Travel Archives - Page 3 of 8

Jardin des Tuileries et Musée de l’Orangerie

January 22, 2018 by Emily 2 Comments

I get period-level emotional thinking about Paris. Like, ~~I just have something in my eye~~ severely miss it. I know I know, more cliché please. Probably why it took me three months to even look at the photos being held hostage on my SD card.

These were taken on one of our warmest days of that sweet, sweet October jaunt to watch two of my dearest dears tie the knot. We agreed to skip museums and just BE here this time around, but once we stumbled into the Tuileries, I couldn’t walk by Musée de l’Orangerie without ~~popping in~~ an hour and a half stop.

Oh, haha, just remembered I also full on cried in this museum too. My grandparents had a Water Lilies print in their home when I was growing up, yet how were the poor spectating tourists wondering why the American girl was having a minor meltdown in an entirely silent room supposed to know that?

And because a flutter tee + ruffle skirt combo are exactly what you need to be seeing for some outfit inspiration in January, here you are. Ignore knobby knees, unbrushed hair, bandaids, and ~~all dogs in background~~ never mind, they’re the real reason you’re still here.

I’ll be back with ~~a shootload of door photos~~ more shots of the city soon!

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Harbor State of Mind: A Weekend at Portland Harbor Hotel

November 16, 2017 by Emily Leave a Comment

This is the time of year when I tend to fall into a bit of a seasonal slump. I’m out of my busy season, and my body and mind don’t really understand the shift. The whole 80-degrees-in-October bit is over, and I’m freezing. And it gets dark at FOUR. FREAKING. PM. Agree, Januaryfebruarymarch is far worse, but coming off a summer and September high always feels especially draining. I just can’t drink the fall ~~pumpkin spice~~ koolaid.

So, a November weekend jaunt to Portland, Maine arrived at an especially welcome time.

Being just about two hours from Boston, Portland is definitely a city we should be getting to more than once every two years. Because it’s a doable day trip, we’d never put much thought into doing more than such, but after cozying up for a full weekend there, I have a new love and appreciation for the city. An absolutely perfect stay at the Portland Harbor Hotel just miiiight have contributed to that.

[ stay ]

If you’ve been comin ’round this blog for long enough, you know we often opt for small inns and B&Bs when we take on the New England coastline, simply out of habit. But a HOTEL, goodness was this a fun and mind-blowingly comfortable change of scenery.

I think I’d be happy most anywhere there’s a king size bed and fluffy hotel pillows {what are those and how has no one ever been able to replicate them?}, but the Portland Harbor Hotel in Portland’s Old Port District was truly something special, and you realize that from the moment you step into the lobby, with a design that radiates both modern and classic New England. I’ve always admired designers who are able to create a coastal aesthetic without the use of anchors and other overt motifs, and it certainly checks that box. If you ever find yourself scrolling far back in the shell chic’d archives, you will see it took me a bit too long to learn that myself. Unfortunately.

Our room housed a jacuzzi I would have happily slept in, but the bed was also softer than cotton candy so it was a tough toss-up. I’m also partial to lodging that offers lounges and coffee bars, so I you can bet your bottom dollar I enjoyed a week’s worth of caffeine over two days just so I could continue ~~playing with~~ utilizing the Starbucks digital barista machine.

It’s the kind of hotel you just don’t want to get up and leave. I was not-so-secretly veryyyy grateful for some wet and gray weather, giving us the excuse to stay inside and full take advantage of the cozy but chic guestroom, spa-like bathroom half the size of our house, and meals at BlueFin North Atlantic Seafood downstairs.

[ play ]

I thought amenities like bike rentals were only found on Nantucket, but no siree – Portland Harbor Hotel offers them to all guests, complimentary too! In a quick break from the rain, we used these to scoot around town and see both the West and East Ends, and views from the Eastern Promenade.

Rain or shine, Portland Head Light will always be one of my favorites, and that’s a lot coming from the girl who’s visited upwards of 25 #andcounting.

While I preferred shopping over eating on this particular trip, Gus & Ruby Letterpress and ALAINA MARIE are two new favorites I’m happy to add to this list.

And no trip to Maine is complete without some form of interaction with L.L.Bean – the flagship is just about a 20-minute drive North in Freeport.

[ eat ]

I didn’t know that Portland is considered “America’s foodiest small town” before this trip, but I certainly see why now. Town felt so quiet all weekend, yet the restaurants themselves were BUMPIN’. Two hour wait at Duckfat? Sure.

BlueFin North Atlantic Seafood // Formerly Eve’s at the Garden, BlueFin North Atlantic Seafood is an incredible seafood restaurant attached to Portland Harbor Hotel. My husband is never one to order a lobster roll, but I’m pretty positive he’d drive the 4-hour round trip to Portland right now if it meant another bit of their creative Lobster Popover. I was also #thatgirl who continued begging for bread so I could finish every last scoop of their incredible Smoked Fish Dip.

BlueFin North Atlantic Seafood images courtesy of Jessica Beebe Photography

We had no intention of leaving post-dinner & moved our dranks on over to one of the restaurant’s cozy lounge areas. Had I been more prepared with an actual winter coat {#resist}, we would have taken advantage of the outdoor fire pit. I can’t even begin to imagine how gorgeous that patio must be in the summer, and a chance to eat out there certainly seems to warrant a return trip. Even if you can’t swing dinner, I highly recommend visiting BlueFin North Atlantic Seafood for a couple cocktails, if nothing else. And if you’re staying at Portland Harbor Hotel, don’t miss their breakfast either.

Eventide Oyster Co. // I can absolutely tell you that Eventide was worth the wait. And I was HANGRY, so that’s saying a lot. The Brown Butter Lobster roll fell from Heaven, and I’ll give 5 stars to anyone willing to serve me a dry rosé in November. I also received many recs for its sisters restaurants, Hugo’s and The Honey Paw.

Tandem Coffee Roasters // Marble tables, cute cups. #doitforthegram

The Holy Donut // I’m going to get a lot of smack for this, but I do think The Holy Donut might just be overrated. Then again, I’m spoiled by Union Square, so unless you are also frequently graced by the presence USD Salted Caramel Bourbon deliciousness, you can add The Holy Donut to your list.

If you’re looking for an any-season getaway–and you’ve instilled your trust in me–Portland, Maine comes highly recommended. Thank you Portland Harbor Hotel for an incredible stay, and Mother Nature for choosing to rain on each and every one of our trips – this time, it was welcome.

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Full Disclosure: I received a complimentary hotel stay and meal from Portland Harbor Hotel for the purpose of this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

A Weekend in Woodstock

October 27, 2017 by Emily 5 Comments

True life: I feel claustrophobic when I’m too far from a body of water. Seaside towns are my destination of choice, and there’s a reason I chose Boston over any other East Coast city.

But MJF requested Vermont for a little fall getaway, and what the birthday boy wants the birthday boy gets…especially seeing as he took me to Nantucket for my 25th despite ~~his better judgement~~ a blizzard warning.

With a little help from Twitterverse, we chose Woodstock for its proximity to home (just about a three hour’s drive from Boston), easy hiking trails, and sweet downtown. Discovering the Simon Pearce flagship one town over was the cherry on top.

[ stay ]
While most opt for The Woodstock Inn {basic biddies}, we stayed at the Farmhouse Inn and could not have been happier. Everything about it radiated New England quaintness, from the river flowing beneath our window to the chickens outside and breakfast that was cooked with entirely local ingredients {local as in, I don’t think anything came from more than a mile away}.

Most alluring though has to be the gorgeous red barn, where Farmhouse Inn owners Tory & Barry now host weddings. Should any of you click that link, fall in love with this beautiful enchanting rustic palace and book it, you must understand that I expect an invitation.

[ play ]
If we’re being honest, I was most excited for the cheese and syrup. Visit Sugarbush Farm for incredible tastings of both, and explore their darling farm too. For another healthy helping of local yums, bring your appetite and your grocery bags to Woodstock Farmers’ Market.

