The Un-Woo

Little Mrs. Right, so cute and polite, sees you when coming her way. As you sit down beside her, her GPS guides her away from your courtship display.

Few things are worse than a date night gone awry. Courtship – a centuries-old tradition – can be an intimidating, yet rewarding experience. Its triumphs are marked by the thrill of the pursuit, while its failures are memorialized by the agony of rejection. So what’s a gent to do when Cupid’s aim is slight askew?

If your romantic approach could use a boost of octane, consider the following date night recommendations.

1. Many suitors employ the dinner date classic when attempting to woo the perfect mate. If you are prone to counting sheep under the romantic flicker of candlelight, expand your dating arsenal to include more than a simple meal. When deciding on date night activities, Find out what interests Her and make your plans accordingly. Is she athletic, adventurous, a movie buff, or a die-hard romantic? Whatever the case, do your best to solicit her input. Your date night activity should facilitate good conversation, and be successful at keeping boredom at bay.

2. Oftentimes, first impressions “seal the deal.” Even the smallest of details become glaring when illuminated under the romantic spotlight. Your first impression may be the only impression if you appear to be lax with hygiene. An intoxicating waft of body odor may numb or offend your date’s sensibilities; and the triple play of  dirty fingernails, dirty teeth, and dirty shoes, will never add up to foreplay.  This is why your mother ranted that, “Proper Grooming is Essential.” Taking pride in your appearance will always have an impact on your dating successes; therefore, be kind – be courteous – be clean!

3. Schedule date night activities well in advance to ensure that you will Be Punctual. Arriving late without a reasonable explanation, or cancelling plans on a whim or moment’s notice, is nothing less than R-U-D-E. Should something unexpected arise, give your date the courtesy and respect of timely communication. Emergencies can hardly be avoided, but dater’s remorse isn’t one of them.

4. Create a sense of enchantment with some good Old-fashioned Courtship. Bring a smile to her face with a thoughtful gift, or a sincere and observant compliment. Make no demands; harbor no expectations; just treat her like a Lady.

5. As an extension of old-fashioned courtship, Chivalry is here to Stay. The fact that your date is a contemporary woman, with an education, career, and political views of her own, will have no bearing on her ability to appreciate a prince. Every gal likes to be doted upon now and again; so open the door (car doors, restaurant doors, Jim Morrison Doors, or any door at all), and remember to pull out her chair.  

"Rambling Rambo"

6. Women are peculiar creatures. If this was the theme for your college dissertation, you truly are not alone. Without a doubt, the female population has a monopoly on the gift of gab. Although your date will help guide the topic of conversation, do realize that your participation is helpful. If verbal expression is not your forte, don’t allow nervousness to get the best of you. Keep the conversation moving at a reasonable pace, and if trying your hand at humor, keep it light and free of vulgarity. Actively Listen to what she has to say by asking relevant and intelligent questions. On the other hand, be aware that mindless chatter is like empty calories – both should be avoided. Suppress the urge to be a “Rambling Rambo,” and at no time is it acceptable to recant stories about your ex!

7. Something about you has sparked her curiosity, compelling her to investigate further. Feel free to Be Yourself (within reason), but do leave your Bad Boy or Don Juan persona at home. Who you are, what makes you unique, and what you have to offer, are all things your date will seek to discover. While you needn’t reveal your innermost secrets, do present a relaxed and approachable demeanor. 

8. The modern woman is independent. This is not a proclamation, but an ever-present truth. While equality is the order of the day, a sophisticated gentleman always has the means to pay for his date. Do be prepared to, as well as, offer to pay for the evening. If she insists on splitting the bill fifty-fifty, there is no harm in accommodating her request. However, you mustn’t assume that this will always be the case; otherwise going Dutch may equal a Doozy. 

