September 28, 2019
Staycation at The Redbury, South Beach
Last week we decided to escape the ordinary and have a “mini” getaway to the famous South Beach for a staycation.
The Redbury is conveniently located in the heart of South beach, next to many tourist attractions, restaurants and bars. The bohemian-retro feel is present everywhere throughout the hotel, from the beautiful mosaic lobby floor to the antique interior decor.
ROOMS
The cozy and charming rooms of The Redbury are culturally designed with unique paintings, work stations and and record players with a variety of famous records, such as Beach Boys and Beatles. Their luxurious marble bathrooms feature soaking tubs and rain showers you will love.
POOL
Indulge in the South Beach views from their beautiful rooftop pool while lounging on one of their comfortable lounge beds or cabanas. That is where we spent most of our days catching the sun rays and relaxing. The Redbury also offers beach services, like complimentary chairs/towels and exclusive beach access.
DINING
Cleo is a mediterranean restaurant located on the first floor of The Redbury and is open for breakfast/brunch, happy hour and dinner. We ordered few plates to share and all of them were authentically unique and delicious. My favorites were the Babaganoush and the Moussaka. For meat lovers I would suggest ordering Kebabs which includes 3 types of meat of your choice. Make sure not to skip a dessert because its not only beautifully made but also finger licking good!
If you are looking for a great hotel in the heart of South beach with beach access, beautiful rooftop and a bohemian feel- The Redbury is the perfect choice!
CHECKING IN: FOUR SEASONS RESORT ORLANDO
September 4, 2019
For the end of the summer 2019 we headed to Orlando for our semi annual fun trip with Sophie. This time we stayed at the lakeside Four Seasons Resort which was one of the dreamiest places we visited!
OVERVIEW
The AAA Diamond Resort has an exclusive Golf and Sports Club of Orlando and is located close to the DISNEY theme parks like Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Moreover, when you stay at Four Seasons Orlando you get an access to Extra Magic Hours and Disney FASTPASS!
ROOMS
We stayed at the Park View Suite which had a living room and a separate bedroom adjacent to the huge private balcony where you can enjoy the view of the resort and the nightly fireworks at Magic Kingdom. The room has an extensive closet and marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub.
I loved their unique features of the room, like in-mirror television in the master bathroom and the on-demand wine system in the living room where you can pour your favorite wine by the glass (for a fee). The resort also offers a complimentary turn down service as well as in-room dining.
POOLS
The most impressive thing about Four Seasons Resort Orlando was the 5-acre of water park with different pools for both kids and adults.
Oasis adult-only pool: when Sophie spent time at the Kids camp we spent our time at this place. With luxury cabanas, infinity lap pool, jacuzzi with a view and a tranquil atmosphere- it was our favorite place to relax and unwind.
Splash-zone: Sophie’s favorite place to splash and have fun with other kids. Here you can also find the access to water slides which were never too crowded and were a perfect size for both older and younger kids.
Lazy River: a pool where both kids and adults can have a great time! There are several points of entry where complimentary adult and kids floats wait for you in the water.
Zero-entry pool: I found it to be the most popular one. This infinity pool is the biggest of all and had the most lounge chairs available. The big screen tv by the side of the pool offers kids cartoons like “Finding Dory” twice a day, weather permitting.
The staff at each pool are so attentive: from setting up lounge chairs to offering jars of iced water and complimentary snacks throughout the day and assisting everyone with poolside food and beverage orders.
DINING
Ravello Character breakfast: this modern Italian restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating offers delicious buffet-style breakfast as well as fresh house-made pizzas and pastas. Twice a week they offer “Good morning breakfast with Goofy and his pals” which is a popular dining experience so make sure to reserve a table in advance. I have never seen Sophie so happy and involved during any type of dining experience! Kids favorite characters, like Minnie & Mickey Mouse and Goofy frequently stop by each table to say hello, offer a hug and to take photos. It always ends with a “mini show” where they invite everyone to dance and sing together while waving napkins up in the air.
Capa: the rooftop restaurant and bar with an outdoor terrace and a very elegant dining room. The beautiful restaurant is Spanish- influenced with its decor, authentic tapas and a guitarist who plays Spanish tunes in the lounge makes it such a romantic setting. They also serve wood-grilled signature steaks, Florida fresh seafood and exquisite desserts.
What to order: from raw bar I recommend- Ceviche, from tapas- Datiles, the Chef’s selection of Artisan cheeses (meat or cheese platters paired with sauces and specialty breads/crackers) is great for sharing. As for dessert, you can’t go wrong with anything you pick but my favorite was la Crema de Coco.
Casual settings at the Four Seasons Orlando include:
PB & G- lakefront platform with a wide variety of familiar foods and refreshments from the casual pool bar and grill.
Plancha- lakeside restaurant serving a mix of American clubhouse favorites and Cuban- inspired dishes.
The lobby bar- great for cocktails and lounge atmosphere where you can also order bar bites, enticing entrees and sweet specialties.
Lickety Split- a small cafe serving coffee, sandwiches, pastries and gelato.
SPA
The Spa great place to unwind and spend few hours away from reality. High-tech showers, outdoor and indoor relaxation areas and complimentary water, hot & iced tea with snacks are some of the features of this spa. I had their Radiance Facial that was so nourishing and made my skin glow.
The hair salon at the Spa offers magical moments for kids where they transform them into their favorite princesses or knights during this magical makeover.
This kids camp was one of the best complimentary features of the resort. It is available daily to kids from 4-12 years old and I could barely get my daughter to leave! It is located in a large house with its own interactive volcano, indoor and outdoor playground and a variety of princesses dresses to try on. Their daily program includes scavenger hunt, swimming, drawing and interactive play.
