{take me away № 27 | mykonos, greece}

According to Greek mythology, the beautiful island of Mykonos [/ˈmiːkənɒs/] was once the very scene of the mythical battle held between Zeus and the Titans, and so named, in honour of Apollo's grandson, Mykon. Mykonos is located near the sacred island of Delos and the island of Rhenia, which are all encompassed in the group of Greek islands referred to as the Cyclades. Perhaps smaller that one would estimate, the island's population is only about 9,000, and yet, Mykonos attracts thousands upon thousands of visitors each year. And is it any wonder?



To reach Mykonos, one can arrive by sea or by air. But do be warned, you may feel completely overwhelmed with its intoxicating beauty upon arrival. Indeed, your camera will likely become your closest companion, as you take in the mosaic of hues that makes up the Aegean Sea, with colorful boats, scattered about the water's edge, or floating along. And just as inspiring is the rather charming Cycladic architecture that trails up the cliff side and over, awash in pure white and linen-like: fresh, imperfect, and entirely livable. Brightly colored shutters, doors and building tops break up the whites, but perhaps most refreshing, are the potted flowers and plants, that spill over into courtyards, and frame windows and tiny balconies, and often completely unexpected along tiny pathways.





An ever-connecting maze of narrow stonewashed streets created long, long ago to confuse unwanted raiders, and to help protect the city, wind about, but today, create the charming allure of surprise—step through an archway and up the hill, and you may discover the iconic chapel of Panagia Paraportiani [the most photographed church on the island] located in Chora, dating back to the 15th century. Or perhaps you will come across the series of windmills that were first established in the 16th century. For there are a number of museums, hidden piazzas, water wells, lovely little cafés and restaurants, inviting shops, artists [you might discover a beautiful painting to bring home with you] and artisans to discover. Dash about the city in a taxi, or if you prefer, by foot, or take a tour and enjoy the breathtaking views from the sea . . .

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{take me away № 26 | the cherry blossoms of tokyo, japan}

Some say that Spring's season brings about some of nature's most magical beginnings, with abundant new life and beauty; and one of the most decadent and much-anticipated pleasures of all, is without a doubt, flowers. Indeed, we find flowers exemplified and their stories told throughout pages and pages of poetry novels, articles, paintings, and many other depictions, studied and explored for hundreds and hundreds of years—they are very much a part of celebration, given as a gesture of love, friendship, of compassion and kindness, found within the deepest reaches of the heart.



For they may be admired from afar in nature, purchased and sold at markets, carefully sown and grown in love. And so, to celebrate Springtime, and the beauty of nature, today we invite you to take a trip with us to one of the greatest cities in the world : Toyko, Japan.



A city that calls many to gather not only for its exciting metropolis [the largest in the world], great technology and respected culture, its delicious food, style, and innovations, but also for its wondrous cherry blossoms, that have brought some to silence and tears, and most certainly, with memories to last a lifetime . . .

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{take me away № 22 | what to pack for paris}

WHAT TO PACK FOR PARIS | march twenty-twelve
concept & words by sarah klassen, editing & image compilation by roséline

Last week, we shared a few favourite places in the city of lights & love, for those with dreams and plans to summer in the Jardin du Luxembourg and the tea rooms of Ladurée, and this week, in answer to all of the requests that have been pouring in over the past few months, thought it might be lovely to include a few tips and suggestions for what to take on such an adventure, and ideas for wonderful little additions to your wardrobe, such as a new scarf you might pick up in a charming shop in Montmartre or a cocktail ring from a vintage shop on a pretty side street, or perhaps your first scent from Hermès.



The memories of your trip will surely follow you home, when your scarf is trailing behind you, as you walk along the beach, reminding you of the most romantic evening along the Seine, or while you are enjoying an evening out with your love, the scent of your new favorite perfume bringing back memories of the most beautiful picnic that the two of you shared in the gardens of Versailles.



Your journey is meant to be fun and full of exploration, discovery and culture—and very much a part of the culture of Paris is the fashion and style of Parisians, with their clever mix of elegance, sexiness and ease. My Mother once taught me, the basics are wonderful and necessary, but you must give them your own twist—your personal touch, be it a chic belt, or a re-interpreted piece of jewelry given to you by your Grandmother.



