Why Buenos Aires Feels Like Europe (Without the Jet Lag)
There are certain cities that feel familiar the moment you arrive—and Buenos Aires is one of them.
My first image of the city is a quiet, elegant street anchored by the iconic Alvear Palace Hotel—arguably the most recognized hotel in the city, and the starting point for many luxury journeys, including those with Seabourn. It’s the kind of place that immediately sets the tone: refined, historic, unmistakably European.
And yet, just a few blocks away, I chose something far more intimate.
Where to Stay in Buenos Aires: A Boutique Hotel in Recoleta
Tucked into one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the city, Algodon Mansion feels less like a hotel and more like a private residence.
With only nine suites, it offers a level of quiet luxury that’s increasingly rare.
Everything about the experience was thoughtful and understated—from the scale of the property to the personalized service. It was, quite simply, exceptional.
Recoleta: The Most European Neighborhood in Buenos Aires
The Recoleta neighborhood is where Buenos Aires reveals its most European self.
Wide, walkable streets
Elegant architecture
A rhythm that feels more Paris or Madrid than South America
If you’ve ever wanted a European escape without the transatlantic flight—or the jet lag—this is it.
The bakeries, cafés, and carefully curated storefronts carry a sense of history that hasn’t been polished away—only preserved.
Hidden Gems in Buenos Aires: Antique Shops & Local History
At one point, I wandered into a small alley lined with shops—each one filled with silver, fine china, and heirloom pieces.
Many, I was told, came from families who had lost everything during more difficult periods in the country’s past.
There was something deeply moving about that—history not in a museum, but quietly woven into everyday life.
A Personal Connection to Buenos Aires
This trip carried a deeper meaning for me.
I brought my husband so he could begin to understand my background—to see a place that shaped me in ways that are difficult to put into words.
Walking through parks where I once played as a child, sharing those spaces with him, gave the experience a sense of continuity—past meeting present in the most natural way.
Why Hiring a Private Guide in Buenos Aires Changes Everything
A great guide can completely shape your understanding of a place.
I was incredibly fortunate to spend time with Marcos Pasini of Magical Experiences—knowledgeable, thoughtful, and deeply intuitive.
He brought the city to life in a way that felt both personal and expansive.
Is Buenos Aires Safe? Travel Tips from the U.S.
Travel from the U.S. is simpler than you might expect.
Flying nonstop from Dallas makes the journey feel surprisingly accessible—and perhaps most unexpectedly, there’s very little jet lag to contend with.
Even more reassuring: everywhere I went felt safe, comfortable, and welcoming.
Buenos Aires doesn’t feel like a place you have to “figure out.” It feels like a place you can simply enjoy.
Argentina Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go
Argentina is vast—far larger and more geographically diverse than many expect.
From cosmopolitan cities to glaciers, vineyards, and subtropical waterfalls, the range of landscapes is extraordinary.
While getting there is relatively easy, traveling within the country requires a bit more planning.
Distances are significant, and flying between regions is often the most practical way to experience it fully.
Travel Resources for Buenos Aires & Argentina
Where to Stay
Algodon Mansion — An intimate, nine-suite boutique hotel in Recoleta
Alvear Palace Hotel — A historic luxury landmark in Buenos Aires
Private Guide
Marcos Pasini — Magical Experiences
Getting There
Nonstop flights from Dallas to Buenos Aires
Domestic Travel Tip
Argentina is vast, and flying between regions is essential.
Airlines like JetSMART operate on a low-cost model—full flights, limited seating comfort, and minimal amenities.
It takes a bit of strategy, but it’s what makes exploring the country possible.
Getting dressed for an afternoon like this felt like stepping into a moment.
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a beautiful garden party hosted by Milly at the breathtaking Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas—truly one of the most inspiring spaces the city has to offer.
An Afternoon of Effortless Elegance
From the moment I arrived, everything felt thoughtfully curated. The setting alone—where art, nature, and architecture meet—created the most serene and elevated backdrop.
There’s something about the Nasher that invites you to slow down and take it all in.
