Aritzia is a Canadian fashion brand based out of Vancouver, CA. They have stores across the U.S. and Canada as well as a website that ships internationally. With a better/contemporary price range, Aritzia maintains a trendy high-fashion image without breaking the bank. They currently carry most major categories of apparel, such as tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, accessories and shoes. The one thing missing? Swimwear. Now, I don't like to brag but I think I'm a bit of an expert on this subject. I did an entire project analyzing Aritzia and the business opportunity that would come from a swimwear line for them. I spent a whole semester researching swimwear trends and finding those that were in line with Aritzia's aesthetic and price range, and planning out an entire purchase order for the line. Based on my research, I feel that a swimwear line would appeal to Aritzia's target customers and be very successful. The United States swimwear market is the largest swimwear market in the world with an annual revenue of $46.2 billion in 2018, and is projected to grow through 2025, according to Statista. The best way to market this line would be through a social media campaign with travel and fashion influencers. By seeing the swimsuits on very fashion-forward people in beautiful destinations, the line will be inherently more appealing to prospective customers. Social media marketing is one of the most efficient marketing techniques today for millennial age groups. People look up to these kind of influencers and will buy just about anything they promote, especially if they're promoting it along with their glamorous lifestyle. I truly think Aritzia could put out a very trendy, cute, and profitable swimsuit line. Their major competitors, Reformation and Zara, both have their own swimsuit lines. This is an opportunity for growth that they are missing out on. Xoxo,
Amanda If you read this title and thought to yourself, "What in the world is Cloudfoam?," you are not alone. Cloudfoam is Adidas' version of a memory foam, that conforms to the shape of your foot and keeps it comfortable whilst walking, running, skipping or whatever you do. They have an entire line of shoes with this Cloudfoam stuff, and I'm here to tell you that it's worth your money.
Last year, before I went off to Italy for the semester, I bought a pair of Adidas Cloudfoam sneakers. I needed a neutral pair of shoes to wear with outfits since I couldn't bring a lot, and I figured that memory foam could be nice. After four months of trekking through multiple different cities (I'm talking 30,000 steps a day on some occasions), my feet never hurt when I got back to my hostels/Airbnbs. The support on these shoes is incredible. I'm not the only one who thinks so, either. The reviews on Adidas' website seem to agree with me. With a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5, and 95% of customers saying they'd recommend the product, its easy to see that these are high quality shoes. If you've got some sort of trip coming up, or maybe you just walk a lot of places, you can't go wrong with the Cloudfoam shoes. There's an array of styles to choose from, so anyone can find a pair to their liking. I can guarantee one thing, and that is that your feet will never want to go back to regular shoes after walking in these. Xoxo, Amanda When most people think of fashion bloggers, they think of the super-glam model-like bloggers from New York or Los Angeles. What those people don't realize is that there is a very big community of fashion bloggers in college, living in small towns all across the U.S. Of course, I belong to the latter group. I'm in my final year of fashion school, in the small town of Kent, Ohio. There's a plethora of characteristics that set bloggers like me apart from the typical ones you'd think of. I think there is a stronger sense of community among small-town college bloggers; we support each other and help each other out. I've received tips on how to get more engagement, lots of positive comments, and even fellow bloggers wanting to meet up to discuss blogging strategies over coffee. One of my favorite collaborative blogging efforts is the Instagram account, @girlaboutohio. This account reposts Instagram photos from bloggers all over Ohio, showcasing the most "Instagram-able" and fun places to visit in the state. With a montage of local fashion and travel bloggers covering its whole feed, Girl About Ohio is the perfect representation of what your typical blogger is. The account has created a community amongst Ohio bloggers, where everyone is supported and uplifted. If you are also a fellow Ohio blogger, I highly recommend checking them out. Who knows, you might end up on their feed one day!
Xoxo, Amanda When I was studying abroad in Florence, Italy, I was lucky enough to visit the famous Gucci Garden not only once, but twice. The Gucci Garden is a type of museum/archive that was thought up by the creative director of Gucci, Alessandro Michele. It is truly his vision and dreams come to life. The Gucci brand was founded in Florence, which is why the museum was placed in the Renaissance city. After visiting, I gained a new respect for the brand and for Michele. The pure creativity that goes into each and every piece is astounding. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised to see Michele's undermined talent exuding from every look that walked down the runway this past week in Milan for Gucci's Autumn/Winter 2020 show. The show was filled with lace and tulle and other incredibly delicate and feminine design elements, while also appearing quite gothic and theatrical. It was like Pride and Prejudice meets Hot Topic, in a positive way. I've always admired Michele's work, and there's a reason he's so successful in the industry. A common motif in the show was headwear, with dainty Blair Waldorf-esque headbands and large, protruding top hats a la Abraham Lincoln.
