Murals you can not miss in Nashville
Nashville is filled with a ton of murals. They even have photo tours you can take! Save your money and use my mural tour guide instead.
What Lifts You
Address: 302 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Candy Hearts Mural
Drippy Lips Mural
Heiroglitches Mural
Ticket wall
I Believe In Nashville Mural
Draper James – Nashville
Fendi Caffé, Must or Bust?
I’m going with MUST! @otlmia turned their café into a Fendi Caffé pop up and it’s definitely something to see! The caffé opens at 9am and gets busy fast. Mr. K and I went for lunch and it was delicious. The Caffè features colorful design elements inspired by Fendi’s new summer Vertigo collection, created in collaboration with visual artist Sarah Coleman.
The details you want to know before you go. What was the timeline from start to finish? We prob waited 20mins on line then another 15-20min for our food to come out. TBH I have waited longer in NYC, so that’s not to bad in my opinion for a busy caffé!
How much did we spend and what did we get? We spent about $47 and that is a deal for a full lunch in Miami or anywhere if I am being honest. Now for what we ordered:
1 eggplant panini with plantain chips
1 Nonna sandwich with plantain chips
1 lemonade
1 matcha
The serving size was really good! It was way bigger than I expected it to be and they didn’t skimp on anything. My favorite thing about the caffé itself was the little touches they had, like the Fendi napkins 😍 it was super cute and worth checking out! The only downfall is that you only have until July 6th before they close up shop, so get there fast!!
Location: 40th Street in the center of Miami's Design District
**This is not a permanent fixture the OTLA cafe is known for hosting various brands/themes throughout the year.
Dior Café
Was the Miami Dior Café worth it? Well $129 later I am going to have to say….it was 🤭
I know, I know, I know that is a lot of money for lunch, but it is an experience. I mean I am not going everyday to the Dior café. Besides this is the only Dior Café location in the states, so why not try it out while in Miami?
While I loved my experience here are a few things you need to know before you go:
Don’t go during a holiday or on the weekend you will be waiting in the Miami heat forever 🥵
Do get there early (doors open at 11am, I recommend get there around 10:50am)
Don’t just go up to the café for a photo and bounce without sitting down and ordering something (yes, I saw this happen and it is so rude)I get that it’s expensive, but at least get a coffee.
Do be ready to spend money and Don’t be surprised by the cost of a macaron (it’s $20) 🙃
Okay now that we got that out of the way I also want to share what I got to eat because everything was 100% worth it and delicious:
2 Dior Cappuccino’s
1 fruit plate
1 jador (mini pastry)
2 avocado toasts (so good!)
I left feeling full and really enjoyed the experience I had. It is a small space and their was a line downstairs, but I did not feel rushed by the staff at all. If you are a fashion lover or have been wanting to visit a Dior Café I definitely recommend going to the Miami Design District! Oh an if someone from Dior Café happens to see this, open up shop in NYC please 🙃
Best Places to Eat in Turks & Caicos
This is an absolute MUST! Not only is the food amazing, but the entire ambiance is a total vibe. The ‘van’ is a classic 1974 air-streamer which is just fun in itself, but the location makes this even better! It is nestled in a grove of palm trees and they have an outdoor lounge where you can enjoy your meal.
I highly recommend the churros they were drool worthy, but they also has fun items like buffalo cauliflower and fried fish tacos.
If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind dinning experience then Coco Bistro should be at the top of your list! Set amidst the largest palm grove on the island of Providenciales and close to all resorts. This bistro serves up some of the most unique and delicious meals on the island.
*Reservations: Required for parties of all sizes
Looking for a local coffee shop to grab an iced cappuccino, matcha, a cold coconut maybe some breakfast or lunch?? This is the perfect spot! It’s a short bike ride away from most resorts and the outdoor sitting area gives off Tulum vibes!
This fine dining experience is a complete vibe! The patio is surrounded by palm trees and fairy lights. From the ambiance to the menu everything here is perfection. I highly recommend the lobster spring rolls, greek salad and coconut shrimp tempura appetizers. The grilled filet of mahi mahi as a main and for dessert have the creamy coconut caramel!
*Reservations: Required for parties of all sizes
Covid Protocols when Traveling to Turks & Caicos
*Date 3.28.2021 Please note the date while reading this post things are constantly changing with travel I can only speak to my personal experience.
