What to Bring to the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon was one of the most incredible experiences that I will never forget.  It’s definitely the most unique spa I’ve been to.  Before I dive in to what I packed, I want to mention that my fiance and I were there for a 4 hour time slot and we got the Retreat Spa package.

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The Retreat Spa package includes a private changing room for 1-2 people, bathrobes, sandals (I think they use slippers in the winter), a free drink for each person, bathroom products (shampoo, conditioner, face wash, body wash, body lotion, and face moisturizer), access to the private lagoon, and and Blue Lagoon Ritual (a full body scrub, full body silica mask, and full body algae mask).

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The Packing List

Swimsuits

Sunscreen

Hair Tie

Something to store jewelry (you cannot wear jewelry in the water)

Hair Brush

Deodorant

Hair styling products (there is a straightener and blow dryer in the changing room)

 

Tips

The silica in the water can be VERY drying on your hair.  They recommend you put your hair up with conditioner in it.  However, they do have a hair mask you can ask to use.

My fiance used the hair mask in his beard but you may want to pack beard oil.

For the privacy of guests, they do not let you use phones or cameras in the spa (you must leave them in the changing room).  They do offer to take photos of you and email them to you.  You can also access the main pool where you can take photos.

The Moss restaurant is attached to the spa and you can enjoy drinks in the pool or the restaurant.  The sushi is amazing!

 

 

Iceland Packing List for a Trip to Iceland in Spring & Summer

I had the most incredible time in Iceland!  It was definitely the most incredible vacation I’ve ever had.  I still cannot believe I’m engaged.

This is the generalized packing list. I was there for a 5 days.  Some of these items are for specific things I did while I was there, which I will note.  Much like Colorado, Iceland weather can change so I brought versatile pieces.  The temperature was around 53 degrees Fahrenheit there.  We had a little bit of rain but mostly beautiful sunny skies. I won’t be sharing my toiletry list because that’s really specific to each person.

 

What I’ll be wearing on the plane:

Sneakers

Leggings

T Shirt

Cardigan

What My Boyfriend will wear on the plane:

Jeans

T Shirt

Sneakers

Fleece Jacket

 

What I’m Packing in the Checked Bag:

Sandals for both of us (we might use these at the Blue Lagoon but the package we purchased does provide slippers)

Rain Boots for Myself

Rain Jacket for Myself

Jeans for Myself

Sweaters for Myself

Pajamas for Myself

Flannel Shirts for John

T shirt (mostly for lounging in but also in case we have an unusually warm day) For John

Gym Shorts (for lounging in the hotel) For John

Rain Jacket For John

Pool Bag (I’ll need this to pack our swimsuits, sandals, and other items for the Blue Lagoon)

Makeup

 

What I’m packing in our Carry-On

Socks, underwear, and bras (we will each need 2 pairs of wool socks for when we snorkel in Silfra)

Base Layer for each of us

Our Swimsuits

Skincare and other non-makeup toiletries

 

In Our Personal Item

Sleep Masks (for the plane and also because there will be nearly 24 hours of daylight there)

Travel Pillows

Every day items like wallets, sunglasses, and eyeglasses

 

 

 

I will be posting a packing list specifically for the Blue Lagoon on Thursday 5/30.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hot Climate Clothing

I grew up in the scorching heat of Southern California, so it’s safe to safe I’m familiar with what to wear on unbearably hot days.  I’ve learned that its not about the cut or style of clothing, but about the fabric.  You can’t go wrong with light cottons, linens, or chiffon.  I gravitate towards chiffon because it drapes beautifully, and cotton because it does not wrinkly like linen does. Below are some unexpected hot climate clothing items that you need in your wardrobe.

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1. Revolve Kimono 2. Lulus Dress 3. H&M Shirt 4. Y.A.S Caftan 5. All In Favor Dress 6. Curve 360 by NYDJ Top

Control Corrective Sulfur Mask Review

I haven’t done a beauty review on my blog in ages.  In fact, I’m not sure I’ve ever reviewed a mask before.  Masks are a huge part of my skincare/self care routine.  If you use the right mask for your skin it could make a huge difference.  I use a mask at least once a week (although I try for 3 times a week).  The beauty industry is saturated with masks for oily/acne prone skin which makes finding the right mask a little challenging.

With lots of trial an error, over the years I’ve learned which ingredients do wonders for my skin.  Sulfur is something I’ve found works well for my skin.  However, sulfur products are not common.

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I’ve been in love with the Control Corrective Oil-Free Sunscreen for years now.  I was ecstatic when I found out Control Corrective has a Sulfur Mask.  Naturally, I immediate ordered it.

I’ve been using this mask for about a month now, and I’m loving it!  This mask claims to be calming.  I was skeptical because the only other calming mud masks I’ve found is from GlamGlow. It truly is calming though!

Another thing I love about this product is that it contains kaolin clay.  This is another ingredient I’ve found works well for my skin.

This mask is perfect for anyone that has oily/acne prone skin and also has sensitive skin.  This is an effective product that is also relatively gentle.  I wouldn’t consider this to be a gentle mask but for a mud mask it’s relatively gentle.

Pesto Chicken Recipe

I am so excited to be sharing one of my favorite recipes!  This chicken recipe is easy, inexpensive, and delicious!  This is not a pretty or Instagram worthy recipe.  This recipe has become a staple in my house.  It’s the perfect weeknight recipe.  I love it so much I probably make it once a month.

Ingredients

1 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

3/4 cup pesto

1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (or more if you prefer more)

 

Directions

Marinate chicken in pesto for at least 3 hours.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pour panko bread crumbs into a shallow dish.

Coat marinated chicken breasts in the bread crumbs.

Cook chicken breasts for about 15 minutes, then remove from oven.  Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on chicken.

Place the chicken back in the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes.

 

Enjoy!