10 Steps to Create a Successful Travel Blog
If you've been thinking about starting a travel blog or looking for ways that you can start to take your blog more seriously, check out this guide with the 10 steps you need to create a successful travel blog. We've included over 20 resources and bonus materials in here, which is perfect for the ambitious travel + lifestyle blogger! Uncover how to find your voice as a blogger, how to create a blog business plan, the best cameras and courses for bloggers, and other tips to keep you motivated!
10 Steps to Create a Successful Travel Blog
“Oh, don’t bother starting a blog now. The market is wayyyy too saturated and it’s impossible to be successful at this stage in the game. The only people who are successful are the ones who started way back when.”
“Blogs are so over. They had their moment; but now, nobody pays attention to blogs anymore.”
“Why would you even bother blogging? It’s so time consuming and unrewarding.”
Have you heard any of these things before?
I sure have.
In fact, these are all things people have said to me at some point along my blogging career. And one of the statements above is actually an exact quote from an ex when I told him I was starting this blog. HA!
Unfortunately, we live in a society where some people tend to belittle, discourage, or undermine the success of others. There are just some people who can’t stand to see other people happy or excited for wanting to pursue their dreams or passions. They try to impose their own self-limiting behaviors and beliefs on you so that you won’t reach your full potential. They’ll do anything they can to make sure that you stay on the path of mediocrity.
But like DJ Khaled always says, we should never listen to “THEY.” We can learn to turn that noise down, stick to our guns, and pursue those passions anyway! I kinda think that’s the beauty in success after all—when someone tells you, “You can’t,” and you just say, “WATCH ME,” and make it happen. I love it!
I remember reading somewhere that 90-some percent of blogs created don’t make it to their 1-year anniversary. It’s been almost 3 years of blogging for me as I’m writing this (which I can’t even believe) and I’ve learned so much over the course of that time. I’ve made a ton of mistakes, dealt with personal anxieties and fears, and have ultimately come out the other end stronger.
Since many readers ask me how I’ve done it, I want to share some of those strategies with you today. If you’re a blogger—aspiring, new, or even veteran—and you’re wondering how you can create a successful travel blog (or maybe you’re just feeling stuck and need some inspiration), this article is for you. *Scroll to the bottom to find all the resources used in this post!
1. Start Your Blog
Well, this one is pretty obvious. But you can’t really have a successful travel blog if you don’t have a blog to begin with. If you need help on starting your travel or lifestyle blog, just follow these 5 simple steps that I’ve outlined here. For less than a cup of coffee at Starbucks, you can get your blog started in under an hour (and get a free website domain) with Bluehost, which I go over in my tutorial, or HostGator.
There are tons of blogging platforms available these days (WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, Weebly, etc.), but I would suggest either WordPress or Squarespace. I’ve personally used both, and you can even see my comparison of the two right below.
RELATED: How to Start a Travel Blog; WordPress vs. Squarespace
2. Write: Be vulnerable, Develop your voice, and provide a new perspective
The best way to become a successful blogger is to actually use your blog. WRITE! But don’t just write fluff for the sake of hitting “PUBLISH.” Write about something you’re passionate about. There’s a huge difference in writing about something you're passionate about versus something that you feel meh about.
Proof? When I was growing up, I LOATHED English and writing class. For real. If you went back in time and told my 16-year old self that I was going to grow up and make a living from writing, I would laugh in your face. I NEVER thought this would be where my life would end up. But as it turns out, it’s pretty effortless for me to pump out an article about traveling to some destination that I swoon over, or to be vulnerable and give advice in article about my fear of flying.
Which brings me to my next point...
When you’re writing, try to be vulnerable. Be yourself. Let your readers get to know the real you. This is how you’re going to get people to connect with you and how you will start to develop your voice as a writer. If you can find a way to write how you talk or inject your personality into your posts someway, I promise you that it will make a massive difference.
Also, try to find ways that you can provide your readers with a new perspective. Tell or show them something that other people haven’t or aren’t already doing. That’s going to be your secret sauce to success, my friend. (PS—this doesn’t have to be rocket science. YOUR perspective as YOU is sometimes something different enough. Use that!)
*BONUS: Research a little before you write your articles. See the information that people are actually searching for so you can provide the answers. Tools like Google Keyword Planner are great for bloggers because you can see the absolute best ways to name your blog posts based on what people are searching for.
3. Run Your Blog Like a Business
Want to know the difference between regular bloggers and successful bloggers? The successful bloggers actually treat their blog(s) like a business. They have plans with actionable steps, deadlines, and goals. They know that every post has to have meaning or substance behind it and they aren’t just posting to shout out into the void.
If you want to seriously take your blog to the next level, you need to start treating it like a business—business plan and all! Sure, you can skip this step if you want to take the easy route; but I guarantee that you’ll be a lot better suited if you go through the steps of actually sitting down and writing a plan instead of winging it. If you’re not sure how to create a blog business plan, just head to my Free Resource Library to download your own PDF copy.
RELATED: 10 Common Blogging Mistakes You Should Avoid if You Want to Turn Your Blog Into a Business
4. Invest in Your Business: Equipment, E-courses, and Mentoring
If you’re actually serious about treating your blog like a business, you’re going to have to make some investments. But trust me—the investments will reap plenty of rewards down the line.
I’m not only talking about the cost of your hosting service or mail provider. I’m talking about learning investments, photography equipment, and even mentorships or masterminds with other bloggers/entrepreneurs.
EQUIPMENT
If you’re a travel blogger, your blog’s success will tend to rely heavily on your photography skills. It’s your JOB to promote destinations and the things to do there, so you have to have beautiful photos that resonate with that message. I mean, when was the last time you saw a shitty photo of a destination on Instagram and thought, “I can’t wait to go there”? Never. It will turn you off. So don’t do that to your readers.
Invest in quality camera equipment. The cameras that I recommend most for travel blogging are the Sony RX100 MIII ($698, great for on-the-go and vlogging) and the Sony a6000 ($698, perfect substitute/replacement for the clunky DSLRs). There are tons of other accessories and gear that I recommend right here in the TCS Travel Shop. And whatever you do, DON’T FORGET TO GET YOURSELF AN EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE TO BACK EVERYTHING UP!
In terms of photography editing equipment, I highly recommend upgrading your editing software to something more professional like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop. I use Adobe’s Creative Cloud Lightroom Photography Plan, which has been a game changer, and it’s only $9.99/month. To really kick things up a notch (and to make them a helluva lot easier), I purchased and installed these 'Dreamy Presets' Lightroom Presets so that I can beautifully and effortlessly edit all of my photos with the click of a button. If you want to try them out—which I wholly suggest—you can even use my discount code “THECITYSIDEWALKS10” for 10% off your order! I personally love the New York, Los Angeles, and Santorini presets.
E-COURSES
In the last 3 years of blogging, I’ve invested at least $1000 into e-Courses. The benefits? I’ve learned way more in the few hours, days, or weeks it took me to complete those courses than I could have in years. It sped up the learning time and grew my business like no other. It even inspired me to create my own e-Course (with another one coming soon!).
My 3 favorite e-Courses for travel bloggers are Travel Blog Success, Melyssa Griffin’s Pinfinite Growth, and Melyssa Griffin’s List Surge. I back them up 100% and recommend them to everyone. You can even watch Melyssa's Pinterest Webinar for FREE to see if it's a good fit for you.
MENTORSHIPS OR MASTERMINDS
My wise father has always said to me, “I’m not smart; I’m just old and I know a lot of shit because I’ve experienced a lot of shit.” Duly noted, pops.
But he has a point... People who have been around and experienced things tend to know more about them. And who better to learn from than someone who has already gone through what you’re about to go through?
This is one reason why I put so much emphasis on the value of mentoring and/or mastermind groups. There’s something so great about learning something without having to go through the hardships and mistakes yourself. It’s like another version of time travel if you think about it.
If you have the opportunity to work with a mentor or join a mastermind, do it! Chances are that you will make back your investment 10 times over and walk away with a different, fresh perspective on your business. I even offer 1-on-1 mentorships for my readers, which is one of my favorite parts of this job! I truly love helping others and working together to get those creative, successful juices flowing. (PS—if you want to sign up to work with me, just head right here!)
5. Connect with Others: Your readers, fellow bloggers, and potential readers
The best way to grow your blog is to get out of your comfort zone and connect with others. Thanks to social media, you can easily do this while lounging on your couch in your sweatpants. Use social media to read and respond to comments from your followers/readers, engage with other bloggers or travel enthusiasts by liking/commenting on their content, and even discover new potential readers by finding users who are using similar hashtags or posting similar content.
Obviously, there are ways to really kick it up a notch and get face-to-face with your readers or other bloggers. You could host meet-ups with your readers (a popular tactic used by many travel bloggers), or you could even collaborate with other bloggers in a variety of ways and agree to promote each other’s content. Just get creative and think outside the box!
6. Ignore the Haters
You’ll know you’ve made it when you start to get some haters coming through. It’s inevitable. Remember what I said at the beginning of this post, though? Don’t let “THEY” bring you down!
If you happen to get an off-putting comment or some negativity thrown your way, just ignore it. Don’t invest your time or energy into people who sit behind a computer screen and try to ruin your positive vibes.
The more positive energy you put out into the world, the more you will get back. So brush it off, delete it, have a laugh, and move on. You’re better than them anyways ;)
7. Always be Growing and Test New Strategies
As a business owner, you should always be looking for ways to expand your reach and continue growing. HINT: This is where having a business plan really comes into play. You should always have a vision of where you are and where you want to go so you can create a plan of attack for how you’re going to get there.
The best time to start to expanding and growing your business is when you feel like you’ve plateaued. It’s perfectly fine to reach a place where you feel comfortable and live in that for a moment, but if you really want to continue growing and building your empire, you have to keep moving forward.
Try to be on the lookout for new strategies on how you can improve and grow. Maybe it’s revamping old content to give it a fresh perspective. Maybe it’s adding in an additional stream of revenue, like an e-Course or e-Book. Maybe it’s implementing a new tool to streamline your business or simplify things (like Tailwind or BoardBooster for Pinterest—hello life savers! BTW those links will give you a free month of each service!).
The key here is to pick one thing, tool, or project at a time and dive into that one thing until you see it to completion.
I once worked with someone who was obsessed with finding new tools and systems to use to improve their business, which, in theory, seems like a good thing. However, the 2 biggest mistakes that caused them to be unsuccessful were that they were looking for tools to fix problems that didn’t exist (or weren’t a big impact on the business) and that they never focused on one thing/project at a time. So what happened? Absolutely nothing got done. There was no impact on the business and they were always struggling to prioritize the profitable projects that would actually move their business in a positive direction. Don’t be like this.
*TIP: Use the 3 P's ---> PRIORITIZE PROFITABLE PROJECTS and see them to completion. Organize one thing at a time!
8. Know Your Analytics = Know Your Value
I’ll admit, when I first started blogging, I paid zero attention to my stats. I never looked at Google Analytics. I never looked at my month-over-month growth. I never even bothered to look at where I was receiving the biggest return on my investments. Like Julia Roberts once said, “Big mistake—HUGE!”
If your goal is to start working with brands at some point, knowing your analytics is the only way that you’re going to know your value. If you want to start pitching the big brands, they are going to want to know how you stand out from the crowd. How are you going to know this if you don’t even know who your audience is, where they are coming from, or what their favorite content on your blog is?
If you haven’t already signed up for Google Analytics, do it now. It’s free, easy, and absolutely crucial to your success as a blogger. Take time every day, week, or month to look at your stats and understand them. Look to see your demographic information, where your readers are coming from, and their behavior while visiting your blog.
The single best tool on this platform is the data about which of your blog posts/pages are viewed most. If you’re logged into Google Analytics, you can find this under Behavior > Site Content > All Pages. This page is basically your golden map to the kind of content you should be creating more of. For me, my most popular posts are my City Guides. They each receive thousands of hits a month and this clues me into the fact that I need to be making more City Guides!
The more you get to know your analytics, the better chance you have at negotiating partnerships with brands. Know your engagement, your monthly UV’s + page views, and the demographics of your readers. It will give you a huge leg up if you understand these facts and can properly convey them to your potential partners.
*BONUS: If you want an idea of how much you should be charging for partnerships based on your stats, there’s a guide for that in my Free Resource Library!
9. Start Monetizing from the Beginning
I get an email in my inbox at least once a week from readers asking me how long they need to wait before they start monetizing their blog. My answer? Do it now.
Seriously! There is no secret sauce or rule to when or how long you should be waiting until you can begin to monetize your blog. I know this is soooo contradictory to what tons of other “veteran” bloggers might say, but I’m not them. Start now because the sooner you do it, the sooner you’ll be making money.
There is no reason why you can't begin to try and monetize from the beginning. The easiest and quickest way to do this is to join an affiliate program that pays you a commission for recommending a company’s products or services.
The first affiliate program I ever joined was the Amazon Affiliate Program, which I’m still part of today. But, I’ll be honest here: I didn’t see my first commission check from Amazon (which required you to have $100 threshold before they paid you) until maybe almost a year after I joined. However, once I hit that threshold, my traffic was also simultaneously growing, so it was easier for me to reach that $100 mark much quicker. Now, I receive a check from Amazon at least every other month or so. It might not be a lot, but it’s passive income that I’m making without doing anything, which is AWESOME.
You can also start to monetize by joining other affiliate programs (like ShareASale or CJ), or by creating your own digital products, such as e-Books or e-Courses. You can use a service like GetDPD to sell them effortlessly and digitally. Plus, they have a built in affiliate program so you can even bring on affiliates of your own to help you sell more!
*Bonus: In addition to monetizing your blog from the beginning, I highly recommend starting an email list to grow from the beginning. This is where you have the potential to really hit it out of the park with monetizing. I learned all of my tricks from Melyssa Griffin’s List Surge, which I highly recommend.
10. GET OUT & TRAVEL!
I hope this one is a no-brainer. If you want to be a successful travel blogger, you’re going to have to travel! Get out there, have adventures, get into predicaments, and make unforgettable memories. Do and experience things that are out of your comfort zone! These are the beautiful moments that you’re going to be able to share with your audience.
But don’t get caught up in the idea that you have to be on the road 24/7 to travel, unless that’s what you want. You can just as easily write a travel blog by experiencing things that happen around your community, city, state, or province.
The point is you should do what makes you happy and whatever ignites your soul. All of that energy will come through in your content and make your readers happy.
BONUS 1: Be Patient
Having a successful travel blog takes time. It never happens overnight. It takes a lot of work, time, and dedication. Be patient with it.
I’ll also throw in that no two blogs are the same. Don’t get caught up in the moment of comparing yourself to another blogger who is on a totally different journey than you. Don’t compare your success to their success or it will throw you into a downward spiral. Trust me, I’ve been there/done that. Be patient. There is room at the top for everybody and your time will come!
BONUS 2: Take Time for YOU
Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt burned out before? *AGGRESSIVELY RAISES BOTH HANDS*
November 2016 was the beginning of a really tough time for me. I had just moved to a new city and away from a life and people that I loved. I moved in with my boyfriend and I had a whole bunch of other life changing things take over. On top of that, I never properly dealt with the emotions of all these things happening at once.
For months, I felt stuck. I had all these emotions bottled up inside of me and I didn’t know what to do with them or who to turn to for guidance. I realized that I was forgetting to do one major thing that could pull me out of this: I wasn’t taking care of myself. I wasn’t working out like I used to. I wasn’t eating properly. I was depressed and couldn’t get out of bed some days. I wasn’t even doing my nails!
It’s times like these that we really need to learn to take a step back sometimes and take care of ourselves. If you ever find yourself in a moment where you feel overwhelmed or like there's too much going on, take a step back and breathe. Take time for you. Pamper yourself. Love yourself. Take yourself out to the movies. Take care of your body, mind, and soul. Make sure to do this every once in awhile, or blogging will start to feel like a burden.
BONUS 3: Don’t Stress About Perfection
One thing that I hear over and over from my clients is that they are waiting to publish their blog or blog posts until it’s perfect. NO!!! DO. NOT. DO. THIS.
Waiting to hit “Publish” until something is perfect is only going to throw you into a spiral of analysis paralysis and overanalyzing. You need to remember that “done” or “good” is always better than “perfect.” Nothing will ever be perfect, so just get comfortable with the idea that you can always go back and change something that you don’t like. Hell, I’ve changed my blog layout 5 or 6 times since I hit the publish button 3 years ago.
One last thing to note about perfection: The blogger to-do list is literally endless. There are ALWAYS things that you can work on, improve, or create. If you don’t get to everything on the list or all the things you “should be” doing (like being on social media constantly every day), don’t stress about it. Just do what you can to make things work.
The best advice is to end each day being able to say, “I did ONE thing today that is going to move my business forward.” Whether that’s posting a blog post, starting your email list, or outlining that new e-Course you want to create. Just know that everything will work out in the end as long as you do one thing each day.
Resources in this post:
My Travel + Blogging Resources Page (tons of FREE offers and deals!)
10 Common Blogging Mistakes You Should Avoid if You Want to Turn Your Blog into a Business
Adobe’s Creative Cloud Lightroom Photography Plan, $9.99/month
'Dreamy Presets' Lightroom Presets (10% off with code THECITYSIDEWALKS10)
Tailwind (Free 30-Day Trial with my link + $15 off!)
BoardBooster (Free 30-Day Trial with my link)
GetDPD (Free 30-Day Trial with my link)
What are other tips you have for your fellow bloggers? If you have any questions about blogging, feel free to comment below!
This page may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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How to Overcome Your Fear of Flying: 6 Easy Tips to Conquer Your Anxieties
Confession Time: I'm a travel blogger who is afraid of flying. For real. Luckily, after years of practice, I've come up with an easy system for how to overcome this fear of flying every time I step onto an airplane. And now, I'm sharing my tips with you! If you're like me and you hate the feeling of turbulence, check out these 6 easy tips to conquer your fears and anxieties of flying.
How to Overcome Your Fear of Flying: 6 Easy Tips to Conquer Your Anxieties
“Oh shit... Here it goes again. Just try to breathe. Just breathe. Try to stay calm.”
My fists white knuckle into the armrests as my entire upper body is folded over my lap with my head in between my legs. My eyes are closed tight and I can feel the fear and pain begin to wash over my body. My heart is pounding and feels like it’s beating out of my chest. The fear is beginning to take over and every millimeter of movement starts to feel like imminent death.
“This is it. I can’t hold it in anymore. I don’t care what people think anymore.” I continue think to myself. “No, Ana! JUST BREATHE. YOU GOT THIS! BREATHE. IN. OUT.” It was like I was stuck in the middle of a game my brain was playing where it was being both the angel and the devil and I didn’t know which one to listen to.
But I couldn’t hold it in anymore. The fear had won this time.
