Tag Archives: Exploration

Life, Travel

What’s in a city?

After spending close to three weeks in New York  to open the World Trade Center, I realized what the energy of a city can do.  Either a city can empower and invigorate (More often than not) while others will chew you up and spit you out.  Time out magazine wrote on the topic of: Does being a New Yorker make you an Asshole?  I found this to be very interesting especially as I travel the world hoping to make every place a piece of my heart…my inner fiber.  I’ve always had a strong love for New York.  Growing up in Pennsylvania allowed us to be far enough away to make it exciting every time we visited, though close enough that it allowed the city to feel like I was still a part of it.

During college I had the chance to study abroad in the UK, which was a phenomenal experience to which I feel I owe a great deal of my life’s most prized possessions to- that of exploring the globe.  This allowed me to embrace the fear of going to live out of your “norm” away from those you hold close to you both in your physical space and are your Life.  Leaving it behind for 6 months to survive on fish and chips, Shepherd’s pie and a slew of Guiness.  I get it that this might not be the most inspiring start to living overseas, it was real.  Especially for that of a college student…And from Pennsylvania.  It doesn’t get much more simple than that.  Though it opened up my eyes to see a beautiful world, full of many option, cultures and cities that needed to be explored.  By me.

After this experience and following graduation I decided my roots in PA had been nurtured and nourished enough for me to find my way to a new place to call home.  I considered NY since, as I mentioned, my love for this city is endless.  However, I figured if I already moved to the other side of the pond, why not venture to the other side of the country.  And that’s exactly what I did.  I had NO idea where I should go.  I knew enough from my vacations growing up, that California was a place that I certainly loved and considered even making it home.  Just had no idea where to go.  Friends from college considered joining me to strike gold in finding a new journey on the west coast, though no one ended up making it with me.  For this, like many, was a journey I was to make on my own.  (Though let me be real, most of the times I’ve fought this aspect of journeying by myself and yet I know traveling solo was the reason for my trip to begin with!)

I landed in glorious Newport Beach which was a bit of a culture shock, simply due to all the luxe lifestyle and living this little beach town had to offer.  I called Newport Beach my home for 7 fantastic years to then branch out further, down south to San Diego.  San Diego was the perfect place for me to find my way in the world.  I worked for 6 years as Marketing director of Fashion Valley.  At the time, the 3rd most profitable shopping center in the US.  And this was even in the down economy of 2007.  Luckily, it taught me a ton about business, pr and the true value of relationships.  Eight years later I was onto yet another…even bigger city to explore.  I took a brief sabbatical to Paris in the summer of 2015 which would end up being an absolute game changer!!  From here, my world opened like never before.  After heading to Europe to live, knowing no one, I knew I could go anywhere.

After returning from Paris, as much as I loved San Diego, I knew the wind was blowing me onto something new.  Something bigger.  Though I honestly didn’t realize it would be LA.  And this was simply due to the fact that I came here to be a part of something I was extremely passionate about.  And now… It’s been 6 months that I’ve called Los Angeles my home.  The place I vowed to NEVER move to.  The same place that every day instantly stimulates and a place that can be incredibly overwhelming at the same time.  It’s the second largest city in the U.S. so what else would you expect, I ask myself?  It’s everything I thought it would be and nothing like I thought it would be at the same time.  From helicopters to absurd traffic- this place is a zoo.  And I’ve realized that it’s taken a bit of a toll on my sensitive soul.  With all the energy I’ve got running through me to now be countered by the intense amount of energy that exists in this concrete jungle, it can weigh on me at times.  So, now it’s about finding the peace within, in this new city I call home.

In Newport, I was at the beach and in San Diego, I was by the bay.  Both of which offer a welcoming sense of tranquility- even if life is far from it.  And although it can be a bit rare for me to sit at the beach or lie by the bay, something about those locations, that were still closely connected to city offerings allowed me to still enjoy some peace and harmony.  And now, here I sit at CBTL on Sunset blvd and am very much aware of the fact that I sit on a patio- outside- though instead of feeling ocean breeze, I’m breathing in car fumes and listen as those from “the industry” talk about their next big opportunity.  And with all of this, I’m living each moment to truly experience this new city of mine.  For most of my adult life I’ve dreamed that I could be bi-coastal, to also experience living in New York, and I have to say I’m quite thankful having had the chance to spend weeks at a time in that glorious city and yet still call California home.  Because at the end of the day, Home is where you make it.  (Or at the very least, where you pack and unpack your bags!)  So, here’s to you, Lalaland…I’m all yours.  Whether you’re home for a year or a lifetime, I hope you’ll offer me a sense of comfort, home and peace in this crazy big city of yours and I vow to bring a little bit of sunshine and gratitude your way.