A Style Moment I Won’t Forget
One of my favorite moments of the afternoon was being photographed alongside the models—all of us wearing the same Milly print.
It was such a fun and unexpected experience, and a beautiful reminder that style has no age—it’s about how you wear it and how it makes you feel.
I felt completely myself in this dress—elegant, confident, and comfortable.
Milly and the Fashion Institute of Dallas created an experience that felt both elevated and welcoming.
From the beautiful touches by Colleen Rothschild Beauty to the refreshing cocktails and the most generous goodie bag, every detail added to the magic of the day.
A Must-Visit in Dallas
If you ever find yourself in Dallas, the Nasher Sculpture Center is absolutely worth experiencing.
It’s one of those rare places where art, nature, and style come together so seamlessly.
A perfect setting for a truly memorable afternoon.
The Outnet: Our Secret Source for Chic Travel Fashion
As a wardrobe stylist (and Sonia’s daughter!), I’m always on the hunt for fashion that feels both timeless and fresh. ANd any time I get together with my mom, it’s no exception! For our recent mother-daughter trip to New York City, I turned to The Outnet, one of my favorite online destinations for luxury fashion at incredible prices.
Our adventures started in Utah where I met my mom to begin our New York adventure. And like every stylist worth their salt, I had to make the most of our time together by planning for outfits and photos ops. That’s where this incredible Valentnio dress comes into the chat! I found this dynamic hot pink dress on the Outnet and WOW it was a statement. I had a vision to pair this incredible dress with the vast backdrop of Utah and mom knew just the spot!
For those who aren’t familiar, The Outnet is part of the Net-a-Porter family, offering designer clothing and accessories at up to 70% off. It’s truly a stylist’s dream—whether you’re looking for a statement piece, updating your basics, or investing in something special without paying full retail.
When I pack for a trip, versatility is key. Every piece has to earn its place in my suitcase, and The Outnet fashion finds I selected for New York did just that. From elegant evening wear for dinner at Cipriani Soho to effortless day looks for exploring the High Line, these outfits carried me seamlessly through the trip and beyond.
I’ll be sharing photos from our time in New York along with direct links to shop each look—perfect if you’re searching for affordable luxury fashion that blends style, comfort, and quality. Whether you’re planning your own city getaway or just refreshing your wardrobe, I hope this roundup gives you inspiration and makes your next shopping experience a little easier.
Have you shopped at The Outnet before? If not, I highly recommend exploring it—you might be surprised at the gems you’ll find. Just check “my favorites” on the site if you need inspiration to start your own. Comment below with your favorite designer brands to shop on sale, and let me know which of my New York City looks you’d love to wear!
Three Days in New York City: A Mother-Daughter Travel Experience
There is something so special about sharing travel experiences with loved ones, and my recent trip to New York City with my daughter Serena is one I will cherish forever.
We were honored to be there for an exciting campaign (details coming soon!) and had the opportunity to stay at the stunning Baccarat Hotel. From the moment we arrived, we were treated with such warmth and care. If you ever get the chance to stay there, I cannot recommend it enough—it’s truly an unforgettable luxury travel experience in New York City.
Our whirlwind trip lasted just three days, but we filled it with special moments:
Day 1 – Dinner in Soho
On our first evening, we dined at Cipriani Soho on Broadway. Fast, fun, and lively, it was the perfect start to our mother-daughter adventure in NYC. And the food? A major “chef kiss “
Day 2 – A Full Day of Work and Connection
The next day was a full work day. Serena and I had so much fun with the crew on set, and the energy of New York fashion and style gave us the perfect backdrop. Later that evening, we enjoyed dinner back at the Baccarat with my dear friend Tiffany Blackmon, a fellow influencer and prolific podcast also travelling with her daughter, Kennedy. The evening was full of laughter, conversation, and connection.
Day 3 – Chelsea Hotel & The High Line
On our last day, we made time to visit the Chelsea Hotel, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and take in the beauty of the High Line in New York City. These simple experiences reminded us why we love traveling together—every shared moment becomes a cherished memory.
