LA by Diana - Personal Style blog by Diana Marks

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August 3, 2015

Back to School with Sakroots

I can't believe we are already in August and school is just around the corner. Even though I no longer go to school, I still have that "back to school" feeling every year when the time comes. I also still need a few essentials for my home office and work, and what's a better time to shop for new stuff than "back-to-school" season? Here are a few of my favorite must haves for this time of the year.
I've become quite obsessed with backpacks in the past few years (ironically enough, I hated them when I actually was at school :) ), because they are a great way to keep my hands free and still have all the essentials with me. Sakroots has surprised me again with their colorful and original selection of prints. I'll definitely be wearing my new artsy backpack very often. As for the other must have, I cannot imagine my life without it - Sakroots agenda. My days are so crazy and hectic that if I don't have a planner with me, I go insane. The one from Sakroots is definitely the best - it's big enough, stylish and just fun.
I like Sakroots not only for their products, but also for the company's direction. Not only Sakroots supports young artists, but the company also runs a "Campus Circle" campaign, which consists of college ambassadors sharing the Sakroots story around their campuses. 
By the way, you can receive 15% OFF you first purchase if you sign up with your email on the Sakroots homepage. So hurry up and make one of these awesome backpacks your own!

July 30, 2015

Hotel Pullman Brussels Centre Midi

As I continue my hotel reports, it's time to talk about my stay in Brussels. I stayed at the ultra modern and chic Pullman Brussels Centre Midi, which is located right outside a major local and international train station of Brussels. Considering that I spent two out of three days traveling outside Brussels, and left Brussels for Amsterdam by train, I couldn't imagine of a better place to stay. But regardless if you need to travel outside of Brussels or prefer to spend your time in the city, the historical heart of Brussels is only a 15 min walk away, or a short 5 min metro ride, with the station located right next to the hotel. 
Location aside, the whole hotel is simply superb. Designed by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, this 4 star upscale hotel is definitely a place to be - sleek, modern, minimalistic and glamorous! Out of all the places I stayed at, this one was by far the hardest one to leave! I am just too addicted to cool designs and great customer service :) And of course, the best part of any European hotel stay is... breakfast! It was definitely superb and the variety was just insane. I wished I stayed there longer so that I could try everything they had :) So delicious!

July 24, 2015

WestCord Fashion Hotel Amsterdam

It's already been two weeks since I am back, but I am still not over my post-trip depression :) It was such an amazing experience, particularly due to the beautiful hotels I got to stay at. 
Today I'll tell you a bit more about my stay in Amsterdam. First of all, I arrived at the airport and got a TESLA cab - that's how you ride in Amsterdam! Definitely in style ;) Then it took me to the WestCord Fashion Hotel Amsterdam and I can't imagine a better place for your home away from home in this vibrant and international city. My hotel choice was pretty straightforward for two reasons. First, I am a fashionista (hence "the fashion hotel") and second, its convenient location. The hotel is close to public transportation which takes you directly to the center of the city, an airport is only a short drive from it and, most importantly, it's located right across the World Fashion Center. The rooms are very convenient (and quiet, which is kind of a big deal for me!) and the design throughout is all about fashion and glamour - definitely my vibe! 
My favorite amenities of this hotel are The Wellness Garden with 2 saunas and Turkish steam room, indoor swimming pool, and the SKYY bar on the 10th floor with great views of the city. And I was definitely obsessed with breakfasts there - seriously I don't think I ever ate so much food at once. But I don't regret it at all - it was healthy and definitely delicious. I can't wait to get back to this beautiful city and come back to WestCord Fashion Hotel Amsterdam.