AROUND THE RESORT
Enjoy complimentary shuttle from the resort to Disney Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios. The staff at the Four Seasons Resort can help you with purchasing tickets or planning a private VIP tour guide.
This trip we decided to visit SeaWorld for the first time. We loved all the animal exhibitions and shows as well as their new kids favorite Sesame Street. My favorite experiences were: One Ocean show with killer whales, Dolphin Days show and Antarctica- Empire of the Penguin (habitat). Make sure to stop for lunch at the Sharks Underwater Grill as their giant shark tank as decor makes you feel like you are dining underwater!
We had such an amazing time staying at Four Seasons Orlando Resort. This destination resort is fun for the whole family with exciting activities, the highest level of luxury and the best service.
August 23, 2019
CHECKING IN: THE PERRY HOTEL, KEY WEST
Key West, FL has always been one of my favorite spots to visit. This small town is full of charm, colorful streets and the best seafood so the 4 hour drive from Miami is totally worth it!
We normally stay in the Old town, which can get a little busy and noisy during the evenings so this time we decided to stay on the Stock Island which is about 15 min drive from the Old town Key West.
The Perry Hotel is a boutique hotel that has only been open for 2 years. It is situated by the most charming marina village and has a very laid-back atmosphere to get you quickly into relaxing mode. I love how they offer complimentary valet or self parking, a shuttle service to the Old Key West and a welcome glass of champagne at check-in!
ROOMS
The rooms are very spacious and all have oversized balconies, contemporary furnishings and rustic touches. We stayed at the Saltwater Studio which is great for families because it comes with a sleeper sofa! The Perry Hotel is dog friendly (with two dog parks and puppy welcome gifts) so feel free to bring your pup along with you!
POOL
With the beautiful palm trees, igloo style cabanas and colorful hammocks, the pool area of the Perry Hotel is anything but boring. Cool off at the pool, play on-site games, toast marshmallows by the fire pit or simply order food poolside while suntanning.
FOOD
Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar– great for fresh seafood, like oysters, tuna tartare and ceviche. We got the The Commodore Tower for Two, which had fresh shrimps, oysters, stone crab claws on the ice along with two types of ceviche and different dipping sauces.
During the Happy Hour enjoy $5 drinks and appetizers.
On weekends they have live music and on Sundays they host their famous brunch with three buffets, unlimited small plates, unlimited bloody Mary’s or mimosas and live music!
Salty Oyster– a dockside bar & grill where you can enjoy tasty drinks, wraps and sandwiches and comfortable atmosphere. They are just steps away from the pool so you can order poolside.
OLD TOWN, KEY WEST
Rent scooters from The Perry Hotel or enjoy their complimentary shuttle to Old town, Key West to enjoy some fun activities:
- Go shopping on Duval St
- Watch a movie at the retro Tropic Theatre
- Rent jet-ski
- Visit the Southernmost Point
- Visit the Ernest Hemingway house & museum
- Order lobster roll at Dj’s Clam Shack
- Try the best key lime pie in Blue Heaven restaurant
- Watch street shows and art at Mallory Square
- Catch the sunset at the Sunset Pier
- Take lots of photos!
With so much to do and see in Old town Key West, it’s always great to come back to the Perry Hotel to relax and escape the busy town.
August 12, 2019
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN JACKSONVILLE, FL
A couple of weeks ago I drove up to Jacksonville, FL (about 5 hour drive from Miami) to meet with other influencers and photographers and explore Jacksonville’s tourist attractions as well as local hang out spots with Visit Jacksonville. Since moving to Florida 5 years ago, I have traveled to many popular destinations but this was my first time in Jacksonville so I wanted to share fun facts as well as top 10 things to do in the city.
Jax, as locals call it, is the largest city in the continental USA and ranks tenth on the list of US cities with the youngest population. The city has more parks and waterways than any other city in Florida, and has unique new restaurants, historic neighborhoods, local shops and long beaches filled with local surfers, visitors and families.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Palms is a small motor court hotel, established in 1947 and renovated into modern, beachside hotel with a bohemian vibe. It’s only three blocks from the beach making it an ideal place to stay when in town. Some weekends they have live bands perform in their courtyard, making it an ideal place to stay and party with the locals.
MUST DO ACTIVITIES IN JAX
1.GO TUK’N
Explore local neighborhoods and beaches in the fun three-wheeled electric vehicle. Feel the open Florida air with a 360-degree view while stoping at several breweries for cocktails.
This was high on my bucket list so waking up at 6 am was well worth it! The teachers from Jax Surf and Paddle will have you connected with nature in no time, after which you can cool off in the ocean while paddle boarding. Tip: make sure to wear your sunblock and bring sunglasses.
3. KINGSLEY PLANTATION/ KAYAK THE MARSHES
With 6,000 years of human history and 43,000 acres of Timucuan Ecological preserve this National Park is a must visit. Get a tour or explore on your own the grounds which include the slave quarters, barn, plantation house as well as the interpretive garden. If you feel adventurous, go kayak the marshes to see the rare glimpse of Old Florida with its wildlife and diverse habitat.
4. TREAT YOURSELF AT ONE OCEAN RESORT & SPA
With busy days exploring, it is nice to lay back and relax (and maybe nap) while getting an oxygen facial treatment or a deep tissue massage. The One Ocean Resort & Spa is one of the Jacksonville’s upscale oceanfront resort and their full service spa offers ocean views with fruits & snacks bar and a glass of wine or champaign at the end of your treatment. Enjoy the pool or order food by the beach after your visit to have a relaxing spa day experience.
5. DOWNTOWN HISTORY & ART WALKING TOUR
Jax is one of Florida’s oldest and most historic Downtown where you can find funky street art, walk around the river and visit Hemming Park. Make sure to bring your camera because there will be many photo ops along the way!