Though the trip was short, it left us both inspired, connected, and full of gratitude.
Have you ever taken a mother-daughter trip? What’s your favorite destination for creating special memories with family? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear your stories!
And if you’re planning your own Mother Daughter trip, be sure to check out our other adventures! Like our trip to Sedona last year.
When it comes to skincare that feels like a ritual and delivers visible results, La Mer is in a league of its own…
With origins as storied as the sea it draws from, this brand was born from the vision of aerospace physicist Dr. Max Huber. After suffering burns in a lab accident, he spent 12 years and over 6,000 experiments developing what would become La Mer’s signature Miracle Broth™—a bio-fermented elixir infused with sea kelp and other nutrient-rich ingredients. Today, that same broth powers every product in the line.
But let’s talk about the real question: Is it worth the price? In my experience—absolutely.
As someone who is meticulous about skincare and deeply values quality over quantity, I’ve put La Mer’s line to the test in my real, everyday routine. And what I’ve come to realize is this:
Cost Per Use = Value Per Drop
Yes, the jars are an investment, but when used properly, they last longer than you’d expect—because a little truly goes a long way. Here’s what I’ve found worth every penny:
The Miracle Broth™ – The Heart of the Brand
This powerhouse isn’t just an ingredient—it’s an experience. The soothing, regenerative effect of the Miracle Broth is present in every cream, and it shows. Think resilience, radiance, and repair.
The Moisturizing Soft Cream (Day Cream)
Lightweight yet deeply hydrating, this cream gives me a beautiful glow under makeup and keeps my skin supple throughout the day. I use just a pearl-sized amount each morning, which means a single jar easily lasts me 4–5 months.
The Crème de la Mer (Night Cream)
This is my holy grail. Rich, decadent, and transformative, I warm it between my fingers and press it gently into my skin at night. It melts in like a treatment mask, and by morning, my skin looks plumped, calm, and visibly restored. Again, a little goes a long way—making the cost per use incredibly reasonable for the results it delivers.
The Neck and Décolleté Concentrate
The often-neglected area of the neck and chest deserves better. This luxurious cream firms and smooths the delicate skin below the chin, and over time I’ve noticed a visible difference in tone and texture. If you’re over 50 like I am, this step is a must—not a maybe.
My Verdict
La Mer doesn’t just feel indulgent—it’s effective, especially for mature skin that needs moisture, elasticity, and radiance. And when you consider how far each product goes, the cost per use becomes not just justifiable—but smart. I treat it like fine cashmere for my face: something I reach for every day because I know it will never let me down.
If you’re investing in yourself and your skin, La Mer is the kind of quiet luxury that shows up in all the right ways—day after day, night after night.
As a woman in her 70s, I’ve heard it all—“Aren’t heels uncomfortable?” “You still wear those?” But here’s the truth: I’m never giving up my heels. They make me feel confident, feminine, and put-together.
That said, I have learned to compromise over the years—especially when it comes to heel height and foot health. Whether you’re 30 or 70, your heel height should complement your lifestyle, comfort, and personal style. And yes, there is a sweet spot for every age.
Let’s break it down.
Best Heel Heights by Age (But Always Wear What Feels Right to You)
In Your 30s:
This is the decade of doing it all—careers, travel, motherhood, maybe all at once. Block heels and platforms are your best friend here. Look for 2.5″ to 3.5″ heels that give you height and stability without sacrificing style.
Try:The Sara from Inez—a 3.5″ block heel that’s chic, modern, and incredibly wearable.
In Your 40s:
Comfort begins to win more battles than trends. At this stage, kitten heels and mid-heels (1.5″ to 2.5″) strike the perfect balance. They elongate the leg while supporting the arch, making them ideal for everything from school pickups to client meetings.
Try:The Isla from Inez—a sculpted 2.5″ heel pump with built-in comfort technology. You’ll thank me later.
In Your 50s & 60s:
Here’s where we get practical and powerful. Comfort becomes non-negotiable, but style doesn’t go out the window. A low block heel (1″ to 2″) offers all-day ease and timeless elegance. This is also a great time to explore wedges and supportive flats.
Try:The Bea from Inez. Their Spanish craftsmanship and luxurious leathers elevate every outfit—while keeping you on your feet. These kitten heels measure in at 2″ heel height!
In Your 70s and Beyond:
Age is just a number—and so is heel height. I still rock a 2″ heel regularly, but with support and smart design. Look for cushioned footbeds, soft leather, and wider toe boxes to keep your feet happy without compromising style.
My favorite pick:The Sofia from Inez. It’s elegant, supportive, and designed with real women in mind.
Why Inez Shoes?
Partnering with Inez feels like a natural fit. Their heels are thoughtfully designed for women who want comfort without sacrificing aesthetics. Each pair is handcrafted in Spain, blending European craftsmanship with New York City sensibility. Shop their full collection and use code Sonia15Spring25 for 15% off of your order!
Here I am in a classic everyday pump from Inez, The Mia measures in at under 3″ and is perfect for just about any look! Their patented arch support and memory foam cushioning mean no more kicking off your heels halfway through dinner—yes, even if you’ve been wearing them since lunch.
Final Thoughts: Style Beyond Trends
No matter your age, the best heel height is the one that keeps you feeling strong, stylish, and supported. Inez proves that you don’t have to choose between beauty and comfort—especially when you’re dressing for the life you actually live.
After all, great shoes take you great places—and I have no plans of slowing down anytime soon.
Wellness trends come and go, but I’ve always believed in the power of simple, time-tested rituals. One of my favorite ways to begin the day is with a warm, nourishing drink that sets the tone—not just for my digestion, but for my mindset.
Sonia with her morning tonic
This isn’t about quick fixes or “detox” gimmicks. It’s a gentle practice rooted in natural ingredients that support your body and invite mindfulness into your morning routine.
Here’s what’s in my morning tonic:
🍋 Fresh Lemon
Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps support immune health and skin glow. It also stimulates digestion and helps alkalize the body, despite its natural acidity. I love the fresh, clean brightness it brings to the drink—it feels like a little sunshine in a cup.
🍯 Raw Honey
A touch of raw honey adds natural sweetness while offering antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It’s also a beautiful reminder that wellness doesn’t have to be bitter. Just a teaspoon helps balance the tang of vinegar and lemon, making this feel more like a treat than a tonic.
🍎 Apple Cider Vinegar (with the “Mother”)
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has been used for centuries for its balancing and gut-supportive properties. When taken before meals, it may help with blood sugar regulation, digestion, and appetite control. I always choose raw, unfiltered ACV with the “mother”—a collection of enzymes and beneficial bacteria that form naturally during fermentation.
My Morning Ritual
I drink this warm (never cold) and always before anything else. No coffee, no breakfast—just this quiet, grounding moment.
It’s not about a dramatic transformation. It’s about how small choices—done consistently and with intention—can create a ripple effect of wellness throughout your day.
My Basic Recipe
Juice of half a fresh lemon
1–2 teaspoons raw apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon raw honey
Warm (not boiling) water
Stir gently, sip slowly, and allow yourself a few minutes of stillness. Think of it as a way to hydrate your body and center your mind before the demands of the day begin.
Morning Ritual
Why I Love This Ritual
At this stage of life, my focus isn’t on restriction or chasing youth—it’s about feeling good, staying vibrant, and honoring my body with grace. This ritual is one of those small habits that makes me feel supported, clear-headed, and more connected to myself.
Whether you’re starting your wellness journey or refining it, this is one practice that truly suits wellness at any age.
Have you tried a morning lemon-ACV tonic? I’d love to hear your take or your variation in the comments below.
Here’s to beginning each day with elegance, nourishment, and intention.
What if expert medical care for weight loss, hormone balance, and longevity was just a click away? With Effety, it is. This modern wellness platform brings concierge-style healthcare directly to your door—no waiting rooms, no pharmacy lines, and no hassle.
As someone who deeply values both convenience and high-quality care, I was immediately intrigued. Effecy connects you with board-certified doctors and delivers customized wellness protocols—all managed from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re focusing on weight loss, hormone health, or anti-aging, their approach is designed to support your lifestyle.
When my personalized NAD+ protocol arrived, I knew it had been created with women like me in mind—active, engaged, and committed to evolving well. The packaging was beautiful and discreet, and their support team was responsive and kind—just a message away with any questions I had.
“Since incorporating the Effecy NAD+ spray into my daily routine, I’ve noticed a remarkable shift in my energy and focus—especially during my workouts. At 72, staying active is a huge part of how I live vibrantly and age with intention. This simple addition has helped me feel more present, more energized, and more connected to my body. It’s become a non-negotiable part of my wellness toolkit.”
— Sonia, 72 | Wellness Advocate & Founder of Style Beyond Age
I shared more about my experience in this Instagram reel, where you can see just how seamless and stylish the process is. From the consultation to the delivery, everything felt intentional and empowering.
Whether you’re looking to:
Lose weight
Balance your hormones
Boost energy and mental clarity
Support long-term cellular health and longevity
Effecy offers an elevated, at-home solution designed to meet you exactly where you are in your wellness journey.
Use my link and code Sonia50 for a discount on your first order.
Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing updates and results as I continue my wellness journey with Effecy. Be sure to check out my Instagram highlights for behind-the-scenes content and progress updates.
Ready to take the first step towards a healthier you? Visit Effecty.com and start your journey today.
As we age, our skin needs change, requiring hydration, exfoliation, and sun protection more than ever. The right products can help maintain radiance, elasticity, and smooth texture, no matter your budget. These are my go-to skincare essentials for healthy, youthful-looking skin in your 70s and beyond from exfoliating must-haves to luxurious hand treatments.
1. Exfoliation Is Key: Colleen Rothschild Glycolic Acid Peel Pads
One of the biggest game changers in my routine is exfoliation it helps remove dead skin cells, boost cell turnover, and reveal a fresh, glowing complexion. Colleen Rothschil’s Glycolic Acid Peel Pads are my absolute favorite. They deliver professional-level exfoliation without irritation, leaving my skin smooth, bright, and prepped for serums and moisturizers.
2. A Skincare Line That Does It All: One Skin
When it comes to science-backed skincare, One Skin is at the top of my list. Their body lotion is a standout, it is deeply hydrating and packed with advanced peptides that help improve skin texture and firmness.
I also love their travel packs, perfect for maintaining my skincare routine on the go. If you’re looking for a high-performance, anti-aging skincare line, One Skin is a fantastic investment.
I’ve tried many face masks over the years, but 111SKIN makes the absolute best. Their masks provide deep hydration, firming, and a radiant glow, ideal for mature skin that needs an extra boost. Whether prepping for a special occasion or just giving my skin some TLC, this mask never fails me. They have tons of incredible options, I really love the Celestial Black Diamond Lifting And Firming Face Mask, it tones and tightens like no other!
No matter your age, SPF is non-negotiable and my go-to for years has been Trish McEvoy’s BB Mask SPF 30. I apply it every morning because it’s lightweight, hydrating, and provides broad-spectrum sun protection while giving my skin a natural, radiant finish. If you want a multi-tasking product that hydrates, protects, and evens out skin tone, this is the one.
Our hands often show signs of aging first, which is why I swear by La Mer’s Hand Cream. It’s ultra-nourishing and helps keep my hands smooth, hydrated, and youthful-looking. I keep this in my bag at all times!
Final Thoughts
Looking for skin care that won’t break the bank but still delivers a youthful glow? Consider Cindy Crawford’s Meaningful Beauty. These budget friendly products are perfect for women at any age-whether you’re just beginning your skin care journey with your children or even sharing the secrets with your grandchildren. With meaningful beauty, great skin care is accessible, empowering you to embrace your natural beauty and age gracefully without compromising quality.
Regardless of our age, it’s been my experience that we all want more youthful skin with good texture and a smooth, lifted appearance. This is certainly true for me, but at 72, I know for certain that I’m never going “under the knife.” So, I was thrilled to learn about a new procedure called Ellacor.
What is Ellacor?
Ellacor’s micro-coring procedure is a cutting-edge, non-surgical skin tightening treatment that precisely targets loose or sagging skin. It utilizes a patented device that extracts tiny cores of skin, creating controlled micro-wounds. Unlike traditional skin-tightening methods like lasers or radiofrequency, Ellacor directly removes small portions of the skin without the need for stitches or significant downtime. These micro-cores trigger the body’s natural healing process, stimulating collagen production and encouraging tighter, firmer skin over time.
The procedure is designed to treat moderate to severe skin laxity, particularly in areas like the lower face, cheeks, and neck. What makes Ellacor unique is its ability to achieve natural-looking results without the scarring typically associated with more invasive surgical options like facelifts. Because the micro-wounds are so small, they heal quickly, with visible improvements appearing over the weeks following the treatment. Depending on the individual’s skin condition, multiple sessions may be recommended to achieve optimal results.
Ellacor’s micro-coring technology is FDA-cleared and is gaining attention for offering a minimally invasive solution with less discomfort and quicker recovery compared to traditional skin-tightening procedures. Ideal candidates are those seeking skin rejuvenation without the extended downtime or risks that come with more invasive methods. With noticeable improvements in skin texture and firmness, Ellacor represents a breakthrough in aesthetic skin care for individuals looking for a subtle, yet effective anti-aging treatment.
The internal diameter for each needle is less than 0.5 mm, which is below the threshold for scarring
The device removes micro-cores of skin
A 10mm square can be treated in less than 3 seconds.
Heat is not used in the procedure, so no risk of thermal injury
After the procedure, the body begins a natural healing response and the skin quickly realigns to close the cores
The result is improved skin architecture and natural-looking results
My Experience with Ellacor
Now that you know a little bit more about the procedure, I thought I would give you my personal experience.
Upon arriving for my first treatment, the lower half of my face was numbed. It took about 45 minutes and it was very effective. When the coring procedure started, I was pleasantly surprised that all I could feel was a little pressure and the procedure itself did not take all that long.
Dr. Lisa Pruett at Revival Dermatology in Dallas worked in a grid on the lower portion of my face and slightly under my chin.
After the procedure was over I looked in the mirror and was startled by my appearance. I had that grid pattern markedly on my face, so that afternoon was the perfect time to hide out and not be seen. Surprisingly only one day later, I looked so much better. Check out my highlights from my Instagram account to see what that looked like!
Best of all, I never had any pain post-procedure and by the third day, I was back out and about. Over time, I have seen the skin on my face tightening, which makes sense since the skin is working to cover the coring during the healing process. The skin is not only removed in very tiny amounts but it also triggers new collagen and elastin production which makes my skin appear younger and firmer.
Before and After Results
I loved the results so much that I decided to have a second procedure about two months after the first one. That was about four months ago, and if you take a look below, you can see the results in the before-and-after photos. You can see a marked change in the lift of my skin towards my cheekbone.
Before
After
Notice the skin tightening and rejuvenation around the mouth and the rebalancing and lifting of the cheek.
Before
After
I love seeing the lifting from my chin up towards my cheeks. Note: when my sister says I look better I believe her! We are our own worst critics after all.
Before
After
I continue to be very happy with the Ellacor results. With a non-invasive technique and a short downtime, I achieved the tightening I was looking for. I couldn’t be happier with the results.
Subtle changes make a difference and especially as I age I want to look as rested and natural as possible. Dr. Pruett and the Ellacor system gave me just what I was looking for.
Interested? Contact Dr. Lisa Pruett’s office for a consultation and be sure to mention this blog post for a discount! Revival Dermatology is located at 8201 Preston Road Suite 440 in Dallas, TX. www.revivalderm.com ( 214-675-3227)
Feel free to drop me any questions regarding my results in the comments section.