9. As the evening progresses and you wish to express your romantic interest, remember to be Affectionate when Appropriate. Unsolicited groping is reminiscent of the adolescent, and most certainly will not be appreciated. Engaging in such behavior is a poor reflection of one’s character, not to mention the potential liabilities. Avoid any uncertainty by being observant throughout the evening. Body language (The Language of Love) is universal, and romantic chemistry is undeniable. A true gentleman knows whether to end the evening with a lukewarm handshake, a friendly embrace, or a gentle and passionate kiss.

10. Whether your date is arranged, prearranged, deranged, or a blind one, do your best to Dump with Dignity when round two is an unconscionable suggestion. If this is your predicament, avoid the following statements when closing out the evening: 1) I’ll give you a call. 2) We’ll chat soon. 3) I’ll text you some time. For the hopeful, each statement implies that there will be an impending communication between the two of you.  To the contrary, if you wish to see her again, do make your intentions known.  

Navigating the sea of love can be a turbulent, but worthy adventure. Mrs. Right is on the horizon, and if she’s truly right she’ll stay. Leave her feeling charmed, romantically disarmed, and looking forward to future dates with you – the Captain of the Courtship. 

 -K. Walsh

Boys will be boys...

Boys will be boys, but being knotty just might be fashionable some day; the day you receive an invitation to a black-tie, or other formal affair. What you wear is just as important as how you wear it, whether attending a wedding, funeral, or crashing a Presidential State Dinner. Looking dapper and debonair, with a touch of culture and refinement, is the goal of every modern-day gent when faced with such an occasion. With this in mind, what’s all the fuss over 50+ inches of silk, and what’s with all those knots, anyway?  

The necktie, along with its forerunner the cravat, has been a predominately male fashion expression for centuries. Its origins can be traced to both military and royal attire of the early 17th century. Although an important piece of fashion history, there is no mandate that your formal ensemble conjure up memories of your father’s matching tie, handkerchief, and sock combinations. 

• The conservative look outranks all others within the professional arena. Keep things simple, while in a Corporate Environment or during a Job Interview, by wearing a dark suit, white dress shirt, and the classic, solid, navy-blue, or burgundy tie. Although a slight variation of tie color is acceptable, and simple prints are tolerated, avoid the temptation for bright colors or busy novelty prints at all costs; especially during the holiday season. 

•  When making a tie decision for Weddings, or other jubilant Celebrations, proceed with caution. Oftentimes, there are unspoken rules of etiquette for guests at a wedding, or other formal engagement. If you are not in the wedding party, pay special attention to your invitation, and any attire requests from your host. If the celebration is a black-tie affair, keep it simple and go with tradition. In the absence of such a request, bear in mind that weddings generally have a color theme. Grooms frequently choose the tie colors of white, silver, gray, sage green, pink, lavender, yellow, and orange. If you are not privy to this information, stick with basic tie colors and dark suits rather than making an unsolicited fashion statement. Although an Ascot tie, or other formal neckwear is in order, be careful not to upstage the groom.   

• Without question, Funerals are a definite black-tie affair. Stick with a black, dark blue or gray suit with a tie of similar color.  Enough said.  

• For Dating or Romantic occasions, feel free to liven up your fashion ensemble with a dose of imagination. Create a look that is warm, inviting, and friendly, as there is no need for conservatism here. Break the monotony of tradition with a splash of vibrant color, a unique print or pattern, a distinctive tie or Ascot pin, wearing a decorative vest in lieu of a jacket, or a variation of the necktie altogether.

Whatever you decide, make certain that your apparel is clean, pressed, and properly fitted. To the latter, every gent will know his measurements (neck, chest, sleeve, waist, and inseam), and is re-sized from time-to-time, to account for changes in his physique.  

Lastly, if you’re the uncomplicated type, don’t fret over the Windsor knot, Half-Windsor knot, Pratt/Shelby knot, Four-in-Hand knot, Small knot, Prince Albert knot, Cross knot, Ascot (Ruche, Cocolupa, or Naud Gordien) knot, Jabot, Bow Tie, and which knot, not to wear. Ties of the clip-on and pre-tied variety are fashion, that is fortunately made simple. 

