In just a few days I'll be heading out to St.Lucia to spend a week with some of my close friends, where I'm sure there will be a lot of relaxing, boarding, and of course, drinking and eating.  Don't worry, blogging will go on its normal schedule -- daily! I've never been to the Caribbean before, so I'm pretty excited to try some of the local flavors, explore the non-tourist spots, and hopefully bring back something whether that be tangible or not.

Aside from loving the relaxation factor of a beach holiday, I also love the ease of packing.  A few bikinis, pair of cutoffs, sunblock, straw hat, and a good read are usually all I need to go with my unlimited rum punch and beach view to keep me happy.

Do you have any essentials when it comes to beach vacations?  Here are a few things I'm taking with...

-  a powerful sunblock that gets the job done without me looking like a grease salad -  strapless bikini with a little support, and plus a stellar mismatched print -  dainty rings that make just the right statement by GABRIELA ARTIGAS -  a SENSI panama hat just for some added sun protection -  these pair of shorts hang right off the waist and go with just about anything -  simple sandals with gold detailing, did I mention -- I love gold, can you tell? -  because we all read more when we're on vacation -  a fun toy to capture wider landscapes

+++more things+++ -  brilliant statement necklaces from HOLST AND LEE  (actually on SALE) -  a backless maxi that's lightweight and perfect for an evening dinner -  the perfect clutch used as a make-up pouch to carry all my light makeup