Slip Away to Seattle

Last week, I shared my experiences on a weekend getaway to the tiny town of La Conner—a no-miss for anyone interested in visiting the Emerald State. Today, I’m continuing my Washington travel theme. That way, you’ll be covered when planning your trip. This post focuses on Kirkland, a waterfront town only 20 minutes from Seattle.Kirkland has everything a traveler could …

Travel Talk: La Conner Washington

With the recent Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, there has been a bevy of buzz about Washington state. When most people think of Washington, their minds go to the Seattle waterfront, Pike Place Market, and the Space Needle. And those are definitely must-sees…especially Pike Place’s Turkish Delight and their famous dessert…but I’d like to introduce you to a not-so-known destination. That …

More Flowers

Just one spring flower post…like just one macaroon…isn’t enough for me. And I couldn’t think of a better dress to wear amongst the blooms than one with flowers painted on it. Dress by Ted Baker from Nordstrom. A highlight of my excursion to Washington’s Tulip Valley was seeing all the families. I loved watching the little girls whose moms had dressed them …

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

For lovers of beautiful blooms, Washington’s Tulip Festival is paradise. During April, they can participate in bike rides through the flower fields, watch small-town parades, and join throngs of people from diverse places converging to soak in the beautiful sights of spring. For more information, go to www.TulipFestival.org

Why I Love Traveling

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.” Danny Kaye These are more pictures from my Mexican adventure. One reason why I love traveling is the opportunity it gives me to meet people from various cultures with different backgrounds. I truly believe that the more we learn about and appreciate others, the more we can learn about ourselves and …

10 Tips to Surviving Swimsuit Season

Every time I go on vacay to a warm beach, there is a part of me that isn’t all that excited to put on a swimsuit. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not like I have some swimsuit-wearing phobia, but I think most girls can relate to just wanting to be able to bring on all the delicious vacay food without …

Romantic Cabo Boutique Hotel

When people think of Cabo, many conger-up images of wild partying and dancing on bars until dawn. And during Spring Break season, they imagine that squared. But this storied Mexican town actually has a romantic, and even whimsical, side. I stumbled upon this getaway on an evening stroll. Casa Bella Boutique Hotel is the perfect getaway for a couple—whether they’re …

Ten Tips to Make Air Travel Easy

!Hola Amigos! As you can see, I traveled to Cabo. I absolutely love flying off to exciting destinations. I started doing it with my family when I was little, and began taking trips on my own when I was 14. But I realize that even a seasoned flier can get caught in air-travel traps. There are so many considerations, like …

Tiny Green Oasis

Tucked into a park hidden amid the urban bustle of Seattle is a small conservatory overflowing with foliage. Time seems to stand still inside this century-old sanctuary built with a $5 kit imitating London’s Crystal Palace. Despite its size and phantom presence, over 150,000 plant aficionados make this pilgrimage each year. On any day, you can find couples sliding onto …

Seattle Winter Getaway

When it comes to a winter holiday, my heart belongs to Seattle! Everywhere you look, the city is glowing. When I was little, I pretended that each lighted tree was twirling. Regardless of whether it’s rainy, windy or snowy, people are out and about. Here are some of their favorite haunts… Downtown Holiday Carousel. Riding the ponies isn’t just for …

Merry Christmas

…from the Pacific Northwest, the emerald land of fir trees, islands, mountains, and Seahawks! I have loved everything leading up to today…the lights, wreaths on front doors, happy crowds, swags along fences, decorations, packages wrapped with care, shimmering bows, people calling out season’s greetings, reuniting with old friends, and making new ones… But most of all, I have loved the meaning …

12 Days of Christmas–Seahawks Style

You’ve probably heard of Seattle’s historic landmark, the stunning Fairmont Olympic Hotel. The circa 1924 Italian Renaissance structure is a quick ride to CenturyLink Field, home of the Seahawks. It’s also within walking distance of world class theaters, shopping, restaurants, and Pike Place Market overlooking the sea. A short hop from there is hip, young Belltown and the Space Needle. …

Shopping Spree for Candy Lovers

Everywhere I look, I spy people doing their holiday shopping—whether they’re dashing down the street on a lunch break or hitting the mall in the evening. In my dad’s mind, no matter where he is, holiday shopping involves heading straight for the candy store. Mom wanted him to try on some new clothes for events they’re attending. On his list …

Paradise Fashion in a Haunted Hotel

When I heard that Seattle’s Sorrento Hotel (circ. 1909) had undergone a renovation, I just had to see it—and find out if people claim that the fashionable grande dame is still in residence that they think has haunted it for decades. Since all who say they have seen her state that she wears vintage gowns, I donned this frock. It’s something I picked up the last …

When the Burlesque Dancer Fell for the Italian Stallion

Today, I’m reminiscing about the eighty-something live radio interviews I had when my book, The Single Girl’s Guide to Meeting European Men, was published. One of my favorites was at the grueling hour of 3:30 am, my time, with a couple of hosts from a NYC station. Their favorite story from my book was about Betsey the Burlesque Dancer, and …