Tonight’s experience at Longboat Key Club & Resort was a warm reminder of why I love to travel. Why? Because I drank my way through dinner as I got to know locals who have a membership at the club. Come along for my unedited version of Longboat Key Club. Continue reading
We arrived at Tsasdi Resort in Lakehead, California with high hopes of exploring nearby waterfalls, lakes, and caves. There’s so much to experience in the Lake Shasta area and I never want to miss an opportunity to see or do something new. Once we checked in, though, we completely changed our outlook. Staying at the resort and utilizing the dock was the best way to spend the entire afternoon. We could easily go with the flow and avoid a schedule completely. Continue reading
After a 13 hour flight to Beijing and another 6 hour flight to Phuket, I worried that Athena would be a nightmare to be around today. Actually, if I’m being completely honest, I worried that I would be a nightmare to be around today and then I’d have to deal with a cranky child on top of that. Once again, Athena has shocked me with her positive attitude and ability to cope with long flights and changing time zones. Today was our first day at Renaissance Phuket, Thailand and it was magical. We walked on the beach, swam in our own private pool and the resort pools, played at the kids club and tasted Thai food. It’s only the first day and we’re jet-legged, but I’m already in love with Renaissance Phuket. Continue reading
Unknowingly, I’ve been creating a bucket list for Athena. She looks at travel destinations and activities with me and her comments and excitement determine a lot more than I realized. Her recent interest in petting, holding, and interacting with animals led to our weekend at Alisal Guest Ranch. At the Alisal Bard Yard, children can be lead on horseback around the corral. I had no idea that children Athena’s age, and even younger, could ride on a horse and the opportunity was too good to pass up. At only 3 hours away from us, Alisal Guest Ranch was a good weekend getaway option. Plus, we could cross riding a horse off Athena’s bucket list; and if it was something she truly enjoyed, we could explore the possibilities in more depth. Continue reading
Athena and I have become swimming pool connoisseurs. We know what works for families and what doesn’t. The Westin Playa Bonita Panama boasts four breathtaking beachfront pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a private white sand beach. Here are five awesome reasons why Westin Playa Bonita is a pool lovers paradise: Continue reading
I love living in Orange County, California. Every day is like being on vacation. The weather is perfect, drinks are cheap, the ocean is only a short drive, or walk, away, and the opportunities for entertainment are bountiful. Sometimes, though, the traffic and trying to find a parking spot can be taxing. With my mother and sister in town, I wanted to show them the natural, peaceful surroundings that southern California has to offer. We packed our bags and headed to Lake Arrowhead Resort for a short, three-day getaway. We arrived to a state of mind; a relaxing calm that rushed over us from the moment we reached the village. Continue reading
Kona Kai is a San Diego Bay treasure, situated at the very tip of Shelter Island, offering captivating marina and bay views. Having recently undergone a $22 million refreshment, I wanted to check out what all the buzz was about at Kona Kai. The warm, alluring, tropical atmosphere is inviting and the casual island luxury creates the perfect, relaxing getaway. Are you in need of a vacation? Join me for a visual getaway. Continue reading
Although we didn’t travel to a new country in February, we did move from North Carolina back to California. While it’s a dream come true, it was exhausting. Packing, unpacking, saying good-bye to friends, traveling, settling in, figuring out a new community, setting up services, and creating a routine for Athena has left us tired and a little stressed. Is it possible that we need a break from our new place already? With empty walls and a few boxes still left to unpack, we decided to get away and leave the rest of the work until next week.
I’ve got the blues; the Caribbean blues. From the ocean, to the rooftop pool, San Juan Water Beach Club Hotel is a turquoise paradise. The entire decor takes its cue from the transparent waters of the Caribbean Sea, a cool mix of blues that swirl, ripple, and cascade throughout the building. Coupled with crisp whites, the blues come alive and keep you in the beach atmosphere even in your room. Continue reading
Trying to explain everything that Atlantis, Paradise Island has to offer in one post would be impossible. Surprises and unique adventures were around every corner. From water slides, marine habitats, adventure currents, nightly entertainment, spas, sports, and a casino, it was important to pick favorites and cover those activities first because the endless adventures would provide a lifetime of entertainment. Follow our Atlantis journey through a series of my favorite photos. Continue reading
Bucket List Publications 