Overall, I truly enjoyed the show. It evoked such a Florentine essence that for a moment I forgot I was back in America (yes, I'm sad). Michele did a fantastic job with this line and it seems as if most people agree. Xoxo, Amanda Florence is a city that has been a shining icon since the Renaissance. Classic books and movies have been set in Florence, and countless artists and designers made a living there. For those who didn't know, the city was made rich by the Medici family. Their fortune contributed greatly to the beauty and history of Florence, through places like the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace. Florence has a plethora of incredible landmarks, as well as some of the most incredible Italian food that I came to know and love during my four months there. As Florence is a popular destination for studying abroad and just vacationing in general, I thought I'd make a guide to my favorite spots in the city to share with newcomers. CIBI (FOOD)Name: MySugar Gelato What is it? My #1 gelato place in Florence. I tried a lot of gelato while in Italy (who can blame me?) and I just kept coming back to this place. My Tip: My favorite flavors were dark chocolate and rose blossom, although the salted caramel is great as well. WARNING: it is cash only, so make sure you have some euros on you! Name: Pino's What is it? The best, most welcoming panino shop. I had a hard time finding good panino shops as a vegetarian because many didn't have good options without meat. Pino's has an entire vegetarian section of the menu, and you can even build your own panino. The owner, Pino is so sweet and has drawn in students from all over with his sandwiches. They even have school flags all over the shop. My Tip: My favorite sandwich is the Quattro Formaggio (four cheese) panino with truffle sauce. Name: Gustapizza What is it? An incredible pizzeria that will make your pizza heart-shaped by request. My Tip: Get it to-go and bring your pizza down to the Arno to sit riverside and enjoy! Name: Trattoria ZaZa What is it? A traditional Italian restaurant (trattoria) with an extensive wine list and incredible pasta. My Tip: The truffle ravioli is to die for. Also, I recommend making a reservation online as it gets busy! Name: SimBIOsi What is it? Part pizzeria, part trattoria, part bar, part coffee shop. My Tip: This truffle, mushroom, mozzarella and burrata pizza was EVERYTHING. Name: Queen's Chips What is it? A Dutch sidewalk shop that serves up traditional Dutch fries in cones covered in your choice of sauce. My Tip: This place was a favorite of my classmates as it was right down the street from school and super cheap and convenient. I loved the cheese sauce! Name: Le Vespe Cafe What is it? The cutest brunch place. My Tip: This is a great spot meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. If you're looking for a more filling breakfast, this is the place to go as Italians don't really do much more than a pastry and a cappuccino on the regular. Name: Rosalia Gourmet Salad What is it? a build-your-own salad place inspired by Sweetgreen. My Tip: When you're tired of carbs, come here. Name: Rooster Cafe What is it? another fantastic brunch/lunch spot. My Tip: Get the french fries with your order because the sauce that they come with is otherworldly. Name: Vecchio Forno What is it? the cutest little bakery with the sweetest employees. My Tip: Italians are known for having sweet croissants, or cornetto, and the white chocolate ones here are soooooo good. CAFFE (COFFEE)Name: Shake Cafe What is it? A more modern cafe and restaurant with a great vibe. My Tip: This place has the only good iced coffee I managed to find in Italy, as Italians don't do iced coffee. Also, do yourself a favor and try their vegan banana bread. I still think about it daily. Name: La Menagere What is it? a cafe/bar/flower shop/music venue with ethereal decor. My Tip: The frozen cappuccino!!!!!! That is all. Also, this is the spot for artsy Instagram pictures. Name: Ditta Artiginale What is it? a very modern artisanal coffee shop. My Tip: They serve a lot of fantastic pastries that I highly recommend! Name: Caffe Rosano What is it? a sweet little cafe with the nicest owner ever My Tip: The XL cappuccino is literally the size of a bowl of soup and is perfect for a mid-day pick me up. APERITIVO (DRINKS)Name: The Red Garter What is it? a sports bar with food, game viewing, a dance floor, and best of all: KARAOKE. My Tip: Don't be afraid to get up on stage and take your turn. This spot is mostly young people with a combo of American students as well as Italians. Name: Rasputin What is it? a hidden speakeasy with a 1920's Russian atmosphere. My Tip: You'll have to ask me for the location if you want to go. Can't just give away the secret! ;) Name: Bar Nabucco What is it? an aperitivo spot that has nightly live musicians. My Tip: Go at aperitivo time, usually after 7, to get a house cocktail for 10 euros and unlimited access to the food buffet. It's totally worth it. Name: Il Margaritaio What is it? A Mexican-themed margarita bar. My Tip: If you go during happy hour the margaritas are only 4 euros and 50 cents and they're ENORMOUS. Name: Lion's Fountain What is it? a student bar that's filled with college merchandise and lots of Americans. My Tip: For students abroad, this is the perfect spot to meet fellow Americans. They offer a unique "school shot" for pretty much every school in the US for only 2 euros. VISTE (SIGHTS)Name: the Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) What is it? Florence's main cathedral, the 3rd largest catholic cathedral in the world. My Tip: If you're just visiting the inside of the cathedral, you can wait in line outside but get there early. To climb to the top of the dome, you must make a reservation. You can also purchase tickets to visit the baptistry and the bell tower, which I highly recommend. Name: San Lorenzo / the Medici Chapels What is it? the restored chapels of the Medici family filled with tombs, historical artifacts, and artworks by Michelangelo. My Tip: If you really want to learn more about the Medici family, this is the most underrated place in Florence. Name: Basilica of Santa Croce What is it? a beautiful basilica in one of the most hip neighborhoods in Florence. My Tip: check out the statue of Dante Alighieri next to it! Also, Michelangelo and Galileo Galilei are both buried here. Name: Basilica of Santa Maria Novella What is it? another basilica in sort of a hidden spot in Florence My Tip: sit out in the piazza in front of the basilica on a nice day as it's not usually as crowded with tourists. Name: Piazza della Signoria What is it? a square that contains the Palazzo Vecchio, the newly renovated Neptune fountain, and tons of restaurants. My Tip: If you're in Florence during peak season, come here early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds and tour groups. Name: Costume Gallery at Palazzo Pitti What is it? a luxurious costume gallery in the former palace of the Medici family. My Tip: If you're into fashion, this is a great place to visit. They have seasonal exhibits so make sure to look into it online! Name: Gucci Garden What is it? Gucci creative director Alessandro Michele's vision come to life as a museum of the Florence-based design house. My Tip: students get free entry so make sure to bring a student ID! Name: Piazzale Michelangelo What is it? a viewpoint of all of Florence. My Tip: there are a lot of stairs, so if you are not able to climb definitely take a bus! Also, I highly recommend going right before sunset and bringing a bottle of wine. Name: Boboli Gardens What is it? an expansive collection of gardens behind the Palazzo Pitti created by the Medici family. My Tip: This place can easily rival the gardens of Versailles. Plan to spend a good amount of time here and maybe even bring a picnic. There is an entry fee but it's so worth it! Name: Bardini Gardens What is it? another gorgeous and decadent garden that overlooks the city. My Tip: There is an entry fee here as well but again it's worth it! If you are in Florence in April when the wisterias are blooming, you must check out the tunnel full of them. Name: The Uffizi Gallery What is it? one of the most renowned art museums in the world, donated to the city of Florence by the last living Medici, Anna Maria Luisa. My Tip: The sculpture galleries are beautiful. Don't miss "The Birth of Venus" by Botticelli! Name: Galleria dell'Accademia What is it? an art gallery containing Michelangelo's statue of David. My Tip: I wouldn't account for a lot of time here, as the main attraction is David. Name: Mercato Centrale What is it? a market with produce and local product stands downstairs and a food court upstairs. My Tip: Get some arancini from the stand in the food court. Definitely pick up wine and other delicacies here instead of at a tourist shop! Name: Piazza della Repubblica What is it? a square that always has performers and artists and plenty of shops and restaurants. My Tip: The carousel is actually cheap and is pretty fun, even for adults. Name: Ponte Vecchio What is it? an old bridge containing jewelry shops all the way across My Tip: if the bridge is crowded, hold your bags close by! This is an easy spot for pickpockets. Name: Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio What is it? a food market and flea market in one My Tip: pick up some cute accessories and decor here! Name: Biblioteca delle Oblate What is it? an old convent-turned-library that has a cafe on the rooftop. My Tip: For a free view of the Duomo and a great place to study, come here! Name: Piazza dei Compi What is it? a square with some green area, shops, and restaurants My Tip: If you go in the afternoon, check out the cute little bookstand! Name: Piazza di Santo Spirito What is it? the square outside of the Basilica of Santo Spirito My Tip: if it's open, go inside the basilica! On Sundays there are flea markets in this square that have so many amazing vendors. Name: Giardino Delle Rose (The Rose Garden) What is it? a rose garden on the way up to Piazzale Michelangelo. My Tip: This is the best picnic spot with a view! There are so many different roses all around and you can see the Duomo! NEGOZI (SHOPS)Name: LuisaViaRoma What is it? a designer concept store that's perfect for window shopping. My Tip: Check out the rooftop cafe! Name: Aquaflor Firenze What is it? an artisanal perfumery. My Tip: You can create your own custom perfume in a workshop, or purchase one of their luxurious bestsellers. Name: C. Bio What is it? sort of like the Italian version of Whole Foods. My Tip: Purchase some snacks and head up to their fantastic rooftop garden. It's the perfect escape from the city. Name: Melrose Vintage What is it? one of the best vintage shops in Florence. My Tip: Florence has a plethora of vintage shops but this one is by far the best and biggest. Name: Paperback Exchange What is it? an English bookstore. My Tip: Stop here for Italian cookbooks in English! