Author Archives: theweekenderfiles

A Hyyge Thanksgiving: Scandinavia & The Baltics

A Hyyge Thanksgiving: Scandinavia & The Baltics

Thanksgiving is often synonymous with turkey, stuffing, and gathering around the dinner table, but this year, I traded the traditional feast for an adventure through the heart of Scandinavia and the Baltics. From Copenhagen’s hygge-filled charm to the medieval allure of Tallinn, the cosmopolitan vibes of Helsinki, and Riga’s Art Nouveau wonders, this week-long journey was nothing short of magical.

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Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen

Our Scandinavian adventure began in the Danish capital, Copenhagen, where we stayed at the luxurious Villa Copenhagen which is super conveniently located in front of the train station. It’s only about 25 minutes from the airport.

This historic hotel effortlessly blends timeless elegance with modern design. The rooftop pool, heated year-round, provided the perfect place to unwind while enjoying views of the city.

Day 2: Explore the Hygge Capital

  • Nyhavn: This postcard-perfect harbor lined with colorful 17th-century townhouses was the ideal spot for a morning coffee.
  • Tivoli Gardens: Dressed in its holiday finest, Tivoli was a winter wonderland of lights, festive markets, and thrilling rides. Did you know Walt Disney was inspired by Tivoli to create Disneyland?
  • Rosenborg Castle: We marveled at the Danish crown jewels and strolled through the surrounding King’s Garden. We even got super lucky that November is when the royal family stays in the castle and the changing of the guards is extra special!

Don’t forget to embrace the Danish concept of “hygge” (coziness) with a warm cinnamon roll and hot chocolate at a local café.

Day 3: Riga – Art Nouveau Elegance

Next, we flew to Riga, Latvia’s capital, where we stayed in the heart of the Old Town. The city welcomed us with its distinctive blend of Gothic spires and Art Nouveau facades.

  • Art Nouveau District: Alberta Street felt like stepping into an open-air museum. Every building was a masterpiece.
  • Central Market: Housed in former Zeppelin hangars, this market was a sensory delight of local delicacies, from smoked fish to decadent pastries.
  • St. Peter’s Church: The panoramic views from the church tower were a breathtaking way to see the city’s skyline.

Pro Tip: Try a glass of Riga Black Balsam, a traditional herbal liqueur, to warm up after exploring the city.

Day 4-5: Tallinn – A Medieval Dream

From Riga, we traveled to Tallinn, Estonia, a city that feels like stepping back in time. Staying at the charming Schlössle Hotel, we enjoyed a blend of medieval ambiance and modern luxury.

  • Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cobblestone streets, and ancient walls of Tallinn’s Old Town were straight out of a fairy tale.
  • Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: This iconic onion-domed church added a touch of Russian opulence to the medieval skyline.
  • Christmas Market: The market in Town Hall Square was magical, with stalls selling handmade crafts, mulled wine, and festive treats.

Tallinn’s charm lies in its authenticity. Be sure to dine at a medieval-style restaurant like Olde Hansa for a truly unique experience.

Day 6-7: Helsinki – Nordic Cool

Our journey concluded in Helsinki, Finland’s vibrant capital. We stayed at the newly opened Hotel Maria, a boutique gem that exemplified Nordic minimalism with a luxurious twist.

Highlights:

  • Design District: This area was a treasure trove of Finnish design, from sleek furniture to artisan ceramics.
  • Temppeliaukio Church: Known as the “Rock Church,” its unique architecture carved into natural rock left us in awe.
  • Suomenlinna Fortress: A short ferry ride took us to this UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of exploring.

No visit to Helsinki is complete without experiencing a traditional Finnish sauna. Combine it with a dip in the icy Baltic Sea for the full experience!

This week-long adventure through Scandinavia and the Baltics was a perfect blend of history, culture, and seasonal magic. Each city offered its own unique charm, from Copenhagen’s cozy vibes to Helsinki’s Nordic cool. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone seeking an unforgettable getaway, this region is a must-visit.

So, why settle for a traditional Thanksgiving when you can feast on the wonders of Scandinavia and the Baltics? Let this be your sign to plan your next adventure.

Itinerary at a Glance

  • Day 1 – Arrive in Copenhagen

    Check into the Villa Copenhagen where you can begin your exploration of this cozy city. Conveniently situated next to the train station.

