Boston, MA

For my last blog, I wanted to highlight another city that I enjoy visiting. This charming New England city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. In this blog, we’ll go on a journey through some of the most iconic things to do, must-visit places, and delicious dining experiences in Boston.

For the people who love history, Boston is the city for you. Boston is full of many historical sites. We start at the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path with 16 historical streets. Make sure to not miss the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church. For a quick stop head to the Quincy Market where clam chowder and lobster rolls await you. To end this section check out the Boston Commons. It’s one of the oldest public parks in the country. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden, right next door.

Moving on to the art and culture of the city. Explore the rich art world at the Museum of Fine Arts. Marvel at the masterpieces from various cultures and periods. Next head to the next museum. Visit the charming museum with its beautiful courtyard and a collection of art throughout centuries. Last but not least head over to the famous Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox (I’m personally more of a Yankees Fan). If you go during the baseball season, go catch a game it’s truly a wonderful experience. Even if there isn’t a game you can always tour the iconic stadium.

While in Boston take advantage of the local delicacies like lobster rolls, baked beans, and Boston cream pie. You can also dine at Boston’s top restaurants, such as Oleana, Menton, or Neptune Oyster. Another option is the Newbury Street where you can shop and dine. To end your trip to Boston, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in history and coastal charm than with a day trip to Salem: famous for its witch trials and rich maritime history, where you can explore the Salem Witch Museum, visit the House of the Seven Gables, and savor seafood by the sea at one of the charming waterfront restaurants.

Boston is for the artist. Boston is for the historians. Boston is for the foodies. Boston is for everyone. So, as you prepare to bid goodbye to this captivating corner of the United States, remember that Boston  will always welcome you back with open arms, ready to share their tales of the past and the flavors of the present.

Nestled against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder, Colorado is a city that combines natural beauty and a flourishing cultural scene. It’s known for its outdoor adventures and vibrant arts. It has something to offer for everyone. Over winter break my friend and I are going to Boulder, Colorado. I haven’t seen her in a few months so I’m excited to go see her and explore Boulder. We just started planning the trip and we have a rough idea of what we are doing. Especially since she goes to school there so it’ll be exciting to have her show me around. Boulder is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Flatirons which is a series of striking rock formations that are incredible to hike or go rock climbing on. We also plan on going to the Chautauqua Park at the base of the Flatirons, a very popular starting point for many hikes. We were also looking into going to the Pearl Street Mall the heart of downtown Boulder lined with charming boutiques, restaurants, and street performers. A great spot to enjoy the local culture and do some shopping, because let’s be honest who doesn’t like shopping? My friend is a huge outdoors person so we plan on doing multiple hiking trails and exploring the wilderness just a few minutes from the center of the city. Boulder is huge on sustainability and offers multiple eco-friendly activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is just a short drive from Boulder and offers world-class hiking and hiking. Apart from outdoor activities, Boulder also offers many places to see the arts and cultures in the city. It’s filled with multiple galleries, museums, and music venues. We plan on going to The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art and some other smaller galleries. Moving on the the culinary delights boulder is filled with diverse and innovative cuisines. From farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisine. The city’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its food choices, with many restaurants offering locally sourced, organic dishes. Some places that we plan on visiting are the Walnut Cafe, Ozo Coffee Company (as my friend and I are huge coffee drinkers), and The Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant. Boulder, Colorado combines natural beauty with culture. It has something to offer to someone. I’m so excited for my upcoming trip. Does anyone ever really get tired of traveling?

