2022 Sydlovesfashion Bozeman Travel Guide

Last fall, Trevor Noah announced that his "Back to Abnormal" comedy tour would be heading to Bozeman, Montana. As a big fan of both "The Daily Show" and Montana, I instantly booked tickets and encouraged a few friends to do the same. A few weeks prior to the event, Trevor ended up rescheduling the show in order to host the White House Correspondents Dinner that same weekend, but my family and I were already committed to the trip so we decided to go anyway and I'm so glad we did. Our long weekend in Bozeman was one of the best trips we've taken in a while and we can't wait to go back. Over the course of a few days, we visited with some friends who moved to Bozeman during the pandemic, checked out all the local shops on Main Street, dined around town, stopped in on a local comedy show, and even visited Yellowstone National Park. Here is my travel guide on the best places to shop, eat, stay, and play in Bozeman, Montana.  

How to Get There from Seattle

According to Google, the drive to Bozeman from Seattle is approximately 10 hours and 53 minutes via I-90 East. If we had more time to dedicate to this trip, driving might have been a more cost-effective option for our family, but since we only had a long weekend to spare, we decided to forgo the drive time and maximize our time in Bozeman instead. Non-stop flights from Seattle run about $415 per person on  Alaska Airlines and there's generally a morning, afternoon, and evening flight option available. 

Once we arrived in Bozeman, it was really easy to rent a car from Hertz and get on our way. If you're a AAA member, you'll save money on fuel, car seats, and adding additional drivers to the car. 

Where to Stay 

Located in the heart of downtown Bozeman, the Kimpton Armory Hotel offers convenient access to everything on Main Street including coffee shops, boutiques, restaurants, and more. We've stayed at many Kimpton Hotels before and have always had a great experience, so I'm pleased to report that this hotel provided all the usual amenities and services that we've come to expect. The rooms were clean and spacious, there were multiple restaurants on-site, and valet parking was quick and easy. 

Where to Eat

The first night we arrived, we met up with friends for drinks at Tune Up, the basement bar at the Armory Hotel. Last Best Comedy was hosting an open mic night and we enjoyed drinks and laughs as a prelude to our dinner up at the Sky Shed, the hotel's rooftop bar complete with fire pits and relaxing mountain views. Everything is great on the Sky Shed menu, but we really liked the Furikake Fries, Fried Chicken Bao Bun, and Coconut Curry. 

On our second night, friends of ours that moved from Queen Anne to Bozeman during the pandemic took us out on a date night to Brigade. Known for sourcing local ingredients and putting them together in a creative way, Brigade has some great options on the menu including regional charcuterie boards, black truffle gnocchi, and wild mushroom ragu. They also do a happy hour every day from 3-6 p.m. where you can get $3 martinis, oysters, and draft beers. 

If you're looking for coffee to power up your day, don't miss Wild Joe's on Main Street. They serve a great selection of locally roasted coffees and they also offer grab-and-go sandwiches and drinks and snacks for kids. My daughter loved the "Fluffy" which is a foamy steamed milk drink with chocolate, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles, of course. 

While in town we also checked out Revelry, located just steps away from The Armory Hotel. I liked that they had unexpected things on the menu like the house-smoked trout and avocado toast, frites & fondue, and coal-fired beet and cranberry salad. The beer and cocktail menu was great, too. 

The Armory Hotel actually has 3 restaurants on-site, and on our final night we dined at Fieldlings. It's the fancier of the three restaurants and the menu features fresh ingredients from local purveyors. We liked the house-made ricotta served with grilled sourdough bread and the beef short rib rigatoni. 

Bozeman Food & Drink List

Revelry - 24 N Tracy Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715

Brigade -  233 E Main St Suite 201, Bozeman, MT 59715

Fieldlings-  24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman, MT 59715 (Located at The Armory Hotel)

Sky Shed-  24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman, MT 59715 (Located at The Armory Hotel)

Tune Up - 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman, MT 59715 (Located at The Armory Hotel)

Wild Joe's Coffee - 18 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715

The Hideaway (Liquor Store/Dive Bar/Casino) - 1625 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715

What To Do

Yellowstone - Bozeman is located about 1 hour and 45 minutes away from Yellowstone National Park. If you've never been, it's definitely worth the drive. On our trip, we saw a ton of animals including deer, bison, elk, wolves, birds, and even mountain goats. It was really fun for the kids to try and spot animals with their binoculars and they kept a running list of everything they spotted. The north entrance of the park is located in Gardiner, Montana and the entrance fee is $35. 

Sweet Pea Festival - If you're heading to Bozeman in August, don't miss the Sweet Pea Festival. This year, the festival is celebrating its 45th anniversary and the event will include food, music, art, flowers, dance performances, and more. This event is a great opportunity to check out the "Best Of" Bozeman and wristbands are available now. 

