Posts in Category

Travel

Even if you’ve never visited Big Sur before, chances are you’ve seen it on social media. The coastline is iconic, particularly Bixby Bridge and the highly Instagrammed McWay Falls. I’ve been dying to stay in Big Sur for years, and finally crossed this trip off my California bucket list. We originally planned on going in December, but had to cancel our trip due to COVID. We randomly chose a weekend in the distant future to visit, and it was so nice to have something to look forward to. Planning frequent staycations and daytrips has been huge for my mental health this year – as we haven’t traveled by plane in over 13 months!

Anyway, Big Sur is officially my favorite spot in California. It checks all of the boxes for me. Being out in nature amidst the most gorgeous scenery and one of my favorite hotels I’ve ever stayed at. It also has fresh organic cuisine and a feeling of being transported far away. Not to mention the drive along the coast is the most beautiful roadtrip scenery (in my opinion). It truly is a bucket list worthy destination – read on for all the details on our weekend getaway.

Big Sur Travel Guide

Big Sur Travel Guide | by The Luxi LookBig Sur Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

How to Get to Big Sur

We drove from LA to Big Sur, which is usually around a 5 hour drive. However, due to closures on CA-1 from a rock slide, you have to overshoot while driving north through Carmel and then drive south to reach Big Sur. This adds about an extra hour to the trip, but we made the most of it by stopping in Carmel Valley and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Both are worth visiting on their own! The drive along the coast is stunning and filled with jaw dropping, photo worthy moments. Take your time while driving and stop frequently to take in the beauty of mother nature. If you aren’t roadtripping, the nearest airport is Monterey (MRY – 32 miles from Big Sur). You’ll want a car to get around, unless you plan on staying put at a resort the entire time (no judgement here!).

Big Sur Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Best Time of Year to Visit Big Sur

Northern California is fairly temperate the entire year, so there isn’t really a bad time to visit Big Sur. In the summer months you’ll be able to use the pool. It does get quite hot up in the hills or in the valley. The temperature can swing wildly from the morning to midday. And, whether you’re in the forest, by the beach, or hiking on a hill. We packed a LOT of layers during our mid-March visits, and found the evenings to be quite chilly. I think the best time of year would be fall, probably September or October to take advantage of long summers in California.

Forest view for Big Sur Travel Guide

woman in white dress for Big Sur Travel Guide

Where to Stay

There are two high end resorts in Big Sur, and they happen to be conveniently located across the street from one another. Post Ranch Inn and Ventana. You cannot go wrong with either. They can be pricey, but both are all inclusive (minus alcohol) and are absolutely worth the experience. The Ventana happens to be a Hyatt property, so you can actually book your stay on points which makes it effectively free. We stayed at the Ventana and loved it – the service was incredible and we loved the food so much, we ate every meal there. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, there are various campsites throughout Big Sur that you can book in advance.

outdoor fire pit with two chairs

swimming pool surrounded by trees

woman in the outdoors holding a cup

What to Do

There actually is not too much to do in Big Sur. I personally loved the simplicity of the area and how relaxing our trip was.

+ See the sights. If you’ve never seen McWay Falls, it’s worth seeing once. But most of the surrounding trails are closed at the moment. When driving in or out of Big Sur, stop at Bixby Bridge for a photo worthy moment.

+ Hiking – we did an 8 mile hike at Andrew Molera State Park that was so much fun. There are a few steep parts, but it’s mostly an easy to moderate trail that takes you through redwoods, hills, and along the beach. There are tons of trails in Big Sur, so it’s a great destination for hikers!

+ Visit the beach – Pfeiffer Beach has purple sand (which is pretty cool) and a lot of people set up a chair or beach tent and spend the day there.

+ Stop in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Carmel Valley. Carmel-by-the-Sea has a more upscale (think Big Little Lies) vibe and has great beaches and tasting rooms in town, versus Carmel Valley which feels quieter and more rustic. I love both, and am dying to go back to visit and explore more.

If we had more time I would have probably done another hike and then relaxed more at our resort by the pool or done a spa treatment. Like I said, it’s a very relaxing place to visit. Also, cell service is very limited throughout – which is honestly kind of a pro in my book?

