Sunday, 23 June 2013

Lancôme Paris Travel Chic Evening Makeup Pouch- Golden Edition Review

Lancôme Paris Travel Chic Evening Makeup Pouch- Golden Edition is limited edition make up on-the-go set that you will surely fall in love with. The classy, expensive packaging swept me off my feet instantly and I just fell in love with it! What’s more, this was a gift from dear hubby on his way back home- thank you so much for this J


Name: Lancôme Paris Travel Chic Evening Makeup Pouch- Golden Edition


Price: € 64.30


Availability: Hubby picked it up from the Hellenic Duty Free on his way back home J

Here’s a closer look at the beauty- no wonder I fell in love with the thing instantly! 


A lovely dull golden pouch with the little beauties tucked inside neatly!


You have 6 eye shadows, one lip gloss, one lipstick, one blush, compact, mascara along with a small, but really of a good quality blusher brush, a cute lip brush and a sponge applicator for the eye shadows. You have a large, high quality mirror on the other side- that will aid application of the products on the go.

My take on the product

In a word, this product is compact and extremely useful. I always carry it with me while I am traveling! The eyeshadows are just amazing and pigmentation is superb. 


What makes it unique is that the eyeshadows are versatile- you can use them to pop-up your eye or you can create the sultry, smoky eyes without any hassle. 

As you can see from the swatches, the shadows are superbly pigmented and the texture is soft and smooth with nil fall out. 



There is absolutely no fall out. When applied on top of a primer- (I use the MAC eye primer), it stays put for 10 hours- and that is the maximum that I have kept it on. In the summers I have noticed it starts to fade off after 7-8 hours, which is still ok for me.


You can see for yourself, the colors are too good- you have everything from a highlighter to shimmery black- that will help you create the smoky eye in minutes. The glitter in the black eye shadow shows up really well, but is smooth and does not travel, so you will not end looking like Christmas tree with glitter all over your face!

Lip Gloss and LipStick

The lip gloss is of a good quality and stays for almost 3 hours on me, without food, however, it does not show very well on my pigmented upper lip. (For ref, I am NC40). I prefer using the gloss on top of a lipstick.


The lipstick is more useable for me and the color payoff is good. The lipstick stays for almost 5 hours on me, which is pretty good and also leaves a tint behind. The quality is smooth and buttery and glides smoothly on lips.


Just a word of caution, it accentuates dry and flaky lips, so you have to exfoliate well before applying. The lip brush is cute and pretty functional, though I would prefer to carry my normal lip brushes.   

This is how the gloss and the lipstick look in natural daylight.


Blush

Super pigmented, the blush is peachy coral shade- great for day wear. It’s pigmented and a dream to blend and with a primer on, it lasts almost the entire day! No glitter, it is an absolute matte finish However, my camera does not do justice to the beauty of the shade- I had real trouble clicking this pic!


Here’s it on my hand- unblended


Compact

Another insanely pigment product, I love its texture. Sadly, there is only one shade that comes with the travel chic pouch. It is lighter for my NC 40 skin tone, so I have not used it much, except for once or twice. But, interestingly, I did not look white and caked up! There is also a small sponge like applicator- yes, it is handy! However, it blends well and photographs well too J


Mascara

It’s really thoughtful on part of Lancôme to include mascara. 


The mascara brush is of a high quality and it happens to be a long staying product. It is good to thicken up the lashes, though I have not noticed much lengthening.


You will need a proper eye makeup remover to remove the mascara. I have tried removing it with baby oil, and works out just fine!

The Brushes

The set comes with 3 cute little brushes, a blusher brush, one lip brush and a sponge eyeshadow applicator.


I find the blusher brush OK to use, the bristles are super soft and of a high quality, only it’s small. I have washed the brush as well; there is almost nil fall shedding. The lip brush is extremely handy and picks up the right amount of color. The eye shadow sponge is something I don't like, with this price tag, they could have easily given eyeshadow brushes!

Overall Verdict

In short, it is a great product to have. I am just in love with it. Convenient for the beauties always on the go!