“Oh fuck... Here come the tears...” I think to myself as an uncontrollable stream of “Kim Kardashian ugly cry” sized tears and sobs start wailing out of me. I don’t even care that people are staring at this point. I can’t stop it. It won’t stop. My mind has gone into complete survival mode and I’ve abandoned all sense of reasoning and logic to make myself stop crying. The panic attack has set in.
It was my first full-fledged panic attack on an airplane thanks to my fear of flying and turbulence. If it wasn’t for the kind woman sitting next to me in 7B who felt so bad that she held my hand and rubbed my back as I was sobbing, I don’t know what I would’ve done or how much longer it would have lasted. Although, we did have a good laugh once we landed safely and she asked me what I did for a living. “I’m a travel blogger,” I said timidly. The sheer irony of the person who travels for a living having an epic meltdown in the air—something that most people think I’d be used to by now—was pretty comical after the moment ended.
But it’s true. And now I’m letting my fears be known to the world.
My name is Ana Dominguez and I have a fear of flying.
It's shocking for a person who travels so much—I know.
Uttering the words (and even writing them) is such a bizarre thing to me, though, because I wasn’t always like this. I used to get such a thrill from the feeling of taking off or being in the air. But somewhere along the way, that feeling turned sour.
Maybe Hollywood is to blame for making movies about aircraft tragedies. Maybe airline corporations are to blame for making their cabins feel increasingly more claustrophobic. Maybe the media is to blame for broadcasting every tiny detail that goes wrong with/on airplanes these days. Maybe it’s just getting older and being more aware of the perils of everyday life. I don’t really know what it was, but something switched in my head within the last 10 years that triggered my fear of flying and turbulence (or rather the fear of falling to my death from the sky) that still affects me every single time I step foot on a plane.
Truth be told, I’ve actually gotten much better at coping with my fear (and am even writing this article while sitting on a plane that has already had a couple of uncomfortable bumps), which was one of my intentions of writing this. I’m hoping that by vocalizing this fear and sharing how I’ve been able to cope with it, it will work as some sort of therapeutic release in the sense that I’m letting the energy go while also helping others overcome their fears. Plus, now you can have someone to relate to!
Which brings me to my second intention of writing this article: I want to share all of the methods and things that I’ve done over the last couple of years to learn how to conquer this fear. And, no, I didn’t spend thousands of dollars on hypnosis (although that would be pretty cool, now that I think about it...). These 6 tips are all simple, little things that you can start doing today and even use on your next trip to overcome your fear of flying!
1. Breathe like a Yogi
If you’ve ever taken a human biology class, a yoga class, or even learned about basic physiology, you’ve probably heard all about the importance of breathing and receiving oxygen to the brain. One of the top reasons why our brains start to go into panic mode whenever they do is because they aren’t receiving enough oxygen to properly operate and function as they would if things were calm. That’s why it’s so important to remember to breathe whenever you’re going through something stressful—whether it’s emotional, mental, or physical.
For me, learning how to meditate (which, thanks to technology, can be done by watching a single YouTube video) and properly breathe has really come in handy during my moments of flight panic.
But did you catch what I just said there? *PROPERLY* breathe. Not just regular breathing, but expert breathing. It’s more than just taking a breath in and out. There are actually ways for you to do it so that you can calm yourself down and get the most oxygen possible. Here are my two favorite ways:
- Belly Breathing:
Take a deep breath in and a deep breath out right now. If your shoulders move up and down while you’re doing it, you’re doing it wrong. To really get the most oxygen while breathing, focus on breathing in deep through the belly and visualize your diaphragm and stomach filling up with as much air as you can possibly take in. Your shoulders shouldn’t be moving up and down and your upper body shouldn’t be doing much either. When you breathe out, let out every bit of air as if you were a balloon becoming completely deflated. Now do this to counts. Breathe in for 3-5 counts and breathe out for 3-5 counts. Slowing down the breath like this will help the flow of oxygen in your system and get you more relaxed.
- Single Nostril Breathing:
This is a great technique I learned from a friend of mine who also deals with anxieties and panic attacks. I love this one because it forces you to focus on the breathing technique instead of your fears or anxieties. You’re going to use the thumb, index finger, and middle finger of one of your hands for this. Choose a hand and place the index finger directly above the bridge of your nose on your third eye. Place the thumb on one nostril to cover it up and breath deeply through the other nostril that is open. Once you have breathed in all the air you can through that open nostril, use your middle finger to cover up the nostril that was just open and breathe out through the nostril that was just closed. Now breathe in through that same nostril, close it with the thumb, and breathe out the other nostril. Keep alternating and repeat this until you feel like you have reached a steady pace of breathing or your anxiety has subsided. Like I said, I love this one because it helps me take my mind off of what’s going on around me.
I can’t even stress enough how important breathing is when you’re feeling panicked on a flight (or any situation, for that matter). I know I’m guilty of forgetting to do this sometimes, but breathing properly has definitely come in handy more times than I could count.
Bonus: If you really want to step up your relaxation game, you can buy a small bottle of lavender oil to dab on your wrists or put inside your palms to breathe in while you’re practicing these exercises. I always carry a small bottle with me in my carry-on bag just in case I need it.
2. Have a designated meditation or calming playlist ready to go on your phone
In addition to the breathing techniques, I’ve learned that having a soothing playlist to listen to can really help put you in the zone and focus your mind on calming down.
I personally love using Spotify and have even created my own designated playlist of meditation music to listen to whenever I start feeling anxious. It helps put me at ease and tells my brain, “It’s time to chill out.” But you don’t necessarily have to use meditation music. Whatever genre of music works to put you in that relaxation mood, use it on your own personal playlist.
3. BOSE. NOISE. CANCELING. HEADPHONES.
I know that I said all of these tips were going to be cheap and easy enough to start doing now, but this one is the exception to the rule. But I promise it’s an exception for a very good reason.
For me, one of the biggest sources of my anxiety on planes is the noise that comes from the aircraft bumping and shaking (screaming children don’t help either...). You know what I’m talking about, right? It’s those creaky, bumpy sounds that happen when turbulence starts to set in. Yep, I can’t stand it. It makes me feel like death is upon me. The only solution to this was to start listening to calming music (as mentioned in #2) to put me at ease.
I used to use regular headphones on flights like most people and they worked fine. But, a couple years ago on my birthday, my mom got me quite possibly the best gift ever for my flying anxiety: a pair of Bose Noise Canceling Earbuds.
OH, BUDDY, DID THESE DO THE TRICK!
Popping those babies in took me to a whole new world. As soon as I turned them on and started my meditation playlist, I was immediately transported to my own personal oasis away from all the noise, fears, and anxieties of traveling. It was like a switch had flipped and I wasn’t as nervous anymore since I couldn’t hear the noises of the aircraft.
Sure, the bumps of turbulence are still there; but it feels a wholeeee lot different when you can’t actually hear what’s going on. Kinda takes the edge off, if you will. I swear by these headphones and 100% recommend them (or any type of noise cancelling headphones) for people who have trouble with flying.
FYI—if you can’t splurge on headphones, you can also just get a nice pair of earplugs. I personally prefer and recommend the headphones because you can put on soothing music, but whatever works for you!
4. Watch the flight attendants
I learned this tip from a flight attendant who was sitting next to me on another nail-biting turbulence tunnel. He saw how nervous I was getting with every shake and bump and assured me that everything was totally fine. He said something along the lines of, “Look, we do this multiple times a day, every day. We can tell when the bumps are fine and when they are REALLY not fine. 98% of the time, it’s totally fine and nothing to worry about.”
He suggested to me that any time I start to feel nervous when things get a little shaky to just take cues from the flight attendants. Look up to find them and see how they are reacting. Are they panicking? No? Ok, then you shouldn’t either. You’ll be able to tell how things are really going based on how chill (or not chill) they are. Most of the time, when the pilot tells everyone to get back to their seats, it’s just a precautionary measure. You can even see how little it affects the flight attendants as they’re Instagramming or chatting it up with their co-workers.
5. Talk to a pilot
I know this one is a little unconventional, but if you ever get the chance to talk to a pilot about the science of flying, do it. I once struck up a conversation with a pilot that I met on the streets of London and we started talking about turbulence over the Atlantic Ocean. As soon as he started explaining exactly what turbulence was and how safe we actually were in that flying steel bird, it sorta put me at ease. It’s almost like the mystery of what was going on and the fear that we were going to fall out of the sky because of turbulence had melted away.
My new friend explained to me that these massive aircrafts are built to withstand tons of turbulence, which is a really just a strong gust of wind when you think about it. Often times, when you feel like the plane just dropped hundreds of feet, that’s just your headspace getting in the way; it’s actually only a couple of inches or feet, which is nothing in the grand scheme of things. He also explained how it’s literally impossible to fall out of the sky when you’re flying and that you’re safer in a plane than you are in a car.
I’m telling you—learning a little bit of the science behind flying helped me a lot. For instance, did you know that an airplane could fly safely with only one engine and land without any? Incredible! All these facts shed some light on the scary stuff and made me better understand what was really happening. Maybe learning how to fly or becoming a pilot should be my next step in overcoming my fears...
6. Reframe your thought process
Thoughts are EVERYTHING! The power of positive thinking can really come in handy for every situation, even flying. If you can start to tell yourself that everything is fine and you’re totally safe, eventually your brain will start to believe it. Think positive thoughts and reframe your thought process into something better.
Another travel friend of mine said that any time she starts to feel the plane get shaky, she just thinks of it as a little, harmless road bump. One time she told me, “Well, what’s the worst that can happen? A drink falls over? Meh! That’s nothing.” So that’s what she has taught her brain to think: The worst thing that will happen is a drink will fall over, which you can easily clean up. It’s much better to fill your head with less catastrophic outcomes like this one.
What about the booze?
I don’t recommend this every time, but sometimes a cocktail or a glass of wine can definitely help to relax the nerves a bit. This needs to be done with caution, though, because too much alcohol can dehydrate you and reap horrors for your complexion and system. It can even negatively trigger anxiety since alcohol is a depressant. But I’d be a hypocrite if I didn’t say that I’ve had a couple glasses of Sauvignon Blanc to calm down from the panic of flying...
No mention of Xanax or pills, either?
If this method works for you, that’s great! There are some people who actually really need some kind of substance(s) to calm the nerves, which is totally fine as long as your doctor recommends it and is supervising your dosage. I don’t personally subscribe to this method of relaxation because I try to be as homeopathic with my medication and remedies as possible, but I’m not against it. I just prefer other ways of easing the tension.
Like I said earlier, all of these methods and practices are things that I’ve learned over the last few years of traveling in order to deal with my anxieties. If you have issues with flying, use one, none, or all of them if you’d like! The key here is to acknowledge and confront your fears in a healthy manner and figure out what works best for you.
Do you have anxieties or fears of flying? What things do you do to help or overcome those fears? Let me know what you thinkin the comments!
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Where to Stay in Santorini: Esperas Hotel
Santorini is an idyllic and unforgettable destination that should be on every traveler's bucket list. If you're searching for where to stay in Santorini--or where you can find the best sunset, food, or views--look no further than the settlement of Oia in Santorini. Tucked away along the cliffsides of this colorful island is the Esperas Hotel in Oia. This hotel is the perfect escape for all types of travelers who are looking to enjoy everything Santorini has to offer. Take a look and see what's inside this luxury hideaway to prepare for your once in a lifetime trip to Santorini, Greece!
Esperas Hotel: A Hidden Escape Along the Cliffside of Santorini
Like most travelers with wanderlust, Santorini has been a destination high on my bucket list for years. I mean, YEARS! I can’t even count how many times I fell in love with the sight of those colorful buildings built into the rocky cliffside, the bright white churches with royal blue domes grazing the sky, and the vibrant colors of the Aegean Sea sparkling in front of the sandy beaches. It’s nothing short of a fairy tale setting in the middle of the sea.
When my friend Stephanie and I decided to book a last minute girl’s trip to the Greek Islands, we knew we couldn’t pass up a stop in Santorini for a few days. To be honest, I had no idea where to begin to look for where to stay in Santorini, or that there were even multiple towns to choose from. After some research, we settled on staying in Oia for a few nights (followed by Fira for the other two nights in Santorini). In my opinion, not only does Oia have the best views of Santorini, but also it’s arguably the best place to watch the sunset on the whole island.
We wanted to be able to stay somewhere that we could easily walk in/out of town, watch the sunset near the caldera, and bonus points if the hotel had caves (which, apparently, is a popular thing to experience in Santorini!). Esperas Hotel in Oia proved to be the perfect location for us to stay during our trip—and it checked each thing off our wish list—so we were excited to check it out!
Getting to Santorini from Mykonos
After spending a few days in Mykonos, we took the early morning ferry from Mykonos Town to Santorini. I’ll admit, it did feel a little bit like we were being herded like cattle (and the cattle were some really horrendous, loud international tourists); but after a quick, couple-hour boat ride, we arrived safely in Santorini.
After an experience like that and getting shoved around by obnoxious tourists trying to rush off the boat to see Santorini for the day, I cannot even begin to tell you how happy I was to disembark and see a man from Esperas right at the front of the group of drivers holding a big sign with my name on it. Ahhhh... Our savior! Coming to rescue us from the hoards of people who were practically jumping off the ferry to be first in the taxi line! Normally, it feels pretty good to have a driver pick you up when you arrive to your destination, but this was a whole other level of feeling good.
We loved the fact that Esperas was able to offer transportation services to/from the hotel from the airport or ferry. It makes the experience totally hassle free and starts the day off on a good note! As excited as we were to get the show on the road, we still had a short drive ahead of us to get to Oia, which is located on the complete opposite side of the island from the ferry port. But, none of that matters when you have an experienced driver and lots of beautiful scenery to look at on the way!
Arriving at the Hotel
Once we arrived in Oia, the driver pulled up to a parking lot that was filled with other transport vans marked with various hotel names. He started unloading our luggage and I was super confused... I kept looking around for our hotel, but couldn’t see any façade with our hotel name in front of it. I asked our driver where the hotel was and he pointed towards a cobblestone pathway and said, "That way!". Coming swiftly down the pathway was a tall, skinny man carrying a moving dolly and some bungee cords. My mind was still lost, but it started connecting the dots after a few seconds.
“Well, no shit, Ana...” I thought to myself. “There’s no way that a car can get down the cliffside. We have to climb down some way...” And climb down a few flights of stairs is exactly what we did! After all, you’re not going to get breathtaking views of Santorini and not have to work for it...amirite?
So, Stephanie and I grabbed our purses as the bellman secured our luggage onto the dolly and we followed right behind him. As we huffed and puffed our way up and down those stairs to reach the hotel, we immediately laughed to each other and realized how this man was so in shape. Climbing some cliffside stairs 20+ times per day will give anyone a perfect body! But like I said, you can’t expect to have the best view in Santorini without working a little for it. And boy were we glad we did...
A Luxury Hideaway Where Cycladic Island Style Meets Elegant Simplicity
Once we got down to the main level of Esperas with our luggage in tow, our jaws completely dropped as we took a look around. There it was. That magical view we’d been waiting our whole lives to see was right in front of us. It made every single step on those stairs worth it.
After collecting ourselves (and our jaws from the floor), we headed into the lobby for check-in. We were given a warm greeting by the lovely staff members and immediately felt welcomed and at home. After explaining some brief in’s and out’s of the hotel, we were shown to our room.
Side note: We thought we were impressed by the bellman when he was carrying our luggage on the dolly to the lobby of the hotel. Well...to get down to our room...he had to ditch the dolly! He carried both of our bags above his head and still went down another 5+ flights of stairs. Can you imagine?! In the hot Greek sun! Those men WORK!
Esperas has a handful of different styles of accommodations ranging from sea view studios to spacious “houses” built right into the caves (some even coming with their own private outdoor jacuzzis). Since Esperas is built into the lower part of the cliff, you’re guaranteed to get a magnificent view of the Aegean Sea no matter what type of room you stay in. This was one thing that we really loved about staying here because there was no disturbance coming from any neighboring hotels. It almost felt like we were staying at a private residence with no one else to bother us.
We followed the bellman and the concierge to our room, which was located literally at the very bottom of the stairs—you couldn’t go any lower. We were full on sweating by now, but still blown away by the stunning view from our balcony and the decor of our suite.
Each of the suites and houses in Esperas is decorated and furnished with that traditional Cycladic Island style that everyone thinks of when you imagine Greece—a lot of bright whites and deep blue hues. It was the perfect touch of luxury with a hint of simplicity and elegance. And since our room was at the very bottom of the stairs, we had the most incredible unobstructed view of the sea. I couldn’t have asked for anything more beautiful to experience Santorini for the first time.
How to spend your time here
Watch the sunset
You haven’t been to Greece until you’ve experienced a Greek sunset—and the epic sunsets in Santorini are some of the best you’ll ever see. If you walk through any town of Santorini, you’ll start to see people crowding the streets around 3-4 hours before the sun even begins to set. No joke. People are that serious about catching the best sunset views in Santorini, especially in Oia. They also applaud as the sun goes down. Not joking about that either...
One very popular place to see the sunset in Oia is the Castle of Agios Nikolaos (also known as the Byzantine Castle Ruins). While I highly recommend visiting the castle during your stay (and the earlier the better), you will see that the crowds there start lining up hours before the sun starts to set. I don’t know about you, but I don’t like waiting with hundreds of other people around me for hours. Not worth it, in my opinion.
That’s where Esperas steps in!
Because this hotel is built right into the cliff—which you can actually see from the castle ruins—you basically get a completely unobstructed front row seat to watch the sunset. It really DOES NOT get better than that.
One night, we bought a bottle of wine at a bodega and drank it on our balcony while toasting the sunset. The night after that, we enjoyed the sunset view from the pool level after hanging out at a nearby restaurant. Both experiences could not be beat—AND there weren’t a ton of tourists around to kill the vibe. It really is the best place to watch the sunset in Oia, in my opinion!
Have breakfast while looking over the ocean
This might have been my second favorite experience after the sunset. A very tasty complimentary breakfast is provided to every guest who stays at Esperas. The best part is that you get to choose when and where you want to have your breakfast as long as you order it by a certain time the night before. That means if you want to have your breakfast at 9am while sitting out on your balcony (which is what we did), it will be delivered to your balcony hot and ready at 9am sharp. The menu is pretty extensive and the food was always very delicious!
Relax in the cave pool and sun deck
During peak season, Santorini can get pretty hot during the day. It’s nice to know that there is a refreshing cave pool to dip into and relax right outside your door. Go relax by the pool on the sun deck, sit in the shade and order some lunch, or sip on a smoothie at the pool bar while you cool off for the day.
Walk into town for a bit (and eat lots of pita gyros)
I’m not going to lie. At first, I was wondering if the location of Esperas would be “too far” from the things that we wanted to do in town. After all, we didn’t have a car and needed things to be within walking distance. If you look at the map, or even catch a glimpse of the hotel from the Castle of Agios Nikolaos like I said earlier, you’ll see that Esperas is basically at one end of Oia in addition to being at the lower part of the cliffside.
