Tuhkana's Notebook

Travelling Green: 7 Eco-friendly Hotels and Resorts to Stay in 2018

2018-07-02T22:22:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't like to travel? Warm days under the sun, exploring nature or snorkeling in paradise… Count me in!

Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. It can have a positive impact on local, national and international economy at many levels. But it can also have a negative impact to the environment. It often puts pressure on natural resources through over-consumption – often in places where resources are already scarce.

Fortunately, eco-tourism is a rapidly growing industry, with potential benefits for both the environment and the economies of the tourist destinations. More and more hotels are making important changes to implement practices that recognize the three pillars of sustainable tourism—economic, social, and environmental.

We've put together a list of 7 eco-friendly hotels that go beyond of just reusing bath towels or turning the lights out when not in use, and go the extra mile to embrace sustainability.

Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam
Recognized as one of the world’s top eco lodges by National Geographic Traveler, this resort has been built using sustainable building materials and it's structure is designed to maximize air flow to reduce the need for air conditioning.

The resort and staff are passionately committed to both social responsibility — via education — and reducing the carbon footprint.

A post shared by Six Senses Con Dao (@sixsensescondao) on Dec 7, 2017 at 5:41am PST

Alila Villas Soori, Bali, Indonesia
Set between the rice fields and coastline the hotel was designed in accordance with the EarthCheck international environmental standards.

The resort is completely water efficient with rainwater optimized to meet all of their water needs. More than half of all ingredients, goods and services are purchased from the local area. Locally sourced materials such as sand stone and natural stones were used in building the resort, which incorporates a combination of indigenous volcanic rock and abundant plants to organically cool the villas.

A post shared by Alila Villas Uluwatu (@alilavillasuluwatu) on May 1, 2018 at 12:16am PDT

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Hawaii
Andaz Maui is Hawaii’s first LEED-certified resort. The hotel's sustainable elements include a solar hot water system, variable speed chillers, motion-sensor lighting controls, LED lighting, and low-flow plumbing fixtures. From the glassware (made of recycled wine bottles) to the gardening (green waste is recycled into mulch) to the kitchen (where a food hydrator is used to compost food waste and then repurpose it for gardening), the hotel is designed to reduce energy and water consumption and minimize harmful emissions.

A post shared by Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort (@andazmaui) on Jan 22, 2018 at 5:14am PST

1 Hotel South Beach, Florida
The hangers in the closets are made out of recycled paper like maps and books, the guest rooms have water filters, the glassware is made out of recycled bottles, and the list goes on and on.

A post shared by 1 Hotels (@1hotels) on Feb 23, 2018 at 2:02pm PST

Thala Beach Lodge, Port Douglas, Australia
This resort has been awarded with one of the highest eco-tourism accreditations, Eco certified – Advanced Tourism. The resort is actively involved in assisting the environmental rehabilitation process. Situated on 145 acres of property, Thala invites elders of the Kuku Talanji community to take guests through a journey of their culture; from healing plants to foraging for bush food.

A post shared by Thala Beach Nature Reserve (@thalabeach) on Nov 8, 2016 at 3:55pm PST

Tri Lanka, Sri Lanka
From its green roofs and living walls to its solar hot water and recycled wood, Tri is dedicated to sustainable design through and through. The contemporary hotel is nestled in the lush landscape around the lake.

A post shared by Tri (@tri_lanka) on Jun 17, 2018 at 8:15am PDT

Garonga Safari Camp, Phalaborwa, South Africa
The resort supports the local community through economic empowerment. Locals are offered employment opportunities, with potential for career development, while food and goods are sourced locally where possible. Additionally, guests are invited to offset their carbon footprint by assisting with the planting and growing of Spesbok Trees in the Eastern Cape.

A post shared by Garonga Safari Camp (@safarigaronga) on Feb 26, 2018 at 2:36am PST

We all need to make better choices in what we consume and how we live. You might be surprised to discover that while we all need to make lifestyle changes, saving the planet doesn't have to mean giving up the things you love.

Have fun living a more sustainable life!

Will you be my Valentine?

2018-02-12T21:00:00.000-06:00

At Tuhkana Swimwear, Valentine means Red. We’ve compiled our favorite shades of red inspired by the upcoming Valentine's Day.

Tangled Bikini Top in Valentine

Dusk Deep V One-Piece in Valentine

You can't buy love. But you can buy a bikini.

