spotlightsojourns on LTK

spotlightsojourns

“Love is in the air, and it smells like coffee.”

Friend, Paul and I (Marilee) wish you a sweet week celebrating love with your Galentines and Valentines 💌

⭐️ Linking 5 thoughtful gifts for your favorite coffee aficionados

#LTKfoodie #LTKValentine #LTKHome

“Love is in the air, and it smells like coffee.” Friend, Paul and I (Marilee) wish you a sweet week celebrating love with your Galentines and Valentines 💌 ⭐️ Linking 5 thoughtful gifts for your favorite coffee aficionados LTKfoodie LTKValentine LTKHome

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Craft Instant Espresso and Chocolate Set | Blue Bottle Coffee

BLUE BOTTLE COFFEE | Blue Bottle Coffee

Bialetti Rainbow 139 Ml 3 Cups Coffeemaker - Red | Macy's

Villeroy & Boch For Me Espresso Cup & Saucer, Set of 2 | Bloomingdale's (US)

Espresso Martini Glass Candle | Anthropologie (US)

Kalimera, good morning from Greece!

We’re Marilee and Paul, married travel creatives. He’s the photographer, I (Marilee) the writer.

We met as university students on an archaeological dig in Greece. We love Greece, which feels like our ancient home.

Paul speaks 3 languages fluently, including Greek. Now, I’m finally beginning to learn Greek.

⭐️ Linking the No. 1 foreign language course that I use + add’l language resources.

#LTKTravel #LTKstorytime

This gorgeous silk skirt is on sale!

@Bloomingdale's US just re-stocked this flowy silk maxi skirt by Calypso St. Barth in 3 colors: Navy, coral, and magenta (which I’m wearing)

It packs easily, fits comfortably, and twirls dreamily. Dress it down for vacations, dress it up for Easter!

#LTKSaleAlert #LTKootd #LTKOver40

Ladies, walk into Monday with confidence. Because Monday is the gateway to the week’s opportunities.

You and I have things to do, places to go, sights to see.

So we choose outfits with ease. Clothing with flow. Colors that make us smile.

⭐️ Linking similar to my silk maxi skirt from Calypso St. Barth

#LTKvlog #LTKootd #LTKOver40

3 stand-out items for travel guys from the LTK Spring Sale:

(according to my travel guy Paul, who’s eyeing the @Vuori US 20% sitewide savings through March 15 for 1st-time buyers)

1) Merino wool crewneck sweater
2) Coronado shirt jacket
3) Ponto full-zip hoodie

Paul likes Vuori’s contemporary travel wear. It’s versatile for city or seashore.

Like here in Kavala, an ancient coastal city founded during the Roman Empire in Eastern Macedonia, Greece.

#LTKSpringSale #LTKTravel #LTKMens

Yes, you can climb castle walls and explore ancient ruins in dresses and skirts 💯

Like here in Kavala, far off the beaten path in Greece.

Since I wear dresses and skirts exclusively (except for workouts), I pack clothes with flow, flare, and/or stretch.

Chic, comfortable, foldable Tieks ballet flats also come on every trip.

⭐️ 20% off @Spanx sitewide thru the LTK app until March 15! Linking similar to my sold-out ponte dress

#LTKSpringSale #LTKdayinmylife #LTKTravel

Yes, you can climb castle walls and explore ancient ruins in dresses and skirts 💯

I wear dresses and skirts exclusively; my only pants are yoga pants. So I pack clothes with flow, flare, and/or stretch. And @tieks ballet flats go with travel, work, and vacation outfits.

⭐️ Linking similar to my sold-out ponte dress. 20% off @Spanx sitewide thru the LTK app until March 15

#LTKOver40 #LTKSpringSale #LTKTravel

A perfect outfit for visiting European cities is comfortable and versatile.

I pack fabrics with flow, flare and/or stretch — and ideally wrinkle-free. Styles that move from long haul flights to urban adventures and ancient discoveries.

I also pack @tieks ballet flats for business travel and vacation outfits alike.

⭐️ 20% off @Spanx sitewide thru LTK until March 15! Linking similar to my sold-out ponte dress.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40 #LTKSpringSale

3 things to pack for early spring vacation in Greece — because even in Crete, Europe’s southernmost point, it gets cold and windy!

1) Boho skirt or dress in a bright color to pop against historical sites and ancient ruins
2) Cashmere or merino cardigan to layer on or off
3) Polished tuckable tee

⭐️ Linking similar from @abercrombie 25% sitewide thru LTK until March 15!

#LTKSpringSale #LTKTravel #LTKOver40

This old stone windmill in Crete played a pivotal part in Disney’s 1964 live action film, THE MOON SPINNERS.

Based on Mary Stewart’s best-selling romantic mystery, THE MOON SPINNERS starred Hayley Mills as an intrepid tourist, Peter McEnery as her romantic interest, and Eli Wallach as a menacing villain.

The best part of the melodramatic movie is seeing Crete’s spectacular scenery and the working windmills in the ‘60s!