Life

an L.A. story…

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After years of fighting and rejecting the thought of moving to L.A., here I sit…on Sunset Blvd, in my new hood of West Hollywood.  Who would have thought it?  Certainly not me!  The person who has detested and fought the very concept for all 17 years that I have been a resident of California.  Guess it just goes to show that in life, you simply just don’t know.  You have to let the wind take you where you are to be.  For me, I became an LA Woman by taking on a new role where I needed to be based in LA.  So now that the wind has blown me here…Now what?!

I was fortunately offered two months of housing while I find my way around this hustling, hectic and yet quite incredible new place!  I have to say that I’m falling for LA.  And this is again coming from the person that was against everything I thought LA was.

However, along with this excitement comes some of the crazzzzzy that LA is known for.  In fact, in my search for my new home, I had some very interesting encounters and experiences.  First off, I learned that most people secure a place and move within days.  No long leeway in securing an apartment.  Everything, unlike the traffic, moves at a fast pace.  And if you’re interested in making a place yours, you better come cash in hand and ready to commit.  I went to check out a 1 Bedroom in West Hollywood, along with 17 others.  17 people up for the same place?  And to be honest, this place wasn’t worth the competition that came with it.

Finding a place was a great way, if nothing else, for me to explore neighborhoods and parts of town I hadn’t even known of.  It was a chance for me to see that LA actually had much more to offer than I had ever given it credit for.  Stunning tree lined streets, charming architecture and adorable pockets hidden all over this city.  In fact, I found a 1930’s Spanish Colonial just driving around Robertson.  Called immediately and was able to move quickly.  The woman was from Pennsylvania, just like me…and we bonded over the fact that we were thankful for our east coast upbringing and how we valued the morals and integrity that came along with coming from there.  This was it.  This was my place.  A hand shake, deposit given, move-in date set.  Hooray, it’s official, I have a home in LA!!  Two hours later, she calls me back with great despair in her voice.  She begins by apologizing profusely saying she had another offer which she simply couldn’t refuse.  You see, another girl wanted this place as badly as I did.  Her father was a plastic surgeon and offered “Miss PA Integrity” with $300 more/per month in rent, though this grand offer came with something she valued even more.  It came with BOTOX.  Of course it did.  I mean, this is LA after all!  Needless to say, I can’t compete with units of face-freezing botox, so my dream of residing in this classic, cozy place went away like the wrinkles on her face.

Onward I go…the search must go on.  Driving up and down all the streets from Sunset south and back up again.  Found yet another place simply by exploring and driving up and down WeHo.  Called and toured immediately by yet another transport from the east coast.  Thankfully this time the woman was simply lovely to work with and when I put down a deposit, this time it was truly mine.  It’s a charming little community, somewhat of a (cliche and all)…Melrose place feel to it and is located just moments from the Chateau Marmot, which just so happens to be one of my favorite places in LA!

Sometimes it can be tough to navigate where you’re headed in life, though if you weather the winds of change and enjoy the ride…you may just end up where you never thought you would be and be happier than you thought.  Trust in life… and the course you’re on… and an adventure awaits!  May the constant winds of change guide you along a wonderful journey, through this thing called Life.  xo

 

Life, Travel

Winter Nights and Northern Lights

My strong desire to see Iceland was pretty simple- I needed to see the Northern Lights. It’s what drove me there, in all honesty.  What I didn’t realize is that seeing the Northern Lights is not something that is guaranteed.  Apparently, the Northern Lights come and go in few day cycles so the best bet to ensure a sighting is to be there for at least a week.  And to venture far out of the cities.  Though most importantly to check the aurora forecast every morning and be willing to change up your agenda, if need be to get to the area where the sky are clear and lights visible.  http://www.northernlightsiceland.com/northern-lights-forecast/