Big Sur Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Big Sur Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Big Sur Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Where to Eat

Dining options are slightly limited in Big Sur, but you can’t go wrong with anything you choose. As of March 2021, several restaurants were still closed, but two of my favorites from driving through Big Sur in the past are:

Big Sur Bakery – there’s always a line for coffee and pastries (which typically sell out by mid morning), but their lunch and dinner offerings are delicious as well, and perfect for a picnic.

Nepenthe – try to request a seat on the patio with a view and order the burger. A quintessential Big Sur spot.

I’ve heard wonderful things about Sierra Mar (the restaurant at Post Ranch Inn), but it is currently open only to guests of the resort. The sushi restaurant at Treebones Resort is also supposed to be phenomenal, but due to the road closures along CA-1 it’s very hard to get to from most of Big Sur.

Have you ever visited Big Sur? What are your favorite spots and things to do?

The year 2020 solidified my love of the day [road] trip. At this point, we are becoming day trip pros. We can have our bags packed and be ready to go within the hour. I am personally a huge fan of getting away for just the day – much less planning involved. And, you get to explore for a full day, but still spend the night in your own bed. (Which is a win-win in my book.) We’ve been exploring our own backyard all summer as we slowly started stepping out to “travel” again. I’m a little ashamed to admit how many local spots I had never visited, despite living in Southern California for over six years. I’ve come to truly appreciate all that Southern California has to offer. And wanted to share some of my favorite spots for a quick day trip from LA.

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles | by The Luxi Look

Santa Barbara

Less than 2 hours up the coast from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Staying a night (or two) is highly preferred. But if you only have a day, you can still squeeze a lot out. Santa Barbara’s weather is much more temperate than Los Angeles, even in the summer it doesn’t get unbearably hot. My favorite way to spend the day is to drive up early in the morning, grab a coffee at Handlebar Coffee Roasters, and hang out by the beach. We usually bring the pup with us, so Hendry’s Beach is a favorite – it’s dog friendly, and has a great restaurant right on the beach.

Some of my other favorite things to do: go wine tasting in the Funk Zone or at the Frequency Wines tasting room, grab Mexican food at La Super Rica or Los Agaves, or go on an easy hike (the trails are relatively flat).

If you have more time, there’s even more wine tasting less than an hour away in Santa Ynez.

If you’re completely charmed by Santa Barbara (it’s hard not to be!) and want to splurge on a room for a night, check out the Ritz Carlton Bacara ($$$$) or the new-ish Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito ($$$).

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles | by The Luxi Look

quick beach destinations

quick beach destinations

Catalina Island

Catalina Island

A few weeks ago I visited Catalina Island for the very first time. I’m a little embarrassed to admit that after 6+ years in Los Angeles I’d never made the trip. But the sentiment I heard from many locals is that they’re guilty of the same! If you haven’t been, you shouldn’t sleep on it. Yes, you can only get there by boat or helicopter, but it’s totally doable for a day trip.

If you’re heading for the day, you can catch an early ferry. (Book in advance as times and spots are limited currently due to COVID). The island is charming in the sense that it feels like time has frozen. And everything on the island is an institution.

There’s a lot to do on the island, you can hang by the beach (reserve a beach chair at Descanso Beach Club in advance and try the island’s signature drink, a Buffalo Milk!), go paddleboarding or kayaking, golf, or even go ziplining. If nothing else, I highly recommend embarking on a self-guided golf cart tour to explore the island further.

Catalina feels like Disneyland – but in a good way. A day trip for me was more than enough, but I’ve heard great things about camping on the island and staying at Pavilion Hotel right on the main street.

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles | by The Luxi Look

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles | by The Luxi Look

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles | by The Luxi Look

3 Easy Day Trips to Take from Los Angeles | by The Luxi Look

Los Alamos

Los Alamos

Los Alamos is a tiny town about 2.5 hours from Los Angeles that’s perfect for a quick getaway. Or a stop if you’re driving further north along the coast. I visited “Little Los Angeles” a month ago and can see why it’s often compared to LA. The entire town along Bell Street is only 7 blocks long and feels reminiscent of the Old West. I loved Los Alamos and would love to come back to spend a night or two at Skyview Los Alamos.

While you’re there, stop at one of the many tasting rooms along Bell Street – Bodega (Pinterest dreams come true) and Casa Dumetz are highly recommended.