Living a #tuhkanalife with Ana Rita Ferreira

2018-01-30T22:42:00.000-06:00

This week we're excited for you to meet Ana Rita Ferreira, the 23-year-old Lisbon-based journalism student, blogger and photography lover. She travels the world and lives a #tuhkanalife every step of the way.

Get to know more about Ana Rita and read some fun facts about her below.

Ana Rita wearing the Foxy One-Piece in Sand in Marrakech, Morocco

Facts about me
Heyy, my name is Ana Rita Ferreira, I'm 23 and I have a degree in Culture and Communication Science. With roots in the Algarve, I live in Lisbon but share my time and heart between the two regions. I'm currently finishing my Masters degree in Media and Journalism and, if everything goes right, I'll be done with school soon (I'm never gonna study again... yeeey).
I love travel and photography so I work hard to produce great content and share my experiences on social media. 2018 brought a new project and I'm now closer to my followers by sharing my day-to-day life through the "Anne Rie Journey" blog. This year will be filled with new projects.

Ana Rita enjoying the weekend in Portugal

What would you say about Portugal to a first-time visitor?
I could use the cliché and say "it's the best country in the world" (which is true) but to avoid mining my credibility I can use it's excellent gastronomy as my defense. Portugal is pastel de nata (a Portuguese egg tart pastry), cozido à Portuguesa (a typical Portuguese stew) and francesinha (a Portuguese sandwich originally from Porto). Portugal has the most beautiful beaches in Europe and a mild climate. Portugal has hip and really nice people. Portugal allows you to be in the city and the countryside in one day. I have visited a few countries and nothing compares to the feeling of coming home.

Ana Rita having brunch in Lisbon, Portugal

You have created a solid Instagram presence. How did it all began?
I have been asked that question several times and I honestly don't even remember it well. I know I created my first Instagram account on a trip to Paris in 2012 and since then we became inseparable. I started publishing photos of my day-to-day life, gradually getting more followers and interacting with many of them. I had a lot of friends on Facebook, they followed me on Instagram and that helped me start off with a good follower base. Since then, my photo skills got better and I started connecting with more and more people. Instagram started as, and still is, a place where I collect and keep memories, like a photo album where I can look back and remember all the good times.

Where do you seek inspiration?
Without a doubt my inspiration comes from other "instagrammers". I spend a lot of time researching new profiles and saving photos to get new ideas. But what I really love the most is editing! I love editing the colors of the photos and I think that's where I'm able to stand out. I always try to create something different from what it's out there – at least from Portugal.

Who was the most inspiring person you've ever met and who would you like to meet?
My favorites are Belen Hostalet, Matilda Djerf, Ellie Bullen, and Doyoutravel's Jack Morris and Lauren Bullen. I have never met any of them in person but I love all their photos, they have a lifestyle that I identify myself with a lot.

Sitting by the pool in Marrakech, Morocco with her Foxy One-Piece in Sand

Ana Rita at the Musée Yves Saint Laurent in Marrakech wearing the Foxy One-Piece in Sand

3 Fun facts
• I know how to sew and I'm really handy with arts and crafts, so a lot of the things I wear and home decor things at my place are made by myself.
• I'm obsessed with vintage and old stuff.
• Although very feminine right now, I was a real 'tomboy' growing up.

You've been to Morocco recently. What advice would you give to someone planning to go?
Morocco... I loved it! Everything is so beautiful and colorful. Very near to Portugal but such a different culture. A great place to take beautiful pictures. I was there for 4 days and that was enough to see Marrakech in detail and the Sahara desert. From Marrakech to the desert in Merzouga I traveled by car with my boyfriend but it was a rather tiring trip and a bit dangerous, so I would advise you to go through a tour operator, to keep you safe and worry-free.
Super important too is this shopping advice. If you're like me, you'll lose yourself at the Souk in Jemaa el-Fnaa but don't forget to haggle A LOT. Always offer half of what they are asking. Oh and don't stay in hotels but in Riads (a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard).

Ana Rita checking the Souk in Marrakech, Morocco

5 travel essentials I can't live without
• Photo equipment (which takes a lot of space already)
• Several sunglasses
• Underwear
• Travel necessaire
• A pair of white Chucks

Favorite travel destination so far?
Thailand and Indonesia. I did a bit of these two countries in one month and it was without a doubt the most incredible experience of my life. Both places have lots of nature and beautiful landscapes. It's difficult to pick just one favorite place because I loved many: the Phi Phi Islands, Uluwatu, Canggu and the Gili iIslands.