My experience in witnessing the Northern Lights was far better than I even imagined.  This day, however, was a white knuckle stressful day of travel from Reykjavik to Skaftafell for our Glacier hike was beyond hellacious.  We started the morning around before 7 am to ensure ample time to make it for our 1 pm glacier guided tour. The snow/hail/rain that we encountered made for a long and, at times, a rather stressful journey.  After being on the road for 6 hours we arrived at Glacier Guides for our tour starting at 1:00 at 1:01.  Literally just missed the tour but moments.  Thankfully, as fate would have it, we waited for the next tour in hopes that others, like us, may bail out and we can hop in on their time slot.  It ended up being even better, as we had the chance to have an phenomenal tour of the glacier and caves and finished our hike at sunset.  Spectacular.  Truly memorable experience, gazing over ice and glaciers at the closing of the day, in the perfect light of the night sky.  Had no idea that this was only the beginning of our magical night.

We booked a last minute reservation for Hotel Lambafell, a log cabin like, mini estate in the middle of nowhere, sitting perfectly at the foothill of a mountain.  Upon our arrival we immediately found our way to the jacuzzi in the back yard (though in reality it was more like an entire open field, miles of land, that belonged to only us)  Magical in itself.  Though the true magic began about 45 minutes later.  Enjoying some wine and the company of new friends, the sky began to light up with one green trail that quickly turned into an entire sky of green and purple.  From finger-like chandeliers to swirling and dancing across the sky.  It was by far one of the most spectacular things I’ve witnessed thus far in my life.  I was so inspired, so much in awe, I couldn’t get out of the jacuzzi to get my iPhone to capture it.  This was the one time in my life that I wanted to just truly be present and not miss a thing.  The night and lights finished around 3 am.  Though even then, when falling asleep, we swore the lights were still circling above us as we closed our eyes to sleep for the night.  This experience was something that truly touched my soul in that moment.  To share the space with good people, great wine and one of the most fantastic “light shows” in the world.  Life is beautiful.  Get out there and explore, my friends!  Oh and if you ever need a travel buddy, I’m always down!

 

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The glory of the glaciers, Skaftafell
The glory of the glaciers, Skaftafell

 

Culture, Travel

Iceland, the land of magic

For a few years now, I’ve wanted to check out the magical mystery of Iceland.  Though to be honest, it wasn’t quite at the top of the list.  Though timing just happened to be perfect for a new excursion in what would end up being one of the most unique adventures of a lifetime!  And like most wanderlust spirits, there are many places that we’re naturally drawn to, from a passion to experience a new culture, new land or simply to explore and experience life in some place that is foreign to us.  Then there’s Iceland, which offers all of that and then some!!

Often when booking trips, I do a bit of preliminary research, “instagram scouring” and the like, though I typically wait to commit to plans, until I’ve had a chance to take in some of the local suggestions to ensure I’m fully able to indulge in all the flavors, sights and culture of the country once there.

I grabbed a gal pal, scored a deal on WOW Air, booked a spectacular Airbnb flat and off we went.  We arrived at the crack of dawn on a freeeeeeezing winter day, after no sleep on your standard red eye and yet fired up and inspired to take it all in.  We took the first day to wander the streets and harbor of Reykjavik.  It’s a quaint little city and quite small indeed.  In fact, the entire population of Iceland is approximately 300,000 so you can imagine, the city tends to feel rather familiar in no time at all.  Which, in turn, makes it even more welcoming!  In fact, it’s so small that even as we drove for hours and miles out in the middle of nowhere, we still managed to run into the same couple all around the Island- on three separate occasions.  Sadly, however, this did not mean a run-in with Bjork as I was hoping.

After checking out our new “home” for the next week we headed off to check out Þingvellir National Park, which is a beautiful drive through vast snow covered, and at times, quite barren land.  With that being said, let me suggest that whenever there’s a gas station along the drive whether on the golden circle or simply around Iceland- stop.  This was suggested to me and I was beyond thankful to be overly cautious about it as there were times when it felt as though gas or no gas, you could easily get stranded out on the road.  The funny thing about Iceland is you’ll see at many souvenir shops items that say: I Survived Iceland.  And although funny and cheeky in some ways, it’s legit.  From the driving to some activities- it can be an bit intense experience. From within the park, we toured around the see the famous Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall that are located within the park.  They’re in close proximity to one another, so it’s a great way to check off and enjoy both wonders in the same afternoon.