  • Day 2 – Explore Copenhagen

    Check out the Little Mermaid statue and loop around Rosenberg Castle enjoying a cinnamon roll along the way!

  • Day 3 – Riga

    Stay in the Old Town and explore the Art Nouveau District.

  • Day 4 – Tallin

    Set out in the evening for a cute Christmas Market and delicious eats!

  • Day 5 – Tallin

    Explore the Old Town and visit the beautiful Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

  • Day 6 – Five Star Ferry

    Embark on a luxury ferry with MyStar Tallink to beautiful Helsinki. Warm yourself with a sauna and then take a quick dip in the Baltic Sea.

  • Day 7 – Helsinki

    Explore in the iconic Design District and take a ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress for a nice stroll!

  • Day 8 – Depart

Before You Go

Useful Phrases

While English is widely spoken in Scandinavia and the Baltics, learning a few local phrases can enhance your experience:

Danish (Copenhagen, Denmark):

  • “Hej” (Hi)
  • “Tak” (Thank you)
  • “Hvor er toilettet?” (Where is the bathroom?)

Latvian (Riga, Latvia):

  • “Sveiki” (Hello)
  • “Paldies” (Thank you)
  • “Cik tas maksā?” (How much does it cost?)

Estonian (Tallinn, Estonia):

  • “Tere” (Hello)
  • “Aitäh” (Thank you)
  • “Kus on tualett?” (Where is the restroom?)

Finnish (Helsinki, Finland):

“Missä on vessa?” (Where is the toilet?)

“Hei” (Hello)

“Kiitos” (Thank you)

Climate

Late November in Scandinavia and the Baltics is chilly but magical, with festive markets and cozy atmospheres. Here’s what to expect:

  • Temperatures: Typically range from 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C). It’s colder in Tallinn and Helsinki, especially in the evenings.
  • Weather: Pack for a mix of light rain, overcast skies, and the occasional crisp, sunny day. Snow is possible in northern areas like Finland and Estonia.
  • What to Pack:
    • Warm layers (sweaters, thermals, scarves, and gloves)
    • A waterproof coat or parka
    • Comfortable, insulated walking shoes or boots
    • A hat for extra warmth
    • Your finest furs if you can!

With the right preparation and a few handy phrases, your journey through Scandinavia and the Baltics will be as seamless as it is spectacular!

Share Your Adventures!

Have you explored Scandinavia or the Baltics, or are you planning your own journey? I’d love to hear about your experiences, favorite spots, or any questions you have about these enchanting destinations. Drop your stories and tips in the comments below—let’s keep the travel inspiration flowing

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Malaysia: The Lush Country You Need to Add to your Travel Bucket List

Malaysia: The Lush Country You Need to Add to your Travel Bucket List

Kuala Lumpur – An Urban Oasis

As soon as I landed in KL I was awe-struck. The people were friendly and their hospitality is unmatched. The drive into the City though a bit long is beautiful! The country is 65% lush greenery after all. Once in the City you are met with such sophistication. This is a first world country in all respects. Check out the itinerary below for some inspiration or contact me to help you make your next bougie on a budget trip a reality!

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Prepare for a week of unparalleled luxury and indulgence as we embark on an unforgettable journey through Malaysia’s most captivating destinations. From the vibrant streets of Kuala Lumpur to the serene shores of Langkawi, join me on an odyssey where opulence meets adventure, and every moment is a celebration of the extraordinary.

Day 1: Arrival in KL

I am not the type of person to stay just anywhere! But I am not going to pay a pretty penny for it if I can help it. Malaysia is one of the few places where five star hotels are CHEAP! I can recommend other hotels but by far the most conveniently located has to be the Mandarin Oriental. Bonus points if you are an MO member because you can get free breakfast which will be super helpful if you are an early riser like me!

Don’t expect most things to be open any earlier than 10 am! I was very surprised that they run on island time.

If you arrive in KL early, hitting the City sights will be a short walk away from the hotel. You can check out the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve which is a rainforest right in the middle of the City!

You know the famous CN tower? Well KL has one just like it and you can go up to the top where you can get incredible views of the City.

Day 2: Petronas Twin Towers

Start with a visit to the awe-inspiring Petronas Twin Towers. Be sure to purchase your tickets a few days in advance as it is likely to sell out. Did you know the Petronas Twin Towers used to be the tallest buildings in the world before Dubai took their claim?

Marvel at the feat of architecture before indulging in a shopping spree right underneath at Suria KLCC mall. Home to luxury boutiques and designer labels you’ll find everything under the sun! Definitely better than any malls we have at home in the States.

Day 3: Batu Caves

Wake up bright and early to head out just a bit outside the City to the majestic Batu Caves. You can take a train which is a nice experience but Grab’s (their version of Uber) is so cheap it’s quicker to drive everywhere.

The stunning Hindu shrines of Batu Caves are nestled within the limestone caverns are captivating. Be sure to cover your knees and shoulders before entering as it is a holy place. You can rent a sarong at the entrance if you forget.

Also, watch out for the monkeys. They are cute but can be aggressive and will steal your things.

When you make your way back to the City get on the Hop On Hop Off! Normally I wouldn’t recommend it but a lot of the sights are far from each other and on different ends of the City.

The best sights to visit in my personal opinion are the Perdana Botanic Gardens, The National Palace and the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. The best part is one of the stops is right at the Mandarin Oriental!

Day 5: The Danna

Fly to Langkawi and arrive at The Danna, an exquisite sanctuary of luxury and serenity nestled amidst lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Included in the price of your stay is a transfer to and from the airport and it’s only 15 minutes away from the airport. If you can opt for the ocean view take advantage! It is in incredible!

Day 6: Cable Car Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating cable car ride to the summit of Langkawi’s iconic Gunung Mat Cincang, where panoramic views of the island’s lush landscapes and turquoise waters await. If you’re anything like me and severely afraid of heights despite wanting to be Indiana Jones you may need the rest of the afternoon to recover!

Otherwise head to the other side of the Island for duty free shopping and more pristine beaches.

Day 7: Mangrove Tour

Wake up early and delve into the island’s natural wonders with a mangrove tour, where you’ll navigate through winding waterways, spotting exotic wildlife and ancient limestone formations along the way.

Itinerary at a Glance

  • Day 1 – Arrive in Kuala Lumpur

    Check into the Mandarin Oriental where you can begin your exploration of this vibrant city. Conveniently situated at the foot of the Petronas Twin Towers.

  • Day 2 – Malaysia’s Islamic Heritage

    Discover another facet of Malaysia’s cultural mix with a visit to the Islamic Arts Museum, the largest of its kind in southeast Asia.

  • Day 3 – Cave Temple

    Wake up early to head to Sam Poh Tong Temple, hewn into a cave at the foot of a limestone pinnacle. Watch out with the monkeys!

  • Day 4 – Cameron Highlands

    Set out early for Boh Tea Plantation, where you try your hand at picking tea leaves, observe the artful work of processing tea and sip a freshly brewed cup yourself. This afternoon, choose to explore this scenic area during a hike through a cloud forest, or relax at your hotel, savoring a traditional high tea.

  • Day 5 – Langkawi

    Fly to Langkawi and arrive at The Danna, an exquisite sanctuary of luxury and serenity nestled amidst lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Check into your luxurious accommodations and unwind with a leisurely stroll along the resort’s private beach.

  • Day 6 – Cable Car Magic

    Embark on an exhilarating cable car ride to the summit of Langkawi’s iconic Gunung Mat Cincang, where panoramic views of the island’s lush landscapes and turquoise waters await.

  • Day 7 – Mangroves

    Delve into the island’s natural wonders with a mangrove tour, where you’ll navigate through winding waterways, spotting exotic wildlife and ancient limestone formations along the way.

  • Day 8 – Depart

Before You Go

Useful Phrases

Although Malaysia has most things in both English and Malay. It doesn’t hurt to know some key phrases in Malay!

Kurang Kurang Kurang Manis – less less less sweet

Malaysians have a notorious sweet tooth. Be sure to ask for less sweet, I can assure you that even if you have a sweet tooth. It will be too sweet!

Tandas – toilet

Gula – sugar

Jalan – Generally “street”

Kurang Pedas – less spicy

Malaysian sambal is incredible spicy. I am Mexican and love spice. Malaysian sambal is too spicy!

