Category: Passion

For my very last travel guide, I thought there was no better place to mention than my hometown of Hershey, PA! Sometimes I forget that the place I call home is actually a major tourist spot for those interested in learning about the history of Hershey’s Chocolate, or spending time at the local amusement park. Check out this post if you find yourself in Chocolatetown anytime soon!

Things to Do

Visit Hersheypark

This one is sort of a no brainer. When in Hershey, you must check out Hersheypark at some point during your stay. Visitors typically enjoy experiencing the following things: rollercoasters, amusement park food like popcorn and cotton candy, and arcade games. Be sure to get your tickets ahead of time, especially if you are traveling in the summer months!

Visit Chocolate World

Hershey is a great spot for families with young kids to travel to. If HersheyPark sounds like too exhausting of an activity (I don’t blame you!), then a day at Chocolate World would be perfect for you. Visitors can hop on a fun ride that dives into the process of how chocolate is made, or they can sit back and enjoy all of the yummy treats. Either way, there is something for everyone at Chocolate World.

Places to Eat

Chocolate Ave Grill

Right in the center of downtown Hershey lies a delicious spot known as the Chocolate Ave Grill. My family eats here at least once a week as it is in walking distance of our house, and the food is to die for. Adults enjoy trying their fun drink menu, and the dessert options feature items that resonate with Hershey’s Chocolate. I highly recommend the Jess’s Favorite Salad. Reserve your table here!

Places to Stay

The Hershey Hotel

Are you interested in getting a massage with chocolate face masks? Are you interested in dining at some of the best restaurants? Are you interested in sleeping in the cleanest and comfiest of beds? Are you interested in having more options of things to do than you can handle? Look no further than the Hershey Hotel because they have it all. The Hershey Hotel’s high ratings will not let you down, and you will be wishing to return before you’ve even left!

I hope that you decide to visit my hometown of Hershey, PA at some point in your near future. Even though Hershey has lost its excitement to me as I have lived there for 18 years, I know for a fact that I have a solid understanding of the best things to do and places to stay/eat.

Thank you!

Take a trip with me down south to Tybee Island, Georgia! It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, and visitors can also get the best of both worlds with the nearby city of Savannah.

https://www.expedia.com/pictures/savannah/tybee-island.d10128?view=large-gallery&photo=487608

Things to Do

Visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum

The island itself is extremely small with not a ton of things to do. My friends and I visited Tybee Island the week after Christmas, which meant a lot of the shops and attractions were closed for the season. One thing that we did do was the Light Station and Museum that sits in the heart of the island. It was a super fun thing for us to do considering the temperatures were not beach worthy this time of year.

https://www.expedia.com/pictures/savannah/tybee-island.d10128?view=large-gallery&photo=487608

Visit the City of Savannah

Savannah, Georgia is about a 30 minute drive from the island. We spent a few of our days driving into the city, but it was amazing being able to resort back to a quiet island for nighttime. Perfect, right? There are countless things to do in Savannah like shopping, eating, and exploring. We had an amazing time doing the following things:

1. Take a Trolley Tour of the City. This was such a fun and informative trolley tour of the entire city. The tour guides showed us all around the city, and they even pointed out and explained all of the historic sites. Who doesn’t love a bus tour? 
2. Eat at The Olde Pink House. This restaurant offers traditional Southern cuisine in a beautiful colonial mansion. They offer live music, and the experience is totally worth it. Check out the menu and book your reservation! 
3. Go shopping on Rousakis Riverfront Plaza. This plaza sits all along the river, and shoppers are able to watch the boats pass by as they max out their credit cards. It is a really cool atmosphere with so many great shopping options.

Places to Stay

My friends and I would totally recommend booking an Airbnb or VRBO for your trip to Tybee Island. The island is not very touristy (at least compared to other beach towns), so there are many more affordable and accommodating house options as opposed to hotels. It was totally worth it for us to find a nice house along the beach to stay in.

I hope you consider visiting the adorable island of Tybee Island in Georgia, and I especially hope you take a trip over to the fun city of Savannah during your time down south. Refer to this post for recommendations and ideas during your stay!

Thank you!

 

A few summers ago, I stopped in New Haven, CT on my way up further north, and it was a wonderful trip! The city is absolutely beautiful, and there is so much to do! Check out this post if you are interested in taking a trip to the Northeast!

Things to Do

Visit Yale University

https://www.nhregister.com/living/article/yale-university-travel-and-leisure-most-beautiful-18091830.php

Upon first arriving in New Haven, we stumbled upon the stunning campus of Yale University. Yale is neatly nestled right into the heart of the city, and it is super cool to explore the city while also walking amongst other students. I visited during the summertime, so I think it would be a whole new experience to visit New Haven during the school months. The buildings on Yale’s campus are so old, and I would highly recommend making the time to visit the academic buildings to check out their beauty and history.

Yale University’s Art Gallery

Another more specific thing that you can check out during your time visiting Yale University is their art gallery. Not only is it the oldest American college art museum, but you can also check out their website for cool events that they having going on during the time of your visit. It is truly the Grand Canyon of collegiate art museums. 

Food to Eat

Sally’s Apizza

New Haven is sort of known for its amazing selection of good pizza. There are several places that are worth checking out, but the one that I would recommend the most would be Sally’s. There is always a long line out the door of this place, so try to call ahead if you’re planning on going. You cannot go wrong with any of their pizza menu options!

ZINC New Haven

ZINC is a very modern, chic, and American restaurant that totally fits the city vibe. New Haven has many dining options that offer more than just a great meal because the setting and experience is also worth checking out. It is slightly expensive in price, but if it is in your budget I would recommend trying out any of their meat or seafood entrees. If you are looking for a delicious dinner delicacy, make a reservation here!

I hope you decide to spend some time in New Haven, Connecticut in your near future, even if your trip is just a short weekend getaway. There are so many more things to do besides the few ideas I mentioned in this post!

Thank you!

Is your hometown in or near Pennsylvania? Are you looking for a short weekend getaway? Look no further than Deep Creek, Maryland. My family visited at the end of last summer, and it was the perfect spot for our family (including the four-legged friends)! It is home to some of the coolest hiking and swimming spots, and it has great food, too! 

Things to Do

Deep Creek Lake State Park

The town of Deep Creek is obviously known for being home to a large man-made reservoir: Deep Creek Lake. It’s really not that big; it only covers 69 miles of shoreline and 3,900 acres. It is truly beautiful, and it is a great option for families with members of all ages. Families can choose to sit and relax on the shoreline, or they can take an adventurous route by going boating or paddle boarding in the water. There is truly something for everyone!

Swallow Falls State Park

https://selectregistry.com/blog/deep-creek-lake-maryland

My family chose Deep Creek for the hiking spots that past travelers rave about. Spoiler: they did not disappoint in the slightest! The Wilson family is kind of crazy when it comes to hiking, so we chose to start our hike from our Airbnb cabin as opposed to starting in the parking lot of the state park, so it ended up being a 12 mile hike. Nonetheless, the best part of the hike was definitely when we arrived at Swallow Falls State Park to see the magnificent falls. There were several different waterfalls that ranged in size, one of them reaching 53 feet tall! This is a busy spot in the summer, so try to get there early if you are interested in having some alone time on the trail!

Places to Eat

Trader’s Coffee House

Upon arriving in Deep Creek on our first day of the trip, my sisters and I decided to explore the local coffee shops in the surrounding area. We wound up at Trader’s Coffee House, and it happened to easily be one of the best cups of coffee I have had. Their in-house coffee beans tasted so amazing with their wide range of syrup and milk options. They also had a great selection of pastries and snacks, and every single one we tried was amazing!

Dutch’s at Silver Tree

On our last night in Deep Creek, we decided to try out Dutch’s at the Silver Tree Resort. It was a very pricey dinner for the five of us, but it was definitely worth it. We all enjoyed different seafood options from salmon to crab cakes, and the steak was a popular choice as well. Our dog was able to sit with us at the table outside, and they even offered her a menu for dogs where unique dog treats were served on a frisbee!

Check out Deep Creek, Maryland for a family-friendly summer spot! It will be a great vacation with lots of fun things to do and yummy food!

Thank you.

Are you looking for yet another travel abroad to a Central American dream? Last summer, my best friends and I spent the most amazing week in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. We did not stray far from our wonderful resort; nonetheless, I can confirm that I have some amazing recommendations.

The Place to Stay

I spent majority of my time at the Hyatt Ziva in Cap Cana. It was a remarkably beautiful and all-inclusive resort on the eastern side of the country. There are so many activities that the resort managers can organize for you and your group (like snorkeling or a spa day) and some of these activities do not even require an additional cost! There are multiple different room package options that each offer a different array of benefits. My favorite part was the several amazing pools with swim up drink services! Book your reservation here! 

Places to Eat

Yes, all of these restaurants are located within the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana Resort, but I promise that you will have no desire to go anywhere else when you arrive in paradise! While on vacation, food is the joy and the joy is food!

El Mercado

This is a fast, casual option for any meal of the day. My group really enjoyed this buffet-style option for breakfast because we could all find something to eat that we enjoyed, and it was quick enough to not waste time away from the beach or pool! My favorite options were the large variety of tropical fruits, as well as the create-your-own omelette station. This place gets busy, so be sure to make a reservation ahead of time!

The Chinola

The Chinola is a very tasty restaurant that sits directly on the beach! You can hear the waves crash onto the shore while you eat the amazing selection of healthy foods. My group would often share a variety of options, some of our favorites being the avocado toast and seafood varieties.

Things to Do

Boat Tour

One of our absolute favorite days on the trip was the day that we all piled onto a boat for a snorkeling experience, and to swim in the clearest of blue waters. All we had to do was visit the front desk of the resort, and they were able to set up the entire experience for us. It was an all day experience (and it was exhausting), but if it is in your funds to do this, I highly recommend.

 

Make sure to visit the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana during your next visit to Punta Cana!

Thank you!

As Pennsylvania weather is beginning to cool down, I am sure there are others like me that are dreaming about escaping to somewhere warm. There is no better place to visit during the cold, northern months than Tampa, Florida. Not only is Tampa a fun, bustling, and exciting city, but it is also nearby some of the state’s most beautiful coastal spots. Check out this list of some of Tampa’s best spots!

Things to Do

Visit Clearwater Beach

If you are interested in escaping from the busy city for a few hours, Clearwater Beach is only a twenty minute drive, and the views will not disappoint. The town is very cute, and the sand on the beach is a golden blanket. The water is clear blue in color and extremely warm for most of the months of the year, making it feel like a Caribbean vacation. Make sure to get there early in the day to ensure you get a parking spot near the beach if you are driving!

Tampa Riverwalk

Right in the center of the city is the Tampa Riverwalk. It is conveniently located beside most of the hotels and restaurants in the city, so it is extremely easy to access. At night time, the Riverwalk is completely lit up (as shown in the picture on right), and this serves as a great activity for people of any age to do in the evenings. As a distance runner, my visit to Tampa consisted of many runs on the Riverwalk, which felt safe and enjoyable!

Places to Eat

SoFresh

One of my favorite restaurants in Tampa would have to be SoFresh. It is healthy, fast, and delicious. While visiting Tampa, my mom and I loved being able to preorder our meal and pick it up in store so that we could enjoy the meal on a bench in a nearby park. You can create your own grain bowls filled with so many different plants foods, protein choices, and yummy sauces. Preorder your meal here! 

Haven

If you and your travel buddies are looking for an option that is slightly fancier, I would recommend Haven as a great spot for dinner. Their meals are based on an American cuisine, so their menu consists of meals like steak and seafood. If those are not your preferred dinner option, do not worry! They also have mac and cheese for picky eaters! Check out the menu here before making a reservation here! 