Country Bookshelf - Bookworms and casual readers alike will love Country Bookshelf. It was founded in 1957 and continues to be a place where locals of all ages can come to find great books. It's even been named by Martha Stewart as one of the "Best Place to Find the Best Reads" and they also have a robust calendar of events. 

Museum of the Rockies - A friend of ours recommended that we take the kids to the Museum of the Rockies, and with interactive exhibits and a full planetarium, it did not disappoint. Located on the campus of Montana State University, the museum has an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils and a T. rex skeleton. The gift shop is great, too!

Where to Shop

Downtown main street in Bozeman is brimming with bars, restaurants, and local boutiques. It was a fun place to shop and explore while we were in town. As is the case with many small towns, the customer service was amazing and it was fun getting to know the locals. 

Heyday - Since 2007, Heyday boutique has been a great place in downtown Bozeman to shop for apparel, accessories, home goods, and gifts. The store is bright and airy and the team is eager to help you find exactly what you need, and maybe even a few things you don't, because when it comes to a well-edited assortment of must-have merchandise, they've got the formula dialed in. You can even shop online and enjoy $8 flat rate shipping. 

Mōka - Located in the heart of downtown Bozeman, Mōka is a great place to visit whether you need a wardrobe refresh or a fun outfit to wear for a night on the town. They have great shoes and accessories, and even offer sizes for teens. 

Jonah & Sage - Small town boutiques like Jonah & Sage are truly what make cities like Bozeman great places to shop. Locally owned & operated since 2001, the store is designed to outfit locals for whatever Big Sky Country brings their way. They carry a variety of brands including Commonform jewelry, which is lovingly handmade in Montana by my dear friend Stacy. I also love the fact that they have menswear, home goods, and gifts, making it a one-stop shop for everything on your list. 

Bonnie & Clyde - If you're looking for contemporary clothing in Bozeman, don't miss Bonnie & Clyde, located in the Main Street Market. Nestled just past the cafe and coffee bar, Bonnie & Clyde is brimming with shoes, clothing, bags, accessories, jewelry, and more. I got a great pair of summer sandals here that I can't wait to wear once the weather in Seattle warms up!

The Last Word

Bozeman was a delightful, family-friendly place to visit and we will definitely be booking another trip soon. The friendly atmosphere and small-town vibe will always have a special place in our hearts. It was definitely a trip to remember!

If you visit Bozeman and check out any of the places on this list, please tag @Sydlovesfashion on Instagram so that I can ride along on your adventure, too!

Summer 2021 Travel Guide: Kauai

Kauai is one of the most beautiful places on earth. I actually lived on the island for several years as a kid and it's always had a special place in my heart. My family loves it too, so we try and visit as often as we can. Kauai is Hawaii's fourth-largest island and is often called the "Garden Island" for its lush greenery. The island is less touristy than other islands and most things shut down by 9 p.m., so you're forced to relax and enjoy the scenery. After a crazy year of working from home while also homeschooling the kids due to the pandemic, we desperately needed this recharge. Read on for my guide on all things Kauai. 

Best Place to Stay

We always stay at the Kauai Beach Resort when we visit the island. We've stayed there many times over the years and always had a great experience. The hotel is located in Lihue near the airport and has been a great home base for us when we visit. The rooms are spacious and if you can get a view with an ocean view, even better. 

One of the best things about this hotel is that there are four swimming pools, including one with a water slide. We also loved the convenience of the poolside outdoor bar. For littles, there's a super shallow, sandy pool that has a great water feature.  

The hotel also has a great gift shop/coffee bar that serves Starbucks coffee and pastries. It was a great way to start the day and pick up snacks before heading out on our daily adventures. The hotel also has a great bar and restaurant for dine-in or take-out. One of the things we loved about our recent visit was the fact that you can now order and pay remotely via your phone and pick up your food at the hostess stand once it's ready. Technology is the best. 

We found ourselves at Shutter's Lounge multiple times on our trip. They do great fish tacos and Kalbi beef bowls. They also have a great kids menu which was helpful since we have notoriously picky eaters. 

Best Beach for Kids

Kauai Beach Resort is less than 10 minutes away from Lydgate Beach Park, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. This beach is protected from the ocean by a rock wall, making it a great choice for kids and for those who want to snorkel. There are also lifeguards on-site and a shaded playground nearby that is great for kids who need a break from the sun. There are also on-site facilities including picnic areas and restrooms. 