6. CUMMER MUSEUM OF ART & GARDENS
One of Jacksonville’s most visited museums, Cummer Museum has a unique mix of ancient and modern art. Walk through their 2.5 acres of beautiful gardens and end your tour with a cocktail class from their mixologist.
7. BOAT RIDE DOWNTOWN
The best way to see Jacksonville is on the water! We had a blast on this boat ride with Lambs Yacht Center down the St.Johns River. You get to see the Riverside, Ortega and Downtown while sun tanning or chatting with the captain.
8. CHEF MENU DINNER AT AZUREA
For a romantic evening or a gourmet dinner, head over to Azurea which is located in the One Ocean Resort & Spa. The Chef’s menu consists of 5-course meal as well as wine pairing for a truly special night out in Jax! This was one of the best meals I’ve had in years so I highly recommend it.
Another favorite local spot of mine with delicious seafood, hand crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere, this first locally-owned restaurant is a must visit! It is conveniently located in St. Johns Town center, which is Jax’s new premier shopping district.
Locally owned and operated, this Texas style restaurant offers BBQ meat and fun cocktails right by the beach! Their giant kids friendly backyard is also a basecamp for corn hole and events. TIP: their portions are huge so come thirsty and hungry!
If you are looking for casual dining I would also recommend:
Southern Grounds– a local breakfast spot in Neptune Beach with fair trade coffee, omelettes, baked goods and healthy smoothies.
Maple Street Biscuit Company– known for the best biscuits in all Florida. Located in the historic neighborhood of San Marco, they offer delicious options including local coffee. TIP: taste their most popular, the Five and Dime.
The Bread & Board– a deli sandwich shop located in Jax’s Five Points District. They offer salads, sandwich boards as well as baked goods. TIP: the portions here are also big.
Jacksonville being such a different city from the rest of Florida with its culture & history, laid back style and amazing food is a great place to visit for both young people and families!
{this post is made in partnership with Visit Jacksonville. All opinions are my own!}
April 20, 2019
SPRING BREAK AT CABANA BEACH BAY RESORT
Spring break is a great time to visit Orlando, FL as the weather is nice and warm but not humid and the chance of rain is very low. It’s also a great time for families to enjoy fun activities together while the kids are out of school or kindergarten. This year we decided to visit Universal Orlando Cabana Bay Beach Resort, which seemed like a perfect hotel for children.
HOTEL OVERVIEW
When I arrived at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort I fell in love with the retro vibrant vibe with bright colors and color blocking everywhere. As a blogger, I instantly thought how great it will be for taking Instagram photos :p Hotel’s iconic architecture, decor and antique cars parked outside make you feel like you are in 1950’s movie. Even the mannequins in their lobby store have retro hairdos and vintage-look clothes!
Cabana Bay Beach Resort is conveniently located right next to Universal’s biggest attraction- Volcano Bay. In fact, you can book a room with a full view of the water park (as we did) and enjoy easy entrance to Volcano Bay one hour before it opens to public!
ROOMS
All rooms are designed with vibrant, fun colors and most have floor-to-ceiling windows. The family suites also have kitchenettes and microwave for easy at-home cooking. I always go for the view, so if you are like me you need to book one of the viewing rooms in one of the two towers. Room service is available upon request if you desire to have that “breakfast in bed” moment 😉
FOOD
Cabana Bay Resort is an affordable hotel to stay and eat. There are no fancy restaurants but you will find there are LOTS of inexpensive options to dine with your family or take out. Each place is very casual and easy to hang out and not worry about your children running around and disturbing other people.
Bayliner Diner– this is the most convenient place to buy food or eat in one of the comfortable booth tables. The place is like a foodcourt from 1950’s but with modern food like salad bar, Mediterranean food and burgers. It also has a convenience type of corner where you can buy sandwiches and sushi to-go, as well as juices, water and milk. Ice cream and yogurt are also available for purchase along with some yummy toppings.
The Hideaway Bar & Grill and Atomic Tonic– these two bars serve small bites, sandwiches and wraps as well as frozen drinks and alcoholic beverages. Take it poolside or enjoy it in their courtyard while watching one of their flat screen tv’s.
Galaxy Bowl Restaurant– this is actually a bowling alley with a full service restaurant and bar and they serve anything from appetizers and salads to full meals and alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. Enjoy it while playing in one of their lanes or while relaxing at one of their tables.
Swizzle Lounge– is a retro-inspired lobby bar that serves snacks and made-to-order cocktails.
Other- there is a Starbucks inside the resort as well as Delizioso Pizza that is delivered to your hotel room when hunger strikes.
ENTERTAINMENT
The reason I loved Cabana Bay Resort is because there are TONS of activities and entertainment for both kids and adults!
Pools– there are two big pools, one in each courtyard. One pool comes with its own dive tower-themed water slide and the other has a lazy river. Tube purchase and chic cabana rentals are available for guests of the hotel. Both courtyards have a sand beach with activities for kids and some shaded picnic tables.
Throughout the day you can bring your kids to meet their favorite characters in the lobby. Make sure to bring your camera to record this special moment!
Galaxy Bowling– was one of my favorite activities to do in the evenings. With 10 lanes and full service restaurant and bar, it was a popular choice for families. Adjacent to the Galaxy Bowl is an Ace, the arcade center with lots of modern games.
Before sleep we loved spending time at the fire pits and roast marshmallows on fire. Marshmallow kits are available for purchase (around $4-5) a the Bayliner Diner.
