Travel – A Sweet Paradise

Best Finds Along Route 66

Posted on May 12, 2026May 6, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

Roadtripping on the most famous route in America? Here are some great pit stops to make along the way!

The road begins in Chicago, Illinois at the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue, and extends for about 2400, all the way to the Santa Monica Pier in California. It navigates through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona too.

Joliet, Illinois

Travelers like to stop here, as it is packed with nostalgia of the old highway, encompassing the Route 66 Welcome Center in the Joliet Area Historical Museum with exhibits, souvenirs, and vintage transportation such as a 1951 Hudson Hornet. On Collins Street is the Old Joliet Prison, featured in The Blues Brothers movie, and on W Cass Street is the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66.

The Pink Elephant Antique Mall

This large market in Livingston, Illinois was formerly a high school in the 1920s. Now, it is the home to more than 100 booth of antiques and collectibles, the 50s-style diner, and 12-foot tall pink elephant statue out front.

The Gateway Arch

This major landmark is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown St. Louis. It was designed in 1965 to signify the westward expansion of the United States, honoring pioneers and explorers who left the area in 1804.

Meramec Caverns

These 4.5 mile long caverns lined with ancient limestone are based in Stanton, Missouri. They were used as a hideout in the 1870s for outlaw, Jesse James. Guided tours of the seven passage levels and chambers are available, along with a light show in the caves.

Cars on the Route

In Galena, Kansas is a restored 1934 Kan-O-Tex service station. This roadside attraction is now a cafe where visitors can see memorabilia from the movie Cars, such as the Tow Mater replica. Less than a one-minute drive down the road is also Luigi’s Pit Stop, with a duplicate of Lightning McQueen as well!

Oklahoma Route 66 Museum

Located in Clinton, Oklahoma is the state’s official showcase of the long route’s history. Each gallery includes a theme from different eras, as well as a 1950s diner replica, classic cars, and vintage gas station displays throughout.

Cadillac Ranch

In Amarillo, Texas, this roadside attraction is a public art installation. It is made from 10 vintage Cadillacs that were embedded deeply into the ground and are spray-painted with graffiti.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

This location is regularly called the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” being the second-largest canyon in the U.S. Visitors may go hiking, biking, horseback riding, or stop for a show at the Pioneer Amphitheater during the summer for singing, dancing, and fireworks.

Tucumcari, New Mexico

The perfect place to stop for the night, this small town is filled with historic Route 66 inns, including the Blue Swallow Motel. At some of these motels and in downtown are almost 100 painted murals, with a free map offered at the Tucumcari County Chamber of Commerce.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque has a blend of Southwestern history, an art scene, and outdoor adventure. In Old Town, there is more than 150 restaurants, boutiques, and galleries with handcrafted items. At the ABQ BioPark Zoo, an aquarium, botanic garden, and animal park will be found. And, a must-do is riding in a hot air balloon at the “Balloon Capital of the world.”.

Petrified Forest National Park

This desert landscape in northeastern Arizona provides large deposits of colorful fossilized wood. Inside of it are attractions such as the colorful “Painted Desert” rock layers and the Crystal Forest, which is a hiking spot with one of the park’s highest concentrations of petrified wood and logs containing clear quartz and purple amethyst crystals.

Flagstaff, Arizona

This town will give you a nostalgic Route 66 experience, as it hosts cafes, a roadhouse, retro diners, neon signs, and vintage motels. Besides that, you can enjoy stargazing at Lowell Observatory or if willing to drive a bit out of the way, the Grand Canyon!

Two Guns, Arizona

While once a bustling tourist stop, Two Guns is now a historic ghost town located on the Canyon Diablo. It is considered “cursed” due to violent feuds in the 1920s and then the massive fire in 1971, which led to its complete abandonment. However, people still enjoy stopping there to see old gas stations, the Mountain Lion Zoo remnants, and a deserted campground.

Joshua Tree National Park

In southern California, this stop has hiking trails through rock formations in the desert. Key Views is the highest accessible point that is drivable, giving a panorama of the Coachella Valley. Or, at night time, this park provides some of the best night-sky views in the country, including Skull Rock.

If you are going down Route 66, be sure to make a pit stop by at least a few of these!