If you’re a foodie, you’re in luck! Los Alamos punches above its weight class when it comes to dining out. Snag a reservation at Bell’s, a French bistro that is reason enough to make a visit to Los Alamos (run by Food and Wine’s “Best New Chef” Daisy Ryan!). We really loved Bob’s Well Bread (get the bread, duh), which was started by a former Sony exec who took his love for all things bread to Los Alamos.

What are your favorite day trips?

 

 

Zion Travel Guide

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Life and travel these days is a lot different than a year ago, but I’m not complaining. Between the pandemic and wildfires on the west coast, we’ve been feeling a stronger desire than ever to escape the city life in favor of nature and smaller towns.

[ See: my Zillow searches all over Wyoming and Utah for a ranch. ]

After staying in LA for the past 6 months, we made a last-minute decision to finally get out and visit a few national parks. We’ve been wanting to visit Zion and Bryce National Park for a couple of years now, so I was really excited to be finally pulling the trigger on a road trip.

Zion Travel Guide

To start off, I’ll be honest – I’m not the most outdoorsy girl. My idea of a hike is usually going to Runyon Canyon… but any hesitance I had about taking a hiking oriented trip quickly disappeared as soon as we breathed in the fresh air and took in the natural beauty the parks had to offer. And obviously, we aren’t alone – I’ve seen more people taking road trips than ever this year, and I have to say I’m here for it.

I’m all for traveling safely during this pandemic, and I think a road trip or camping trip is one of the best ways to do it. I’ll get into my thoughts on traveling in the middle of the pandemic later on, but I wanted to share everything you need to know before visiting Zion and Bryce. From how to get there, what to do/see/pack/eat, and all of the logistics you need to know while planning a trip. There are so many guides and blog posts already on Zion that have more details on specific hikes, but this is my take on a guide to Zion for the maybe not so traditionally outdoorsy visitor.

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

How to get to Zion

From LA, Zion is about a 7-hour drive. If you stop for gas or food or need to take a break, it’ll likely take a little longer. To shorten the driving time, you can also fly into Vegas and drive the 2-2.5 hours from there. We drove the entire way (stopping for In-N-Out, obviously!) and found the drive to be manageable. There isn’t too much to see between Vegas and Zion, so I’d suggest filling up on gas and snacks and driving straight through to Zion.

When to go and how long to stay for

This really depends on what you like to do and how much time you have. If you’re really cramped for time, you could do 1 day in each park and see the main attractions. Also if you have more time to spare, I would recommend at least 2 days in Zion and 1-2 days in Bryce. If you don’t like hiking you could probably even see both parks in one day, but I personally would recommend 3-4 days split between the two parks. It’s really up to you.

As far as the best time of year to visit, apparently October is one of the best months as the weather has cooled down a bit. The summer (June through Labor Day) is the most popular time of year to visit, but you will run into huge crowds then. Even in the middle of September, Zion felt very crowded. The weather during our visit in mid-September was still pretty hot – parts of the park can reach over 100 degrees during the day and then drop down to the 40s and 50s at night. The park rangers mentioned May as a great time of year to visit as well, although it can still be a bit chilly. Winters are gorgeous in the park, but it may be snowy or too cold to hike. Weather can vary a lot in the desert and mountains, so always do your research before you pack!

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Where to stay

We booked our Zion trip about a week and a half out on a whim and were really relieved to find that in mid-September you could easily book lodging! However, for more popular spots apparently you need to book a few months in advance at least.

We stayed at Zion Wildflower, a new resort that opened just this year that is located about 20 minutes outside of the park. We chose to stay in one of their glamping tents – if you’ve never “glamped” before I would recommend trying the experience out at least once for the novelty. They also had options to stay in a wagon (giving me major Oregon Trail vibes!) or their individual bungalows, which are equipped with AC and a bathroom.

As far as staying in a tent goes, the beds at Zion Wildflower were extremely comfortable and the bedding was very warm. There’s also a portable AC unit in the tent which comes in handy during the day (you don’t need it at night). During the day time the tent is unbearably hot when it’s 100+ degrees outside, but you’re also in Utah so… go take a hike : ). The tents also had 2 extra twin-sized beds, which is perfect if you’re traveling with friends or even children. The bathroom situation was super easy and clean. If you stay in a tent or wagon, there are shared bathrooms with showers and toilets.