VOLCANO BAY
If you are a Florida resident make sure to check out their current offers HERE. Feel free to ask any questions about our stay in the comments below and follow my travels on my Instagram )
xo
March 23, 2019
CHECKING IN: THE DON CESAR, ST.PETE’S BEACH
The Don Cesar pink palace has been on my bucket list since I first came across a photo of it on Instagram years ago. Even though I live in Miami and its only 4 hour drive to St.Pete’s beach, the vibe is very different there.
This historic hotel dates back to 1928 when it first opened doors (back then it was way smaller) on the island (St.Pete’s beach) in the Gulf of Mexico. Over the past century numerous Very Important People have stayed there, such as president Franklin Roosevelt, the family of Bill Clinton and George Bush as well as many artist, singers and actors. If you scroll below to see all the photos you will know why this hotel has been so popular over the years.
The sugary white sands, the beautiful pink color of the Don Cesar, the timeless luxury and a great customer service is what stood out to me the most.
ROOMS
At check-in you are treated to a glass of sparkling rose and you get settled in one of their beautifully decorated and comfortable room or beach suite. The coastal decor of their rooms are beyond charming and elegant. Your windows will either be facing a beautiful pink courtyard (like ours) or the Gulf of Mexico with an option to have the cutest balcony. Room service is available (and very popular) and rooms on the first floor are even pet-friendly!
BEACH/POOL
Since it’s located in the Gulf of Mexico the water is more calm with less waves and the sand is of the whitest color I have ever seen! You can lounge on one of their complimentary chairs with umbrella or on their luxurious cabana (surcharge) facing the water. Kayaks and paddle boards are also available for rent if you feel adventurous.
There are two outdoor heated pools and a jacuzzi settled in the lush area of the hotel. They offer chilled towels, complimentary water and suntan lotion as well fun games and activities throughout the day.
FOOD
No matter where you come from, there is an option even for the most picky eater (like my daughter! ):
Beachcomber Bar & Grill– poolside cafe where you can indulge in burgers, wraps and sandwiches or just order a guilt-free mojito or sangria 🙂 We had shrimp tacos with a side of fries and they were de-li-cious!
Sea porch cafe– a casual spot for the family to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. Oh, and don’t miss out on their bubbly Sunday brunch where you can enjoy champagne or bottomless mimosa bar 😉
The Rowe Bar– one of my favorite beachfront spots for watching sunset while enjoying the fireplace and the sound of the ocean. Here you can order delicious bites as well as hand-crafted cocktails.
Maritana Grille– there is a good reason it’s an award-winning restaurant. The modern, contemporary fusion dishes are small on size but BIG on taste! We had a table next to the salt-water aquarium (that kept my little one busy! haha) and ordered a round of appetizers, which included my favorite foie grass and heirloom gem salad. As for the entree, we decided on the melt-in-the-mouth Duck Confit and my other favorite- Whole butter poached Maine lobster. Let me tell you they taste even better than they sound! For the desert, we ordered Salted caramel Whiskey Gelato and Blackberry goat cheese mousse which we finished in under 2 minutes (yum)!
Uncle Andy’s Ice Cream Parlor– that was my daughter’s favorite place which we HAD to visit at least twice a day ;p So many flavors and toppings will leave anyone happy- no matter what’s your age!
KIDS FRIENDLY
That was one thing I was VERY happy about ha ha. They have programs and activities for kids of any age, outdoor and indoor. Moreover, for kids ages 4-12 they have a Camp Cesar which is like a summer camp where kids can enjoy half or full day programs.
FITNESS & SPA
The 24/7 Fitness Center at the Don Cesar offers a variety of classes & activities like Zumba, pilates or body toning and outdoor classes like water yoga and aerobics. Tip: borrow one of their complimentary bicycles to explore St.Pete’s beach like a local.
If you feel like relaxing after your class, head over to their Spa Oceana where you can enjoy whirlpool baths, aroma-infused steam rooms, herbal teas and a treatment of your choice! The beautiful private rooftop terrace offers views of the Gulf of Mexico and lounge chairs/couches for suntanning and relaxing. Even if you are not staying at the hotel, you can still enjoy a Day Pass for only $36 which gives you access to all the spa facilities and their rooftop terrace!
For your next vacation, make sure to consider the historic Don Cesar, also known as the pink palace and leave me a comment with any questions/feedback below!
xo
December 1, 2018
CHECKING IN: LOEWS ROYAL PACIFIC, UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT
Once a year my family and I take our annual trip to Orlando and visit their famous parks. Now that I have my own baby girl, the trips have become more special and fun! This year we wanted to visit Universal Studios Orlando so we stayed at Loews Royal Pacific Resort as it is a short water taxi away from Universal Orlando attractions.
HOTEL OVERVIEW
When you enter Loews Royal Pacific you are instantly greeted with Aloha and flower lei and you are transformed into the island-like paradise. From Thai colorful umbrellas, floral carpet and decor to outdoor courtyard with elephants the atmosphere of the resort is uniquely serene and positive. We traveled in the middle of November so we got to see some Christmas decorations as well, which was truly a beautiful sight.
ROOMS
We stayed at the Queen room at the Royal Club level. If your budget permits I would highly recommend booking a room on this floor as you get so many perks throughout your stay that it pays itself off! First of all, the room is much nicer (I was told) than the regular room and has nicer view from its large window. Love how even the walls are decorated with floral design inside the room. If you stay at the Royal Club level you will have a full access to the Royal Club lounge where you get these complimentary services:
- Continental breakfast every morning. It has anything from fruits, eggs and sausage to bagels and coffee or pastry of your choice.
- Midday snacks that include peanut butter and jam sandwich, fruits, cheeses and crackers.
- Happy Hour time (my favorite haha) where you enjoy meals like pasta with meat and salad complimented by red or white wine or beer. Hard liquor is also available for surcharge.
- Sweet time which is from 8-9pm that includes a variety of small pastries and coffee/tea before bed.