Traveling these days is not as easy as it used to be, but here are some tips to help you navigate the process a little easier.
First, when traveling to Turks and Caicos you need to set up a profile with their online portal https://tcisafe.com.
Next you will need to get a letter of certificate from your insurance company saying that they cover you if you should contract COVID while out of the country. Please note that this can take a few days to receive and you need to call you insurance company to get that letter. Your insurances card will NOT suffice in this particular situation. If your insurance does not cover you for COVID outside of the states you can pre-purchase insurance here to cover you for your trip https://tcisafe.com/insurance.
You must get a PNR test at Rapid PNR test is valid, but NOT a rapid COVID test, it must be a PNR test. This test must be taken 5-3 days not earlier or later than your outbound flight to the island. This can be tricky due to the high demand of PNR testing some places take 5-7 days for your results to get back. Be sure to do your research on a location for your test well in advance. I went to a Helix Center in Florida and it was an easy process, I received my PNR test back within 24hrs. A friend went to a City MED in New York and received hers back 3 days later.
As soon as your have your insurance and testing back you must apply for TCI Travel authorization https://travelauthorisation.turksandcaicostourism.com/public/. I won’t lie this took a few days to actually process and I also contacted them the Friday before my trip since my flight was that Sunday (they only work Mon-Fri 8am-6pm) Here is the email in case you need it: authorisation@turksandcaicostourism.com.
**Please note that some people get an incorrect test or insurance and they do not get approved. Please make sure you read everything over to avoid that from happening to you.
Once you are approved access to the island be sure to PRINT OUT EVERYTHING! You will need to show your negative test results, insurance and approval to the island multiple times from when you get to the airport to when you land on the island.
I recommend getting to the airport 3 hours early. You will not be able to pre-check for your flight nor will anyone else on your flight due to the agent having to look over your paperwork. This causes longer wait times to check-in. Just and FYI, your paperwork will be checked again before you board by the agent at the terminal.
Once you land you will go through a screening (Temperature) and paperwork check.
You will have to be retested 3 days before you leave the island, so this means if you are there for 3 day you will need to set up with your hotel when you arrive to have your testing done. Most if not all hotels offer this service and it will be on the property. You will get your testing back within minutes and the hotel will put together your outbound package.
I hope this was helpful! I know that it seems like a lot, put TBH I was able to get all of my paperwork together fairly quickly and without any issues. It was also reassuring to know that they have these protocols in order and they did make me feel safer traveling out of the country.
Best pumpkin patches in Rhode Island
458 Greenville Road North Smithfield, RI 02917
*Get the apple cider it is AMAZING
Entrance on Plainfield Pike across from Pippin Orchard Road, Johnston, RI 02919
50 Swan Rd, Smithfield, RI 02917
2150 Scituate Ave, Hope, RI 02831
495 Sumner Brown Rd, Cumberland, RI 02864
522 Gardner Rd, Richmond, RI 02892
Beautiful Fall Foliage in Rhode Island | Newport & Providence.
When you think of states to travel to on the East Coast the see fall foliage most people look over Rhode Island, but Rhode Island has some of the most beautiful fall foliage. I am breaking down the best towns to visit, where to go and when!
Newport, RI
Best time to visit:
Middle peak (mid-October to late October)
Points of interest in Newport:
Providence, RI
Best time to visit:
Early peak (early October to mid-October)
Points of interest in Providence:
Other Towns in Rhode Island to visit
Bristol
Jamestown
Neighborhoods worth Exploring in Boston, Massachusetts.
Boston has some very charming neighborhoods Mr. K and I really enjoyed going around and exploring the area. I have to say that while NYC has charming locations Boston is way more “Hilly” so leave your heels in the car! The neighborhoods also have a lot more old cobble streets that give the city that extra charm. Beware that street parking is extremely hard to come by, so expect to spend time searching or bouncing around parking garages.
Beacon Hill
South end
Back Bay
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Boston, Massachusetts | According to a New York Foodie!
Truth be told I was not WOWED by Bostons food scene. Maybe I am spoiled from living in NY or my travels to Italy, but either way these spots were good enough to make the cut!
Type of food: Seafood
What to order: Clam Chowder, Calamari, and Lobster Roll! Oh and do not skip out on the cornbread they give you when seated, it’s delicious! They also make really good cocktails.