Now that you’re all tied up, could there be an additional benefit of wearing a necktie? It should come as no surprise that, for women, there’s something inexplicably titillating about a well-groomed gent in a tie; the three Cs to be exact.  If you could read her mind, she’d share that you appear to be in Control, exhibit a Command presence, and convey a sense of Confidence, all by wearing a tie!  Not to mention the extra points earned for your quotient of appeal.   So what are you waiting for? Enjoy any formal event while looking your best.  

Don’t be afraid to tie the knot. Wear it – a necktie – the modern gent’s fashion accessory. 

-K. Walsh  

Know your nose

Were the rules of attraction made to be broken? If not broken, perhaps, enhanced? Who’s to say, but one thing is for certain: finding the right mix of sensuality, and pheromone, is the kind of thing genies have socked away in bottles for centuries. What makes women find a particular man desirable? Every man has a special ‘something’ that makes him unique, be it charm, bicep dimension, the proverbial shoe size, or the PIN number to his debit card. The list is exhaustive, so, how will you set yourself apart? 

You won’t find the answer in your father’s Old Spice, or even in the old school of conventional masculine wisdom. Although your heart’s settled on a favorite aromatic love tonic, does it truly define you? Does it drive the woman in your life passionately crazy, or does it drive her away? 

Give yourself a competitive edge, in the game of love, with the perfect scent for a sophisticated gent such as yourself.  Determine whether you prefer a strong and robust scent or a subtle, yet, clean and cool one. Whichever appeals to your senses, understand why this is so, by getting to know your nose.  From Giorgio Armani to Givenchy, and Ralph Lauren to Bvlgari, with so many scents from which to choose, how will you best decide? 

It’s in the notes. To be precise, the composition of any fine fragrance (male or female) is such that it will feature three distinct elements, or notes (top/head, middle/heart, and base), each unfolding over time; creating a symphony for the senses. Top notes offer an introductory scent that tends to be lighter, yet is highly volatile. Chances are you purchased your favorite scent based on this particular note. Top notes evaporate quickly, so allow a fragrance time to linger.  You will soon discover that the best of it has only begun. 

Enter the middle note. Often referred to as the heart of the fragrance, middle notes are strong and enduring. Remember that you are unique, and no two men will wear the same fragrance alike. When testing a fragrance, wear it no less than 15 minutes. In time, it will emit a signature aroma, as the elements fuse with your body’s natural chemistry. 

Last, but not least, are the base notes. These are the strongest ingredients of a fragrance, and serve as a fixative melding all other notes together. The base note provides for extended wear, of a fragrance, and prolongs its aromatic properties. 

All scents, from the impostor to the designer, belong to one of four distinct categories including Fresh, Floral, Oriental, and Woody (with a central trans-category of Aromatic Fougère). That’s right!  Contrary to popular belief, all fragrances are, in fact, cut from the same cloth.

By concentration, cologne contains 2 – 5% essential oils, and fragrance compounds, in contrast to perfumes, which contain upwards of 20%.  As nature’s perfect stimulants, essential oils induce certain euphoric and relaxing sentiments. Common notes used in male fragrances include Bergamot, Cedar, Ginger, Lavender, Neroli, Patchouli, Sandalwood, and Vetiver. It’s no accident that these are woody, aromatic, tranquil, and soothing. 

So what did Giovanni Paolo Feminis know that the rest of us would pay an arm and leg?  He knew that men deserve special recognition in their quest to enhance the rules of attraction.  In answering this masculine battle cry, Giovanni developed the perfect Scent for a Gent – his 1709 romantic elixir – cologne. Thus, the contemporary concept of male fashion cologne was born. The rest of this story can be found on Saks’ Fifth Avenue, your bedroom armoire, and in every department store worldwide.                                                                                                          

SCENT hints for a GENT:

1. Determine which notes are in your favorite cologne, or other fragrance.
2. Score some free samples online, or the next time you purchase at a department store.
3. Test no more than three scents at a time; any more will cloud your sense of smell.
4. The smell of coffee beans will clear the sinuses; the sales representative will have some.
5. Apply cologne to clean skin, most commonly after a shower.
6. Cologne should be worn on the body; hotspots include wrists, neck, and behind ears.
7. Rubbing wrists together will crush, or breakdown, a scent more rapidly. 
8. Spray cologne into the air, and walk into the mist for even distribution.
9. Store cologne in a cool, dry, place away from direct sunlight.
10. Properly stored cologne will last approximately three years. 

Now that you’ve got the basics, a little trial, and error, is in order. You hereby have permission to slather, spritz, and douse… within reason.

-K. Walsh

The first device of its kind, its sleek, and lightweight, design features a full-color 3 ½-inch screen (viewable in direct sunlight), easy-read information bar, 300-course storage capacity, and a lithium ion rechargeable battery.

Simple, convenient, and easy to use, game management has never been easier than with the OnPar Touchscreen Rangefinder. Whether a Pro, student, or novice; keeping track of your performance will serve to enhance your golfing experience. OnPar conforms to USGA electronic device guidelines, and is free from any activation, annual membership, or course map fees; making the OnPar Touchscreen Rangefinder a must-have for your virtual golfbag.

A rival to any golfing GPS system on the market today, OnPar is a smart buy for the savvy golfing consumer.

BUY IT OnPar Touchscreen Rangefinder $399

Examine your motivation. Have you been satisfied with your look until recently? If so, why have you decided to grow a goatee now? Does the new woman in your life drop hints, or, on occasion, make mention of how her ex had one? Did you recently lose a considerable amount of weight?  Are you going through what the rest of the world refers to as a midlife crisis, and want to feel young and virile again?  There are plenty of reasons, or non-reasons, to grow a goatee.  Be honest with yourself and examine your motivation.  Be certain that you are changing your look for you.  When you look into the mirror, you should like what you see – chin and all.  

Consider the time. Have you recently begun to grow your goatee?  In the beginning, your goatee may look somewhat awkward, or downright silly. Consider the time it will take to complete the look you want to achieve. Check your calendar. If your immediate plans, or obligations, include family or wedding photos, or an important speaking engagement, you may want to delay plans for your new chin friend, until a more suitable time. Look – into the mirror – before you leap, and allow your new goatee to grow in peace, not in pieces.

Consider the upkeep.  How much time will you spend grooming each day?  In order for your goatee to look its best, proper grooming is essential.  If you have minimal time for grooming, wearing a goatee style that requires a high level of maintenance may not be ideal. If your schedule is busy, but your heart is set on wearing a goatee, try opting for a simple style versus something more complex. 

Consider your occupation.  Even in the twenty-first century – the bottom line is – a goatee might not be acceptable to wear in certain occupations. Some employers ask that employees refrain from wearing certain styles of facial hair, or displaying certain types of  piercings, while in their employ, and/or on their premises. If your career path trumps your choice of beard expression, abandon this mission. For most, this will not be a problem, but do use your discretion.

 Understand the shape of your face.  Your goatee should enhance, or compliment your existing facial features. A large face with a narrowly trimmed goatee will appear out of proportion.  On the other hand, a small face with a long or extremely thick goatee will appear overpowered.  Keep in mind that a goatee is not a full beard, and, by definition, only refers to the tuft of hair grown from the chin.  This does grant you some leeway; however, understanding the shape of your face will help you make the best decision.  Round, square, and oval-shaped faces are all complimented by a goatee.  For those with a long face, an actual beard that is fuller on the sides, and short underneath the chin, will serve to create the illusion of being more balanced. 

Consider the style. Throughout history, men have donned various styles of facial hair, including the goatee.  Popularized in the 17th century, by the Flemish painter, Sir Anthony Van Dyck, there are many styles from which to choose.  Wear it alone, with a mustache, or accented by a soul patch (a tuft of hair grown directly below the bottom lip).  Experiment with any number of variations, always keeping your goatee trimmed, neat, and clean.

