Category Archives: Travel Guide

Packing up for Palm Springs

friday evening we will be driving all night to palm springs. it is about a 7 hour trip and i am surprisingly excited to drive vs. fly because we save money and i get more alone time with my b.
b and i have done many roadtrips to and from utah and even though i am usually not looking forward to being in a car for 10+ hours it always turns out to be a fun and memorable time. b is the perfect travel buddy.

as i day dream about our long weekend in palm springs, all i can think about now is what on earth i should pack. i never fail to over pack for any occasion, but with us driving and not being restricted by the 50 pound limit it may get a little crazy. i don’t have to hold back and the options of what to bring are endless.

here is what is on my packing list.

1. of course i have to bring this swan floatie for the countless hours i will be poolside. i mean who doesn’t want to float the day away on a giant swan? it also allows me to stay cool in the pool and read my book at the same time. win win.

2. i seriously need a good kimono to act as a bathing suit cover up. i have been eyeing this one from forever 21, but they don’t have my size online and it is not available in stores. guess i will have to head to the mall tonight and see what i can find. where have you found your favorite kimono? maybe i am jumping on the bandwagon too late in the game…

3. is it weird if i bring my own birthday candles? i mean the flamingos definitely go with the palm springs vibe and how adorable would these candles look atop a perfectly white cake? but really is it vain? i love celebrating others’ birthdays and think little details like this make it all the more magical. maybe these candles will help me remember to embrace my age.

4. the sun will be a blazing in palm springs so i will need to make sure to not only protect my skin from the harmful rays but also my hair! This perfect light weight spray from aveda is water resistant and should last for up to 16 hours. yes, please!

5. i do not usually shop at american eagle, but instantly fell in love with these tan gladiator sandals. and for that price point, why not? gladiators are the perfect shoe to transition from pool to around town to an evening out.

6. this is the book i just started and plan to read a lot while lounging. i am 2 chapters in and am getting hooked. what book are you reading this summer?

7. playing cards are the perfect travel size game. my family loves to play board games, card games, lawn games, you name it we play it. we all are pretty competitive so it is always a roller coaster ride of emotions as one team is winning and the other losing. i am thinking we should pick up some palm springs inspired playing cards as a souvenir.

8. you bet i will be packing my fujifilm camera to document the trip in instax. i loving taking photos with it.

9. with all that sun talk you can’t forget a cute bathing suit!

anything you think i am forgetting?
of course i will bring my panama and sun hats with lots of sunscreen. that is a given.

Linked to: Treat Yo Self

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One More Must Eat in Pismo Beach

36 Hours in Pismo Beach

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Pismo Beach is an easy breezy beach town located half way between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Its’ small town feel and endless beach draws California natives and West Coast dwellers alike. So of course I had to check it out!

6:30pm: Dinner at Ventana Grill - This Latin inspired restaurant is situated on the cliffs of Pismo Beach. The panoramic views (see picture above), modern decor and flavorful dishes make this place a must eat . Ventana starts you off with homemade tortillas and cinnamon butter while you peruse the menu. We started with clam chowder, which was one of the best we have ever had — it had the perfect ratio of clams to potatoes. For entrees, B ended up choosing the chicken burrito and I chose jumbo shrimp al ajillo. Both were a little spicy, but the flavor of each was unreal. I don’t love spicy entrees but I couldn’t get enough of the garlic and chile combo. For dessert, we chose the fondue plate with homemade churros. The dessert was very average. Next time, I would opt for an appetizer or side dish instead because savory is definitely their specialty.
Do note, Ventana Grill issues very few reservations (two per hour I think, they prefer leaving their tables open to walk-ins. ) so it is best to come around 6:30pm or the wait will be insane. They do have a lovely bar with the same stunning view if you do find your self playing the waiting game!

8pm: Sunset – Watch the sunset on benches located on the balcony of Ventana Grill. It is the perfect spot to relax and remember what vacationing is all about.