Thanks for the read.

xo, Nicole (:

The Most Lovely All-Inclusives in the World

Posted on May 5, 2026April 21, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

Here are 10 of the best all-inclusive resorts around the world!

Hermitage Bay – Antigua

Known for its 30 suites, exquisite dining of Caribbean and European cuisine, private plunge pools, organic garden, and Nobu-trained chefs, Hermitage Bay is considered one of the best all-inclusives in the world.

Siyam World – Maldives

This breathtaking resort and island offers 24/7 support, the country’s largest floating water park, more than 12 venues for dining, and depending on the villa, your own water slide, a horse ranch, and electric go-karting.

Secrets Maroma Beach – Cancun, Mexico

Besides the gorgeous beach, the award-winning hotel gives high-quality gourmet dining, world-class spa services, a waiting service, more than 500 suites with swim-out access or balconies overlooking the some of the 13 pools.

Jade Mountain – St Lucia

Jade Mountain is home to open-air sanctuaries featuring private infinity pools while looking at the Pitons. Guests will be able to take advantage of exclusive personal services and focus on connecting with nature!

Lujo Hotel Bodrum – Turkey

People love this all-inclusive due to the nine specialized restaurants including Italian and Japanese, with the option for a’la carte rather than buffets. The design is known as modern, stylish, and contemporary with multiple pools, private swim-ups, cabanas, and beaches.

Casa Velas – Mexico

Casa Velas is an adults-only resort which has a peaceful experience with exceptional dining and VIP access to an exclusive beach club and a luxury spa.

Catalonia Royal La Romana – Dominican Republic

Guests enjoy staying here due to the intimate atmosphere and pristine location on Dominicus Beach. It hosts 117 suites, some which have swim-up rooms or duplexes with private pools. A full-service spa offers hydrotherapy, body wraps, and massage packages.

Samabe Bali Suites & Villas

If you are looking for a luxurious all-inclusive experience, you have found the place, with the plan giving a 24-hour butler service and complimentary laundry. Packages can have a personal catamaran sailing, cave dining, or Bailnese cooking classes.

Mango House – Seychelles

This top-tier boutique stands out with its stunning location, offering a secluded home-y feeling. Cuisines with five diverse dining options and bars are present, along with the choice to snorkel along the white sand beaches.

Alpinresort ValSaa – Austria

All-day drinks, exceptional service, wellness/spa areas, different pools and saunas, with the prime location near the Saalbach ski lifts are all appealing features of the Austrian resort. It’s hard to beat that view of the mountains too!

Let me know if you’ve been to any of these! Thanks for the read.

-xo, Nicole (:

Wild About Wilmington

Posted on April 28, 2026April 21, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

Little did I know about the charming riverside town of Wilmington. Until I learned that is where my favorite show (One Tree Hill) was filmed! I realized this when I saw an event hosted by Friends with Benefit where you could meet the stars of the show. I was surprised, but excited about the news, so I bought myself a ticket and have driven down three times now. Though I am partially biased because of the show having a special place in my heart, I fell in love with Wilmington. It was perfect, having the riverwalk with shops and eateries, combined with Wrightsville and Carolina Beach both a short drive away. Other filmography here includes Dawson’s Creek, The Summer I Turned Pretty, Safe Haven, and Outer Banks.

Some of my favorite stops include:

New Hanover County Arboretum – 7 acres of flowers and a Japanese garden featuring a Koi pond

Wilmington Riverwalk – boardwalk nearly 2 miles long, hosting cute boutiques, an array of markets, outdoor cafes, small shops, art galleries, and spectacular view of the water

Kure Beach – located at the bottom of the beach is a parking lot where we pulled over to get a pretty view of the sun setting from a nearby gazebo

Wrightsville Beach – 4.5 miles long, east of Wilmington, where you will find Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier and waterfront dining

Blue Post Billiards – a small bar with pool, arcade games, and cozy seating right in the center of town

Tric – a main filming spot from the show, open for tours and charity fundraisers, currently being turned into a bar/nightclub

The Cotton Exchange – complex with 20+ eateries/shops

Other recommendations to try:

Airlie Gardens – 67 acre botanical gardens with The Bottle Chapel art installation and Butterfly House

Carolina Beach/boardwalk – home to a 10-story gondola wheel, carnival rides, an arcade, dining, shopping, bars, and live music/fireworks every Thursday during the summer at the gazebo

