Tag: Travel

Which U.S. Cities To Stop In This February

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, Washington
Photo by Amy Meredith

This is a pretty spot to travel to in the winter due to the snowfall. Leavenworth is a Bavarian-themed city approximately 2.5 hours from Seattle. Popular activities include skiing, snow tubing, snowmobiling, visiting a reindeer farm, enjoying the hot springs, riding in a horse-drawn sleigh, viewing the Christmas lights that are hung until February, and walking around the German Christmas Market.

The Florida Keys

Key West Sunset (3)
Key West – Photo by R Boed

Personally, escaping the cold by traveling to a warm destination is my dream. If it’s the same for you, the Florida Keys is an incredible choice. The daily average temperature down there is 71 degrees. In addition, the Annual Old Days Art Festival takes place at the end of the month, with nearly 25,000 visitors and over 100 artists. It is also a nice time to explore the historic treasures and watering holes of the islands. And you can’t forget about stepping foot on the gorgeous beaches, or even taking a swim in the ocean.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Photo by Domenico Convertini

If you want to celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans, you have to go in February. Here, you can attend parades, picnics, listen to music, and of course, party! And the best part is that it’s not too cold during this month. You could also spend Valentine’s Day here, at a romantic restaurant or taking a riverboat cruise.

Austin, Texas

Downtown Austin, Texas at Night
Photo by Ken Lund

Austin, Texas is a good place to stop at during the second month of the year, as it is less crowded, the rates for accommodations are cheaper, and the weather is typically pleasant. This city engulfs a variety of interests such as fitness, food, history, music, and art. A few things for you to participate in could be the marathons, exploring museums, distilleries, ice skating, film festivals, or a drive-in movie.

Breckenridge, Colorado

View from a slope
Photo by Jarrod Doll

This is the perfect time for hitting the slopes on the fully open terrain in Breckenridge, Colorado. You can partake in pretty much any of the winter sports here as well. Not to forget the museums, live music, the outdoor sculptures, yoga, the large historic district, and drinking at one of the several bars in the town.

Honolulu, Hawaii

View of Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay – Photo by Daniel Ramirez

Though Hawaii is wonderful to travel to year-round, February is less busy than other months, the rainfall is minimal, and the temperature is usually between 68-79 degrees every day. It is still a nice time for snorkeling, hiking, surfing, mountain tubing, surfing, and festivals.

Are you thinking about traveling to one of these destinations soon? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks for the read.

-xo, Nicole (:

8 Excellent Hotel Choices in Barcelona

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

If you’re planning on going to Barcelona, Spain in the near future, listen up! Below, I’ve chosen 8 hotels in the area that I, myself, would love to stay at. So I bet you will to.

Hotel El Palace Barcelona

Hotel El Palace is located in the middle of the city, near Las Ramblas, the major shopping district. Even though it is a bit older, having been constructed in 1919, the classic decor is charming. Along with booking a room there, you will be provided with slippers and a bathrobe. And also your own mini bar! Amenities include a spa with a sauna, a gym, outdoor pool, a business center, and even a limousine and chauffer available upon request!

W Barcelona

Situated on Barceloneta Beach is the W Barcelona, providing visitors with stunning views of both the ocean and the skyline. Amenities here consist of an infinity pool, spa, and rooftop bar. In the rooms, you will find a rainforest shower and a Nespresso machine.

Motel One Barcelona-Cuitadella

This is definitely not a regular motel. Motel One Barcelona-Cuitadella offers a rooftop terrace overlooking Cuitadella Park, the beach, and the city! It also provides continental breakfast and a lounge bar that is open 24/7.

Hotel Casa Bonay

If you’d rather stay in a cute boutique hotel, check out Casa Bonay! Each room is soundproof and equipped with a tea/coffeemaker, a minibar, and mosaic designs throughout. You will also find a cafe and winery onsite, along with sunbeds on the rooftop!

Mercer Hotel Barcelona

Mercer Hotel was formed in an ancient building, displaying exposed brick walls in the rooms and stylish decor. The hotel features a rooftop swimming pool with a bar and an interior courtyard. Just a short walk away, you will discover restaurants, the metro station, and Barcelona Cathedral.

Hotel Paxton

The accommodations at Hotel Paxton include, but are not limited to, a fitness center, a seasonal outdoor pool, a terrace, and a continental breakfast. Nearby are beaches such as Mar Bella and Bogatell, if you’re willing to walk about 12 minutes to get there.

Monument Hotel

At this property, you will have access to a 3-star Michelin restaurant, a spa, and a rooftop pool. In your soundproof, exquisitely-decorated room, you’ll get a Bluetooth sound system, a bathrobe, and typically, a balcony with views of Barcelona.

Hotel Royal Passeig de Gracia

Right in the midst of the city is this 4-star hotel, containing an interior garden, fitness center, business center, and bar. It features luxurious, spacious rooms with modern technology and an electric kettle. Approximately a 5 minute walk away is Plaza Catalunya, known for its fountains and statues.

If you enjoyed my post, please like and subscribe.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Power Couple Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds Love to Vacation Here

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

Where does everyone’s favorite celebrity couple like to go on vacation? Let’s take a look!

Africa

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

After getting married in 2012, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds went on their honeymoon in Africa.

Maldives

Maldives
Photo by Selda Eigler

A year later, in 2013, the couple spent their wedding anniversary in the beautiful Maldives.

Vancouver, Canada

Not only is this Reynold’s hometown, but it is also where he filmed his movie Deadpool 2, so he enjoys taking Lively here with him.

Paris

Paris
Photo by Patrick Nouhailler

After finishing up her work on the Gossip Girl set in December 2012, Lively, along with her husband, Reynolds, flew to Paris, where they were spotted kissing on the Pont des Arts Bridge.

Hawaii

Hawaii Big Island

In April 2017, the two took a vacation to one of the gorgeous Hawaiian islands.

Ireland

Above you’ll see some shots from their 2019 Ireland trip.

Hope you enjoyed this post! If so, please like and subscribe.

-xo, Nicole (:

5 Fantastic U.S. Destinations To Visit In January

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

Phoenix, Arizona

Photo by Thalia Perla on Pexels.com


If you’re looking to escape the cold of winter, Phoenix, Arizona would be a great location for you to visit. It has, perhaps, the best weather in January, with the average temperature being in the 70s.

Aspen, Colorado

Photo by Terry Agar on Pexels.com

Contrarily, if you would like to visit a ski resort town, Aspen, Colorado would likely be a good fit. Whether you’re a beginner or nearly a professional, Aspen will have a place for you!

Palm Springs, California

Photo by Leah Kelley on Pexels.com

Palm Springs, California will provide you with 70 degree weather and sunshine in the month of January. It’s perfect for taking a hike or lounging by the pool.

Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas
Photo by Sergiy Galyonkin

If you’re looking to avoid crowds and relax in warm weather, Austin, Texas is the way to go at this time of year.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley, Idaho
Photo by Chalky Lives

Another popular resort town would be Sun Valley, Idaho. Even celebrities such as Arnold Schwarzeneggar and Ashton Kutcher own vacation homes in that city.

Thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

How To Spot Gwyneth Paltrow and Lucy Hale in Paris

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

Ever wonder where celebrities visit while they’re in Paris?

Well, Bradley Cooper has been known to stay at luxurious Villa La Coste in Provence. The Villa Tropicale 4-bedroom suite is equipped with a video projector, heated pool on a spacious deck with plenty of seating, and even a grassy area with a set of swings.

Meanwhile, Rita Ora has been seen at Hotel de Crillon. The largest suite is the L’Ecrivain, which features a minibar, private balcony, soaking tub, and entertainment including streaming services.

When it comes to dining, Gwyneth Paltrow seems to enjoy lunch at La Dome Cafe. Leonardo Di Caprio eats his dinner at Le Sourire de Saigon. And both Jessica Alba and Lana Del Ray have been to a corner bistro called L’Avenue.

As for shopping, Mariah Carey and Halle Berry can be found at The Golden Triangle. This is made up of three streets in the shape of a triangle, with high-end designers including Valentino and Armani.

Another popular place to spot to catch a celebrity would be at a fashion event.

Lucy Hale attended the Miu Miu Fashion Show in October of 2021.

Emma Watson and Hunter Schafer were at the Schiaparelli Fashion Show just a little over a week ago.

Bella Hadid and Gigi Hadid were both in the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in March of 2022.

Good luck and thanks for the read!

-xo, Nicole (:

Where I Want My Next Tropical Destination To Be & Why

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

I personally LOVE the beach. Staying in an all-inclusive resort on a white sand beach, with a view of the sparkling blue water is pretty much all I dream about. And having the option to stay in an over-the-water bungalow would be an amazing bonus! Therefore, my next destination of choice would have to be Montego Bay, Jamaica.

About

Montego Bay, located in the northwest portion of the Jamaican island, is full of resorts, beaches, and some golf courses. It is a popular vacation destination for tourists, as it is full of natural beauty, lively nightlife, shops, and activities. On average, the temperature is between 72 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for taking a dip in the ocean or the pool.

Attractions

  • Doctor Cave’s Beach
  • Luminous Lagoon Glistening Waters
  • Chukka’s Jungle Outpost – includes river rafting/or ziplining
  • Sam Sharpe Square
  • Aqua-Sol Theme Park
  • Cornwall Beach
  • Main Street Jamaica
  • Gloucester Avenue – includes dining, stores, and art galleries
  • ATV/Jeep safaris
  • Water sports – snorkeling, sailing, fishing,
  • Whitter Village Shopping Mall
  • 876 Beach Club
  • Horseback riding/swimming
  • Montego Bay Marine Park

All-Inclusive Resorts

Sandals Royal Caribbean

SeaGarden Beach Resort

Secrets Wild Orchid

Zoetry Montego Bay

Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa

Food

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville

Rick’s Cafe

Usain Bolt’s Track & Records

The Houseboat Grill

Pier One

Marguerites

Sugar Mill

Scotchies

The Pork Pit

Well, if my blog didn’t convince you to plan a getaway to Jamaica, I’m not sure what will!

Thanks for reading (:

-xo, Nicole

An Inside Look at L.A.

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

Personal experience

Over 6 years ago, I took a trip to the City of Angels, or more widely known as, Los Angeles, California. My AirBnB was in a prime location of West Hollywood, just steps to the Walk of Fame. Within the week that I was there, some of the major attractions that I hit were the Griffith Observatory, with a view of the infamous “Hollywood” sign to my left, the Santa Monica Pier, Koreatown, and the Grove. And yes, of course, I had to try In N’ Out Burger. Besides West Hollywood, I took transportation to and from North Hollywood and Anaheim. In Anaheim, I attended the annual Vidcon event, as I was in two YouTube Collab groups at the time. While at the event, I met popular YouTube stars including Christian Collins, Maggie Lindemann, Arden Rose, Lauren Giraldo, and Zachary Piona. I had an overall great vacation in Los Angeles and am looking forward to eventually going back again.

About L.A.

Located in Southern California, Los Angeles has the most amazing weather, especially when I visited in July. During that time, it was, on average, 75 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny, every day. The coldest month there is January, and even then, the weather only drops down to roughly 55 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you want to avoid larger crowds, you may want to try to go between March and May or between September and November. For specifically going to the beaches, July or August would be recommended.

L.A. is the biggest city in the state, consisting of over 500 square miles. There are a total of 88 smaller cities just within that metropolitan area.