Don’t ditch the itch.  If you have recently begun to grow your goatee, you may find yourself irritated from the itching.  Be patient, and don’t be so quick to ditch the itch.  Although stubble can be quite annoying, the itching should be non-existent when your goatee has grown to the desired length.  To soothe an itchy chin, try using a dab of talcum powder.

Abandon the peach fuzz.  Be honest with yourself and face the facts: a few lone wiry hairs doth not a goatee make.  Growing a goatee may not be right for you, if it takes more than several weeks to achieve reasonable thickness, or denseness, in the chin hair.  Understand that genetics, and your overall health, determine the quantity, quality, and length of hair on any part of the body.  If the growth pattern of your goatee remains sparse, scraggly, or if you find your chin resembling fruit, it might be time to abandon the peach fuzz. 

Is it fair?  Hair color should not be the determining factor.  Contrary to popular belief, fair-haired goatees can be just as attractive as darker ones.  If you are fair-haired, allow your goatee, or beard, to grow-in before making your final decision.  Oftentimes, beard hair will be several shades darker, but even if this is not the case, a fair-haired goatee might be the right look for you. Lastly, if you are a mature gent, don’t be discouraged by gray hair.  Besides, who says a silver fox has to live on top of your head?  Many women find facial hair extremely attractive, and the more salt-n-pepper – the better.

Consider your partner.  Your partner may not be turned on by a vision of you with chin decorations, of the keratin kind.  Talk to your partner and find out what she thinks.  You may be surprised by her image of a sexier you.  Also, remember that during the awkward stubble phase, delivering a kiss with a tickle, or scratch, may not be on her list of approved romantic gestures. 

Whether you decide to Goatee or Go Bare, be adventurous and enjoy finding the right look for you.

-K. Walsh 

Flying was once a glamorous and stylish affair: passengers wore their best outfits, families would come to the airport to wave them goodbye, and pilots and air hostesses were revered for having the best jobs in the world. To be able to fly also meant that you had arrived; you were one of the chosen few who could afford the privilege.

Today, flying is considered a fundamental right to be enjoyed by the masses, and, somewhere along the turbulent line, what was demure and gracious has become raging and ragged.

The fundamental rule for air travel, much like life in general, is that politeness and consideration will go a long way in ensuring a smooth, relaxed journey.

At the Airport

From the long line at check-in to the long wait at security, the experience can be rather fraught, but getting annoyed and raising an angry voice will only make the situation worse. In most cases, airport staff are friendly and helpful: security staff are there for that very function, our security, and it’s not the check-in desk’s fault that an airplane has been delayed or cancelled, however upsetting or disruptive it is to our plans.

Going through security can be extremely tiresome, but the process could be far less traumatic if we prepare ourselves whilst in the queue – remove all keys, coins, watches, belts and laptops in advance, ready to place in to the tray, and please abide by the rules for liquids and sharp objects as they’re there for our safety.

Boarding

On arrival at the gate, please stay seated until your boarding group has been called, especially if you have an allocated seat. You won’t be allowed on the plane any quicker and you’ll merely be making the whole process more tedious and time consuming for all. If you’re fortunate enough to turn left into first class when embarking, please refrain from any smug glances at those in cattle class and the ‘do you know who I am?’ line is also best avoided!

Once onboard, the scrimmage begins to find enough space for carry-on luggage. Contrary to popular belief, we don’t have the right to the space above our allocated seat, therefore if it is full, the flight attendant will have to find a space elsewhere in the plane. This is, of course, a slight annoyance, but as long as you remove anything essential, you shouldn’t need to have access to your luggage during the flight.

Photo Courtesy of The Telegraph

A common issue before take-off is with other passengers asking to switch seats. If you are travelling alone and don’t mind moving, then it’s a very kind gesture, but do not feel that you must acquiesce through guilt or embarrassment, unless, of course, a child is involved, as you are entitled to the seat that you have pre selected or have been allocated. Window and aisle seats are highly coveted prizes on a flight, but please choose your seat wisely – if you are someone who tends to get up from your seat frequently, try not to select a window seat as, not only will it cause disruption for those seated next to you, but it’s also a pain for you.