Best Beach on the Island

Hanalei Bay is the best beach on Kauai. Although it's not the easiest to get to at the moment due to recent andslides and subsequent construction, it's worth the drive. Located on Kauai's North shore just past Princeville, Hanalei offers clear blue water, white sand, and sweeping views of gorgeous green mountains. The historic pier was built in 1892 and still offers visitors a stunning backdrop for beach days and sunset picnics. 

Check Hawaii's DOT site for traffic info before heading out to stay up to date on lane closures and traffic revisions. 

Best Beach for Spotting Sea Turtles

Poipu Beach is a great place to spot sea turtles on Kauai. We spotted them several times surfing the waves when we visited the beach and each sighting was magical! The drive to Poipu Beach from Kapaa is about 40 minutes by car and you get to pass through a beautiful tree tunnel on the way. Poipu Beach has a great swimming area with lifeguards plus a playground for kids.  You can also get a legendary Puka Dog across the street from the beach. 

Best Place for Beach Rentals

There are many great places to rent beach equipment on Kauai including sun umbrellas, bodyboards, coolers, beach chairs, inflatables, and more. We rented from Kauai Snorkel Rentals located at Coconut Marketplace in Kauai. The prices are great, $15 for a week-long body board rental, and the process was super easy. We simply showed up, picked out our gear, and brought it back a week later. This is a WAY better alternative to buying gear and leaving it behind at the end of the trip. We talked to locals about this issue and it sounds like island tourists are notorious for this. Please be mindful of the environment and the footprint you leave behind when you visit Hawaii. 

Best Shave Ice

I could literally eat shave ice every day and I probably would if I lived in Hawaii. We loved Jojo's Shave Ice at the Coconut Marketplace in Kapaa and went back several times during our time. They offer so many delicious flavor combinations but our favorite was definitely the classic Rainbow (Strawerry, Banana, Vanilla) with Macadamia nut ice cream. Shave ice makes a great snack on a hot day and the small size was big enough to share. 

Best Poke Bowl

If you're a poke fan, don't miss the fresh fish at Foodland in Princeville. For less than $10 you can get a rice bowl topped with fresh poke. Voted Hawaii's best for 9 years in a row, I promise you, this poke bowl is well worth the drive. I like spicy poke, Shoyu (mixed with soy sauce), and Hawaiian-style (mixed with seaweed and sea salt). Honestly, they're all good and if you can buy a bag of Hawaiian taro chips, the experience is even better. If you're heading to Hanalei Bay for the day, stop by Foodland to pick up a poke bowl for lunch on the way. 

Best Date Night Restaurant

Every time we visit Kauai, we always make reservations at The Plantation House by Gaylords. This is a great restaurant for date nights, family dinners, and special occasions. The dinner menu includes fresh ahi poke, lobster gnocchi, sake short ribs, and truffle potatoes. The cocktails are good, too! If you head over for lunch, don't miss the Koloa Rum Tasting Room which is also located on-site. 

Car Rental Advice

There's a severe rental car shortage in Hawaii due to low inventory and increased demand, so if you want wheels on your trip (you'll need them), I recommend that you book early. We rented from Avis on this trip and had a great experience. Our 4-door Jeep Sahara was so much fun to drive!

How to Plan Your Itinerary

Driving around Kauai takes time, especially during the summer months, so it's best to plan your day by choosing one main area to explore or dividing the day into morning and afternoon activities. Hanalei Bay is a full-day activity when you consider drive time and traffic revisions. Here are some of our favorite things to explore on Kauai that should absolutely be on your itinerary:

Hanalei Bay

• Beach Park & Pier (the most gorgeous beach with white sand and clear blue water) 
• Hanalei Shopping Center - Lots of great local shops and restaurants 
• Bubba's Burgers
• Plan a full day and take a picnic lunch to the beach. Rain showers and clouds generally pass quickly, so don't be worried if you see a few clouds in the sky. 

Princeville 

• Princeville Center is a great place to shop and dine
• Foodland has THE best poke bowls on the island
• There's a great toy store for kids on-site
• Keep an eye out for the Princeville Night Market

Poipu Beach

• Beach Park & Playground
• Sea Turtle Spotting
• Puka Dogs
• Baby Beach
• Brennecke's Beach Broiler
• Old Koloa Town (Stop by on your way to Poipu Beach)
• The Shops at Kukui'ula (Located near Poipu Beach and a great place to stop for dinner after a day at the beach. The center also has Long's Drugs so you can stock up on anything you forgot at home)

Waimea Canyon

• Great scenic drive when you need a break from the sun
• The canyon is a 14-mile stretch with panoramic views
• The road ends at Kokee State Park

Coconut Marketplace

• Located in Kapaa with easy parking and plenty of gift shops
• Don't miss Jojo's Shave Ice
• Great dining options including Chicken in a Barrel, Bobby V's, and Island Country Market
• You can also get beach rentals including sun umbrellas, snorkel gear, and more at Coconut Marketplace

Final Thoughts

If you're heading to Kauai, take a deep breath, enjoy the experience, and don't forget to pack your patience. The summer months are peak season for tourists and in addition to increased traffic on the roads, you'll also experience long wait times at restaurants if you don't have advance reservations. Kauai is experiencing the same labor shortages we are on the mainland, so please remember to be patient and kind. If you're staying at a hotel, don't forget to take out cash to tip your housekeepers. They are working overtime this summer and want to help ensure that your trip to paradise is an amazing one. 

