Cabo San Lucas Girls Trip

April 2, 2018

Cabo San Lucas Girls Trip

A couple of weeks ago Kylee (from Whine to Wine) and I put our college drinking faces on and headed down to Mexico for an adult Spring Break adventure. What is an adult Spring break you might ask? Well, it can easily be summed up as an attempt to relive your college glory days during a week that every college girl and boy pushes the party limits. Heading down to Mexico on one of the busiest travel weeks of the entire year might seem like torture to some people but we enjoyed every minute of it and like to think we fit right in.

While there, we had the opportunity to stay at two of the nicest properties in Cabo- Hacienda Beach Club and Pueblo Bonito Pacifica. Both were truly amazing but totally unique to their own. Whether you are going for a bachelorette party, girls weekend or anniversary trip, Cabo will certainly not disappoint!

HACIENDA BEACH CLUB

Cabo San Lucas Girls Trip

First up, was Hacienda Beach Club. This was my second time staying there and personally my favorite if you are looking to be right in the action. It is nestled on Medano Beach which has lots of popular spots including The Office and Mango Deck. It is also walking distance to just about anything and everything you might want to do while in Cabo. The Marina is a short walk from the hotel which is where you would catch a boat to go see the Arches or possibly a sunset cruise. It is also walking distance to tons of good restaurants, bars and other attractions. For being located right in the action, it is extremely quiet and luxurious. It is gated and hands down has the best staff. I do want to mention right off the bat that I left my Aggie ring (one of my most loved and expensive pieces) at this hotel and it was safely returned to me. If that doesn’t speak volumes, I don’t know what does.

While Hacienda is in a great location, you honestly would never have to leave if you didn’t want to. There are two pools- one adult only and one that is kid friendly, all day poolside service, beach access, free internet access, free kayak and paddle boarding, a putting green, an on site restaurant, and so much more. Although after a couple $15 cocktails, I would suggest walking down the beach to The Office or Mango Deck, two very fun places where the drinks are a little more budget friendly.

While pricey, Hacienda is hands down one of the nicest places I have ever stayed. The rooms are beyond spacious (bigger than any apartment I’ve lived in), offer a wrap around balcony that is perfect for drinks on the patio, a surround sound system and a massive kitchen (if you are in to that sort of thing). We enjoyed going down to the lobby for free coffee each morning and then coming back to our balcony to sip on our morning joe with an absolutely incredible view. We actually saw a whale one morning and you will also be able to see the arches in the distance.

Food/Drink/Activity recommendations near by:

Edith’s – Dinner

Bar Esquina – Dinner

The Office – Lunch/Day drinking

Mango Deck – Day drinking

Mandala – Night life (Hacienda will call a cab for you)

Blue Sky Cabo – Boat excursions including sunset cruise to see the arches

Cabo San Lucas Girls Trip

PUEBLO BONITO PACIFICA

Cabo San Lucas Girls Trip

We spent one luxurious day at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica and basked in all of it’s all-inclusive glory. This resort is tucked away off the beaten path outside of downtown Cabo behind two gates! It is an adult’s only property and is perfect for a couple’s or anniversary getaway. If you are heading down to Cabo for a bachelorette or girls trip, read below. This property has everything you would ever need to be pampered including multiple pools, beach cabanas, butlers, top tier food selections, a golf course, the spa and a hotel “dip pool” (a private balcony pool in each hotel suite).

Kylee and I felt like queens for a day and had a hard time leaving the relaxing luxury that Pueblo Bonito Pacifica offered. As this is an all inclusive resort, you have everything at your fingertips so that you never have to leave. The breakfast brunch was by far our favorite and offered hundreds of gourmet options. I’ve honestly never experienced resort style food this good- my plate had everything from crepes to ceviche to creme brûlée! For dinner, we ate at Península Restaurant, their on site newest restaurant that offers a variety of gourmet cuisine. I opted for the seared tuna and holy moly it was beyond good!

One thing to note about Pueblo Bonito Pacifica is that because of the location, the beach is not one that you can play in the water as the waves and low tide are far too dangerous. That being said, the beach is absolutely beautiful and a walk on the beach between cabana sessions is a MUST!

For more outfit inspiration, I have a beach trip packing list here and last year’s adult spring break outfits here.