Old Wilmington City Market – specialty gift shops and bookshops

SUNdays – cafe with beer, wine, acai bowls, and coffee, steps away from Crystal Pier

Historic Downtown Wilmington Artisan Market – held on Sundays from 10am-3pm, with the option to purchased handcrafted goods and unique artwork

Alcove Beer Garden – indoor/outdoor full liquor bar in the Cargo District

Lumina Station – shopping village with locally owned boutiques and restaurants

Tarantelli’s – upscale Italian restaurant along the riverwalk that offers live music

Carolina Beach Grill & Bar – casual pub featuring sports and food served on the patio

Where to Stay

Embassy Suites by Hilton

These suites are an ideal choice, as they are located directly on the riverwalk, giving the rooms on both sides of the building a beautiful view of the water.

Beau Rivage Golf and Resort

Located between downtown and Carolina Beach, this resort offers golf packages and pickleball. It will allow guests to feel comfortable while enjoying its historic charm.

Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach

I stayed at this hotel in Carolina Beach when I visited and it was really nice! It is located right on the beach and boardwalk, with a large outdoor pool for the warm seasons.

A Quick Debrief of Florida’s West Coast

Posted on April 21, 2026April 21, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

Struggling to figure out where exactly in Florida to vacation to? Me too! That is why I am here to summarize the best cities down the west coastline, starting at the top.

Destin

Destin, Florida — Photo by Vivian Joskowicz

A beautiful place to begin, Destin is a host emerald-green waters and powdery, white sand. It is known for being “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” for deep-sea fishing. Crab Island is a shallow-water sandbar with a party atmosphere, where visitors can rent pontoons or charters and enjoy floating bars and food vendors. At Baytowne Wharf, you can shop, eat, listen to music, or have a blast at the obstacle course. The Destin HarborWalk offers views of the water while strolling along the boardwalk full of restaurants and lively nightlife. Big Kahuna’s Water and Adventure Park, tubing, go-karts, mini golf, boating, museums, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, zoos, and snorkeling are perfect family activities!

2. St. Pete

Much further down the state is St. Petersburg, or St. Pete. The downtown is bustling, highlighting the pretty Spa Beach, which is ideal for volleyball, kayaking, and paddleboarding. This destination has world-class art museums, shops and breweries along Central Avenue, Sunken Gardens, and the St. Pete Pier. Jet ski rentals, sunset cruises, and dolphin-watching tours are exciting excursions to book here as well! Not to forget, the city of Tampa is less than 30 minutes away, home of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, ZooTampa, and The Florida Aquarium.

3. Siesta Key

Conditions continue to worsen out here on Siesta Key 😎. #siestakey #FLA #fml #floridaproblems #florida #earlyretirement — Photo by Chris Lexow

Talk about stunning! Siesta Key is often named the #1 Beach in the United States, with the turquoise ocean and pure quartz sand which stays cool even with direct sunlight. You can use the free open-air trolley to travel between locations like Lido Key and the walkable village along Ocean Boulevard. Yoga on the shore, unique shopping experiences, tiki bars, live music performances, the farmers market, and bicycling are fun adventures to partake in there too. A short drive northeast will take you to the city of Sarasota, where you will find The Ringling Museum, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Solomon’s Castle, and the main street with galleries and stores, or take an hour drive northwest to Anna Maria Island for more pretty beaches!

4. Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach Pier - Florida — Photo by Andrea Moscato

This stop in Florida will give visitors a mix of history, nature, and coastal charm. Places you will want to stop at include Brightwater Lagoon, Koreshan State Park, and Sanibel Island, popular for beachcombing. Times Square is the central hub for shopping and eating, with direct access to the pier. Or, The Promenade at Bonita Beach is a 45 minute drive north, with some of the finest retail stores and boutiques. By taking the Key West Express ferry, you will be able reach Key West or, seasonally, Marco Island for approximately $170 per person. This catamaran ride is perfect for a day trip, particularly if you prefer to not drive down and back.

5. Key West

At the very bottom of the state is Key West, with yet again gorgeous beaches. Snorkel the coral reef, visit the Key West Shipwreck Museum, take a dolphin-watching tour, watch a famous Key West sunset, or a two-hour boat ride to Dry Tortugas National Park. The island is exceptionally abundant in aquatic activities as well, such as sailing, parasailing, water skiing, scuba diving, and kayaking.