Take a Seat

You should, by now, be comfortable in your seat and about to press the recline button. It’s advisable to keep your chair upright unless you really have to lower it, as space is already limited. However, it’s safe to assume that most people will want to recline, especially on long haul journeys, but remember to inform the person behind you that you’re about to recline – there are few things worse than an extortionately expensive gin and tonic ending up on your lap.

It should also be noted that there’s no law or magic formula for your armrest – your neighbour is just as entitled to it as you are, so my only advice is to be respectful and share it equally – keep your elbows tucked in and any bags or magazine on your side of the seat. In a recent TripAdvisor survey of 3,200 US travellers, 25% reported that leg room was their biggest issue with air travel, with 30% wanting more leg room and 38% wanting bigger seats.

If you need to get up from your seat, try to find the most appropriate and least disruptive time to do it, which is usually not when the cabin crew are serving food. When leaving your seat, try not to hold on to the headrest of the passenger in front of you, as they may be one of the lucky ones who manage to sleep for the whole journey.

Eating Onboard

We are all acutely aware that airplane food is far from haute cuisine, but we are all in the same boat, so to speak, and complaining about it excessively won’t help. It might be worth buying food that is easy to transport at the airport, which you can then enjoy during the flight, but please refrain from strong odours and flavours.

Small Talk

If you are travelling alone, it can be quite a lonely experience and it might seem natural to engage your neighbour in conversation. Sporadic small talk is fine, but don’t regale countless stories, especially if your neighbour does not reciprocate, as most people prefer to travel in silence with a good book or movie. 73% of travellers said that a little small talk is fine, but that they prefer to keep to themselves for most of the flight.

Funny Business

We seem to forget that we are in public when flying, but it’s important to remember that, even when flying during the night, we’re not in our own homes and, as such, we should behave appropriately. A fumble under the covers might be a regular treat at home and it may seem a great idea with the free champagne fuelling the adrenaline of being at 35,000 feet, but on a plane, and later in the courts, it is considered public indecency. Just ask the couple from Dallas who were charged with outraging public decency and subsequently fined after getting amorous in their seats on a flight to Manchester in 1999.

Get Connected

With wifi becoming a real possibility on future flights, it introduces the awkward issue of controlling what people access, with one person’s idea of inappropriate being different from the next. 45% of respondents said that they would not complain if their neighbour visited inappropriate websites, but I’m sure this may change if the type of website contributed to increasing occurrences of the aforementioned amorous activities.

Child-friendly Zone?

One of the most contentious issues most of us face when flying concerns children. Nobody wants to endure a crying baby for the whole flight, least of all the parents, therefore a certain amount of leeway should be given, but parents should always enforce enough discipline to ensure that children don’t run wildly around the plane or kick the seat of the passengers in front of them. Children are easily distracted at the best of times, therefore make sure you bring ample sources of amusement such as colouring books or DVDs. 77% of those questioned in TripAdvisor’s 2009 travel trends survey thought that families should have their own section in a plane, while 46% would pay extra to be seated in a specific quiet section.

In-flight Fragrance

Personal hygiene is a big issue when in such a confined space, therefore always make sure that you are considerate to those around you. A good tip is to shower before travelling to the airport, visit the bathroom to freshen up during the flight and please keep your shoes and socks on! 68% of the survey respondents were concerned by germs and viruses when travelling, with 26% now carrying antibacterial hand creams.

Air Rage

One of the most troubling issues about being on a plane is that, not only are we in such a confined space, but we must remain in it until the end of the journey, where we have little control over the behaviour of others. In the year to March 2009, the Department of Transport reported that there were almost 3,500 incidents of disruptive behaviour on UK flights, 44 of which were deemed to be serious, with alcohol being cited as the main cause in 37% of these cases. Director Kevin Smith was recently left with a case of air rage after being asked to leave a plane for being too fat. He won’t be too happy to learn that 74% of US plane passengers think that large passengers should have to buy two seats to accommodate their size.

