Bai5

New [Artful] Adventures

URBN. A company that comprises of brands such as Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People, BHLDN, and Terrain. Extremely appealing lifestyle-centric shopping experience. Eclectic. Vintage. Global. Bold. Youthful. Creative. Sensuous. Inspiring.

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This past week I had the great pleasure of visiting and touring the Urban Outfitters Headquarters in Philadelphia. As a loyal Anthropologie customer and Free People enthusiast, this was truly an exciting and special experience. Let me start by saying this is not an ordinary business. Overflowing with creativity and filled with passion, each URBN buildings had its own “quirky” personality. From Buddha statues to a coi fish pond, modern art lining the walls to umbrellas with embroidered Indian fabrics, you can’t help but secretly (or not so secretly) wishing you worked there.

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So this is all wonderful, you may be thinking, but what does this have to do with eating gluten-free? Well the truly forward-thinking atmosphere created here at URBN doesn’t end in the workplace- the cafeteria (also open to public) was health-conscious in every aspect (I’m not kidding– there was even a gym in there).

The cafeteria was divided into 6 stations where you can find everything from a black rice rainbow roll to caprese sandwiches to teriyaki stir-fry. There were signs and labels around the cafeteria marking vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, and many of the pre-packaged items were “Whole-Foods-like” products. I had a spicy tuna roll, gluten-free peanut butter cookie, and Lima Lemon Bai. Honestly, what more can a girl want?! In addition to the terrific food, the cafeteria also shared the same eclectic architecture and decor that URBN’s brands promote.

So if you’re in the city and have an urge to check out the Urban Outfitters Headquarters, I’d say you can’t leave without eating a meal there as well!

Cheers,

Anika

October 2014: Bai 5

It’s almost here. Daylight savings is one of my least favorite times of the fall. When the clocks fall back, that’s a reminder to all of us that the dark, gloomy months are here indeed. There’s no fooling yourself by wearing shorts and tank tops or drinking iced tea while sporting a pair of sunglasses- we’re officially onto the grueling months of winter. So how are you going to fight through these upcoming months?

Bai5.

This month’s product is a little off the beaten path, but it would nearly be a crime if I didn’t write a post about Bai5 sooner or later. Every night when studying and ringing the midnight bell, I need a little caffeine boost. Instead of opting for tea or coffee, I always grab a Bai5. Simple, fruity, sweet, filled with antioxidants, and only 5 calories! Instead of using the coffee bean as a source of caffeine like a good ol’ cup of joe, Bai5 utilizes the outer coffee fruit, or superfruit. These little superfruits are a great source of antioxidants. Fun Fact!: Antioxidants fight cellular damage in your body. So having a boost of antioxidants does;t sound like a terrible idea, right? In addition to its great benefits, it tastes pretty good too! It’s sweet- naturally sweetened, that is- and comes in a variety of tropical flavors including Brasilla Blueberry, Malawi Mango, Ipanema Pomegranate, Molokai Coconut, Costa Rica Clementine, Tanzania Lemonade Tea, Sumatra Dragonfruit, Congo Pear, Peach Panama, and last but not least Limu Lemon. I have tried the majority of these flavors, but always be on the look out- new flavors and products are always on the not too far horizon.

“The little can that can”. Bai’s most recent attraction is a carbonated version of the original called Bai5 Bubbles. New tropically inspired flavors, same low calories, and always a great bold taste. I’ve been wanting to try Bai5 Bubbles to see if it can even compare to the original, which is hands down, my favorite drink. Honestly, just one sip is powerful enough to bring you to your happy place! You’ll be dreaming of those tropical beaches and yearning for those hot summer days.

Not to shatter your picturesque bubble, but there’s one down side- it’s rather pricey. I’d recommend buying it in bulk at Costco or another wholesale store for the best prices. You can also buy bigger variety boxes online at http://www.drinkbai.com. Please give it a try- it’s something everyone should experience! Tea and coffee don’t even begin to compare…

Comment below with your favorite drinks!

Cheers,

Anika