Climate

Malaysia is a tropical area. That means it is hot and humid all year. However, the best time to go is December to March when it is the “dry season”

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Rejuvenate Your Soul: A Luxurious Weekend Getaway at Civana Wellness

Rejuvenate Your Soul: A Luxurious Weekend Getaway at Civana Wellness

Hey there fellow weekenders! I recently embarked on a soul-reviving weekend retreat that I can’t wait to share with you. Join me on my journey into tranquility and well-being at Civana Wellness, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of nature.

Day 1: Arrival and Serenity Unveiled

Upon arriving at Civana Wellness, I was instantly captivated by the serene atmosphere and lush surroundings. The resort is located in the picturesque desert oasis of Carefree, Arizona. Just north of Scottsdale it seamlessly blends luxury with wellness, making it the perfect haven for those seeking a holistic escape.

Accommodations:

I had watched plenty of reviews on Youtube, but nothing could prepare me for the size of our room! It was so spacious and offered breathtaking views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. The minimalist yet cozy design immediately set the tone for relaxation.

Wellness Offerings:

Civana Wellness takes a holistic approach to well-being, offering an array of wellness programs and activities. Our first day was dedicated to exploring the resort’s extensive menu of spa treatments, yoga classes, and mindfulness sessions. The intuitive and knowledgeable staff made sure every experience was tailored to my needs, providing a truly personalized journey to rejuvenation.

We settled on a Chakra Balancing Sound & Mediation. The teacher’s voice was so relaxing and I knew this was going to be a great start to our wellness weekend.

Earlier in the day as we explored the grounds, we stumbled upon a Gratitude class which really helped settle us into the intention of what it means to go on a wellness retreat.

Dining Experience:

Civana’s commitment to well-rounded wellness extends to its culinary offerings. I savored every bite of the thoughtfully crafted, nutritionally balanced meals at Terras, the resort’s signature restaurant. The farm-to-table concept ensures that each dish is a celebration of local flavors, contributing to the overall nourishment of the body and soul.

Day 2: Active Adventures and Inner Peace

Seed Market:

If you are a coffee and smoothie lover, Seed Market is the way to start fueling your day. The menu of smoothies is incredible! We tried all of them and they were each as delicious as the next. The Schroomy Cacao with a shot of espresso was to die for!

Outdoor Activities:

Eager to explore the natural beauty surrounding Civana, I set out on a guided hike through the enchanting desert trails. The resort’s commitment to sustainable tourism was evident as I immersed myself in the breathtaking landscapes while learning about the delicate ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.

Fitness and Yoga:

Civana Wellness caters to both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking gentle rejuvenation. I participated in invigorating Chakra Yoga class, allowing me to align my body and mind. The variety of activities ensured that every guest could find the perfect balance for their individual wellness journey.

Mindful Relaxation:

After an active day, I indulged in moments of mindful relaxation at the Civana Spa. The state-of-the-art facilities and skilled therapists offered a diverse range of healing treatments, leaving me with a profound sense of tranquility and balance.

New Year, New Vision:

I have never been one to journal. In fact I wouldn’t even know where to start. But the teacher for the Journaling class was phenomenal. She helped us tap into our deepest feelings and I felt rejuvenated after journaling for almost an hour! I am definitely going to make journaling part of my daily intentions for the next year.

Day 3: Farewell

Our last day was bittersweet. We spent such a relaxing time and we were so sad to leave! But we couldn’t leave without going to one final yoga class! It was the perfect way to end our day and a great way to reset before driving back home to San Diego!

As I bid farewell to Civana Wellness, I couldn’t help but reflect on the transformative experience that awaited every guest. This hidden sanctuary not only provided a luxurious escape but also served as a catalyst for personal well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned wellness traveler or a first-time seeker, Civana is a destination that will leave you refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on the world, or in our case the New Year!

Final Tips & Cost

Be sure to schedule yourself in for as many classes as you can the first day and even the day before you arrive with their online system. You might find the classes have filled up and waiting to get off the waitlist is no fun!

We booked through the Amex Travel portal and took advantage of the 5x points and the additional perks so we spent a bit more than what it costs regularly.

We spent a total of $2,150.00, this included the stay for 4 people in a double queen room, $100 experience credit and $30 per person (max 2) for breakfast.

We also went right for New Years Eve so prices should be a bit cheaper!