A note on sleeping in a tent

You will feel and hear the wind for most of the night. For that reason, I did not sleep well for the first two nights because I was constantly being woken up in the middle of the night by the wind or thought someone was unzipping our tent.

Overall, the resort was super cute and the employees were incredibly nice. We utilized the shared space to make s’mores at night (they give you the cutest s’mores kit when you check-in) and grill one night for dinner. I loved our stay overall and would absolutely recommend checking them out if you’re looking for a unique glamping experience outside Zion.

The other glamping option in Zion is at Under Canvas – they’re a more established glamping resort with locations over various national parks. I initially wanted to stay here but they were fully booked during our travel dates. I also read that they don’t have outlets in the tent, so if you book here be sure to bring an external charger or two. However, they do have bathrooms in the tents, which is definitely a bonus if you’re looking for a more luxurious experience.

If you’re looking for a more traditional lodge stay, Zion Lodge Hotel is the only hotel inside the park and incredibly popular for that reason.

This resort books up far in advance, so definitely book early. I would also recommend staying in Springdale, the town right outside the park. You can either walk or take the free shuttle to the park entrance and you’ll be close enough to catch the sunrises and sunsets inside the park. These rental units caught my eye when we were driving out of the park one day, their website shows that they also book up far in advance.

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

National Park Tips

What to do

+ Hike!

If you’re visiting Zion, you’re most likely there to hike. Angel’s Landing and the Narrows are the two most popular hikes. You could theoretically do both in a day if you’re up for it, but if you only have time or energy to do one, I would hands down recommend the Narrows (the bottom-up hike – if you want to do the longer top-down hike you need a permit). Don’t get me wrong, Angel’s Landing is beautiful, but it’s extremely crowded and the chain rail section that the hike is known for is currently closed due to COVID-19. The Narrows is a unique experience you likely won’t do anywhere else – and is absolutely worth the trip and the effort. More information on the Narrows below, but for both hikes, I’d recommend an early start.

Other trails we hiked: Emerald Pools/Kayenta Trail, Canyon Overlook, and Kolob Canyon. We were really excited about Observation Point but found out it’s been closed for some time due to a bad rockslide. We were also hoping to check out Watchman Trail and Hidden Canyon, but these trails are also closed. Check with the visitor center or a park ranger the day of your visit as conditions are constantly changing – especially if you are planning on hiking the Narrows.

+ Ride bikes through the park

There are tons of shops right outside the park that rent bikes and electric bikes for half and full-day rentals. Renting a bike is a great way to see the park as you don’t need a shuttle ticket to get around and the roads are paved and mostly flat. You can also access the scenic path that is otherwise only accessible to the shuttle buses and stop along the way to take photos or hike.

+ Take a drive through the park

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can take a scenic drive through the park from the visitor center to the east entrance. The entire drive will about an hour and you’ll have a lot of opportunities to stop along the way for easier walks and hikes. Easy trails I’d recommend if you don’t want anything too strenuous are Canyon Overlook (easy 1-mile loop, very little elevation) or Pa’rus Trail, which is flat and paved (it’s also is the only trail in the park that allows dogs!).

Zion National Park Tips

+ You’ll need to buy a pass for admission.

We bought the National Park Pass that gives you access to all parks for a year – for $80 it’s an incredible deal! Plus, your money is going towards preserving our national parks which are truly some of our nation’s treasures. If you visit 3 parks in a year your pass pays for itself – and with the ongoing pandemic, it’s a good excuse to get out and enjoy some fresh air, which I’m sure we all need. We’ve already bookmarked other parks we are looking forward to visiting over the next year.

+ Parking inside the park fills up quickly, usually by 8 or 9 am.

You can also park in Springdale and walk or take the shuttle to the entrance, but this will run you about $20 a day. In a similar vein, it’s definitely better to get to the park earlier in the day to avoid the crowds. Catching the sunrise in the park is also worth the early morning wakeup call.

+ Book your shuttle tickets in advance!

Because of the pandemic, shuttle tickets are timed and slots are limited. Tickets are released two weeks in advance for half of the month. If you miss out on buying advance shuttle tickets, you have a few options.