Last but not least, please note that masks are mandatory indoors in Kauai. It's a state law and businesses are doing their best to keep everyone safe. You can view Hawaii's latest pre-travel testing requirements here.

Related Reading:

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Stylish Summer Travel Guide to SEA

 

5 Tips for Teaching Kids to Swim 

I Know A Place: Seattle Fashion Edition
 

The Stylish Summer Travel Guide to SEA

Seattle has now hit the 70% vaccinated mark and as a result, we're seeing a major boost in "vacci-cations", a.k.a. the post-vaccination vacation. Yes, that's officially a thing. For many people, it's been a while since they've flown in and out of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, now known simply as SEA. Over the past year, there have been renovations, new dining options added, new retail experiences, and even new ways to park. Here's your stylish guide to summer travel at SEA.

Parking 

SEA is now offering pre-paid parking in the airport's on-site parking garage. It's the closest, most convenient parking available, and if you pre-book, you'll get a discount. The airport has more than 12,000 parking spaces available for both short-term and long-term parking and let's be honest, after a long trip, it's so nice to be able to head straight to your car and get home quickly.

 
The process to pre-pay for parking is easy, you simply book online in advance and you'll receive an email with a QR code to scan on entry and exit.

Getting through Security 

As travel picks up again, so has the wait time at security checkpoints. Prior to the pandemic when regular travel was a routine part of our lives, we signed up for CLEAR and it was one of the best decisions we've ever made. Going through security is so easy now and we get to skip the long lines, which is critical when traveling with kids. Instead of using traditional ID documents, CLEAR uses your eyes and face to confirm your identity. You can start the enrollment online and then head to any airport CLEAR location with a valid government-issued ID to complete the sign-up process. You can use CLEAR at over 50+ airports, stadiums, and other venues nationwide. Get 2 months free by using my referral link to sign up for CLEAR.

For those that don't have CLEAR, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is also testing out a new pilot program called SEA Spot Saver, that allows passengers to reserve a specific time to go through security in an effort to streamline wait times. The program is available from 4 a.m. to noon daily through August 31st and is available for general security passengers. Reserve your spot here.

Staying Safe

Even if you're fully vaccinated, you still need to wear a mask that fully covers your nose and mouth at the airport and on the plane during your flight. To help keep passengers safe, SEA has also added 280 hand sanitizing stations conveniently located throughout the airport. I also recommend packing sanitizing wipes in your carry-on bag so that you can wipe down the tray tables, armrests, windows, and belt buckles at your seat when you get on board. 

Dining

You'll want to arrive early to the airport so that you can take advantage of the food scene prior to departure. At SEA, you'll find local favorites like Skillet, Poke to the Max, Beecher's, Lucky Louie, Lady Yum, and more. I'm a fan of the kale caesar at Skillet and the fish and chips at Lucky Louie, but honestly, you can't go wrong with the Pacific Northwest dining options at SEA. Dining options are limited in-flight due to COVID restrictions, so eat in advance, just in case.

Here are some places to try next time you're at the airport:

A Gates - Capitol Hill Food Fall - Highlights include Chowder Shack, Grand Central Bakery, Salt & Straw, and Caffe Ladro.


B Gates - Mi Casa Cantina - The menu includes freshly baked tortas, house-made burritos, guacamole, pico de gallo, and handcrafted cocktails.


C Gates - Beecher's Handmade Cheese - If you're in the mood for comfort food, their Mac & Cheese is the world's best. You'll also find artisan cheeses, fresh salads, and Caffe Vita espresso drinks.

Central Terminal - Lucky Louie Fish Shack - If you're craving PNW-inspired food, the Fish & Chips and  Creamy Clam Chowder are both personal favorites. 

D Gates - Poke to the Max - Hawaiian food at its finest including Poke Bowls, Loco Moco, and more. Don't miss the Spam Musubi, which also makes a great travel snack for your carry-on. 

North Satellite - Skillet - Modern American food with an approachable, diner vibe. Fun fact: Skillet has an all-day brunch menu. If you're looking for something healthy-ish, I highly recommend the kale caesar with chicken. 

South Satellite -  Dungeness Bay Seafood House - Oh yes, it's all things Dungeness, including crab cakes, crab bisque, clams, calamari, and more. Oh, and there's a full-service bar, too. 

For a sweet treat, check out the Seattle Chocolate store (near Gate C1) that stocks 100% non-GMO, small-batch chocolate truffle bars, jcoco caramels, and special occasion gifts.

Shopping

SEA has plenty of great options if you're shopping for gifts or simply need a little retail therapy prior to your flight. Don't miss Sacred Circle, the airport's only Native American-owned shop featuring handmade jewelry and wearable art from local artisans and inland tribes. You'll also want to check out Seattle Made, an entire shop dedicated to celebrating Seattle's unique cultural identity, and Fireworks, one of my favorite places to shop for gifts.

At SEA, you'll also find CHALO, a locally-owned gift and lifestyle shop featuring Seattle-inspired products like tote bags, coffee cups, zippered pouches, and more. The lead image of this post features a Seattle boarding pass tote bag from CHALO.

Here are some of the stores you can shop at SEA:

• Coach
• Ex Officio
• Fireworks
• MAC Cosmetics 
• Made in Washington 
• SUB POP
• Swarovski 
• Show Pony

Summer Reading
 

Shop local for all the books on your summer reading list at Elliot Bay Book Co. located in the C Concourse. On my last trip to the airport, I picked up a copy of Rebecca Minkoff's new book Fearless and finished the entire book during the flight. You can also stock up on magazines at the Hudson stores located throughout the airport. 

Final Tip

Pack your patience and have fun! For many of us, it's been a long time since we traveled and it comes as no surprise that we're all a little rusty. Be patient, pack snacks, and don't forget to stay hydrated. 

Additional resources:

SEA Airport Guide for Traveling with Kids

Keep up with my summer travel adventures on Instagram, @Sydlovesfashion. 

The Sydlovesfashion Guide to Suncadia

Summer is officially here and easy weekend getaways are my jam. Suncadia recently announced that they are now open for business and officially in Phase 3 of reopening. If you're looking for a fun place to escape quarantine, Suncadia is it! There's something magical about packing up the car and driving away from the city to get back into nature for a weekend of relaxation.

The 90-minute drive over the Cascades is beautiful and the skies open up giving way to gorgeous trees and serene sunshine. We first started going to Suncadia almost a decade ago when it was slow and sleepy, but since then, it's developed into a robust resort with multiple pools, parks, and vacation rentals. Suncadia is a great place for families to unwind, connect, and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. I consider myself somewhat of an aficionado when it comes to Suncadia, so here's my guide on how to do it right.

Where to Stay
We love the Lodge at Suncadia. There are plenty of options on-site including the inn, condos, and even vacation rentals, but if you really want to experience Suncadia at its finest, stay in the lodge. The rooms are spacious, including some units with kitchenettes, and I'm a big fan of being able to walk down to grab a coffee from Coal House Cafe in the morning. The beds are comfortable, the bathrooms are spacious, and if you book a river view, you can stargaze at night. The Lodge also has a pool (pictured above) with is open late and much quieter than the other pools on property. If you prefer more space, you can also rent a vacation home on-site or search places like VRBO for other on-property rental options. Please note, the only way to access the pools is if you book directly with Suncadia. We recently booked this rental through VRBO and loved our experience!

Where to Eat
There are a few restaurants on-site at Suncadia including Portals which serves a mix of American food and Pacific Northwest favorites. The Lodge burger is a trusty favorite and you can order it to-go from the bar if you prefer to enjoy the epic views from your room. If you're planning on dinner at Portals be sure to make reservations in advance as weekends can be busy. Our favorite place to dine at Suncadia is on-property at Swiftwater Cellars. Sit outside if you can snag a table and enjoy sweeping mountain views while you sample flights of wine. If you head into Cle Elum there are a variety of restaurant options available. We like Beau's Pizza and Pasta and El Caporal Mexican Restaurant.

What to Do
Suncadia is all about relaxation. Take a long walk or bike ride around the property. We spend a lot of time at Dawson Park when we visit because my kids love to run around in the grass, scooter on the path, and take our dog to the fully-fenced dog park. There are also a variety of hiking trails on the property and you can easily rent bikes and boats from the Fitness Center. If you have time, I highly recommend booking a treatment at the Glade Spring Spa. They are offering a limited menu due to COVID which includes massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures.

Kittitas County, where Suncadia is located, recently received approval to advance to Phase 3 of the state's reopening plan. This means that public pools can reopen, restaurants can increase capacity to 75% and people can gather in groups of up to 50. You'll still need to wear your mask while out in public (indoors and outdoors) and maintain social distancing when you can. We're all in this together and we can still have a great summer if we all play it safe.

3 Easy Seattle summer getaways

I love living the city life, but when Friday rolls around I'm ready to explore wide-open spaces. Summer is the perfect time to get out and experience all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer. The skies are blue, the wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is just right. Here are my favorite Seattle summer getaways that are fun, easy, and totally worthy of adding to your list.

Summer Getaway #1: Bellingham, WA
Located just 90-minutes north of Seattle, Bellingham is a fun and easy getaway that is absolutely gorgeous during the summer months. On our last trip, my family and I stayed at Hotel Bellwether which overlooks Bellingham Bay, and had a fabulous time! The rooms were spacious, the views were stunning, and there's a bike path that leads you straight to Zuanich Point Park. Our Bellingham trips usually involve stopping for a bite at Bob's Burgers, visiting the historic Fairhaven District for coffee and shopping, and letting the kids run around in the splash pad at Fairhaven Park.

Shop
Village Books
1200 11th St.
Bellingham, WA 98225

Eat
Anthony's Hearthfire Grill
7 Bellwether Way
Bellingham, WA 98225

Stay
Hotel Bellwether
1 Bellwether Way
Bellingham, WA 98225

Summer Getaway #2: Cle Elum, WA
If you prefer to head east over the mountains where the sunshine is more consistent, Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum is a great choice. It's also 90-minutes from the city by car if you go east on Interstate 90. The resort has two swimming pools, an amazing spa, wine tasting experiences, golf, bike rentals, complimentary nightly smores, and more.

I've experienced Suncadia on both girls getaways (shown above) and family trips, and both have been amazing. When I'm with the girls I always make time for the spa, but when I'm with family I usually rent bikes, take a dip in the pool, head to one of the on-property playgrounds, and then unwind over dinner with a nice glass of Swiftwater Cellars wine. Don't forget to check the event calendar before your trip to find out what on-site events are happening during your stay. They usually have LIVE music in the lodge on Saturday nights.

Shop
Coal House Caffe
The gift shop at Suncadia has snacks, gifts, smores kits, sunscreen, and anything else you might need on your trip, including wine. They also make a great cup of coffee when you need a caffeine fix.

Eat
Swiftwater Cellars
201 Rope Rider Dr.
Cle Elum, WA 98922

Stay
Suncadia
3600 Suncadia Trail
Cle Elum, WA 98922

Summer Getaway #3: Vancouver, B.C.
Most Seattleites agree -we don't get to Vancouver B.C. nearly as often as we should, and that's a shame because it's such a beautiful city! Our dollar goes further in Canada which is reason enough to get your passport in order and head North for a long weekend. We always stay in downtown Vancouver so that we can walk to shopping on Robson Street.  We also like being close to Gastown because it has a plethora of dining options and it's home to Noir Lash Lounge and Blo.

Shop
Holt Renfrew
737 Dunsmuir St.
Vancouver, BC, Canada

Note: Holt Renfrew is a Canadian department store that specializes in luxury goods, comparable to a Nordstrom or Saks Fifth Avenue in the USA. It's owned by the Selfridges Group (my favorite department store in London) and was founded in 1837.


Eat
Cactus Club Cafe
1136 Robson St.
Vancouver, BC

Stay
Hotel LeSoleil
567 Hornby St.
Vancouver, BC, Canada

London Diaries: Day Five

Hello London day five! Even this far into the trip I'm still so excited when I wake up every morning just to be here and explore everything the city has to offer. It's fun seeing what's changed since our last trip and discovering what's new. At this point, our family has seen most of the touristy stuff which means we have more time to indulge in the places we love most. <3 p="" vacationgoals="">

Today we started at Kensington Crepes for an easy brunch before heading across the street to the Science Museum. The kids need a break from shopping and I want an excuse to check out the V&A museum which is located next door. The good news is that everything in South Kensington is walkable so it's easy to visit multiple museums in a single morning. Plus, admission it's a budget-friendly way to spend the day. (Note: Admission to museums is free but most of the bigger exhibits require an admission fee.)

Today the Science Museum is showcasing a Robot exhibit that is equal parts cool and creepy. The exhibit includes robots that talk and respond to stimulus, as well as a baby (shown above) that blinks, breathes, and has real hair. It will definitely make you do a double-take. The exhibit is thought-provoking to say the least. It's an exploration of the last 500 years of robots and features over 100 robots on display.

Next, we headed to the Victoria & Albert Museum to check out Undressed, A Brief History of Underwear. Yep, we totally went from robots to racy underwear. The exhibit explores the intimate relationship between underwear and fashion, and its role in molding the body into whatever the fashion ideal is at the time. Although the recent waist-training craze via the Kardashians has seemed to pass, corsets have played a major role for centuries as seen in the garments on display. The exhibit features corsets that were made for women to wear during pregnancy and even post-partum when women were nursing. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that the corset was invented by a man. What's interesting is to peruse the collection of underwear on display and visually see how underwear and body ideals physically take shape in the form of undergarments. Today we view underwear as outerwear and design it to not only be functional but to be admired by others. (Note: This exhibit ends on Sunday, March 12th.)

The V&A has an amazing gift shop that's worth checking out when you visit. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs and fashion books. They also have a beautiful cafe and outdoor courtyard with a fountain that is fun for kids to splash around in during the summer months.

For lunch, we walked over to Honest Burger because my husband can only live so long without a good old American burger. We used to fawn over Byron Burger when visiting London, but I have to say, after this last trip, Honest Burgers is my new favorite. They use high-quality meat (35-day dry aged British chuck steak) and serve fries with rosemary seasoning salt. Even the kids liked it. I got my burger without a bun and they didn't even blink. Gotta love a place that embraces a low-carb lifestyle. I'm a fan.

After lunch we head back to the hotel to recoop and relax. The kids always enjoy a little break and

After a day at the museums, it's off to Sloane Square in Chelsea for date night. Jeff and I try to sneak away at least once or twice on the trip to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city sans kids. We book a nanny through a local agency and sneak out for a night on the town. Sloane Square is a great place to shop and dine. For my daughter's first birthday we took her to Richard Ward Salon in Sloane Square to get her ears pierced. I have happy memories here. For dinner, we decided to check out Polpo, which serves beautiful food and most importantly, Italian wine.

London is a beautiful city to explore and each neighborhood has its own charm. One mistake we made when we first visited was not taking the time to plot out the places we wanted to see so that we can group them by neighborhoods and make the most of our trip. Instead, we spent a lot of extra time and money zig-zagging all over the city. Don't do that. It's expensive and inefficient. By grouping the places you want to see by neighborhood you'll get to experience so much more. 

// The It List //

- Shop -

The V&A gift shop

Zara 

- Eat -

Kensington Crepes

Polpo

Honest Burger 

- Visit -

Science Museum

Victoria & Albert Museum

Sloan Square

- Beauty - 

Richard Ward Salon

London Diaries: Day Four

London is an endless adventure. Today we decided it was time to get out of South Kensington and into a different part of the city so we rode the tube to Shoreditch, a neighborhood about 40-minutes outside of the city. The vibe is very "up and coming" and perhaps a bit gritty. depending on who you ask. The first time I came to Shoreditch a few years ago I hated it and thought it was dirty, but even I've come around. Little boutiques and coffee shops have started popping up, cafes have opened their doors, and the Ace Hotel has arrived.

To get outside the city into Shoreditch we opted for the tube because it's faster and cheaper than a Black cab. We learned our lesson the hard way on previous trips hopping into cabs and shelling out major cash for long journies, so we mapped it out and decided to take the underground from Gloucester to Liverpool street. It was a pretty quick ride and we were blissfully unaffected by the tube strike on the central line. We were greeted in Shoreditch with wind and rain so we decided to head straight to the hotel for check-in.

The Ace Hotel is a departure from the usual hotels we normally stay at in London. It has a unique charm all its own complete with hipsters in the lobby drinking coffee and co-working the day away, plus an in-room record player, 24-hour room service, and bathroom amenities like shampoo and conditioner from Rudy's Barber Shop. Our room was clean, spacious, and safely located on the fifth floor, out of sound reach from the DJ in the lobby.

We had dinner at Hoi Polloi, the hotel restaurant founded by Ace in partnership with chefs Pablo Flack and David Waddington. The concept is "English modernist" with a focus on seasonal produce and forward-thinking. The breads on the menu were vegan, the wine organic, you get the vibe. We had some great cocktails and conversations while enjoying the delicious food.

After dinner, we headed over to Boxpark, a pop-up mall featuring a mix of global boutiques and eateries. The Boxpark is very conceptual and definitely a must-visit destination when you're in London. You'll find collabs like Idris Elba for Superdry, vintage fashion at Nordic Poetry, and souvenirs at The Gift Box. If you work up an appetite head upstairs for a full food court of restaurants or for a sweet treat head down to street level for an epic milkshake at Soft Serve Society. Boxpark could literally be your agenda for a full night out. The energy is contagious and the stores are fun to shop and explore.

The next morning we headed across the street to Forage &Co. for brunch. Fried eggs with avocado and chimichurri for the win. On our trip we found that breakfast was the perfect time to plan our day and strategize our next adventure. Forage & Co. also doubles as a co-working space so if the lobby of the Ace kills your vibe you can always head across the street to check emails and get some work done. After our leisurely brunch, we walked through the shops in the neighborhood including several cool menswear boutiques and then checked out of the hotel before heading back to South Kensington via the tube. Overall, our Shoreditch sleepover was a success. Will we be back? Definitely.

// The It List // 

- Shop - 

The Boxpark
(Shoreditch)

- Eat - 

Hoi Polloi - Inside the Ace Hotel London/Shoreditch

The BoxPark 

Soft Serve Society

Forage & Co.

- Stay - 

The Ace Hotel (Shoreditch) 

London Diaries: Day Three

Three days in and the only way to start the day is with a blowout. Sacrificing valuable suitcase space to pack a hair dryer is out of the question, so I head to Hershesons Blow Dry Bar for a blowout before starting the day. Located in the basement of Topshop at Oxford Circus, Hershesons is your best bet for a super efficient, quality blowout that will last at least two days, possibly three with liberal use of dry shampoo. I usually visit at least twice during my trips to London and I always walk out looking and feeling like a million bucks. And let's face it, the convenience of not having to do your hair while on vacation is priceless.

After my hair appointment, I hit the shops on Oxfords street including Miss Selfridge, Mango, Pull & Bear, Zara, River Island, and Next. The best part about shopping in the UK is the sizing. You can seriously find everything from petite to plus size, maternity clothes that don't suck, tall sizes in longer lengths, and a full array of cool kids clothes.

The three main fashion trends for women found in all the shops on the high street are the leather jacket, the concert tee, and florals with dark grounds, which are normally reserved for fall/winter. We're also still seeing the cut-out trend take on multiple forms this season including sweaters, t-shirts, and dresses. The sheer overlay trend is also going strong and morphs into flowy tops, skirts, and even footwear (as shown above).

If you have kids or want to shop for them while you're in London, don't miss Hamleys. Founder William Hamley opened his first store in 1760 and added a second shop on Regent street in 1881. The store was bombed five times during World War II and is still going strong featuring five floors of toys and games for children.

After hitting the high street it's a must that you visit Liberty of London. The store was originally opened in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty and is well-known for its floral prints. The store is an experience in itself and has a full Manolo Blahnik wall of shoes, a fabulous selection of printed silk scarves, a Le Labo perfume counter, a Nike lab, a gorgeous assortment of Needle and Thread dresses, plus a fabulous flower shop that looks beautiful and smells delightful.

Later that night Jeff and I snuck away for a date night in the city and headed to St. Christopher's Place, which is a little area off Oxford street with shops and restaurants. We ended up at a restaurant called Cocochan for sushi and dim sum. The ambiance was great, the food was delicious, and the service was excellent. We will definitely be back.

We've packed in a lot to our first few days in London and one thing is certain, my feet and legs are killing me. If you're heading to London you should know that you're going to walk miles every day. yes, that was miles with an "s" at the end. Despite getting around in a black cab of taking the tube, there will inevitably be walking involved so get ready for sore legs at the end of the day. I cope by stretching and soaking my legs in a salt bath when possible, it should be noted that I have not surrendered to wearing flats. Yet.

If you've forgotten something at home, don't worry. You can get anything your little heart desires in London.

If you forgot to pack your beauty products:

• Look for a Superdrug or Boots store. These chain stores are similar to Bartell's or Walgreens and have everything from beauty products to pharmacy items. Some stores even carry snacks like fruit packs and groceries. You can also find adapters here if you forgot a converter at home and need to charge your electronics. 

If you need baby items:

• Look for a Mothercare store on Oxford street. They carry everything from clothing to baby items like bath tubs, strollers, and high chairs. You can also get diapers, wipes, and bottles here. 

If you need to stock your mini fridge at the hotel:

• Waitrose - For grocery items like milk, juice, fresh fruits and vegetables, and breakfast items for the hotel. They also have a great assortment of manages if you need to stock up. 

• Tesco - Here in the UK Tesco isn't a gas station, it's a convenience store. You'll find chips, snacks, desserts including donuts from Krispy Kreme, and wine. 

// The It List // 

- Shop - 

Liberty of London

St. Christopher's Place

Oxford Street shopping

Selfridges

Hamley's

- Beauty - 

Hershesons Blow Dry Bar 

(Check out these tips on how to make your blowout last longer)

Superdrug

Boots

- Food - 

Waitrose 

Paul 

Tesco 

Cocochan

- Baby - 

Waitrose

Mothercare