#LTKstorytime #LTKTravel

Welcome, friend! We’re Marilee and Paul, full-time travel creatives.

Paul is the photographer, I (Marilee) the writer.

We met as university students on an archaeological dig in the Greek Islands. Honeymooned here. And have returned time and again.

I’m finally learning the Greek language! We’ll occasionally share some Greek phrases with you.

⭐️ Linking the foreign language course I use + fun learning resources

#LTKTravel #LTKdayinmylife #LTKstorytime

3 favorite books about female adventurers, archaeologists, and world travelers:

Their true stories have inspired my (Marilee) journey since university. To quote one of these extraordinary woman:

“Few such moments of exhilaration can come as that which stands at the threshold of wild travel.” (Gertrude Bell, 1907)

#LTKstorytime #LTKdayinmylife #LTKTravel

3 little luxuries for better sleep at home and in hotel rooms:

1) Mulberry silk pillowcase
2) Mulberry silk eye mask
3) Ultra soft bed socks

Paul and I (Marilee) know the benefits of good sleep for health and well-being. These 3 bedtime essentials certainly help!

#LTKHome #LTKselfcare #LTKTravel

Discover a delightful place to stay and explore the beautiful area around Agios Nikolaos, Crete.

Paul and I (Marilee) booked the Lake View Studio at Remvi Apartments, a fully serviced 4-star boutique aparthotel.

The stylish, spacious, luxurious studio apartments overlook Lake Voulismeni and the Cretan Sea.

It’s a perfect spot to start each morning with coffee and views unique in Greece!

#LTKdayinmylife #LTKTravel #LTKvlog

Glamorous Agios Nikolaos, Crete, has drawn the glitterati since the 1960s. Here’s why:

Walt Disney himself chose the stunning Agios Nikolaos coast to film his live-action Disney movie, THE MOON SPINNERS, based on Mary Stewart’s best-selling book.

The 5-star hotel where Walt Disney and his movie stars stayed is still one of Crete’s finest beach resorts resorts.

Other books, movies, and TV shows have been set in Agios Nikolaos, of course.

But THE MOON SPINNERS book and movie started the travel trend that continues today.

#LTKstorytime #LTKTravel

What’s the best camera for nighttime photography?

As a trained photographer, Paul gets this question a lot. He always says the best camera is the one you have and use. But at night, it’s more about the lens.

Still, while carrying his big camera and lens galore, Paul reaches most often for his small Sony and DJI Osmo cameras linked below.

#LTKMens #LTKdayinmylife #LTKTravel

Discover the best views in beautiful Agios Nikolaos, Crete — views unique in Greece.

Lovely Lake Voulismeni is the lively hub of this chic coastal town.

Paul and I (Marilee) booked the Heart of Emerald suite at Emerald Lake Studios, a family-owned aparthotel on the lakefront.

Although we have no footage inside our stylish one-bedroom suite, Paul shot these stunning views from our balcony 🤩

#LTKdayinmylife #LTKTravel #LTKvlog

Discover the Greek island of Crete with us!

Early spring in Crete, Europe’s southernmost edge, is a quiet season. When you can travel like a local.

Let’s explore Agios Nikolaos, a chic town with its own lake next to the sea.

⭐️ Linking 3 of our favorite accommodations here. The lakeside vacation apartments are open year-round. The 5-star hotel resort is open April to October.

#LTKTravel #LTKvlog #LTKdayinmylife

One essential skirt to pack for European spring vacations:

A sleek midi or maxi skirt — flattering fit, versatile style.

It’s chic for date nights in capital cities. And casual for daytime strolls down cobblestone streets.

The longer length is also nice in early spring’s changeable weather. Europe’s southern edge, Crete still has snow in March!

#LTKTravel #LTKgrwm #LTKOver40

What should you wear to visit churches and monasteries in Greece?

Modest attire is the answer for everyone. Especially at important places like the monasteries of Meteora.

So, pop a lightweight pashmina and pull-on skirt or pants into your tote or day pack.

Some holy sites have wraps available at the entrance. But most don’t.

#LTKTravel #LTKOver40 #LTKdayinmylife

The ONE pair of shoes I (Marilee) pack on every trip:

Ballet flats by Tieks. Here’s why I love and have worn @tieks for years:

Quality Italian craftsmanship. Lightweight and foldable. Super cute AND super comfortable.

⭐️ Wearing Tieks Obsidian Black patent leather. Also linking matte leather and wool options

#LTKOver40 #LTKdayinmylife #LTKTravel

3 things I (Marilee) pack for European travel in March:

1) Dark wash denim jacket
2) Slim black maxi skirt
3) Midweight cashmere sweater

Even on Crete, Europe’s southernmost edge, March weather can turn quickly. So spring outfits need versatility.

#LTKTravel #LTKdayinmylife #LTKOver40

Seriously, what IS this place? And how did Paul capture this scene?

This is Agios Nikolaos and Lake Voulismeni on the Greek island of Crete.