You can walk up to ride the shuttle after 3 pm every day, opt to ride a bike around the park, hire a private shuttle to take you through the park (these cost between $30-$40 per person), or try your luck at booking last minute shuttle tickets the day before. Every day, shuttle tickets for the following day go on sale at 10 am Mountain Time. We were able to snag tickets really easily this way – you just have to be online and ready to buy them on the dot. Try to buy the earliest shuttle passes in the day, this gives you a lot more flexibility when it comes time to enter the park. If this sounds stressful, trust me it’s not. It’s still much easier than buying Coachella tickets (RIP).

On that note, I do have to admit – Zion feels a little like Disneyland.

Not in a bad way necessarily, but because the park is so popular (it’s the 3rd most popular national park in the US) there are people everywhere and at times very long lines for the shuttle. If you’re looking for a more secluded hiking experience, Zion probably isn’t the best park for you. I still think it’s absolutely worth the visit – the park is breathtakingly stunning – but you won’t ever really feel like you’re truly alone in nature.

+ Pack enough water and snacks

It gets hot inside the park and once you’re on the trail you really don’t have many options for food or water. It’s absolutely worth it to invest in a proper backpack to carry everything you need. More on snacks below!

+ Make sure you have proper gear

The main items I would recommend are proper hiking shoes (light trail runners will suffice for most of Zion, but for some trails, you might want sturdier hiking boots with ankle support), lightweight socks, moisture-wicking clothes, a hat, and sunscreen.

National Park Tips

National Park Tips

Tips for the Narrows

By far, the Narrows was the highlight of our trip. It was unlike anything I’ve ever done, and even though I had a lot of concerns about hiking in a river, I ended up absolutely loving it. The most important things to keep in mind – preparation is key, and go at your own pace.

+ The entire hike is about 9 miles in the water, but because it’s out and back you can turn back at any time.

We started around 10:30am and got back to the shuttle around 2:30pm – hiking in the river surprisingly takes a lot out of you. I would say go earlier in the day to avoid crowds, however, the mornings are colder. Around noon the sun started hitting the river and it warmed up significantly.

+ If you aren’t a super experienced hiker I would say you absolutely need to rent equipment for the narrows.

Sure, you can do it without (and we saw many people doing it in their regular trail running shoes or even barefoot in sandals), but I really wouldn’t recommend it. Due to the current – which can be strong – and the rocks, you really want a waterproof shoe that has toe and ankle support. Since you most likely don’t own anything that foots the bill, you can rent a day hiking set for $25 at Zion Outfitters, which is located right outside the park. For summer months, you’ll get a pair of boots, neoprene socks, and a walking stick. I can’t imagine doing this hike without that equipment – I would have turned back much earlier than I did in actuality. On colder days, you can also rent pants that will keep you warmer in the water.

+ The water is cold, but bearable in summer months.

At parts, the Narrows can get fairly deep – up to your waist, depending on how tall you are – so it’s important to also wear moisture-wicking clothes. I made the mistake of wearing cheap biker shorts I got from Amazon that are not ideal for water , and ended up with heat rash all over my legs. No good.

National Park Tips

National Park Tips

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

A note on Bryce

+ We only did a day trip to Bryce from Zion (it’s a quick 2-hour drive between the two parks). But I highly recommend making the trek if you have time. This may not be a popular opinion, but in some ways, I actually preferred Bryce to Zion. The views aren’t as majestic as the massive rocks in Zion. But the hoodoos and much smaller crowds make it worth it. Also, because so many of the trails in Zion were closed, we actually enjoyed our hike in Bryce much more.

+ Lodging and dining is much more limited in Bryce than Springdale. There are a few lodges and Airbnbs nearby. But the area feels significantly sparser than Springdale. We brought our own lunch and snacks the day we visited.

+ The two most popular hikes are the Figure 8 Loop (6.4 miles) and Fairyland Loop (8 miles). Both are moderately strenuous and give you incredible views of the canyons and hoodoos.