After spending a few days in Oia and seeing the massive crowds that Santorini can attract, coming back to our place at Esperas was like a dream come true. It was the perfect hidden escape from the crowds and noise of the town. Since it’s located on one end of town, it’s very easy to get to the city center with just a short walk. It's really ideal, especially for people who are looking to have a quiet getaway in the middle of the noise.
When you do make your way into town, just make sure you stop to eat as many pita gyros as humanly possible. My favorite place in Oia was a restaurant called Pitogyros. It’s something I still dream about and miss about being in Greece. *mouth watering*
Eat at Elinikon Restaurant and Check Out the Windmills Nearby
Stephanie and I stumbled across this hidden gem during our trek to the hotel when we were checking in. To be honest, we only went there because we were hungry and had a mad craving for some tzatziki. It turned out to be some of the best food we had during our entire trip in Greece. Every dish we ordered was so outstanding that we literally came back here every day that we were in Oia. They also have an adorable rooftop bar that makes for a great spot to watch the sunset!
Once you grab a bite to eat there, you can walk over to see the old windmills that are right next to it. The best part is that the restaurant and windmills are located just at the top of the hill on the way down to Esperas. It’s a great pit stop on the way back to the hotel or on the way out into the town.
Other notable mentions:
Take a boat ride around Santorini
Hike from Oia to Fira (another popular town about 2 hours away by foot)
Tour a winery
See the Red or White Beaches
Experience the popular nightlife during peak season
Book other excursions through the concierge
Good to know information
If you’ve read this far, you know that there are quite a few stairs to get down to the hotel from the top, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.
Reservations for the Greek Islands book far in advance and very quickly, especially during peak season. If you’re thinking about visiting, make sure to do your research with good time on your side.
Ask the concierge or booking staff if you can arrange transportation to/from your point of entry into Santorini. It is completely worth it and saves the hassle of trying to figure it out on your own.
Because Santorini can get very crowded, I recommend getting an early start to see the town—the earlier the better to avoid having hundreds of people in your photos. Plus, the sun won’t be as hot in the early morning so you won’t feel like you’re melting.
If you want to avoid crowds and excessive heat, consider going during a shoulder season (just before or after the peak season in June-August).
Esperas proved to be the missing puzzle piece in our search for the perfect location for an epic girl’s trip to Santorini. This luxury boutique hotel is truly a hidden gem of Oia and I highly recommend it to travelers who are looking for simple-yet-chic elegance, outstanding customer service, unbeatable views of the Aegean Sea + sunset, and a great value for what you’re paying. We can’t wait to return to Esperas on our next trip to Santorini!
Esperas Hotel
Oia 84702
Santorini, Greece
For more information about this hotel, please click the link below
Thank you to Esperas Santorini for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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8 Travel Beauty Tips: How to Look Fresh After a Long Haul Flight
One of the worst things about travel is when you walk off of a long haul flight feeling completely drab and disgusting. Luckily, there are a few beauty remedies that you can start using to feel completely fresh faced every time you step off a flight. Use these 8 travel beauty tips to start looking and feeling your best after any flight.
8 Travel Beauty Tips: How to Look Fresh After a Long Haul Flight
One of the worst things about travel (besides the dreaded act of packing) is when you walk off of a long haul flight feeling completely drab and disgusting. Your skin is dry, your hair is a mess, and you just feel blah.
Luckily, there are a few beauty remedies that you can start using to feel completely fresh faced every time you step off a flight. Use these 8 travel beauty tips to start looking and feeling your best after any flight.
1. Pack the Essentials in Your Carry-On
First thing will be to make sure you have all of your beauty essentials within arms reach. Make sure to pack your carry-on with all the essentials you'll need so you don't have to rummage around for them. I'll go over some of my essential items in the list below, but the best thing is to make sure you have a good bag to pack them all in. You can also see my list of 10 Beauty Products to Always Travel With.
RELATED: The Ultimate Guide of Best Weekender Bags at Every Budget for Travel
2. Hold Off on the Makeup (and maybe the contact lenses)
If your flight is more than 3 hours and you really want to feel your best when you land, it's probably best to skip on the makeup before you take off. The air in the cabin is typically pretty dry and harsh, so it's best to have a fresh face to start off with. If you really need some color, opt for the bare minimum like tinted moisturizer and a touch of concealer.
If you wear contact lenses, it can be really helpful to take them out for long haul and overnight flights to let your eyes breathe. Have your glasses and maybe some moisturizing eye drops handy to soothe your eyes before you put your lenses back in.
3. For Ladies: Prepare to Keep Fresh...Ahem...Down There
Alright ladies... How many beauty lists have we seen that talk about beauty products to travel with? Tons (Hell, I even have one)! But it seems like they all fail to mention how you can keep fresh around your lady parts. The best thing to keep handy in your bag are some panty liners, disposable cleansing cloths, and an extra change of underwear. My mom passed on this trick to me and now I never travel without any of these things in my bag. It helps to make sure you feel fresh and clean once you land, even if you can't have a shower for a while.
4. Hydrate, Moisturize, Hydrate, Repeat
The best way to step off that airplane looking fresh faced is to hydrate your body and skin as frequently as possible throughout your flight. You can do this by drinking tons of water, putting moisturizer on your face, using a sheet mask, lotioning up your hands, using lip balm, and drinking more water.
5. Skip the Salt, Coffee, and Booze
The worst thing you can do for your complexion before and during a flight is overload on salty foods and alcohol. The salt causes major bloat, which doesn't help when you're sitting for long periods of time, and the alcohol and coffee will just dry out your skin and system. If possible, opt for healthier snack choices and drink plenty of water. The more you replenish with water, the brighter your skin will look when you arrive to your destination.
6. Rest Up Comfortably
There are a few ways that you can make sure you feel totally comfortable on a flight. First, make sure you're wearing comfortable clothes (leggings, flowy tops, scarves, maxi dresses, flats, etc.) to let your skin breathe. Second, bring along a cozy blanket, a silky eye mask, and a neck pillow. A pair of earplugs or noise canceling headphones never hurt either...
7. Freshen Up Before Landing
When the flight attendants give the "final stretch" announcement before landing, that's a perfect time to start freshening up. Carry a little travel kit that has all of your essentials in it so you can grab it and head to the lavatory to take care of business. In my travel kit, I like to keep a small travel toothbrush/toothpaste, moisturizer, thermal water misting spray, highlight or concealer, a blush/bronzer kit, mascara, and my feminine care (see above #3).
8. Give Your Hair a Lift Once You Land
The final step to looking fresh after a long haul flight is to give your hair a little oomph. A little dry shampoo and some hair spray can really work wonders to make you look like you're ready to step out in style. Carrying this and a travel size hair brush will give you the perfect volume you need.
With these travel beauty tips and products, you're sure to walk off your long haul flight looking as fresh and as radiant as ever!
What are your favorite beauty tips to look fresh after a long haul flight? Comment below with more tips!
This page may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. As an affiliate partner to such websites, including Amazon Associates, I earn from qualifying purchases. All opinions are my own.
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Global Eats: Steaks with Sweet Potato Hash Browns and Chimichurri Recipe
This month's Global Eats Steak Recipe is going to bring the tastes and flavors of Argentina right to you in less than 30 minutes. Try this steak, sweet potato hash, and chimichurri recipe at home for a date night this week!
Global Eats: Steaks with Sweet Potato Hash Browns and Chimichurri Recipe
Food and travel go hand in hand like a beautiful love story that I can't help but getting in the middle of. Cuisine is a universal language of culture and travel. It is quite literally how we "taste" the places we are visiting and get to experience them on a deeper level.
So, in an effort to encourage you to bring exotic tastes home with you when you're not traveling, we're back with another Global Eats recipe! This recipe, which is brought to us by Sun Basket, explores the flavors and tastes of Argentina. And is there anything more Argentinian than a delicious steak and chimichurri recipe? This recipe makes for a perfect dinner for two, but can easily be altered with some scrambled eggs to create a delectable brunch dish.
Make sure to scroll to the bottom for an exclusive Sun Basket discount for TCS readers!
I got this recipe courtesy of Sun Basket in my Globetrotter Collection. In case you're not familiar with Sun Basket, they are an incredible company that delivers healthy, weekly meals and recipes that come from organic and sustainably sourced seasonal ingredients. Chef Justine Kelly and her team created this tasty (and Paleo-friendly) recipe as a nod to the legendary street food of Bangkok.
I really love Sun Basket because they offer a wide variety of healthy options (Gluten-free, Paleo, and Vegetarian) with their menu selections and they are extremely affordable for the value you're getting (around $11 per meal). It's like someone does the grocery shopping and meal planning for you--AND also gets you the freshest ingredients--without you even having to leave your couch. WIN-WIN! So let's get started!
Steaks with Sweet Potato Hash Browns and Chimichurri
Makes 2 Servings // 710 Calories Per Serving // 30 Minutes
Paleo - Gluten Free - Dairy Free - Soy Free
Ingredients:
- Two 6-ounce top sirloin steaks
- Steak spice rub (sweet smoked paprika - garlic powder)
- ¾ pound sweet potatoes
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 to 2 shallots
- Peeled fresh garlic
- Hash brown seasoning (cumin - dried oregano - coriander)
- 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro
- Fresh mint
Directions:
1. Prep the steaks
- Heat the oven to 200°F.
- Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel; season generously with salt and pepper.
- On a shallow dish or plate, rub the steaks all over with the steak spice rub. Let stand while you prepare the sweet potato hash.
2. Prep the hash browns; cook the potatoes
- Trim the ends from the sweet potatoes; cut the potatoes into ¼-inch cubes.
- Remove the ribs and seeds from the bell pepper; finely chop the pepper.
- Peel and finely chop the shallot.
- Finely chop enough garlic to measure 1½ teaspoons.
- In a pan over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons oil until hot but not smoking. Add the sweet potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until starting to brown, 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Finish the hash browns
- Add the bell pepper, shallots, hash brown seasoning, and half the garlic to the sweet potatoes.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook over medium-high heat until the shallots are soft for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir in ¼ cup water; cook until the potatoes are just tender, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the hash browns to a sheet pan; keep warm in the oven while you cook the steaks.
4. Cook the steaks
- Wipe out the pan.
- Add 2 tablespoons oil and warm over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Add the steaks and cook until well browned, 2 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on thickness.
- Transfer to a plate to rest for 5 minutes.
- While the steaks cook, prepare the chimichurri.
5. Make the chimichurri
- Zest and juice the lime.
- Coarsely chop the cilantro.
- Strip the mint leaves from the stems; coarsely chop the leaves.
- In a small bowl, combine the lime zest, cilantro, mint, and remaining garlic.
- Whisk in 1 tablespoon lime juice and 1 to 2 tablespoons oil.
- Season to taste with salt.
6. Serve
- Transfer the hash browns to individual plates.
- Top with the steaks, garnish with the chimichurri, and serve.
My Take on This Recipe:
This was probably one of my favorite steak dishes that I've ever tasted. The addition of the mint into the chimichurri was a unique twist on the traditional recipe that really took the flavors up a notch. The sweet potato hash was also incredibly mouth watering and flavorful to the point that we were practically licking our plates afterwards. We've even incorporated the sweet potato hash and chimichurri into other dishes we made at home because we loved it so much. I highly recommend this dish for a great date night at home! Like I said earlier, you can also add some eggs to it to make an awesome steak and eggs brunch at home, too!
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Special thanks to Sun Basket for providing this recipe and meal kit. All opinions are my own.
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A Weekend Guide to York
Just a quick, 2-hour train ride north of London is the historic city of York. It's the perfect destination to discover medieval landmarks, charming tea rooms, boisterous pubs, and the idyllic streets of The Shambles, that inspired Diagon Alley. If you're traveling to York for the first time, or even going as a day trip from London, use this travel guide to see where you can eat, sleep, and play on any budget in York!
A Weekend Guide to York
For any traveler visiting the UK (especially first timers), it's easy to get wrapped up in the lights and glamour of London and overlook other places to visit throughout England. But seriously... How can you not be drawn like a moth to the flame by that city? There's loads of history to be learned, pubs to drink in, incredible architecture to see, markets to shop in, and different cuisines to try. I had the same exact thoughts until a friend of mine suggested expanding my horizons and visiting other cities in the UK besides London. That's when I came across this little gem: the city of York.
York, which is located in the northern part of the country, is just a quick 2 hour train ride from London. This picturesque and historic city is full of fascinating stories and landmarks that date back over 800 years! Just one walk around the city's medieval walls is enough to fall in love with it. If you're traveling to York for the weekend, or even just for a day trip, use this travel guide to plan your trip and find out where to eat, sleep, and play on any budget!
Best Ways to Get to York from London:
Train: Approx. 2 hrs
Bus (such as the Megabus): Approx. 4-6 hrs
Drive: Approx. 3.5 hrs
My preferred method is the train because it's the fastest and most efficient way to get there. Plus, you're not responsible for driving or worrying about traffic to get there on time.
York is perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, families, groups of friends, history lovers, and cultural travel
The city of York might be petite in size, but it certainly packs a punch when it comes to the food scene. Within the historic city walls, there are tons of amazing places to relax from a day of walking around to grab a pint and some delicious food. The best part is that visitors can really find a wide range of dining options within any budget--including plenty of gluten free, vegetarian, or vegan options. Here are some of my favorites!
Budget:
Shambles Kitchen, 28 Shambles, York, YO1 7LX -- Very well known for their pulled pork and other tasty sandwiches
Cafe La Tazzina York, 12 Blossom Street, York, YO24 1AE -- Great place for breakfast
Los Moros, Shambles Market, York, YO1 7LA -- Incredible Northern African food in the heart of York
The Sea Catcher, 1B Clarence Street, York, YO31 7EL -- Perfect spot for a quick plate of fish and chips to go
Croque Monsieur, Multiple Locations -- Good for coffee and sandwiches on the go
The Fossgate Social, 25 Fossgate, York, YO1 9TA -- Ideal place to stop and take a break (and eat+drink) at any time of the day
Goji, 36 Goodramgate, York, YO1 7LF -- Best vegetarian and vegan restaurant in York with plenty of organic and fair trade options available
KREP, Silver St, Shambles Market, York, YO1 8RY -- Popular food truck near the Shambles that serves delicious crepes and galettes
Dough, 73 Bootham, York, YO30 7DQ -- Great for an Italian treat in the heart of York (think coffee, pizzas, calzones, bread, pasta, pastries, cakes, etc.)
Rodgers of York Tearooms, Monks Cross, York,YO32 9JR -- Hidden gem just outside of the city center where you can relax for tea and lunch
Also try: Tower Vue Cafe, Jenny's Fish & Chip Shop, The Village Deli, The York Roast Co., House of the Trembling Madness, Bamboo Thai Takeaway, or Penny's Bespoke Foodhouse
Moderate:
Betty's Tea Room, 6-8 St Helens Square, York, YO1 8QP (Multiple Locations) -- This place is a classic York institution. A trip to York isn't complete without a stop at Betty's. More info below under the "Things to Do" section!
Skosh, 98 Micklegate, York, YO1 6JX -- Creative and contemporary cuisine
Barbakan, 58 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL -- Authentic Polish food in the heart of York
Café Concerto, 21 High Petergate, York, YO1 7EN -- Good breakfast/lunch cafe for all types of diets
Pairings Wine Bar, 28 Castlegate, York, YO1 9RP -- Lovely wine bar where you can get delicious pairings of food + wine
Delrio's Restaurant, 10-12 Blossom Street, York, YO24 1AE -- Hidden gem and a cute, quirky Italian restaurant
Yak & Yeti Gurkha Restaurant, 63A Goodramgate, York, YO1 7LS -- Unique and authentic Nepalese cuisine for those wanting to try something different
Little Italy, 12 Goodramgate, York, YO1 7LQ -- Another quality Italian establishment that is a favorite with locals
The Rattle Owl, 104 Micklegate, York, YO1 6JX -- Popular place for lunch that includes a contemporary menu of European dishes
Khao San Road, 50-52 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TJ -- Excellent place if you're craving delicious Thai food
Source, 1 Castlegate, York, YO1 9RN -- Healthy "street food" with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and meat choices
Thompson's Fish Restaurant, Hazelbush Malton Road, York, YO32 9TW -- Popular choice for some fish and chips
Pavement Vaults, 2 Piccadilly, York, YO1 9NU -- Best known for their finger-licking BBQ dishes
El Gaucho, 48 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TJ -- Cozy Argentinian steakhouse with hearty portions in the middle of town
Ambiente Tapas, 31 Fossgate, York, YO1 9TA (Multiple Locations) -- Lively and stylish tapas bar that is great for groups, couples, or even parties
Also try: El Piano, Bicis y Mas, Drake's Fisheries, Masala Craft Fine Indian Kitchen + Bar, The Lime House, Loch Fyne, Rustique, or Lucky Days Cafe
Luxury:
The Park Restaurant, 4-5 St Peters Grove, York, North Yorkshire YO30 6AQ
Melton's, 7 Scarcroft Road, York, YO23 1ND
Oxo's Restaurant, The Mount Royale Hotel, York, YO24 1GU
Le Cochon Aveugle, 37 Walmgate, York, YO1 9TX
Hudson's, Station Rise, The Grand Hotel & Spa, York, YO1 6GD
Also try: The Blue Bicycle Restaurant or The Star Inn The City
Like I said earlier, York is an easy day trip from London, so you can definitely get away with just visiting for less than 24 hours. However, after seeing the city and what it has to offer, I've already been planning my return for an overnight stay.
The hotels around the city are just as breathtaking as the sights around them! The best part about accommodations in York is that everything is pretty budget friendly. I'm not joking! Some of these luxury hotels can go as low as $150 per night!! It's hard to say no to luxury at that price tag...
The Luxury Getaway
The Principal York, $$, Station Road, York, YO24 1AA
Images via The Principal York
Formerly known as the "The Royal York Hotel," this property seems to effortlessly exude elegance, style, and grace at every corner you turn. They have managed to incorporate the perfect hint of modern design to the decor, which makes you feel like you're in a palace built for the 21st Century traveler. It's also extremely affordable for a luxury hotel, with some rooms costing under $150 per night! I stumbled across this gem after meeting a lovely couple at lunch (at Betty's!) and they told me that it was their favorite place in all of York. This place is definitely high on my list for where I'd like to stay upon my return.
Also try: The Grand Hotel & Spa ($$$) or Mount Royale Hotel & Spa ($$)
The Budget Friendly Hotel
The Churchill Hotel, $, 65 Bootham, York, YO30 7DQ
Images via The Churchill
The Churchill is a wonderful budget friendly option for visitors coming to experience what York has to offer. The quirky hotel is situated in a stone mansion from 1827 and has all the modern luxuries and conveniences of today. Each suite is different from the next, but they each share a unique and eclectic aesthetic that appeals to people who love contemporary design.
