Category Archives: I Will Always Love…

Top Ten Hotels for My Home Away from Home

When spending time away from the comforts of home there are certain things that I appreciate in a hotel. Proximity to places I wish to visit, friendly staff, a comfortable bed and stylish surroundings are all things that make my stay memorable. Take a look at the properties that made my top ten:

Hyatt Palm Springs 

Hyatt Palm Springs

While earning a degree in Interior Design I always was drawn to the mid-century modern style that Palm Springs is known for. When I finally had the chance to visit this beautiful town I stayed at the Hyatt Palm Springs. The style of the hotel had mid-century modern influences, while still feeling very current. The view from our balcony was so beautiful as was the room.  Being within walking distance of many restaurants and art galleries made for a perfect night of wandering the town. Not to be left out were the staff. From the front desk to the valet everyone was so pleasant.  Continue reading Top Ten Hotels for My Home Away from Home

Muir Woods National Monument

Recently while visiting San Francisco I put it on my vacation itinerary to check out Muir Woods. As a bona-fide city girl with a phobia of lizards I was a little unsure about being in the out-of-doors, but my desire to see the Redwood trees told me to suck it up buttercup and make the trip! I am so grateful that I did!

Muir Woods

Located just 11 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge makes Muir Woods perfect for someone wishing to see nature and still have all the comforts of a major city nearby.  Honestly though after the first five minutes there even this city girl was contemplating hiking more often.

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In 1908 this grouping of redwoods, some between 400-800 years old,  was established as the Muir Woods National Monument. It is open to the public every day of the year and is free for children 15 and under.  As I am writing this the current price for 16 and over is $10, but please check their site for possible price changes. mw4

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Austin, Texas

I would be hard-pressed to think of a city that I adore more than Austin, Texas. Being from Houston it is easily accessible for short weekend trips, which I take there as often as possible. If you have never visited allow me to introduce you to the capital of Texas and you will see what the adoration is all about:Austin, Texas

The grounds of the Texas State Capitol are beautiful, but make sure to take a trip inside as the views there are equally stunning. 
Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas

The music scene is huge in Austin on any given night. However, for a true music lover’s trip be sure to visit during the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival. The festival is two consecutive weekends every year as summer turns into fall and features acts from all genres. 

Austin, Texas

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Seward Alaska

Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think the opportunity would present itself for me to visit Alaska.  When it did, however, I set out to see as many sea creatures as possible during my stay.  After researching the area Seward, Alaska emerged as a great jumping off point to make my dreams a reality.

As you can see on my first day there I was already hobnobbing with an Orca:

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New York City Views

I will always love to travel. When I do there is no city that makes me more excited to  visit than New York. The people, the pace, the excitement. It all gives me life.  With so much to love it is hard to narrow down my favorite views, but here goes:

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Located on 5th avenue directly across from Rockefeller Center, this Roman Catholic church is nothing short of breathtaking.  Pictures truly do it no justice. If you are going to visit may I suggest dropping in early and then again after dark if possible. The difference in lighting really gives the church a unique glow as the day turns to night.

new st patricks

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