GREECE: MYKONOS DREAMS

Oh Mykonos...

Barrett wears black Prada speedo.

For years I’ve heard about the beauty that is the Greek Islands, and have wanted to visit them forever, but when you find yourself constantly busy, and trying to be financially responsible, it’s hard to just pick up and go on a vacation.

However, this year I had made my first New Year’s resolution ever, and decided that I was going to travel more this year.

Thus, comes my two week adventure that all began in Mykonos, one of the most beautiful places you will ever see.

Mykonos is one of those fantastical places that you hear about, and when you arrive it becomes all the more beautiful. There is an island aesthetic that is white and blue, represented in the Greek Flag that is simply everywhere when one travels to Greece.

Fresh fish, beautiful beaches, and sun-kissed skin create the dreamlike atmosphere that is Mykonos.

Wether you are looking to chill on the beach and quietly read a book, make new friends and party the day away, or everything above, Mykonos has something for everyone. I get why year after year so many people flock to this far away land.

Lastly, a huge thank you to Dan and Dean of Dsquared for showing myself, and my new family the most amazing time. This crew of people made Mykonos all the more special, and I cannot wait to go back next year!

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MUST DO:

Spilia Resturant – There is nothing more authentic then having to slightly hike to a cave to eat one of the freshest and most delicious meals you have ever had. There is a natural pool you can swim in, a DJ to get you dancing, and the nicest owners you have ever met.

Nammos Beach Club- This place starts out very loungey and mellow, but as the sun starts to go down, this place turns into a full on party. The beach and restaurant part are both gorgeous. Slightly more refined and a bit more expensive, but definitely worth it.

Jackie O’ Beach Club- Another spot that turns it up as the sun goes down. Great people watching, a pool to hangout in, and definitely skew way more gay than Nammos.

CAVO Paradise Night Club - I thought NYC was crazy when it came to nightlife, but Mykonos may take the cake on this one. This place doesn't even getting popping until 4AM, yes thats as in 4 in the morning. A long dinner and a nap are necessary before, but once you get in you realize why you are just starting your night/morning. Amazing DJ, huge venue and awesome dancing.

Lacoste: Federer Cup 2015 | Montreal

I had not planned on being in Montreal for the Roger Federer Cup, but when Lacoste asks you to go as their guest, you don't say no. Thus, comes my accidental pride weekend in Montreal.

While there was a ton of fun to be had in good ole Montreal, the main event was definitely the tennis. My rowdy group of editors and new friends was treated to a VIP experience at the Lacoste Box, and got to watch some serious tennis be played. 

The main match for our Quarter Final Friday night experience was watching Rafael Nadal get that much closer to the finals, and in typical Barrett fashion I had a great time just getting to know the amazing editors and fashion tastemakers on the trip with me. 

Lacoste totally did it up for us, and this was just day 1 of 3. More to come very soon!

Egg Shop NYC

Who doesn't love an egg...or two?

Located just two blocks down from where I live in NoLita is one of my favorite restaurants in NYC, Egg Shop. 

Since living in my 4th floor walkup apartment in this charming neighborhood, I've seen lots of change happening. Gentrification is so in...kidding...kinda. And with that change has come lots of great, healthy and trendy restaurants in the hood.

Egg Shop has by far been my favorite, and by the looks of the lines that gather on the weekends, lots of other people's as well.

Owner, Sarah Schneider, may not have known she was going to have a hit on her hands when she created this adorable restaurant, but as time has shown, there is no end in sight. With this past July being their best month yet, Egg Shop is doing a lot of things right. 

Whether it's in between bread, in a bowl, or on a burger; Egg Shop has something to make everyone's tastebuds water.

My personal favorites are: The Beast (a pulled-pork sandwich), El Camino ( a poached egg, pulled pork carnitas bowl), and the Steak and Egg (I think you can figure this one out).

Because I literally take everyone I know here, I made my buddy, Megan Collins of Style Girlfriend, come for a catch up. Lets just say we both left completely satisfied and full.

Egg Shop truly hits the mark on so many levels, and the fact that it doesn't break the bank is an added plus. If you haven't sunk your teeth into one of their delectable meals than you best get on it, and quick!

Click here for their full website and menu!

Bon Appetit!

Losing My Virginity: Chicago Style

While it has been a while since I swiped my v-card, this was in fact my first time...in Chicago. 

For years I have heard amazing things about the Windy City, but never found a reason or excuse to visit. Well, this year a series of travels, and finding a really cheap ticket heading home from SF back to NYC, gave me enough reasons to take a long layover, 3 days to be exact.

What better place to lose my Chicago Deep-Dish-Style virginity than at The Virgin Hotel. This flagship hotel has all the amenities that one could hope for, is located perfectly downtown, and has already housed some really cool celebrities and events.

Walking in one can feel the iconic brand's presence with English flags, hues of red, and an air of sexiness all over.

The staff is super friendly, the rooms are mod with a modern flare, and style meets comfort in a truly effortless way. 

Vespa seats, a shower large enough to hold a party, and a bed more comfortable than a cloud made this stay truly feel luxurious and welcomed.

Feeling naughty like Austin Powers head to the "Shag-Pad" or venture your way to the super cool Speakeasy. Just don't get lost in the locker room showers!

Maybe your into mixing and mingling with singles. If thats the case Two Zero Three Cafe, or Miss Ricky's are sure to hit the spot. Both offer food and beverage that will crush any craving, and leave you feeling full in more ways than one.

Hosting stellar views, creative cocktails and an attractive audience the 26th Floor Rooftop Bar, aka Cerise, will complete any local or visitor's day in the most dreamy of ways.

I have to hand it to them, throwing in the towel never did feel so good than at The Virgin Chicago.

They say that you never forget your first time, and the saying holds true. Thank you Chicago, The Virgin Hotel, and all the amazing people I met for a truly memorable first time!

Click Here: THE VIRGIN HOTEL CHICAGO to book your stay now!

Labor Day Weekend: SF Edition

San Francisco is a place that people from all over the world come to visit, but when it is just a quick trip up the coast, you tend to forget how special it is. Since I was involuntarily left to my own devices for the long weekend, I was able to wander through the city I never really got to know although I lived so close to it for three years. I have plans to cozy up to this city a bit more in the future.