For me the best part of the Royal Club lounge was the kids play area with tons of games, crayons and tv with cartoons to keep your little ones busy and entertained while you are eating.
FOOD
Island’s Restaurant– continuing the food talk, if you decide to eat at one of the restaurants on the premises you have lots to choose from! We had late breakfast/lunch at their Islands Dining Room everyday where they serve breakfast buffet every morning. They have anything you can think of… from eggs and meat to cereal and pancakes. The fruit bar has all the island fruits to choose from and if you wish to create you own omelette there is an attendant that will make one for you! We chose to eat outside as the weather was very pleasant this time of the year. Oh and kids get balloons every morning so that brightens up everyone’s mood 🙂
On weekends make sure to reserve a table at a beautiful Tahitian Room where they do “Despicable Me Character breakfast” when your table gets a visit from Gru, Margo or Minions and you will get a chance to snap photos with them!
Jake’s American Bar– is a perfect place to meet for a drink and lively entertainment at the end of the day while enjoying their salads, sandwiches, entrees and more!
Orchid Court Sushi Bar– unfortunately we did not get a chance to eat at this place but the menu looked impressive! From asian- inspired desserts to Tahitian cocktails, this place is definitely on our list for our next visit.
Wantilan Luau– their weekly Polynesian food and entertainment will give you the authentic vibes of an exotic island. With hula and fire dancers at the show, this special dinner is not to be missed!
POOL
Every day after returning from the parks we liked to lounge by the lagoon-style swimming pool and sink our toes into the sandy beach. Large water play area, kid’s pool with floats and pong pong table are just some of the children’s activities that will keep them happy and busy! There are many poolside cabanas available for rent and you can also order food/drinks to be brought to your poolside chair.
UNIVERSAL ORLANDO
The best thing about the hotel is that its adjacent to all the attractions at Universal Orlando. The very comfortable water taxi will take you (complimentary) from Loews Royal Pacific to the City Walk. That was our favorite thing to do during the evening- strolling through there, taking photos next to the Universal Sign, trying out deserts at the Chocolate Emporium or the famous Voodoo Doughnuts.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
One of my favorite parks to date as there is so much to do and see at any age. From the streets of Beverly Hills to the streets of London you will be transported to another World…the Wizard World of Harry Potter! My daughter loved the kids area the most (dah!) with the Curious George town and water play and the biggest doughnuts at the Lard Lad by Springfield, home of the Simpsons.
*Thank you Universal Resorts Orlando for hosting our trip and we cannot wait for our next visit!*
As always, feel free to leave me a comment/question below and follow me on Instagram 🙂
xo
November 7, 2017
FALL GETAWAY TO OMNI GROVE PARK INN, ASHEVILLE NC
Living in Miami, FL we don’t get seasons and beautiful fall scenery, so you can imagine how excited I was to travel to Asheville, North Carolina in search of some fall foliage!
First of all, the city is like something out of a movie- cute houses with white picket fences, mountains backdrop and genuinely the nicest people you will ever meet. And if you are lucky (or unlucky) you spot a bear crossing the street right in front of your car (true story and our shouts of surprise and shock were very real)!
Where To Stay
We had the pleasure of staying at Omni Grove Park Inn, a hotel with over 100 years of history and traditions. The unique rock architecture and mountain views of the hotel is what brings a crowd of guests and visitors in any season.
The first thing that stood out to me was the hospitality and friendliness of their staff.
We had a premium mountain view room and the views did not disappoint. The room was so cozy and cute and the orange color of their pillows and blanket matched so well with the fall foliage outside the window.
The Omni Grove Park Inn hotel is best suited for families, couples and elderly and has many activities and leisures to choose from:
There is nothing better than playing golf with a majestic view of Blue Ridge mountains while breathing in fresh mountain air. The 18- hole golf course was designed by the infamous Donald Ross and played by many PGA stars and even former president Barrack Obama!
For those that just want to relax and unwind, visiting their award winning subterranean Spa facility is a must! In fact, for me this was the most impressive area of the hotel. The 43,000 sq ft spa that is made with cavernous rock walls and tunnels, mineral pools and waterfalls is quite a sight. The peaceful atmosphere complimented by the fiber-optic ceiling stars, underwater music and fire pits will make you want to spend the whole day there! In order to enjoy the spa you need to book a treatment or purchase a day pass in advance. On weekends those services are open to public but Monday- Thursday they are only open for guests of the hotel. Thanks to the cooperation of the staff we managed to take a couple of photos before it was open to public, otherwise, the use of cameras and cell phones are strictly prohibited.
That was my second favorite thing to do 🙂 Each one of their restaurants have all around amazing views of the mountains.
Sunset Terrace is their most popular restaurant and the best place to watch sunset so make sure to book your table in advance if you want to get the best seat on the terrace!
Edison, Craft Ales + Kitchen was our favorite place to sit by the bar and indulge in craft beer and fries while chatting with another friendly waiter. For a more romantic feel make sure to book a table by the fire place or sit on a patio outside.
The Great Hall Bar is a great place to get cocktails after your dinner while enjoying nightly live music or cozying up by the 36-foot fireplace.
With picturesque views and historic venues you can see why Omni Grove Park Inn is a popular place for weddings. In fact, they have a separate reception house with an outdoor area which is transformed into a wedding fairytale. With the mountain backdrop and romantic vibe the hotel is also popular for marriage proposals and even during our short stay we witnessed two couples get engaged!
THINGS TO DO IN ASHEVILLE, NC
Even though Asheville is a small town there are tons of things to do and enjoy:
The town is situated in the mountains so if you like a good hike make sure to take a drive through the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. There are few lookout spots with amazing mountain views but be prepared to walk through 30 min or more trail to get to them. If you have time I recommend stoping at one of their waterfalls to take some beautiful photos. The drive to the top is about 1.5-2 hours so make sure you dedicate a whole day for exploring the mountains.