Yays

·         lovely collection of eye shadow colors
·         super pigmentation
·         long staying
·         useable lip colors
·         sober blush color

Nays

·         Availability is a problem, though the Duty Frees have it
·         Expensive

Brownie Points

You can remove the makeup trays and the mirror inside and use the pouch as a clutch- it will jazz up your evening party attire instantly and turn many envious heads (or eyes) for sure J


Yayyy…..way to go Lancôme J

Overall

Yes, a great product from the French luxury cosmetic brand, which will take care of your makeup needs while on the move.

Sunday, 16 June 2013

Beauty on the Go

5 Face Packs to Make You Glow during Your Holidays- Made from Vegetables and Fruits  

Panicking on how to take care of your skin while on the go? Don’t worry here is help at hand! Trouble-free to use and superb for your face, the natural face packs are the order of the day. The best way to a glowing dermis is simply by investing 5 to 10 minutes of your time- and you will glow on your holidays too!

What’s more, it’s all available fresh in the local farmers market or the supermarket or even right in your hotel room! Free from all harmful chemicals, pure, natural and inexpensive as well, these remain one of the oldest ways of preserving the youthfulness of your skin. Be radiant and rosy on your vacation.

Occupying the most important position on your wish list, glowing skin is easy to get right from what you have for your grub. Your love affair with fruits and vegetables can start with your skin. Right from dealing with the dulling flakes to combating the effects of pollution, being natural is the way to go.

10 Minutes to a Mashed Banana and Honey Face Pack

Simple and easy, all you will need is two teaspoon of honey and a ripe mashed banana and you are all set to glow in 10 minutes. Honey is famous as a moisturizer and will brighten up dry dull skin in no time at all. Simply apply the paste all over your face and neck generously and let it sit for some time. Wash it off with cold water and if you have large pores simply rub some ice cubes on your face while removing the pack. Smooth and glowing skin and a completely new you when you look in to the mirror the next time.

Papaya Face Pack

Under-sung and simply understated, you will be stunned to see what the enzymes of a ripe papaya can do for your skin. Great for balancing and neutralizing the harsh effects of pollution on skin, it is a fabulous choice for dry taut skin. Papain in papaya help cell renewal as it is a natural enzyme. Tested over time, you are sure to have a lovely glowing skin in no time at all. Chafe the ripened papaya in circular motion on your skin and keep for 10- 15 minutes and then wash off.

Tangy Tomato Face Pack for your Skin

Loaded with Vitamin C and A, rubbing the tomato peels on your skin will help you fight the signs of aging along with reversing back the effects of pollution and removing tan in no time at all. Famous for fighting those stubborn acne marks, tomato face packs were used since the Middle Ages and passed down by our ancestors. Great for oily skin, the abrasive properties will help fight pimples as well and has cooling effects on the skin.

A Golden Glow with Orange Face Pack

Right from the orange juice and the orange peels, you cannot leave out any of these. A great exfoliating agent with loads of Vitamin C, it will do wonders for your skin. The peels can be dried and kept to have a steady supply all through the year- yes; you can carry some with you on your holidays too! Sundried, they can be grinded into a semi fine powder. Depending on skin type simply mix milk or honey and rub in circular motion on your facial skin. Wash off with cold water. In no time will you see a soft smooth skin screaming with health.

Cucumber Face Pack for the Oily Ones

Think that your face can give the oily Arab a run for his money? Don’t worry- a cucumber face pack is the ultimate answer to deal with the nuances of oily skin. It is extremely popular for astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Grind and squeeze the juice and apply to your face and leave it for some time. You can also carry on you your normal chores as the juice works wonder for your skin. Wash with water and gift yourself a fresh and tight glowing skin with the pores less visible almost instantly!



Thursday, 13 June 2013

Head for Bermuda Holidays - Fun in the Sun

Holidaying in the astoundingly gorgeous island of Bermuda is simply a dream come true for holidaymakers across the globe. Bermuda holidays are all about sun, fun, long stretches of silvery sand and exotic beaches. What could be better way to escape the mundane life and relax for a few days than being in Bermuda?

Holidaying in Bermuda have recently become affordable- thanks to the new introduction of cheap flights to Bermuda from all major cities of the US and UK. Despite the small size of the island, you will love to explore the rich history and cultural heritage so wonderfully reflected in its present day lifestyle and arrested beautifully in its wonderful museums and art galleries.