Ana Rita biking around and showing off her Dusk V One-Piece in Chia at the Gili Trawangan Island in Indonesia

What is your dream destination?
Hawaii. Since I was a little girl I used to dream about it while watching Lilo & Stitch. My first tattoo was an "Aloha". Unfortunately I haven't had the chance to make this dream come true but I'm hoping it won't take too long.

Ana Rita in her Foxy One-Piece in Sand in Marrakech, Morocco

Check what Ana Rita is up to!

Instagram: @anneriejourney
Blog: Anne Rie Journey

Living a #tuhkanalife with Mari Azevedo

2018-01-15T20:48:00.001-06:00

Today we bring you one incredibly happy and kind girl who lives a #tuhkanalife everyday! Meet Mari Azevedo, the 22-year-old actress and singer-songwriter from Rio de Janeiro who loves to surf, is super close with her brother and plays the guitar since she was 12.

Get to know more about Mari and read some fun facts about her below.

Mari Azevedo showing off her Laze One-Piece in Raw at Taipu de Fora, Brazil

Facts about me
I'm SUPER organized... I think I might have a little OCD hahah.
I love singing, writing songs and playing musical instruments. It gives me inner peace and that makes me feel good.
I dream about traveling around the world and learn about new cultures. Be travel-rich.

Mari nerding out with some comics in São Paulo, Brazil

3 interesting, funny or cool things about you
• I'm kind of a tomboy, maybe because I grew up with an older brother my entire life. I'm a very relaxed and chilled person.
• I like skating, surfing and I have a HUGE sneakers collection... I hate high heels. My mom is always asking me to dress in a more "feminine" way – you can imagine what she means... hahah
• I love sweets, specially chocolate. I really like it!

What essentials do you always take to the beach?
Tanning lotion, no doubt about it!!

What's your favorite beach snack?
I'm obsessed with coconuts!

Mari rockin' her Sharp Bikini Top and Thrill Bikini Bottom in Honey in Bahia, Brazil

Mari sippin' on some watermelon juice in Bahia, Brazil

How did you get into the Music and Television world?
I grew up seeing my brother acting in soap operas and I always wanted to follow his footsteps.
I started doing small plays until the day I was casted for a commercial and since then I never stopped working and doing what I love.

I always loved singing and started learning to play the guitar when I was 12 but had lessons for just a month and stopped. I ended up learning by myself to play the guitar, ukulele and piano.
I LOVE music with all my heart and it's something that I'll never stop doing.

What is your biggest career goal?
My biggest career goal is a dream I have for a long, long time. Being on stage with my brother and a guitar, with thousands of people watching us and singing along to our songs. Just thinking about that gives me chills.

Mari Azevedo playing the guitar and singing

Mari as "Vivi" for the Brazilian Disney Channel show Juacas

What advice would you give someone who wants to follow in your footsteps?
I consider myself a very happy and positive person, no matter what. I truly believe that positive thoughts create positive energy and negative thoughts create negative energy. That's why I always channel positive energy to everything I do and try to influence people around me to do the same... which is not always easy. Happiness and positivity are my life's philosophy ♥ I believe that's why I achieved everything I have so far!

What or who inspires you?
Without a doubt, my parents and my brother. A career in music and television is not always easy and my family is always there to support me and that's what keeps me going.

Mari hanging out at the beach with her brother

What's the most incredible destination you've ever visited?
Algarve, Portugal. I haven't traveled much yet, I left Brazil for the first time last year and since then I've visited a few countries. My favorite so far was the Algarve in Portugal. I absolutely fell in love with the beaches and really hope I can go back there soon ♥

Mari exploring the beach at Praia da Marinha, Portugal

Next destination?
Miami and Disney World in Orlando!!!

Mari Azevedo killin' it in her Sharp Bikini Top and Thrill Bikini Bottom in Honey in Arraial Do Cabo, Brazil

Check what Mari is up to!

Instagram: @mariazevedo
YouTube: /mariazevedo
Twitter: @azevedomariii

7 Tips For Living With Less Plastic

2017-12-10T18:49:00.002-06:00

CC Image courtesy of Zak Noyle

Did you know that today, plastics are the No. 1 type of trash found in the sea? Each year, between 4 and 12 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the ocean — enough to cover every foot of coastline on the planet.

