Reasons to Live Large This Year

Adventure is important for self-growth. When we dive into the unknown and push ourselves to explore unfamiliar territories, even in the smallest way, we open ourselves to new possibilities.

Solo travel is just one of the outlets to adventure that I frequent—not only does it teach us about ourselves, it teaches us about this wide, wonderful, exciting, and beautiful world around us.

Everyone has an adventure in mind that maybe they’ve been hesitant to do, or something that would really push their limits. And that’s why I’m here to tell you to GO BIG!

How I Chose to Live Large This Year

This year, I tested my limit by facing two of my biggest fears—depths and heights!

Diving

I’ve been diving in different destinations around the world, but each destination offers a different kind of experience—and safety risks. When I visiting the Hawaiian island of Oahu this past fall, I decided to scuba dive for the first time with sharks, shipwrecks and tropical reefs of the island.

Once I finally let go of my fear and put my trust in myself, it was amazing to look around at the dreamlike, stunning marine world below the surface.

Hiking

To face my fear of heights, I climbed the Stairway to Heaven, a beautiful hike with breathtaking, panoramic vistas. The hike was one of the most challenging I had ever done. At some points, the trail narrowed to barely a foot wide.

On both sides of my feet were steep drop-offs of more than 1,000 feet! To top it all off, the weather is unpredictable and prone to sudden gusts of wind. But I completed the hike and came back more confident and more self-assured than I have ever been.

I know what I am capable of, and I’m excited to see what self-imposed limits I’ll continue to challenge!

The #SeaThePossibilities Challenge

This year, in partnership with Chicken of the Sea, I want to push everyone to to get out of their comfort zone in any shape or form, and take that plunge you’ve been wanting to. I encourage everyone to enter the #SeaThePossibilities Challenge like I did this past year.

The challenge is pretty simple… Seize the day for a chance to win!

To Enter:

1. Choose one of three categories: In the Kitchen, Better Every Day, or Go Big.

2. Capture your story by submitting a video, photo or essay.

3. Share your story on Instagram or Twitter using the #SeaThePossibilities hashtag, and you are entered to win!

The grand prize winner receives $5,000, three winners each month receive $1,000, chosen from 9 monthly winners, and every person who enters the challenge receives a $1.00 off coupon from Chicken of the Sea.

ENTER NOW!

Now, how are you going to Live Large?

This article was written in partnership with Chicken of the Sea. As always, I would never endorse a product I did not believe in. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

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The Ultimate Guide to South Beach, Miami in a Weekend

Famed for its Cuban influences, trendy nightclubs, fresh seafood, beachside hotels and resorts, and the colorful art deco buildings around town, South Beach is a glamorous paradise within Miami.

I spent a few days in South Beach after visiting the Bimini Islands, and got to experience the culture, food and beaches. I was impressed.

Here is my guide to South Beach, Miami in a weekend!

Stay at Miami Beach Edition or Stanton SOBE

The Miami Beach Edition is a sophisticated collection of boutique rooms, suites and bungalows. With a full range of dining options, ice-skating rink, nightclub, movie theatre, pools and bowling alley, you’ll never be bored here.

The hotel also boasts a beautiful spa and the largest beachfront in the city. The on-site restaurant, Matador Room, draws inspiration from Michelin-winning Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s palate.

Don’t miss cocktail hour at the Tropicale, a pool bar with tiki drinks, reggae and snacks.

If the rooms are all booked up at the Edition, head to Marriott Stanton South Beach, a luxury resort right on the water’s edge. With stylish designs and inviting suites, you’ll never want to leave.

Many of the rooms feature balconies, a must for an incredible view of Miami Beach. Dine outdoors at Deco Blue then take a late-night swim in the infinity pools.

Rent a Bike and Explore

Miami is basically one flat biking town, and there’s no better way to explore it than by grabbing a bike by the handles. The Citi Bike program offers locals and visitors a solar-powered bike at an hourly rate.

Just grab a bike and ride it until your time runs out, then dock it, hop on another and you’re good to go! This is a great way to get from place to place in the Miami sun. There are even a couple of guided bike tours by the beach, if you feel like tagging along with a group.

Brunch at The Local House

The Local House is chic seafood grill with a mouthwatering brunch that will keep you coming back for more. Try the caramelized banana pancakes with creme fraiche, braised beef skillet, or crab cake benedict.

Don’t forget to order a signature cocktail to pep you up for the day: you can’t go wrong with an Italian Bloody Mary (mozzarella cheese, anyone?), a pitcher of mimosa, or the delicate Kir Royale.

Shop at Lincoln Road Mall

The Mall at Lincoln Road is a shopper’s paradise—a pedestrians-only strip of boutiques and designer shops. Stop by for anything from Armani to Guess to Swarovski.

While you’re there, grab a tasty lunch of chicken and black beans at Havana 1957, and if it’s Sunday, be sure to check out the fresh fruits and veggies at the Farmer’s Market.

(source)

Coffee at Las Olas Cafe

You can’t visit Miami without trying some local Cuban flavour! Las Olas Cafe serves legendary cups of café in an authentic and laid-back setting.

Order the café con leche y azúcar—think it’s just a coffee with milk and sugar? Think again! Even if you just ate lunch—try a beef or pork empanada while you’re there. You won’t regret it!

Dinner at CVI.CHE

This hip Peruvian restaurant will have your mouth watering even before you take your first bite. This is arguably the best ceviche joint in town, and it’s always packed to the brim with locals and visitors alike.

Ceviche is a simple dish of fish marinated in fresh Chulucanas’ lime juice, cilantro and Arequipan onions—topped with a sauce of your choice.

When prepared right, makes all the difference—and CVI.CHE definitely succeeds in getting it right! Not in the mood for ceviche? Try the Aji de Gallina, shredded chicken topped with Peruvian cream, potatoes and rice.

Hit the Clubs

By far one of SoBe’s top LBGTQ nightclubs, Twist invites locals and tourists from everywhere with world-class DJs and pro dancers. “Never a Cover, Always a Groove,” is the motto, and with seven themed bars and three dance floors there’s no doubt about it—the Groove here is hopping!

Downstairs is all R&B and hiphop and upstairs is techno and house. Drinks start at $10—drop in early before 9pm for the daily two-for-one special.

Another hotspot, billing itself as a “Cocktail Lounge & Music Emporium,” the Electric Pickle is the place to go for that energized, electronic rhythm with a chilled vibe. Inside, it’s dark and welcoming, with an “anything goes” policy.

Named one of the best dance clubs by Rolling Stone, don’t miss this beacon of underground tunes.

Bowling & Ice Skating at Basement

Basement is SoBe’s local “multidimensional entertainment hub,” featuring a nightclub, bowling alley and ice-skating rink. The state-of-the-art soundstage and world-class lighting systems will take you on an unforgettable ride. Bowl with luminescent bowling balls or skate through dramatic lighting effects. Located in the dark cellar of Edition Miami.

Sunset at South Pointe

Top off your fun weekend getaway with a quiet moment at the beach. South Point Park is the best place in Miami to enjoy the sunset. Bring your camera for a late afternoon photoshoot. It‘s a picturesque spot, with walkways, benches, and green spaces that look out over the Gulf.

Ride your bike out on the waterfront or watch passing ships and joggers from the warm sands.

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Travel-Friendly Workouts for Girls on the Go

Let’s face it—travel creates some obstacles to your fitness routine. Who has time for the gym when there’s a foreign cobblestone street calling your name?

But keeping fit on the go doesn’t have to be a chore. You can easily incorporate videos, routines and a quick jog in the park into your daily travel schedule.

Here are my favorite travel-friendly workouts for girls on the go!

Do POUND Fitness

POUND is cardio ‘jam sesh’ inspired but the energizing and heart pumping fun of playing the drums. Using their lightly weighted drumsticks, specifically made for their exercise routines, the workouts transform drumming into an incredibly effective way of working out on the go.

So, toss a few DVDs from POUND’s Rockout Results System in your suitcase. This workout is a quick way to burn calories, strengthen muscles, and sculpt your body for a leaner physique with its yoga and pilates-inspired movements.

Each set includes nine badass workouts, more than 50 recipes, and even a fitness journal for those busy travel days!

Caley Yoga

Stream Yoga Classes

You can do Yoga anywhere by streaming videos from world-class instructors in the comfort of your hotel room. It can be a great way to unwind after a long day, stretch after a long flight, or just relax and get ready for the next day of adventure.

My favorite is Yogaworks’s online collection includes more than 800 classes available 24/7, including of my friend, Caley’s classes!

A subscription is just  $15 a month and comes with a free 14-day trial, so you can test it out!

(source)

Blogilates YouTube Channel

Step into the world of Pilates with the Blogilates YouTube channel—the #1 all-female fitness channel. Blogilates is led by certified fitness instructor Cassey Ho, and you’ll find a variety of videos such as “Wake Up with Me Workout” and “Quick Cardio Booty Blast” to keep your fitness goals on track.

There are so many videos to pick from, I’m sure you’ll find one that will challenge you!

Get Outside!

One of the best ways to explore your new city is by going for a run first thing in the morning. You’re exercising while checking out your new surroundings—all while the rest of the city sleeps. Head over to a large park if there is one, or ask the Front Desk where they would recommend!

It’s the perfect way to get a refreshing workout and explore your temporary home!

Use Free Workout Apps

Here are a few free and popular apps to help you stay fit on the go.

• Nike+ Training Club offers more than 100 workouts by Nike pro athletes and master trainers. You can also track your efforts by number of workouts, minutes, and average calories burned.
• Workout Trainer offers more than a thousand videos from hundreds of instructors. Each video has step-by-step audio instructions to keep you going.
• Get fit with Sworkit by creating your own targeted routine. Select whether you want to build strength, increase flexibility, power through some cardio, or sweat it out doing Pilates—the app will customize a routine of specific exercises designed to help you meet your goal.

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The Best Time to Go to Iceland

When is the best time to go to Iceland? That’s a difficult question to answer. Each season has its perks depending on what you want to see, do and experience!

Iceland is the perfect destination for a first time solo traveler to a family looking to road trip around the island. With friendly locals, stunning scenery and a lively tourism scene, you should experience Iceland at least once in your lifetime.

Here is the run down on the best time to go to Iceland!

Iceland in the Spring

• Months: April to May

In April, Iceland is deep into spring, and the snow blizzards part way to rain, wind, and the occasional sunny day. Days are getting longer, the earth is opening up with a few early blooms.

Gone are the heavy winter storms and the dangerous icy roads—instead the temperature is about 40-50 degrees. This is the season to go if you are looking for green hill slopes, fishing, and golfing.

Festivals: Aldrei for eg sudur Rock Music Festival in Isafjordur & Design March

Iceland in the Summer

• Months: June to August

In June, spring gives way to summer, the best season in terms of fine weather. Temperatures can range from 50-60 degrees and grass is lush and vibrantly green. Horses and sheep freely roam the countryside. In the summer, the midnight sun reaches its peak giving 24 hours of daylight.

On the rare hot day, Icelanders run around in shorts and fire up the barbecue. Iceland in general is more accessible during this time; shops are open later and roads in the highlands are reachable.

This is the height of the tourist season, however, so expect crowds, overbooked hotels, and higher prices.

Summer Highlights: Thjodhatid in Westman Isles & Culture Night in Reykjavik

Iceland in the Fall

• Months: September to November

October heralds the beginning of the Northern Lights season. As cooler temperatures begin to draw closer, people huddle in the cinemas and cafes.

The cities are about with film, art, and music festivals during this time—including the world-famous Iceland Airwaves. Out in the countryside, grasses turn russet and changing the landscape to an unearthly color.

Fall Highlights: Iceland Airwaves & Reykjavik International Film Festival

Iceland in the Winter

• Months: December to April

Winter in Iceland is snow and ice, but Reykjavik enjoys milder temperatures than the rest of the country—only about 31 degrees. Tours book up for the Northern Lights, glacier hiking, and other exciting snow activities.

Some roads will be closed during this time, and it’s not uncommon to hear a nationwide storm alert on the radio. If you’re looking to drive around the island in remote areas, it is best to avoid this season—most people stay indoors to avoid the weather.

Christmas time is a magical week abound with lights, candles, mulled wine, trees, and special Christmas beers brewed just for the holiday.

Winter Highlights: Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival

READ NEXT: Why Your First Solo Trip Should Be to Iceland

 

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Hiking the World’s Most Dangerous Trail

Mt. Huashan is a gorgeous mountain area in Xi’an, China, that enjoys a healthy amount of tourism because of its stunning temples, generous vistas, and notoriously dangerous hike to the summit.

For centuries, the mountain has been a point of pilgrimage for pious monks and devout Taoists. There are five peaks, each with its own attractive details: East Peak is best for the sunrise, the South for the highest altitude, North for its terrace, West for its elegance, and Middle Peak (also known as Jade Lady Peak) for its.

There are three different routes leading to the North Peak which is actually the lowest of the five peaks. The most popular, and traditional trail, is now known as “The Intelligent Take-over Route of Hua Shan”, and was reinforced in early 2000. There is also a cable car line built along this trail, with a second cable car line going up to the West Peak.

From the North Peak, a series of paths rise up more than 984 ft. on the side of the mountain. This was the only trail to go to the four other peaks—Plankwalk in the Sky— and is deemed one of the world’s deadliest hikes.

Here is what I learned hiking the world’s most dangerous trail at Mt. Huashan!

Getting There

The mountain is about 75 miles from Xi’an—catch a high-speed train, normal train, or a bus from Xi’an Railway Station. There are green minibuses that pick you up from the Huashan North Station and drive you to the mountain for free.

One entrance ticket will get you into the peaks scenic area as well as the Xiyue and Jade Spring Temples. Make sure to travel there in late spring or early fall for the best weather and views!

Hiking the Plankwalk in the Sky

The infamous Plankwalk in the Sky is one of the deadliest trails known to man. Travelers make their way through narrow walkways and crumbling staircases up nearly 7,000 feet to the summit.

This experience is not for the physically challenged or the faint of heart! You are fitted with a safety harness and two carabiners that clip you onto a thin safety wire that runs along the hike. Be prepared for narrow and wobbly paths, squeezing space, and insane heights!

So what exactly makes it dangerous? It isn’t the sheer slopes or the small wooden planks, which are the only things preventing you from falling to a violent death thousands of feet below.

The scariest part is the traffic!

Mt. Huashan is such a popular destination that there will likely be an insane amount of people crossing at the same time as you. You’re forced to keep your balance on a small path that somehow accommodates two-way traffic.

The fun just gets better when excited tourists unclip BOTH their carabiners to get around you quicker—or even when they unclip YOUR carabiners so you can pass them easier (what helpful neighbors!). Whatever you do, the important thing is to remain calm and not be pressured by other hikers.

You can try to avoid the majority of crowds by attempting a night hike. Believe it or not, this is still a popular option for those who want to catch the legendary sunrise from East Peak.

Cable Cars

If you don’t fancy a dangerous hike, catch a cable car from Wamiaogou directly to the North Peak (seven to eight minutes). You can also jump on a second car from Donggoukou to West Peak (20 min), and hike a simple 30 to 40 minutes to reach South Peak.

A shorter walk from the West Peak will lead you to a small cave—nothing much to see—and have you back in about 30 minutes.

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Where to Find the Best Food in Copenhagen

I had been to Copenhagen once before in 2008, on what was actually my very first venture in solo travel.  I remember feeling completely liberated, but also undoubtedly a bit scared, nervous and not completely sure of what I was getting myself into.  

My second stint in Copenhagen was one that I initially did intend on going at alone.  What I find often happens these days though, is exactly what happened in this particular instance.  I was having brunch with my cousin, I told her that in two weeks I was jetting off to CPH over the pending Memorial Day weekend, and she looked at me and said “I’ll come.”  

I wasn’t sure if I believed her, but like the true jetsetter she is, she very quickly turned it around and made it happen.  

The food scene in Copenhagen is exceptional, and the creator of many a destination on the international food map.  Noma was born here after all, and from that has spun off hits like Amass, Ralae and Bror. It certainly doesn’t stop there though.  

Here are some of my favorite places to find the best food in Copenhagen!

Atelier September

There are a couple of places around the world that I often find myself thinking of and wishing I could eat at regularly.  Atelier September is more of a cafe than a restaurant, but it’s still one of them.  

It’s housed in a beautiful old antique store that feels French and flirty.  The avocado toast is gorgeous, and the yogurt with granola and fresh berries is a must, too.

Amass

Something about the space and feel of Amass makes you smile before you even take one bite.  And then you do take a bite, and your smile grows even larger.

Amass is in a huge old warehouse on a large plot of land along the water, sprinkled with graffiti and dripping in energy.  Said to represent spontaneity, the tasting menu changes on a daily basis to ensure supreme freshness and seasonality.    

Ved Stranden 10

Ved Stranden is a gorgeous wine bar right alongside the canal.  It’s the perfect place for a mid-day stop when you’re in need of a few drinks or a bite to eat amidst the Danish wandering.  

Manfreds & Vin

Manfreds & Vin was a surprise hit.  Stocked with lowkey undertones, we went in thinking this was going to be one of more casual culinary excursions.  Casual in atmosphere it was, but it was everything but that when it came to the caliber of food.  

This ended up being a standout destination, with dishes prepared simply but with a distinct air of sophistication and flavor.  I loved it.  Go, and you will, too.    

Meyers Bageri and Coffee Collective

My favorite street in all of Copenhagen is called Jaegersborggade in the impossibly cool area of Norrebro.  There are a dozen uber-chic locales here ranging from bars to bakeries to boutiques, all of which are excellent.  

Don’t miss a pastry from Meyers Bageri and a coffee from Coffee Collective!

Bodega

Around the corner from must-see Assistens Cemetery in Norrebro, Bodega is a funky cafe that is home to brunch for the locals.  Find pancakes, sausage and bacon here, and also the more traditional Danish breakfast of cured fish, breads and boiled eggs.  

Torvehallerne

The 60+ stands that comprise this open-air food market range from the famous Grod porridge outpost to Summerbird Chocolate to the recently opened Hija de Sanchez, baby of Noma’s ex-pastry chef Rosio Sanchez.  

Get yourself here quickly, then stay for a while.  

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Natural Feminine Products for Girls on the Go

As a tried and true globetrotter, I know that sometimes you just feel like you need to freshen up. But long travel days, or layovers, can keep you from taking that bubble bath you’re dying for.

For girls on the go, it can be hard to find great travel or toiletries and I’ve long searched for the best feminine products to take with me on the road. Less chemicals, and ingredients as natural as possible is always major criteria for me.

So, I’m happy to say I’ve finally found an amazing brand that encompasses everything I’d want in a brand that cares for down there.

Here are my favorite natural feminine products to take on my travels!

– – Why SweetSpot? – –

SweetSpot Labs‘ line of washes and wipes are made by women, who understand what women want (and need!). Their natural ingredients are specially blended to gently clean, hydrate and soften skin.

All cleansers are coconut-based, with emollient oils of apricot kernels and sunflower to moisten and refresh. Extracts from cucumber, aloe leaf, cranberry, shea butter, pineapple, and jojoba oil count among the ingredients as well.

Their products are just perfect to keep you feeling refreshed, and they are just small and light enough to take with you anywhere—and I mean anywhere.

– – Products – –

The Gentle Washes

Forget about harsh bar soaps and cleansers. SweetSpot soft body washes have a gentle, pH-balanced formula to keep you clean and happy.

The liquid lacks the irritants found in other washes, like glycerin, sulfates, paragons, phthalates, alcohol, gluten, soy and dairy.

Choose from three different scents: a citrusy Grapefruit Verbena, floral Vanilla Blossom, or tropical Neroli Mandarin.

The Wipes

SweetSpot’s wipes and on-the-go wipettes are gynecologist recommended and pH-balanced. They come is the same scents, and their modest size is great to throw in your day bag!

I have a couple in my carry-on toiletries, my day bag, and probably a few randomly floating around my suitcases.

– – Traveling with SweetSpot – –

Like I mentioned, I find that SweetSpot products are great to take traveling. Wipes are awesome for everyday use—I recommend keeping them in your day bag wherever you go.

They’re small enough you can fit in your carry-on. You can use them on a long-haul plane or after, to help you feel your freshest.

Pro tip: bring an extra pair of undies and toothbrush on the airplane, it’ll do wonders, trust me!

Use them after a long day’s hike, or after swimming in the ocean. Bring them on a multi-day hike, or backpacking adventure through the Yosemite wilderness, or while trekking the Inca Trail. 

Many countries don’t have great public restroom facilities or showers, especially in rural areas. They were certainly a lifesaver in China, where it’s BYO toilet paper (and no one told me)!

I always say never be unprepared—so, you might as well be prepared with products that are good for your sweet spot, right?

Shop SweetSpot Labs products, available exclusively at Target!

 

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