Why Cruises are the BEST Group Vacation

Looking to travel with a few of your favorite couples? Plan an vacation with all of your extended family? Bachelorette party or trip with 10 of your closest girlfriends?

Growing up, we went on cruises with my parents, grandparents and uncle. My grandparents loved it because they could play cards all day and have dinner with us at night. My parents loved it because it was easy. And my sister and I loved it because we had so much freedom on the ship and there were fun activities to meet other kids our age.

In college, my girlfriends and I planned a cruise as our graduation present to ourselves. As an adult, I've taken cruises with other couples or just a mishmash of friends, and it's all been great!

If you're trying to plan a group vacation, a cruise is perfect for you. And here's why.

1 - Cost Per Day
Cruises, when broken down, are one of the most affordable ways to vacation around, unless you're only taking busses from one location to another and sleeping in hostels (which is absolutely NOT a vacation). If your dates are flexible, there's a lot of money to be saved. We recently booked a 5 night cruise for 2 for right around $700. That breaks down to $350 per person, or $70 per day for all of our food & lodging, not to mention our "transportation" from one port to another. We're eating lobster. We're having dessert. I'm not looking at the prices - because there aren't any.

Even if you spent $5 on breakfast, $10 on lunch, and $15 on dinner, that only leaves you $40 for your hotel that night. An $80 hotel for 2 people might not be that bad, but you definitely won't be eating surf & turf.

2 - Time Together & Time Apart
Ah, vacation with the family. There comes a point in the trip where everyone will need their own space or want to branch out and do something different. That's the beauty of cruises. If the guys want to hang in the casino while the girls lay by the pool, awesome. If the kids want to dominate the put put course while the adults do karaoke, even better! There's a little something for everyone on the ship.... but you'll always have a place to eat a beautiful meal together and talk about your day.

3 - Maximize Your Travel (with minimal effort)
On a 4-5 day cruise, you'll hit up 1-2 different ports. On a 6-9 day cruise, you'll visit 4-5 ports. Mexico, Caribbean, Bahamas, Belize, Jamaica, Honduras, DR, Haiti.... these are just a few of the different places I've been on cruises before. The best part is, all you have to do is go to sleep in your cabin, and you'll wake up in a new tropical paradise.

Additionally, on-island activities are a great time to split up by interest. In the past we've cruised with people who are/aren't certified in SCUBA. Some folks did some diving, the others took a catamaran out for the day. Or, maybe part of your group wants to explore Mayan ruins while the rest want to swim with the dolphins or go shopping. The possibilities are endless, and there's no reason everyone can't find something they'd like to do.

4 - It's Easy to Make Everyone Happy
Have a picky eater or someone who "doesn't care where you eat dinner" but veto's every single option you throw out there? Cruises eliminate the need for excessive decision making. Your options are: formal dining or buffet. Some cruises offer additional dining options (like sushi restaurants or steakhouses) for an up charge, but I'm here to tell you the formal dining room is your friend. Having a hard time deciding between chicken and steak? Order both. Decide you want soup AND salad? Ok! Each night there are so many new, different items to choose from, everyone in your party will find something delicious to try. Eliminate arguments that start with mexican vs. italian, and enjoy the peaceful dining experience!

5 - You Make 1 Decision and Your Trip is Planned
The hardest part of booking a trip with a group is picking a date. With a cruise, that's practically your only decision. What's not to like about low-stress travel?

Seriously - try the group cruise. There's a little something for everyone and it's a great way to get your crew together.

Have you ever taken a cruise with a group?
xo

PS - More cruise tips!
10 Things You Should Know About Your Cruise
Cruise Packing List for Men
Cruise Packing List for Women
Mix & Match On Your Cruise (How to Pack Carry on Only!)

Gift Guide: Gifts for Her Under $25

Gifts for your mom, gifts for your sister, gifts for your best friends, gifts for your co-worker.... gifts for all the ladies in your life. These items are high quality, on trend, and fit in the budget nicely, as each on is under $25.

1 - H&M Tartan Scarf / 2 - Rifle Paper Co Calendar / 3 - West Elm Bud Vases / 4 - Mast Brothers Chocolate / 5 - Anthropologie Mini Volcano Candle / 6 - Tori Burch Perfume Roller

Tartan Scarf - $17
The blanket scarf has taken over, and tartan is chic. This is cozy & seasonal but will endure all winter long.

