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Confessions of a COVID Bride
The past two years have simultaneously gone by so fast and so slow.Β It is surreal to think about life before the pandemic.Β I think the biggest lessons for me were that we cannot take anything for granted and that life doesn’t always go to plan.Β You just have to find a way to roll with the punches.Β Three years ago, as of yesterday, my hubby proposed to me and surprised me with the most gorgeous and elaborate engagement party in Marrakech. I was never the type of girl who dreamt of their future wedding.Β In fact, I was the only person to raise my hand in my high school…
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Luray Caverns in Virginia
I can’t tell you how many times I saw commercials for “Luray Caverns – What Will You Discover?” growing up in Virginia. I can still hear the ad when I think about it!Β However, up until this year – I had never been. This autumn, we visited the caverns while on a mini vacation in Shenandoah.Β Β This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Located just 11 miles from the Thornton Gap Entrance to Skyline Drive, Luray Caverns were discovered in 1878. These caverns are the largest in the eastern United States, and the most visited! After visiting myself, I understand why…
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Holiday Gift Ideas
I always plan to shop for the holidays throughout the year so that I am not scrambling last minute.Β Yet every year, I inevitable end up rushing to buy everything in December!Β Here are some gift ideas for those of us who (like me) may need some last minute inspiration!Β This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Gifts for the Home Life as we know it has changed over the past two years and we are all spending a lot more time at home than we used to.Β It only seems appropriate to give some gifts that make the it a…
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Downtown Holiday Market in Washington, DC
The Washington, DC Downtown Holiday Market is an annual outdoor shopping “village” which supports local small businesses and entrepreneurs.Β The market is an especially great way to shop local while still remaining socially distant! Located on F street between 7th and 9th in NW DC, the Downtown Holiday Market is open from November 19 until Christmas Eve eve (December 23) from noon to 8pm. Β Previously the market was located along the sidewalk, but they have expanded the market the last two years by blocking off road traffic on F street to allow for wider aisles.Β Rather than walking between stalls, the layout is more of a loop around outward…
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Top 5 Best Cityscape Views of Paris, France
One of my favorite parts of visiting a city is to find that picture perfect view from a higher perspective.Β Paris offers several different stunning cityscape views – from the Eiffel Tower itself to Sacre Coeur in Montmartre.Β Below are my top 5 favorite views of Paris, with a little bonus pick.Β π This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.Β If you’re planning a trip, check out my hotel recommendations for best neighborhoods to stay in the City of Light! View from Eiffel Tower One of the most well-known attractions in Paris is, of course, the Eiffel Tower!Β This is the…
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What To Do in Strasbourg, France: From Canals to Cathedrals
Strasbourg is a charming town known for its timber-framed buildings and canals.Β Strasbourg sits on the German-Franco border, within the Alsace Region of France.Β The city has a complex history, changing between German and French rule over several centuries.Β As a result, Strasbourg offers a unique blend of both cultures.Β Β I have visited Strasbourg several times, and it never gets old!Β It’s a more laid back city, perfect for strolling along the canals and just enjoying the beautiful architecture. This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. If you’re planning your first visit to Strasbourg, check out my hotel recommendations for convenient…
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Germany Off the Beaten Path: SchwΓ€bisch GmΓΌnd
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. A thirty minute trainride from Stuttgart in Southern Germany is the small town of SchwΓ€bisch GmΓΌnd.Β Though a much lesser known destination for tourists, the town is well worth visiting for its architecture, charming alleyways, and historic town center.Β Β My friend’s Opa lives in this charming town and we visited for a few weeks in 2014.Β I really enjoyed exploring the city and the surrounding attractions. Cities like SchwΓ€bisch GmΓΌnd that are more off the beaten path offer an unexpected cultural experience. Below are my highlights of SchwΓ€bisch GmΓΌnd. Historischer Marktplatz Historischer Marktplatz, or…
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A Day in Heidelberg, Germany: Old Town, Old Bridge, and Castle Views
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Heidelberg is a charming university town in Baden-WΓΌrttemberg, in southwestern Germany.Β This picturesque city is somewhat of a hidden gem, with a more small-town feel.Β Heidelberg is an easy day trip from Stuttgart or Frankfurt.Β Here are my highlights of Heidelberg, that all fit into one afternoon! Heidelberg is home to Heidelberg University, founded in the 14th century, as well as European Molecular Biology Laboratory and other research facilities. Old Bridge Theodore Heuss BrΓΌcke, commonly called Old Bridge, is an 18th century bridge crossing the Neckar River.Β This bridge offers beautiful views of the…
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10 Must Have Travel Essentials
Although we might not be ready to travel just yet, I certainly have several trips in mind once it is more safe!Β I’ve also been planning more local getaways to national parks and other locales that allow for outdoor activities without being too crowded.Β While daydreaming of future trips, I compiled what I think are the top travel essentials.Β I hope you enjoy! This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Backpack Aside from suitcases and duffel bags, I find that I use backpacks the most when traveling.Β A decent travel backpack is a great investment for use as a carry-on bag.Β …
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Highlights of Savannah, GA
I spent a weekend in Savannah on a girls’ trip a few years ago and we had such a blast!Β Savannah is full of Southern charm and beautiful draping Spanish moss. This city is easy to explore by foot over a few days time, making it a perfect weekend destination.Β Historic District The Historic District is a great starting point for exploring the city. Savannah has 22 historic squares, each with its own charm and character. Take a stroll around the district and take in the Colonial style houses, old lampposts, trolleys, and horse-drawn carriages.Β Β Forsyth Park Spanning 30 acres, this park cannot be missed when visiting Savannah!Β This park…
