One Day in V-A Beach

The Break Down: 
Fly Into | Norfolk International Airport
Stay | Beach Spa Bed and Breakfast; Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront 
Play | Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Atlantic Fun Park, A Day Fishing Trip; Rent a Bike
See | Cape Henry Lighthouse; Sandbridge Beach
Eat | Blue Seafood and Spirits, Tautogs Restaurant, Catch 31
Drink | Waterman's Surfside Grille (Grab a "Crush"); Back Bay Brewing Co.

So, sometimes, you just want to get away. Chill with your family. But you don't want to travel far... This was the case this past weekend when my sister and I hopped on 95 South and headed down to Virginia Beach. Now don't go guest-stimating where I live, but it was about, enh, a four and half hour drive. We hit the beach, some restos, got some dranks, saw the famous Cape Henry Lighthouse, Sandbridge Beach, did a beer tour at Back Bay Brewing Co., and rolled out to one of our FAVORITE amusement parks... Busch Gardens Williamsburg. 

Now this isn't an in-depth post, just a little quicky to give you an idea of some spots you can hit if you ever decide you and bae, or you and your girls need a little quick weekend away. This kind of only applies to my D-M-V or eastcoast based readers, unless my post inspires you sooo much that you want to make a week out of it. But never fear! I'll have some day jaunts for you west coast based readers, as B and I will be taking a road trip to Sedona this coming weekend. Enjoy your day!

- Angel

Fishing in Fairhope

The Break Down: 
Fly Into | Pensacola International Airport
Stay | Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa
Play | Downtown Fairhope
Eat | Grand Steakhouse; Shux on the Pier
Drink | Bucky's Birdcage Lounge; Sunset Pointe
Sun | Orange Beach

I'm definitely a woman who enjoys being outdoors; hiking, camping, rock climbing, zip lining - I'm a natural bucolic thrill seeker. But my duality is that I love laying on a soft, 420-count Egyptian Cotton sheet set, a crisp, smooth glass of Sauvignon Blanc, and sunset sail through the ocean. And guess what? Fairhope, Alabama - with it's secret southern charm, perfectly fulfills and exceeds my dual wanderlust. 

I was told to keep it a secret, I can understand why it's residents would want to keep it's southern waterfront-goodness to themselves. I mean imagine a luxe beach/fishing town, with gorgeous pre-war stately homes, antique and boutique shops galore, huge, Southern Live Oaks that seemingly touch the skyline, all against the backdrop of an ocean basin who's water rivals Miami's. Okay, I think I've painted enough of a picture. 

My boyfriend (from herein, "B") and I headed down to Fairhope, AL for a fishing trip - one of his favorite pastimes, for the weekend. Of course I was excited to immerse myself in something he loves so much, but my Katniss, apocalyptic-nature-woman interest was peaked just as much at the prospect of catching, and then eating our food! Omg.

We flew into the Pensacola International Airport. His long time friend picked us up from the airport and we set off to Fairhope. Along the way we stopped off at a dope restaurant called The Fish House - where I had great "Fish House Punch," and shrimp and grits. We proceeded to our hotel, the historical and bucolic Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa. This hotel deserves a post of it's own -- but I won't. The quick is that it was built in 1847 and after many iterations of itself became the grand, luxury, 405-suite, bay front resort that it is today. We settled in, grabbed drinks, and got ready for the next day of fishing to come. 

B's friend set us up with an amazing two-day adventure, the first - fishing inshore with an awesome angler named Captain Skylar Beagle. We left at about 5:00am, set out from the pier at our hotel, and went about 8 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. We caught tons and tons (and by we, I mean, my man, who just happens to be an amazingly dope, and skilled fishermen) Spotted Sea Trout (I caught at least four of these particular joints), Tripletail, Atlantic Spanish Mackerel, and a huge Redfish (which we threw back because I was advised that it would be a big bloody mess inside, when it weighs in at over 30 pounds).

After coming to Skylar's rustic and beautiful crafted dock in Week's Bay so that he could fillet and wash the best cuts of the fish for us, we headed back to the hotel. Dinner at the Grand Steakhouse with B's friends consisted of a delicious fried Red Snapper, dirty rice and beans. Yum! The next day we fished offshore with Captain Joey, caught a huge Red Snapper and grouper, and then stopped at Tacky Jack's for the BEST spiked milkshake I've ever had, they called it, "Tacky Jack's Famous Bushwacker." 

That night, we feasted on the fish we'd caught the day before, brussel sprouts, cheese grits (which I'll definitely post a recipe for soon,) carrot cake, and more. Needless to say, the southern hospitality and warmth at the dinner table made my heart smile - and I mean that in the sappiest way possible. 

Fairhope, with it's charming people, fishing prowess, warm countenance, turquoise waters, unique boutiques, and unbelievably good food is definitely one of the South's best kept secrets. It's a must visit -- just don't tell the folks there, I told ya' so. 

- Angel 

Wanderlust of the Week: Chile's EcoCamp Patagonia

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Thinking about backpacking through Patagonia? Nah, okay. Even if it wasn't on your bucket list of places to visit because you aren't the perpetual nature lover like me, this dope eco-camp, that makes camping look glamourous may change your mind.

