The Girl’s Guide to a California Coast Road Trip

A stay in California wouldn’t be complete without a road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway. The iconic Hwy 1 continues along most of the California coast through to Oregon and Washington and can be enjoyed at any pace… whether it’s over the course of 1 day or 2 weeks.

Road trips are one of my favorite ways to travel, and of course I love my Southern California home, so I couldn’t think of a better girl’s getaway than taking this costal road trip!

Here’s the ultimate girls guide to the California Coast road trip!

Stop 1: Los Angeles

Depending on where you start your road trip, you may want to get through LA quickly to avoid traffic during rush hours, however if you want to spend some time in the city I recommend checking out Santa Monica and Venice Beach!

With its manmade canals, strewn about with imported gondolas straight from Italy, Venice Beach evokes a classy yet laid-back vibe.

Venice is the ultimate place to chill with the “in-crowd,” whether you’re sunbathing, shopping, or sightseeing- and you’ll find everything from an amusement pier, miniature steam railroad, boutiques, coffee bars, art galleries and more.

Stop 2: Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is California’s answer to the Riviera. This is where you’ll find stylish Spanish colonial buildings and upscale boutiques set against the dramatic Santa Ynez Mountains.

Be sure to stop by Seven Bar & Kitchen, a tasty roadside bar. Early plates include succulent buttermilk fried chicken, house waffles, fresh egg scrambles, and sausage gravy-stuffed biscuits.

Afterward, the simple, level roads and coastal breezes invite you to explore the town a la bicyclette. Find a retailer on the beachfront and cycle down the Cabrillo Bike Path on the Waterfront.

You’ll find your way to historical State Street, a charming walkway in the heart of Santa Barbara with eclectic adobes and red-tiled roofs. This is the perfect place for a stroll or window-shopping with your girlfriends among unique boutiques, showrooms, souvenir places, cafés, bars, and restaurants.

Stop 3: Solvang

Solvang was settled by Danish farmers, and all of downtown has a sort of faux-Danish vibe—this means lots of cute bakeries and gift shops! Be sure to stop by Mortensen’s Danish Bakery for the freshest pastries and cookies around.

At the Old Danish Fudge Kitchen you can grab goodies to your heart’s delight—caramels, caramel apples, homemade soft pretzels, and fudge in a variety of flavors: Oreo, chocolate with pecans, rocky road, vanilla pecan, and more.

Solvang is also home to several fine wineries, such as the popular Sevtap Winery Tasting Room. Even the locals go here, so you know it’s top notch! Try a sample of merlot, chardonnay, or petit verdot—or take a few bottles home as gifts!

One of my favorite tasting rooms was Sort This Out, with its vintage, pin up theme throughout the shop and wines. Be sure to check it out and chat with the friendly winemakers!

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Stop 4: Pismo Beach

Next, drive down to Pismo Beach, self-dubbed “Clam Capital of the World” because of the Pismo clams, which once were abundant here. You’ll find the heritage of clamming still strong with the annual Clam Festival and the gigantic concrete clam statue on the end of Price Street.

Stop by local landmark Splash Café Pismo Beach for its award-winning clam chowder (so yummy!). More than 30,000 gallons are served at the café per year!

Stop 5: San Luis Obispo

Next up, it’s San Luis Obispo—dreamy, eclectic, trendy SLO. Stop here for the night at Madonna Inn, a whimsical resort with a fairy-tale exterior and modern furnishings, such as a hilltop terrace, heated infinity pool, spa, and 45-foot waterfall.

Downtown SLO is coastal California’s favorite place to shop for artisan creations, art galleries, and specialty wines.

Every Thursday night, six blocks of Higuera Street are closed off for the second largest farmers’ market on the West Coast. With Napa Valley not far away, the number of tasting rooms in downtown SLO is no surprise.

Helpful Tip: I’d recommend filling up your gas tank here so you don’t have to worry about getting stranded for the next leg of the drive!

Stop 6: Morro Bay

Morro Bay is one of the coolest natural landmarks I’ve seen in my travels. The quaint seaside town and surrounding beaches have year-round activities like boating, kayaking, surfing, golfing, hiking and biking. There are tons of cute shops, delicious dining options and many accommodation options.

Don’t miss out on the saltwater taffy!

Stop 7: Big Sur

Continuing along the coastline will take you to Big Sur, roughly 85 miles of stunning Pacific Ocean scenery. If I could stop at every turnout I would have… be sure to leave yourself a day to cruise up the coast because you WILL want to stop for some photo opps!

For literature buffs out there, stop to browse at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, an “arts center, bookstore, and performance venue” dedicated to literary legend Henry Miller.

You’ll also drive through iconic Big Sur landmarks, like Bixby Bridge!

Lastly, be sure to stop off at the Big Sur Bakery, a rustic restaurant that serves beef brisket, banana bread, and wood-fired pizza.

Helpful Tip: Big Sur Bakery has the only gas station for the next 40 miles north, so be sure to fill up if you’re getting low!

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Stop 8: Carmel by the Sea

Carmel is an artist-friendly town famous for its beautiful beach and slice of eccentricity—for example, local law declares that you can’t wear high heels without a permit.

Then hit the 17-Mile Drive, a scenic road past golf courses, mansions, cypress trees, interesting rock formations, and landmarks that sound like they came out of a children’s novel—Lone Cypress, China Rock, Huckleberry Hill, Spanish Bay, and Spyglass Hill.

The ocean views are truly photogenic—go in the afternoon for the clearest horizons.

Stop 9: Monterey

Not far from Carmel, Cannery Row is Monterey’s waterfront shopping and restaurant street. It was made famous in Steinbeck’s eponymous novel in which he described the road as “a poem, a stink, a grating noise, a quality of light, a tone, a habit, a nostalgia, a dream.”

Originally lined with sardine canning factories, the road is now a tourist hub that is home to cinemas, billiards pubs, live music venues, and the fantastic Monterey Bay Aquarium.

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Stop 10: Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk stretches along the coast of the Monterey Bay, a fun place to stop for the afternoon. You can play video games at the arcade, go mini-golfing, play laser tag, and bet at the Casino Fun Center.

There’s also a ton of history here. The famous Giant Dipper rollercoaster and the Looff Carousel are official historical landmarks both worth a ride. You’ll also find the Boardwalk’s Cocoanut Grove events venue, which was featured in the Marx Brothers movie The Cocoanuts and live shows of Benny Goodman and Lionel Hampton.

For good eats, catch a cinnamon morning bun or apple slipper at Kelly’s French Bakery or an avocado-heavy quinoa burger with sweet potato tots at Surfrider Cafe.

Stop 11: San Francisco

It’s down to the last stop—San Francisco! No trip would be complete without a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, the waterfront tourist attraction where you’ll find Ghirardelli Square, Ripley’s Believe it or Not! museum, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and the floating Forbes Island seafood restaurant.

Just south of the Wharf is the Golden Gate Park, were you’ll find the beautiful Conservatory of Flowers, a Victorian-era greenhouse with more than 2,000 species of plants.

Hop on the streetcar to Mission District, the working-class neighborhood that’s gradually built up a reputation as the artist and hipster quarter. It is home to the trendiest restaurants in town and murals that are several blocks long.

If you’ll be staying in the city for a few days, plan to take a trip out of the city to the Marin Headlands for some incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge. I explored and came across the hidden Point Bonita Lighthouse, which I would recommend to anyone looking for a little getaway from the speed of the city.

READ NEXT: 3-Day California Coast Road Trip

 

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Mexico-Inspired Travel Nails

Mexico will always hold a special place in my heart. I love the the diversity of destinations, the friendly locals and the amazing seafood up and down the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. I’m currently spending a few weeks in the Riviera Maya region, soaking up the sun, swimming in cenotes, and eating lots of fresh fruit and delicious food.

To get ready for this trip, I wanted to try out a travel nails style that was inspired by the desert and jungle vibes of Mexico!

When picking a new nail design for this trip, I wanted something that wasn’t too bold, but still had a fun flare to it. I chose a lighter shade of pink for the nail color, and a few shades of green to add the cactus design.

My favorite polish is Zoya Nail Polish because it is the longest wearing, natural nail polish available. All the colors are toluene, formaldehyde, DBP and Camphor Free- can’t ask for anything better!

Shop polish for Mexico-Inspired Travel Nails:

Laurie by ZOYA

Wednesday by ZOYA

Bevin by ZOYA

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The Reality of Traveling as a Couple

If you’ve never traveled with your partner, you’re in for a massive surprise when you finally do. No, we don’t mean a trip from LA to Vegas. What we mean is an extended holiday where you find yourselves in a country neither of you have ever been to, hearing a language you don’t understand, and engaging in activities you’ve never even fathomed.

Kiersten will attest to this wholeheartedly… travel is not all glamour. While we travel a bit differently (as most of our travel is together), the fact remains that the reality is not always what you see on the blog, Instagram, Facebook, or other social media outlet.

Relationships in and of themselves are hard work, so one must expect traveling as a couple to be extremely hard work.

Finding oneself in a challenging situation often changes temperaments and can lead to misunderstandings. Different agendas often lead to calendar conflicts and the inability to visit every site you hoped to see.

We’ve had times where one of us wants to explore an art museum while the other is only interested in finding the best gelato and exploring the city by foot. Be sure to remain flexible and open to each other’s suggestions. It will make for a smoother trip filled with unexpected surprises.

Let’s face it, in life there is good and bad. Without the bad, we don’t know what the good truly is. Without sadness we have no idea what true happiness is. Without stress and challenge we have no appreciation for calm and ease.

So embrace the times you miss that train or get caught walking 2 miles back to your villa in the pouring rain! You may stumble upon the most breathtaking beach you’ve ever seen or discover your new favorite cafe!

The reality of traveling as a couple is the reality of a relationship.

Challenges inevitably arise, and ultimately some couples choose to end their relationships while others like us stand the test us time and emerge stronger, deeper in love, and even better of a team.

There’s no doubt that you will see your partners true colors while on the road and ultimately discover if you are a true match or not.

However, on that same note, the reality of traveling as a couple is the reality of a relationship – and it’s absolutely one of the most rewarding and memorable things you’ll ever do.

Our travels have challenged us, taught us a multitude, and brought us closer in every facet of our relationship (physically, from sharing twin beds, to being emotionally connected on a deeper level).

The bottom line is this: traveling as a couple is imperative to the success, strength, and happiness of any relationship. 90% of our travels have been filled with absolute joy, love, adventure, and are literally the best memories of our lives.

The truth is, looking back on all of those challenging moments, we wouldn’t want it any other way. Those are the moments that add to your story as a couple. Those are the moments that you’ll look back on as the best of your life.

So book a trip with your boyfriend, girlfriend, fiancé, husband, wife, or whatever you call your significant other and go have the time of your life! Face the challenges and grow from the experience.

We have been together for 3 years and we can confidently claim that our travels are our fondest memories. We have done some incredible things together these past few years, but a strong majority of our conversations are about our travel experiences. Life is all about memories and experiences!

So go! Just go!

READ NEXT: 10 Essential Tips for Traveling as a Couple

 

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The Best Time to Go to Bali

A lot of people have some strong opinions when it comes to the best time of year to go to Bali. In fact, most people will tell you that you should always plan your trip to avoid the wet season. I’m not one of those people though! I think that Bali can be enjoyed 365 days a year. Whether you go in the wet season or the dry season, Bali is one of the most amazing destinations on earth.

Here’s the best time to go to Bali!

A Year in Bali

Located barely 500 miles south of the equator, Bali has a distinctly tropical climate. Regardless of the month you visit or where you stay on the island, you are likely to find yourself sitting in weather between 80 and 85 degrees. While it can get a bit cooler, you will rarely need anything more than a light jacket.

While we usually talk about seasons in terms on summer, winter, fall, and spring, the Balinese look at things differently. They only have two times of year: the wet season and the dry season. Both have their pros and cons when it comes to enjoying Bali.

Bali in the Winter & Spring

• Months: Late December – April

The wet season is, of course, wet! The regular rain is what puts people off from visiting Bali during the late winter and spring, but it doesn’t have to be a deal breaker. It is warm year-round so you can enjoy hours in the sun and long afternoons at the beaches.

The rain often moves through with incredible speed. One quick downpour and the clouds can go away for the day. And the rain isn’t all that bad! If you have been in other parts of Asia that experience monsoons—think India and its intense soaks—it is comparatively mild.

Tranquility is the number one reason to come to Bali during the rainy season. You can forget about noisy restaurants and overcrowded beaches. You will have plenty of room to stretch your legs and explore. The beaches are quieter. The streets are less congested. Peace and quiet are yours for the taking!

One of the biggest events of the winter is Nyepi, the Balinese equivalent to New Year’s Eve. Though it’s a great celebration, it is also a time of introspection. A day of silence is celebrated and filled with fasting and meditation. You will never see the island so calm. The dates of Nyepi vary each year. You can check out the 2017 celebration on March 28.

The Bali Spirit Festival, held yearly in March and April, is another great reason to visit Bali in the spring. Unlike anything you have ever seen before, the Bali Spirit festival is a global celebration of world music and well-being.

Winter Highlight: Nyepi Celebration

Spring Highlight: Bali Spirit Festival

Bali in the Summer & Fall

• Months: May – Early December

The dry season is the busiest time of year in Bali. In particular, May through September is the most popular time of year to visit. It is warm and the humidity level is low all summer. While you will definitely see some crowds, you will have idyllic weather and plenty to do.

The annual Bali Arts Festival is held in June and July and it’s a must-see for any art lover. The parade is a true sight to behold and art performances pack the calendar of the Denpasar Arts Center.

Another one of the most popular festivals of summer is the Bali Kite Festival. The iconic yearly event celebrates the traditional art of Balinese kite making. And these are no ordinary nylon kites! Ranging from profound to silly, the kites are a representation of the people of Bali. The dates vary every year and the calendar for 2017 will be out soon.

Last but not least, is the most important festival of the year in Bali: Galungan! The entire island comes together every year for 10 days to celebrate all the Balinese gods descending to earth. The 2016 celebration will run from September 7 to 17.

Summer Highlight: Bali Arts Festival

Fall Highlight: Galungan Festival

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide

 

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Where to Find the Best Food in Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina in my opinion is one of the best cities in the US to plan a weekend getaway in.  The neighborhoods are varied, it’s super manageable size wise, and it feels like a true escape.  

My friends and I spent just two days here that felt in a good way like it was an entire week.  We flew in late on a Friday night, jetted straight from the airport to The Ordinary, and then spent the next 48 hours taking it all in and of course, fueling ourselves with some pretty excellent food as we went.  

We hit the expansive beaches, we wandered the gorgeous historic district, we walked the downtown, and we visited the below restaurants during that fun and memorable weekend.  

Here are my tips to find the best food in Charleston!

The Ordinary

The Ordinary is extraordinary. A completely gutted and reconstructed Bank of America on Charleston’s main drag of King Street, The Ordinary delivers from the moment you walk in, through each of the spectacular courses, right up until the uber friendly staff leave you with their local recommendations as you pay your bill and finish off the last bits of the dessert you just couldn’t say no to ordering.

Our waiter was extremely thorough and knowledgable, and all that he served us was packed full of flavors and gorgeously prepared.

We easily worked our way through several different oysters varieties, blue crab and English pea toast, fresh king salmon with cucumbers and yogurt sauce, two beautiful salads peppered with fresh vegetables, very memorable fried oyster sliders, and perfectly sautéed sugar snap peas.

Easily a favorite meal of the trip.

Hominy Grill

If you want to find a menu with southern staples like fried green tomatoes, shrimp & grits, and biscuits, Hominy Grill will deliver. A homey feeling place with a nice outside seating area and a window to order drinks while you wait, some things were better than others here (A+ to the FGT’s with a side of ranch) but a traditional feeling brunch was had nonetheless.