Type of food: Cafe, American
What to order: If you go for brunch order the Meze Breakfast or the Greek style Pancakes. If you are going during autumn give their Winter Squash Spice Latte a try.
Type of food: Seafood
What to order: Start with the Petite Seafood Tower, then the warm spicy king crab roll, order a Fried Lobster & Waffles and do not forget to try a Spiced Apple cocktail!
Type of food: Asian
What to order: Start out with Steamed Vegetable dumplings and Steamed Traditional Beef with Minced Onion buns. Go for the Scallion Lo Mein and Mike's Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
Type of food: Desert
What to order: Hot Chocolate! This location is known for there delicious hot coco. If you like a more bitter and rich coco opt for the dark chocolate. If you have a sweet tooth go for the milk chocolate! As for treats you can not go wrong with any of their deserts, but I really enjoyed their famous chocolate chip cookie.
*Note if you want a cute photo here inside, they are not providing their usual glassware and plating during COVID. Everything comes in paper cups and paper bags instead.
Salem spots not worth spending your time or $$$ at!
The Ouija Board museum. I wanted to LOVE this museum , but it was totally lacking in character and resources. First off it was $10 per a person to go into a room that is the size of a NYC closet and if you are familiar with NYC you get me drift on how small this place was. They had really away boards, but no real information on them. They also did not have an Ouija Board expert or someone who could explain the history of the spooky board game. like I said I wanted to love this museum, but it totally fell flat. Do yourself a favor and save yourself $10 to spend at another location.
The Wand Shop. While you do feel like you are transported into Harry Potter for a moment, it is kind of pointless. Unless you want a wand for your magical spells or to feel like you stepped into a shop in Diagon Alley.
Hocus Pocus Tours! There really isn’t a need to go on a hocus pocus tour unless you are a complete diehard fan of the cult classic. You can find all of the popular film locations here in my E-Book! This way you can go at your convenience and stay as long as you like.
How to Break from the Crowds During Spooky Season in Salem
While Salem is packed with crowds during spooky szn. You can break away from the crowds and explore surrounding areas that are just as rich with history and spooky of course!
Head to Marblehead, MA just 10mins outside of Salem for a bite and some beautiful views. Mr. K and I stopped by Maria's Gourmet for some homemade empanadas. We took our lunch by the harbor to enjoy the beautiful view and our yummy food!
Marblehead is also home to the famous cemetery scene in Hocus Pocus. You know the one where Max gets his nickname “Hollywood” from classmate and bully “ICE”.
Other Towns worth seeing:
Beverly, MA
Newburyport, MA
Rockport, MA
Haunted locations in Salem
Salem is filled with Haunted locations, but the below are the some spooky spots you can visit while you are in Salem to check out the paranormal activity for yourself!
Turner’s Seafood | 43 Church Street Salem MA 01970: This historic location has housed restaurants for years. The dining landmark is incredibly historic. It is said that Alexander Graham Bell first revealed his plans for the telephone here. The location is also believed to be the former home of Bridget Bishop, the first lady executed for witchcraft in the 1692 witch trials. Locals believe her residual energy still lingers. Visitors have reported seeing a woman in a long white gown floating above the Lyceum building’s main staircase. Her image has been seen in windows and mirrors throughout the building.
Wicked Good Books | 215 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970 It is said that in this Salem bookstore that the books are flying off the shelves—literally! Back in 2017 during the construction work on main street in Salem, human remains were found beneath the building. Apparently, the underground tunnel system connected to an underground warehouse in Derby Square is where two runaway slaves are believed to be entombed. The previous owner unaware of this fact knew he had two spirits in his book store. from hearing giggling to even having an on-going game with them. He would put out books and they would throw them off the shelves for him to pick. After hearing the news he realized the two girls entombed where the girls in his basement and made a child section down there for them to enjoy.
Hawthorne Hotel | 18 Washington Square W, Salem, MA 01970
The hotel was built in 1923, it’s believed that the hotel is built on the site of an apple orchard that was owned by Bridget Bishop, the first victim of the Salem Witch Trials. Guests have often reported smelling apples around the hotel as well as seeing an apparition of a woman roaming the halls.vThe most haunted room is believed to be room # 612. Many guests have reported seeing the figure of a woman standing outside the door. Room 325 is also considered to be a paranormal hotspots, with reports of faucets turning on by themselves, lights flickering, and the sound of a baby crying.