DAY TWO

9am: Breakfast at Honeymoon Cafe - The cafe caters to locals and tourists alike. Its’ fresh and simplistic menu leaves you wanting more. I chose an english muffin egg sandwich with fresh spinach and B opted for the traditional egg, bacon & potato combo. It was very chilly and overcast when we arrived so I had to get a hot coco to bring me comfort. It was well worth it — look at the size of that thing! There is dinning indoors but it is pretty small. Honeymoon Cafe is located about 5 blocks away from the downtown area. There is only street parking so come early and you will leave happy!

11am: Kayak – Grab a kayak and explore the caves of Pismo Beach. Central Coast Kayaks offers an amazing “Cave Expenditure” tour. The tour lasts about 3 hours and all levels are able to attend. B and I were very much looking forward to this tour but the weather was not on our side. I really hope we are able to experience the caves next time because I hear great things! Tour includes guide, instruction, paddling equipment, water, snacks and pictures!

2pm: Lunch at Mo’s Smokehouse BBQ - Great little BBQ joint located right next to the iconic Pismo Beach pier! Their signature is ribs and pork sandwiches, but we ended up deciding to share half a bbq chicken. It was so juicy and the skin was grilled to perfection (just the way I like it). There are three different sauces available and so of course we had to dip the chicken in all three. Sweet Carolina sauce ended up winning the title in our book. All entrees are served with baked beans, potato salad and corn bread muffins. The portions are huuuuuge! And we had to order fries per B’s request. The side of fries could have fed 4 people comfortably. Needless to say we left with full stomachs and clogged arteries!

4pm: Explore the Sand Dunes - As I mentioned before, Pismo Beach has endless beaches (18 miles I believe) so what better way to explore them than on an ATV?! I have driven an ATV in Park City (where B claims I almost killed us) but there is nothing like driving one with the ocean in the distance. It is a whole new experience. Sun Buggy offers a plethora of options of four wheelers and the prices can’t be beat! All prices include helmets and goggles.

7pm: Dinner at Ribline by the Beach - Located about two miles south of Pismo Beach in the smaller town of Grover Beach. Ribline has great BBQ style options with the the most clever names! I chose the “skinny pig” (there is also “naked piggy in the club” and “bye bye piggy”) which is a pulled pork sandwich without sauce. Ribline rubs their meat with special spices to sit overnight so even without the bbq sauce the meat was so flavorful! Ben ordered the burger and said it was some of the best fries he had ever had! Service was on the slower side, but the food comes piping hot!

9pm: Roast s’mores on the beach! Pismo Beach represents how California used to be so live up the opportunity to make your own bonfire and roast those puppies! Have you ever bought waffle cones and filled them with marshmallows, peanut butter and chocolate chips then wrapped it in tin foil to roast over the fire? It is amazing and a lot less mess! I will have to do a little feature to show exactly what I mean because you need to try this.

DAY THREE

9am: Breakfast at Penny’s All American Cafe – This diner style cafe is located not too far from the Honeymoon Cafe and offers the all american staples like fluffy pancakes, french toast, omelets, sausage, etc. It is one hearty breakfast! The line does get long fast so be sure to get there before your starving. Too often I come hangry to busy restaurants so this reminder is to me…

10:30am: Walk Downtown Pismo – From Penny’s, walk toward the beach and you will end up in the thick of the downtown area where there are many shops to gaze at. There is a taffy shop on the corner that offers quite the selection and tastes delicious. They also do tours of how taffy is made throughout the day. Oh and don’t forget to walk a little north and grab yourself a cinnamon roll from Old West Cinnamon Roll. You can smell them from a block away!

Pismo Beach was so quaint and charming. It is the perfect 36 hour getaway.
Oh and one more thing don’t forget to stay here when you come into town. It is a secluded oasis from the hustle and bustle, but still provides the ocean view!