And while planning for the trip, there are a number of things to consider, from simple comforts that make all of the difference while flying, to unforeseen things that may occur while you are out & about exploring this magical city. And so, today we explore these things, to help insure that you have a most pleasant and most memorable trip . . .

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{favourite five : an interview with florist, nicolette camille}

"flowers... are a proud assertion that a ray of beauty outvalues all the utilities of the world"

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

With the promise of spring just around the corner, can not help but daydream of the perfect beauty of blossoming rose gardens and picnics in wildflower fields, afternoon teas on the terrace, overflowing with wisteria and nearly every corner of the house filled with favourite blooms . . .

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{take me away № 21 | city guides № 1 : paris}

At the very centre—the heart, soul and jewel of France, we find Paris . . . Paris in all of its overwhelming magic and allure. Paris that, perhaps of all places around the globe, of all the islands and coasts, extraordinary mountains, cities, and countrysides, might just be the most dreamed about of them all. And is it with any wonder? Enveloping the experience of l'art de vivre is a rosy hue, a hue only seen while you are there [long remembered and forever held in the heart], swept up in the magic of the city of lights. Here, for hundreds of years, thousands and thousands of visitors near and far have traveled to visit, to live, [even if just for the day] amongst all that is Paris.



Here we find perfectly imperfect cobblestone streets, many offset by poetically tilted and beautifully aged architecture, and as we walk, we quietly take in the unabashed beauty and élan, as elegant & effortlessly stylish women pass by; an older man, pedaling along on his bicyclette, en route to the barber may bring on a smile—indeed, a postcard sight; ladies immersed in each other's company, tucked in bold red chairs at a quaint café, back and forth they speak, in reverent conversation; or peek into the windows of elegantly merchandised shop windows, seductively showcasing handmade merchandise, created with skills perfected centuries ago. A host of streets may call you to stroll, looking up as you go, at the decorated facades, noticing a tiny pot with a cheerful blossom tucked into the tiniest of nooks. Not so unlike Paris, where charm abounds—charm and quality, hand in hand—be it fine foods or perfumes, fundamental manners & etiquette, or tying a scarf with flair.



Perhaps it's passion? Perhaps it's Paris. A city unlike any other, Paris calls creatives to create, lovers in love, and explores to explore . . . for those with an appetite to discover and to learn may discover a convergence of past and present, and may lose themselves forever, never to be the same. And so, today we warmly invite you to join us as we visit some of the most memorable places, and share some of best kept secrets in our address book of Paris . . .

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{take me away № 16 | valentine's inspiration for a romantic getaway}

Love is in the air, as they say, particularly as we are approaching what is, arguably, the most romantic month of the entire year: February. But romance is certainly not limited to a single day, or month for that matter, as the very words, love and romance inspire hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of sonnets and ballads, songs, paintings, and notes and declarations at any given time.



For love is entirely a matter of the heart, apart from all that is grounded and tangible, and perhaps that is why great minds, for decades, have tried to capture its very essence.



And with the lifting of the winter's cold, afresh with the promise of Spring, we may welcome romance in all its forms, be it a quick expression of appreciation, written by hand, and left on the bedside table, or a dazzling bouquet of fragrant blossoms wrapped in tissue, or the simple joy of spending time walking, in the intimacy of fresh air, talking and dreaming together . . .

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{style inspiration | on the vanity & in the makeup kit : a few favourites}

. . . one of the fondest memories of growing up was my mother's movie-star dressing rooms -- enormous and luxurious, and with those pretty white lights that trail all the way around the large looking glass above the vanity, upon which was always a beautiful scattering of perfume bottles and golden hairpins, and every kind of beauty product one could possibly imagine -- it was a most magical place for a little girl, and needless to say, spent many, many hours utterly lost in spritzes of heady perfume, dustings of silvery eyeshadows and dashes of lipstick, and watching my mother get ready for dinner parties and evening soirées . . .