You must know my hiking abilities are limited and I’m scared of all heights above a third floor balcony, so we stuck to the easy Faulkner Trail on Mount Tom, which albeit its ease still offered heavenly views. The kind that a photo won’t do justice for, so you’re just going to have to trust me.

Though also not ideal for those allergic to heights, the Quechee Gorge truly is a stunning sight and just a short drive out of town.

[ eat ]

Mon Vert Cafe // We ate in town at Mon Vert Cafe twice and I would have been happy with a third and fourth time. On account of my upcoming very overdue dentist visit with fear of an inevitable root canal, I skipped the Butterbeer Latte, but goodness gracious I hope you enjoy it for the both of us.

The Mill at Simon Pearce // Albeit pricey, the Simon Pearce restaurant is worth every penny for the experience. Sitting right on the Ottauquechee River, you’ve got a side of a waterfall and one of Vermont’s signature covered bridges alongside dinner. Be sure to leave time to watch the glassblowers in the downstairs workshop, and shop the Seconds room, where you can find authentic Simon Pearce pieces with undetectable glitches at hiiiighly better prices.

What can I say? You won my heart, VT.

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Bunkin’ in Kennebunkport

August 18, 2017 by Emily 1 Comment

This is a true Throwback Thursday because wowowow I cannot BELIEVE this trip was four months ago already! TB-perfectly-H, it’s been a real crap summer, so I’m trying to do the big-girl thing and reflect on all the fun that went down,* namely, our second wedding anniversary trip to Kennebunkport, Maine.

In standard Fanning fashion, we planned a trip for the shoulder season, late April to be exact. Businesses were just opening for the spring {three cheers for those who stay open year-round}, and the room rates were clutch.

Minus an incredible sunset, the weather was fifty shades of gray, so photos aren’t doing this sweet harbor town justice. Hopefully this briefing will.

[ stay ]

The Kennebunkport Inn // Part of the Kennebunkport Resort Collection, the Kennebunkport Inn is New England charm at its finest {how many times have I claimed that?}. I would have been perfectly happy sitting between our sweet room, cozy lounges, and the perfectly situated outdoor deck all weekend. This is the kind of hotel that almost makes you wish for some rain clouds.

The Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club // Updated August 2018 – click here to read about my stay at the YHMC!

[ play ]

Snug Harbor Farm // #abmplantlady on CRACK. This place is downright magical, and more than worth the few minutes’ drive out of town. Greenhouses! Succulents! Chickens! Someone please get married in this magical enchanting garden farm and don’t forget my invitation.

[ shop ]

Farm + Table // Find the creators, makers, shakers in this stunning shop filled with gems from all across the country. Cannot W8 to show you what we picked up for our home!!!

Antiques on Nine // A MASSIVE treasure chest, filled with goodies old and new.

[ eat ]

Mabel’s Lobster Claw // They say this is where you’ll find Bush Senior’s favorite lobster roll, and that his secret service team will still come by to pick up takeout!

David’s KPT // Do. Not. Miss. happy hour on the deck here. No reservations, so plan accordingly kiddos.
Updated August 2018: David’s is now The Boathouse – read my review here!

The Burleigh // Right inside the Kennebunkport Inn, tapas with a side of live music at The Burleigh were a perfect welcome.

Boulangerie // I met up with darling Jackie at this sweet bakery, over the river in Kennebunk. Take note, though:: They wrap up at noon on Sundays & are closed on Mondays!

Rococo Ice Cream // Goat Cheese Blackberry Chambord. Maine Whoopie Pie. Olive Oil Rosemary Caramel. I would one-hundred percent return to KPT just so I could try another of these whacky handcrafted flavors.

Honorary Mention:: Roma Pizza // MJF and I had full intentions of going out for a nice dinner on our last night, but rosé in hand, we couldn’t bear to get up from the deck at our inn. When 8:45 hit and we still hadn’t eater, Roma Pizza came to the rescue. And it was so. worth. it.