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Featured Articles : Basically Famous

I’ve had an exciting start to the week! We had two articles about our business Delixias this week! One in the SD Voyager and another at my sisters school paper at Pepperdine. It is such an incredible honor to be featured and I cannot wait to get the editorial print so I can frame it in my “office”.

The links to both are down below if you want to check them out as well as the link to our shop!

SD Voyager

♡ Meet Alexandra and Natalia Escobedo of Delixias

Pepperdine Graphic

♡ Small Businesses Power Through the Pandemic

Delixias

♡ Shop Now

Room Update x Joshua Vides

So unless you’ve been living under a rock you know that Fendi just released the California Sky collection in collaboration visual artist Joshua Vides. The collection is super amazing and is the inspiration for how I finally decided to decorate my bedroom.

Now my bedroom was obviously decorated to my style which is very white very minimalistic very clean. My bags and shoes are on bookshelves – hello basic instablogger but whatever it looks nice!

The thing was there has always been something missing from my room. I have some art in my room like my baby Jeff Koons balloon dog and some prints I got while I was at his exhibit in Mexico City last year (You can read more about that here), but I haven’t put those up at all because I just didn’t really have a home for them. That is… until now! The only problem is I haven’t anything to hang them with so for now they’re framing my Balenciaga baseball cap and my Fendi monsters bag.

I started just with the door and then I saw the air vent and did that too. I thought of stopping there and making just a vignette but I got inspired the more I painted and I simply just kept going. Pretty soon the crown molding was painted black as well as the outline of my window. As I am writing this I am waiting for some arrows I got at the Dollar Tree to dry but let’s just say I have to fix the window because it came out pretty ratchet.

I repurposed a pretty ugly canvas which only had like an inspirational quote on it and painted the Fendi Caffe table design on it. It hangs over my bed now and on the wall next to it are three outlines for the prints I mentioned before which I have to figure out how to put up on the wall since they’re not glued to the canvas yet.

This project has inspired me loads. I am already a pretty creative person but sometimes I just have a block and I have no real concrete ideas or what I am doing just feels stale. Well right now I am feeling all of those creative juices flowing and I think I may be spiraling out of control and will probably end up with tons of arts and crafts that I don’t need and won’t have a place for but who knows we will see how long this creative run lasts.

Taking a poll, I am thinking of putting my plaster to good use and make my own Future Relics. Let me know what you think in the comments and if I should do a vlog on it too!

For now, my room feels a lot more like me and really all it took was seeing Joshua Vides work for Fendi. I know it’s kind of lame that all I am doing is copying his style but like imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. And like to be honest I would kind of kill to be his apprentice because his artwork is so cool and so simple yet so complex at the same time. Joshua Vides please make me your apprentice!!!!

Definitely take a look into his work Reality to Idea because it is AMAZEBALLS!!!

Recipe: Spicy Peanut Noodles

I am obsessed with this Half Baked Harvest recipe! (We tweaked it at home so this isn’t the original recipe so if you want the original check the recipe here.) It is just so damn good and it’s a great way to get rid of any leftover vegetables quick! These noodles are everything!!!! Spicy peanuty and so freaking delicious.

Ingredients

Chili Garlic Oil

♥ 1/3 cup of oil (we use Avocado Oil)

♥ 2 tablespoons of Salsa Macha – Peanut (you can add more or less depending on the spice level you want)

Noodles

♥ 2 packets of ramen noodles

♥1/2 cup of peanut butter

♥ 1/2 cup of soy sauce

♥ 1-2 tablespoons of Gochujang (this is optional)

♥ 2 tablespoons of sesame oil

♥ 1 teaspoon of honey

♥ 1 inch fresh ginger, grated

♥ 2 bell peppers

♥ 1 cup of matchstick carrots – or julienned carrots

♥ peanuts for garnish

♥ 1/2 cup of fresh basil

(You can add any other vegetables to this as you’d like)

Directions

  1. The chili oil is super easy to make simply heat a medium skillet on medium heat at the salsa macha peanut sauce and oil. Cook until toasted about 2-3 minutes or fragrant.
  2. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package.
  3. Combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, Gochujang, sesame oil, vinegar, honey, ginger, and 1/4 cup water in a food processor or blender. Pulse until combined and smooth. Pour the sauce over the hot noodles. Add the carrots and bell pepper and basil. Toss to combine.
  4. Divide the noodles among bowls and serve topped with chili oil basil and peanuts. Enjoy! 

hurricane, utah: the mini guide

Hurricane, Utah: The Mini Guide

I have been dying to go to Utah for a few years now and I finally was able too! Thank you lockdown since I can travel to places in the USA that I’ve been wanting to go without sacrificing my paycheck. I could of course take the vacation time but honestly I don’t think it’s worth it right now. I am digressing though, I want to stay at the Amangiri so badly but I am not balling that hard just yet. This trip was super unplanned and it was extremely fun. I don’t recommend doing this trip unplanned though if you have a list of things you want to hash out that are pretty important when it comes to visiting the land of Zion National Park.