Plastic is versatile, durable and a relatively inexpensive material. But the overwhelming increase of plastic production is leaving us with a massive problem to solve. Recycling plays a big part in managing the plastic waste problem but recent studies showed that 91% of plastic worldwide isn't recycled, and it's scary to think that plastic can take between 500 and 1,000 years to fully decompose.

We know it's hard to completely stop using plastic, it's everywhere in our modern life but maybe it's time to re-think some of our habits and prioritize sustainable choices that respect our planet.

To help you do that, we've put together 7 easy tips to reduce the use of plastic in your life.

Bring your own cup
Over 99% of takeaway coffee cups don’t get recycled — even the paper cups are lined with plastic which makes them harder to recycle. So, if you love coffee, it's time for you to start taking a reusable cup with you to your favorite coffee shop.

A post shared by Roland Davies (@lucky__roland) on Jul 9, 2017 at 2:25pm PDT

Carry a reusable water bottle
The world now buys 1 million plastic bottles a minute. Don't buy individual bottles of water. Carry your own reusable water bottle that you can simply refill.

A post shared by Macey Sutherland (@maceysuther) on Oct 4, 2017 at 7:09pm PDT

Bring your own shopping bag
You probably already have a reusable bag but the challenge is to remembering to have it with you. Keep a reusable bag by your front door, in your handbag, laptop bag… wherever works for you.

A post shared by Tracey Creed (@t_creed) on Nov 22, 2017 at 11:19pm PST

Say no to disposable straws and cutlery
Like plastic bags and bottles, you usually just use plastic cutlery and straws for a couple of minutes before they end in the trash. Carry your own cutlery with you if you know you're eating out or leave a set in your car. As for straws, if you really must use them, choose a reusable one. If you don't need one, just skip it!

A post shared by ᗯIᒪᗰᗩ 🌿 (@foodlovelane) on Aug 12, 2017 at 1:19am PDT

Cut out frozen meals
Frozen food containers are mostly plastic. Try to cook your own meals as much as you can. It's healthier, you'll feel better and the planet will appreciate it!

A post shared by Lindsay Ostrom (@pinchofyum) on Aug 28, 2017 at 10:25am PDT

Buy non-perishable goods in bulk
This goes for food and drink as well as cleaning supplies, personal care products, hardware items – anything that may come in plastic packaging. Buying in bulk reduces the need to go to the shops as often, and it reduces the amount of plastic used.

A post shared by @madeleinelumley on Nov 20, 2017 at 11:52am PST

Take a trip to your local store or farmers market
It's hard to avoid plastic in a big supermarket. Try to shop on local stores or farmers market where you can take your own bags and containers.

A post shared by Rachel Phipps (@missrachelphipps) on Jan 26, 2015 at 3:49am PST

Never think that your efforts are too little to make a difference! Every small change in our lifestyles can have a major impact in the future.

With knowing comes caring, with caring comes change.

Living a #tuhkanalife with Melissa Rodrigues

2017-11-12T13:10:00.000-06:00

Today we bring you one more special girl who loves living a #tuhkanalife! Meet Melissa Rodrigues, the 24-year-old Florida-based graphic designer and blogger who loves exploring nature, photography and her family.

Get to know more about Melissa and read some fun facts about her below.

Melissa rockin' her Sharp Bikini Top and Tingle Bikini Bottom in Pacific at Riviera Beach, Florida

Facts about me
I’m a 24 year old girl that currently lives in south Florida. When I was 12 years old my dad took my family and moved us to Brazil to a small beach village in the south of the country. My family designed and had our beach house constructed 5 minutes away from one of the best surf beaches in the country. I lived there for 10 years and loved it! Growing up there made me love and appreciate the nature around me so much. After graduating high school I came back to the states to start my college education. I’m currently studying Graphic Design at FAU.

Melissa rockin' her Chillax Bikini Top and Thrill Bikini Bottom in Honey at Royal Palm Beach, Florida

3 things we should know about Florida and Brazil

Florida is a pretty amazing state nature wise! There’s so much to explore. First thing to know about Florida is that it is NOT all just beaches. We have some of the most beautiful springs in central
Florida (Ginnie Springs is one of my favorites, look it up!). A not so cool second fact about Florida is how hot it is all the time. I actually enjoy the hot weather, but sometimes it can be a bit too hot! Lastly, Florida is home to many, and I mean many...retired folks! I think it’s great because I think elderly folks are super cute...so I just stare away and sometimes call them grandma.