Alighting

Having landed safely, the allure of the beach or the sunset cocktails can be too much for some and the disembarking process can become a big tussle, with the aisles becoming blocked with a mass of people and luggage. There’s no need to jump up as soon as the plane lands as the mere minutes that could possibly be saved does not justify the inconvenience and lack of consideration for others.

It’s true that flying can often be a trying experience, but it can also be a great opportunity to relax, watch a movie, catch up on the week’s news and enjoy a drink, all in the safe knowledge that you are being transported to an idyllic beach setting or to visit a much loved friend or relative.

Everyone onboard needs to play their part to try to ensure a pleasant flying experience, and with a little bit of care, consideration and politeness we can make flying more enjoyable for us all, and maybe throw a splash of glamour in as well.

Bon Vivant

Bon Vivant is the bespoke, highly personalised concierge service that advises on and arranges every travel, lifestyle and leisure need. Members have access to exclusive treatment, complimentary benefits and discounts at top hotels, restaurants, members’ clubs, exclusive nightclubs and a range of lifestyle services as well as access to VIP and sold out events.

For affordable luxury with the personal touch for £100 per month, visit our website at http://www.bonvivant.co.uk or our blog at http://bonvivantliving.wordpress.com

Close, but no cigar

Power used to be flashy. Now, it’s unassuming. It used to brash. Now, it’s calculated. It’s time for you to buy a solid dark tie. No wider then the lapel on your 2 button suit, the dark tie commands respect without expecting it. The dark tie is worn by the first one to work, and the last one to leave. He talks a big game, but still exceeds all expectations. He’s younger then everyone else, and already moving into the corner office. Hell, he deserves it.

You deserve it

Good Luck and Happy Hunting.

-Bravado Living

The New iPhone 4

Yes, we know you’ve read every article, watched every video, and seen every picture, and maybe even helped “find” the prototype relating to the new iPhone. And yet, you still feel like you need more info?

It’s ok, we feel the same way. We’re going to go over the basics, and what we’re particularly excited about. Taking a huge leap from the past three iterations, iPhone 4 ($200-$300 and yes this is the official name) makes up for the past six months of killer Android releases with features like an Apple A4 processor, app multitasking (now you don’t have to stop Pandora to answer a text), 7 hours of talk time, 40 hours of music playback, a backlit 5-megapixel camera with an LED flash (finally!) and 720p video recording and the ability to edit movies with iMovie‘s new iPhone app, a front-facing camera for “FaceTime” video to video conference calls, an eye-popping 960 x 640 “Retina” display, all housed in a glass and stainless steel case that looks more like the rest of the Apple line, and less like the plastic bubble “second cousin” of the family.

The flat, stainless-steel-rimmed iPhone 4 will be available in black or white, and it’ll go on sale June 24, Jobs said. Expect to pay $299 for the 32GB version (same price as last year’s 32GB iPhone 3GS, provided you sign a two-year AT&T contract), or $199 for the 16GB model

Pre-Sales start June 15.

BUY IT Apple Iphone 4 $200-$300

[Via Uncrate and Yahoo]

We remember when Coral Gables used to have a great Art Walk- free wine and appetizers every ten steps, live music, meet and greets, etc. With the passing of time, it saw a dying down. Fortunately for us, First Fridays in the Gables have continued to take advantage of the publicity and host a variety of events. It looks like a very Gables weekend– here’s what we have lined up:

TASTE OF THE GABLES — sample food tastings from 15 Coral Gables restaurants as the unofficial kick-off party to Coral Gables Restaurant Week. Tickets are $15 at the door tonight but, you can go here http://coralgablesrestaurantweek.com/ and grab the last of the $10 tickets. 6-8PM 6/4/10 @ 65 Miracle Mile.

