Tag: vacation

  • The #1 Romantic Place of 2019 

    The #1 Romantic Place of 2019 

    Why It Should Be Your Next Getaway

    If you and your partner are planning a getaway, it can be tough to pick a place despite all the fantastic recommendations from friends, family, and my personal favorite-the internet. Of course, you should always circle your planning around your getaway’s best travel time of year, because hello, no one wants a vacation where you’re cooped up all day because there’s a storm raging outside. 

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    The options are infinite, and it can cause some confusion and frustration agreeing on one specific location. 

    So we did it for you. The number one romantic place in the world comes as no shock as it is what the media consistently portrays as La Ville d’amour. With the advice of thousands of weary but satisfied travelers (and I’m guessing lots of voting), here’s why Paris, France is the number one romantic place in the world and should be your next romantic rendezvous.

    First, We Feast

    Where can you find great food, delicious bottles of wine, with a romantic, intimate setting? Pretty much anywhere in Paris. 

    If you’ve ever watched the Luc Besson film La Femme Nikita, then you might be familiar with the astonishing Le Train Bleu restaurant. If you look up, you will be mesmerized by painted scenery ceilings, large sparkling chandeliers, beautifully structured gilded gold, and undoubtedly a sense of close intimacy. If that in itself doesn’t make you feel like you’re in a James Bond film, then take a peek at their menu. 

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    You know it’s incredibly fancy (at least for me) when there’s a roasted leg of lamb on the menu and words you can’t pronounce or ever heard of before. It’s the perfect place to pop the question to a partner or take a trip down memory lane. If it’s a little too extravagant, and cozy-romantic is what you’re aiming for, then 20 Eiffel is more of a right pick. Other than it’s highly rated menu and five-star reviews, the tourist-attracting Eiffel Tower is also in perfect view. 

    Art Majors Paradise

    Picasso, Monet, Delacroix, Rodin, da Vinci, and Dali. 

    What do all these major historical artists have in common? 

    Bingo, they all hail from France, so it’s no wonder it’s home to all their masterpieces. It’s not just the extensive amount of artwork that’s bound to capture your attention, but the museums that resemble mansions that were once homes to art collectors and lovers. 

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    Musée Jacquemart-André is a private home built by Édouard André and Nélie Jacquemart to display their love of the arts. You and your partner can get a glimpse of how wealthy 19th-century Parisians lived, and it’s difficult not to fall in love with the Italian sculptures and eclectic collection of paintings. You can visit the charming cafe that overlooks the courtyard, head to the tea room for a perfect brunch, and lastly-a lavish garden to stroll through hand in hand. If you’re looking for romantic, classy, elegant, and breathtaking, then this hidden gem is a must-see before heading back home. For more romantic museums, click here.

    Where to Stay 

    The most important part of your planning- and what will set the mood of your whole trip from start to finish- is picking a place to stay. Needless to stay, hotels in Paris are expensive. If you’re looking for something with a view-and I mean views (Seine, Eiffel, Notre Dame, the Grand Palais), then look no further than Shangri-La Hotel Paris

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    Yes, it will cost you a pretty penny, but this historic 1896 limestone mansion is a must see-if not stay. Known for its “Pierre-Yves Rochon–designed spaces” and three in-house restaurants, this hotel is a place to explore, indeed. The hotel is set in a very chic residential area, so expect many places to be within walking distance, including Champs-Elysées. If you’re on a budget, then renting out an Airbnb is definitely a better option, and hotels such as these still hold a charming tone and very affordable pricing. 

    Other Endeavors

    Paris is practically overflowing with romantic things to do, so food and museums are just a couple of adventures scratched off the list. The scenery in Paris is jaw-dropping, and the best way to see it all is (that’s right, folks) from the top of the Eiffel Tower. I always thought that was just something you see in movies, but it’s an actual thing!

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    It’s certainly possible and a memory that’s bound to stay with you both till the end of time. If you’re terrified of heights like me, then a cruise down the River Seine is your next best option. You can surprise your loved one with a private cruise, a bottle of champagne, and a breathtaking sunset. You can lay back, relax, and simply enjoy each other’s company. Whether it’s a picnic at the park, a stroll down the street, indulging in legendary french Parisian pastries, or admiring the scenery of Tuileries Garden, the City of Light is the one place to move up your travel bucket list. 

     

     

     

  • Vacation Spots You Don’t Want to Miss This Summer

    Vacation Spots You Don’t Want to Miss This Summer

    The need to travel always seems more notable during the summer season. The kids are off of school, the days drag on, the weather is hotter, and everything just seems more tiring. Plus, if you are not keeping busy, then the words “I am bored” will forever be scarred in your brain. 

    The top picks for summer spots are endless! Really, there are thousands of places that are bound to help you create long-lasting memories. Unfortunately, we could not fit all of them on a list, so here are just a few of our favorites. 

    The Great Barrier Reef (Australia)

    Known as one of the original Seven Wonders of the World, this is easily one of Australia’s biggest tourist attractions! Not only is The Great Barrier Reef the world’s most extensive coral reef system, but it is home to over 6000 species of sea life! While many people swarm here to admire the colorful marine life through snorkeling and diving, there are several other ventures you can take on. If you are not a swimmer, it is no problem; you can admire the beautiful transparent waters by boat or by air! Depending on how adventurous you are feeling, the choice is entirely up to you! Just be sure to plan everything out so you do not miss out on anything while you are here. 

    Barrier Reef Org

    For more information on what The Great Barrier Reef has to offer, click here

    Kruger National Park (South Africa)

    If you are looking to get back in touch with nature and unleash your wild side, then this is the place for you. With options like group safaris, hikes, elephant back riding, camping, fishing, and quad biking, it is impossible to plan out your day with the many offers. You will get the chance to spot all wildlife and explore the park and see things you have only seen on National Geographic.

    Tripsavvy

    It is also a great learning opportunity as you will acquire more about the animals, their lifestyle, and how we can prevent them from becoming extinct. 

    If you need help deciding which activity is right for you, click here

    Colorado Springs (Colorado)

    Even though Colorado Springs is mostly known for its military bases, do not let that distract you from the fact that it is one of the more beautiful states in America. It is home to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and The Broadmoor Seven Falls. So for all my nature lovers, adrenaline junkies, and even photographers, Colorado Springs is a must add to your bucket list. Experience hikes of a lifetime, incredible shots of the breathtaking scenery, and enjoy tours of the Air Force Academy and U.S Olympic Training Center. 

    OutThere Colorado

    For more activities, click here

    It’s not just the free healthcare that’s urging so many people to come to Canada; it’s the jaw-dropping views and endless adventures. 

    Known to many ski enthusiasts as one of the most magnificent ski resorts in the world, Whistler in the summer is rarely heard of. Activities include fishing in the many rivers and lakes, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, zip-lining (not for the faint-hearted), white water rafting, and of course, sightseeing. 

    Tourism Whistler

    It’s no secret that Canada’s scenery is like no other in the world, and its beauty is one of a kind. If you’ve yet had to drive up (or fly) to Canada to enjoy the unforgettable sights, Whistler in the summer is the place to go. 

    For more information on what to do or where to go, click here.

    Amalfi Coast  (Italy)

    Ok, if we’re honest here, you don’t need a specific spot in Italy. Just go to Italy. I mean, c’ mon, everything about Italy brings on emotions you never knew existed (in the best way). But since we are talking about specific destinations, then you must visit the Amalfi Coast in Italy. 

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Viator

    This particular location is not as adventurous as the rest, but you sure as hell can be sure you’ll leave unwound, smiling, and craving more Italy. 

    If you want some beautiful scenery, then head to the north of Amalfi, where the town of Sorrento is located. If you’re an art or history major, you will fall head over heels in love with the town considering its long history. While there are tours of the town, the real gem here is the food. Many restaurants such as Marina Grande offer some of the best seafood you will ever taste while overlooking the Medditerarm. 

    For more ideas on how to spend your vacation at the Amalfi Coast, click here

    San Francisco (California)

    Golden Gate Bridge? Fisherman’s Wharf? Alcatraz Island? Union Square? Art museums? Redwood Forest? Cable cars??

    Pixabay

    Must I go on? You guys must have known San Francisco was going to make the list, because hello, Ghirardelli Square? The best chocolate to ever exist (this is not up for debate). The atmosphere is euphoric, the people are incredible, the food is unforgettable, and you get to ride a bike everywhere! So not only are you enjoying one of the most incredible places in the world, but you’re doing your part in saving our planet! Yay! 

    For a list of things to do in happy San Fran, click here

     

  • No Babysitter, No Babies Yet, Bucket List

    No Babysitter, No Babies Yet, Bucket List

    We get it, you are busy, you are married now, settling in, learning how to compromise, (he wants Will Ferrell movies, you want “Will You Grow up” movies, that are actually called documentaries). You are splitting responsibilities, (you cook and not only do you have “your lists,” you have “our lists…” You have so many lists, even your lists have a list, but making a bucket list as a couple, sans children, is a list worth listing, even if having kids is number one on your “our list”.

    Adding children to your list of “to dos” and actually adding children to your lives is a game changer, because, once they arrive your bucket list turns into something that rhymes with bucket, that starts with an “f” real quick…. Trust me!

    You have little adorably delicious people who are dependent on you, who look up to you for guidance and modelled behavior. They demand your time, your energy, your sleep, your love, your focus, and your attention. And, these little deliciously needy people, decide, at some point, maybe, listed on one of their little to do lists, unbeknownst to you, out of the blue, to stop napping, and that was your only chance of your time. Good luck crossing off your dreams and aspirations, while they are awake.

    You will soon be making decisions that cater to their needs, growth, enjoyment, and development and you would do anything for them, because you love them, more than life itself, and perhaps a little less than the best night’s sleep ever.

    Enjoy your time together, as a married couple, without the responsibility of children, just as you should enjoy every stage of life, because it’s amazing how quickly life happens, changes, and believe me, I know at times it seems that your only purpose in this life is to pay bills and clean up after your spouse, and when you’re not doing the previously mentioned, go out and live a little, love a lot, do what you love, while you can!

    This list isn’t by any means trying to sway you from settling down and starting a family , but rather a motivational list urging you to: Seek out adventure, conquer some conquests and enjoy your time together, before the time becomes 8:30 pm, and that’s way too late to start a movie at that hour…

    Make out, and make love, in places you aren’t supposed to.

    Learn a new skill, together, like surfing, or ballroom dancing.

    Learn a new language together and then travel to that place where that language is spoken

    Go to Vegas for a wild weekend, and bet it all on black 17, it’s not your kids’ tuition after all.

    Go skinny dipping at night

    Appreciate the small things

    (which is a big one) sleeping in, waking up spooning, no one else in your bed sleeping between you, shower together, work out together, take walks together, watch a sunrise together, stay up late together.

    Go on or to a couple only, no kids resort or cruise.

    Take a BIG trip (Europe, Asia, safari in Africa)

    Volunteer together on Christmas Day at your local food pantry or soup kitchen.

     

    Blast music

    regardless of the explicit lyrics, and or put on Howard Stern during your commute in your convertible with two doors, no room for car seats…