Day 2, after a few drinks celebrating our arrival and first night out…oh and a few hours of sleep (Jet lag….what’s Jet lag when you’re running on pure adrenaline and enthusiasm!) , we were once again off for another day of exploration.  We arrived again in the park with some time to spare for a hike around to see some sights before our first Icelandic adventure began.  Snorkeling in a balmy -2 degrees celsius at Silfra.  This is the only place in the world where you can dive between two continents   Although the thought of immersing yourself in such frigid waters for a tour seems not overly welcoming, it is by far something that must be seen.  So, toughen up for an hour or so, throw on your flippers and dive on in!  The stunning turquoise waters and unique experience will be worth your while.  Plus, when else can you swim between and touch two continents at the same time.  Don’t miss it.

As you venture off throughout the country, be sure to keep your eye out for the Icelandic horses, typically hanging out on the side of the road…simply waiting for your arrival and adoration.  Which is not hard to do, as they are simply adorable creatures!  In fact, there is much to see along the way.  From waterfalls on the side of the road, to stunning landscapes for miles and miles, the road trip itself reinforces the idea of enjoying the journey….not just the destination.  So, with some good tunes, a full tank of gas, a big cup of Joe and a spirit ready for adventure, the road and all it’s sights await you within Iceland.  Enjoy the ride!

 

 

Travel

Portlandia. Land of the nicest people in America.

I’m not one who has cable.  Havent had it for several years, come to think of it.  So when everyone talks about Portlandia, I don’t have much of a reference point other than I’ve understood Portland to be a very earthy, hipster vibe, somewhat wierd like Austin, kind of town.  Last weekend, I had the chance to sample it for myself.  I had a Southwest voucher that was about to expire and I’ve always wanted to check out Oregon, so off I went.  To explore.  To venture into new territory.

Luckily, one of my besties lives in Washington, so she hopped onto my last minute journey and met me there.  This was a quick trip, so time was of the essence.  Although I arrrived late, so we decided to check out Departures at The Nines.  This was our kind of place- late night dining, fabulous views with a rooftop to boot, we enjoyed plenty of QT to catch up while sipping in the best of Portland.  And this was just the beginning.

We ended our evening around 3, when I simply couldn’t form sentences any longer….and were up bright and early at 8 am.   How can you not be when there are Voodoo Doughnuts to enjoy and an entirely new city to explore.  We, however, opted for an experience at Hunnymilk to start our day.  A funky little, pizza place at night, turned brunch spot on the weekends.  I heard about this place from a friend who suggested I go as Alex, the owners girlfriend, hosts inspired brunches that encourage letter writing and creativity.  She provides everything you would need to explore your creative writing…and or to simply put together a quick “Thinking of you.”  Hunnymilk offers an incredibly welcoming experience and unique food offerings as well.  I’d highly suggest a weekend stop-in.

After my sugar high kicked in (from indulging in a Mimosa (Think: Ice Cream Float), Waffles with Whip and Sprinkles and a Egg Sammy on a doughnut, complimented with maple goodness bacon.  How I made it through the rest of the day, still impressed…though it was worth the caloric overload.

Needless to say, we needed to work it out so off to Forest Park we went to enjoy America’s largest urban forest.  This place is absolutely picturesque and exactly what I envisioned Oregon looking like.  From it’s lush forestry to the incredibly enticing smell of Dirt.  Or perhaps its fresh air.  From the moment you step off the plane, you can smell the intoxicating scent of Nature.  Ahhhhh, Clean air and plenty of it.

After a quick change, we decided to check out some shopping.  I mean, it is a girls trip afterall.   And Shopping in Oregon is TAX FREE.  Need I say more?  There were many adorable boutiques downtown, and especially in the Pearl District.  Although it is tax free shopping, to be honest, I found most stores to be fairly pricey.   We lucked out, as there was a sample sale happening where I picked up a few pieces at a much sweeter price.  We also stopped into Radish Boutique.  They had a variety of eclectic and rather darling items.  Some of which were, coincidentally from San Diego.  Though the best thing about this place was the sweet woman working.  She gave us the most amazing referral of places to go that night.  And I can honestly say that all of the places we made it to were Insane!

Which leads me to the fact that people in Portland may just be the nicest people in the America.  Helpful…Actually courteous…Down home relatability.  Not only friendly, but helpful to guide you on your path….or create a path for you!  Which was more of the case for me, this trip, being a first timer to this lovely city.

Here’s what I’d say about the Nightlife:
Kennedy School– sadly, a missed opportunity, though I hear its quite the unique spot to enjoy a great night out in Portlandia.  However, our night started off with a stop off to Rontom’s – a sweet spot with a stellar patio.  Dark and ambient inside, fire places and cozy seating featured throughout the inside…with the same dark essence continued outside on the patio.  Picnic tables and communal seating makes for a fun way to connect with people. Coming from Southern California, this was quite refreshing to see that people actually go out to mix and mingle with other people!  Loved it…social scene, above par!

Next stop on our grassroots tour de Portland…
Doug Fir.  This place, upon arrival was reminiscent of a former Denny’s location, converted into a bustling nightscene.  From restaurant, to the bar, to the downstairs live music venue-even a gigantic Sasquatch to grab a selfie with….essential.  This place is great!  And thats just the inside.  Outside, there are cozy fire pits where our meeting of new friends continued.  In fact, my friend and I picked up an adorable couple who was too much fun to leave behind as we departed for our next and final stop to Dig a Pony.  From the outside it actually appeared to be a chill restaurant vibe, and yet it couldnt be further from the truth as this place was going off!  The DJ was spinning old school jams that I’m sure most of the crowd had never even heard of before and yet it didn’t matter.  Old school, new school.

The last dance came and went and it was time for us to say good night to a new and certainly adored city of Portland.  Thanks for the good vibes, good tunes and the hospitality that made it most memorable.  I heart u Portlandia. xo

 

Fashion, Travel

What a difference a day makes…

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Like most places, when you’re a “stranger” in a new city (as they call foreigners here in Paris), there’s always adjustments to be made.  The continual joke for living here in Paris is that perhaps I’m too smiley for this town and that I somehow need to perfect my “resting bitch face!”  Well, today it seems I have mastered my RBF being out in the chilly rain.

From the simple things in life of getting around, buying groceries, even just ordering an espresso can be tough.  It can be challenging when you’re here, doing your best to be the person you are at home- yet a bit more subdued, a bit more quiet, a bit more Parisian, if you will.  I’m fine on that front, though it can be tough navigating your way through the world in a place that’s entirely new and different from the world you know at home.  Especially in the rain!

It’s not just the language barrier- there’s more than I’m sure I can even describe at this moment.  For instance, today it has been raining non-stop.  So, does that mean you stay indoors?  Or do you venture out in the pouring rain for a new adventure?  Well, that’s exactly what I did.  I went out in the rain to make the best of my day.  Yet again, poorly equipped for the conditions as I have sandals, ballet flats and other open toed shoes thinking It’s summer still here, after all?  WRONG.  I need boots.  So, yet again, clearly the shopping gods are supporting my habit by “allowing” me to do what I’m best at, each and every day.

As one day it’s sweltering, the next day it’s freezing…and then today, it’s pouring down rain.  So, here I sit with soaking wet feet, another pair of shoes ruined.  (currently we’re at pair #3) that have suffered the loss due to these unpredictable conditions and weather.

They say that tomorrow it will be hot once again….though, for now, it’s soggy feet, a turned upside umbrella and a new pair of shoes.  Looking forward to seeing you again hopefully soon, Sunshine!!  So, for now, I will simply have to listen to Sous le Soleil, since I can’t be under the soleil today!

Sous Le Soleil (Original Mix) Aurélia ft. The Major Boys

Culture, Fashion, Travel

Dam(n), I love Amsterdam!