Also try: Marmadukes Town House Hotel ($), Hotel du Vin York ($$) or Dean Court Hotel ($)
The Trendy Boutique Hotel
The Parisi Hotel, $$, 51 St. Denys Road, York, YO1 9QD
Images via The Parisi Hotel
This cozy, colorful boutique hotel is right in the heart of the city, making it perfect for people who want to have easy access to walking anywhere in York. The fully restored Victorian-era house has 11 quaint rooms that are each have their own personalities. Guests can enjoy time in the gardens overlooking the St. Deny's Church, or curl up to a book in the library downstairs.
Also try: Hotel Indigo York ($)
The Elegant Country House
Grays Court Hotel, $$$, Chapter House St, York, YO1 7JH
Images via Grays Court Hotel
If you've ever wondered what it would feel like to live in an English cottage circa the 11th century, then Grays Court Hotel is for you. This idyllic hotel could be a charming getaway for couples or families looking to get a taste of the English life without moving across the pond. Each suite comes with antique furnishings and modern, convenient touches to make your stay the most comfortable. The garden, which boasts an incredible view of the York Minster, is a lovely place to relax with tea.
Also try: Middlethorpe Hall & Spa ($$)
15 Things to Do in York
1. Meander through The Shambles and the Shambles Market.
Rumor has it that The Shambles was the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. I can't officially confirm this, but one look at the historic street and you'll totally see how it's entirely possible. I highly recommend seeing it with this WORD TO THE WISE: Due to the small space constraints, it gets really crowded really fast. To avoid the crowds, go very early in the morning or later in the afternoon when things are closing up.
The Shambles Market is a great place to stop by too! Think of it as an eclectic farmer's market. PS: (This came as a bit of a culture shock to me being from NYC...) When the shops say they are closing at 5pm, they mean it. Like the doors are practically shut at 4:45pm. This might be a good or bad thing depending on what you're looking for. I liked it because at 5pm the streets were basically deserted, which made for some better photos. But on the flip side, I also couldn't shop in some of the stores I really wanted to.
2. Climb up to the top of the York Minster to see the spectacular view.
You'll need a ticket to get up to the top...and you have to walk single file line up the winding stairs...but it's totally worth it. The view from the top of the Minster is spectacular--especially on a clear day.
3. Walk around the city's historic, medieval walls.
The city of York, like many other medieval cities, was originally surrounded by a large wall to protect the kingdom. Today, the walls serve as a great way to walk around the city's perimeter and take in the views.
4. Stop in at an English Tea Room, like Betty's.
Betty's is an absolute must when you're coming to York. Betty's was founded in 1919 by a young Swiss baker and confectioner who came to England in hopes of expanding his skills. He accidentally boarded the wrong train, ended up in Yorkshire, and the rest is history. He opened up his first tea room in the region and called it Betty's. To this day, no one knows why. The identity of Betty is still a complete mystery, which kinda makes the story more interesting!
Think of Betty's Tea Room as a step back in time to the 1930s and '40s where you're surrounded by the social elite in a room full of art deco luxury. Waitresses, dressed fully in white, would come to your table pushing sterling silver carts full of fancy treats and delicious goodies to serve with your warm cup of tea or glass of crisp champagne... That is basically what you still get when you come to Betty's. It's as if they've managed to keep the ambience frozen in time. Prices are a little steep and there's almost always a line, but it's worth it for the unique atmosphere of being somewhere with so much history behind it.
5. Go on a ghost tour.
York is said to be one of the most haunted cities in the UK, so naturally there are tons of ghost tours and walks that you can join to learn about the history of the city's hauntings.
6. Take a photo in front of the famous Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate sign.
As silly as that might sound, it's the actual name of York's shortest street. Allegedly, the original meaning was "What a street!" but either way, makes for a good photo opp!
7. Learn about the history of chocolate at York's Chocolate Story.
I had no idea that my beloved Kit-Kats were brought to us by famous chocolateers of York. If you're a chocolate fan or even just a foodie who likes to learn new things, I definitely recommend stopping by this place during your visit.
8. Shop at local places and boutiques, like the Minster Gate Bookshop.
I'm a sucker for old bookshops and this one really satisfied my craving. Besides the quaint bookstores around the city, there are also plenty of other shops, boutiques, and even designer outlets for people to explore if you're looking for some retail therapy.
9. Visit museums.
It's hard to choose just one when there are so many wonderful ones like the National Railway Museum (where I also recommend having tea in the vintage train carriage), The Fairfax House, The York Dungeon, The York Castle Museum, or Merchant Adventurers' Hall.
10. Relax in the Yorkshire Museum Gardens.
If you need a little break from the city life, consider heading to these gardens for a little afternoon picnic or relaxing time. It is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city that you can't miss.
11. Do a double decker bus tour to see everything at once.
Confession time: I love double decker bus tours. I absolutely love them. What better way is there to get around the city quickly, understand your surroundings, and note where you want to go back and explore deeper? It's a shameless touristy thing that I'll admit I love.
12. Take a river cruise to see the city by water.
Think of the Yorkboat as the double decker bus on water. It's a great way to take a load off your feet after walking around all day. You can also walk along the river via the city's bridges to get a different perspective during your visit.
13. Explore the streets and get lost.
This is probably one of the best things to do in York (and easiest) because the streets are all pedestrian friendly and you're bound to see something charming around every corner. You really don't need a car at all to get around either. If you're coming in from the train station, just head straight into town and walk from street to street. It's the best way to stumble upon new places and corners you probably wouldn't have seen.
14. See the view from Clifford's Tower.
The tower is basically the last thing standing from what used to be an incredible castle of York. You can get some sick panoramic views when you head to the top!
15. Grab a pint of beer by the river or in a historic pub.
Orrrr maybe even do a pub crawl...? It's not a bad idea when the city is full of so many unique pubs! It can be the perfect way to end a long day of exploring. Always remember to drink responsibly though :)
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO York? WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO EAT, PLACES TO STAY, OR THINGS TO DO? COMMENT BELOW WITH MORE RECOMMENDATIONS!
Thank you to Visit York for providing me with a day pass to the city's attractions. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai
Have you ever felt like you've time traveled into another destination from the past? This luxury hotel in the heart of Chiang Mai will do just that. The Dhara Dhevi is a truly special experience for people looking for something authentic and unique while visiting Chiang Mai. Step into this world of the 13th century Kingdom of Lanna and get ready to be treated like royalty!
Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai: A Magical Step Back in Time to the Lanna Kingdom
August 1997:
The time I realized I wanted to time travel thanks to Marty McFly, Doc Brown, and a flying DeLorean.
February 2017:
The time I think I *actually* time traveled back into the 13th century kingdom of Lanna at the Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai.
Ok, so I didn’t actually hop inside the DeLorean, throw on the flux capacitor to generate 1.21 gigawatts, and floor it to 88mph to get here; but it sure felt like I did!
From the moment our car pulled up to the front gates of Dhara Dhevi in Chiang Mai, all it took was one look up the long, stone driveway through the tall, wooden gates for my mouth to drop in awe. For a girl who normally can’t stop talking, I found myself absolutely speechless for the first time while staring up at the abundance of beauty that was in front of me. I kept asking Jay to pinch me to see if what was in front of us was actually real.
Had we just stepped back in time to the Lanna Kingdom of the 13th century, or was this just one of the most remarkable architectural properties we’d ever seen?
What exactly is the Lanna Kingdom?
Unless you’re a Thai or Asian history buff, you’re probably wondering, “What the hell is the Lanna Kingdom??” Full disclosure: I had NO idea what it was until I actually came to this property either...
Before Thailand was the country that we know it to be today, it used to be quite different in terms of culture and size. Two main cultures—the Siamese and the Lanna—dominated the region for centuries. The Lanna had hold in the northern region, and the Siamese had hold in the southern. The two kingdoms eventually unified after the kingdom of Lanna was faced with repeated invasions and wars and was forced to turn to the kingdom of Siam for aide. They merged together to form what we now know as Thailand!
Despite this historic merging of cultures, the northern part of Thailand has still managed to maintain its identity in a number of ways—which is probably why you’ll often times hear Chiang Mai being referred to as “Thailand’s Culture Capital.” The food is different (HELLO, DANGEROUSLY SPICY), the architecture is different, and even some of the language can be different. For those of you who live in the US, it’s similar to comparing the culture and lifestyles of a place like Philadelphia to a place like New Orleans.
Bravo to you for finishing that mini history lesson of the day on Thailand!
Arriving at The Palace via Time Travel...Maybe
So now that you know that there was a Lanna Kingdom, let’s get back to the subject of time travel...
I’m not joking when I say that you are literally transported back in time from the minute your car turns onto the property grounds. As you enter the hotel, you cross over a noisy, rickety bridge that makes a sound as if your car might break the wood beams that are holding the bridge together. We learned that this was actually customary in palaces and kingdoms of the time period because the noisy sound of the bridge would essentially work as an alarm system for the guards who were standing watch to let them know that someone was arriving. They even have an actual watchtower near the entrance that is a replica of what would have been used!
See what I mean? You haven’t even stepped foot out of your car and they are already coming at you with the history lessons...
A Place Where No Detail Goes Left Unnoticed
As you drive up the authentic stone driveway that leads to the main building on the exotic 60-acre estate, you’re instantly surrounded by some of the most spectacular architectural designs and features that you might have seen around a traditional 13th century Lanna Kingdom. You have everything from grand marble entrances to intricately decorated doorways and multi-tiered rooftops. You’ll see architectural inspiration from Laos, Myanmar, China, and of course traditional Lanna style, just to name a few.
The only thing that we were able to effectively express after our mouths had been wide open for about 15 minutes was just how incredible every tiny attention to detail was. From the gilded dragons to the carved sculptures, from the exotic horticulture to the traditional rice paddies; every single nook and cranny of this resort seemed to have a purpose and meaning behind it. No detail was left unnoticed. It’s hard to not feel like you’re royalty by staying somewhere that pays this much attention and care to the guest’s experience.
After briefly recovering from our sensory overload (and pinching ourselves saying, “YES, this is real life.”), we sipped down our tasty welcome drinks and cooled down with a refreshing washcloth that the concierge provided. The staff graciously gave us some information about what we can expect to see, eat, and do throughout our stay, and sent us with our butler to our suite via golf cart (BTW I just love when hotels do this!). Needless to say, we were ready to start exploring the property!
Choosing Your Style of Accommodation: Traditional Lanna vs. Colonial Luxury
The designers and engineers of Dhara Dhevi have essentially created a miniature version of a traditional Lanna-style village among the 60 acres of lush, tropical land. When I say that you actually never have to leave the property during your stay, I mean it (we really didn’t...). There are houses, villas, apartment residences, suites, and even penthouses secretly tucked away all around the grand estate. Some rooms come equipped with their own private pools, terraces, or even additional living spaces and kitchens. Keeping similar to the rest of the hotel aesthetic, not one single detail was missed.
Among the 123 spacious accommodations throughout the property, you have two distinct styles of rooms, villas, and suites. There are the more traditional Lanna-style buildings that are built from teak wood and follow a common Northern Thai design aesthetic, and then there are the colonial style residences that adhere to a more modern style of luxury (which is where we stayed). I can assure you though; you really can’t go wrong with either choice.
Our room was in the Colonial Wing of the hotel, which I thought was a fun experience since it’s the most modern and “urban” style of accommodations that the resort has to offer (perfect for The CITY Sidewalks). Even though it’s not the traditional Lanna-style of the other villas and houses, you still get a really authentic experience that transports you to a different era, which is exactly what we were looking for. The style of the decor, architecture of the buildings, and even the intricate carvings of the wood details all pulled together to create this truly unique feeling of being lost in a colonial village of another time in Asia.
In addition to the traditional bedroom/bathroom setup you typically see in luxury hotels, our suite also came with an airy living room (with very high ceilings!), a powder room, and an outdoor terrace that overlooked a charming pond and the grounds of the Colonial Wing. It was a dreamy place to kick back and watch the sunset! PS—I highly recommend taking a dip in the bathtub in these suites. It was such a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day of exploring the grounds! Plus, they give you all the bathtub toiletries, so you really don’t have an excuse not to do it...
Although we didn’t stay in the traditional Lanna-style villas or houses, we were lucky enough to get a quick peek inside one of them to see what they offer. These villas, houses, and suites on the other end of the resort are truly magnificent. Each one is incredibly spacious and follows a very unique design aesthetic that is true to the time period and culture of the old Lanna Kingdom. Some of the villas even come with their own swimming pools (sometimes more than just one), outdoor showers, gardens, kitchens, family rooms, dining rooms, and terraces. They are truly fit for royalty!
How to Spend Your Time Here
It’s time for some honest truth here... We budgeted 4 nights total in Chiang Mai, 2 of which were spent here at Dhara Dhevi. We left Chiang Mai feeling like we hadn’t even scratched the surface of things to do and explore in the actual city. Want to know why? We literally never left Dhara Dhevi on the days that we spent here. I’m serious.
This hotel really has SO MANY things that you can do, eat, explore, and experience that you actually never have to leave—which is exactly what I’d recommend doing. Soak in everything that this resort has to offer because it is truly a once in a lifetime experience that will leave you wanting more.
So what exactly are these world-class services and amenities that are available? Here are some of my favorites:
Rent a Bike and Explore
This was by far one of my favorite things to do at Dhara Dhevi! You can rent a bike at the fitness center for the day so you have a quick and easy way to get around the property. Jay and I did this for one day and it was really fun to weave around the winding paths of the grounds to explore everything that the hotel had to offer. It’s hard not to spend all day just riding around on the bikes to admire the architectural beauties of the hotel. I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s truly breathtaking.
Spend Time at the Spa
I say “spend time at the spa” because even if you don’t have an appointment for a treatment, you should still come to see it. The spa at Dhara Dhevi is world renowned for its services and treatments. Not only do they specialize in various forms of holistic healings and relaxation therapies, but they also boast one of the most spectacular buildings on the entire property.
Just one look at the palatial center (which is over 3000 square meters) and its impeccably designed moldings and embellishments will leave you speechless. The entire building took over 3.5 years to complete! So as I was saying... By all means, sign up to get a treatment if you can. But if you can’t, don’t miss stopping by to admire this architectural marvel.
Take a Cooking Class
If you’re interested in learning how to cook some authentic Thai cuisine, make sure to sign up for the cooking lessons that they offer on site! This was something we didn’t have time for, but hope to do upon our return.
Visit the Rice Paddies
Another area of the resort that you must come to have a look. The rice paddies are a graceful nod to the old, traditional rice farming that would have been done in a community or village like the one they’ve recreated. They even offer activities for kids and families so you can come and plant some rice during your stay!
Sign Up for Free Activities – Like Morning Yoga
There are tons of daily activities always happening right on the resort (another excuse to never leave), and one of my favorites was morning yoga just above the fitness center. You can stop at the concierge to see what kinds of things they have planned during your stay!
See the Dance Performance at Le Grand Lanna Restaurant
Even if you don’t eat on site, you absolutely cannot miss the nightly dance performances at Le Grand Lanna. It is a really special part of experiencing Thai culture and I highly recommend going at least once. We went and had a cocktail at the bar while we enjoyed the show!
Relax by the Pool – ALL the Pools
Although some villas and suites come with their own private pools or spas, there are also two marvelous pools for all guests to enjoy right in the heart of the property. I recommend visiting both of them, as they each offer different views and experiences. I can’t even say I have a favorite because they are both so unique...
Watch the Sunrise and Sunset
Something truly magical happens at dawn and dusk here at Dhara Dhevi. It’s almost as if the resort, the sun, and the skies have a prearranged agreement to just make everything look even more stunning than it already is. I’m telling you, this property absolutely GLOWS at sunrise and sunset. The rooftops stand out against the warm sky backdrop, and the lights around the buildings seem to actually sparkle. It’s also the best time for photos in my opinion! So cozy up on your balcony or terrace—or maybe even get reservations at one of the restaurants on site—and enjoy the sunrise and sunset. They do not disappoint!
Other Notable Mentions:
Visit the extensive library below the main building
Have a cocktail at the Horn Bar adjacent to the lobby
Visit the shops at the Kad Dhara (an open-air shopping village)
See the animals around the property like the ponies and water buffalo
Visit the workout facilities or sign up for a class, like Thai Boxing
Have your kids spend the day at the on-site Kid’s Club and/or visit the arts and crafts village with them
Shop antiques at the shops just beneath the lobby and near the library
Hire a car for the day to take you in/out of town
Ask the concierge about any special happenings or tours that they can arrange
Eat, Eat, Eat... And Then Eat Some More
Normally, I’d include the cuisine options of a hotel under the “How to Spend Your Time Here” section above. However, I think that this deserves it’s own section because if Dhara Dhevi did one thing right during our stay, it was the food. (Let’s be real though... They did a lot of things right.)
The cuisine choices at Dhara Dhevi will not disappoint even the pickiest of eaters. There are more than half a dozen food options that you can choose from, and even a few different bars to have a drink or appetizer!
Akaligo (International): This is where they serve the breakfast and brunch menus. We were overwhelmed by how many tasty things were available for us to indulge. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever seen such an incredible brunch spread in my life—and I live in the city that loves to brunch! They have your traditional eggs, meats, cheeses, pastries, etc., but they also have Chinese and Japanese style breakfast, a fresh squeezed juice station, a ramen station, salads, pastas, specialty meats, and so much more! Rest assured, you will not have a problem finding something to eat at breakfast. They even do Sunday Jazz Brunch if you’re into having a little “vibes” on the side of your meal.
Farang Ses (French): AKA the single best French meal I’ve ever had in my life. How is that possible when I’m in Thailand? I don’t know, but I’m not complaining about it. If you pick one place to splurge a little while you’re at Dhara Dhevi, I would 100% recommend coming here. Every dish we had was worthy of licking the plate afterwards. It was that good. PS: The restaurant's building and interior decor is not one to miss either!
Le Grand Lanna (Thai): You’re in Thailand, which means you need to eat authentic Thai food. At Le Grand Lanna, you can try both Classic and Northern Thai dishes. Be aware that Northern Thai dishes are much, much spicier than most westerners are used to. Just a word to the wise! Make sure to go here in the evenings so you can catch the traditional Thai dance performance as well! It's really beautiful!
Fujian (Chinese): If you’re craving some Cantonese or Contemporary Chinese food, this is your place. It’s located within the Kad Dhara Shopping Village, so you can even do a little shopping if you have time!
Allegro (Italian): This place is great for foodies looking to indulge in a hearty meal in a lively atmosphere. Allegro’s traditional Italian cuisine is a perfect option for families or larger parties who want to share classic, rustic dishes without having to travel into the downtown area.
