Articles by Suzanne

It’s an exciting time here at Suzanne’s Files – we have officially launched our London Notes! If you haven’t already, I recommend you sign up for them on our website. Three times a week, you’ll receive quick takes on the best insider tips in London and area around the great city. It’s truly (if I don’t say so myself) a very valuable service for people living in London or who visit often.

London is a regal, culture-rich, ecclectic city – that’s why I decided to make it my home! I love the history, the parks, the varied arts on offer, and the clustered neighborhoods. There’s something here for everyone, with more choices in restaurants, spas, products, and experiences than there are vehicles on the M25 at rush hour. London has so much to explore and experience – I am enthusiastic to share with those who care.

With SO much choice, it’s hard to navigate where to spend one’s valuable time & money.  There’s no point spending either on experiences that aren’t guaranteed to stand out in your memory as impeccable and put a smile on your face. How can you know which option is best, when you are bombarded with tons of skewed reviews from other sources? Fear not, dear Londoner! Just like Suzanne’s Files cuts through the noise and gives you reliable advice and reviews on a global scale, the London Notes deliver equally valuable information about the city specifically. This narrowed focus helps you focus on what you do professionally day-to-day. The London Notes include everything from where to get the best frozen yogurt in South Kensington to where you can have the most relaxing massage after work in the City; from luxe boltholes just outside of the city to the best restaurants for group dining or for families. So sit back and relax as I point you in the right direction to the Good Life in London.

Next up?  The Boston Notes… And thereafter? I’ll keep a secret for now, but suffice it to say, more cities on the way.

Okay, by now we’ve all heard about how we are in the worst economic recession in years, and politicians are scrambling unsuccessfully to develop stimulus packages. The media constantly seem to be discussing the recession, but I stumbled across an interesting CNN article by Lisa Reapers France. According to the article, many Americans still have disposable income, but the recession has made them consider before they consume. Even people who are used the luxury lifestyle are thinking about how to get the best deals for their money. Times might be tight, but that doesn’t mean people are willing to completely sacrifice luxury. The best way to save money, in my opinion, is not to give up enjoyment, but rather to cut out all of the less-than-stellar experiences. There’s no point wasting money on products, hotels, restaurants, or activities unless they are guaranteed to exceed your standards of quality.

Lucky for you, if you’re reading this blog you’re probably familiar with Suzanne’s Files. So fear not! I’ll help you make sure that you’re getting only the best experiences with your hard-earned money. Think of me as your luxury Jiminy Cricket, telling you what experiences are worth paying for and what you should skip. I’ll stop you before you spend cash on anything that won’t be completely delightful. After all, that’s what Suzanne’s Files is all about!

Everyone likes to stand out from the crowd, whether through our interior design or how we dress or accessorize. Christie’s, the international auction house, is a great place to find unique items. Of course Christie’s sell top quality arts and antiques, but few people know that they also hold many auctions with lower price points which offer a serious retail alternative when buying jewellery, wine, watches, modern design, furniture, lighting, ceramics, silverware, and much more. These products aren’t something synthetic and off the shelf, but properly crafted and one-of-a-kind.

I love browsing the two London salesrooms, in South Kensington and Mayfair, where the Christie’s specialists are always ready to answer my questions. It’s like a treasure hunt, where the prize could be anything from a vintage onyx bangle adorned with a green garnet butterfly to a case of delicious 1983 Le Pins wines. I can even take my lovely dog along to the canine-friendly showroom. Or, I often simply log on to their website, www.christies.com where I can browse lots around the world and read catalogue notes or the online condition reports.

After all the fun of browsing and learning, it’s time for the ultimate buzz of bidding at auction. In 2007, Christie’s launched its online Christie’s LIVE tool which uses real-time video and audio to bring the excitement of the saleroom right to your desktop.

Although it’s a bit nerve-wracking at first, there’s nothing to fear as long as I set a price limit for myself. The beauty of buying at auction is that even if I’m outbid, soon something different but equally beautiful will come along.

I look forward to meeting you in the auction room…but please don’t bid against me!

I had fun chatting with Dr. Paul Johnson of ‘A Luxury Travel Blog’, it gave me the chance to talk about myself  and why I am so passionate about Suzanne’s Files. My responses to his first two questions are great for my readers who may themselves be wondering what I do each day to develop and grow Suzanne’s Files.

“Everyday is different - that’s for sure! Throughout everyday there is a mix of our insiders, people I meet, things I read that help keep me and our team well informed about special finds all over the world. My days are mixed with business meetings and “checking things out” time. The mix is perfect for me!”

“Everyone I know, almost everyone I meet is interested in Suzanne’s Files - super flattering. People are so curious how they can tap the ever-growing site; the way it can help them navigate through the noise out there- the clutter. The time-saving benefits they get from the e-Newsletters; the insight and personal voice is like a friend would tell you!”

Read the interview in full to learn a little bit more about me.

http://www.aluxurytravelblog.com/2009/03/30/interview-with-suzanne-aaronson-of-suzannes-files/

Renting a villa is a fabulous way to experience a destination in a relaxed, meaningful way and  … it can be a much more affordable option than a hotel. Truth is, you get more for your money with the right type of villa/apartment than at most hotels where you are confined to your room. Making one’s own breakfast (or having it prepared by a personal chef) and swimming in your own private pool are daily variables most people appreciate when renting and making the space one’s own.

The issue is finding a trustworthy, professional villa provider. I’ve made it my mission to source out and vet villa/apartment rental providers who are top-notch.  See my contribution to Dreamscapes where I give my five pointers to ensure satisfaction and not disappointment with your villa.

#1: Always request updated images of the property, both inside & out

#2: Check out the last two recent testimonials

Read More…