Till next time, Maineiacs.

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The Daytrip Diaries: Sailing into Newburyport

June 6, 2017 by Emily 1 Comment

MJF and I often chat about how if we were absolutely FORCED to trade in the city for the ‘burbs, Newburyport is where we would head. It feels like a small city of its own {my wallet has definitely helped the local economy}, and ya can’t beat the views son.

We drove up there on a record-cold Memorial Day to catch the end of three tall ships’ stay in town. Docked behind the Custom House Maritime Museum to celebrate Maritime Days, these beauties were opened to the public for the weekend, and shoutout to the crew who definitely let me overstay my welcome.

We had a wave of deja vu stepping onto The Alabama–the same ship we took a sunset sail on during our very first trip to Martha’s Vineyard together. Hashtag young love.

Ooh let’s chat about my outfit for a sec, d’you mind? My most-comfortable-ever kicks are the latest edition to my Keds collection (c/o), and they were designed by a local beaut by the name of Alaina Marie. Inspired by “the sea’s working waterfront,” they were the perfect choice for a day on the ships. Boat shoes are so last year.

Haven’t heard of her work? Get on that—and shop her limited edition Keds here.

My new sunnies (c/o) are from another company I’m feeling pretty passionate about these days:: DIFF Eyewear. For every pair of glasses purchased, they donate a pair of reading glasses to someone in need. Doesn’t sound much like a luxury to us, but they are virtually unattainable in so many other parts of the world. I’m also so excited to give you 25% off your pair with code EMILYSHELL. Try limiting yourself to just one. It’s not gonna work.

These ships have unfortunately sailed for the season, but they’ll be back next year! Keep up with Shop Newburyport & the Custom House Maritime Museum to be the first to know.

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SHOP THE POST::

Full disclosure:: I received two complimentary tour tickets for the purpose of this review.

You Blue Me Away:: A Weekend on Plum Island with Lark Hotels

February 21, 2017 by Emily 4 Comments

I’m dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s on this post in the wake of a Hawaiian vacation. While I don’t discount the incredible time we had on said exotic escape {I can’t wait to tell you more about it later!}, relooking at my photos from a weekend in Newburyport, Massachusetts reminds me that you don’t have to go very far at all to have an I’ll-remember-it-forever kind of getaway.

I was lucky enough to spend a chilly but beautiful winter weekend in one of my favorites towns at Lark Hotels’ Blue – Inn on the Beach with a darling group of bloggers, photographers, writers, and creatives last month. Being surrounded by such inspiring and creative women in the serene setting of Blue and its accompanying beach was pure bliss. January wasn’t a walk in the park, but for better or worse, I quite instantly forgot about the crap weather and crap government and crap alternative facts upon my arrival.

Sorry! Back to the point.

If you aren’t familiar with Lark Hotels already, I’d like to change that. These little buds of boutique hotels are popping up all around New England, and they are far from your mother’s bed-and-breakfast. Each has the most subtle of a theme, and to say Director of Design Rachel Reider has done an incredible job of bringing them to life would be a gross understatement. I’ve been wanting to visit a property based on design alone ever since I read about my friend Kate’s trip to Gilded in Newport.

Blue is a serene escape on Plum Island—less than an hour from Boston—sitting right up against the Atlantic. In all my 28 years, I’ve never been more motivated to wake up for a sunset. Its interiors are equally as tranquil—everything you’d want in an oceanside abode, without bordering overdone. No anchors or garish nautical motifs here.

And the food! Oh we were treated to some of the best meals {and snacks!} I’ve enjoyed in ages, including a dinner by Justin Perdue, Executive Chef for Lark Hotels. Whether you choose to stay in one of these sweet retreats or not, you should make a point to try one of Chef Perdue’s restaurants, like Pig + Poet in Camden, Maine, or Picnic Social in Stowe, Vermont.

While Blue isn’t home to its own on-site restaurant, Newburyport’s downtown is less than a 10-minute drive over the bridge, and I’ve chatted about a couple of my favorite NBPT eateries before. Now add The Paddle Inn to that list; I loved its coastal-inspired menu and awesome staff so much that I dragged MJF back for brunch the morning he picked me up post-stay.