Sushi Maki – Check out free bites and cheap sake 8-11:30PM @ 2334 Ponce de Leon Blvd

Morton’s – Dogfish Head Beer and Cheese Tasting! Sounds like a dream, I know! But, it’s really happening. If that’s not enough- Morton’s is also treating you to tuna tartar canapés, salmon wedges, lamb chops with brie, petite filet mignon sandwiches, and different types of cheese. $45 gets you a seat to the tasting.6-7:30PM 6/4/10 @ 2333 Ponce de Leon Blvd.

Books & Books – If Stephanie Meyer is your favorite author and you are willing to share that information in public, you should probably be ashamed of yourself. In other news, we have a great event for you- Books & Books is hosting a Midnight Launch Party of the newest book in the Twilight-esque series-“The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner”. Live music, Twilight series trivia contests, costume contests, and prizes are all included in the lure of the fiesta. 9:30- midnight 6/4/10 @ 265 Aragon Avenue

Coral Gables Restaurant Week starts! I still have a gripe as to why they refer to it as “week”. It lasts for 13 days! Anywho, 30 Gables restaurants are giving their run at three course prix fix lunch and dinner menus. We’ll be stopping by Ortanique on the Mile, Angelique Euro Café, and Graziano’s to check out their menu specials this “week”. 6/7/10 – 6/20/10

A couple tidbits: a) This isn’t the time to hit up the “cheaper” venues because you can cash in on a better deal at restaurant.com. Search the list and when you figure where you want to go type in promo code “eat”.  You just paid $3 for a $25 gift certificate.  b) sign up for Chef’s Table at Benihana. This month’s perk: the whole shebang (shrimp, mushrooms, soup/salad, rice, etc) as well as hibachi chicken AND filet mignon at 2 for $39.

Outside the Gables—

LASER SHOW— 7:00pm Legends of the Night Sky Family Laser Show, [ 7:30 free star show in the Planetarium followed by free telescopic observing in the Weintraub Observatory from 8 until 10 p.m. Additionally we have a new series of free lectures called FYI at 8 p.m. ] , 9:00pm The Doors, 10:00pm Best of Pink Floyd, 11:00pm Led Zeppelin, Midnight Pink Floyd: A Saucerful of Secrets. Tickets for each laser show are $8. The shows are AWESOME but, beware: the later it gets, the more the air smells like Mary Jane, and the higher your chances of seeing a kid pass out in line are (I swear this happened last time I went). Miami Museum of Science, 3280 South Miami Avenue

Burlesque/Absinthe Club— promoting itself as an invite only club, email info@clublafeeverte.com for your invite. Opening weekend is always the best time to head out anywhere since they are begging to impress you. Give it a try @ 912 71st St.

Dirty South – Four years ago, I would have been camped outside waiting for 11:00PM to roll around so I could see Dirty South. If you are able to deal with the crowd, head over to Mansion on 6/5/10 @ 1235 WASHINGTON AVENUE

Afrobeta – check them out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7o6XjxBExes performing at Grand Central 697 N. Miami Ave

Movies at the Icon- 2 for 1 admission (all throughout June) playing Remember the Titans on 6/5/10 7:30pm Icon Brickell Spa @ 465 Brickell Ave

Paragon 13-The new Paragon 13 movie theatre in Coconut Grove is finally ready to open its doors to the public. In case you haven’t heard, the concession stand is selling beer and liquor. They are also allowing you to reserve your seat so that you don’t have to get to the theatre a half hour before your movie. In a nice twist, for a short time: stop by the Grove and spend $30 in any store or $50 in any restaurant and receive two complimentary tickets to check out the theatre

The World's Most Famous Car?

This iconic beast of a car would fetch a handsome purse as-is, but this particular model has several “features” that you just can’t find at a dealership. Fully equipped with Bond’s machine guns, a bullet-proof shield, revolving number plates,a removable roof panel, and smoke screens, this DB5 is designed for both attracting women, and escaping from them.


So you can go out and buy a brand new Aston Martin, and  be the boss until the next model comes out- or you can buy a classic car like this, and be the boss forever.


Start counting your pennies because October is rolling around soon.


BUY IT James Bond’s 1964 Aston Martin DB5 $5,000,000

[Via Uncrate]