This is the biggest tourist attraction in Asheville. The beautiful 8000- acre estate was built in 1880s by George Vanderbilt and now offers visitors a tour of their gardens, village and house as well as dining, shopping and wine tasting. The tickets are required for entering and can be purchased in advance through their website.
The nights that you wish to explore the town and visit the restaurants outside of your hotel, you need to head to either College St, Patton Ave or Broadway Street. We only visited a few places but the one that really stood out for me was the Spanish tapas place Curate. The atmosphere, the drinks (try sangria!) and food were outstanding.
I had an amazing time visiting this small town of Asheville, NC and staying at the most beautiful and historic Omni Grove Park Inn hotel and would love to come back again to do more relaxing and exploring. Feel free to leave me a comment below with any questions or feedback and follow my travels on Instagram!
September 15, 2018
BLOGGER’S TRAVEL GUIDE TO SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
San Juan, PR stole my heart not only for its beautiful colorful streets with a lot of history behind them, but also for the nicest people and a great diversity that this small island holds.
WHERE TO STAY
If time permits I would suggest to stay at both the Old City and the Condado (beach) are as they are completely different and both unique!
Old City:
- Villa Herencia Hotel– we stayed in this cute bed and breakfast and let me tell you the photos don’t even do its justice. The beautiful princess canopy beds, the high ceilings, the patio with beds and lounge chairs, the outdoor bath tubs make you feel like you are visiting a small castle in Europe with its preserved beauty and ancient history. Every morning we had our breakfast (which you select upon arrival and includes anything from eggs, cereal and milk, yogurt and toast, coffee or tea) in a beautiful dining room or on a patio overlooking part of the Old City. Surprisingly, It was very affordable and not too busy (we traveled end of May) so a lot of times we had a patio all to ourselves!
- If you are looking for a more upscale (and more expensive) hotel, right next to the Villa Herencia you can find Hotel El Convento. This place is very popular for weddings, celebrations and a more upscale atmosphere. The hotel is big, luxurious and has the most beautiful outdoor pool in the Old City.
Beach:
- Serafina Beach Hotel is the newest and trendiest boutique hotel located in Condado beach, San Juan. All you have to do is google its infinity pool and floor to ceiling windows in the room and I am quite sure you will want to book with them! The hotel is not only beautiful and conveniently located at the beach, it is also so much fun! On weekends they have “pool parties” with dj playing the latest hits and cocktails to make you want to dance. Don’t get me wrong, its not a Miami style of pool party with young college kids getting all drunk and loud because Serafina Beach Hotel is all about class!
WHAT TO SEE
- Old San Juan- take a walk on the colorful streets and stop at their souvenir shops or people watch at one of their outdoor cafes while sipping the original piña colada.
- Castillo San Cristobal- the biggest Spanish fort located in the Old City that offers a “walk down their history lane” and breathtaking views of the coastline.
- Castillo San Felipe del Moro- we didn’t visit this 16th century Spanish fort as we were told it was very similar to Castillo San Cristobal. I would suggest to google both and decide which one you would like to visit.
- Calle Fortaleza Old City- the street located in front of the residence of Governor of Puerto Rico. There is a small market on the street as well as beautiful small umbrellas hanging in the sky which makes a beautiful Instagram photo op 😉
- La Casa Estrecha- the smallest and most narrow house in the World and is recorded in the Guinness book record! What used to be a place where slaves were kept is now being renovated to become a gallery. The combination of pastel colors of the house attract both photographers and bloggers.
- Culebra Island- one of the most popular destinations in Puerto Rico that is just a short boat ride away from San Juan. Unfortunately, we did not make it there but heard so many amazing stories about its turquoise waters and snorkeling paradise!
- Cueva Ventana- another place we wanted to visit but didn’t get the chance. It is a large cave overlooking the valley and the river with the most unique “window” like appearance. Tours are quite costly, approximately $90 per person so if you rent a car at the airport make sure to take a drive on your own and only pay $10 entrance fee.
- El Yunque National Forest- if you are outdoorsy type you will love hiking around this forest and spotting beautiful waterfalls along the way.
WHERE TO EAT
Old City:
- Barrachina Restaurant– the place with original Piña Colada and their national “mofongo” ( dish of deep-fried green plantains mashed together with other ingredients such as pork or seafood). The cocktail was too sweet for my taste but mofongo was one of the best I tried in San Juan!
- Punto de Vista Rooftop Restaurant– great prices on delicious drinks during happy hour and one of the best ceviche I tried in Puerto Rico. The rooftop also offers views of Old City and great for socializing or going on a romantic date.
- Caficultura– one of the best coffees in town. Make sure to try the coconut french toast!
- Señor Paleta– the best homemade ice cream, very instagrammable as well.
El Condado (Beach):
- The Condado area is more upscale and modern so their restaurants offer a less traditional food. We mostly ate healthy acai bowls (Crush juice bar, BaJuice) and yummy crepes at Crepe Maker.
WHERE TO GO OUT
Old City:
- Calle San Sebastian- a long street with all the bars and clubs. Check out “La Factoria” where music video for “Despacito” with Daddy Yankee was filmed. It has few different “hidden” rooms with different type of crowd and music. During the week it is quite slow so make sure to come here on the weekend!
Condado:
- La Placita- the ultimate nightlife area. A huge square with tons of bars and clubs where you can easily bar hop all night long. I suggest you go during the week (we went on Thursday) as the crowd is the best and the area is not too packed. When we arrived on a Friday, you could barely walk through crowds on the streets and bars and the crowd mostly consisted of college kids.