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Where to eat

Before leaving LA we packed up the car with tons of snacks and a cooler full of drinks. I’m SO glad we did. We did dine at a restaurant outside a couple of times in Springdale (which is super cute and has some of the best food outside a national park I’ve ever had), but we also cooked a meal at Zion Wildflower and ate a lot of snacks and sandwiches on the go either in the car or in between hikes. A few spots I would suggest in Springdale:

+ Feel Love Coffee

A cute new coffee shop with a lot of unique specialty lattes. It’s expensive though – don’t be surprised if your latte with non-dairy milk ends up running you close to $10. You can also park here for the day and walk over to the visitor center easily.

+ Oscar’s

Popular Tex-Mex restaurant, there’s usually a wait but it moves quickly. The food, while a little heavy, honestly hits the spot after a long day of hiking.

+ King’s Landing Bistro

More upscale dining by local standards but the food is really good. Plus if you snag a table outdoors you get a beautiful view of the park and sunset.

Other restaurants we didn’t eat at but heard good things about:

Cafe Soleil for breakfast/lunch, Spotted Dog Cafe, and Bit & Spur.

There’s a great natural food market in Springdale as well. Sol Foods has all of the snacks and beverages you could want for your stay in Utah.

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

Zion Travel Guide | by The Luxi Look

What I’m glad I packed

+ Shoes & socks

Before I left LA, I went to REI (probably for the first time ever) and bought a pair of trail runners. And some Smartwool socks – honestly money very well spent. This combination kept my feet dry and blister-free for the entirety of the trip.

+ Electrolytes

Zion is over 4,000 feet above sea level and Bryce is over 8,000 feet above sea level. So you can easily feel the altitude whether you are hiking or not. I felt weirdly dehydrated for most of the trip. But drinking Nuun throughout the day as opposed to when I already felt dehydrated made a huge difference.

+ Sunscreen

You’re in the sun all day and the last thing you want is a sunburn when you have multiple days of hiking planned. Supergoop is my favorite sunscreen brand that I wear every day regardless.

+ Hiking hat

Technically I stole AJ’s. But after making fun of him for wearing it in the past I learned firsthand how helpful it is to wear this hat on the trail. A normal baseball hat works as well. But ideally, you have something with a wide brim that can shield your face and the back of your neck.

+ Lots of layers

The temperature swings a lot throughout the day and the weather can change at a moment’s notice. Thin and packable lightweight layers go a long way.

+ Blister bandaids

We didn’t need to use these, but they are so much better than regular bandaids at covering and healing blisters. These are a lifesaver for any shoe, but especially when you are logging 10+ miles a day.

+ Our own snacks and meals

National parks aren’t known for having the best food. And with the current pandemic, we didn’t want to spend too much time dining out around other people. Thankfully we had a big cooler. So we packed a ton of food for the drive and our hikes and replenished throughout the trip.

What we brought:

  • Dried mango
  • Turkey jerky
  • Lesser Evil Popcorn
  • Dave’s Killer Bagels
  • Protein bars
  • Justin’s almond butter packets
  • Deli meat for sandwiches
  • Ready to drink cold brew (<< a must for early mornings before the coffee shops open)

What I wish I packed

+ Lotion and anti-itch cream.

The desert is so incredibly dry, even by LA standards. My skin had a complete freak out and I ended up with hiker’s rash all over my legs.

+ More functional clothing

Some activewear sets are more for lounging or aesthetic than actual performance. When I was actually on the trails I found myself wishing for more technical fabrics and clothing that had pockets and zippers. Lululemon makes great functional pieces that also happen to be cute. (A pocket for your phone, zipper for keys and credit card, etc.).

What I’d do if we had more time

+ More trails

There are so many options for hiking in Zion and Bryce. If hiking is your thing you could easily spend a week between the two parks. Because of the trail closures, we ended up doing most of the trails we were interested in. But I would happily come back in the future to explore more of the parks.

+ Visit a different park

Utah has 5 national parks, in addition to Zion and Bryce there are Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef National Parks. They aren’t terribly close though. So if you want to hit all 5 on a trip you will definitely need over a week to see them all and drive through the state.

+ Additional local sites

I’ve still been meaning to visit Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. And hope we will be able to make another road trip throughout the Southwest sometime this year

Is it safe to travel right now?

Finally, I want to address traveling during the pandemic – definitely a sensitive topic at the moment. This is not something we took lightly. As we felt extremely confused by the regulations and risks associated with traveling. And weighed the pros and cons of doing so for a very long time. Ultimately, we decided that being outdoors and finding destinations within a drivable distance would be the safest way to travel.

We also agreed that if we were going to travel, we’d want to adhere to as many safety precautions as possible. For us, this meant wearing masks in public and avoiding crowded public spaces, particularly indoors, and proper hygiene practices. I actually felt travelers and locals alike adhered to rules and mask compliance was incredibly high in Utah where we went. We also looked up case numbers by county and state to make sure we wouldn’t be traveling to an area with a known outbreak. As far as future travel goes, we would like to get tested more frequently before and after (possibly even during) to ensure that we are doing our best to keep others safe.

The decision to travel is highly personal. We did our best to be safe and make educated decisions along the way. And try to allow our decisions to be guided by the latest scientific studies on transmission. And the likelihood of transmission via different activities. In the meantime, the future of our travel will likely be a lot more local and outdoor. And after this trip, I’m truly ok with that.

If Sardinia isn’t on your summer holiday radar yet, it needs to be! Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily!) and is a perfect destination for the summer. We just came back from 5 days on the island and it was the best way to end summer. Note that September in Italy marks the end of the high season as the European summer vacationers have left and the weather becomes more unpredictable. On the bright side, this means fewer crowds and tourists – which is an absolute win in my book. We loved Sardinia for many reasons (the food, kind people, beautiful landscape and beaches to name just a few…) but what stood out to us was how the island felt so much less developed and touristy than some other popular European holiday destinations. See below for some of the highlights from our time in Sardinia.

Travel Diary: Scenes from Sardinia | by The Luxi Look

Travel Diary: Scenes from Sardinia | by The Luxi Look

Travel Diary: Scenes from Sardinia | by The Luxi Look

scenery

cactus

Travel Diary: Scenes from Sardinia | by The Luxi Look

How to get there

From the states, particularly the west coast, getting to Sardinia is a trek! For Europeans, it is a much easier trip to make. We flew from Milan – the island has 3 airports (Olbia, Cagliari, and Alghero) so depending on where you are staying you will want to choose the airport accordingly. Once you are there, I highly recommend renting a car so you can explore more of the island.

When to visit

Sardinia is an island largely driven by tourism in the summer. So, the best time of year to visit is (in my opinion) between May and September. By the time we were on the island in mid-September, some of the beach bars and restaurants were already closed. Tour groups were also showing limited availability. Of course, in July and August, you will be battling much larger crowds. If you do go in the summer, make sure to book rental cars, restaurant reservations, and activities further in advance as things do book up quickly!

Where to stay

We split our time between Olbia and Cagliari. Each of the main cities has something different to offer. Olbia was much closer to Porto Cervo and the beaches along the northern coast of the island. Cagliari was a much larger city and seemed to have more to offer in terms of restaurants and nightlife. It really depends on what kind of vacation you’re looking for. If you are looking for something more ritzy and glamorous, I would look into a resort along Costa Smeralda (the Emerald Coast). Cala di Volpe is the most famous resort in the area. I heard wonderful things about Su Gologone (and their restaurant!) which is further inland as well. Airbnb isn’t as big of a thing in Sardinia (yet) but is also an option I always love when traveling abroad.

What to do

+ Sail around the island

one of our favorite things we did on the trip. You can go with a group or rent your own dinghy for the day. Go from cove to cove to swim in the crystal clear waters.

+ Explore the island by car

again, I highly recommend exploring the island by car. There are so many beautiful beaches tucked away along the coast that you need a car in order to visit (note – the roads are extremely narrow and windy in many parts!). If beaches aren’t your things, Sardinia is also known for archaeological sites and caves. There is so much history on the island!

+ Eat at an agriturismo

these are farmhouses that double as B&Bs and restaurants. Typically for between 30-40 euros per person, you are served a Sardinian feast complete with aperitivo, wine, and several courses of pasta, meat, and fish. It is not a luxury dining experience, but very homey and delicious. If you are looking for something for upscale, there are many fine dining options in Porto Cervo and the surrounding area. Be sure to try traditional Sardinian dishes such as spaghetti with bottarga (salted, cured fish roe), suckling pig, and fregola.

+  Spend a day in Costa Smeralda

Sardinia’s Emerald Coast is renowned for its beautiful beaches and water. This is the area where you will find the nicest resorts and subsequently the highest prices. However, it is absolutely worth it to spend a day wandering around the shops in Porto Cervo and having aperitivo along the water.