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Monday: Wake up at 8 a.m. and the drive there was incredible considering there was absolutely not traffic at all. We made it to Vegas around noon and caught up with the fam. We spent some time at the outlets buying a few last minute things for our trip and then we were on our way to Utah!

We stayed at the Sand Hollow Resort which is in Hurricane, Utah and is only 2 hours away from Vegas. The trip allows you to go through three states in the same day not bad at all! Once we dropped of our things at the resort we took some time to lounge by the pool and then went to pick up some groceries.

We stayed in separate rooms and we booked a double suite…..let me tell you the surprise that we got when we realized it was a huge one bedroom apartment with a full kitchen and washer/dryer. A total game changer when you can bring home clean clothes after a long vacation!

Tuesday: We’re just getting our bearings and getting used to the extreme dry heat of Utah and we spent the morning in the pool and then went just outside the resort in the late afternoon to check out the Beach at Sand Hollow. It’s a manmade lake with reddish orange sand that makes you feel like you’re on another planet.

We had booked dune buggies for 6 p.m. thinking it would be cooler and getting a bit darker around that time. Let me tell you this was not the case, it was still very very hot but it was so much fun! We went up the canyon to the “top of the world” and ended our dune buggie adventure by driving through the water at the beach. The water felt so cold because it is so hot out but really the water is around 85 degrees. We were drenched in water but the heat quickly dried us up.

Wednesday: Like I said our trip was super last minute and we didn’t get a chance to book the shuttle at Zion National Park so we could get up the mountain and go to all of the places where everyone typically takes photographs like the narrows all the way at the top.

We stayed on the Pa’rus Trail since this was our first time and we did have little ones with us. We still were able to wade in the water of the Virgin River and caught a glimpse of deer up close!

Thursday: Another relaxed day by the pool until about 4 p.m. when we rented some golf carts and drove around the golf course which has absolutely incredible views and is partially built into the canyon. Honestly it was beautiful and looked and felt like I was on the Cars ride at Disneyland.

We had been talking about doing star gazing a few days before but it wasn’t happening anywhere near where we were nor was it the season apparently. We got so incredibly lucky though because the Astronomy Club was doing free stargazing for those staying at the resort! Let me tell you this was so unexpected and it was an amazing experience because we were able to see the planets aligned with the moon! It was beautiful and I wish I had gotten a photo of the other planets and not just the moon.

Friday: Last day and we’re on our way out but not before we make another stop in Vegas for food and some more shopping!


  • Day 1: Drive to Vegas

  • Day 2: Beach at Sand Hollow

  • Day 3 : Hike Zion National Park

  • Day 4: Golf & Stargazin

  • Day 5: Shopping Trip in Vegas

Before You Go

Where to Eat

the area is not very populated but the city isn’t too far from the resort, we went to Smith’s marketplace (it’s a Kroger brand), Walmart and Target. We didn’t just eat in our apartments though, we did venture out when we were in Zion and we also ate at the Resort’s restaurant The Grille. While you’re in Zion of course some places are closed because of the Coronavirus but Porter’s is super good! On our last day night we went to the Resort’s restaurant and let me tell you definitely share a pizza or two they are enormous and we ordered that and basically one of everything on the menu since we were a large party but it was way toooo much food. So heed my warning just get the pizza it was absolutely incredible! The Grille views are also just as incredible you get sweeping views of Zion National Park in the distance.

What to Do

Zion National Park – we stayed on the Pa’rus Trail because it is easy and we missed out on the shuttle to get to the top of the park and go through the Narrows. If you’re planning on doing all of that be sure to either get there at park opening or get your tickets the month before.

