We’re heading to Miami tomorrow night for Swim Week and I couldn’t be more excited. The last time I was there was on a family trip over 10 years ago! I’ve somewhat started the packing process by pulling out what I know I want to pack. I’ve also made a list of what I want and need to buy. That’s kind of how I handle packing for trips, not as organized as some with lists, but it seems to work for me. Here are a few things I’d love to bring in my carry on.
Happy Monday! I’m sharing the last batch of photos from our road trip up the coast. After Santa Barbara we decided to stop and doing a little wine tasting at Melville Winery in Lompoc. It was a cloudy and kind of chilly day but that didn’t stop me from wearing this dress. Sizing note, it runs a little large. I’m wearing a small and it’s a bit too big.
I originally planned to wear it to The Madonna Inn, but decided to keep it casual for wine tasting with my trusty denim jacket and booties, which were ideal for walking around in the vines. Luckily the rain held out until the moment we were leaving the vineyard! It was the perfect day.
The last time I was at the Madonna InnI was on a road trip with my family and I was 13. All these years later it’s just as kitschy as I remembered. It’s such a fun spot that probably hasn’t changed much since it opened in the 50’s. We only stopped for breakfast, but I’d love to go back for a longer stay. All of the rooms are decorated with their own theme and you can actually choose which one you want to stay in. You can see them here. Also, if you’re there for more than one night they don’t mind if you switch rooms so you can experience more!
I was worried I’d be cold but decided to wear this lavender dress(It’s $31 and the quality is surprisingly good for the price) and the weather turned out to be perfect once again. I’m not the biggest fan of purple but lately the lighter shades are growing on me.
When it comes to weekend getaways Palm Springs is my favorite place to escape to. It’s less than two hours away but somehow feels like a different world. Jeff and I always have so many special memories there – it’s where we got engaged! SO, I thought I’d share a guide to my favorite places in the desert.
PACK:
I like to bring a daytime and nighttime outfit for each day I’m there. Day always includes a swim suit and night (unless it’s July-September) includes a light layer. The temps drop a bit when the sun goes down and the air conditioning is always cranked up, so a denim jacket or something of the like are never a bad idea.
STAY:
Hands down favorite place is The Parker. I’ve always loved their beautiful grounds and design but when Jeff proposed to me on the croquet lawn it became a sentimental place too. We love to wander the grounds (cocktail in hand) and find secret corners to hang out in.
Obviously there are tons of hotels but I’m pretty picky when it comes to PS. Also love The Ace, Riviera, Avalon and Saguaro.
It’s also fun to rent a house if you’re traveling with a group. My favorite sites for that are Airbnb, VRBO and Oranj Palm.
BRUNCH:
Cheekys – I’m not a huge breakfast person but I love this spot. They serve Bloody Mary’s in boots and specialize in a bacon flight!
Normas at The Parker – Their brunch is delicious but my favorite is their turkey sandwich for lunch. Tip: if you’re staying at the hotel and you’re poolside you can ask for Norma’s menu and be served at the pool.
Take a detour to see the instagram sensation #thatpinkdoor if you’re into that sort of thing… 100 Sierra Way
My favorite thing to do in the desert is basically nothing! I love to park it at the pool with a good book and a cocktail and eat an early dinner. There are so many options if you find yourself bored. Go vintage shopping, hit up the outlet malls, take an architecture tour, go on a hike, ride the aerial tram.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you’re planning any desert trips anytime soon, I’d love to live vicariously through you!
The day we left New York we had the whole morning free to do whatever we wanted. We picked up bagels and coffee and headed over to the high line to picnic. It was extra hot and I tried to stay cool by throwing on the lightest clothes I packed and my new favorite hat. I try to pack as many neutrals as possible to make situations like this a little easier. These shorts were a last minute addition to my suitcase, but I would have been lost without them! They’re on super sale right now and are still available in a couple sizes.
One of the things I love about New York is how diverse the city is. Each neighborhood has a unique vibe and feels like it’s own little town. On our recent trip we were lucky to be hosted by The Paul Hotel in the NoMad district. It’s a fairly new boutique hotel that is super convenient to just about any where in the city. We loved sitting at the tables outside with our (complimentary) coffee and muffins in the morning to start the day. Also, how amazing was the view from our room?