Scene set: A brilliant night, cloudless, with stars and constellation gleaming above. Awe-inspiring snow capped granite mountains, lush greenery and pristine waterways surround you. Nestled in this unearthly wilderness is EcoCamp Patagonia, an award-winning sustainable lodge in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you can appreciate nature up close and personal while still enjoying luxurious amenities like polar fleece sheets, woolen blankets, feather quilts, gourmet fare, yoga instruction and tons more. The suits are individual octagonal domes, ranging from one bedroom, to two-floor loft style domes. The dopest part about the lodge is when you book your stay, your package includes tours, food and other amenities for your maximum nature enjoyment. 

Staying at the EcoCamp, you'll come across travelers with varying levels of hiking aptitude. Even if you're a novice, the lodge will set up hikes ranging from easy to strenuous, so that may fully enjoy Chile's bucolic scenery. 

I'll be hitting this place in May. Let me know if you're down.

- Angel
 

Cabin Fever: Ten Cold Weather Cabin Getaways

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I think everyone on the east coast (and the south really) is ready to defrost from this harsh winter. But until mother nature decides to turn her thermostat the other way, why don't you get cabin fever with me? No, I don't mean go stir crazy in the house because you want to get out. I mean check out these beautiful, bucolic (you'll see me use that word a lot) cabins where you can getaway, and enjoy all that nature has to offer. 

1. The Rocky Mountains, Colorado
If you love snow sports, snow-covered peaks, luxury chalets and high fashion cold weather wear, then staying in a cabin in the Rocky Mountains is the choice for you. From Aspen to Glenwood Springs, Florissant, to Estes Park - there's a mountain cabin waiting for whatever taste you have. 

2. Lake Michigan
Along the Western coast of Michigan are over 200 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, and plenty of beach cabins to enjoy it from. Check for cabin rentals in Manistee, Silver Lake, Grand Haven, Frankfort and other beach towns for your opportunity to enjoy the sand and shore.

3. Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
Shenandoah Valley isn't just one of my favorite places to visit because it's close to home, but because it's gorgeous Shenandoah National Park offers tons of miles of hiking, history and some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the east coast. My favorite town to stay in is Rileyville. It offers unobstructed views of the Blue Ridge Mountains without tons of neighbors. Check out the video of my visit below. 

4. Lake Tahoe, California
Many lists of cabin vacations always include the Lake Tahoe area, which includes both California and Nevada. This location is great any time of year. You can enjoy water activities in the summer and a beautiful stroll along the shore in the winter.

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
A stay in one of the beautiful cabins in Gatlinburg, Tennessee puts you right on the cusp of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Take a hike to view wildlife, fish in one of the many lakes and streams, and explore the beautiful waterfalls.

6. Ozark Mountains, Missouri
Known as “The Ozarks” by locals, a trip to southwestern Missouri means great entertainment, lake fun and exploring nature. The most popular destination for a cabin vacation in the area is Branson, but other great spots include Table Rock Lake and Lake of the Ozarks.

7. Asheville, North Carolina
Listed as one of the top 100 cities to live in by Relocate-America in 2007, 2008 and 2010, Asheville, North Carolina is a prime cabin vacation destination. The view is picturesque, to say the least, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy.

8. North Georgia Mountains
Northern Georgia boasts being the site of the first U.S. gold rush and the first home of Native Americans, not to mention a great place to stay for cabin vacations. Check out destinations like Blue Ridge, Ellijay and Helen.

9. Mount Rainier, Washington
Mount Rainier is an active composite volcano 54 miles southeast of Seattle. A cabin vacation here gives you the opportunity to enjoy both the outdoors and Seattle’s city life.

10. Big Bear Lake, California
Located two hours east of Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake offers great cabin vacations in Southern California. Enjoy skiing and other snow sports in the winter and great lake activities in the summer.

Where ever you choose, these cabins will give you a chance to getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, jobs, boos, whatever is stressing you. Looking at these slices of heaven makes me want to make that trip right now, how about you? 

Have any other cabins you've been to that need to be added to the list? Let me know in the comments below!

- Angel 

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Wanderlust of the Week - Katikies Hotel in Santorini

So yeah, I’ll definitely be flying to Greece’s better weather for my birthday, and here’s where you’ll find me. 

Found in the gorgeous village of Oia in Santorini rests Katikies Hotel; a stunning hideaway located 100 meters above the incandescent Caldera of Santorini. Just so y’all know, a caldera is a body of water that has been formed inside a hole made by the collapse of land following a volcanic eruption. Don’t worry, this one is long extinct. Nerd moment over. 

Boasting two award winning infinity pools, an amazing hot tub nestled inside a finished cave, three restaurants and caldera-view suites with all-white every-thang decor, this is what heaven must look like. Katikies is built in the traditional Greek Cycladic style, with walls made of white clay, wooden bridges and olive trees. 

Listen, all that aside, just know, you have to go. Don’t be afraid to drool over the pictures above, they’re certainly thirst worthy. 

Wanderlust Away,

- A

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