Dhara Dhevi Cake Shop (Victorian-Style Tea Salon): Your dining and culinary experience on site is absolutely incomplete without a stop at the Dhara Dhevi Cake Shop. The sweet treats and decadent dishes at the Cake Shop will make you believe in “second stomachs for dessert.” You can have your treats at the shop, or take them to go if you want to indulge back in the room. If you have a major sweet tooth like I do, make sure to check out when they have the weekend dessert buffet set up.
Other Dining Options: In addition to all these incredible restaurant choices, the resort offers guests the option for private dining services or parties. Obviously, you can have your choice of standard room service, but you can also pack a picnic to eat somewhere around the hotel, have an in-villa barbecue prepared, enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea, or even arrange a private (candlelit?) dinner in your suite or villa.
Bars and Pool Service: Make sure to check out the trendy Horn Bar, which is located in the lobby adjacent to the reception. I’d also recommend lounging by both of the main pools and ordering poolside service. Like I said before, be aware that Northern Thai food is much spicier than most western cultures are accustomed to. We felt so bad that we tried a dish by the pool and had to request that they make another one with absolutely no spice because it was too rough to handle!
Good to Know Information
When you’re planning your trip to Chiang Mai, I would factor in the time you’ll want to spend on the grounds at Dhara Dhevi separately from the time you’ll want to spend in the downtown area of Chiang Mai. You can totally do both; but I promise, once you experience the world-class services and amenities that Dhara Dhevi has to offer, you’re going to wish you had just experienced the resort on its own and never left.
The resort isn’t really a single’s scene and is best for couples, small groups, or families. It’s an ideal place for a relaxing, secluded getaway in the heart of Chiang Mai.
It’s conveniently located just about a 15-minute drive from the main Chiang Mai airport, which you can reserve pickups to and from.
You can easily hire a car to head into town, use the hotel's shuttle service, or use a ride share app. The city center of Chiang Mai is just about 10 minutes away, but it’s hard to leave Dhara Dhevi with all it has to offer!
You receive a custom magazine with all the hotel happenings when you arrive in your room. You can refer to this for special things going on, or just head to the concierge for more details.
The butler service can arrange for golf carts to take you around the property if needed, but we preferred getting around by bike!
Depending on the time of year you come, it might be a good idea to pack some mosquito repellant. This is a tropical area after all!
As I said earlier, we only scheduled 4 days in our 2-week itinerary to spend in Chiang Mai (which was clearly not enough), and I wish we would have had scheduled a full week just to spend at Dhara Dhevi. This was, without at doubt, one of the most breathtaking, awe-inspiring, and over-the-top hotels I’ve ever seen in my life. You are never short of an abundance of eye candy when coming here!
As sad as we were to leave, we now know that this destination (and hotel) holds a special place in our hearts. We very much look forward to coming back for a quiet, romantic week to spend at Dhara Dhevi sometime in the future. I highly recommend this all-encompassing resort experience when you visit Thailand!
Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai
51/4 Chiang Mai - Sankampaeng Road
Chiang Mai, Thailand
For more information about this hotel, please click the link below
Thank you to Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you.All opinions are my own.
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Where to Stay in Chiang Mai: 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
Nestled right in the heart of Thailand's cultural capital is the urban oasis of 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai. If you're researching where to stay in Chiang Mai, you might want to consider this luxury boutique hotel, which has been named one of Travel and Leisure's Top 100 Hotels in the World. Discover where you can find the best Thai spa treatments, Thai cooking classes, and so much more right here in this luxury getaway!
137 Pillars House: An Urban Oasis in the Heart of Chiang Mai
After years of watching what seemed to be like everyone around me jet off to Thailand and explore the ancient country, I was officially sick of the FOMO this year and decided to travel there to see it for myself. On the (long) list of places I wanted to see was Thailand's cultural capital in the North: Chiang Mai.
The city of Chiang Mai, whose history can be traced back to over 700 years ago, provides a cultural look into the past juxtaposed with a modern look into the future. It's a beautiful city where travelers can see these two elements cohabitate harmoniously. To give a visual example that you can imagine, there are areas where you basically have the ancient ruins of the old walled city right next to an incredibly chic row of trendy coffee shops and restaurants. It is the perfect mix of old and new!
During our 4-day stay in Chiang Mai (which proved to not even be nearly enough time as we had wished to have), we wanted to get a taste of both "the old" and "the new." I love a really well-designed boutique hotel just as much as the next traveler, so when I came across 137 Pillars House in the heart of Chiang Mai, I knew this would be the perfect home for a few nights. It just exuded the utmost elegance, modern luxury, and this unique feeling of comfort that you can only find in a few places around the world.
A Location With a Story as Beautiful as Its Architecture
It's worth noting that the city of Chiang Mai, which was once its own kingdom, is full of its very own unique culture and history (hence why people sometimes refer to it as the cultural capital of Thailand). The property and plot of land in which 137 Pillars House stands is no exception to that either.
The main bungalow-style house (and focal point of the property) was once the Northern Headquarters of the Borneo Trading Company. The Borneo House, which was constructed from teak wood, was built over 125 years ago by the son of Anna Leonowens. Leonowens was the British tutor of the King of Siam who inspired the popular book "Anna and the King." At the time of construction, it was standard in Lanna style Thai houses to show their wealth and status by having as many pillars on your home as possible. The Borneo House had exactly 137 pillars, which clearly showed the high status of the person who built it.
After some time, the Borneo House was purchased by a family in 2002 who fell in love with the location, beauty, and integrity of the architecture of this home. An incredible team of architects and designers worked together to rebuild and restore the old Borneo House into the gorgeous property that we see today. While keeping as true to the Lanna style as possible, they've included some modern touches that are sure to make all guests feel welcome and at home. They kept the name original--137 Pillars House--since that was one of the features that made the home unique in the first place!
Arriving at the Resort: Taking Personal Service to the Next Level
You know how they say you only have one chance to make a first impression? I'm pretty sure that the executive staff at 137 Pillars House kept this in mind when they put together their plan of action for how to welcome and greet their guests. Let me just say that I've never had the kind of first-class service that I experienced here at 137 Pillars House anywhere else in the world. Let me give you the rundown of how it all happened...
1. The Transfer Service
We were greeted at our previous hotel by a member of the 137 Pillars staff, who transferred us to the new hotel in a luxury vehicle that had Wi-Fi, personal TVs, magazines, cool towels, and more. It basically made it impossible for me to enjoy any other transfer service without these amenities from there on out.
Upon arriving at the hotel, which was tucked away in a local neighborhood just outside of the walls of the Old City, we were graciously welcomed by the concierge and reception staff with chilled towels to cool off and a refreshing beverage to sip on the side. We checked in, got a quick tour of the property, and then were escorted to our impeccable Rajah Brooke Suite.
2. The World's Greatest Butler Service
Waiting for us at our suite was our wonderful butler, Pui. As if I thought I wasn't in love with the property already, this woman and her expertise of the city and hotel really took our experience to a whole new level. Where most butlers or concierge members would kindly let you know to ring them if you needed any assistance, Pui actually took the time to stay and speak with us to share bits of information about the neighborhood to really make sure we felt comfortable and at home.
She gave us a small pocket map of the area and highlighted the places that she suggested would help us make the most of our time. It was basically like getting our own personal travel agent on site! She even let us know that we could text her for other tips (or bookings/reservations) at any time, which she was super quick to respond to. I mean, this woman was on top of her game.
3. The Custom Pillows and Fragrances
Just when we thought she had gone above and beyond, she mentioned that all guests at 137 Pillars House receive their own custom choices of pillows and toiletries. This was really my favorite part... She pulled out a mini box of tiny pillows that you could feel and touch to see which ones were best for your sleep style. OH MY GOODNESS--WHY ISN'T EVERY LUXURY HOTEL DOING THIS?! Gone are the days of sleeping with pillows that are too thick or too thin! You can basically be like Goldilocks here and choose the one that is juuuustt right for you. She also had a set of fragrances for the toiletries, which you could choose from as well! We loved the Thai Jasmine & Mint :) Definitely recommend it.
When History Meets Modern Luxury
Something beautiful tends to happen when you flawlessly combine antique architecture and design with modern, luxurious details and finishings. The designers and architects of 137 Pillars House have really gone above and beyond with the decor and ambiance of this property to make you feel like you are right at home--or at least in a home that you wish was yours.
If there is a such thing in design and decor as "eclectic style-meets-modern luxury-meets-contemporary elegance," then that is this property. Seriously, every nook and cranny of this place is so picturesque, it will make you never want to leave! The attention to detail is just remarkable! I want whoever designed it to come to my house next...
The hotel's 30 suites are all bright, colorful, and spacious; some are even eqipped with their own private pools or outdoor showers! The clawfoot bathtub (just adjacent to the changing room) was a beautiful centerpiece of the bathroom, and the balcony made for a great place to kick back and relax. We particularly loved how plush and comfortable the bed was--especially with our personalized pillows that we chose!
How to Spend Your Time Here
I felt so conflicted when I arrived at 137 Pillars House because I obviously wanted to explore the city of Chiang Mai since I had never been before (and it was just steps outside the front door), but the hotel had so many amenities and services that it is so easy to just stay home in this urban oasis and spend your entire vacation on the property! What's a girl to do?!
However, if you find yourself at 137 Pillars House, I definitely recommend these things:
Sign Up for a Spa Treatment
If you're gearing up for your first trip to Thailand (or you've already been and you're returning), you've probably heard from all your friends that you "absolutely must get a Thai massage when you're there." I can't even count how many times I had heard that...
After the 24-hour trip from New York to Thailand, Jay and I figured we deserved a little pampering after that long haul travel. We signed up for the 2-hour couples massage, which had a combination of Thai and Swedish methods if I remember correctly, and included various essential oils and organic products. WOW, did we pick the right place to indulge! I just feel bad because I was so relaxed I fell asleep halfway through it! I guess I'll just have to go back to do it again...
Take a Thai Cooking Class
When in Thailand, learn to cook as the Thai people do! This is actually one activity that I'm so sad we didn't have time to do, but will definitely be doing when we return. The 137 Pillars House Thai Cooking Class comes with a few different menu options that you can choose from when you sign up. Guests can opt to also take a trip to the local market with the chef to see where locals actually get their ingredients! Once you have your ingredients, you head back to the hotel where you learn how to cook these authentic Thai meals. I'm very much looking forward to doing this when we return.
Relax by the Pool and Garden
It gets pretty hot in Thailand, so having a great pool you can dip in to cool off is a necessity at any Thai hotel. The live wall near the infinity pool of 137 Pillars House is certainly a jaw dropping focal point that will entice you to slide into one of the canopied chaise lounges or private cabanas for a little R&R. The pool side food and drink service is not one to miss either!
Drink and Dine On Site
If there's one thing I can promise you about staying at 137 Pillars House it's that you will not leave hungry. The food here is to die for; it's nearly impossible not to indulge. And even though I always like to go out to eat when I'm in a new city, the food was so good here that we kept coming back for more.
There are 2 main restaurants on site: The Dining Room and Palette. The Dining Room offers more traditional Thai and Lanna dishes, while Palette offers a more western-style menu of farm to kitchen dishes. Since we can get western food just about any time we want to back home in New York, we opted for the The Dining Room for our meals.
Once you're done with dinner, hop over to the hotel's uber chic cocktail lounge Jack Bain's Bar. It's another one of those jaw dropping type of rooms in the hotel that just makes you never want to leave. Plus the cocktails are awesome.
PS: YOU CANNOT LEAVE WITHOUT TRYING THE MANGO STICKY RICE DESSERT. Thank me later... It was literally the best we had in Thailand.
Other Notable Mentions:
Take advantage of the breakfast buffet in the morning! It is exquisite and offers plenty of options for all dietary styles. There are even tons of freshly squeezed juices and fruits if having a big breakfast isn't your thing.
Visit the on site museum that tells more about the history and story of the property.
Walk through the property and garden areas -- lots of tropical and exotic horticulture right outside your room!
Have Afternoon Tea in the gardens or the Parlor of the Borneo House.
Hit the gym in the morning to get your day started with a little exercise.
Sign up for a private tour/excursion in Chiang Mai, which can be organized with your butler or the concierge.
Explore the shops, cafes, and galleries nearby the hotel. My personal favorite is Woo Cafe!
Take a walk into the Old City, which is just about 10 minutes from the hotel. The Night Bazaar is another popular stop for travelers, which I definitely recommend at least once just for the experience.
Good to Know Information
If you want to do any of the activities on site, like cooking class or a spa treatment, I would recommend booking as far in advance as you can so the spots don't fill up. The resort only has 30 suites afterall, and they like to keep experiences cozy and intimate.
Book your transfer to/from the hotel with your concierge. You'll want to experience that 5-star greeting, so make sure to arrange that as soon as you can!
Utilize your butler and concierge to make the most of your time! The staff at 137 Pillars House was so excellent and helpful. We wouldn't have had as good of a time if it weren't for them!
The hotel is perfectly located and walking distance to the Old City, but it can definitely get hot and sweaty on some days, so I recommend taking a water bottle with you when you head out.
If you're traveling outside of Chiang Mai, check out their new property 137 Pillars Suites & Residences in Bangkok, which just opened in Spring 2017!
Our stay at 137 Pillars House really made our entire experience in the downtown area of Chiang Mai unforgettable. Like I said earlier, I don't think that 4 days was even close to enough time in Chiang Mai as we had wanted to have! This city really has something special to it and I'm itching to get back and explore more.
I'm definitely looking forward to returning here when we come back to Chiang Mai--and also seeing their new 137 Pillars property in Bangkok! If it's anything like our experience in the cultural capital, I know it will be one for the books!
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
2 Soi 1, Nawatgate Road,
Tambon Watgate,
Muang Chiang Mai
50000 Thailand
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOTEL, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW
Thank you to 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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3 Self-Guided Walking Tours of Savannah
The best way to explore the streets of Savannah is by foot. Use these 3 self-guided walking tours of Savannah to create your own adventures around the city based on what you're looking for! Use these guides to find places to eat, where to take photos, and where to see the historical sites of Savannah.
3 Self-Guided Walking Tours of Savannah
I'm a city girl through and through. That means I innately hate driving, the inconvenience of having to go somewhere where I can't just walk, and the general idea of something that I need not being accessible to get to. Because of these things, I'm always very picky with where I want to travel. Cities that prove themselves to be extremely accessible and easy to get around automatically get bonus points in my book.
Luckily, Savannah is one of the most convenient and easiest cities to navigate that I've ever been to. Here's why... Have you ever been to New York? It's a grid. Guess what's also a grid? Savannah. Yes! Sign me up!
If you're heading to Savannah, the best way to explore it will be on foot. It will give you the chance to go as slow or as fast as you'd like and see as little or as much as you want during your stay. If you don't mind spending a little money, you can definitely sign up for a guided tour with a professional (best for people who want to learn the history and just follow along with a group); OR you can just take the adventurous route and explore on your own (my preferred method)! Below are 3 examples of walking routes that you can take around Savannah depending on what you're looking for.
Good to Know Information Before Heading to Savannah
Check out our full Savannah City Guide so you can get better acquainted with where to eat, sleep, and play on any budget!
Wear comfortable shoes when you're exploring Savannah because you could easily spend an entire day outside walking around.
Come with an empty stomach because the food in Savannah is to die for! I'd recommend having a full day out where you can eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner all during your walking tour. You won't have any problems finding great restaurants with the routes provided in this post.
The walking tours below are just suggested routes to start with, but I also recommend exploring on side streets and charming roads that look appealing to you! Savannah is so easy to get around so it's definitely easy to just zig zag around from street to street (that's pretty much what I did during my stay).
1. Savannah Squares Walking Tour
Takes you around each of the squares of Savannah with the route ending at Forsyth Park
Before visiting Savannah, a friend was telling me I absolutely had to check out all of the "squares" around the downtown area. I have to admit... I was a little bit confused until I actually got to see them and appreciate them for myself.
Savannah currently has 22 historic squares that you can see and enjoy when you visit. Each square has its own name and look, with most of them having a unique statue, sculpture, or structure as the focal point in the center. They are all lovely in their own right (and I recommend seeing all of them), but my personal favorites are Chippewa (made famous by Forrest Gump), Lafayette, Greene, Madison, and Johnson.
2. Savannah Shopping Walking Tour
Takes you through a good shopping route to explore Savannah's local boutiques and shops
There are so many incredible places to shop around Savannah that are unique to the city. This route takes you through the City Market, Broughton Street, and down Bull Street with the occasional zigzag here and there.
Make sure to stop by The Paris Market, Savannah Bee Company, Chocolat by Adam Turoni, E. Shaver Booksellers (as well as their adjacent tea shop), One Fish Two Fish, Shop SCAD (where you can shop local SCAD student's artwork), as well as tons of shops along Bull Street and Whitaker Street. There are seriously so many amazing shops and boutiques that you can make an entire afternoon of just stopping in different places.
3. Forsyth Park and Historic Streets Walking Route
Takes you through Forsyth Park and parts of the Historic District of Downtown Savannah
A visit to Savannah is just not complete without a visit to Forsyth Park. The park, which is especially gorgeous at sunrise and sunset, is known for the iconic fountain shot that you'll see off the entrance of Bull and Gaston. You can walk through the park, sit down for a picnic, visit the rose gardens, play some tennis, or attend concerts and other events that happen from time to time around the park area.
After spending some time in the park, stick around the area to roam the downtown Historic District so you can marvel at all of the gorgeous homes and mansions. All of the tree lined streets with Spanish Moss on them are simply breathtaking. This route will take you around some of my favorite areas, but you should also follow your adventurous instincts and explore the streets that excite you!
What are some other walking routes or areas you would recommend in Savannah? Comment below with some more must-see places!
If you're exploring Savannah, try out these walking tours and let me know what you think!
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Caribbean Island Guide: How to Choose the Right Island For Your Vacation
With over 25 different Caribbean Islands to choose from, how do you know which one is best for you? Use this Caribbean Island Guide to help you decide where to go based on your style, travel schedule, and budget.
Caribbean Island Guide: How to Choose the Right Caribbean Island For Your Vacation
Millions of beach-ready tourists flock to the sunny islands of the Caribbean every year; but with so many places to choose from, how do you know which one is best for you?
Whether you're an adventure seeker looking to hike the mountains and dive with the stingrays, or you're researching where you can indulge and relax near the beach on some luxury Caribbean vacations, this Caribbean Island Guide will help you decide where to go based on your style, travel schedule, and budget. Browse the islands below, grab your sunnies and bathing suit, and get ready to book your ticket!
1. Antigua
Antigua (and Barbuda) is the ideal place for people who can’t stay in one spot the whole time. You’ll have the chance to go beach hopping and island hopping every day if you visit this yachting destination. There are also lots of options for accommodations and activities for any budget.