Please do not hesitate to leave a question/comment below and follow me on Instagram!
xo,
June 12, 2018
WEEKEND STAYCATION-MARRIOTT STANTON SOUTH BEACH
The charming decor of newly renovated Marriott Stanton South Beach and the friendliest staff is present within first glance upon arrival. Being a Floridian, I was already used to the ocean and the sun but never have I experienced the true South Beach culture before my stay.
Marriott Stanton is situated in a peaceful and more exclusive side of a Miami Beach, yet it is conveniently located within short distance to all tourist attractions, clubs and bars, making it a perfect spot for both young people and families with kids.
Two weekends ago Marriott Stanton helped me plan the most perfect girls Staycation for me and my friend Iryna. Since I live about 40 minutes away from South Beach, it really felt like a real getaway and a weekend full of endless relaxation.
FOOD
Marriott Stanton has three dining venues on property, all of which offer exotic and unique culinary experience. Whether it was breakfast, lunch, dinner or a coffee break we never felt disappointed.Cur
Baja-inspired restaurant that offers Mexican cuisine and a chill back style with a gorgeous view of palm trees and ocean. You can also enjoy 2 complimentary drinks here that are included in your resort fee.
This restaurant offers authentic Japanese dining which includes caviar topped sushi and savory appetizers . Needless to say, this was my favorite place to eat.
Starbucks
Known to all, a great place to get that large cup of coffee and fresh pastry to go or to sit back and relax while people watching on Ocean Drive.
ROOM
Marriott Stanton‘s guest rooms recently underwent a major makeover. If you reserve the ocean facing guest room be prepared to be wowed by the breathtaking turquoise water views and white sandy beaches!
Not only the rooms are beautiful designed, they are also super comfortable. Here you have the desk for those on business, the laid-back sofa chair and the spa-like bathroom.
In-room dining is available if you feel like spending time on your big comfortable bed while watching a movie or while catching a sunset from your balcony.
PROPERTY
Marriott Stanton is designed with so much personality and warmth. The resort does well accommodating to every type of guest, whether it is a romantic getaway, vacation with kids or a staycation with your friend (like me) there is plenty for you to do!
Romantic Getaway?
Even though Marriott Stanton is a family friendly resort, there are few secluded cabanas on the property that can be used (free of charge) to have more privacy. Need more romance? How about a couples massage at their spa located on the premises.
Dog lover?
Marriott Stanton is actually dog friendly! Each guest room has a big and fluffy dog pillow as well as some treats. Moreover, now until October 31 you can enjoy a waived pet fee. For more information on this deal click here.
Vacationing with kids?
Marriott Stanton offers complimentary bike rentals (up to 2 hours), outdoor pool and whirlpool, as well as a direct beach access where kids can play in the sand and relax in a daybed.
Fitness junkie?
The resort offers 24-hour fitness center as well as complimentary bootcamp classes in the mornings (check dates upon check in).
SPA
Full service Stanton Spa is just unreal. Get your pedicure while sitting in a comfortable chair while sipping green tea or try one of their amazing full body massages or facials.
I was treated to a hot sea shells therapy massage in one of the private rooms. Lava sea shells are used to combine heat and controlled pressure relieving deep-seated muscle tension. This healing and soothing treatment stimulates blood and lymphatic circulation to assist in eliminating lactic acid build-up. For their full spa menu click here.
The staff at the spa and the whole resort was the most helpful, friendly and polite I have encountered in any hotel, especially in South Beach.
As always if you have any questions feel free to leave me a comment below or email me. Thank you for checking out my stay at the Marriott Stanton South Beach and I hope you too can join them soon for an amazing vacation.
Make sure to check out their current deal for your stay, which includes a room upgrade, a $50 resort credit as well as pet amenity and waived fee. For more information on this deal click here.
XOXO,
Oxana
August 7, 2017
KEY WEST TRAVEL GUIDE
I have been to Key West numerous times and every time I visit I fall in love with it even more. The small island is so cozy and picturesque with great amount of delicious food and Bahamian style. After exploring the Island and sampling food from different restaurants I have come up with my recommendations for Key West with my personal favorites below.
GETTING HERE
The easiest way is to drive from Miami to Key West which takes approximately 3.5-4 hours. Another way is getting on a double-decker shuttle bus that leaves Downtown Miami or International Airport Miami that will take you directly to the Island. The fares range from $9-25 and if you travel during the week, the bus will be half empty and you can choose any seat you like. You can book online at https://www.gobuses.com/miami-key-west/.
If you are flying to Key West, I recommend using Expedia.com where they have the best fares to any destination.
GETTING AROUND
The Island of Key West is small in size so the main way of transportation is by foot or renting a bike or scooter from a nearby rental place. If walking and biking is not your thing, you can ride in one of their pink taxi Suv’s or request an Uber to pick you up.
WHERE TO STAY
This luxury resort is located on the beach accessible Historic Old Town side of the Island, so if you are looking for a chill and relaxing getaway this is the place for you! The resort is quite big and offers different types of accommodations located in different Bahamian style cottages. It has 3 pools (one of which is adults-only tranquility pool), 4 tropical bars where you can also order food, lots of oceanside hammocks and lounge chairs as well as beautiful tropical garden pathways. The resort even has its own private pier with lounge chairs where you can suntan with a spectacular views of the Island’s famous sunsets and sunrises. The Southernmost Beach Resort is conveniently located within a short walk or bike ride to the touristy Duval Street where you can find many shops, restaurants and bars but also hidden away from the busy streets providing you with a more secluded relaxing atmosphere. What really stood out to me about this resort is the exceptional customer service! You will always find a friendly staff to help you with directions, check on you while you are relaxing at the pool and greet you with a big smile when passing you by.
This Resort is a sister property to the Southernmost Beach Resort yet it is completely different in style. It’s located on the other side of the island right next to the beautiful Marina and Seaport in the epicenter of Key West and a short walk to the long Duval Street. I fell in love with its white & blue design and architecture, spacious and modern rooms with private balconies overlooking resort’s lush gardens, sparkling pools or marina. It also features 3 pools (one of which is also adults-only) and the most stylish and comfortable private cabanas. The bar features colorful stools and delicious drinks and food. They offer happy hour on food and drinks starting at 4pm and I highly recommend trying their innovative tacos and specialty cocktails. I also loved how easy it was to get around from here to walk to the nearby outdoor plazas, sunset pier, dining and nightlife.
WHERE TO EAT
This is a great place for breakfast which offers specialty donuts and a Red Buoy coffee. Here you can try the popular Maple Bourbon with Candied Bacon or the famous Key Lime Pie donuts. Make sure to come before 11 am before they sell out of their most popular choices.
If you are a coffee lover this is the place for you! This coffee stand serves the most authentic and delicious coffee along with some other items on the menu such as sandwiches, salads and smoothies. If you run into the owner of this coffee shop make sure to ask for the story behind the name of this stand!
No trip to the Island is complete without eating some of their famous seafood. This shack is my favorite in Key West and I eat there at least once during each trip! Make sure to try the popular lobster roll or the steamed clams. I always get the lobster roll which has a good amount of lobster within a toasted buttery bun with a side of coleslaw- its utterly delicious!
Tutti Fruitti Juice Bar
This juice stand is popular for tasting one of their delicious smoothies (with or without alcohol) as well as drinks made in the whole pineapple. Refresh yourself with their juices or take them without on your walk through Duval Street.
This place is great for lunch or brunch time. The premises are very artistic and authentic while the food is truly wonderful. Make sure to taste their caribbean shrimp, jamaican chicken and blueberry pancakes. Anything you order from their menu is sure to be full of authentic flavor and presentation.
My favorite outdoor restaurant in Key West! If you have been following me on Instagram (and if you haven’t you should ha ha @o_manzanita) then you know that I love colorful clothes and places. The colorful tables and stools in this place create the most positive and fun atmosphere, while the band playing music at different hours of the day will uplift your spirit. This restaurant also offers the front row seats to Key West famous sunset watching (hence its name!).
This festive bar is a must see! With mostly outdoor seating and band playing at all hours of the day and night you will be amazed by the dollar bills glued to all the walls and ceilings of this bar. It has become a tradition to stick a dollar bill anywhere you see fitting and write a message on it. This way people all over the World connect with each other over a drink and all-american bites by the bar.
xo,
Oxana
April 24, 2017
A DAY AT THE VIZCAYA MUSEUM & GARDENS
Hello babes,
I have been living in Miami for about 3 years and this was my first time visiting the beautiful Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Thus, this post is not just for visitors but for locals like me that have never visited this site. The gorgeous villa is located in Coconut Grove and is a former estate of a wealthy businessman. The amazing landscape and architecture resembles a lot of the Tuscan and Mediterranean styles. Since we don’t have that many historic sites here in Miami this one is very popular with visitors and with the newlyweds having their photographs taken in the garden. The admission is $18 for adults, less for seniors and students with valid ID. You can visit both the villa rooms beautifully decorated in the early 1900’s, the pool grotto and the lavish garden outside along with the tea house room and fountains. Take a break at their Cafe besides the pool and try their signature dish- the Vizcaya burger (you will not regret!). Then stroll around the water path where you can spot the huge lizards strolling beside you and watch erratic swimming of local fishes. If you are into hiking you can find numerous trails just outside of the museum. Plan to spend a full day there if you want to experience all of the above, otherwise prepare to spend a couple of hours if only visiting the museum and gardens.
xo
March 9, 2017
ISLAMORADA GETAWAY
Hello lovelies,
Last weekend my family and I took a quick trip to Islamorada. Its about 2 hour drive south from Miami and is perfect for those who want to have a quick getaway and don’t want to spend 4 hours driving all the way to Key West. It is also great for families as they have plenty of activities for kids.
1. WHERE TO STAY
There are many resorts and small boutique hotels for you to choose from. Since the island is very small they all have pretty much the same beach and the ocean views. The only difference is what your resort has to offer. I have stayed in 2 different hotels there that I think worth mentioning since they are completely different. One was Cheeca Lodge & Spa where we stayed for my birthday last summer. It is beautiful older resort with charming decor, lush gardens and 2 pools for you to choose from (one is for families and one is adults only). There is also a tiki bar and water sports rentals such as paddle boards and canoes. The thing that I loved the most was the room. We wanted to splurge a little and got us a room with a private jacuzzi tub out on our patio with the view of their gardens ( you can choose an ocean view room).
This time we stayed in a newly renovated Amara Cay Resort. It is way smaller with only one pool and no jacuzzi tubs on the balconies nor in the pool area (bummer!). However, the lobby of the hotel has amazing wooden cabin inspired decor. They even have hanging wooden swings which are as much fun for adults as they are for kids.
2. WHAT TO DO
Like any small island the activities are water sports, pool lounging and drinking at the bar! If you got kids, you can go to the Theater of the Sea which is the marine mammal park where you can also swim with dolphins. There are few antique stores to pass the time and grab something unique and memorable for your home.
3. WHERE TO EAT
Most of the restaurants there offer seafood and yummy and more affordable lobster dishes. My favorite place to go to is the cutest and colorful “Pierre’s“. Sit at one of their outside tables on the white sandy beach and indulge in their specialty- the yummiest crab cakes I have tried. They offer live music on weekends and some week nights and happy hour every Wednesday 🙂
xo
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