Cinema Salem | 1 E India Square Mall, Salem, MA 01970
Employees who work at the cinema say that ghosts regularly haunt the establishment. When it comes to the identity of the spirits, that information is unknown, but the sightings were so rampant that paranormal investigators and psychics were brought in to take a look! Employees have said to witness a man in black sitting in theater 3. They say he is seen wearing Victorian era clothing, with a top hat and coattails.
Ropes Mansion | 318 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970
AKA the home of Allison in Hocus Pocus! Apparently Ropes Mansion is thought to be the most haunted place in all of Salem. The story goes that tuberculosis look the lives of the Ropes family except for Abigail and Elizabeth. Elizabeth eventual feel ill to tuberculosis leaving Abigail as the only person left in the family to care for her. Elizabeth eventually succumb to the disease leaving Abigail devastated. The loss of her family drove her to insanity, Abigail would spend the rest of her life locked away inside the family mansion. Until her untimely death years later when her dress caught fire while tending to the fire. It is said that her husband was so used to hearing her scream in despair, that he paid no mind to her screams.
Boston Stay Recommendations
Fairmont Copley Plaza
|
138 St James Ave, Boston, MA 02116
Make yourself at home while staying at Fairmont Copley Plaza. Centrally located in Boston, steps from Copley Square. Be sure to take in the view from a rooftop terrace!
XV Beacon Hotel |
15 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108
When you Approach XV Beacon Hotel from the cobbled, gas-lit streets of its Beacon Hill neighborhood, the past becomes tangibly present. This beautiful hotel is perfectly situated in a residential enclave one block north of the Boston Common.
The Envoy Hotel, Autograph Collection |
70 Sleeper St, Boston, MA 02210
Located in the newly emerging Innovation District. This Four-Diamond rated hotel has bold interiors and easy style which is a beautiful contrast to the city’s New England traditions.
Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel |
90 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02108
A luxurious boutique hotel located in downtown Boston, capturing the vitality of Boston’s modern renaissance. When you step outside you will find yourself at the crossroads of three distinct: Beacon Hill, Downtown Crossing and the Financial District.
Revere Hotel Boston Common |
200 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116
Centrally located in Boston, within a 5-minute walk of Charles Playhouse and Boch Center.
5 things you need to know before visiting Salem Massachusetts | 2020 Edition
Visiting Salem is on a lot of peoples bucket list especially going during spooky season. Here are a few things you should know before heading there.
First and far most you need at least 2 days and 1 night to really see everything Salem has to offer. Use your first day to go on tours and learn the history of Salem. Day two you can enjoy yourself and explore the locations you learned about the day before.
IMPORTANT: You do not need to stay in Salem. Boston is only 30 minutes away and is an affordable option. When traveling to Salem in October you are looking at $350 and up per a night where if you opt for Boston you can sang a nice hotel for around $150 a night.
Trust me, you need a reservations for EVERYTHING! Book all of your tours and meals in advance. Things get a bit crazy in Salem and the crowds are intense. I knew well in advance that I wanted to go on a ghost tour, but I waited to book it since you know “2020”, big mistake! I almost missed out on the tour due to everything being booked up far in advance. Another mistake was not making lunch and dinner reservations in advance. Mr. K and I also got a bit hungry when we couldn’t get into a diner for lunch on day 1. Take some time the night before or in the morning to plan out your day and to make your dining reservations.
I highly recommend booking your tours for the first day that you are in Salem. This way you can check out all of the things you learn aka haunted locations and or Salem facts the next day. Mr. K and I really enjoyed our ghost tour and learning about the spooky things that happen around town. We only wish that we went on our first day instead of our last day to go to the haunted shops and see the paranormal activity for ourselves!
Try and go on a week day. If you go on a weekend it will be jam packed with people and the closer you get to Halloween or a holiday like Columbus day where schools are closed you will be in for massive crowds. If you do not mind waiting in line to get into shops, museums and restaurants it’s no big deal, but if you are like me and want to be there during the Halloween season, but not into waiting try going on an “off” day! PS all shops, museums and tours are limited in 2020 due to COVID regulations.
