If your idea of a perfect night involves a cozy, softly lit room, the warm crackle of a record spinning, and a beautifully crafted cocktail that feels like a piece of art, then you definitely want to check out Press Club. Nestled in Dupont Circle right next to Kramer’s bookstore, this isn't just any DC bar—it’s a charming "listening lounge" that wonderfully combines the retro vibe of a 70s cocktail spot with sleek, modern design. I’ve been eager to visit since they opened, and I’m excited to say I’ve been three months in a row! This place has become my second-favorite bar in DC! It’s the perfect haven for a solo night out or a “girl date”, all while enjoying vinyl records that range from Kanye West to other great artists of the 1970s.

Asheville, North Carolina, is a mountain city that blends art, adventure, and amazing flavor. Known for its creative vibe, craft beer scene, and scenic Blue Ridge backdrop, Asheville offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. That’s why this place has been on my bucket list for years! I was lucky enough to spend a weekend exploring this artsy town, to the point that I almost decided to join a drum circle and never go back to DC! But that’s a story for another time!

Let’s go on an Asheville adventure, shall we?

After a lovely evening in Charleston, I found myself craving some peaceful beach time before heading back to North Carolina for work. Folly Beach is just a quick 30-minute drive from downtown, making it an ideal getaway to a charming, laid-back beach town. It’s bursting with local creativity and vibrant colors, much like Charleston, but with an even more relaxed Southern atmosphere. I’d love to share the two fun places I explored during my short beach visit!

Let’s go on a beach adventure, shall we?

For years, I've heard wonderful things about Charleston, South Carolina. It's been celebrated as one of the most charming and flavorful cities in the South, and I can truly see its colorful charm! I was so happy to take a 24-hour getaway during my work trip to explore it. With its quaint cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively food scene, Charleston continues to welcome visitors eager to enjoy unforgettable cuisine, tasty cocktails, and the warm hospitality that Southern charm offers with elegance.

Let’s go on a Charleston adventure, shall we?

I have visited Fayetteville, North Carolina three times now. It is a small Southern city known for its military history and friendly community. Its historic downtown features unique shops, diverse restaurants, and lively arts venues, creating a charming atmosphere for both visitors and residents. With scenic surroundings and many hidden gems, Fayetteville offers something for everyone, whether you’re there for a day or planning to stay longer.

Let’s go on a North Carolina adventure, shall we?

As I shared in my blog post “When Travel Takes Over Your Travel Plans,” I only had 24 hours in Columbia, South Carolina, but this delightful city really showed off its warm southern charm! If you’re a solo traveler looking for new adventures, Colombia’s laid-back vibe and vibrant culture make it an ideal spot for foodies, music lovers, and weekend explorers to enjoy.

Let’s go on a southern adventure, shall we?

Having traveled internationally for nearly 20 years, I researched each country, learned some of the language, and tried to blend in. However, I made a costly mistake: relying on my regular cell plan for internet, messaging, and calls, paying high rates and hoping for service. Thanks to Sim Local, the best eSIM for fast, reliable travel, I no longer worry about extra fees, slow data, or getting lost!

Let's go on an international adventure, shall we?

Nestled along San Diego's sunny coastline, Ocean Beach (OB) is a lively, relaxed beach town with a friendly bohemian/hippy community. Whether you're here for surfing, exploring quirky shops, or enjoying the laid-back atmosphere, OB warmly welcomes food lovers eager to taste a variety of delicious flavors in a truly unique setting. Take a leisurely walk down Newport Avenue, and you'll find a great selection of must-visit restaurants serving everything from iconic burgers and fresh seafood to tasty Asian-fusion and authentic Mexican dishes—making Ocean Beach an ideal spot for those who love excellent food and a classic Southern California beach vibe. Here are my top 6 favorites you should try!

Let’s go on a tasty food adventure, shall we?

Eager to discover the vibrant heart of San Diego’s nightlife? The Gaslamp Quarter is the lively heartbeat of the city, brimming with energy, rich history, and a wide range of dining choices. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor excited to soak up the lively atmosphere, these four must-visit bars and restaurants promise a memorable night and an authentic taste of Gaslamp’s one-of-a-kind charm.

I honestly found out about this wonderful restaurant, Leila, thanks to another travel blogger I follow on Instagram. I was so excited to visit and experience it myself! Below, I’ll share a bit of its rich history, some helpful tips and tricks to secure a reservation without waiting three months, and reasons why you should check out the amazing $8 million renovation that truly makes you feel like you're dining under the Persian sky!

Let’s go on a Persian adventure, shall we?

Recently, I've been really excited about doing ghost tours while traveling, so when US Ghost Tours invited me to join a tour in San Diego, I gladly accepted—especially since it's such a vibrant city! Below, I’ll share my amazing experience with my fantastic tour guide, what you can expect, and why you might also want to explore the other thrilling tours offered by US Ghost Adventures in San Diego.

Let’s go on a haunted adventure, shall we?

If you've been following me, you already know how much I love outdoor adventures. Many of you have seen me camping and hiking in the mountains. But what you might not know is that my first true love is the ocean. There's just something magical about being on a beach or in the water that makes me feel completely free and alive. Whenever I come back to San Diego, I find myself craving the water—yes, even in January, when it's a bit chilly! To help me stay connected to that free feeling, I’ve partnered with Ocean Beach Surf and Skate (OBSS), who shares my deep passion for the ocean.

Below, I’ll share a little background about them, what you can expect from a surf lesson, and why you should consider booking your own private or group lesson next time you’re in OB!

Let’s going on a surfing adventure, shall we?

Telluride had over 2 weeks of 50-degree weather, no snow for 3 weeks, and is closed due to the ski patrol strike after failed wage negotiations.  Needless to say, it’s been a difficult December in the idyllic mountain town.  Since the ski resort closed on 12/27/2025 with no estimated date to reopen, many people who came to ski may be wondering, “What can I do here?”  Well, I’m here to provide you with some great winter alternatives. 

If you’re in Telluride or Mountain Village and want to stay close or don’t have a car, here are some options to make the most of your time there. 

I always enjoy exploring the brewery scene when I visit small towns or cities, especially in Colorado, which is famous for its fantastic beer. If you're planning a trip to Telluride for the first time, I’d love to recommend a few wonderful breweries to check out during your stay in this charming town. And if you're feeling adventurous, you could even visit all three in one day for a fun brewery bar crawl—it's a great way to enjoy a lively and memorable afternoon in the San Juan Mountains!

I only had about 2.5 full days in Dublin, but I really wanted to take a day trip to see the Cliffs of Moher and Galway, so I booked my ticket through Viator to experience the legendary landscape from the dramatic heights of the Cliffs of Moher to the charming streets of Galway—which was a pleasant surprise!

I highly recommend this adventure since they take care of everything, and if you’re jet-lagged like I was, you’ll have plenty of time to take a quick catnap!

Let’s go on an Irish adventure, shall we?

If you’re searching for a destination that blends the comfort of home with the thrill of travel, especially for a long weekend, Ireland should be your first choice. I recently spent Veterans Day weekend in Dublin, which provided a perfect introduction to Ireland's seasonal magic.

If you want a memorable holiday celebration in Dublin, visit the Guinness Factory at Christmas for a truly magical experience!

I had no idea when I booked my tickets in early November that the entire site would be decorated with Christmas trees, ornaments, and presents. Watching the iconic Guinness Storehouse transform into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and festive music was incredible.

Whether you're a fan of Ireland’s famous stout (I’ll have a pint or two a year) or just looking for holiday cheer, there’s something for everyone. I loved it so much that I did my famous headstand in front of the Christmas display before joining the tour!

Let’s go on a Christmas Guinness adventure, shall we?

Dublin is famous for its lively streets, historic landmarks, and a vibrant food scene that caters to all tastes. From cozy cafés hidden in busy neighborhoods to chic dessert spots, Dublin combines tradition with innovation for food lovers. Whether you’re craving a classic Irish breakfast (my first meal in Dublin) or a rich boozy ice cream (who wouldn't want whiskey in ice cream?), there’s always something new to try.

I was excited to explore a few places since most of my meals were at pubs, which I’ll share here. Below are my top three favorite spots you should visit!

When you think of Ireland, you might picture lush green hills, lively folk music, and smooth Guinness pints—many of which you'll enjoy during this trip! But nothing truly captures Irish culture like a traditional pub.

In Dublin, the capital city, pubs are more than just places to grab a drink; their real charm lies in the atmosphere. They’re warm, inviting spaces where people gather—whether to share a laugh, make new friends, or listen to live music. These spots provide both locals and visitors with a cozy place to unwind, share stories, and savor authentic Irish flavors.

Dublin’s pub scene beautifully combines history with modern energy. Some pubs have been around for centuries, filled with tales of poets and rebels, while newer spots are adding fresh vibrancy to the city’s nightlife. From historic pubs to sleek cocktail bars, there’s definitely something to suit everyone.

Let’s go on an Irish pub crawl, shall we?

San Diego’s vibrant culinary and nightlife scene offers a wide range of experiences for food lovers and cocktail fans. Whether you’re interested in exploring movie history, trying international whiskeys, savoring Italian dishes, enjoying innovative fusion cuisine, or discovering a secret tropical retreat, the city has options for all preferences. Trust me, you won’t lose that loving feeling….