Rifle Paper Co Calendar - $22
We all love Rifle! Beautiful designs & girly notes, this is perfect for anyone with a desk or home office!

West Elm Bud Vase - $14
I'm always looking for cute little bud vases to pop a few sprigs into before guests come over. These are gorgeous and fun. Plus, you can snag 2 for under $25.

Mast Brothers Chocolate - $10
Delicious chocolate in every type of flavor. Many specialty shops (locally in Nashville you can find them at Barista Parlor) carry these chocolate bars, or you can order packs online. Chocolate is certainly the way to any woman's heart!

Capri Blue Candle - $12
Everyone loves an Anthro candle. These mini versions are adorable and fit nicely in a stocking. You could double the fun for 2 under $25, or buy one for a friend and keep one for yourself :)

Rollerball Perfume - $25
This Tori Burch rollerball comes in a cute Christmas cracker packaging, making it instantly gift-able. Sephora has a wide range of designer scents for every lady friend you have.

If anyone is shopping for me, feel free to send these all my way ;)
Which girls are on your list this year?
xo

Other Gift Guides!

Gifts Guide for Her Under $25

Gifts Guide for Him Under $25

Gift Gide for Travelers Under $25

Gift Guide for 12 Stocking Stuffers Under $12

Travel vs. College

Yesterday, an article titled 6 Lessons Travel Teaches You That College Never Will was floating around the web. Several of my friends shared it on numerous social networks, and I read it as soon as I saw the title. As a travel addict, I of course loved & agreed with every single word. I agree that college is forced on so many that aren't interested, and travel is barely offered as an option to most. I'm a huge advocate for traveling, and have never understood why a 'Gap Year' was such a faux pas in the United States (when it's so common in the rest of the world). My semester in London changed my life FOREVER, in ways I struggle to put into words when asked about it. This article didn't only make sense to me, it explained a part of my soul in a way.

However, the more I thought about it throughout the day, I realized that there are definitely two sides to this story. Two sides I've experienced personally and simultaneously: travel & college.

I attended college in the traditional sense; I started the Fall following my high school graduation, I completed it in four years, lived in a dorm (for a time), had a full coarse load, participated in campus events, ate terrible food from the cafeteria, joined clubs & organizations, was completely broke most of the time, pulled all nighters and made life long friends. I also learned about true community, hard work, and a lot about being an adult. I wouldn't trade my four years for anything.

I spent a semester abroad in London, and during that time, I traveled to 10 different countries throughout Europe and Africa. I returned to London the following year to live & work in the city. I've continued to travel the United States & visit Europe. I'm constantly searching for the next adventure and love everything this big beautiful world has to offer. I truly get sad thinking about how many wonderful places there are in the world, and that' I'll never have enough time to see them all. The best four years of my life were extended to five, when I was able to have all these incredible experiences. I can't imagine my life without this time... both as a tourist and a resident of a different corner of the earth.

There are so many things that a college experience teaches you that travel can't. I could say that farming teaches you things you'd never learn as an investment banker, and vice versa. But is that the point? Not everyone needs to know how to milk a cow or play the stock market. We all have passions, gifts and strengths that can be developed in many different ways.

The truth is, it's not travel vs. college. You can have BOTH. You can have neither. I think both sides are worth exploring, and both can offer amazing experiences, unique to themselves. All experiences & paths in life are different and can be equally incredible and beautiful.

There's no magic formula. Everyone is different. Learn about yourself and decide what's important, interesting, and turns you into the person you want to be (both personally & professionally). Don't go to college if you truly don't think you want to. You have to decide what you want and make it happen, whatever that that might be.

Don't let money discourage you from travel or college. If they are important to you, find a way to make them happen. They aren't enemies, I think they go hand in hand quite well.

I know plenty of college graduates that are struggling financially and in their career. College does not guarantee you a job, it just provides you with extra knowledge and experience. In the same thought, I know plenty of people who have traveled and are still intolerant, closed minded, and devoid of culture.

Stamps in your passport & a framed degree have this in common: they are only proof of the experience. It's truly up to you to learn about life, culture, community, yourself, others, how to contribute to society, how to love, budget, make hard decisions and who you are going to be.