Let me know your favorite spot on Florida’s west side! Thanks for the read.

-xo, Nicole (:

Let’s Take a U.S. Trip in December!

Posted on February 10, 2026January 14, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

New York City

Stopping in New York City during Christmastime is a must-do once in your lifetime. I have and despite the cold, really enjoyed the atmosphere. There are massive Christmas trees and ice rinks at the Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park. There, you can find a festive winter village with shops and food. Other holiday markets are found at Columbus Circle and Union Square. Holiday light displays are put up at Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Brooklyn Botanic Garden, where you can find a train show as well. Go to Radio City Music Hall to watch the Christmas Spectacular or Central Park for horse-drawn carriage rides. You can also take a trip over to Hudson Yards for the shopping center that is beautifully draped with lights.

Leavenworth, Washington

The city of Leavenworth transforms into a festive, Bavarian Christmas village, with holiday lights, shopping, and sleigh rides. Stroll through the town to the Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival every weekend in December, the Leavenworth Christkindlmarkt to experience a traditional German Christmas market, and The Gingerbread Factory for cookies and espresso. Icicle Gorge Trailhead is a pretty spot for winter walks, the Nutcracker Museum has thousands of nutcrackers from around the world, and skiing and snowboarding are available at Mission Ridge.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui offers a great combinations of festive, island-style Christmas celebrations such as the Lahaina Banyan Tree lighting or beach luaus, while also being able to still enjoy surfing on the north shore at Kanaha. Though not as hot as the summertime, an average of 77 degrees makes it ideal for swimming in the ocean and sunbathing at Ka’anapali Beach. Haleakalā National Park displays the diverse landscape of Hawaii, with the volcano and natural pools within the bamboo forests. You also must travel down the Road to Hana, being the world’s most scenic drive of waterfalls, the rainforest, the sea, and lava tubes.

Fort Myers, Florida

In Fort Myers, visitors can enjoy mild temperatures in the 70s while still enjoying the warm Gulf waters in December at Estero Island. This weather is suitable for shelling, kayaking, and soaking in the vibrant downtown culture. Holiday festivities include the Christmas Boat Parade, the Luminary Walk, and the Festival of Trees. Attractions there consist of visiting Manatee Park, taking dolphin cruises, and walking through nature trails at Lovers Key State Park. While there, it would be worthwhile to stop by Times Square, full of beachfront retail shops and restaurants, frequently featuring live music.

Southern California

Christmas Castle — Photo by Michael Saechang

Though a big colder, with weather being in 50s and 60s, southern California is still a nice place to add to your list. In Anaheim, you can visit Disneyland for some holiday magic or take a short drive down to the Santa Ana Winter Village. In Laguna Beach, you can celebrate Sawdust Winter Fantasy Festival or hike along coastal trails at Heisler Park. In Santa Barbara, you can see the annual Parade of Lights on the harbor, take a tour through the wine region, and walk the pier at Stearns Wharf for ocean views and fresh seafood.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Worldwide Vacations for November

Posted on February 3, 2026January 14, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

Let’s take a look at my top 5 suggestions for destinations around the world to visit in November.

Maldives

Huvafen Fushi Ocean Bungalow — Photo by Huvafun Fushi

November has excellent conditions for diving with manta rays and whale sharks, less rain, and stunning sunsets, minus the peak crowds and high prices. The Maldives looks like an absolutely beautiful destination. with snorkeling, scuba diving, sunset cruises, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Plus, the spa treatments and staying in an overwater bungalow will have you feeling relaxed and luxurious. While Hulhumale Beach is known for its white sand and shallow, clear water, Vaadhoo Beach is famous for the “Sea of Stars” bioluminescence occurrence where the phytoplankton glow an electric blue at nighttime.

Dubai

This city in November has nice, cooler weather, avoiding the summer heat. It is still magnificent for swimming at JBR Beach or going on desert safaris. It marks the beginning of peak tourist season with Dubai Design Week, Dubai International Film Festival, and the Dubai Shopping Festival kicking off. While there, Ferrari World, Burj Khalifi, the world’s largest building with an observation deck, or the Dubai Autodrome, with the opportunity to drive an F1 race car. The Dubai Miracle Garden, the largest natural flower garden in the world, reopens this month. It is the home of over 150 million flowers forming castles and a life-size Emirates A380 replica!

Malta

Going to Malta at this time of the year is perfect for visiting historical sites such as Valletta or the Tarxien Temples without the crowds. The temperatures in the ocean are also still swimmable, though there may be occasional showers and cooler nights. More notable scenic spot are Dingli Cliffs and Blue Grotto, a sea cave known for its vibrant blue waters. In this country, you can also find the Popeye Village, an eccentric venue and open-air museum. It was created as the original film set for the live-action Popeye movie in 1980, providing characters, mini golf, boat rides, and a swimming area.

St. Lucia

Why go to St. Lucia in November? For the lush scenery, lower prices, and fewer crowds, of course. Besides relaxing in your private villa, the Gros Piton is a 5 hour hike or Descartiers Rainforest are moderate trails. Other attractions consist of the mud baths at Sulphur Springs, swimming under the Toraille Waterfall, kayaking Pigeon Island, or catamaran cruises. If you want to enjoy a gorgeous beach, try Anse Mamin or Reduit for water sports such as water skiing and windsurfing.

Taiwan

Photo by Gary Todd

The country of Taiwan will be ideal for exploring autumn scenery at Qianshan Park while experiencing less crowds in the middle of fall. It starts off hot spring season for relaxing dips at Beitou or Wulai. Starting in the middle of the month, you can catch the huge annual festival of Christmasland with trees, light displays, music, and installations. Another event is Nuit Blanche, a contemporary arts festival featuring interactive projections. Taipei 101 (pictured above), was one of the tallest buildings in the world, still holding luxury shops and observation decks.

Well I hope you learned more about these destinations and are contemplating them for your next trip. Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Interesting U.S. Adventures in November

Posted on January 27, 2026January 14, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

Not sure where to travel to in the U.S. in the late fall? Here are a few recommendations for you to consider.

Sedona, Arizona

Pleasant weather for hiking at Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock on top of less crowds makes Sedona attractive during the month of November. Red Rock State Park makes for a scenic walk while Centennial Trailhead makes for a good spot for stargazing. Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are common day trips (3 hours one way) taken from Sedona, as they are only a 12 minute drive from one another. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is a location for browsing galleries and boutiques, designed to feel like a traditional Mexican village.

Tampa, Florida

Busch Gardens Tampa — Photo by Jeremy Thompson

Visit Tampa in November if you’re looking for the perfect weather, warm days and cool nights. Fall events, food festivals, and walking or biking the Riverwalk are fun activities to do. Beaches including Clearwater or St. Pete can be ideal for swimming and tanning, with weather in the mid-70s. Busch Gardens (pictured above) and ZooTampa with an open-air safari are good choices for families! And if you come at the beginning of the month, you can attend Hulaween, a electronic music festival less than three hours away!

Telluride, Colorado

If you want early access to skiing and snowboarding, mixed with crisp mountain air before winter sets in, November is a good time to go to Telluride. It has a free gondola that you can ride from the city to Mountain Village, as it gives passengers outstanding sights of the San Juan Mountains. Horse-drawn sleighs are available at the Aldasoro Family Ranch and the ice skating rink is found at the Telluride Town Park. Hiking at Bear Creek Falls and Bridal Veil Falls still may be possible, if you prepare by dressing in layers.

North Pole, Alaska

The town of North Pole in Alaska is as unique as it sounds, hosting a Christmas-themed Santa Claus House and viewing for Northern Lights. At the Antler Academy across from the Santa Claus House, people can meet live reindeer. Streets such as Santa Claus Lane and Candy Cane Lane are festively decorated, with candy cane-striped lampposts and elaborate light displays. Events such as Winterfest & Holiday Bazaar, with local vendors, food, and fireworks, starts near the end of November.

Los Angeles, California

The City of Angels has absolutely perfect weather year-round, so why not escape the cold and go there? The average temperature during this month is 73 degrees and therefore, a good time to walk the Runyon Canyon, see the festive lights at The Grove, or attend the Hollywood Christmas Parade. Other events include the LA Zoo Lights or the Avenue 26 Night Market for food trucks. For a less basic experience, the Valley Relics Museum, the Venice of America Canals, St. Vincent Court, or taking the Angels Flight railway to the Grand Central Market.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

All Around the World in October

Posted on January 20, 2026January 14, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

Bora Bora

Tikehau, archipel des Tuamotus — Photo by Benoit Mahe

This island offers excellent weather with little rain and warm temperatures in the mid-80s while peak season is slowing down. The seas are calmer then and there is abundant sunshine! It is perfect for diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, ATV tours, exploring villages, and whale watching. If I were to go, I would likely choose to swim in the clear water around my bungalow most of the time.