A great choice of place for a perfect holiday, you would love to explore the richness of the island and its nature parks, nature beaches, historic buildings and its prime attractions- the impeccable pristine beaches. With the latest introduction of the cheap airfare tickets by most of the major airlines serving the country, Bermuda has become an affordable option for many holidaymakers across the world.

Major Attractions and Getting Around the Place

Bermuda is only a small piece of land of 21 sq. miles and can be explored in one go. Once you reach the place by taking the deals from the cheapest airline, the best way to move around the city is by renting out a bike, scooter or a car- if you happen to have your family with you. Moving around the island is very easy and you can be sure that there are absolutely no chances of getting lost here.

Packed with a punch, exploring Bermuda at your own pace is the best way.  If you happen to be an art lover, start off with the delightful art galleries and studios that are so many in numbers. Not to be missed are the Bermuda Art Center, Clayworks, Jill’s Studio, National Gallery, Craft Market, Society of Art Gallery and the collection of artwork by Carole Holding and Christopher Grimes- exclusive pieces for sure!

Take a Bite of Bermuda’s History

Simply make sure to include all the major attractions that the island has in store for you. The history and true heritage of the place is best reflected in its numerous museums, fort and ancient historic buildings. Though the list is seemingly endless, pick the ones that capture your interest the most. 

Surely not to be missed are the African Diaspora heritage trail, Bermuda Cathedral, where you can also hike to the top and revel in the exotic views, visit the Maritime Museum, and the National Trust Museum which is in the oldest stone house of Bermuda and of course the Bermuda Perfumery at St. George. The last one will be surely exciting.

Head to the Beaches

Your holidays in Bermuda will just remain incomplete without indulging and spending some relaxing moments on the pristine beaches of Bermuda. After all, sun and sand Bermuda holidays are all about making the most of the alluring beaches that draws millions from across the world every year! They are breathtakingly beautiful and they remain the world’s best pink sand beaches.


Plan carefully and indulge in a lovely holiday in Bermuda. What are you waiting for? Dive headlong today!

Saturday, 8 June 2013

Caracol: The Seat of Ancient Mayan Culture

Caracol- The Historical Side of Belize

Right at the heart of the Mayan jungle, lies the principal of the ruins of Belize- Caracol, the most prehistoric city dating back to 1200 BC. Steeped in rich history, Caracol in Belize has a story of its own.

Belize Caracol lies deep inside the jungles of Vaca Plateau at an elevated area of 1500 feet in the Cayo District. Part of the Caracol Archaeological Reserve, all measures have been taken to preserve the delicate architecture of the bygone era, while developing the area as a Nature Reserve.

The area is extremely rich in the natural bionetwork and the core area is a major tourist attraction. It has three plazas, ball courts and a surrounding acropolis. Discovered way back in the 1938, Caracol Belize soon became a visual extravagance with a wide range of exotic birds and trees. There are various other structures that are spread all across the site.

The Major Structures and Attractions of Caracol Belize

The splendors of the Cana Temple Pyramid are a sight to behold and it remains the tallest structure of Caracol in Belize with a height of 140 feet. More than 200 burials that were found here paint a different picture of the place. The largest of the Mayan site, it has many hieroglyphics writings and other structures that reveal the rich heritage of the place. Grandeur and importance is what is reflected in this Classic Mayan site. El Caracol, as it is locally known, is positioned only 25 miles from San Ignacio.

Other major attractions of El Caracol Belize 

There are many magnificent picnic spots where you can pack your lunch and have it while enjoying the ancient ruins. The best time to visit the area remains the months from June to December. Besides the main temple pyramid, you will also find three other smaller ones that have exquisite, intricate architecture of the bygone era. The ball rooms have an amazing display of ancient writings. Do not forget to take a look at the three main plazas and the Visitors Center in Caracol Belize. The collection of the ancient Mayan Artifacts is simply incredible with the major attraction remaining the ceremonial altar.

Surrounding Attritions of Belize Caracol


Though a major part of Caracol remain unexcavated, it is has still become a major tourist spot. Lying in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, it remains a great attraction for the nature lovers. With the gargantuan Ceiba trees and exotic variety of avian life, you will surely connect yourself with nature. 

Including some side trips to the major places like Rio on Pools, the Caves of Rio Frio and splendid waterfall in legions that are there in the place will make your Belize trip extra special!