Like I said, I loved this article and everything it highlighted! I just happen to think life is more à la carte than prix fixe, don't you?

Did you go to college? Travel? Neither? Both? 

Being In Two Places At Once (and how to pull it off)

Disclaimer: I know I'm crazy.

A couple of weeks ago, I managed to be at two weddings on the same day. Wedding #1 was in Washington, DC and Wedding #2 was in Wichita, KS. It's kind of like the opening scene of 27 Dresses on crack.

Quite literally half way across the country.

Unfortunately, both of these weddings were non-negotiable. One was my cousin and one was one of my best friends (for the last 12+ years). Wedding #1 was at 11am and Wedding #2 was at 6pm.  It seemed pretty impossible, but with some careful planning, we made it happen. The truth is, I didn't feel any more stressed on this trip because I typically plan ahead and pay attention to details.... so this trip just happened to be the time it all paid off. If you're just as crazy as I am, here's some guidance if you need to be in two places at once.

#1 - Make peace with missing a few things
I missed Wedding #2's rehearsal dinner and had to leave Reception #1 early. You can't have it all, so prepare yourself (and your host) that you'll miss out on a few things.

#2 - Use what you have to make it work
I'm sure you'll be shocked to know that Wichita is not a bustling metropolis with endless flight options. We had exactly 1 option to fly there in time for the wedding. Leaving DC at 2.15pm, layover in Chicago, landing in Wichita at 5.35pm. If everything went as scheduled, this would give me 25 minutes to get from the airport, change into my bridesmaids dress, and be there in time to walk down the aisle. Oh, did I not mention I was a bridesmaid in W#2? It might not have been ideal, but it worked! For this trip we booked 3 separate One Way flights and it was most definitely the cheapest and most convenient. More on that, here.

#3 - Overplan everything
Map out everything - how you're getting to/from the airport? Who is calling the cab? How long will it take you to get there? Then double check/build in back up. It takes 45 minutes to drive there and 20 minutes to go through security, but bump that to 1hour and 30 minutes. Have a 2nd cab number ready to go if your first one doesn't show up. You'll be thanking yourself later.

#4 - Pack as lightly as possible
I cannot stress this enough. This sounds like common sense, but for something like this you should definitely be carrying on. And to take it a step further, avoid the roller board bag. Often times, airlines will make you gate check (for free) larger carry ons, and you're left waiting for your bad. Time is money in this situation. For the 3 day weekend I brought a 28L backpack and a purse. This allowed me to shove the backpack in EVERY overhead bin and I never had to wait on an airline. I also used packing cubes to organize each day. I have been using them for the last couple of years and I can't tell you how amazing they are! Stick to the basics and double up as much as you can. 1 pair of jeans with a few different tops, one pair of casual flats that go with everything, etc. This will save you so much stress.

#5 - A small emergency kit is your best friend
Cash, Advil, touch up make up, bandaids, stain remover stick, granola bar, and a few bobby pins.... those are what saved me, anyway. When you're planning your weekend, think of all the things that could go wrong (like blisters or needing a tip for the cab) and decide what you could need in an emergency. You won't have time to go to CVS.

Was it worth it? Hell yes. I got to see most of my family & some of my best friends in 48 hours. I highly suggest it to anyone. The risk is worth the reward! Have you ever been to two weddings in one day? Would you ever? Do you think I'm insane? :)

Wedding in DC

Wedding in Wichita

for the (music) lovers...

When I moved to Nashville, the thing that changed the most was my accessibility to music. Love ya, Fort Myers - but you always made me drive to Orlando for shows!

The other thing that changed is how many talented people I'm surrounded by. I have so many friends who can play instruments, sing, write songs or some combination of the above. I tried to write songs once... it was awful. I can play the flute (at least I could in 8th grade) and I love me some karaoke, but that's about as 'good' at music as I get... it's best left to the professionals.

I have a friend named Amy who is super talented. She plays multiple instruments, sings beautifully, and writes all of her own stuff... and some of other people's stuff. She's got a solo project and a sweet side project (band).... and she manages to co-own a design firm called Milkglass Creative (they literally have the coolest office).