Favorite Tourist Attractions

  • Runyon Canyon – This is where you may have a chance to spot a celebrity on a hike. Justin Bieber, Channing Tatum, and Natalie Portman have been seen here before.
  • Griffith Park – Being 5x larger than Central Park in New York City, it contains a planetarium/observatory, golf courses, zoo, train rides, tennis courts, trails, and the Bronson Caves, where the Batman series took place. This park, and Lake Hollywood Park, are likely the greatest places to observe the Hollywood sign.
  • Universal Studios – Found in the San Fernando Valley region is this 425 acre theme park and film studio. There are tours with attractions there, based on movies, including Jaws and the Fast and Furious franchise. If you are a Harry Potter fan, you need to check out the “Wizarding World of Harry Potter” area within the park. Get tickets here.
  • Disneyland – Based off of Disney-themed movies, it is nearly impossible to not have fun spending the day at the Disneyland park in Anaheim.
  • Santa Monica – This coastal city, beach, and pier, home to the end of Route 66, overlooks the Pacific Ocean.
  • Sunset Boulevard – This iconic strip is 22 miles long. You will probably want to explore the stretch between North Crescent Heights Blvd and Doheny Drive, where the stores and nightlife are. Along the boulevard are tourist stops, like the Roxy Theater, where Bob Marley recorded live albums, and The Comedy Store, where Jerry Seinfeld has performed.
  • Rodeo Drive – This Beverly Hills road is known for its designer boutiques, Armani, Cartier, and Coco Chanel, to name a few. Britney Spears, P. Diddy, Paris Hilton, and Jack Black are some of many public figures who shop here.
  • Warner Bros. Studio – Here, you can purchase tickets to take a tour of the studio where the hit TV shows Friends and The Big Bang Theory were shot.
  • Beaches – Huntington, Venice, Laguna, and Malibu are among the highest-rated beaches on the Southern California coastline.
  • Hollywood Blvd – Along this lively street, you can find the Walk of Fame, with approximately 2500 Hollywood star’s names on it. Plus, the Kodak Theater is where the Academy Awards are held annually. And let’s not forget about the TCL Chinese Theater, the location at which the Stars Wars franchise premiered back in 1977.
  • Capital Records – Intended to look like a stack of vinyl records set on a turntable, this building is the studio in which Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole have recorded songs.
  • Guided Tour – Ride in a vehicle and take pictures of celebrity homes in Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills.

Most Luxurious Hotels in Los Angeles

The Peninsula

The Hollywood Roosevelt

Beverly Hills Hotel

Hotel Bel-Air

The Maybourne Beverly Hills

The Viceroy Santa Monica

The London West Hollywood

Waldorf Astoria

The W Hollywood

Where would you visit if you traveled to L.A.? Let me know in the comments below!

-xo,

Nicole

2021 Gift Guide for Travelers

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

Know an avid traveler that you need to purchase a present for this holiday season? I’ve got you covered! Here are 10 excellent gift ideas that you can buy online.

Bucket List Journal


Adventure Fund Box

Scratch the World Travel Map


Airline Giftcard


Digital Luggage Scale


Adjustable Travel Pillow

Luggage Tags

Travel Journal Cards


Destination of a Lifetime Book


Packing List Notepad

I hope this post helped you out!

Thanks for the read 🙂

-xo, Nicole

Popular International Spots for Beyoncé, Nina Dobrev, and Zac Efron

Posted on by Nicole Benedetta

Saint Tropez, France

St tropez Riva
Photo – JimsBack

Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Campbell, Beyoncé and Jay Z are among some of the A-list celebrities who have traveled to the coastal town of Saint Tropez, located in the French Riviera. 

Hawaii

Hawaii
Photo by Erik Cooper

Nina Dobrev, Billie Eilish, Owen Wilson, Selena Gomez, Jason Mamoa have visited one of the gorgeous Hawaiian islands before. 

Aspen, CO

Photo – Perfect Zero

The Kardashain/Jenner family, Mariah Carey, and Rebel Wilson have all hit the slopes in the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. 

Bora Bora

Bora Bora
Photo by Benoit Mahe

Courtney Cox, Keith Urban, and Halle Berry have taken a trip to this blue-water paradise in French Polynesia. 

Dubai 

Dubai
Photo by Michaela Loheit

A few well-known stars who have been to this luxurious city on the Persian Gulf are Zac Efron, Will Smith, and David Guetta. 

The Hamptons

2007 - The hamptons
Photo by Jens Karlsson

The Hamptons is a place where many celebrities actually own vacation homes, such as Neil Patrick Harris, Anderson Cooper, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Brooke Shields. 

Los Cabos, Mexico

Great Taxi Ride in Cabo
Photo by Carolyn Savell

The cast of The Hills, including Lauren Conrad, Audrina Patridge, and Brody Jenner shot an episode of the show in Los Cabos. Oprah Winfrey and Cameron Diaz are among others to have been here as well. 

Lake Como, Italy

Varenna, Lake Como, Italy

Another location where multiple celebrities have homes is Lake Como. A couple of them are Madonna, George Clooney, and Johnny Depp. 


Thanks for the read! 🙂

-xo, Nicole