Chez Nous

Wander down a gravel driveway, find yourself a little gem named Chez Nous. There is no way you can walk into this beautifully converted home, and not feel a little bit of magic.

The setting is quaint, rustic, and European feeling, the menu each day is a variation on two starters, two mains, and two desserts.  If you go for brunch, starting things off with an incredible croissant, pan chocolate, and bread basket is an absolute must.

The Obstinate Daughter

Salty skin, sandy feet, a flushed face, and a huge appetite. That’s all you need to prep for a meal at The Obstinate Daughter. Located out on Sullivan’s Island, about 20 minutes by taxi from downtown CHS, this is a gorgeous restaurant with nautical vibes sprinkled throughout.

The menu was large and diverse, and the dishes come pouring out at a rapid speed once you place your order. Think low country shrimp roll with polenta fries, asparagus crudo, griddled octopus and penne with cauliflower, chili flake, mint and breadcrumbs.

Cocktails are very tasty, too, albeit a bit light on the alcohol content.

Butcher & Bee

The sandwiches are big, tasty, and there’s plenty of them at Butcher & Bee. Written out on a chalkboard to your left when you walk in, the menu shifts daily, always with a choice of about 8-10 eclectic, and also gigantic, creations.

The salads and sides you order come first, and were pretty notable in their own right, inclusive of things like a pita salad with zatar ranch and a delicious kale and peanut coleslaw. The atmosphere, too, was cool and quirky, and completely welcoming.

Read more about Kate’s foodie experiences in Charleston!

 

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Layover Tips for Hamad International Airport in Qatar

Hamad International Airport is a world-class airport in Qatar and a major hub for flights in and out of the Middle East, Southeast Asia and South Africa. With its luxury shopping, day spa, and dining, it’s a great place to spend a layover.

Here’s my quick guide and layover tips for Hamad International Airport!

– Shop –

Pick up the latest fashions and amenities at high-end boutiques, including Chanel,  Bvlgari, Hermès Paris, and Swarovski. Grab a last-minute souvenir at the Marmalade Market (gourmet foods), Bumble Tree (toys and gadgets), or Chocology (fine chocolates).

At the Qatar Duty Free, grab a box of dates to take on your next flight!

– Dine –

There’s a host of restaurants and cafés in the airport. My favorite spot is Qatafr Café, named for the national Qatari flower. Here you can enjoy a welcoming ambiance with oversized chairs and beautiful Moroccan lamps.

The menu offers a selection of mezze-style platters, Moroccan tajines, and Arabic sweets and coffee. For a more international flavor, try the Asian Yum Cha or fresh caviar at Caviar House & Prunier.

– Rest –

If you’re in the airport for a few hours, find a quiet lounge area to relax. The airport offers “quiet rooms,” tranquil spaces with soft lighting and designated male and female sections. Catch up on a few hours’ sleep or simply rest your eyes—your body will thank you later.

– Sleep –

If you want a little more privacy, you can book a few hours at The Airport Hotel, a local four-star hotel located in the passenger terminal. Stays can be as short as five hours.

Choose from basic superior rooms to the all-luxury presidential suite.

You can order room service or hit the gym for a quick workout. Recharging in your own private space can be a lifesaver during those long-haul journeys!

– Refresh –

The Vitality Wellbeing & Fitness Centre is made for layover travelers. The centre’s experts offer aromatherapy, revitalizing massages, cleansing facials, and general ways to revive and rejuvenate the worn-out traveler.

Book a treatment and get free access to the swimming pool, squash court, hydrotherapy tub, and shower room. They also have a day rate (around $35) that grants you access to the center.

The best part? It is located on the fourth floor of The Airport Hotel and is open 24 hours a day—so you don’t have to go far to get rid of your jet lag!

– Connect –

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, so you can plug in and get some work done or watch a movie while you wait. If you don’t have your laptop with you, you can always head to the free internet kiosks, which can be found all over the airport.

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