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Outfits, Travel

4 Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas

March 13, 2018

Sandals | Beach Tee | Jeans | Luggage Set | Passport Holder

My goal when traveling is always comfort with a little bit of chic thrown into the outfit. Because airplanes are always cold, you can almost always find me in a pair of jeans or leggings with a small jacket or cardigan in my carry on. This “Hola Beaches” tee is the perfect festive shirt for any beach vacay. Another favorite of mine is this “O Hey Vacay” tee.

A day at the beach calls for denim cut offs and the most skin bearing top you own. This peplum cami is just $10 and comes in 6 colors! Two other beach necessities are a straw hat and bag. Invest in durable ones that will last you years to come. I’ve had this hat and bag for months and have lasted me through several beach trips so far!

If you are heading somewhere sunny, don’t forget to bring along your favorite swimsuit, cover up, beach bag and sunglasses. I never want to bring my designer shades on vacation because let’s be honest, after a few cocktails, they are usually the first to go. These oversized aviator sunglasses are my favorite everyday glasses and are just $14!

Dress | Wedge Sandals | Clutch | Earrings | Bracelet

I’m convinced almost any dress can be turned into a beach outfit with the right pair of wedges and fun accessories. These wedges are my most recent and best purchase that I expect to wear on every vacation for awhile. They come in black, brown and blush– all are good colors that can go with any outfit and instantly dress up any outfit.

If you are still in need of some vacation outfit inspiration I have an entire page to beach inspired looks. Everything from swimsuits, to beach bags, to summer dresses, find all of the inspiration here!

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Travel

Charleston, SC in 48 Hours

February 23, 2018

Charleston City Guide

Charleston, SC had been on the top of mama and I’s travel list for quite some time and if it’s not on yours already, it should be! You will not find another place that offers so much southern hospitality, charm, history, and good old fashioned comfort food. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend trip because while this charming town has a lot to offer, it is easily done in 48 hours! Sure, there are some restaurants and sights that we didn’t get the chance to try out, but all the more reason to make it an annual trip 🙂 My one piece of advice if you are only staying for 48 hours is to stay somewhere downtown so that everything is within walking distance of your hotel!

W H E R E T O S T A Y

The Restoration Hotel. After several recommendations from friends, we felt like The Restoration Hotel checked off everything on the check list. Cute. Affordable. Great location. Lots of amenities. Coffee and and food choices on site. Did I mention cute?!

When visiting Charleston you have one of two types of choices for hotel options. You can go the old fashioned, vintage southern charm route or you can go for something a bit more modern. We wanted the best of both worlds. The Restoration provided touches of southern charm while still feeling like a luxurious getaway. My personal favorite thing about the aesthetic of the hotel was the exposed brick throughout each room. Not something that you see in Texas!

Not only were the rooms extremely spacious, turn down service is provided, breakfast is brought to your door each morning (in a picnic basket!), there is a cute coffee shop on site, a library to use as you please, and a more than accommodating staff! The Rise is the coffee shop attached to the hotel and dubbed to be “the most Instagrammable shop in Charleston” which I can attest to. The Watch is their rooftop bar and restaurant that draws quite the crowd as it should for it’s view of downtown Charleston, great ambiance, and great food! There is also a spa on site if you would like to treat yourself!

Charleston City Guide

Photography by: N. Mickle

W H E R E T O E A T

B R E A K F A S T/ B R U N C H
- Hominy Grill– Known for their shrimp and grits but I opted but for “Charleston Nasty”- a fried chicken biscuit topped with gravy. The long lines are well worth the wait plus they have an outside drink window while you wait so you can enjoy a mimosa on the patio.
- The Daily– The same owners as Butcher and Bee but we preferred this place. The Daily has a hip vibe and very small menu. That being said, if you want something quick and good, this is the place! I was a huge fan of their avocado toast and blueberry coconut smoothie.
- Husk– I put this on here specifically for brunch because you have to go for the shrimp and grits- oh and the cornbread too! Best shrimp and grits in Charleston and they serve old fashioned cornbread with best flavored butter you’ve ever tasted. If you go for dinner, I’ve been told to sit on the bar side which is a carriage house and has the best burgers!
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit– Most delicious breakfast biscuits ever. If you wanted to do this before a full on brunch or treat yourself to a snack later in the day, you totally could as they are snack sized!
L U N C H/ D I N N E R
- 167 Raw– On the smaller side so I would suggest this place for lunch or an early dinner. They are famous for their oyster bar and lobster roll!
- Cru Cafe– Southern comfort food done right! They certainly have something for everyone. If the weather is nice, they also have a great outdoor seating situation.
- The Watch– If you are staying at the Restoration Hotel then this rooftop restaurant is very convenient! I highly suggest their oysters and scallops. The scallops were the best we had the entire trip!
- 5Church– Hands down our favorite dinner spot and there is no way that I will do it justice. I tried to take pictures but you have to see it to get the full affect. This restaurant is made out of an old church so there are still stained glass windows and the bar is made from an alter. The ceiling is miles high and has words written all over it. If you don’t go here, I can promise you are missing out. We easily hung out here for 4-5 hours! All of their dishes are extremely creative and a true foodie’s delight. I highly suggest the meatballs and scallops.
- Poogan’s Porch– We were so hungry and the food was so good that no pictures were even captured. This little yellow house is right next door to Husk and is everything the reviews made it out to be. Make sure to make a reservation as it is a hopping place. I got the short rib ragu with sweet potato gnocchi and goat cheese and holy cow I’m still dreaming of it!
- The Darling Oyster– If you want oysters, look no further. This cute spot has everything you could ever dream of when it comes to oysters! And since Charleston is right on the water, you haven’t had a fresh oyster until you’ve tried them in Charleston!

W H E R E T O D R I N K

C O F F E E
- The Rise– This is the coffee shop that is attached to the Restoration Hotel and dubbed to be “the most Instagrammable coffee shop in Charleston”. Not only is it cute though, the coffee is dang good. I had it every morning that I was there. I’m not sure how long they will have the Winter Thyme latte but if it is still available when you are there, GET IT.
- Black Tap– We didn’t venture here but I’ve heard it is another super cute coffee shop!
C O C K T A I L S
- Zero George– This hotel is everything you dream of when you think of Charleston. If you aren’t already staying here or coming for dinner, make sure to at least stop by for drinks. They do happy hour prices and you can choose to sit anywhere in the house that you like. My personal favorite spot is outside on the covered balcony.
- The Watch– Even if you don’t make it here for dinner, I’d highly suggest stopping by for at least drinks. The view and cute rooftop are the perfect setting for a pre-dinner cocktail or glass of wine.Dress: Nordstrom | Bag: Urban Outfitters | Jacket: Similar
- The Gin Joint- Such a fun and cozy spot that comes highly recommended. If you like to sip on a fancy cocktail and enjoy a creative atmosphere, this is the place! Make sure to do the bartender’s choice- SO MUCH FUN!
- The Belmont– This bar is AMAZING. They have the best cocktail bar in Charleston and if that didn’t already sell you, they even have homemade poptarts for dessert.

S I G H T S T O S E E

King’s Street– The best shopping in Charleston, seriously. Even if you just want to window shop, this is the place! I suggest starting here and then making your way to The Battery, Waterfront and surrounding neighborhoods. It’s all in walking or biking distance to each other. Top: Nordstrom | Jeans: LOFT | Shoes: Similar | Sunglasses: Raybans
The Battery– Make sure you walk down to The Battery and explore the neighborbood around there. So many cute and historic spots.
Waterfront Park– An ocean view and a beautiful walk around the harbor. There is also a Pineapple fountain that you must see. If you didn’t know, pineapples are a symbol of hospitality and they are all over the place in Charleston!
Rainbow Row– The iconic row of 13 colorful houses. I personally thought it was a little overrated and not as “picture-esque” as it looks but still a cute spot to visit on your walk around Charleston.
Plantations– There are several plantations in Charleston that allow for visitors and each holds a special piece of history. All of them are said to be gorgeous in their own way. Since we only had a few hours, we made the trek to Mount Pleasant to see “The Notebook” house otherwise known as the Boone Hall Plantation. You only need an hour or two to do this but Mount Pleasant is about 20 minutes away from downtown Charleston and can be easily accessed with Uber if you do not have your own car.Top: Target | Leggings: Spanx | Jacket: Similar | Shoes: Nike
Sullivan’s Island– Charleston is home to a few beaches, but if you only have time for one, make sure to hit up Sullivan’s Island! The beach isn’t especially the prettiest but being so close to the ocean, it’s a fun afternoon spot to enjoy the sun. We stopped by The Daily and picked up food/drinks to take down to the beach. Swimsuit: Aerie | Hat: Similar | Sunglasses: Raybans

*This post is done in partnership with The Restoration Hotel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Gift Guides, Travel

10 International Flight Essentials

September 29, 2017

*Click on any of the above images to shop an item*

1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10

If you saw yesterday’s post, then you know that I am currently on a flight home. A 10 hour international flight to be exact! I thought it only fitting to share with you some of the items that I cannot travel without. While a few of these are specific to long, international flights, the majority are items that I take with me every single flight I go on, whether it is 30 minutes or 30 hours. If I leave anything important or helpful off, please let me know!

Comfortable Clothing // While some girls like to get dressed up for the airport, I do not and I think the general public would agree that comfort beats cute when it comes to airport fashion. My go to for a flight is always a good pair of leggings, joggers or sweatpants paired with a cotton tee, cardigan, and tennis shoes. Keep in mind that layers are your best friend when traveling so even if it’s hot outside, I suggest packing a sweater in your carry on for those freezing flights.

Backup Battery // Whether you plan on playing solitaire, rewatching SATC or listening to music, chances are you are going to run down your battery at some point. Having a portable charger is never a bad idea! It will also come in handy throughout your travels. This one is my tried and true favorite.

Empty Water Bottle // This is another good item to bring with you not only for flights, but also for your international travels. Isn’t it crazy to think that water is more expensive than beer in some countries?! Having a refillable water bottle with you will help you save money and keep you hydrated! I am loving this marble cased one that also keeps your water nice and cold.

Good Luggage // It might seem like such an adult thing to spend your money on (and maybe it is!), but it is well worth the money to have a set of luggage that will roll with ease throughout the airport. If you still have a luggage set that does not roll on four wheels, it’s probably time for a new set! Your arms and back will thank you. I purchased the below DVF luggage set over the past year and get compliments on it every single time that I travel.

Warm Socks // There is nothing worse than a case of cold toesies on an airplane! I always pack a pair of fuzzy socks. The best $2 that I have ever spent. If you want to splurge on a pair of “airplane socks” these are the best!

Passport Holder // While yes it makes for cute Instagram photos, it’s actually insanely helpful as it makes it easy to spot in your purse or carry on.

Fresh Face/Breath // I am not sure why but airplanes always make me feel so greasy and gross! I always pack my must have toiletries and make up in my carry on for this very purpose and also because if my luggage doesn’t make it to my final destination for some reason, at least I will have a little piece of sanity. TULA makes the best travel sized toiletries. I use their cleanser, moisturizer and exfloiating mask religiously. Get their discovery kit for 20% off with code ITSALLCHIC. I am also listing some of my favorite travel sized beauty items below.

A Good Book // If you need something to pass the time or if you are like me and an airplane is somehow the only place that you can find the time to read, make sure to pack a good book. I brought along the book Present over Perfect and highly suggest it for any other girlbosses out there.

A few other things that you might want to pack in your carry on is an extra change of clothes, hand sanitizer, face wipes, facial masks, a neck pillow, laptop, camera, phone charger, laptop charger, plug converter, headache medicine, and snacks. If I have missed anything else that you consider to be a carry on must have, please let me know in the comments below!

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Outfits, Travel

Instagram Round-up: Travel Outfits

September 28, 2017

BOSTON/NANTUCKET

Travel outfits

COPENHAGEN

Travel outfits

PRAGUE

Travel outfits

ITALY

Travel outfits

Travel Outfits

Since my travels are sadly coming to an end tomorrow (yes, I am headed back to the states), I wanted to give you all a chance to shop my travel outfits before I dive into my city recaps. These last 3 weeks have flown by and I am so grateful to have experienced this once in a lifetime trip. I have tons to share with you guys as soon as I get home, sleep off this jet lag and start to adjust to normal (aka no 9-5 life), If you have anything specific of things you would like me to cover from my time in Boston, Nantucket, Copenhagen, Prague, Vienna, Milan or Cinque Terre, please let me know! Tomorrow on the blog I will have my international travel must haves since I will be headed home bright and early. Stay tuned next week for travel recaps!

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