Linked to: Local Adventurer

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Glamping in Pismo

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This weekend surprised me a little bit. I was excited to experience another California beach town, but was very apprehensive to camp. I have always really disliked camping. I camped every summer for 5 years with my church youth group and absolutely dreaded the week long trip. However, that is why I think I hated it so bad. It was far too long to be sleeping in the Big Bear mountains with 30+ teenage girls. The food was mass produced and my time was based on what was planned by the counselors.

B loves camping. He loves having an excuse to get dirty and enjoy the great outdoors. He loves sleeping in a tent and hearing the whistling of the wind. He loves spotting deer and trying to catch lizards. So when B told me he would like to go camping for the 4th of July holiday I had to go along with it.

I started scouring the internet for campsites in the Big Sur / Pismo Beach area because if I am going to camp I am going to have it by a beach (also note the research process started happening in the end of May). There appeared to be some great state parks but all were filled to the brim. I even looked up north and south of Pismo. Everything was completely booked. I thought, well maybe this is my sign. Maybe we are not supposed to go camping and B could curse fate. Still, in the back of my mind I felt terrible that I was not going to make B’s dream of camping a reality. I searched many hours without any success. After no hope in the horizon I started to look at other travel destinations for our holiday weekend. I guess people plan their 4th 6 months in advance because I was not liking the variety and price of options. I turned to Airbnb in the 11th hour (2 weeks before July 4th) since we previously had such a great experience renting.

And then I found it. The best of both worlds! A post was listed on Airbnb highlighting “glamping” in the Pismo Beach area. It was perfect.

This weekend’s camping (or “glamping”) at Laura and Ben’s farm was such a treat. Their farm is situated in the rural part of Arroyo Grande, which is less than 5 miles from Pismo Beach.
We arrived a little after 7pm. Laura greeted us and took us on the tour of her 4 acre property. There we learned that Laura and Ben also offer lodging in their re purposed water tower and tepee (I would love to have a night in either the next time we are in town).
Their property is so charming and whimsical. Ben mentioned that he designed the property so every corner you turn there is something new and exciting. He said this was the perfect place to let your inner child run wild. And run wild we did.
There was even an adult size teeter totter and swing set!

Bonus points if you know where the inspiration of this circular door came from!

Laura and Ben start a campfire in the evenings for all their guests to enjoy.

The first night we stayed in their “glamping” tent that housed a double mattress with bench. There is a community bathroom located on their property that provides both an indoor and outdoor shower (and towels! ). The second night, all of their designated lodging areas were completely booked but Laura was nice enough to offer their meadow where we were able to set up a tent (so see I did get a camping and a glamping experience all rolled into one).

I can’t say enough good things about the experience we had. Laura and Ben are so friendly and welcoming. The attention they put into the little details of their farm make it magical and picturesque. It really made B want a place like theirs to call home someday. We will see!

B is already talking about our next camping adventure but I am taking it one experience at a time…

Where is your favorite place to camp?

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Weekend in Pictures

Top 5 Beaches in Laguna Beach

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Growing up in the Laguna Beach area (technically Laguna Niguel) , I never thought of it as a place people seek after for vacation. Okay, it is beautiful and I did notice there was more traffic in the summer time but I really never thought of it as a premiere travel destination. I mean normal to me was working across from Main St. beach in Laguna and sitting on the benches watching the waves on my lunch breaks (ya, it’s a little surreal to think about it now). However, after living away from Laguna for the past 6 years (wow time flies) I now appreciate the beach city more than ever.

I was able to head home this weekend for a short trip (my best friend since forever had a baby and I had to go down and attend the baby shower. She currently resides in Chicago so I wasn’t sure when the next time I would be able to see this beautiful baby if I didn’t take this chance) and while I was home I couldn’t stop pointing out all the beauty that surrounded me. I kept on reminding my parents to make sure they know they live in one of the most gorgeous places in the country! My dad kept on saying he knew and that is why they have lived there for 30+ years (my dad grew up in Salt Lake City).