Paul is an FAA-certified, FAA-licensed drone pilot. He filmed this scene with his favorite drone — on sale now!

#LTKTravel #LTKSaleAlert #LTKdayinmylife

Photographer Paul is constantly asked, “What’s the best camera?”

Paul always answers, “The best camera is the one you have and use.”

I (Marilee) like my iPhone for B-roll. Because it’s handy and easy to use.

Paul carries his 3 favorite cameras in his sling bag. Including the DJI Osmo he’s using here in Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece.

#LTKMens #LTKTravel #LTKdayinmylife

Calling all ladies who want to stand out from the crowd on vacation:

Pack a bright, bold, flowy midi or maxi skirt for your vacation outfits. Dress it up or down with sweaters or tees, heels or flats.

⭐️ Linking similar to my red Polo Ralph Lauren skirt

#LTKOver40 #LTKgrwm #LTKTravel

My No. 1 must-pack item for spring break and beach vacations:

A dark wash denim jacket. Mine is the original @levi jean jacket — the classic style goes with everything from flowing skirts to yoga pants!

#LTKootd #LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

3 must-pack items for your spring break vacation outfits:

1) Classic jean jacket like this forever favorite from @levi
2) Flowy midi or maxi skirt in different colors
3) Comfy kicks like the awesome, affordable All Stars

Each of these versatile items can dress up or dress down everything else you pack!

#LTKdayinmylife #LTKOver40 #LTKTravel

3 travel essentials ALWAYS in our carry-ons:

Paul and I (Marilee) have been stuck overnight in airport hotels without our luggage many times. Including last night!

Linking his and her items for unexpected airport hotel nights.

#LTKOver40 #LTKTravel #LTKdayinmylife

Happy Travel Tuesday from the United Lounge at O’Hare International Airport 🛫

Tired as Paul and I (Marilee) clearly are, the United Lounge agent complimented my red lipstick. Which I literally put on 3 airports ago. @Sephora Cream Lip Stain 01 Always Red for the win!

#LTKTravel #LTKdayinmylife #LTKOver40

3 chic boots for winter days and date night outfits, which I’d buy again on LTK:

1) Ilse Jacobsen lace-up rubber boots, fleece lined.
2) La Canadienne short leather boots, shearling lined.
3) Ugg suede boots, accented with bows and lined in shearling.

Because there’s still 6 weeks of winter and cold weather ahead!

#LTKgrwm #LTKOver40 #LTKdayinmylife

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Paul and I (Marilee) hope you’re having a wonderful weekend, doing the things you love with the people you love.

⭐️ Linking 3 travel tripods Paul uses and highly recommends. He used the Peak Design professional travel tripod to take this photo.

#LTKTravel #LTKSeasonal #LTKdayinmylife

Happy Valentine’s Day! Love is in the air everywhere you look around.

Including the blue sky above and the misty gorge below Niagara Falls❣️

I (Marilee) was amazed to see the heart-shaped cloud above the rainbow below. And so happy that Paul captured it!

⭐️ Linking photographer Paul’s favorite camera gear

#LTKdayinmylife #LTKValentine #LTKTravel

3 thoughtful gifts for coffee lovers and foodies. Plus special pricing for Valentine’s Day!

Blue Bottle coffee, matcha, and drinkware + TCHO Chocolates are artisan crafted and aesthetically designed.

⭐️ Paul and I (Marilee) have been fans since the early 2000s, when Blue Bottle Coffee and TCHO opened in our hometown San Francisco

#LTKSaleAlert #LTKfoodie #LTKValentine

3 Valentine’s Day gifts for coffee lovers on their coffee journey.

Paul and I (Marilee) have a motto: “Travel the world. Taste the coffee. Discover local gems.”

We highly recommend:

1) Portable coffeemaker for the suitcase, carry-on, or backpack.
We have an espresso AND a drip coffee recommendation, depending on your giftee’s preferences.
2) Pour-over kit for the home
3) Coffee travel mug for the road

⭐️ The Wacaco Nanopress upgrade bundle comes with a Nespresso capsule attachment. Perfetto!

#LTKTravel #LTKHome #LTKValentine

Planning a romantic getaway in Chicago?

Paul and I (Marilee) booked a wonderful stay at the Kimpton Gray Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel in the Chicago Loop.

We loved the whimsy, style, and comfort of the One Bedroom Suite — especially the deep soaking tub!

This 5-star hotel also has a great central location in downtown Chicago.

@Expedia #LTKValentine

#LTKvlog #LTKTravel #LTKdayinmylife

3 cold-weather accessories for fabulous femmes on Galentine’s Day and Valentine’s Day:

1) Earmuffs, quite possibly the cutest winter accessory! My favorite Galentine introduced me (Marilee) to this adorable style
2) Cashmere or alpaca scarf, the coziest comfort
3) Cashmere gloves, the finishing touch for winter outfits

⭐️ Also linking my go-to @Sephora lippie for lasting color

#LTKValentine #LTKBeauty #LTKOver40