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Paris, France

The city of Paris has many claims to its name, known as the city of love, the heart of France is truly an urban beauty. Paris is also known as the city where Ratatouille (2007) took place. I had the opportunity to visit Paris in 2019, where I had the wonderful chance to visit multiple hotspots in the city. From the awe-inspiring Eiffel Tower that graced the skyline to the magnificent Galeries Lafayette, where I indulged in some retail therapy, each place I visited had its unique charm. The Louvre Museum, home to countless masterpieces, and the breathtaking Palace of Versailles transported me to a different era, making me feel like I had stepped into a historical time machine. Out of all the places I went to, my favorite was Musse Rodin. Known for the famous sculpture “The Thinker”, the museum was full of amazing pieces by Auguste Rodin. It also has a beautiful garden that contains more of Rodin’s sculptures. While in Paris I highly recommend taking the metro to get around easier. It also gives you a chance to be immersed into the culture and take part in daily life activities. The cuisine, one thing about me is that I will try the food wherever I go. Paris is renowned for its cuisine and I made sure to savor every bite. From the warm crisp baguettes and the buttery croissants to the escargot and the candied crepes. My taste buds went on a delightful culinary journey. While Paris did introduce me to my love for traveling, I didn’t want to forget all the memories I made. I discovered the joy of collecting mini souvenirs. One that was my favorite was small canvas paintings from local artists and keychains. They each hold a certain memory from my trip and the places I went to visit. One negative note of my Parisian adventure was that I arrived a few months after the terrible and tragic fire that engulfed the Notre Dame Cathedral. While I couldn’t explore its interior or stand close to its magnificent facade, I still marveled at its grandeur from a distance, knowing that its spirit would endure. My trip to Paris was one to remember. A city full of art, culture, and delicious food I would definitely visit again. It sparked my passion for travel and opened my eyes to a new culture. I can’t wait to explore more of the world’s wonders. Paris, je t’aime!

Camp Nou:                      Sagrada Família:          Park Güell:

A few years ago I was able to go to Barcelona for a school trip, I completely fell in love with the city. Barcelona is filled with vibrant culture! In this post, I’m going to be talking about two of the most fascinating aspects of Barcelona, food and landmarks.

Growing up my mom would make Spanish food during the holidays, as she is half Spanish. So going to Spain I thought I had a good idea, but this didn’t prepare me for the different variety of food. Paella is my favorite dish, containing affron, vegetables, and various types of seafood or meat. Although it’s associated more with Valencia. There is also a wide variety of restaurants that serve tapas. If you’re unfamiliar with tapas it is a small flavorful dish, Barcelona is famous for its tapas culture. Some dishes are patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy sauce), jamón ibérico (Spanish ham), and various seafood options. As you have noticed many of the food options contain seafood. Located along the Mediterranean Coast the seafood is abundant, Look for restaurants serving dishes like grilled sardines, squid, and seafood paella. Last but not least the market. The most famous market La Boqueria Market has sample fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. You can also find a variety of street food vendors there. Barcelona has so much to offer so you’ll be able to hit all these spots.

Moving on to the amazing landmarks that Barcelona has to offer. First off La Sagrada Família this iconic basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona. It’s known for its unique architecture and intricate façades. Next up is Park Güell another Gaudí masterpiece, Park Güell is a public park with colorful mosaics, unique architectural elements, and panoramic views of the city. Moving to the coast the Barcelona Beaches. Barcelona boasts several beautiful beaches, including Barceloneta Beach, where you can relax, swim, and enjoy a vibrant beach culture. For my soccer or football fans, there is Camp Nou. If you’re a football fan, visit Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona, one of the most renowned football clubs in the world. Lastly, if you love the arts go visit the Picasso Museum. Explore the works of the famous artist Pablo Picasso at this museum, which houses one of the most extensive collections of artworks by the 20th-century Spanish artist.

Barcelona is a city that beautifully blends its rich history with modern art, cuisine, and culture. Exploring both its food culture and iconic landmarks can provide a well-rounded experience of this vibrant city. Barcelona truly doesn’t have enough places to enjoy!

Many of the places I have written about on my blog are foreign, I wanted to take a turn a write about a place that is very local to my hometown and that I love taking road trips to every summer. Growing up in CT my family and I would go to Newport during the summer for day trips. Only an hour and a half from Boston, Newport gives off a classy vibe (think clean girl aesthetic). In this post, I’m going to be highlighting some places in Newport that I enjoy going to and that everyone should go to at least once.

The first is the iconic Cliff Walk, stretching 3.5 miles long and increasing in difficulty. It has some spectacular views. Along the way, there are many mansions, Salve Regina University, the Forty Steps, etc. It truly is a magical place to visit. The entry is free and pets are welcome as long as they are leashed. The view of the horizon and the ocean meeting is truly one of a kind, especially during a sunset.

If you are looking for a quick bite, look no further than Cru Cafe. Located off Memorial Blvd. enjoy the all-day breakfast or a variety of sandwiches or salads. I would recommend the Twisted Avocado Toast, especially if you’re a salmon lover (trust that your taste buds will thank you).  Just keep in mind the hours are from 8 am to 3 pm so make sure you make time to go eat and not be rushed.

Like all tourist spots, there are many plazas where you can do your shopping. Ranging from small mom-and-pop shops to more nationally recognized brands like The Black Dog or Life is Good. I would recommend The Long Whaf Mall which many a variety of stores (mostly larger brands). I like going to the Wharf in the summer as there are concert events every Saturday from May to October.

There are also numerous beaches nearby, personally, I go to Easton’s Beach. Right next to the Cliff Walk, it’s one of the bigger beaches. If you’re like me and love the waves, I can attest that the waves here are really big although like all beaches in the summer it bound to be packed so it is better to get there early and get a good spot.

Newport truly holds a special place in my heart. It’s almost like a second home that I can go and enjoy especially during the hot summer months. Newport has my love; my heart belongs to Newport. 

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its incredible biodiversity. The range from beaches to rainforests is paradise. Its landscapes, activities, and experiences are as rich and varied as the colors of a precious gem. Comprised of six hundred beaches that surround the coast like a protective layer, it secured its spot on my travel bucket list with there being so many activities to do. Other than beach activities, Costa Rica has twenty-nine national parks, twelve differentiated climatic zones, and eight biological reserves you are sure to enjoy yourself. There are seven provinces spread out over the twenty thousand square miles that make up what is the country of Costa Rica.

In the Puntarenas Province, also known as the “Pearl of the Pacific” The main crowd pleaser is the Pacific coastline, which extends five hundred miles down to the Panamanian border. There, we can kick it off with the famous zip line at El Santuario. Located in the Provincia de Puntarenas, this zipline is the longest in all of Costa Rica, coming in at over 4,300 feet. With breathtaking views on both sides, as you glide down, it is an experience you will never forget. The second stop in the province of Puntarenas is the Amigos Kayak y SUP tours. Enjoying the mangroves and lively ecosystem while kayaking down the rivers is another unique experience. If you love to bird watch or just love nature this is an amazing experience for you. As you travel down the river you’ll be immersed into the Terraba Desert Wetland Mangrove system which is one of the most important parts of the local biodiversity. 

 Moving up north is the second province I found extremely fascinating. Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Providing a mixed range of forests, beaches, plains, and volcanic ranges. Here is where I found Coffee Jungle Night Tours. Coffee production is embedded in the traditions of Costa Rica, and knowing the history of coffee is to know the history of Costa Rica. Alongside this, you get to explore the forest with a nature guide. You will get to hear the sounds of the forest at night, including the songs of a wide range of pieces from the smallest creatures to bigger ones such as sloths. The tour is broken into 3 parts: First, you get a tour of the coffee plantation, then there is a short break where you can do a little coffee and savor the different types of coffee roast, and the last part of the tour is the observation of nocturnal wildlife. This takes place in a protected forest that extends along a creek that runs through the coffee plantation. The second destination in this providence is Tamarindo Diving. Now I have been scuba diving before but what makes this stand out to me personally is that this takes place in the Pacific Ocean. The most interesting activity I found while scrolling on their website was Discover Scuba Diving. It’s a good way to immersive yourself into the area and take it all in with a someone guiding you. 

Costa Rica itself can be seen as a shining gem of adventure. Its extensive biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes serve as facets that reflect the many cultures and practices that have thrived within its borders. Visiting Costa Rica is like unlocking a treasure chest of natural wonders and cultural discoveries.

Mexico

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month- this week I’m going to be writing about Mexico. There is so much to do in Mexico that writing about it would make a whole blog on its own. I will focus on two places that I have visited before- the capital Mexico City, and my parent’s home state Puebla.

Our first stop will be a vibrant city that is like no other- filled with a history that stretches back hundreds of years. A culture that celebrates diversity, this megacity has something for every traveler. Welcome to Mexico City, I’ll be writing about three main attractions I loved when I visited. El Zócalo, Xochimilco, and the Pyramids in Teotihuacán. The Zócalo is the heart of the city, the grand square surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. You’re able to take multiple tours to discover many of the nearby attractions, which I highly recommend if you love to learn about the history. I would also take a stroll in Alameda Central, the oldest municipal park in Mexico. Once you get to Xochimilco you’ll feel like you’re floating. As you set sail on colorful trajineras through the canals.  You’ll find you’re self surrounded by the natural beauties of the floating gardens – a living testament to the Aztec legacy. As you’re on the boat you’ll be amidst mariachi music, traditional food, and a bright atmosphere. North of the City you’ll find the ancient town of Teotihuacán. Home of the astonishing Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon. You’re able to walk around and enjoy the smaller pyramids and monuments that surround the two main pyramids. Embarking on a gastronomic journey, sampling street tacos, mouthwatering tamales, and contemporary Mexican cuisine at upscale restaurants is a must. Mexico City is a dynamic and captivating destination that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern flair. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine create an irresistible tapestry of experiences.

Our second stop is Puebla, just a two-hour drive south of the city. Offering a vibrant culture and culinary delights. Puebla often referred to as “The City of Angels”, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking a blend of history, art, and tradition. In Puebla, we will be stopping at the majestic art of Talavera Puebla, Cholula and the Great pyramids. The Art of Talavera Puebla is distinguished for its Talavera Pottery. Characterized by intricate blue and white designs you are able to explore talavera workshops and showrooms, witnessing skilled artisans at works. The charming town of Cholula, home to the Great Pyramid of Cholula- one of the largest pyramids in the world by volume. With breathtaking views that will blow you away, and lets not forget the nearby Church of Our Lady of Remedies, built by the Spanish atop the pyramid. Youre able to walk around the plaza and see the local markets that contain handmade art and traditional food. Puebla has a culinary scene that tantalizes the taste buds, tacos that have different fillings from arabes, to al pastor, and carnitas. Puebla is also home to the famous dish Mole Poblano a rich and complex sauce – made with its key ingredient, chocolate unlocking its distinct taste and of course, accompanied by handmade tortillas. Puebla is a destination where history, art, and tradition blend seamlessly, offering a truly immersive travel experience. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a food lover, Puebla has something to captivate every traveler. Adiós for now!

New York City

Growing up, I had the opportunity to visit New York City several times a year since I lived just a short train ride away. Throughout the year, I would make multiple trips to the city; with my most recent one being just last week. During these visits, I typically spent just a day in the city, allowing me to explore both familiar and new places. What makes NYC truly remarkable is its incredible diversity in terms of activities and cultures, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this post, I want to focus on three key aspects to consider when planning a trip to NYC: food, activities, time of year, and duration.

NYC is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of culinary experiences. From street vendors to world-class restaurants, the city has it all. NYC has a diversity of cuisines from Mexican to Italian and more. NYC is an extremely diverse city you can choose multiple types of cuisines that appeal to you; I’d like to give some specific recommendations for Mexican, Italian, and Thai food. If you are craving Mexican cuisine, I would recommend “Los tacos no 1.” They have multiple spots scattered around the city; making it convenient to find. It’s a casual dining experience for a reasonable price. As for Italian food, NYC is famous for its pizza style. You can explore numerous pizza shops scattered around the city for a classic New York slice. Two excellent options are “Lilia” in Brooklyn and “Torrisi” in Little Italy they offer a variety of options and are in convenient places. If Thai food is your preference, there is a charming spot near Central Park on 56th Street between 6th and 7th Ave that I recently discovered. The menu offers a wide variety of options; I enjoyed the pad thai and spring rolls. The spring rolls were delightfully crispy; and served with a flavorful sweet and sour sauce. The pad thai was packed with the rich taste of tamarind and peanuts.