Morocco

By visiting Morocco in October, you will be able to avoid the heat, making it ideal for exploring cities such as Marrakech and Fes, hiking through the Atlas Mountains, and surfing along the coast of Essaouira. In the Sahara Desert, you will even be able to ride camels or rejuvenate in a traditional Moroccan Hammam bath! Other unique activities include pottery workshops or the Arabian Nights dinner experience in the dunes of the Moroccan Desert.

Iceland

Iceland in October provides visitors with lower prices and stunning autumn colors. Not to mention the prime opportunity for viewing the Northern Lights or ice caving at Crystal Cave. Glacier hiking at Solheimajokull Glacier, boat tours at glacier lagoons, and snowmobiling are fun winter activities to participate in too. Gullfoss Waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland with the Blue Lagoon being an incredible geothermal area with a swim-up bar.

Switzerland

Ice-melt in the Swiss Alps — Photo by Robert Heath

A beautiful Swiss cities to visit in October is Zurich, for viewing fall foliage, soaking in the thermal baths, stopping at the Lindt Home of Chocolate, and hiking Ebenalp Seealpsee. The Engadine Valley is worth visiting, along with Lago di Saoseo, despite it being a two-hour hike. Or if you would like to experience a train ride, Glacier Express or Bernina Express, strolling along Lake Lucerne, and wine harvest celebrations are are unforgettable options as well.

Tuscany, Italy

Another place for fall foliage and wine harvests is Tuscany. The Boccaccesca Food & Wine Festival in Certaldo hosts cooking shows, tasting experiences, and live music. You can trek in the Casentino Forests National Park or along the coast at Maremma Park for autumn colors. The Arezzo Antiques Fair is Italy’s oldest and largest antique market that occurs the first Sunday of every month. Wine lovers may prefer to go to Montepulciano, the location of underground wine cellars. Explorers might want to climb the Towers in San Gimignano, before shopping and dining in the town.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Time for an October Getaway in the U.S.

Posted on January 13, 2026March 16, 2026 by Nicole Benedetta

Here are my top five picks for traveling to the U.S. in October:

Acadia National Park, Maine

Though I have not yet been, Acadia National Park looks amazing! And October seems to be a great time to visit due to the smaller crowds and cooler hiking weather along trails such as Beehive Loop or the Shore Path. While there, it is recommended to drive the scenic Park Loop Road, bike the historic Carriage Roads, and visit the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, located on the southwestern corner of Mount Desert island within the park.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Though I visited here in the month of April (and it was nice), October is another good choice as well. You will experience warm days in the mid-70s mixed with fewer summer crowds and warmer ocean water. Dolphin watching, golfing, kayaking, and fall festivals can all be enjoyed at this time of the year. You won’t want to miss the Hilton Head Island Oktoberfest or Kiwanis Chili Cook-Off & Jeep Island.

Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu is a magnificent island, with warm weather in October and the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival happening. This is ideal for hiking to Diamond Head, snorkeling at Hanuama Bay, relaxing on Waikiki Beach, and exploring Pearl Harbor. Plus the first whales start arriving from Alaska this month, so be on the lookout for them!

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta — Photo by Mark Bonica

This city is known for its world-famous International Balloon Fiesta, which is at the beginning to mid-October. It also makes for perfect mild weather to walk around the Albuquerque Old Town area. The Sandia Peak Tramway also offers incredible views of the fall foliage and the city. A hidden gem is said to be the Tinkertown Museum, full of unique architecture, eccentric collections, and interactive displays.

New England

A Road Through Autumn — Photo by Andy Thrasher

If you love fall foliage, New England would be a great road trip to take during this season. Stop in Woodstock, Vermont for a cute town known for its classic beauty, ride Mount Washington Cog Railway for exceptional sights, or take a trek at Dixville Notch State Park to see a lake, colorful trees, and Table Rock, a steep granite ledge. Other options include Salem, if that is your cup of tea, or the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Providence, Rhode Island.