+ Spend a day in Cagliari

walk off some of the pasta by wandering through the town (there is a bit of a hike to get to the top of the city where you will find the best views!) and stop along the way to visit local shops and have an espresso. The market is not to be missed, as well.

Travel Diary: Scenes from Sardinia | by The Luxi Look

Travel Diary: Scenes from Sardinia | by The Luxi Look

wine and pasta

vacation fashion

Travel Diary: Scenes from Sardinia | by The Luxi Look

drinks and snacks

Palm Springs is without a doubt my favorite weekend getaway from Los Angeles. I always come back feeling so calm and refreshed – the desert has the most relaxing, zen like quality. For friends and family from out of town who ask what there is to do in Palm Springs, I always say not too much, and honestly that is the best part. My everyday speed tends to be go, go, go and it’s incredibly hard for me to “do nothing.” Going to Palm Springs is always a bit of a reset for me, because it forces me to live in the moment and practice the art of doing nothing. I highly recommend it as a way to recharge your mind, body, and soul. A Palm Springs weekend typically looks like a lot of laying by the pool, reading, sipping a glass or rosé, and maybe an easy bike ride to town. Here’s how I like to spend a weekend in Palm Springs.

Palm Tree

How to Spend a Weekend in Palm Springs | by The Luxi Look

How to Spend a Weekend in Palm Springs | by The Luxi Look

Where to Stay

The first step to having the best Palm Springs experience is determining where to stay. You can’t really go wrong in Palm Springs, but these are my tried and true spots.

+ Best Overall Vibe & Experience – The Parker.

Although it can be pricey (go mid-week for a more affordable room rate), it’s definitely worth the splurge. The hotel has a resort-like feel and you won’t have any reason to go off the grounds unless you want to. I could spend days laying by the pool ordering drinks from the Lemonade Stand and fresh summer rolls while reading a good book.

Norma’s is a favorite for breakfast and lunch, and the wine bar Counter Reformation is a total hidden gem. I’ve heard the spa, Psyc, is incredible as well. Even if you don’t stay on site, I highly recommend stopping by for breakfast and to check out the chic decor in the lobby.

Most Romantic – Korakia Pensione.

Perfect for a couple’s getaway. The vibes are a mix between Morocco and Greece, and the resort feels private and secluded. Even though it’s an Instagrammer’s dream, they are strict about not allowing photos unless you’re a guest at the hotel. It’s truly an oasis in the desert, even though it’s only a short walk from downtown Palm Springs.

Best for a Girl’s Weekend – Ace Hotel.

Admittedly, I haven’t stayed here yet, but it’s on my list. My girlfriends swear by the Ace for a relaxed girl’s weekend in Palm Springs. The pool scene is a little younger and more hip, and the breakfast at King’s Highway is a must.

Best for a Group – Airbnb.

Some of my favorite Palm Springs trips have been with a group of friends at a rented house found on Airbnb. There are so many properties available and this allows you to explore some of the neighborhoods and admire the mid-century decor and architecture in Palm Springs. Make sure you find one with a pool and stock up on food and drinks for the weekend.

Best Overall Vibe & Experience - The Parker.

How to Spend a Weekend in Palm Springs | by The Luxi Look

What to Do

Truthfully, there isn’t a TON to do, but if you are up for activities and some sight-seeing, I recommend the following.

+ Palm Springs Art Museum

If you’re interested in seeing and learning more about mid-century design and regional art. For more modern art installations, I recommend checking out Desert X.

+ Aerial Tramway

For a view of the desert below.  In some months, it’ll be sweltering hot at the bottom and you’ll see snow at the top of the mountain!

+ Visit Joshua Tree 

Approximately an hour drive from Palm Springs. Personally, I think Joshua Tree & Pioneertown warrant a weekend trip of their own, but if you want to get everything done in one weekend you can wake up early and try to catch the sunrise from the park.

Otherwise hang back and enjoy the desert vibes and sip a cocktail by the pool – there’s no better way to relax and unwind.

What are your favorite things to do in Palm Springs?

What are your favorite things to do in Palm Springs?

 

1 2 3 4 5 8 Page 3 of 8