Ginnie Springs in High Springs, Florida

Brazil is a pretty amazing country, and again there is so much to explore there too! If you ever go, make time to visit the non touristy places (like the Amazon, which is amazing!). Brazil has some amazing food. Best Acai bowls EVER. No explanation needed. Lastly, Brazil has people that will take you into their homes like you're their own family and it can make you feel pretty special to see how loving they can be.

Macacu Falls in Garopaba, Brazil

We know you love the beach lifestyle, what’s your favorite beach?
This is a tough question! I love so many beaches for so many different reasons. The first one that came to my mind is the local Dania Beach near Fort Lauderdale. That would be one of my favorites just because sometimes the water is SO clear and calm there, it feels like I’m at the Bahamas. It’s also one of my favorite diving spots and I have a lot of good memories there!

You have some really amazing underwater videos. What was the coolest thing you saw underwater?
Another though one hehe. I’ve seen all sorts of little critters underwater and they are all so cool to me. My most favorite was a time I went diving and spotted a family of pufferfish all together in some coral. They looked surprised to see me, but oh so cute! That was my favorite moment and picture of that day!

Pufferfish family spotted while freediving in Florida

Something you are really passionate about
I love photography. I love photographing a moment. Whether it be a place, an animal or even myself when out in nature. Photography for me is something I’m really passionate about because I like to always look back and remember that moment in time.

What’s your favorite way to spend a Saturday?
Usually my favorite way to spend my Saturday is out in nature and exploring. Especially when it’s a super nice day out! I don’t know why but if I stay in doors I feel guilty for not enjoying the beautiful world we have out there.

Melissa exploring Kelly Park in Florida

Melissa having fun in her Sharp Bikini Top and Tingle Bikini Bottom in Pacific at Kelly Park, Florida

Who's the most inspiring person to you?
Overall, I have many people that inspire me everyday. One of them would be my mom. She is always so confident and happy in what she does. I love that! I really appreciate women that are confident in what they do

Something most people don’t know about you?
I was born with 6 fingers. Haha bet you didn’t see that one coming! Really I was. Of course when I was a baby I had it removed (thank goodness for modern day surgery). But maybe if I kept it I would’ve been able to play the piano...hmmm.

If you had a super power to change one thing in the world, what would that be?
I would love to be like a little cupid shooting arrows of compassion and kindness into the hearts of people. I think the world needs more of that nowadays.

Melissa in her Tangled Bikini Top and Tangled Bikini Bottom in Valentine at Jupiter, Florida

Check what Melissa is up to!

Instagram: @melikinis
YouTube: /melikinis
Blog: melikinis.weebly.com

3 Reasons Why You Should Care About Sustainable Fashion

2017-11-05T23:00:00.000-06:00

CC Image courtesy of Kimberly Vardeman on Flickr

We see more people taking action to protect the environment. From recycling to making more informed and conscious choices about what we eat, a new movement of eco-awareness is growing fast.

But what about fashion? Have you ever thought about what your clothes are made of? Are there any toxic chemicals in your clothes? What's the environmental impact of clothing production? We could go on and on...

So, we've put together a list of the biggest benefits of sustainably manufactured clothes to help you make more informed choices about what you wear.

CC Image courtesy of Petras Gagilas on Flickr

It's better for the Planet
The fashion industry is a huge contributor to global pollution and environmental destruction, from the use of chemicals and pesticides, as well as harsh chemicals in dyes, to the energy required to produce each piece. By choosing organic and eco-friendly clothing, you are minimizing your footprint on the world.

It's better for People
Whether on a farm or in a factory, Fair Trade participants must adhere to rigorous standards, covering areas such as safe working conditions, grievance procedures, freedom from harassment, regulated work hours, absence of child labor, freedom of association, and environmental best practices. At its core, Fair Trade puts people at the center of sustainability.

It lasts longer
Find timeless, durable pieces instead of trendy pieces you probably won't wear for too long. Invest in classic shapes, chic silhouettes and foolproof colors that you could still rock for years! Choosing quality over quantity will save energy and resources.

CC Image courtesy of Gabriele Diwald on Flickr

At Tuhkana, the more we learned about sustainability, the more we realized we had to learn. Join us on this journey to create a better tomorrow and a brighter future.

Living a #tuhkanalife with Alexis Plank

2017-10-30T13:51:00.001-05:00

We love seeing you living a #tuhkanalife, and we love sharing that with the world! Meet Alexis Plank, the 22-year-old Austria based blogger who loves traveling the world and hates spending too much time in front of the mirror.

Alexis rocked her Sharp Bikini Top and Tingle Bikini Bottom in Sand and her Saltish Bikini Top and Ripped Bikini Bottom in Top Blue on her last trip to Miami and Mexico.

Get to know more about Alexis and read some fun facts about her below.

Alexis wearing the Sharp Bikini Top and Tingle Bikini Bottom in Sand

Facts about me
My name is Alexis Plank and I live in Tyrol, Austria. I was born in March 1995 and I have three elder sisters. I am 1.64 m small (5 ft 4.57 in) and I hate it! 😊 I graduated college this past August 2017 in economics and tourism. I'm a travel-junkie and my biggest dream is travelling to Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

How do you describe your style?
Simple and comfortable! In the Summer I wear bikinis as often as possible and I hate spending hours in front of the mirror.

Alexis checking the view in Miami Beach, Florida

Last vacation?
Miami and Mexico this Summer for 3 weeks.

Favorite spot on your last vacation?
Holbox Island in Mexico.

Alexis off to get some breakfast in Miami Beach, Florida

Alexis on her way to see the beach in Tulum, Mexico

What are your travel essentials?
A bikini, my boyfriend and oil for hair and skin.

Who inspires you?
Candice Swanepoel.

Next stop?
South Africa!

Alexis wearing the Saltish Bikini Top and Ripped Bikini Bottom in Top Blue

Alexis in Holbox Island, Mexico

Alexis and her boyfriend in Holbox Island, Mexico

Check what Alexis is up to!

Instagram: @alexisplank
Blog: alexisplank.de

'Use My Body' with Tuhkana Swimwear

2017-10-20T14:00:00.000-05:00

This Summer we got an amazing invite from Alpha Heroes to feature some of our bikinis and swimsuits in their latest music video for the song 'Use My Body' (feat. Mickey Shiloh) in collaboration with Dj Derezon. We said "Yaaaaas!"

Check the video below (this music is SO catchy!) and show your support to this talented Portuguese duo.

Instagram: @alphaheroes_

YouTube: /alphaheroes

SoundCloud: /alphaheroes

First Things First

2017-10-14T15:00:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, and welcome to Tuhkana's Notebook!

We've been thinking about starting a blog for a while and we finally decided it was time to give it a go. We want to share what inspires us, the people we admire and the things we care about. I hope we can inspire you too!

But first, let me tell you how it all began...

Rute Ribeiro Martins, founder of Tuhkana Swimwear

My name is Rute Ribeiro Martins and I'm the founder of Tuhkana Swimwear. I was born and raised in sunny Lisbon, Portugal — the ocean is part of our identity, and the beach is a place we all love.

Back in 2013, me and my husband moved to Dublin, Ireland. The lack of sunny days in Dublin and feeling homesick all the time was the spark that started it all. I knew I wanted to create something special. And I knew my brand would have to embody the same principles I follow, by respecting our planet the same way I do (or at least try to). So in the Summer of 2014, after a trip to Portugal with friends, I finally decided it was time to make it happen.

Isabel Saldanha on the 2015 photoshoot in Portugal

Dusk One-Piece from the 2015 photoshoot in Portugal

Tuhkana was born in 2015 with a sustainable mindset and the ambition to become a global brand.

In 2016 we moved again but this time to Chicago, Illinois (I know, I know… you must be thinking “...but isn't Chicago even colder than Dublin!?”) Chicago is super cold in the Winter but the Summer here is so nice and beautiful… Maybe I should talk about that in a future post.

From the 2016 photoshoot in Key Biscayne, Florida

Gabe Media on the 2016 photoshoot in Key Biscayne, Florida

So far, this journey has been a wonderful experience. I've met amazing and inspiring people and it has been a constant learning process. I feel really humbled and grateful to have the opportunity to do what I love and having amazing people around me who always push me to pursue my dreams and do better.

I really hope you enjoy reading our blog as much as we enjoy writing it! Share your thoughts or anything you'd like to know about us on the comments below.

Thanks for all the love and support we get every day.

Stay tuned for more soon!

– Rute