Although I’ve been before, I was ready to explore and experience Amsterdam once again.  I left Paris to experience a new city…especially as most Parisians are on vacation anyway… and I didn’t come to Paris to hang out with Americans.

I must say that the driving, even the walking around in Amsterdam is complete insanity.  Bikes everywhere.  Cars everywhere.  Shouting from bikers… A gazillion accidents waiting to happen!!

Though this place is truly unique.  From their edgy style to the incredible cuisine.  Sadly, from my little suitcase, I was ill-prepared for the fashion sense in this city.  No sandals, except for me and a family of tourist.  Mostly converse.  Dark colors predominantly. Seattle hipster vibe.  Had shorts on….complete Ridiculousness.  Clearly,  my packing has failed me.  Perhaps it’s so I can further justify purchases I make!!  It is an emergency you see.  A girl can’t freeze in the middle of summer when there are plenty of enticing opportunities to expand upon my wardrobe!!
For a traditional mall girl, there is something truly dynamic about street side fashion.  There is inspiration everywhere.  Not your perfectly manicured shopping centers, splattering ads throughout.  Just the incredible architecture and unique dynamic this city offers.
For me, fashion is everywhere. I love to seek it out while I stroll around aimlessly, through these foreign streets.  I explore random alleys with my handbag and an open mind, open to the experience. To see. To be inspired.

 

Life

Insatiable desire for Adventure….

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Being raised in simpleton Amish Country, I always knew there was more to life out there than simply living my entire existence in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.   And as soon as I got my drivers license, I was out adventuring.  Always!  I would literally drive four hours just to go to the beach for a day, only to turn around and return that night, yet another four hours.  I’d take road trips to anywhere I could go to ensure I was home at night.  After all, I was still a teenager, driving around some rather large and sometimes a bit sketchy cities  (Philly, DC, Baltimore) solo!   Though this for me, was only the beginning of my exploration.

I’m not sure if it’s due to the fact that I was from Amish country or for the fact that I had a grandfather that traveled the globe continually for his career.   As we always had National Geographics and unique momentos from some of the most obscure places across the world, throughout our house.  Either way, I knew that I was being  driven to experience the world for as long as I can recall.

During college, I had the opportunity to study abroad- in Plymouth, England.  Upon my return, it was quite apparent that Lancaster (although I am quite thankful for my upbringing there) was no longer serving me.  So, off I went- packed up my Volkswagen Cabrio and headed to the West Coast.  Landed in Newport Beach and was floored by all the beauty and abundance that surrounded me.  After 7 lovely years, I decided to change it up once again and headed south to San Diego in hopes of setting some permanent roots for me to call “home!”

San Diego, although superb, tends to be one of the most transient towns, certainly on the west coast.  From its military presence,  to the limited larger corporations, this gorgeous place I still call home, may be more of a layover for life for me. There is something very special about San Diego. That small town feel of a place that offers 70 miles of spectacular (and unique) beaches and a locale that’s so beautiful you dream to make it your own.

Though for now, it was time, yet again, to venture out into the world to experience new cultures, new people and in hopes of further learning a new….and ohhhh so beautiful language, French.  Although I certainly miss San Diego, especially  during these summer months, I trust that this was a calling for me to come and experience something new.  And thus far, Paris has certainly not disappointed.

So today I begin, another adventure, within this foreign place, in hopes of creating yet another location I can call “home.”  Because as they say, Home is Where the Heart is…and for now, my heart is here and happy.

Life

From Flood…to France!

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Here I sit, flooded carpet, cut-out dry wall,  dehumidifier set at a balmy 105 degrees….damaged condo all around.  This is it.  This is the last message needed to send me on my way.

For months, I’ve been seeing signs to head to Paris, though to be honest, I hadn’t paid much attention.  Why would I?  I don’t know a soul in Paris, barely speak le Francais….why would I uproot my life and leave behind my entire network of family, friends and colleagues to head somewhere where I know no one?  Good Question.

The only answer I could find is simply…to Live!  Seems like a good enough answer for me.  Not to mention the signs were becoming ever so present that my friends asked if I needed to be beat across the head by a baguette before I pack up and go!  As for me, I’d much rather indulge in a scrumptious baguette than be beat on the head by it….so with that, I decided to pack it up for Pareeee!