Her name is Amy Stroup, and her record, TUNNEL comes out today. If you're not excited, you should be. Here's a little preview:

recognize anyone in there?

You might have heard some of Amy's stuff on Pretty Little Liars or Grey's Anatomy, but this album really mixes it up!

If you like Tegan and Sara and other music i would consider SUPER FUN, check out "Finally Found Our Way".

Need a song for your First Dance at your wedding? Check out "Say You Won't" (the strings! so pretty). Or at least just PROMISE you won't have Butterfly Kisses anywhere in that mix. Pinky swear?

Hosting a dance party anytime soon? "Falling" should be your go-to. Followed by "Back Burner" (grab a tambourine - you'll need it).

And with a strong finish.... "Dark Runs Out" has some of the best lyrics. There's something magical about the last song being the longest, and being kind of dreamy.... and Dark Runs Out NAILS it. Gets me every time!

I could describe the entire album to you, but I honestly think you should check it out for yourself!

All the songs can be found at this link or by a search on iTunes. Or if you feel so inclined, tell Amy which song is YOUR favorite, perhaps in haiku form? :)

Any other albums I should check out? #NewMusicTuesday is probably my favorite day of the week.

xo

Ps - other awesome music.

Wanderlust Wednesday: Seattle, WA

Happy New Year to all! Now that you're one week in, do you still have a resolution? :)

I didn't really make any this year, but in the back of my mind I want to
- continually make  healthier choices
- travel more
- save more money
- finish fixing up this HOUSE

Hopefully I keep up with the first one... and the other three seem to happen easier for me ;)

Now to channel my second hope for my year, I've got a trip to Seattle happening this weekend. Long story short, but the original reasons for the trip are no longer existent, but my ticket was non refundable.... so Seattle, here I come!

This will be my second trip ever to Seattle, and I get to go again in April to assist Sharyn in getting MARRIED, and i'm so glad I can go twice in a short period of time! Because I freaking love it there.

Some places I'd highly recommend:

Using AirBNB.com - We stayed here and it was the best decision. It was about 7 blocks from Pikes Market and right by a major bus line. Not to mention we had a 2br condo for half the price of a 200 sq foot hotel room! Holler.

Portage Bay Cafe - Delicious brunch. They even have a 'toppings bar' full of fresh berries and other treats if you order french toast or pancakes.

Chocolati - Cute little coffee shop/chocolate shop in the Wallingford area.

Bauhaus Books and Coffee - Near downtown Seattle, good coffee, but awesome vibe. Has a wall full of books. I loved it.

Skillet Diner - Definitely not your mamas diner. The atmosphere was perfect and the food was divine. In the Ballard area.

Ferry to Bainbridge Island - it's really inexpensive and a nice 30 minute trip. Bainbridge Island is this cute small town with a bunch of wonderful shops and restaurants. We ate here and had ice cream here. Going there was one of my favorite nights of our trip!

Hiking Poo Poo Point - Besides it's funny name, Poo Poo Point is one of the best views i've ever seen - you can clearly see Mt. Reiner and it's beautiful. It's located in Issaquah, about 30 minutes from Seattle. The trail is moderate (a few steep points for this Florida girl, but nothing you can't handle!) Probably about a 3 hour round trip hike. On our way out, we stopped at the Issaquah Brewhouse, which is a Rogue brewery, which was a lot of fun. And well deserved after our hike!


This time, I know a few things we'll be doing:

Snowboarding at Crystal Mountain - Now let's review... I'm not very good. But it's fun! And I got my very own snowboard for Christmas from my wonderful husband :)

apparently she's a good one. i'll let ya know. via Forum

Dinner at Radiator Whisky for Traci's Birthday - this place looks AMAZING. Grilled Goat Cheese and Tomato Jam sandwich is looking like the winner... plus one of their signature cocktails, please.

Planning Sharyn's Bachlorette weekend in Victoria, BC! This i'm super excited about, because I've had BC on my list for a while now. From what I hear, it's amazing. So i'm pumped.

Drinking more coffee than I could imagine - which is fine with me, because I LOVE IT! I'd like to try here, here, and here (looks like fun!).

Have you been to Seattle? Any tips to offer? Also taking any tips from experienced visitors to Victoria, BC! xo