IG worthy Photo locations in Saratoga Springs, NY
The Adelphi Hotel | 365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Starbucks Saratoga springs | 351 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (corner shot)
The Adirondack trust co | 473 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
550 waterfront | 550 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Darling donuts | 441 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (inside by the donut sign)
The Brentwood hotel and bar | 15 Gridley St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Farmers hardware | 35 Maple Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
The inn at five points | 102 Lincoln Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (out front)
June farms | 275 Parker Rd, West Sand Lake, NY 12196
The Pumpkin Stand at Tiashoke Farm | 11822 NYS Route 40 in Easton, NY (cash only)
Buskirks Covered Bridge | 10 Co Rd 59, Buskirk, NY 12028
All Things Pumpkin in Saratoga Springs, NY
What is there not to love about pumpkin? from pretty patches & farm stands to drool worthy pumpkin spice treats. Here are my recommendations for pumpkin everything in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Hanehan Family Pumpkins Saratoga | 223 County Route 67, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Ellms Family Farm | 448 Charlton Rd, Ballston Spa, NY 12020
Uncommon Grounds | 402 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 | Warm up with their pumpkin spice latte.
Sweet Mimi's Cafe & Bakery | 47 Phila St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 | Grab their pumpkin bread and apple crumb cake.
Adirondack Creamery | 217 Edie Rd, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 | It might be chilly out, but you can not miss out on pumpkin pie ice cream!
Kru Coffee | 46 Marion Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 | Kru offers a delicious seasonal pumpkin spice latte.
9 Miles East Farm | 64 Excelsior Ave Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 | Get the pumpkin bar it is so good! They also have mini pumpkin pies and pumpkin bread.
5 places to grab a drink with the girls or for a date night in Saratoga Springs, NY
I love a good gin and tonic and the @hamletandghost mixologist was on point! Order some duck fat fries and enjoy your night! The only recommendation I would make is to sit inside. I explain why on my “Upstate New York” highlight.
Wine lover? Head over to the @thirstyowlsaratoga to enjoy a board for two (gf available) and a bottle of wine while sitting on their porch.
Druthers Brewing Company |
381 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Into beer? Check out @druthersbrewing they have a great selection and an adorable outdoor seating area perfect for warmer autumn nights.
Grab a coffee, a breakfast sandwich and just relax! This spot gets packed, but has plenty of room to sit both inside and outside.
They also have the best pumpkin spice latte that I have ever had and that is saying a lot since I am not a PSL fan.
Matcha, Matcha, Matcha! This establishment has delicious matcha. I love my matcha over ice and so does Mr. K we are somewhat matcha connoisseurs we get a matcha everywhere we go. This was one of our favorite ones that we have had thus far. They also have amazing honey, be sure to grab a pot before you leave.
Things to do in Saratoga Springs, NY during Fall | Including Halloween Activities
1. Fall Foliage | Peak Foliage typically the first two weeks of October
Click here for the best Fall Map to use when planning your getaway.
2. Apple & Pumpkin picking
Apple season typically runs from late August until November and Pumpkin picking from Late September until November.
3. Tons of Spooky Activities! (starting in October) Please look ahead of time as covid may cause changes.
4. Take a day trip to Glen Falls
Glen Falls is similar to Saratoga just 30mins north. They have a nice downtown area with shops & restaurants along with a colorful scenic ride.
5. Check out the local Parks. Here are some of my favorite ones
Saratoga Spa State Park | 19 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Congress Park | 268 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Waterfront Park | 630 Crescent Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Top places to stay in Saratoga Springs, NY from Hotels to B&B’s
The Inn at Five Points |
102 Lincoln Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
My stay at this beautiful old victorian turned B&B was phenomenal. It is located on a corner lot close to everything the surrounding area has to offer. The host was very personable even with a non contact stay during covid. I woke up each day to a goodie bag filled with fresh baked goods and fruit. The interior was cozy and welcoming with attention to detail. This was my first experience staying at a B&B and I would definitely stay again!
The Adelphi Hotel |
365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, 12866
This establishment is located in the heart of Saratoga Springs. You are in walking distance of shops & restaurants.
Saratoga Arms |
497 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Located in downtown Saratoga Springs. Just a walk away from shops & restaurants.
The Nest on Saratoga Lake |
511 NY-9P, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
This establishment is a little further away from downtown, but located on the lake. It is a beautiful choice year round with its scenic views.
Saratoga Casino Hotel |
342 Jefferson St, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Not only is this a hotel, but it is also a casino. It is a great spot for a couples getaway.