Best For: Beach Lovers, Sailors & Boating, Families, and Couples
Accessibility from US and Canada: Easy to get to with daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $$$
2. Aruba
If your ideal vacation involves lounging around the beach 24/7, this is your destination. Aruba’s beaches are among the world's finest with crystal clear waters and white sand along the coastline.
Best For: Beach Lovers, Affordable Travel, Couples, Families, and Watersports
Accessibility from US and Canada: Easy to get to with daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $
3. Bahamas
Probably one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean for family travel. Besides the popular Paradise Island (home to the Atlantis Resort), there are actually a ton of other hidden gems where visitors can experience diving, quiet beaches, and luxury villas.
Best For: Families, Affordable Travel, and Diving
Accessibility from US and Canada: Extremely easy to get to with frequent, daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $$
4. Barbados
The island of Barbados is perfect for people who are looking to explore outdoor activities at a lower cost than some of its neighboring islands. Some of the beaches offer perfect waves for surfing or windsurfing. Golfers can also come and indulge here as Barbados offers some really exquisite golf courses (it was actually the destination for Tiger Woods’ wedding).
Best For: Affordable Travel, Beach Lovers, Surfers, Golfers, Couples, Families, and Foodies
Accessibility from US and Canada: Easy to get to with daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $
5. Cuba
For a truly exotic and foreign experience in the Caribbean, you’re going to want to head to Cuba right now. The rumors are true... The island really looks as if it has just been unleashed from a time capsule from the 1950s, but there is still so much untouched beauty that visitors can explore. There are beaches to visit, urban adventures to explore, delicious food to indulge in, and lots of music to dance to. Head there quick before they ruin it with Starbucks and McDonalds!
Best For: Adventure Travel, Music Lovers, History Lovers, Couples, Foodies, Beach Lovers, and Affordable Travel
Accessibility from US and Canada: Becoming easier with the increase in flights as travel restrictions ease. Currently some flights from most major airports
Price Range: $
6. Puerto Rico
I might be biased because my family is from here, buttttt.... Puerto Rico is one of the best (if not THE best) destinations in the Caribbean IMO. You have some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world (just Google Flamenco Beach), the only rainforest in North America, colorful streets and nightlife, casinos and live music, delicious food and tons of rum, surfing, and so much more! Plus, you don’t even need a passport to come here if you’re a US citizen!
Best For: Beach Lovers, Families, Couples, Singles, Foodies, Surfing, Water Sports, Outdoor Adventures, Hiking, and Golfers
Accessibility from US and Canada: Extremely easy to get to with frequent, daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $$
7. Dominica
Dominica is the perfect destination for people who are looking for something different than the typical “beachy” Caribbean destination. The terrain and geography of Dominica provides visitors the perfect landscape for outdoor adventures. Think hiking, waterfalls, diving, mountainous rainforests, natural hot springs or mud baths. It’s been dubbed the “Nature Island.”
Best For: Outdoor Adventures, Hiking, Watersports & Diving, and Couples
Accessibility from US and Canada: Will most likely have to connect on a flight from a nearby island, like Puerto Rico
Price Range: $$$
8. Dominican Republic
While Dominican Republic has traditionally been known as a great budget-friendly destination, recent developments have turned this popular Caribbean island into a luxury escape for all types of travelers. You can enjoy affordable all-inclusive beach resorts, hidden getaways in the forest, or luxurious colonial-style villas in the city.
Best For: Affordable Travel, Beach Lovers, Families, Urban Travel, Couples, Luxury Travel, Golfers, and Outdoor Adventures
Accessibility from US and Canada: Extremely easy to get to with frequent, daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $
9. Curacao
The two largest appeals of coming to Curacao are the diving/snorkeling excursions and the cuisine. The beautiful bays and colorful urban landscapes aren’t too bad either!
Best For: Watersports & Diving, Outdoor Adventures, Urban Travel, Families, Foodies, Affordable Travel, and Couples
Accessibility from US and Canada: Moderate with a (likely) layover in a nearby city or island
Price Range: $
10. Trinidad and Tobago
These sister islands are like a yin and yang in that they can offer visitors two completely different experiences. Trinidad, which is home to one of the world’s biggest Carnival celebrations, is a much bigger island and has some of the best nightlife, music, and culture scenes. Tobago, on the other hand, is much smaller and home to lush rainforests, sandy beaches, and a relaxing natural environment. You really get the best of both worlds by visiting these sister islands.
Best For: Music Lovers, Outdoor Adventures, Watersports & Diving, Foodies, and Hiking
Accessibility from US and Canada: Moderate with flights into Trinidad from most major airports
Price Range: $$
11. Cayman Islands
Heading to the Cayman Islands can feel a lot like visiting places in Southern Florida. Vacationers can enjoy outdoor activities, such as snorkeling and diving (especially at Stingray City, where you can actually swim with them too) or lounging on pristine beaches (like Seven Mile Beach). You can also go golfing or dine at upscale restaurants, like Chef Eric Ripert’s restaurant.
Best For: Watersports & Diving, Beach Lovers, Affordable Travel, Foodies, Families, and Golfers
Accessibility from US and Canada: Easy to get to with daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $$
12. US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands are comprised of 3 main islands—St. John, St. Thomas and St. Croix—as well as some other smaller, minor islands. St. John and St. Croix are a bit less developed that St. Thomas, so here you’ll be able to explore the natural landscape and parks a bit better (think horseback riding, hiking, and snorkeling). St. Thomas is great for people who enjoy the mega-resort vibe and the commercial comforts of the US.
Best For: Beach Lovers, Outdoor Adventures, Families, Couples, Water Sports, Hiking, and Affordable Travel
Accessibility from US and Canada: Easy to get to with daily flights from most major airports and ferries available from St. Thomas to reach other islands
Price Range: $$
13. British Virgin Islands
If you’re into sailing or boating, this is your destination. Visitors often explore the British Virgin Islands by these modes of transportation, making it great to explore all the little caves and bays around the terrain. People who enjoy snorkeling and diving will also find paradise among the islands here.
Best For: Sailors and Boating, Watersports & Diving, Couples, and Families
Accessibility from US and Canada: Will most likely have to connect on a flight from a nearby island, or find a flight into Tortola. Can also take a ferry from St. Thomas.
Price Range: $$$$
14. Turks and Caicos
If you’re looking to relax near some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, then Turks and Caicos is your place. The islands are surrounded by crystal clear waters and beautiful coral reefs to explore. Turks and Caicos is also wonderful destination for visitors looking to be pampered and treated by some of the best health and wellness retreats and resorts in the Caribbean.
Best For: Beach Lovers, Health & Wellness Retreats, Watersports & Diving, Couples, Families, and Luxury Travel
Accessibility from US and Canada: Easy to get to with daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $$$
15. Jamaica
Jamaica is undoubtedly in the middle of a rebirth period right now. The island, which was once known as the home of reggae music and Bob Marley (and also for being a frequent cruise ship port), is quickly coming onto the scene as a perfect Caribbean getaway for any type of traveler. You can still come to experience the incredible music scene, but you’ll stay after you fall in love with the local cuisine, the natural landscapes and terrain, the idyllic beaches, and the luxurious resorts.
Best For: Music Lovers, Foodies, Beach Lovers, Affordable Travel, Outdoor Adventures, Couples, Families, and Golfers
Accessibility from US and Canada: Easy to get to with flights from most major airports
Price Range: $
16. St. Martin/St. Maarten
This lively island is shared with between the Dutch and the French, thus offering a very unique cultural experience on both parts of the island. The French side offers a more laid back and charming vibe, while the Dutch side offers a more boisterous and vibrant feel. There are also tons of restaurant choices because of these two unique cultures that sit side by side.
Best For: Cultural Travel, Foodies, Beach Lovers, and Urban Travel
Accessibility from US and Canada: Easy with flights from most major airports
Price Range: $$$
17. Anguilla
Foodies and beach lovers who are looking for a luxury low-key vibe will find paradise in Anguilla. You’ll find everything from hole-in-the-wall food shacks to five star dining and just about any cuisine you’re looking for. The beaches are also spectacular, with some of the most famous being Shoal Bay, Meads Bay, Maundays Bay, and Junks Hole.
Best For: Foodies, Beach Lovers, Couples, and Luxury Travel
Accessibility from US and Canada: Moderate with ferries departing from St. Martin
Price Range: $$$$
18. Grenada
Grenada is somewhat of an untouched beauty in the Caribbean. This little island is perfect for a beach vacation getaway where you won’t have to deal with hoards of tourists and bustling crowds. The rainforest also offers a great escape into nature, while St. George’s (the capital) looks like a mini replica of the Italian Riviera.
Best For: Beach Lovers, Couples, Outdoor Adventures, Hiking, Couples, Families, Foodies, and Relaxation
Accessibility from US and Canada: Moderate with some direct flights from major airports and some with connecting flights
Price Range: $$$
19. Guadeloupe
This little island is one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets. This French territory is home to some incredible beaches, quaint seaside villages, and an exquisite culinary scene. It’s a great spot for people who want to vacation without the side of tourists.
Best For: Beach Lovers, Couples, Foodies, and Families
Accessibility from US and Canada: Will most likely have to connect on a flight from a nearby airport or island
Price Range: $$
20. Haiti
Haiti has been faced with some challenging times in recent years—from political unrest to natural disasters. There is still some natural beauty around the island, but the rich African culture and history really makes this place a great destination for travelers who are interested in exploring those subjects. If you're interested in giving to the greater good during your trip, you might want to consider visiting Haiti to participate in mission or aide work as well.
Best For: Cultural Travel or Mission/Aide Work
Accessibility from US and Canada: Will most likely have to connect on a flight from a nearby airport or island
Price Range: $
21. Martinique
Francophiles and French-speakers will likely enjoy a trip to this French-Creole destination. Visitors can enjoy isolated beaches, world-class cuisine, and a lovely, historic port with 17th century buildings that make for a colorful and lively town.
Best For: Francophiles, Foodies, Couples, Hiking, and Beach Lovers
Accessibility from US and Canada: Moderate with few major airports offering daily flight options, although more are starting to offer them
Price Range: $$
22. St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis is another pair of sister islands that offers visitors fun outdoor activities and hiking, historic, pirate-era landmarks, and great golf courses.
Best For: Outdoor Adventures, Hiking, History Lovers, and Golfers
Accessibility from US and Canada: Will most likely have to connect on a flight from a nearby island, like Puerto Rico
Price Range: $$
23. St. Lucia
Source
St. Lucia is known for being the ultimate honeymooner’s destination of the Caribbean. It offers breathtaking views of its mountains, great hiking terrain, lush waterfall and rainforest trails, and botanical gardens. But if you come here to just kick it on the beach, you won’t be disappointed either.
Best For: Couples, Beach Lovers, Outdoor Adventures, Hiking, Watersports & Diving, and Luxury Travel
Accessibility from US & Canada: Easy to get to with daily flights from most major airports
Price Range: $$
24. St. Vincent & the Grenadines
This string of islands is probably the least visited area of the Caribbean, but it offers a lot for a particular type of traveler. These islands are great for divers and people who love boating and sailing, which works out well for them since it’s not overly congested with tourists.
Best For: Diving, Sailors & Boating, and Adventure Travel
Accessibility from US & Canada: Will most likely have to connect on a flight from a nearby location and can travel to surrounding islands by boat
Price Range: $$
25. St. Barts
Visiting St. Bart’s is the ultimate luxury destination in the Caribbean and perfect for people who are really looking to indulge. This French-speaking island is popular with the A-list crowds because of its luxury accommodations, beautiful beaches, high-end shopping, and fine dining establishments. You can expect expensive yachts, private luxury villas (that come with a private butler), crazy nightlife, and the occasional celebrity sighting.
Best For: Luxury Travelers, Foodies, Couples, and Beach Lovers
Accessibility from US and Canada: Will most likely have to connect on a flight from a nearby island, like Puerto Rico or Antigua
Price Range: $$$$
Have you ever been to the Caribbean? What is your favorite destination and why? Comment below with more tips!
This post is in collaboration with Luxury Retreats. All opinions are my own.
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The Best Carry-On Luggage for Travelers
Are you looking for the best carry-on luggage to use this year? Check out which carry-on luggage I think is the best for travelers to use, plus get an exclusive discount to try it out!
The Best Carry-On Luggage for Travelers
Picture this: You're heading out for a weekend trip to see your friends down in Miami. You've got your sunnies and sunscreen ready to go, you've got your boarding pass on your phone, you've group texted the gang to let them know how excited you are, you're all packed and ready to go, and suddenly... Your alarm clock goes off late. You have to rush to the airport to make your flight on time. You get to the airport and the line for the check-in counter to check your bag is wrapped around longer than Starbucks' line on a Monday morning. You're probably thinking to yourself "@#%*!!!! How am I ever going to get on this flight?!"
None of this would have ever happened if you just had the right carry-on luggage. And if you had set your alarm clock properly... But really, let's focus here: the luggage. If you had only had a quality carry-on for your trip, you could have easily zipped on through the security line and still made it with time to grab a coffee and croissant.
Make sure to read on to get an exclusive discount on the best carry-on luggage for travelers!
With many US-based airlines charging ridiculous fees to check-in bags for flights, many frequent travelers have been on the hunt for the best carry-on luggage. But with so many great options, how do you choose?
I personally loathe checking bags when I travel. Not only do I get irked at paying the airline more for something that should be included (it is free almost everywhere else in the world except the United States--minus Southwest Airlines because they are amazing), but I just can't stand having to go down to the carousel and wait forever to get my bag once I land. I just want to get out and gooooo! Because of this, I've become a master at learning how to pack really well and fit everything inside of a carry-on luggage and small personal item.
So what is the best carry-on luggage for travelers, you ask? I really think I've found it...
Photo via AwayTravel.com
The Carry-On by Away
Starting at just $225, awaytravel.com
I have been in the market for a new carry-on for the last few months and had seen a couple ads for the Away brand around New York, so I was intrigued to find out more. After doing a little research, the details and specs of this luggage were enough to excite me to try it out. I mean, when you can get a carry-on luggage that also doubles as a portable USB charger and is extremely affordably priced, how can you not get excited about that??
First of all, I just want to note that this luggage absolutely over-exceeded my expectations. I never thought I would love a carry-on luggage so much. Let me detail exactly why...
1. Built-in USB Charger
How many times have you been on a trip and all of a sudden your phone, tablet, or whatever other electronic device dies? It's happened to me more times than I can count. And don't even try and scurry around the airport to find an outlet because half the time they don't work and the other half they are being used.
With this carry-on luggage, you have a portable USB charger right at your side! There are even 2 ports available that charge at normal speed and fast speed. The Micro-USB to charge your luggage comes included with your bag. This is such a game changer for travel--I love it!
The battery is also compliant with all FAA, TSA, and DOT regulations, so you shouldn't have a problem with it. The only time I had an issue was at 1 airport in Thailand, which Away tells you about in their little intro booklet you receive once you purchase the luggage. They let me through security, it was just kind of a pain in the butt to put my luggage through the screener twice. Just make sure to read the booklet so you know how to handle that. Everywhere else, you're totally good!
2. Built-in TSA-approved Lock
While I don't always lock up my suitcase, it is nice to know that I have the ability to without having to remember to actually bring my mini locks. The zippers on the luggage conveniently turn into a lock at the top of the luggage.
This feature actually came in handy when I was checking in and out of hotels and had to leave my luggage at the front desk or with the bell men! Just provided an extra sense of security (both figuratively and literally).
3. Plenty of Room With Compression Pads
While I have gotten much, much better at learning to pack only the necessities, there's still a couple travel hacks I have up my sleeves to maximize my efforts and still bring that extra dress or extra pair of shoes without compromising too much space.
The first trick is to use packing cubes to really get your clothes as organized and compressed as possible. I'm obsessed with my Eagle Creek Packing Cubes (which you can find on Amazon right here) because I can organize my clothes by type of garment or by size.
Once you have the packing cubes set to go, the next trick is to have a luggage that will allow you to compress everything even further. With this carry-on luggage, you can use the handy compression pads to make sure everything is nice and tight in there. You can also use other packing hacks like using your shoes as storage space to really maximize efforts here.
I was literally able to pack 2 week's worth of clothes and shoes (along with my toiletries, medicines, and other accessories) into this carry-on luggage because of the compression pads and space that is available. It's amazing!
4. 4-Wheel Drive
If you don't have a carry-on luggage that has 4 wheels, you're doing it wrong. Having 4 wheels on your luggage is soooo much easier to handle than a luggage with 2 wheels. Think about it: you're pushing something instead of pulling something. It's a lot less energy and you can put more weight on it without feeling like you're lugging a bag of bricks. The Premium Hinomoto wheels on this carry-on, which rotate 360 degrees, make for a smooth ride every time.
5. Built-in Laundry Bag
Right inside the luggage, you'll find a fold-out nylon laundry bag that allows you to easily separate your dirty clothes from your clean clothes. Once it's full, it just rests on top of the other items and you can use the compression pads to push it down. Super convenient, especially if you're doing any physical or outdoor activities on your trip!
6. Extremely lightweight and durable
The thing that initially drew me to this carry-on (besides that bad ass USB charger) was the high quality and sleek design of the luggage. The last thing you want is some heavy clunker to carry from airport to airport.
This luggage weighs just 7 lbs. (which is very light for a carry-on) and comes with an extremely durable exterior shell. The material is nearly scratch resistant, a natural shock absorber, and has a little give to it making it easy to expand and give you more space for packing. Basically, it's perfect for long term use and frequent travelers.
7. Convenient storage bag for home
When you get the luggage after placing your order, it comes in a nice fabric storage bag, which they recommend you keep for safe storage when your carry-on is not in use. I understand this isn't like "a deal breaker," but it's just a nice extra thing to have to preserve the lifespan of your carry-on.
BONUS: The Monogram Edition
This is suchhhh a cute addition to an already great carry-on luggage. The Away team has partnered with a super talented artist in New York who will hand-paint up to 3 letters on your suitcase so you can have your own customized bag. This is PERFECT for personalizing your bag or giving a special gift to someone you love! You can chose the color palette and font from the selections available and they will ship your brand new, hand-painted monogram luggage within 2-3 weeks. I absolutely love this and hope to get it on the next Away luggage I get! You can choose this style when you shop their website!
*Use THIS LINK for $20 OFF your first Away purchase!*
So...I'm not going to leave you reading this post without giving you a little something special. Use the link in the box above to get $20 off your first Away purchase! You'll see the discount taken at the time of checkout (scroll towards the bottom of the page to see the price with discount), so no worries on entering a code. Let me know how you like it once you try it out!
Like I said, I'm happy to report back that this carry-on luggage wayyy over exceeded my expectations (as you can tell by this review). I am so in love with this little thing that it would be hard for me to switch over to another carry-on. There's a 99% chance if you see me in an airport in the coming year, I'm going to have this bad boy right by my side.
