweet enough sugar buns.

Enjoy free samples with orders over $20 and they also offer 30% discount for the month of each customers birthdays. Ace.

Visit the MOR eboutique and receive 15% discount. Use promo code MOR015 – excludes gift sets and sale items.

Groupon

The perfect gift for anyone who, like me, loves to swan about. Groupon offers new and novel deals every day featuring restaurants, leisure, spa, beauty and sport, all at drastically discounted prices.

Yep, you can relax in an exclusive day spa or enjoy a three-course meal for a fraction of the usual price and the best part is, shopping with Groupon Australia is stress free and uncomplicated.

Gift vouchers allow the recipient to select the Groupon offer of their choice and all you have to do is buy, print and give!

WIN!

For your chance to win one of two Groupon gift vouchers, simply leave a comment below with a unique gift idea.

*First prize is valued at $50 and second prize $20.

Entries close on 16th February 2012.

 ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jacinta Richmond is an IT Manager by day, recently completing a Master of Business Information Technology degree, however a stereotypical computer nerd, she is not.  At work she is better known for her shoe collection than her IT skills and when she isn’t working, Jacinta loves nothing more than frocking up and swilling a champagne or two at the racetrack.

She adores good hair days, luxury accommodation, picturesque wineries, dining out and swanning about Melbourne’s newest bars, cafes, restaurants and events. Obsessed with trying the latest in beauty, she can often be found lingering at the cosmetic counters of Myer and David Jones, and of course, day spas are her idea of bliss.

For those of us who have visited or lived in the UK, we all know a number of things:

1. Standing on the right side of the elevator in the underground is a crime punishable by death.

2. Sharing an apartment with 13 other people in London will cost you more per month than the Italian national debt.

3. Marks and Spencer’s fabulous food hall is the only place to shop for gourmet take home meals.

But, there are so many more reasons why Marks and Spencer (or ‘Marks and Sparks’ as it is affectionately known) is an institution in the United Kingdom. Think exclusive designers like Conran tailoring homewares for the high street, style experts keeping you abreast of key fashion trends and new season must haves, tips from wine connoisseurs on M&S TV and sublime recipe ideas to bring out the Nigella in you.

For those of you in the UK, well I have to say is – you lucky doers. Because you can not only swan in and out of their stores, but you can also shop online with free UK delivery for orders over 30 pounds.

Do not fret, for those of you have returned to the motherland after years of living in the UK and are still pining for Marks and Spencer, you can still order from them online and keep abreast of the latest in UK fashions, homewares, gifts and sale items. Because we may not miss jostling for a spot on the train as though the carriage contained a sandwich and none of the passengers had eaten for a month, but we sure do miss the cutting edge designs and clothing.

Or, you can send your friends gifts overseas without having to pay exorbitant amounts in postage and the hassle of worrying whether your parcel will get through customs in one piece. M&S deliver to 80 international destinations, making it quick and easy to send a gift abroad to loved ones from Marks & Spencer.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching on February 14th, why not I say I love you by sending flowers, chocolates or gifts from Marks and Spencer?

Click here to visit the range of Valentine’s gifts and flowers on offer from Marks & Spencer.

Click here for delivery information within the UK.

Click here for delivery information for international deliveries.

By Mala McAlpin

The Modern Woman’s Survival Guide invites you all to a night out with artist and designer Colin Heaney as he showcases his latest collections of exquisite fashion, resort wear and homewares, brought to you by Albert Park’s new concept boutique (or gallery, as the creaters prefer to think of it as) The Nomad Project. Enjoy a glass of sangria as you are captivated by Heaney’s gorgeous collaboration of exotic colours and prints, and not only experience his works but meet the artist himself.

Colin Heaney’s artworks span over a much larger field than just fashion or homewares. Previously, his main fields of choice were 3D sculptures and furniture, including successfully designing his own dream Byron Bay home. Other art medias that Heaney has dabbled in include glass, metals, wood, stone, resin and wax, and his unique and inspiring artworks can be found all over the world. Colin’s resort wear collection, which he began in 2009, has made it’s way into high end resorts and boutiques in the lavish Bahamas, the sunny beaches of Miami other exotic and luscious locations worldwide.