We rented Dune Buggies at the resort with Mad Moose Rentals and let me tell you it is so much fun and you get all sandy and you can finish off your ride by cooling off at the lake.

Stargazing – we were incredibly lucky to be at the resort at the exact moment where this was going to happen. If you can do it there are other places where you can do this such as at Bryce Canyon.

Golf Cart – we rented a golf cart and took a drive through the canyon and the beautiful golf course. A rental is only $25 and you pretty much can take it out all day but we only took it out for a few hours because the heat is death.

Where to Stay

Sand Hollow Resort – this resort is great for families and if you love golf the course is incredible and has stunning views of Zion in the distance and the red rocks in the other direction.

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Binge Worthy Shows I’ve Watched

I promise, I do more than watch TV in quarantine… I do more than watch TV quarantine notwithstanding but I love watching TV for entertainment and white noise when working or even to sleep. I KNOW I KNOW everyone is going to hate on me for this but I need the TV on to fall asleep.

I have an incredibly eclectic taste in television and I’ll watch anything that peaks my interest. Some things I vehemently will deny wanting to watch but sometimes I end up doing so if I am out of stuff to watch.

ALRIGHT- Get ready to binge….

BINGE WORTHY SHOWS WORTH WATCHING

GUILTY PLEASURES

+ Tiger King: If you haven’t watched this and refuse to, do yourself a favor and watch it. It is a complete roller coaster and it is just a fun watch….aside from knowing that these poor animals are treated not the best.

DRAMA/CRIME/SUSPENSE

+ Outerbanks: Ok so as soon as this came out I knew I had to watch it. I didn’t realize it was going to be a coming of age story but the drama in this and the romance is incredible and I am dying for season 2 to start filming as soon as this pandemic is over.

+ The Stranger: British show – that’s all I need to say because pretty much all British dramas are incredible.

+ Little Fires Everywhere: So I haven’t read the books but this story line is incredible and Reese Witherspoon’s acting is beyond incredible. I kind of of hate Kerry Washington in this show but that is neither here nor there as her acting is incredible – her character is just super easy to hate.

+ Unorthodox: this is a short watch but it was incredible and based on someone’s story. Now I’m sure not al Hasidic Jew relationships are like the one in this story but it gave an interesting look into the very tight knit community.

GIRL POWER/COMEDY

+ Workin’ Moms: this show is HILARIOUS that’s it that’s all I’m saying. Watch it it’s amazing.

+ Kim’s Convenience: As a minority this show is hilarious because I understand the humor behind it even though I am obviously not Korean. This show is just too funny and definitely worth the watch.

PERIOD DRAMAS

+ Outlander: the drama, the sexiness that is Sam Heughan. The beauty of Scotland. You will not want to miss out on this steamy period drama.

+ The Witcher: Okay so I know that this technically isn’t a period drama but it takes place in like Medieval times so let’s roll with it. I didn’t read the books and I don’t play the video game but oh my god Henry Cavill can make anything absolutely incredible. Also this story is just so well written and it keeps you on your toes. Definitely was pissed when I finished the season and have to wait until 2022 to watch the next season.

+ The Last Kingdom: Okay so sexy men in period dramas is kind of like my jam and Alexander Dreymon needs to be on everyone’s radar.

ANIMATED / CARTOONS

+ SHE-RA The Princess of Power: If you are a fan of 1980’s cartoons you know that He-Man’s counterpart is She-ra. I will say I have not liked the ending of the current season but this is still definitely worth a watch as this reboot is pretty amazing.

+ Voltron: Another 1980’s cartoon reboot. This animation is fun and keeps you wanting more! Definitely worth the watch.

+ The Dragon Prince: This is a great show, animation is incredible and the story line keeps you on your toes.

+ Anything & Everything Guillermo del Toro x Dreamworks Animation: They’re all great just watch them. They all tie together too so you’ll get to explore secondary character story lines!

Recipe: Healthy Cookies N Cream Kit Kat

Obleas are the most versatile snack to make either in a salty snack or a sweet snack! If you don’t know what an oblea is, let me enlighten you!

It’s simply a wafer! Similar to a Stroopwafel for all you Dutch snack lovers!

If you are familiar to the Mexican Oblea you know that it’s usually sold in packs in a ton of colors and is usually flavorless. Sometimes it is sold as a sandwich with either cajeta or chamoy for the filling.

However you enjoy these emblematic snacks you should definitely stay tuned for the recipes I will be posting to elevate your Oblea experience! You can purchase the Obleas directly from my site here but for now you’re on your own for the rest of the ingredients.

But you’re here for the recipe so let me hush up and get to it:

The ingredients you will need are:

♥1 packet of Cacao Wafers (you’ll only need a couple so these are optional)

♥ 1 packet of Linaza Wafers

♥ 1/2 cup of sugar free white chocolate

Directions:

♥ Crush 2-3 cacao wafers

♥ Melt chocolate in a steam bath. Stirring constantly so as not to burn the chocolate.

♥ Work in layers, adding chocolate to each Linaza wafer and stacking.

♥ Once you have no more obleas, cover the stack in remaining white chocolate and crushed Cacao wafers.

♥ Refrigerate for 15 minutes and enjoy!

The best part of this recipes is that is low calorie and if you use the chocolate we use it is also Keto friendly! The wafers are made with amaranth flour so they are healthy in of themselves and only 1 calorie per wafer! This whole recipes is filling and satisfying for a little over 100 calories!

Delixias : Delicious Snacks for the Healthy Eater

Okay so you guys are probably over my bs haha but I swear this is the last business venture for a while!

So you may have seen a few posts with some products. Well I am selling those products! They come all the way from Mexico and I am making them available nationwide! Maybe internationally too if anyone wants!

Okay but let me backtracks just a little bit. My sister and I are absolutely obsessed with these snacks and that salsa macha goes on literally everything we eat… Not joking.. we do and it’s amazing.

We wanted to share these incredible snacks with everyone because they deserve to be showcased. They are healthy snacks and incredibly delicious.

So thus our business is conceived: Delixias.

Delixias is a snack delivery service (and e-commerce) which specializes in delicious snacks for the healthy eater. The products we sell include kosher, gluten free and vegan products! How amazing is that!

You can purchase our products via our website or you can dm us on Instagram with your order. We accept, PayPal and Venmo.

We sold out of almost everything by the second day and we are waiting on an order that is coming in tomorrow. So get your pre orders in and we can make sure you get your snacks! You can also join the newsletter for updates on when we get in new products!

Salsa Macha Arandano
Charrito Amaranto Pikin
Oblea Carbon Activado

Memorial Day Sales Roundup

Happy Memorial day guys! I know things are slowly opening back up but we still can’t gather so I’m hoping you have something fun planned inside your homes or backyards! If you aren’t having fun though what better way to beat the ‘rona blues than by doing a little bit of sale shopping! The sales this year are kinda major, so I decided to share a little round up of my top favorite sales + what I am personally eyeing.

Have a safe/fun/relaxing day & happy shopping!

1 | 2 | 3

Theory

15% off sitewide with code SHOPSTYLE15. Personally, I have a collection of the Jatinn Dress in Good Wool. Every time a color goes on sale I buy it. I work in an office and it is perfect office attire especially for the summer! Yes even if it is wool!

Nordstrom Rack

Up to 60% off Activewear from top brands like Champion and 90 Degree by Reflex. These sneakers are giving me life. The pastels are super chic and they match the Theory dress I love! A great way to dress down formal work attire for everyday!

Naadam

25% off select styles sitewide with code SUNNY25. Valid 5/20 – 5/26. Okay I know we can’t travel yet but how cute is this travel set! I cannot wait to travel in style again!

psa: why you need to steam your sheets

So a while back I posted on Instagram asking if I was the only crazy person who steams her sheets. Well I was surprised that pretty much everyone said I was crazy! It actually isn’t that crazy and right now you should all be doing it too!

Benefits of steaming:

♡ Steaming your sheets not only leaves them smelling good (if you spray linen spray on the sheets first) between washes but it also gets rid of bacteria! And I am not making that up either! According to the CDC, heat of 167 degrees or more is sufficient to kill respiratory viruses like the flu.

♡ Crisp bed sheets when you go to bed! Picture this, you’re on vacation at a Ritz Carlton, you’ve just ended a long day of sightseeing, you hop in the bath and are ready for bed. There is no better feeling than climbing into a fluffy bed with crisp linens.

What I Use:

I am obsessed with my Salav Steamer. It’s great for your clothes and your sheets duh! Super easy to use and it’s so much simpler than ironing.