. . . and as there have been so many requests, thought it might be lovely, [with a little winter light & p's stunning photography], to share a glimpse of a few favourite things on the vanity and of the moment . . .

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{take me away № 10 | holiday etiquette : part two}

Whether you are traveling or will remain at home this Christmas, it is always thoughtful to think of those whose services you require on a regular basis, for a well-mannered traveler is always grateful for good service.



Beyond a spoken thank you, tipping is essential in many cases, and for services above and beyond, a handwritten thank you note is always an elegant and appreciative touch.



As for your regular go-to services at home, it is a wonderful gesture to acknowledge their continuous service during the holidays . . .

[as a follow-up to {take me away № 08 | holiday etiquette}, in this article, sarah discusses the topic of tipping while traveling and provides a useful reference guide]

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{favourite five: sasha plavsic, founder of ilia}

"I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick."

~ Audrey Hepburn

Perhaps every girl's first makeup memory is trying on lipstick as a child, in an attempt to rush into the world of grown-ups: a whirlwind of galas and coffee dates and afternoons spent shopping -- all while donning a stunning crimson rouge à lèvres . . .


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{take me away № 08 | holiday etiquette}

{hosting & being a house guest }

At many points throughout the year, we may welcome guests to stay in our homes as well as be guests in others’ homes, but particularly so with the holidays just around the corner.



And whether you will be living with friends or family during such time, it is always lovely to be both a generous and welcoming host, as well as a considerate guest.



For this week's {take me away}, we shall explore different tips and ideas on how to be gracious in both circumstances . . .

[click below to read sarah's thoughtful tips for being a welcoming hostess, as well as a gracious guest this holiday season] x

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{how to : iphone photography & favourite apps}

. . . it has been said that the best camera is the one you have with you, and with all the running around these days, and always so many lovely things to capture while traipsing about, often the only camera on hand is my iphone, which have come to rely on more and more for so many things, but especially the camera; and since joining instagram some time ago, have been having the loveliest time sharing little glimpses here and there, of everyday life, and have been asked, time and again, about the photographs in my stream -- how to split images into frames, how to get that dreamy, romantic sparkle, and so on -- and so, thought it might be fun to share a few favourite apps along the way . . .

{p.s.} for those not using iphones & apps, you can view the photographs online with: instagrid // heroku // followgram


lyon in the rain // instagram with toaster filter





"Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever . . . it remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything."

~ Aaron Siskind

above, instagram filters : early bird & toaster


T W E L V E F A V O U R I T E A P P S

. . . normally only use two or three apps other than instagram, but p prefers to play around with a broader range, and so, a few of our favourites:

1. accu camera : to steady shots
2. shake it : for polaroid-like effects
3. ps express : for cropping & rotating images
4. snapspeed : a powerful app for selective photo edits & filters
5. instagram : for filters & sharing
6. pro hdr : for combining two of the same images to extend the dynamic range
7. picfx : for filters & favourite {this is glamorous} bokeh effects
8. lens flare : for a large collection of amazing lens flare effects
9. pic frame : to split images into separate frames & create collages
10. toy slr : for creating focus & blur
11. picture show : fun exposures & mirror filters
12. dramatic black & white : for converting images to black & white and adding sharpness

chandelier // apps used: instagram with toaster filter, picframe & picfx




a few favourite things // intsagram with toaster filter


light effects of image on the right, created with picfx


door in geneva // apps used: instagram, picframe & picfx




the window seat of an airplane // instagram with early bird filter, no light effects, only the magical reflection of the sun's golden rays . . .
morning latte // apps used: instagram, picframe & picfx



self-portrait: vintage necklace & french dots //instagram with toaster filter



iOS 5 : new & updated features

1. press the up volume button to take a photo
2. access the camera from the lock screen by double tapping the home screen and touching the camera icon
3. when taking a picture, touch on the screen where you want the exposure and focus to be measured from
4. turn on the grid from the options tab, which can help with composition and to keep your image straight
5. use two fingers to pinch the screen to access the zoom feature

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. . . and may have missed a few -- would love to know the favourite apps you're currently using?

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{images: all iphone photography by roséline on instagram}