Have a great October vacation if you plan to take one. Or I hope this helped you choose where to go!

Thanks for the read.

-xo, Nicole (:

A Weekend in Miami

Posted on August 6, 2025August 6, 2025 by Nicole Benedetta

After visiting the South Beach area of Miami for a long weekend, here is what I did there with a few other people.

The first day, we arrived in the evening, at the perfect time for dinner. So, we walked to Taco Taco, where we sat out on the patio and sipped on their huge margaritas. After that, we explored a small area of the city including the shops on Lincoln Road as well as the Miami Beach Boardwalk. Then, we stopped at Icy-n-Spicy for their jumbo specialty milkshakes (shown above).

The second day, we woke up early so we could have time to relax at the beach. After doing so, we took a cab to downtown, where we explored the Bayside Marketplace and took a boat ride along Millionaire’s Row, with celebrity homes such as Jennifer Lopez and Shaquille O’Neal. After that was done, we got ready for dinner at Barton G. Though it was pricey, the dinner was a unique experience, with my lobster pop-tarts being served to me in a toaster. We also stopped by Soundscape Park to check out the outdoor movie they were playing that night.

The third day, we went back to the beach for a little bit. Traveling past downtown again to Wynwood, we then visited the Superblue museum (pictured above). This was a neat, interactive experience with 5 different exhibits. Not too far of a walk away from that was the World Famous House of Mac, which was delicious! At night time, we went to the Treehouse nightclub then rode around South Beach in the slingshot rentals. Another club that looked interesting is Mango’s Tropical Nightclub. Other high-end clubs such as LIV and E11EVEN look fun as well, although the cover charges can be high, around $60 (from what I’ve heard).

The fourth day, we were heading back home. We stopped by the Miami Beach Botanical gardens for a few minutes before though, then took a ride to the airport.

Below, I’ve listed more recommended attractions, restaurants, and hotels in Miami for you!

Wynwood/Downtown

Attractions:

Miami Design District – known for modern architecture, upscale interior design stores, art, and jewelry boutiques

Wynwood Graffiti Experience – tickets for $42

Jungle Island – tickets for $30

Dolphin Mall – Miami’s largest outlet mall with over 240 shops

Metromover – free automated train system to transport around the town

Brickell City Center – shopping center with upscale stores, coffee shops, and cocktail bars

Miami Riverwalk – pedestrian walkway extending from along the north side of the Miami River and the Biscayne Bay

The Citadel – food hall with live music, game nights, a vintage store, and a rooftop bar

Restaurants:

Maman – cafe/bakery with pastries, breakfast bowls, and sandwiches

Mr. Baguette – cafe with salads and acai bowls or the ability to build your own wrap, croissant, or sandwich

Cowy Burger – if you don’t want a burger, you can try the chicken sandwich or veggie patty with a few different options for fries

The Taco Stand – eatery with tacos, burritos, corn, and a salsa bar

CRAFT Bayside – American restaurant with cocktails, juices, omelettes, sandwiches, and pizzas

Hotels:

South Beach

Attractions:

Lummus Park Beach – combination of greenspace and beach access with volleyball courts from 5th to 15th Street

Ocean Drive – known for Art Deco buildings but also for its lively nightclubs and various dining options

Fifth and Alton – indoor shopping plaza containing Chipotle, TJ Maxx, Ross, Publix, and more

Carnaval Rooftop – label themselves as only rooftop on Ocean Drive, serving bottomless brunch on the weekends and dinner all throughout the week

South Pointe Park Pier – used by visitors and locals for fishing and magnificent views of the ocean

Rooftop Cinema Club South Beach – tickets for $15-28

Restaurants:

MILA – Mediterranean restaurant with a 2-hour multi-course buffet

Montana’s Miami Beach – Scarface-themed American restaurant with steak, seafood, burgers, and pasta

Sola Miami Beach – seafood/sushi restaurant with two patios and a rooftop lounge

Cafe Americano – serves breakfast combos, lunch, and dinner, including chicken/seafood bowls, pasta, and tacos

Macchialina – Italian cuisine featuring handmade pasta

Hotels

I hope this was informative for your upcoming Miami trip. Thanks for the read! (:

-xo, Nicole