 

Use this guide for your next visit to Tampa, Florida! Thank you.

I am sure everyone is familiar with the Netflix show Outer Banks that has become very popular within the last few years. The show is obviously filmed on an island off the coast of North Carolina known as the Outer Banks, and I have no doubt that many of the show’s watchers find themselves eager to explore this beautiful island. My family has been visiting Corolla, North Carolina (the northernmost part of the island) for as long as I can remember. I have acquired a list of all of OBX’s best!

Things to Do

4×4 Beach

Corolla is home to what is known as the 4×4 beaches. These are unique in the sense that you actually drive your vehicle onto the sand and park it for hours right along the water to seas the day from the comfort of your vehicle! My family has always taken this route for our beach days because we hate the idea of lugging all of our beach necessities by hand from the house to the sand. With that being said, parking permits for these beaches fill up quick, so if you and your family are interested in securing a spot for next summer, be sure to get your permit here!

Places to Eat

The Front Porch Cafe

Kill Devil Hills is another region on the island that tends to get most of the tourist attraction. It is known for its large selection of great food, as well as the plethora of family-friendly activities. This past summer, I would be lying if I said that I did not spend every day— and I mean every single day– at the Front Porch Cafe in Kill Devil Hills. They are notorious for their homemade coffee that comes from only the best, locally sourced coffee beans. For someone like me who is a coffee snob, this is your best bet at a great cup of joe.

Mike Dianna’s Grill Room

If you are planning on staying put in Corolla during your stay in the Outer Banks, I would recommend no other place for dinner besides Mike Dianna’s Grill Room. Although this steak and seafood house is on the pricier side, it is well worth it as their salmon meal is fintastic. The service is also amazing considering they were able to accommodate different dietary needs at my table. This is one of the best spots in Corolla, so be sure to make your reservation ahead of time. Check out the menu and book it!

 

Whether you are visiting the Outer Banks to fulfill your curiosity after watching the Netflix show, or you are just interested in an amazing family vacation, I hope that you feel prepared to make the most of your trip on coastal North Carolina!

Thank you.

Is Central America on your travel bucket list? Are you trying to escape to the beautiful city of Antigua?

Antigua, Guatemala is home to some of the world’s most unique and amazing architecture; a specific color scheme of bright buildings line the street. As soon as you step onto the uneven cobblestone streets that are intricately nestled together on the pavement, you will know you have arrived.

Things to Do

Parque Nacional Volcan De Pacaya (Mount Pacaya National Park)

Pacaya National Park is located in the southeastern side of Guatemala, about 45 minutes outside the city of Antigua. It has 6 mountains, the most active and highest mountain being Pacaya. This volcano saw its first eruption 23,000 years ago, and it has continued to stay active since the 1960’s.

After walking a few miles, you’ll find yourself standing on hot, active lava where you can actually roast tasty marshmallows! This is an experience you will never forget.

Arco de Santa Catalina (Santa Catalina Arch)

The Santa Catalina Arch, situated in the heart of Antigua, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. It stands out in its beautiful yellow color, and the centerpiece consists of a stunning analog clock. Beautiful volcanoes stand out in the background to provide of the most picturesque locations.  Beware- this place gets very busy during the daytime hours, so be sure to arrive early in the morning if you want to avoid photo-bombing!

Food to Eat

La Familia Pizzería y Panadería

I know what you may be thinking: pizza in Guatemala? Why would I travel to Central America and eat pizza? I thought the same thing. Until I realized that my homestay was next door to the most delicious smelling sourdough pizzeria I had ever smelt. Anyone who has visited Guatemala knows that they have lots of “panaderías” (bakeries) that they take pride in. This family owned pizza shop makes all of their dough fresh out of sourdough, and it does not disappoint. The crust is large and bubbly with so much doughy flavor, and their toppings are fresh and tasty. If you find yourself missing food from the United States while away, check out this amazing pizza place!

