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About Me

About Me
CrystalPhuong.net is a Personal Style & Travel Blog based in Singapore, written by Crystal Phuong. The blog was nominated FOUR times in Top 10 Best Fashion Blogs in the annual Singapore Blog Award from 2012- 2015, voted as one of the Best Lifestyle Blogs in Singapore in 2013 by Hotelclub.com, and Best Travel Blogs in 2016 by Foodpanda.com. Crystal hopes to connect and inspire young women to lead a healthy and happy life. Be confident, be positive, and be kind.
Showing posts with label US. Show all posts
Showing posts with label US. Show all posts
9 DAYS IN MINNESOTA

9 DAYS IN MINNESOTA



Around March 2017, I lost my job, and I published this photo on my Instagram with a caption "New day, a new beginning. But first, let's take a break." Indeed, I took this "retrenchment" opportunity to have the longest break I've ever had by far. It was almost four months of traveling nonstop. First, I went to Yogyakarta, Indonesia then flew to Ho Chi Minh for the Vietnam International Fashion Week. After the fashion week, I went back to Hanoi to spend one week with the family before I headed to the US. I was so lucky that I got to travel that much, even when I was unemployed for four months. During this time, I came across some job opportunities, but nothing materialized after a few rounds of interviews. Not sure why, but I wasn't even worried about looking for a job. I just kept believing that the right job would choose me at the right time. Leaving the stress behind, I took 30- hour flight to Maple Grove, Minneapolis, to visit the boyfriend's house for the first time.  

I didn't know what to expect. Many friends asked me, "What's there in Minneapolis?"- "I don't know. I'm going to find out", I told them. Perhaps, because I did not expect anything before the trip, everything turned out to perfect for me.

The weather was beautiful in August in Minneapolis. I started my morning with a cup of coffee, egg, and toast looking at this beautiful backyard. 


Then, we went for a walk around to explore the Maple Grove neighborhood. The air was crisp; the road was empty, and the scenery was breathtaking. I still remember very well how beautiful the houses there. 


During the days that Ken didn't have to go to work, he would show me around his hometown where he grew up either spending time at this giant lake near his house or driving around to see his friends for lunch. 





I remembered my feeling while sitting on that high chair looking at this lake. I kept telling myself, "Everything will be okay in the end. If it's not okay, then it's not the end". My mind was instantly at ease. I was able to enjoy my nine days in Minneapolis without any stress or worry at all. 
One day I went to the largest mall in the US, Mall of America, for shopping and witnessing the largest indoor amusement park, Nickelodeon Universe.







The next day I went river fishing with Ken's nephew. It was my first time fishing in the river, and it felt like I went on an Amazon jungle adventure. It was scary at first and fun later. We also drove up to Duluth, a port city on Lake Superior in Minnesota, and spent a night there. I thought the lake near Ken's house was massive, but it was only a tiny lake compared to the Lake Superior. 



Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes of North America, is also the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area, and the third-largest freshwater lake by volume. Its area is 82,103 km², and I could feel the waves coming towards me. It looked more like an ocean to me than a lake. It didn't feel real. It was also the first time that I saw a span-drive configuration movable lift, aka Aerial Lift Bridge, constructed in 1901-1905. Watching the giants ships passing through the lift each time made me think of the "timing." When the time is right, it will happen.  


Leaving Aerial Lift Bridge, we stopped by at the Split Rock Lighthouse to explore the beauty of the Lake Superior from a different angle. 




Then, we moved to Gooseberry Falls State Park, one of Minnesota's most popular state parks that has many spectacular falls. It didn't disappoint me with this view.   




Few days before I flew home to Singapore, I spent time at the lakehouse with Ken and his family. It was the first time I experienced an evening with a campfire by the lake. A drink on my hand while listening to everyone talk. It was freezing that night for me, but I felt warm from the inside. 


I also tried to learn fishing, but I realized I shouldn't continue; otherwise, people would get hurt. I tried the casting technique, but instead of throwing the bait into the water, my fishing hook landed on Ken's nephew's shirt, who was standing right behind me. He didn't get hurt, and I couldn't stop laughing. 


Time flies when you are having fun. I didn't know when I would revisit Minneapolis then, and I still don't know now. But I know now why they say Minneapolis people are genuine and friendly. If you look at scenery like that every day, how can you stay mad?






Till next time, Minnesota! 
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Crystal Phuong
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NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 2016 TRAVEL DIARY (PART 2)

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 2016 TRAVEL DIARY (PART 2)


New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)- Window view from Fairfield Inn & Suites New York Midtown Manhattan/Penn Station

On day 6 of NYFW, we moved to stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott, a beautiful hotel with free buffet breakfast, free wifi, spacious rooms, and of course, a gorgeous rooftop bar.