Speaking of eats, I felt like I was in the presence of greatness all weekend alongside some of the Yankee magazine team. We spent Saturday learning how to curate the perfect New England party spread with Senior Food Editor Amy Traverso {I totally fangirled} and food stylist Krissy O’Shea. All of the treats you see photographed here were winners of Yankee’s Editors’ Choice Food Awards. I’m still dreaming about York Hill Farm‘s chévre.

While so much of New England is seasonal {or so they say–I’ve been known to brave blizzards for Nantucket jaunts}, Plum Island is an island for all seasons. Whether I was cozied up with a breakfast basket in front of my fireplace, taking a winter beach walk with Gabi & Gabby, or soaking in the views from the Blue Suite over some wine and ~~politics~~ girl talk, I couldn’t have pictured a more perfect place for a January staycation. You want to beat the winter blues? You need a stay at Blue.

[ Blue – The Inn on the Beach ]
20 Fordham Way
Plum Island, Massachusetts
978.463.6128
click here to book

See more of our weekend away on Instagram:: #OnALarkWithYankee

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Full disclosure: I was provided a complimentary stay at Blue by Lark Hotels. All opinions and images are my own.

I Want To Go On Adventures, I Think.

October 21, 2016 by Emily 7 Comments

We have a tendency to stick to the beaten path when it comes to planning our New England weekend trips. Nantucket. Portland. The Cape. We might as well be on a tour bus.

Then my husband, bless his quiet nature-loving soul, got his heart set on a new destination…one people side eyed when I told them it was where I was taking MJF for his birthday. Monhegan Island, not even a square mile in size, sits 10 miles off the coast of Maine. No cars, no paved roads, no booze. It feels like a cross between traveling back in time, the beginning of a horror movie, and a Wes Anderson movie.

It was incredible in its perfectly weird own way.

For being so small and having nothing that resembles any sort of “downtown” {or town at all, for that matter}, Monhegan Island has no shortage of activities. I get squeamish at the word “hike,” but even I loved the wooded trails we took, from edge to edge of the island. The seaside views didn’t hurt, nor the sweet fairy houses we found in said woods.

You’ll want to stop by the Monhegan Island Brewing Company taproom, and then continue on the dirt path down to Lobster Cove and the sight of a 1948 shipwreck.

You can stroll through the artists’ colony! Take advantage of the open studio hours and you’ll get to witness many of the artists in action.

And if you happen to visit during an election year, you can battle your fellow guests at the inn for WiFi and embark on a 90-minute struggle to livestream the Presidential Debates from your phone.

Count me in for this beautiful weirdness—now how do I get there?

Step one, wait until next May. Unfortunately for you, I scooted off the island on the last ferry of the season on Columbus Day. I ain’t exaggerating when I say the island shuts way way down in October. Like, the hotel and dining staff left with us. #TTYL

Catch a ferry from Booth Bay Harbor, Point Clyde, or New Harbor, Maine. It’s about an hour and a half’s ride, and you’re going to want to hold on tight with some Dramamine.

Unless you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll want to stay at The Island Inn, just steps up the hill from the ferry. Picture classic New England charm, leather lounge seats in front of a toasty fireplace, and a porch that overlooks the coast. You’ll be having dinner here as well, but as mentioned, it’s dry—grab your bottle of wine beforehand at The Barnacle general store for some BYO action.

I laugh, but it truly was a magical trip. Views that take your breath away {or that may have been me struggling with the heights}, and an air that makes you forget you’re even in the same country as the mainland you left a mere ten miles away.

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The Daytrip Diaries: Newburyport

May 25, 2016 by Emily 3 Comments

Day trip season is baaaaackkk!

These are the weekends I live for. Those that make the calamity that is New England winters worth it. Give me a six hours out of the city on a spring Sunday and I’ll be a new person come that 6am alarm Monday morning.

Now that I’m working for a small company in an industry that relies on seasonal business, I have even more of an appreciation for the stores, restaurants, and other establishments that endure the challenges of seasonality. New England Development sent me and three other fab ladies up to Newburyport last weekend to explore, shop, and eat our way through town, and while it’s not quite Nantucket-level, this is, more than not, a summer town. I’ve always been a proponent of shopping locally, but now, supporting small businesses in heavily seasonal areas is something I’ve grown increasingly passionate about.

SO, long story short, HERE is my updated Newburyport Shopping Guide! Shop small, shop local.

But first, coffee::

Plum Island Coffee Roasters // 54R Merrimac Street {in the boat yard!}
I’m quite positive that the key to happiness in life is good coffee with a great view. PIC has that. S’mores latte in Adirondacks overlooking the harbor? Sign. Me. Up.

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Sea Bags // 6 State Street
I’ve been living under a nautical rock because I only just recently discovered Sea Bags {we sell them at Shift on Nantucket!}. Made out of recycled sails–in the USA, mind you–they are such high quality, unique pieces. Setting you back about $150-250, the tote bags aren’t exactly a no-brainer, but you’ll find wristlets, coasters, wine bags, and plenty of other tempting treats at this location.

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SOAK // 7 State Street
I first visited Soak a few summers ago, and remember being overwhelmed by the kindness of this bath & body shop’s owner, Dianne. In her tiny space, she packs in a shell of a lot of product, while still offering the relaxing shopping experience that any store of this kind should be able to promise. And wait until you meet her new addition…

& Shoreline // 7 State Street
I thought SOAK was my oasis until I walked next door into its new sister store, Shoreline. Turkish towels, coastal chic decor, and the softest loungewear you’ve ever felt….if you’re ever in need of a birthday present for me I’ve left my wish list at the door.

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mk benatti jewelers // 1 State Street
Speaking of gifts for me, anyone want to send this link to my husband?

Just about every piece in this jewel box is custom made. In. The. Store. I had failed to every really think about how much fine jewelry is made overseas, and now I can appreciate owner and designer Matt Khatib’s work even more. Did I mention you can build your own ring? Read about how so with his 3D design tool and wax models…!

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Valentine’s // 12 State Street
For as many stores as it is home to, Boston hasn’t really given me a good go-to option for quick and easy–but creative and meaningful–gifts. Yet this is exactly what Valentine’s offers. It’s got your Alex & Ani. Your Mariposa. Your monogrammable goods. Baby, engagement, wedding, birthday, just-because. It’s alllllll here and then some.

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Life is Good // 8 State Street
And quirky gifts for everyone else on your list. Newburyport is home to Life is Good’s FIRST brick and mortar shop, but more than the products, I love its purpose.

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Best of British // 22 State Street
I don’t think it’s any secret that I’m a bit of an anglophile, so I feel right at home at 22 State Street. Behind its unapologetic British flags, cardboard cutouts of QE2, and royal wedding memorabilia, you’ll find Hunter boots, Barbour jackets, and a wall of Crabtree & Evelyn. Not gonna name any names, but I’ve seen products on sale here that you just don’t see mark downed anywhere…

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But where should we eat?

Oregano’s // 16 Pleasant Street
I am one of those people who believes that there is such thing as bad pizza.

Oregano’s is the furthest thing from said bad pizza.

I’m still dreaming about the above Shrimp Scampi menu item, but in addition to pizza, you’ll also find incredible pasta dishes, unique Lebanese dishes, and–possibly most importantly–an outdoor patio.

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Michael’s Harborside // One Tournament Wharf
We closed out our day with oysters and grapefruit cocktails at one of my favorite places in town–the deck at Michael’s. Don’t be put off by its reputation as one of the bigger go-to tourist spots:: there’s a reason it’s so well-loved. The gals and I walked out already planning our next trip up there for some drinks and apps at the outdoor bar.