El Viejo Cafe

El Viejo Cafe was a frequent breakfast spot for me during my stay in Antigua. Along with their bread, Guatemala also takes pride in their amazing coffee. The beans are always fresh and rich in taste. El Viejo combined the two to serve an amazing breakfast. My go-to was always a hot cappuccino and one of their freshly baked, fluffy croissants; sometimes we would even finish off breakfast with their amazing selection of homemade gelato!

Cafe Sky

If you’re looking to try a more traditional Guatemalan breakfast during your stay, check out Cafe Sky. They have an amazing rooftop bar with some of the most wonderful views of the mountains. I suggest trying the traditional breakfast consisting of Ranchero eggs, plantains and black beans. It is a great way to immerse yourself in their fascinating culture.

Thank you.

 

Information from the first paragraph is thanks to: https://peakvisor.com/park/parque-nacional-volcan-de-pacaya.html

 

Looking to book a trip to San Diego, California? Look no further! San Diego is a sunny, family-friendly place with countless things to do and places to see. I am grateful to claim San Diego as one of my past travel destinations, and I feel confident that I have accumulated a list of all of the best in this wonderful city!

Things to Do

Explore the San Diego Zoo

San Diego is home to one of the most highly regarded zoos in the world. Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is located conveniently to most hotels that travelers choose to stay in. The zoo contains roughly 4,000 animals from more than 650 species!

The San Diego Zoo is involved in a large range of conservation efforts that extend beyond their local borders. They fund and manage the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, which is a nonprofit conservation organization. You can learn more about their efforts here. 

Visit La Jolla Cove

San Diego certainly contains some of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast. La Jolla Cove is a small inlet with picturesque bluffs that surround the well-known La Jolla Beach. Understandably, it is a frequent stop for most tourists visiting the San Diego area, and it will not disappoint!

Food to Eat

Sovereign Modern Thai Cuisine

Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, Sovereign Modern Thai Cuisine is commended for its efforts to bring Thai cuisine to Southern California, especially dishes that are not seen as frequently. Their menu features a wide range of Thai inspired cocktails that will be sure to have you taking pictures before your first sip. They specialize in a spicier variety of Thai food that is worth checking out.

Serea Coastal Cuisine

Housed by the iconic Hotel del Coronado, Serea Coastal Cuisine offers some of the best seafood in the region. The head chef, Jojo Ruiz, prides himself on supporting the local fishermen, often serving fresh catches that are served just steps from the sand. Book your reservation here!

Places to Stay

Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina

Accompanied by dazzling views of the downtown skyline or the neighboring marina, the Sheraton San Diego Hotel will not disappoint. With a wide range of room options to satisfy your specific family needs, the Sheraton offers something for everyone. Travelers enjoy activities like stand up paddle boarding lessons, fresh air yoga classes, water sports, and more. Guests are also at liberty to use the amazing pools that the Sheraton has to offer, paired with delicious poolside food and beverages. Book your stay today!

 

Whether you are currently in the process of planning your west coast trip, or you are saving these travel ideas for a dream vacation, San Diego should be on your bucket list. Between the family-friendly activities, delicious food scene, and luxury hotel spots, San Diego is sure to impress your inner travel critic.

Thank you.

One thing that I would love to serve as the topic for my passion blog posts would be travel and culture. I absolutely love to travel, and I love exploring different regions of our country and other countries around the world to observe their cultural ways. I like the idea of proposing travel destinations and giving recommendations for where to go to eat, activities to do, places to stay, etc. I have not done a lot of global travel in the past, but I think that this would be a great way to get personal ideas for where I would like to go in the future.

Another topic that I would consider pursuing as my passion blog topic would be fashion. I feel like I have a good grasp on my personal style and what I think I enjoy wearing, but I also find it very interesting to explore that of other people. I think that there is a lot to be said about the “fast fashion” industry, and I think that my blog could serve as a great source for more sustainable clothing brand options. I love the idea of exploring celebrities fashion choices, and how fads become a thing as well.