(Photo by Mariott) 

Look at this stunning view from the rooftop. 

(Photo by Mariott) 

Besides, it's just right opposite to the Skylight Moynihan Station where NYFW was held, so it was very convenient for me. All I did was to hang out at this beautiful lounge and enjoy some coffee instead of having to stand in heels for an hour for the shows. The coffee and tea are complimentary, by the way. Special thanks to the General Manager & Director, Mark Thomson and Johnson George for having our team at your property during this crazy period of the year! 

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

Day 6 was the most relaxing day of the week. We woke up early, had our breakfast at the hotel, headed out to watch the show and came back to the hotel to rest. In between two shows, we had some time to be tourists for a day, walked around the streets, and did a little bit of shopping. Staying close to one of the main show venues was a game changer for me.

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

Is it me or the flowers in New York always look so much fresher than the ones in Singapore? Besides, it's so much cheaper too.

Day 7 was my most favorite day of the week by far. We were busy moving around the city so much that we didn't have time to eat. But, it was so satisfying.

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

First thing first, an outfit photo shoot at the hotel's rooftop. I saved the best outfit for the last day.

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

The first fashion show of the day was none other than Monique Lhuillier Spring Summer 2017 show. I have been a huge fan of Monique Llhuilier for a long time, so being able to watch her show was such a surreal moment for me. I don't think these photos do any justice to her dresses. The feather, the texture, the lace, the silhouette, everything is pure perfection.

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

 After the show, I had an opportunity to meet the famous fashion designer Monique Lhuillier at backstage, listening her story and inspiration. She was so sweet, beautiful, and friendly. 

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

Bumped into the sweetest actress Jamie Chung at Monique Lhuillier's show. I meant, what's happening! :D

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

After Monique Lhuillier's show, we quickly rushed back to Skylight Moynihan to attend John Paul Ataker Spring Summer 2017. Thanks Misaki Pearls Jewelry & Harper's PR for the invite.

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)


Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

Stunning dresses from John Paul Ataker's collection. I want all of them. 

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (Part 2)

Attending an after-party with the designer himself. 

Crystal Phuong and Fashion Designer John Paul Ataker at the after party, New York Fashion Week

One of the main highlights of this year's NYFW fashion week for me was the opportunity to meet the makeup legend, Bobbi Brown at backstage. Not once, but twice. I first met Bobbi at Jenny Packham's show. Two days later, I saw her again at the Marchesa fashion show. It was surreal. 

Bobbi Brown- Backstage Marchesa Spring Summer 2017

Not only did I see her magic work on the models' face, but also I had an opportunity to talk to her, learn some best makeup tips and tricks, which I already shared with you. 

Crystal Phuong & Bobbi Brown- Backstage Marchesa Spring Summer 2017

Marchesa Spring Summer 2017

Marchesa Spring Summer 2017 was a fairytale-like daydream. Perfection to every detail.

Marchesa Spring Summer 2017- New York Fashion Week


Marchesa Spring Summer 2017

Crystal Phuong & Actress Alyssa Milano at Marchesa Spring Summer 2017

Never thought one day I could meet one of my favorite "witches" from the "Charmed" series, a favorite TV show when I was little. Actress Alyssa Milano looks flawless as always.

Last day in New York, we spent our day at Kimora Lee Simpson's showroom, sipping some drinks while watching her Spring Summer mini collection. It couldn't get better than that. 

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (part 2)

In the mood for army green that day. 

Kimora Lee Spring Summer 2017 presentation

My favorite dress from Kimora Lee Simpson Spring Summer 2017 collection

Fashion designer, supermodel Kimora Lee Simpson and Crystal Phuong

With the one and only, Kimora Lee Simpson. She looks stunning in person and on the TV. Don't get jealous with me, boys!

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (part 2)- Grand Central Terminal

After 3 years visiting New York, I finally had a chance to visit the popular Grand Central Terminal. Quite a magnificent beauty I must say. 

Window display at Bergdorf Goodman, New York City

I wanted to spend half of my day shopping at Bergdorf Goodman, but many other events came up last minute changed our plan, we only had time to snap this outstanding window display as we walked pass the mall. Just an example of how a busy life in New York could look like to you. 

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (part 2)- New York Sunset

Crystal Phuong- New York Fashion Week Travel Diary 2016 (part 2)- New York City Sunset

At least, we left New York with this spectacular sunset view of the city. 

Thank you New York for giving me so much motivation, energy, opportunities, and friendships! After three consecutive years visiting, I still can't get enough of you. You were my dream city to visit growing up and you will still be in many years to come. 

See you again soon, the Big Apple! 
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Crystal Phuong
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