What do you think about the Away luggage? Have you tried it? Or is there another carry-on that you really love to use when you travel? Let me know in the comments below!
Thank you so much to Away for providing me with a luggage to try out. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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A Weekend Guide to Charleston
After a long-awaited time, we're finally heading down to Charleston to see what all the hype is about! Candy colored houses, cobblestone streets, and all the Southern cooking we've ever dreamed us is what is waiting for us in The Holy City. Use this weekend travel guide to Charleston to figure out where to eat, sleep, and play on any budget!
A Weekend Guide to Charleston
Every magazine. Every travel article. Every Instagram post. I couldn't get away from it. Charleston was right in my face everywhere I turned for the last couple years. The Holy City has been on the rise in popularity with travelers from all over the world and it was about time for me to get down there to see what all the hype was about. That and the fact that I also wanted to feel like a little princess amongst those candy colored houses and cobblestone streets...
I'm not even going to waste my time with a long intro to this post because the content below speaks for itself (I mean, just LOOK at that enormous food list!). This might even be one of the most comprehensive mini city guides I've ever put together for you... Use this handy weekend guide to Charleston so you can easily figure out where to eat, sleep, and play on any budget!
In case you haven't been tuning into popular culinary shows like Top Chef or Parts Unknown, Charleston has officially emerged as one of the great food meccas of our country (and I will gladly have words with anyone who says otherwise). You can come to Charleston and spend a month eating at a different place for every meal and you'd only begin to scratch the surface of what this city has to offer (you'll see what I mean based on my list). This city is on another level when it comes to food--and I am all about that level.
The best thing about the restaurant scene here is that you can really find just about any cuisine you're looking for at every price range. Plus, everything you eat is guaranteed to be fullllll with flavor (give me all the buttery shrimp and grits, I don't even care about my cholesterol). To help you narrow down your [endless] choices, here's a list of some of my favorite spots you should check out when visiting Charleston!
Budget:
Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, $, 476 1/2 King St -- Do yourself a favor and grab a nice, homemade biscuit from here to start of your day. They are soooo yummy and come in a variety of styles. Such an adorable little shop!
Persimmon Cafe, $, 226 Calhoun St -- Quaint little cafe/sandwich shop that is located in a laundromat (yes, a laundromat). But don't let that put you off because the sandwiches are to die for.
Brown Dog Deli, $, 40 Broad St -- Pet friendly spot with really great sandwiches and salads
Dashi Food Truck, $, Location Varies -- This little Asian/Latin fusion food truck is all the rage with locals. And honestly, how can you not love a place that has a slogan like this: "Put Some Sriracha in Your Sombrero." All you have to do is check their website schedule to see where they will be on what dates. They're often at the weekend Farmer's Market too, which is definitely something to check out if you're in town when it's open!
Sugar Bakeshop, $, 59 1/2 Cannon St -- Cute little bakeshop with delicious cupcakes and sweets in a fun area of town. Gluten free options available as well!
Bon Banh Mi, $, 162 Spring St -- Incredibly flavorful food (tacos and sandwiches galore) at this Vietnamese-style spot
Verde, $, 347 King St -- Good spot for a quick salad
Pink Bellies Food Truck, $, 73 Saint Philip St -- Another incredibly tasty food truck to stop by in Charleston. This one serves up Vietnamese style treats to their hungry customers. Location may vary, so just check on their website or social media
Breizh Pan Crepes, $, 39 George St -- Delicious crepe spot that offers both sweet and savory options (with gluten-free crepes available, too!)
Butcher & Bee, $($), 1085 Morrison Dr -- So this place is a little higher priced than the others on this budget section, but it is very worth a trip. The food and all the ingredients they use are extremely fresh and filling. The decor and vibe are also very fun, so it's worth a trip outside of the downtown area. Make sure to try the roast beef sandwich!
Moderate:
167 Raw, $$, 289 E Bay St -- Do not skip this place. UNREAL seafood menu? Check. Trendy decor? Check. Affordable prices for incredible seafood? Check. Cute bartenders and staff...? Check. If you're into a little Ahi Poke like I am, order the "GAINZ BOWL" when you go (yes, GAINZ with a "Z"). It's an off-the-menu item that the staff will surely know about. It's basically the Ahi Poke mixed with a little avocado. Delish delish delishhhhh...UGH! *mouth drips with drool*
Xiao Bao Biscuit, $$, 224 Rutledge Ave -- I had no idea the South could pack so much Asian flavor into a dish until I tried this place. Incredible option if you're looking for some Asian Soul Food Fusion around Charleston. Their most famous dish is the Okonomiyaki, which is a Japanese cabbage pancake that you can add candied pork, bacon, or an egg to. The flavors in all the dishes are unbeatable.
Edmund's Oast, $$, 1081 Morrison Dr -- Great brew pub just outside of the downtown area that's wonderful for people craving a quality beer accompanied by a hearty meal
R Kitchen, $$, 212 Rutledge Ave -- Come here to enjoy the chefs cooking a 5-course meal for you right in front of your face
Hominy Grill, $$, 207 Rutledge Ave -- Ideal place to grab some authentic Southern style breakfast
Avila, $$, 141 Calhoun St -- A Venezuelan food truck turned brick and mortar joint. The arepas and tostones are a popular combo here.
Fuel, $$, 211 Rutledge St -- Located in an old gas station in a trendy part of town, this little spot has a variety of Caribbean style food that keeps people coming back for more
39 Rue de Jean, $$, 39 John St -- A delightful French brasserie in the heart of Charleston
5Church, $$, 32 N Market St -- The interior (particularly the art and the ceiling) is really something to stop in and marvel at. The restaurant is located in an old church and the entire manuscript of "Art of War," is written in white on the ceiling. It is absolutely incredible to see! The food menu looks just as appetizing as the drinks, too!
Pawpaw, $$, 209 E Bay St -- There are quite a few reasons why the locals in Charleston are flocking to this new hotspot: The wine on tap, the hushpuppies and fries, and basically the rest of the menu. You can't go wrong with anything here.
Also try: Poogan's Porch, Jestine's Kitchen, Pearlz Oyster Bar, Cannon Green (beautiful interior!), and O-Ku
Luxury:
Husk, $$$, 76 Queen St -- If you can only pick 1 place to eat in Charleston, let it be Husk. DO NOT SKIP THIS PLACE! The hype is very real for all the right reasons. The food here, which is all sourced locally, is un-freaking-believable. I didn't care much for shrimp and grits until I came here and actually tasted real shrimp and grits. The food is outstanding and you probably will need to arrange to be wheelchaired home because it's nearly impossible to stop eating once you've tasted the deliciousness that comes out of that kitchen.
Chez Nous, $$$, 6 Payne Ct -- This adorable French spot, which is tucked away in a hidden alley, is a well kept secret amongst the locals. The trendy restaurant has a different menu every single day and posts the daily options on their Instagram page every morning.
The Ordinary, $$$, 544 King St -- There is nothing ordinary about this restaurant and its menu. If you're looking for a good seafood dinner in Charleston, this is your spot! The oyster sliders are definitely something to write home about.
Halls Chophouse, $$$$, 434 King St -- There's a lot of debate as to where you can truly find the best steak in Charleston, but Halls Chophouse just might come out on top... They have a Gospel Brunch on Sunday, and the service here is said to be incredible
Coast Bar & Grill, $$($), 39 John St, Ste D -- This little seafood spot is tucked away in a hidden alley (which is picture worthy in and of itself) and boasts some great happy hour specials. The portions do not disappoint either.
The Macintosh, $$$, 479 King St -- This trendy spot off of King Street has a great assortment of seafood and meat dishes on the menu, as well as a thirst quenching drink menu.
Zero Restaurant + Bar, $$$, 0 George St -- A lovely, cozy restaurant located in the heart of the uber hip Zero George Hotel
Circa 1886, $$$$, 149 Wentworth St -- The epitome of fine dining in the heart of Charleston. This world renowned place is located in the carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion. Definitely a place to go if you're celebrating a special occasion.
S.N.O.B., $$$, 192 E Bay St -- The acronym stands for "Slightly North of Broad," which is exactly where this restaurant is located. The food here is very unpretentious and outstanding. You can get a nice combination of shared plates, or your own larger entree(s) if you prefer.
Cypress, $$$, 167 E Bay St -- Although this definitely classifies as a fine dining spot in the city, they do have a couple of nights that there are incredible specials. Maybe the locals have just done a really good job a keeping it a secret, but you can come here for $5 burgers on Mondays! Also try the Wasabi Tuna and Lavender Martini when you're here.
Also try: FIG, Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar, Magnolias, McCrady's Tavern, Trattoria Lucca, High Cotton
BONUS: PLACES TO GRAB A DRINK
*I don't normally include a list of places to drink in my city guides, but Charleston's options had quite a few that stood out to me. Here are my favorites:
Prohibition, $$, 547 King St -- Great spot for music and also has a tasty food menu
The Belmont, $$, 511 King St
5Church, $$, 32 N Market St -- See above in the food section
The Cocktail Club, $$, 479 King St -- Pseudo-speakeasy right along King Street
Closed for Business, $$, 453 King St -- Beer and bar food are the specialties here
Bin 152, $$, 152 King St -- For those looking for a good wine bar
Minero, $$, 153B E Bay St -- Great for spicy margaritas and tacos with the girls
The Gin Joint, $$, 182 E Bay St
Bar at Husk, $$, 74 Queen St -- Husk is a must-eat place just as Bar at Husk is a must-drink place
The Luxury Hotel
Belmond Charleston Place, $$$, 205 Meeting Street
The Belmond Charleston Place is the ultimate place where sophisticated luxury meets Southern charm. It was my preferred hotel in Charleston because of the gorgeous hotel amenities and its prime, central location. You can read more about my stay here by going to this post right here!
Also try: The Dewberry ($$$)
The Boutique Hotel
Zero George Street, $$$, 0 George St
Image via Zero George Street
If you're looking for a great hotel for a girl's weekend, Zero George Street might be your place. This charming and refined boutique hotel, which is set in 5 historic, restored homes, is sure to make you never want to leave. Guests can enjoy the on site restaurant, breakfast every day, and even wine/cheese receptions. They also have loaner bikes available for their guests to use to bike around the downtown area. Too cute!
Also try: The Spectator Hotel ($$$) or The Restoration ($$$)
The B&B Luxury Mansion
John Rutledge House Inn, $$$, 116 Broad Street
I stumbled upon the John Rutledge House Inn on one of my walks around Charleston and decided to pop in for a quick look. The concierge was so kind and friendly and he even let me get a look inside one of their suites! The rooms were incredibly elegant and glamorous and made me feel like I had literally stepped back in time. Definitely a beautiful place to put on the bucket list if historic mansions are your cup of tea.
Also try: Wentworth Mansion ($$$$) or French Quarter Inn ($$$)
The Affordable Inn
King Charles Inn, $$, 237 Meeting St
Image via King Charles Inn
This wonderful inn is perfectly located right in the heart of downtown, making it perfect walking distance to get anywhere you need. They also have a lovely rooftop pool and terrace, making it a great place to cool off in the hot summer months.
Also try: The Vendue ($$) or 1837 Bed and Breakfast ($$)
Things To Do in Charleston:
Check out my favorite (and FREE) 5 Self-Guided Walking Tours of Charleston to explore the city!
Sign up for a Candle Making Class at Candlefish. This was by far one of the most fun things we did on our trip! You'll instantly fall in love with the store when you walk in, so it's cool to be able to take a class where you can actually make your own product to take home (even though I went home with about 20 other products as well...). It's also BYOB, which makes for a great excuse to drink mimosas before noon. Make sure to sign up ahead of time because space is very limited!
Take a day trip to Folly Beach or Sullivan's Island
Rent a bike for the day from a place like The Bicycle Shoppe or Affordabike Bicycle Shop.
Go Shopping! There are so many adorable and local boutiques placed all around the city of Charleston and finding them is half the fun. I personally love Candlefish, mac & murphy, Candy Shop Vintage, The Commons, Sweet 185, Luna, Worthwhile, V2V, Vestique, and The Impeccable Pig
Visit Charleston's Historic Houses. Since Charleston is so old, you can surely bet that you'll get your fair dose of history lessons in your trip if you visit the historic houses/museums around the city. I love these attractions because it feels like stepping into a piece of history! You'll see how incredibly well maintained some of these properties are as well. My personal favorites were the Aiken-Rhett House, the Nathaniel Russell House, and the Heyward-Washington House.
Walk along Rainbow Row and the Waterfront Park, which are probably the two most photographed locations in all of Charleston. I recommend going super early to avoid the crowds!
Shop for your dream home around Battery Park and White Point Gardens
Take a historic walking tour or carriage tour of downtown Charleston
Wander around the French Quarter and downtown areas. It is the best way you will find the city's adorable hidden alleys, colorful houses, and courtyards.
Explore Upper King Street, which is becoming the new hip and trendy area with lots of new restaurants and shops opening up.
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO Charleston? WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO EAT, PLACES TO STAY, OR THINGS TO DO? COMMENT BELOW WITH MORE RECOMMENDATIONS!
Thank you to Explore Charleston and Belmond Charleston Place for hosting my visit in Charleston. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you. All opinions are my own.
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Where to Stay in Charleston: Belmond Charleston Place
Located in the heart of the downtown Charleston is the chic and elegant Belmond Charleston Place. The hotel's prime location--just a stone's throw away from all the city's major hot spots--makes it an ideal home base for visitors from all around. Step inside this luxury, urban oasis and see why it's nearly impossible to leave the city after falling in love with its Southern Charm.
Belmond Charleston Place: Where Sophisticated Luxury Meets Southern Charm
There’s something special going on in the southern part of the United States right now that’s attracting travelers from around the globe for a myriad of reasons. A refreshing, modern revival has been hitting places that used to fly pretty under the radar for most travelers. A southern renaissance, if you will.
We’re seeing a rise of fresh and new fusion cuisines, exclusive and trendy restaurants, very unique local boutiques, and cocktail lounges that could rival those of Manhattan or London. Charleston, South Carolina has been one of the cities at the forefront of this incredible rebirth of the modern-day “south,” and it’s definitely not a city to be ignored. The cobblestone streets, the candy colored houses, and the quintessential southern charm all make for quite the fairytale destination—and it’s all located right here in our very own backyard.
After doing a little research on the city and getting an idea for where everything was, I knew I wanted to stay somewhere that was centrally located so that I could walk around as much as possible. You know me... I’m a city girl with a natural disdain for cars and driving. Give me my walking shoes, public transit, and taxis and I’m a happy girl!
The Belmond Charleston Place seemed to be the absolute perfect location for getting around town and seeing everything that I wanted to see. It was never more than a 10-15 minute walk to get anywhere I wanted in all of downtown Charleston, with many of the places I wanted to check out just literally steps from the front door. You really can’t get much better than that!
Arriving at the Resort – Location, Location, Location
Like I said, the prime location of Belmond Charleston Place is one of the hotel’s strongest attributes that set it apart from any other hotel in the city. Getting to the hotel from the Charleston Airport was a quick 20-minute drive (on a good day with hardly any traffic). Once you pull up to the hotel, the magnificent Quadriga Fountain greets you as you begin your stay.
Walking into the lobby felt like stepping into the luxurious mansion of your long-lost southern relatives. I’m not sure which one made me feel more cozy and at home first—the breathtaking spiral staircase fully decked out in holiday decorations (with an electric train chugging around the perimeter), or the warm hospitality of the concierge staff greeting me as I walked in.
Image courtesy of Belmond Charleston Place
*Notable Mention: The concierge staff is incredible, by the way... When I arrived, I told them I wanted somewhere trendy and local with great seafood to take my mom over the weekend and their recommendations were on point every single time. I never felt like I was heading into a tourist trap, which is the last thing I want when I’m traveling.
Modern Luxury and Urban Elegance Meets Southern Charm
There have been a small handful of times in my life where I’ve walked into a hotel suite and thought to myself, “Um...is this real life???” Stepping into my room at the Belmond Charleston Place was one of those moments.
The luxury accommodations and signature suites at Belmond Charleston Place are a perfect marriage of modern, sophisticated grandeur and old, southern style elegance. The entry hall of our suite led us into a grand living room that was full of bright, natural light and Charleston’s historic city views. The living room came with a smaller dining area attached, where I was able to enjoy a lovely breakfast while overlooking the city every morning.
As if it couldn’t get any better than that, the living room led to a set of French doors (yes, please!), which welcomed us into our spacious king-bedded room with an ensuite bathroom. The bathroom—which gave me total bathroom envy—included an Italian Carrara marble vanity and a walk-in rain head shower. One step into that shower and I felt like I could just stay there the whole time... It was quite relaxing (especially once you slip into one of their signature robes)!
One of my favorite conveniences of the room was the master controlled lighting, which was just on the side of the bed. One touch and you can control all the lights in the suite—which was really great for my lazy bum when I didn’t want to get out of bed :) It’s the little things, ya know?
How to spend your time here
Book a stay with access to the Club Level Lounge
Having access to this part of the hotel was what took my stay at the Belmond Charleston Place from great to EXCELLENT. On the top 2 floors of the hotel, there is an exclusive VIP Club Lounge for guests who are staying on the 7th and 8th floors (or guests with suites that permit access) to enjoy 24 hours a day.
What’s included in the lounge, you ask? Oh, just breakfast, snacks, high tea with little sandwiches and hors d’oeuvres, and dinner appetizers... Oh, and also complimentary cocktails and beverages. Yes...all of that. All day.
You have 2 spacious floors to come, kick back, eat, drink, relax, and take in the views of Charleston (especially gorgeous views of the city at sunrise and sunset from the club level). AND the food menu changes on a daily basis, so you’ll always be getting new tasty treats up there! I made it my ritual to go there basically before and/or after every meal to enjoy a glass of wine or some appetizers. It was simply divine.
I highly encourage booking a stay on the Club Level for the sole purpose of getting to enjoy this lounge every day. It is worth every penny. And a special shout out to the staff up there that made each visit to the lounge an absolute delight! These guys are seriously awesome!
Spend some time at the pool and rooftop area
The pool at Belmond Charleston Place looks like something fresh out of a Greek mythology textbook. Something about the large, white pillars on both sides of the pool and bright, open skylight make this room marvelously irresistible.
If you want to catch an incredible view of King Street, head to the rooftop area to catch a glimpse at any time of the day. There are even lounge chairs, tables, and an outdoor bar and grill area for guests to enjoy during their visit. If anything, you should at least head up there to grab a picture of the cute and colorful buildings along King Street.
Do some shopping
If you’re looking to shop and splurge a little bit on your trip, consider taking a look through the shops downstairs on the main floor of the lobby. There are luxury boutiques, such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton, and a few mid-range ones, such as White House/Black Market or Tommy Bahama. If this is the sort of thing you’re into when you travel, then you’re in luck because it’s right downstairs in the hotel! No need to travel too far.
