My curly hair has always been something I struggled with.  Growing up bi-racial, my mom had no idea how to style or deal with my crazy curly hair. After 25 years of having curly hair, I can proudly say I know how to brush and style my locks. Getting my curls to where they are today was no easy task.

I would go back to the Heidelberg Suites each weekend if I could.  It's such a relaxing and beautiful hotel with the perfect location overlooking the Nekar and Heidleberg Castle.  It was almost a pity how much time we spent in our room with all of the lovely Christmas activity going on. However,  it was just that great of a space, hot chocolate barely got me to leave -- it was the perfect suite.

Living in Germany definitely has it perks.  After being here for almost 16 months, I've learned to love some of the German ways of living. I'm still getting used to following rules, turning my bicycle light on at night and not recycling on Sunday. Overall this country has some pretty great things about it and I feel lucky to experience them. As the time goes on, I'm learning to appreciate what I once thought was a "weird German thing" and even becoming more German like myself.

Between walking through the chaotic souks, visiting the beautiful jardins, and a day trip to the mountains and desert, Marrakech was one of the most amazing trips I have had to date.  Sharing a quick video of our time in Marrakech, Morocco and the surrounding areas.

Known as the "Venice of the North", Bruges is a city that takes you back to the 14th century with its beautiful canals, horse drawn carriages, and medieval architecture.  Bruges has long been on my list of weekend trips since our move to Germany.  With it being only a short, 4 hour drive away, I knew we had to spend some time in this romantic city.

When searching for a hotel in Heidelberg, Germany I knew I wanted to stay in a place that shared the magic and charm of the city.  Which, to be honest, is setting the bar pretty high, because Heidelberg is one the most charming cities I have visited yet.  Europäischer Hof Hotel was not only gorgeous, but also provided the historical charm I was looking for in a hotel.

Until I find a magic potion or solution, make-up is my go-to way to feel more confident in my acne-prone and scarred skin. I am super passionate about the power of make-up and how it can make a person feel (especially someone with bad acne and unruly skin). I know there are so many strong opinions on make-up out there. I totally understand both sides, but for me, this is what works! 

Since living in Germany, flying to America and back has been a priority for me so I can still see family and friends.  However, if I had to pay $1,500/ticket each time, it would not be feasible to travel as often. Thankfully, I've found a way to get to America and back to Germany (and other parts of Europe), for just $350 round-trip. Too good to be true? 

Like with many hotels, my stay at Hotel De Jobo was far too short, but one of the most memorable.  If you're looking for a unique and ravishing experience while in Paris, I cannot recommend staying at Hotel De Jobo enough.  You will not be disappointed and it'll provide the Parisian experience one should have while in this wildly romantic European city.

The Cliffs of Moher of Ireland were absolutely incredible to see in person. They were one of the many highlights and my favorite place we visited while in Ireland. It was an unforgettable experience and one that I will forever cherish. If you're in Ireland, I cannot stress enough how worth it is to drive to the west coast and see these beautiful cliffs!

Hotel Saint Marc was recently opened in the spring of 2016.  The design is sleek, modern, and bold -- each room has it's own personal flair.  The pastel colors were gorgeous and inviting, the champagne pink wardrobe doors in my room were one of my favorite touches. 

Welcome to my first series of "Life in Germany", this will be a monthly update of any and all things Germany. It's an idea I have had for a while and is long overdue, better late than never?

One of my favorite things about living in Germany is by far the Autobahn. Before I moved to Germany, I thought the Autobahn was just one road somewhere in the middle of Germany. Kind of like a touristy spot where people rented BMWs and drove fast.

I find it so important to find a hotel or accommodation in a city that truly reflects the place you are visiting.  Ellington Hotel Berlin did just that.

As soon as you walk into this 1920s building, you feel welcomed and invited in this bright and trendy space.  The space is big and open, but some how still cozy. One of my favorite features of the hotel is the brass detailing along the windows and walls -- so gorgeous.

Living abroad has been amazing, so don't get me wrong by the title of this article.  However, I find it important to share that it is not always eating gelato and riding my bike with a baguette under my arm through Germany.  Living abroad is full of those magical moments, but also the frustrating ones, too. Sharing with you all the 5 hardest parts of living abroad this past year.

SheIn, for those of you that might not know, is an online shopping website with a huge inventory at crazy low prices (seems too good to be true).  Is it? I first ran across SheIn from seeing other bloggers rave about their perfect finds and how they just got a dozen items for under $100. This girl loves a good steal. So, naturally, I did some investigation to figure out if this was some scam or the best news since Target's clothing line upped its game.

When looking for hotels these are always the priorities: well priced, convenient location, and cute atmosphere (because that's the most important). Who wants to stay in a space that doesn't have the right aesthetic and feel? Not this girl. While doing my research, I stumbled across Hotel2Stay, a new hotel next to Sloterdijk train station -- which was perfect for me because I always take the train from Germany to that exact station. 

My camera goes with me everywhere, I mean everywhere. So, when picking out the right camera, lens, and equipment I wanted to make sure I was absolutely certain before making such a big investment. Also, having lightweight gear was at the top of my list because of all the traveling I do (and who wants to have a sore neck?). 

Just a little over an hour drive south of Munich you'll find the beautiful Eibsee Lake in Bavaria near Garmisch and Zugspitze Mountain.  If you're visiting Munich for a few days or in the area this should really be at the top of your list on places to see. 

Oh, Munich.  The heart of Bavarian culture, delicious German bier, heavy food, and so close to the mountains.  Really the perfect spot for anyone looking for a true German experience (the Northern Germans will not appreciate me saying that ;) ).

Scotland's beautiful & historical capital Edinburgh is a city well worth a visit.  It's a city rich with culture, delicious fish & chips, authentic whiskey, ancient castles, and some of the friendliest people I have met to date.  I can totally see why J.K. Rowling took much of her inspiration from this city sitting on the hills.