I also noticed whenever I go home that, no matter how long it has been, I know that place like the back of my hand. I love that feeling. So although I am not considered a local any longer below is a previous local’s guide to the best public beaches in Laguna Beach!

1. Victoria Beach – This is the beach I grew up going to with my family. It is also the beach where B and I took our engagements. Victoria Beach is located really close to the Montage hotel and Ruby’s diner. Parking can be a little bit of a nightmare (but that is the case with most beaches I think) and it is a little bit of a trek to get to the beach but it is completely worth it. There is a beautiful rocky area to explore tide pools, an old lighthouse shaped building and the water is crystal clear.

2. Thousand Steps Beach – Now although it is not literally a thousand steps it is a workout to leave this beach, but it is worth every step. A lot of people come to just run up and down the stairs multiple times because being in this amazing setting is reason alone to keep pushing yourself. There is a long stretch of sand, a cave to climb in and clear water. It is so unique. Do note that it is street parking only which can be difficult to find on a Saturday afternoon. And whatever you do, do not park in the hospital parking lot across the street! You will be towed!

3. Treasure Island Park (Montage Beach) - My family and I used to walk these grounds frequently, have had a number of family portraits taken here and I went to this beach for many picnic dates with my high school crush (all happy memories). Although it is the backyard of a hotel, the beach is open to the public. I came here a lot on my own when I wanted to be near the beach but not necessarily at the beach. There are many benches to sit on at the top of the hill. There is also some fun rocky areas to explore with abundant tide pools. Parking can be found at a pay lot next to the hotel or across the street.

4. Shaw’s Cove – Shaw’s Cove is located less than a mile north of Main Beach. It is tucked away in a beautiful neighborhood with lust worthy homes and is on the smaller side, but that’s why it gets its name. Do note that there is no natural shade so prepare accordingly!

5. Thalia Street Beach- This is one of two beaches I frequented almost daily in high school (the other is a private beach). It is a pretty hot hangout for the teenage crowd but it is a beautiful beach and great if you are into skimming or surfing! Thalia Street Beach is located on Thalia Street (who would have guessed) close to many shops and eateries. I also like how it is a quick trip down two flights of stairs and your on the sand (but this quick trip also makes it a smaller beach — not as much sand to spread out in).

What are your favorite beaches in Laguna Beach?

Linked to: Local Adventurer

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Let’s Talk Travel

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Part of the reason (a big part) I started this blog was to provide comprehensive guides of cities I have traveled to. I already research like crazy before a trip, excursion, getaway, restaurant (anything really) and so I wanted this blog available to those who don’t love researching as much and just wanted to know the best of the best.
Let’s be honest, a big part of the fun for me in traveling is the research in discovering the best mix of touristy must sees and local gems. That feeling after your research has paid off and memories are made is priceless.

Sometimes (okay, maybe a majority of the time) I wish I could go to a different city every day and explore and find the best things to do, eat, see and experience. It would be a dream really. Unfortunately, that is not my day time gig so for now I will travel the world every day through pictures and others’ experiences. Sometimes I feel like I work so hard to save money to travel the world and yet because I have a day job my travel is insanely limited. I don’t know how people do it. Between holidays and family events, there goes my PTO. But, I am not trying to complain. I am thankful for all that I have. I am thankful for where I am. I am thankful for living in a place that offers so many diverse staycations. I am thankful for the time I do have to travel because it makes me prioritize.

Here is a list of my current top 5 places I am planning to see and experience (it changes weekly):

1. Turks + Caicos

via

2. Puerto Rico

Via

3.Phuket, Thailand

via

4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

via

5. Istanbul, Turkey

via

Yes, I realize all of these places are surrounded by the ocean. I guess I just have sandy toes and salty hair on the brain.

What are your top five travel destinations as of late?

PS I just set up a new Facebook page so be sure to “like” my page in order to get all the new updates. Come with me on this blogging journey. The best is yet to be!

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Penny Ice Creamery

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So you know how everyone used to be obsessed with cupcake shops and now the obsession has moved to macaron shops? Well although I do enjoy those sweet treats, my favorite shop to scour the streets and internet for is homemade icecream. My sweet tooth loves nothing more than unique flavors and waffle cones (homemade of course). And guess what I found while in the Santa Cruz area? The Penny Ice Creamery!

It was amazing!! Like died and gone to heaven amazing. I tried almost every flavor because with a menu that diverse how are you really supposed to settle on just one? My top three were salted butter toffee, honey yogurt walnut jam and peaches n’ cream (in the end I went with salted butter toffee). Another plus, the flavors change daily! I would probably at lease peruse the menu everyday if I lived in the area. I have to do my due diligence, right?

Yes, this was my second dessert in 3 hours and yes it was completely worth it. B said, “This must be your favorite day having two chart topping desserts in one afternoon”. Yes B, it was a great day.

I saw this house on our walk to The Penny Ice Creamery and had to snap a photo. I really love all homes with ivy growing lusciously on the exterior. I dream of having an ivy covered home someday.

What are your favorite flavors of ice cream and where can I get it? Please do tell!

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Strawberry Picking in Davenport

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This weekend B and I headed to Davenport to go strawberry picking. We were excited to spend the first day of Summer at a beach town soaking up the sun. Little did we know it would be insanely windy, overcast and 60 degrees (really makes me miss my Southern California beaches) but some great memories were made nonetheless!

Davenport is a small town about 12 miles north of Santa Cruz. It is known for Whale City Bakery and Swanton Berry Farm. It also has some beautiful cliff side beaches — do stop at Shark Fin Cove (also known as Shark Tooth Beach) for some gorgeous views of the whole coast. It was a little too foggy when we went to show the views I am talking about but trust me, don’t miss it! Shark Fin Cove is located 1 mile south of Davenport Beach.

First stop, Swanton Berry Farm. Swanton Berry Farm is a quaint farm where you are able to pick strawberries from their luscious fields and purchase their homemade pies, cobblers, scones and jams yummmmmm.

I grew up with strawberries growing in my backyard so being here in these fields really brought me back. It was fun to walk up and down searching for the best of the best. Swanton Berry Farm provides a box that you fill to your hearts content and then pay by the pound. I plan to eat our strawberries dipped in sour cream and brown sugar (have you ever tried doing that? I know it sounds crazy but it is scrumptious).

There is a shop located in the back of the farm where they sell the baked goods and fresh jam (it is also where you pay for your strawberries). When you first step inside, you feel like your transported back in time. I almost felt like I was at my grandfathers house with all the vintage knick knacks decorating the place. It was quite charming. They even have you pay for your goods by way of “The Honor Till”, which means putting your money in their open cash register (aka CASH ONLY + no tax).

Do not leave this little gem without getting some type of jam or baked good. Everything there is so delicious and fresh! I opted for the Olallieberry cobbler (topped with homemade whip cream — the only kind of whip cream worth eating). It was amazing and not too sweet. B had fun taking pics of all the fun vintage trinkets (including this camera). How cute is that little pitcher? I wish it was for sale!

All in all, it was a great day in the strawberry fields.

How did you celebrate the new season?

ems

Link up: Local Adventurer

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A Foodie’s Guide to Disneyland

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As mentioned in my previous post, this weekend we headed south to meet my in laws and experience Disneyland. I have not been to Disneyland in about 6 years(…and now remember why). First tip, do not go to Disneyland over Memorial Day weekend. A Disneyland employee told us that besides New Years, Memorial Day Weekend is the busiest time to visit. The crowds were insane! We rode on about 12 rides the 14 hours we were at the park. Nevertheless, It was an adventure and many memories were made!

I enjoy the various rides at Disneyland (space mountain is definitely my favorite) but what excites me is the sweet treats. So without further or do, let’s get to the best eats at the Happiest Place on Earth!

1. Dole Whip – available at the Tiki Juice Bar in Adventure Land
This treat is a classic and probably the most recognizable. I prefer to get the dole whip float so the pineapple soft serve is submerged in fresh pineapple juice. It is quite refreshing –I kept on wishing I was devouring this treat at a beach. A girl can dream right?

2. PB&J Soda – available at Carnation Cafe on Main St.
I, unfortunately, did not have a spare moment to try this drink but I hear it is a must– When else will you drink a PB& J? It is described as “A tall, fizzy concoction that looks like a grape soda but has a delicious backbeat of peanut butter.” If you do try, please let me know what you think!

3. Matterhorn Macaroon – available at Jolly Holiday Bakery on Main St.
This treat is instagram worthy (especially when standing in view of the actual Matterhorn). I already love coconut macaroons so to have the added white chocolate icing on top, truly hits the spot. Wish this was available outside of the park!

4. Churro – available all over the park as well as Downtown Disney
This is B’s favorite treat and Disney sure knows how to make it perfectly warm and sugared! Although churro stands are located through out the park, I hear the best place to get one is California Churros located in Downtown Disney where there are multiple flavors to choose from!

5. Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter sandwich - available at Pooh’s corner in Critter Country
My absolute favorite combination is chocolate and peanut butter! Nothing compares to milk chocolate and smooth salty peanut butter (salted caramel is second). I actually made this treat at home a couple years ago before even buying one at Disneyland and let me tell you, you can’t even taste the difference! I am glad I finally have a way to bring Disneyland home with me.

sorry for the blurriness…this photo was taken as we were racing to the Matterhorn!

6. Beignets – available at Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square
I have been to New Orleans a couple times before and although these beignets are not up to the Cafe du Monde standard, they are still very good and are in the shape of mickey mouse. I suggest ordering a hot chocolate and dunking your beignets for a whole new twist.

7. Blue Bayou – located inside the Pirate of the Caribbean ride
This was my first time eating at the Blue Bayou and can guarantee it won’t be my last! I loved the low lighting and Southern architecture. The most famous dish at the Blue Bayou is called the Monte Cristo. It is a deep fried ham + cheese sandwich sprinkled with powder sugar accompanied with vanilla and berry sauces. Everyone at our table ordered the Monte Cristo and could not stop raving about it. However, I am not a ham person so I opted to try the chicken entree which was very good as well. I do recommend getting reservations for this restaurant at least a month in advance because it can book up fast (especially in the summer months).

8. Plaza Inn – located on Main Street
This cafeteria style restaurant is a great pit stop for any meal while at Disneyland. We ate dinner here and had fabulous fried chicken! The Plaza Inn also serves salad, soup and pasta. The velvet decor inside makes you feel like you are in the South about to sit down for tea. I also love the striped pink umbrellas that paint the patio.

9. Lobster Roll – available at Harbor Gallery in Critter Country
Again, I didn’t have a chance to try so I am relying on my research when suggesting this entree, but from the sound of it I wish I had one more day in Disneyland to taste it.

10. Hungry Bear Restaurant - located in Critter Country
This restaurant has great BBQ + pie. It also tends to be less crowded, which is always a plus in my book. Although no regular fries are served, the sweet potato fries are a great substitute and better for you! Don’t forget to try the lemon cupcake that tastes like lemon meringue!

This guide is purely Disneyland so there are a few things below I hope to try the next time I am at California Adventure:

1. Churro Bites (Cozy Cone Motel)
2. Ramone’s Pear of Dice Soda (Cozy Cone Motel)
3. Rose Petal Soda (Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge)
4. Quake Shake (Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory)
5. Burger (Taste Pilot’s Grill)

What are you favorite things to eat at Disneyland?

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