Other notable mentions:
Spa and Gym
Located on the same floor as the pool, the spa and gym area offers a great escape into the tranquil oasis that this hotel has to offer. Book a massage or beauty treatment during your stay, or hit the gym to work off all that delicious southern food (like shrimp and grits) you’ll be eating.
Dine at the many Restaurants
Charleston is becoming widely known as a being an epicenter of food culture in the south (Top Chef, anyone?), so it comes as no surprise that Belmond Charleston Place has its own gourmet cuisine right on site.
Right on the first floor, you’ll find the Charleston Grill, which I particularly loved in the evening times to sip on some cocktails and listen to live jazz music. Just around the corner from that is The Palmetto Cafe, which has an incredibly gorgeous garden-style courtyard just along side their bright, spacious indoor dining room. It’s a great place for weekend brunch if you don’t want to venture out too far.
Also located within the hotel grounds is Meeting at Market, an upscale pub for those looking to relax with a beer and burger while watching a game. Their menu does offer a slightly elevated take on traditional bar food, which makes total sense considering the upscale amenities of the rest of the hotel.
Guests can also enjoy tapas and drinks at the Thoroughbred Club, or order an assortment of appetizers and hors d’oeuvres with afternoon tea (for parties of 10 or more). You’re definitely taken care of when it comes to dining and drinking here!
Book a Tour
Belmond Charleston Place offers their guests the convenience of booking tours and excursions right with the concierge. You can browse their itineraries, visit the historic sites or plantations, or even play a round of golf. You can book these services once upon your arrival with the hotel or on their website right here if you’re a current guest.
Good to Know information
Like I said earlier, Belmond Charleston Place is within perfect walking distance to just about anywhere you want to go in the downtown Charleston area. You will not need a car to get around from the hotel. You have King Street, the waterfront, and all kinds of historic areas literally just steps away from the front door.
If walking isn’t your jam, you can always use ride share apps like Lyft to get around just fine!
Use the concierge for recommendations on places that you’re interested in going, seeing, or eating at. I’m telling you—they were absolutely on point with all the places they told us to check out!
Overall, I really loved my time at Belmond Charleston Place. The hotel's location is absolutely perfect for getting around anywhere you need, the staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgable about the city, and the conveniences and amenities of the hotel made me feel cozy and right at home. It doesn't get much better than that! I would highly recommend this urban, luxury experience to anyone traveling through Charleston and look forward to returning one day myself!
Belmond Charleston Place
205 Meeting Street
Charleston, South Carolina 29401
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS HOTEL, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW
Thank you to Belmond Charleston Place for hosting our stay. And a special thank you to all of the incredible staff members who made our visit spectacular. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you.All opinions are my own.
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12 Day Trips From London
If you're lucky enough to have more than a few days to spare while traveling in London, you might want to consider taking a day trip to explore some other destinations nearby. Get some "destination inspiration" with these 12 day trips from London that are all easily accessible by train, bus, or plane!
12 Day Trips From London
London is one of the most exciting and vibrant metropolitan cities of the world. While spending time in the city is a must-do, if you're lucky enough to have more than a few days in town, you might want to consider taking a day trip (or two) to explore some of the UK's other gems.
The best part of being in Europe is how convenient it is to get from city to city by train. You can easily get a rail pass from companies like Rail Europe and travel to hundreds of destinations within the continent.
But before you get that ticket, here's some "destination inspiration" for fun and easy day trips from London that you can make during your stay!
1. York
Train Time from London: Approx. 2hrs
Oh, how I love York. York is such a charming little town just north of London that is absolutely worth a visit. You can spend your day wandering around "The Shambles," learning history while exploring the walled city, or drinking tea and champagne at Betty's (my favorite). You can easily walk the city in an entire day, or take one of the hop-on hop-off tour buses if that's your sorta thing.
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, families, groups of friends, history lovers, and cultural travel
2. Oxford
Train Time from London: Approx. 1hr
If you're not really in the mood to go very far from London, check out Oxford for the day. You can see the gorgeous, historic university in the heart of town, visit the majestic Blenheim Palace (birthplace of Winston Churchill) just outside the city center, or just wander around the cute city streets. There is lots to explore around Oxford--and even more to hunt down if you're a Harry Potter fan! *Oxford was featured in various scenes of the Harry Potter films, in case you didn't know...
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, families, groups of friends, history lovers, Harry Potter fans, and cultural travel
Search train tickets to Oxford
3. The Cotswolds
Train Time from London: Approx. 1hr 40min
If you're interested in finding yourself in the middle of a fairy tale world, I would suggest a visit to the Cotswolds. Just outside of Oxford is the idyllic region of the Cotswolds. In my opinion, the best way to explore is by taking The Secret Cottage Tour. You can read more about what that tour entails and how to experience the Cotwolds right here! *Pro tip: As I note in that post, you'll want to take the train from London to Moreton-in-Marsh for the easiest access to the area. There isn't a city named "The Cotswolds."
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, families, groups of friends, history lovers, and cultural travel
Search train tickets to The Cotswolds (such as Moreton-in-Marsh)
4. Harry Potter Studio Tour
Train Time from London: Approx. 20min
For all you Harry Potter fans out there, you simply cannot make a trip to England without visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour just outside of London. Escape into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and see how all of the films were made right on the same sets that they were filmed. I mean...how often do you get to say that you were literally hanging out in Dumbledore's office?! This studio tour is absolutely a must see, especially since it's so closeby!
*Word to the wise: Make sure you get on the direct (express) connection train to Watford Junction from London Euston. I made the mistake once of getting on the local train, which unfortunately stops at every single station on the way (it took 45 minutes instead of 20...ugh), Once you arrive, a Warner Bros. Studio Tour decked out in HP logos will pick you right up from the station. You can't miss it.
Perfect for: Families, solo travelers, Harry Potter fans, groups of friends, and movie buffs
Search train tickets to Watford Junction
5. Brighton
Train Time from London: Approx. 1hr
Just an hour outside of London is the cheery, beachy town of Brighton. This city basically has the beach scene that London is missing. The best time to come is in the warmer season as the winter season tends to limit the amount of outdoor activities you can do. Come here to stroll down the pier or walk along the beach, see the colorful downtown area, and maybe stop in a trendy cafe or two. The city is also known for their lively LGBTQ community.
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, LGBTQ travelers, groups of friends, families, and outdoorsy travelers
Search train tickets to Brighton
6. Bath
Train Time from London: Approx. 1hr 30min
Bath is known for being a quaint, countryside destination that is famous for its well-preserved Roman-era bathhouses, 18th-century Georgian architecture, and honey-colored bath stone that is used throughout the town's architecture. A trip to Bath is like a trip into history. *Pro tip: if you're feeling up for it, you can combine this visit with a trip to Stonehenge, too. It might be a bit tight for some, but just know it can be done!
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, history lovers, groups of friends, and cultural travel
7. Edinburgh
Train Time from London: Approx. 4hr 30min --OR-- Flight Time from London: Approx. 1hr 20min
At the north end of the UK is the ever-popular town of Edinburgh, Scotland. While it might be a bit long for a train ride (clocking in at under 5 hours), you can always hop on a quick flight in the morning and be in the city in less than 2 hours. Visitors can enjoy the medieval influence and architecture of the Old Town, alongside the elegant charm and Georgian influence of the New Town. There is also a lively food and art scene that shouldn't be missed while visiting.
Perfect for: Couples, families, solo travelers, groups of friends, foodies, history lovers, and cultural travel
Search train tickets to Edinburgh
8. Cambridge
Source
Train Time from London: Approx. 50min
Talk about a history lover's paradise! Cambridge boasts one of the world's most prestigious, oldest, and prettiest universities right in town. The University of Cambridge was founded in 1209, so it's bound to have some really unique stories right within those old walls. Come here to relax around the town, explore the quaint passageways between the historic buildings, and grab a pint or some food at the local pub.
Perfect for: Groups of friends, solo travelers, couples, history lovers, cultural travel, and educational travel
Search train tickets to Cambridge
9. Stonehenge
Train Time from London: Approx. 1hr 30min
I don't think I need to speak for Stonehenge because this miraculous, prehistoric site speaks for itself. It's not too far from London, so history lovers should definitely put this on their list. It is worth saying that Stonehenge will not take up your full day's itinerary, so you can easily combine it with a nearby city like Bath or Salisbury. *Pro tip: When you arrive to the train station in Salisbury, you'll need to take a bus or taxi to get to the actual site. The bus is probably your cheapest option and costs around £14 for the trip only, or £26 for trip and site entry.
Perfect for: History lovers, couples, solo travelers, cultural travel, and groups of friends
Search train tickets to Salisbury (for easiest way to Stonehenge)
10. Liverpool
Train Time from London: Approx. 2hr 10min
Music and maritime history are the 2 most popular things to come out of Liverpool, England. Big fans of The Beatles, or just legendary music in general, can add this British hub to their destination list. Stop in at the popular Cavern Club, where the Beatles once played on stage, or spend your time exploring museums or restaurant hopping around town.
Perfect for: Music lovers, cultural travel, families, couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends
Search train tickets to Liverpool
11. Rye
Train Time from London: Approx. 1hr 45min
Rye is an incredibly adorable, historic, and quaint city just near the coast in East Sussex. This little medieval town is a hidden gem within England and is a great place for exploring the cobblestone roads, half-timbered houses, and plenty of cozy tea rooms. There is even a street called Mermaid Street... Yes, please!
Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, families, history lovers, cultural travel, and groups of friends
12. Windsor
Train Time from London: Approx. 1hr
For travelers looking to get an inside look at royal life outside of London, take a trip to the Queen's favorite weekend home at Windsor Castle. Visitors can take tours of the castle grounds and see things like the State Apartments and the Great Park. If you're into horses or racing, you can check out Ascot Racecourse, which is just a few miles from the castle. For families traveling with small children, Legoland Windsor might also be a good option for the afternoon.
Perfect for: Families, cultural travel, couples, solo travelers, history lovers, and groups of friends
Search train tickets to Windsor & Eton
BONUS: Paris
Train Time from London: Approx. 2hr 15min
Alright, so it's not in the UK... But Paris is always a good idea! It definitely is possible to do a day trip from Paris because the train ride is only a little over a 2 hours. Obviously, I'd recommend spending more than just 1 day in Paris; but if it's the only chance you have to see it, then do it.
A Few Other Destination Ideas:
Bristol - Approx. 1hr 35min from London
Downton Abbey's Highclere Castle (in Newbury) - Approx. 1hr from London
Brussels, Belgium - Approx. 2hr from London
Leeds Castle (in Leeds) - Approx. 2hr 10min from London
Stratford-Upon-Avon - Approx. 2hr from London
Have you ever taken a day trip from London? --OR-- Do you have any other day trip recommendations that you'd add to this list? Comment below with more tips!
*Disclosure: Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links. It is at no risk to you and does not cost you anything extra. All money made from affiliate links go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you.
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A Weekend Guide to Tybee Island
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Savannah's historic downtown area is the charming beach town of Tybee Island. It's a fantastic place where you can ride your bike through the streets with your hair blowing in the wind, see all the colorful cottages around town, hit the beach for some surfing, and then unwind with a drink in hand along the pier. Tybee Island is the perfect extension to your Savannah vacation--so use this travel guide to find where to eat, sleep, and play while you're there!
A Weekend Guide to Tybee Island
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Savannah's historic downtown area is the charming little beach town of Tybee Island. Often referred to as "Savannah's Beach," Tybee is a great, natural escape from the urban lifestyle that is only about 15-20 minutes away. It's a fantastic place where you can ride your bike through the streets while ogling at the colorful cottages; hit the beach for some surfing, picnicking, or relaxing; and finally, unwind at the end of the day by watching the sunset over the ocean. It's the perfect beach getaway *and* extension to your trip in Savannah!
It's time to clock into "Tybee Time," as the locals call it. Let your hair down, grab your flip flops, and get ready to relax because we're taking a break from the skyscrapers of the city to enjoy the vibes of the island. Use this weekend guide to Tybee Island to see where you can eat, sleep, and play on any budget during your visit.
Don't be fooled by the size of Tybee Island because the flavors this beachy town certainly pack a punch. There are plenty of great places to eat and enjoy the island when you're staying in Tybee. The best part is that you don't have to break the bank eating in town because there are tons of affordable places in the area.
*One tip of advice if you're eating somewhere near the water, especially in the evening: DO. NOT. FORGET. BUG SPRAY. I made the horrible mistake of doing this when I stayed and woke up the next day paying the price. Don't be silly like me!
Ok...now to the food...
The Breakfast Club, $$, 1500 Butler Ave -- Good local spot to grab breakfast in the morning or a juicy burger
A-J's Dockside, $$, 1315 Chatham Ave -- I love this place for so many reasons. First, there is an awesome dock in the back of the restaurant to catch the gorgeous sunset, which I highly recommend. Make sure to get there early enough if you want to see it because it gets crowded. The food was also a great surprise because what seemed like a "typical bar food" menu was actually full of delicious southern flavor in all the dishes I tried. Definitely a great place to check out!
Sundae Cafe, $$$, 304 1st St -- An unpretentious cafe with a wide variety of really great dishes on the menu. Plenty of seafood, meat, and other hearty meals.
Fish Camp, $$$, 106 S Campbell Ave -- If you're craving fresh seafood alongside a romantic, upscale dining experience, this is your place. The restaurant is in a charming, renovated cottage complete with modern decor and a lovely back patio area.
The Social Club, $$, 1311 Butler Ave -- This spot is notorious for their shrimp and grits, Bloody Marys, and brunch menu. If you're in the mood for a lively brunch with some local music, head there for their Bluegrass Brunch every Sunday from 12-3pm!
Sweetie Pies, $, 1209 Hwy 80 -- Located right next to the adorable, local shop, Seaside Sisters (worth stepping inside for a look at everything they have!), is the little vintage trailer of Sweetie Pies. Stop by for some tasty gelato and other sweet treats on a hot summer day.
The Crab Shack, $$, 40 Estill Hammock Rd -- Seafood lovers rejoice at this place. This restaurant is known for its seafood boils (meaning they don't just deep fry everything like you would imagine for a casual seafood place) and large platters, making it a good place for larger groups.
CoCo's Sunset Grille, $$, 1A Old Us Hwy 80 -- Another great, casual spot to enjoy the Tybee sunset over drinks and food
80 East Gastropub, $$, 725B 1st St -- Like any terrific gastropub, this place serves up quality drinks, a lively atmosphere, and delicious food. It's right next to a gas station, which makes it quite [pleasantly] surprising when you step inside to experience this place.
Huc-a-Poos, $, 1213 US Hwy 80 -- If you're looking for a low key spot to grab some pizza, head to this cool, dive-y spot
The Vacation Rental
Mermaid Cottages, $-$$$, Various Locations
While you'd normally think to stay at a hotel or resort when you travel to an island or beach destination, my recommendation when coming to Tybee Island is to opt for a vacation home rental. What better way to experience the area than living like a local in an adorable beach house or cottage?!
My personal favorite rental group is Mermaid Cottages--partially because I really love mermaids and partially because of how great their properties are. Just take a look at this one that is *literally* beach house goals in every way.
The cottage I stayed in (Doyle's on the Dunes) was pretty much a stone's throw away from the oceanfront and came with all the comfortable amenities of home. You can have your own privacy, a full kitchen/living room/dining room to utilize, multiple bedrooms, and even a deck to hang out and enjoy the views by choosing to stay at a vacation rental like Mermaid Cottages. I recommend this style of accommodations if you're looking for the full Tybee experience.
Also try: Tybee Vacation Rentals, Desoto Beach Terraces, Oceanfront Cottage Rentals
The Beachfront Hotel
DeSoto Beach Hotel, $, 212 Butler Ave
If you do want the convenience of staying at a hotel near the water, check out Desoto Beach Hotel, which has been voted the Best Place to Stay on Tybee many times over. Guests can enjoy a private beach access and a convenient location to the downtown area.
Also try: Hotel Tybee or Beachside Colony Resort
The B&B
Surf Song Bed & Breakfast, 21 Officers Row
Stay in this historic, renovated Victorian home that is over 100 years old, where you'll be steps away from the beach and many other attractions in the area. In addition to the elegant interior of the B&B, guests can also enjoy a private pool, fresh breakfast in the morning, and beautiful views of Tybee from each room.
Also try: Hotel Beachview Bed & Breakfast, Tybee Island Inn, or The Georgianne Inn
Rent a bike to get around town. Of course having a car is convenient to get from place to place; but if you want the real Tybee experience, you absolutely need to rent a bike. There's nothing quite like biking through a beach town with the wind blowing in your hair and the smell of sea salt in the air... You can get one from bike rental companies around town, like Tim's Beach Gear.
Spend a day at the beach. Take a picnic, go for a romantic walk, or just lounge around and relax on the shore all day. You're on an island after all...
Swoon over the beautiful cottages around town. All of the colorful beach homes around the island are so adorable that you can't miss out on seeing them! Bonus points if you do it while riding your bike!
Catch a sunset over the water at places like A-J's or CoCo's (both listed above in "EAT")
Walk along the Tybee Island Pier to see the view from the water
See the view of Tybee from the Tybee Island Light Station. It's a decent walk up to the top of the lighthouse (wear comfortable shoes to climb the stairs), but the view is killer.
Hit the waves and take a surf lesson. If surfing isn't your thing, you can still do kayaking, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and tons of other fun water sports.
Visit some local boutiques like Seaside Sisters (my fave! and has lots of great things from house goods to souvenirs and clothing), Swizzle and Shake (perfect for gifts for those who love to entertain at home), or Kelly & Company (for custom essential oils, bath products, and other natural beauty products)
Spend some time in nature by going on a dolphin adventure tour, taking a Tybee Beach Ecology Trip, or visiting the Marine Science Center
Experience life on "Tybee Time." Being on Tybee is all about relaxing and taking in the island life at your own pace. Everything starts to move a little slower as you leave your cares behind you when you drive into this charming beach town. Indulge in a little R&R, grab a drink (drinks are insanely cheap here compared to city prices--winning!), let your hair down, and take a deep breath to soak it all in. You're on the island time now!
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO TYBEE ISLAND? WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO EAT, PLACES TO STAY, OR THINGS TO DO? COMMENT BELOW WITH MORE RECOMMENDATIONS!
Thank you to Visit Savannah and Visit Tybee for hosting my visit to Savannah. This post may include affiliate links, which comes at absolutely no cost to you. All proceeds go directly back into maintaining this website and making it better for you.All opinions are my own.
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Hi, I'm Ana Rebeca! Welcome to The City Sidewalks. Here you’ll find tips on Travel, Lifestyle, and Wellness.
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