Heaney’s fashion collection includes a wide variety of luxury silk Kaftans, headbands and scarves, glass and silk jewellery, swimwear, leggings and dresses. Each masterpiece is intricately designed and crafted as one highly unique piece of wearable art. Colin’s ingenious print designs are also completely his own works. He simply uses images of his world-renowned glass creations and digitally remasters them to create wonderful and extraordinary fashion. Heaney’s homewares collection will transform any home and suit any decor, including a wide variety of satin-feel, durable cushions, glass statues and goblets. Colin even does prints and gift cards (is there anything this man can’t do?!).

Colin Heaney’s artworks are a true phenomenon and inspiration, and his breathtaking exhibition will be more than worth a visit.

We at the Modern Woman’s Survival Guide would be thrilled for all to attend, as it’s sure to be, in all senses of the word, a very colourful evening. Hope to see you there!

Colin Heaney

The Nomad Project(Host)

First Published in Onya Magazine, January 12 2012

When seeking a bar destination in Sydney, it’s not often that you have to go off the beaten track – for there are a myriad of bars on the city streets that you can traipse into with your Manolo Blahniks and order a gin and tonic. But, if you’re searching for something different, something that beckons you away from the bright city lights with its style, sophistication and substance, then I suggest you seek out the award winning Eau De Vie, hidden at the back of the Kirketon Hotel in Darlinghurst.

The owners describe Eau-de-Vie as an intimate, dimly lit, jazz infused speakeasy created for the discerning bon vivant, that transports it guests back to a forgotten era where great service, cocktails, tommy guns and good times were king. Our Hendricks Tea Party was no exception. Served in high tea style in a Victorian tea pot, myself and my guests were treated to a gin cocktail inspired by the owner’s time from their summer in London. Not only were our drinks expertly mixed by Barry our bartender, we were also impressed with the smooth and seamless service, sumptuous lounges and paramount dedication to quality. Nothing was too much trouble.

Read the full article in Onya Magazine.

By Steph Little

“Ever wondered what really goes on behind the slick facade of the PR world? Strictly Confidential will knock your Manolos off!” Gemma Crisp, Editor of Cleo

Strictly Confidential is the hot debut novel from Sweaty Betty PR founder and Sydney socialite Roxy Jacenko. It’s a fun, fresh read that lifts the lid on the inner secrets of the PR world – the good, the bad, and the downright glamorous.

Jasmine Lewis is a smart young publicist at Wilderstein PR in Sydney. Desperate to get her foot firmly on the PR worlds’ cutthroat career ladder, Jazzy Lou (as she’s known) does the office coffee runs, the 5am starts and even her crazy boss Diane Wilderstein’s dry-cleaning pickups. So far, so Devil Wears Prada.

Then one morning Jazzy Lou gets a 3.30am wake up call – superstar client Raven has fallen off the wagon in a Kings Cross nightclub, there are paparazzi clamouring over each other to get a picture of the star and it’s down to Jazzy Lou to clean up the situation, whatever it takes. But the next morning she’s summoned into Diane’s office and her PR dream is over. Or is it?

Luckily for Jazzy Lou, events conspire to help her pick up the pieces and set up her own PR agency, Queen Bee PR. But even then a whole new world of nightmares get in the way: impossible clients; man trouble; dangerously high stress levels and an unexpected stint in hospital; deceptive employees and even more deceptive former bosses.

Following a monumental PR disaster at the Coco Man of the Year Awards, Jazzy Lou has one last chance to pull things together at Australian Fashion Week. Can she save the day, her career and her reputation?

Now let’s be clear – this book isn’t going to win any literature prizes. It’s full of stereotypes and clichés, and it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to predict exactly how the plot is going to pan out. But the characters are good fun and if you’re interested in the fashion world you’ll get a kick out of the glamorous setting.

The book also delivers on its promise of being a fun, fast read, absolutely jam-packed full of gossip. And sometimes in life, we all need a book like this. If you’re able to get over the slightly annoying ‘PR’ dialogue being thrown around all over the place (OMG! Dah-ling! That’s amaze!) there’s much fun to be had guessing which of the stories are true and which of the celebrities are based on real-life clients at Sweaty Betty PR.

And it’s impossible not to draw the comparisons between Jazzy-Lou and Roxy Jacenko herself: the high-flying career and cutthroat business tactics, the high profile boyfriend and the enviable designer wardrobe.

Strictly Confidential is the perfect light entertainment for fans of Gossip Girl and Sex and the City.  And stay tuned for a rumoured reality TV show set in the Sweaty Betty offices!

Available to buy now, $24.99. Also available on Kindle, $9.99