The time of year you choose to visit NYC can greatly influence your experience; summers are filled with tourists, while winter offers a magical atmosphere with holiday decorations. The duration of your stay also matters; a short weekend trip will be different from a longer vacation. Consider your preferences and schedule when planning your visit; as it’s a key factor to you. You might want to prioritize some activities over others, as they might be booked during the peak times such as the holiday season and early summer months. For example, if you’re going near the holiday season and want to visit the Famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center; I would book tickets to reserve your spot.

New York City offers an abundance of activities, catering to diverse interests. From visiting iconic landmarks like Times Square and Central Park to exploring lesser-known neighborhoods and museums, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. During my recent trip just last week, I had the opportunity to walk around Central Park and visit the Lego store on Fifth Ave, an experience I found particularly enjoyable. Whether you’re a shopping enthusiast looking for unique stores or high-end designer boutiques, or if you prefer immersive tours and experiences like the Color Factory, NYC has it all. Even if you’re on a budget, there are fantastic options such as strolling through Central Park or exploring museums to learn about the city’s rich history.

Remember that your travel style and budget should also be considered, as NYC has peak tourist seasons that can impact prices and availability. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable adventure, NYC has something to offer, and I hope this post helps you plan your visit accordingly.

Puerto Rico

At the start of August, I had the opportunity to visit Puerto Rico. This was the first time I was able to visit such a diverse place with such stunning views. For five days I was able to explore the whole island and truthfully, it wasn’t enough. While staying in Old San Juan, I visited Castillo San Felipe Del Morro and got a chance to appreciate the stunning architecture. The architecture in Old San Juan is heavily influenced by the Spanish, with terra-cotta clay tile roofs, soft arches, and Stucco walls. All of this is complemented by beautiful crystal-clear water surrounding the castle.

On the second day, we explored the area around our Airbnb called Emajuara and went to an Island called Fajardo. Traveling by boat, we reached a quiet area and had a small picnic, we then went to a local restaurant and got Amarillos which is a local Puerto Rican snack. Afterward, we went back to the mainland and had dinner next to the beach. It was a wonderful experience

By the third day, we woke up bright and early to go to El Yunque National Forest. While there, we had multiple stops along the way, eventually, we reached a hiking trail and began a 2-mile hike to the top. I won’t lie, it was a rough hike. At multiple points, I wanted to go and turn back but the satisfaction of reaching the end helped me push through. We came across a waterfall and as we were about to go in it started to thunderstorm, especially in Puerto Rico, which is an island meaning it does rain at least every day, especially at night.

 On the fourth day, we went to ToroVerde which is a zipline course in the mountains of Puerto Rico. We did the bike ziplines and a 2-mile zipline. On the last day we kept exploring the local area of Emajuara and then later that night we went back to old San Juan and walked around and then proceeded to go to La Placita. Overall PR is a territory that reflects its diversity and cultural aspects when visiting.

I had some trouble coming up with ideas for my passion blog, but after some reflection, I landed on two topics that I’m very passionate about. My first idea for my passion blog is to write about running. I was on my high school’s track and field team for all four years, but my love for running started when I was in middle school and first joined the team. I’m thinking about centering my blogs around my runs which partly motivates me to go outside and run. I would write about the different routes that I take; as I’m new to the area, it would be a great way for me to explore State College.

My second idea is to write about my past travel experiences and the places I want to travel to. Traveling is a huge passion of mine and is something I want to incorporate into my life. My blog will focus on different aspects when choosing places to visit. I would write about the various attractions, the cost, activities, the culture and most importantly, the food. I feel this is a good way to learn about places that I want to travel to and share my experiences and knowledge with my peers.