As always, a huge thank you to New England Development and Shop Newburyport for giving me such fantastic opportunities to explore everything our little upper-right corner of America has to offer. Newburyport is just an hour north of Boston, but it feels a world away. Easy enough for a day, enough to do for a weekend, it has definitely creeped its way up on my list of favorite New England towns.

Now go say hey to Kate, Maggie, and Leigha!

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Full disclosure: I received gifts and complimentary meals as a part
of this collaboration. All opinions expressed are my own.

Vitamin Sea

May 6, 2016 by Emily 4 Comments

After a week of freezing, cliche April showers, we caught a break in the eye of the storm and spent a weekend down in lil’ Rhode Island. Thanks to a 1:30 ferry time, we had a morning to ourselves to explore the southeastern tip of the state, featuring–duh–Point Judith Lighthouse and Del’s. What more do you really need in a daytrip?

I’ll tell ya a little more about this jaunt away next week, but because you asked(?), my ferry outfit::

I feel like every year I continue to find a spring transition jacket I love more than the last, and this FatFace UK raincoat takes the trophy for 2016. The sun may have come out of hiding for a couple days, but we’re still costing with a toasty high of 52°, and this fun navy toggle coat gets the job done.

Face Face Roseanne Navy Toggle Coat & Pembroke Pointelle Jumper & Denim Boyfriend Shorts c/o | Tortoise Sunglasses | Madewell Glasgow Satchel [similar] | ALDO Brogues [similar]

I like to think the pasty pale legs add to the cool English chick look I’m going for, in case anyone’s asking.

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Four Days By the Bay

March 23, 2016 by Emily 4 Comments

San Francisco was a dream. I don’t think I realized how much of a winter slump I had fallen into until we touched down. Even in the rain [5 straight days of rain in California and you still tell me my bad weather luck is just a coincidence?], it rivaled Paris in colorful corners and photogenicity.

We had the privilege of attending the wedding of two of the kindest humans I’ve ever met, but apart from that, we had next to no plans. WANDERING man. Wandering is good for the soul. The closest thing to a guide we used was Victoria Smith–aka sfgirlbybay‘s See San Francisco book, which gave us the skinny on all of the neighborhoods we had to touch. And your suggestions! Thank you for those; they were worth it as the few places we actually mapped out ahead of time. But boy oh boy did my FitBit have a field day with our exploring. And man oh MAN those hills are not a joke.

So this is less of a travel guide than a photo diary with a few hopefully somewhat accurate points of interest…the downside to making it up as you go is not necessarily remembering where you ended up…!

If you want a true San Francisco travel blog, I suggest trusting Victoria, but I can certainly tell you where to find some prime choices for the following::

artisinal toast:: the mill
brunch:: le zinc
cookies the size of your face:: Sausalito Bakery & Cafe
cruffins, and other sweet things:: Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
[waiting in line isn’t necessary if you’re skipping the ‘ruffins!]
chicken pot pie:: Flour & Co.
fresh florals:: Flowers of the Valley
ice cream sandwiches:: Miette
lattes:: Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters
[the Rifle Paper Co. wallpaper wasn’t what drew me in at all…]
lodging:: Chancellor ($) | Westin St. Francis ($$)
pastel houses:: Russian Hill | North Beach
tacos:: Tacolicious
tapas:: Thirsty Bear
views:: Macondray Lane | Coit Tower | [Cocktails at] Top of the Mark
wine:: Goosecross Vineyard

I get it now. I just really may have left my heart in San Francisco.

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Jardin des Tuileries et Musée de l’Orangerie

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Harbor State of Mind: A Weekend at Portland Harbor Hotel

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A Weekend in Woodstock

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Bunkin’ in Kennebunkport

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The Daytrip Diaries: Sailing into Newburyport

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You Blue Me Away:: A Weekend on Plum Island with Lark Hotels

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I Want To Go On Adventures, I Think.

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The Daytrip Diaries: Newburyport

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Vitamin Sea

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Four Days By the Bay

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sharing is caring!

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sharing is caring!

Like this:

sharing is caring!

Like this:

sharing is caring!

Like this:

sharing is caring!

Like this:

sharing is caring!

Like this: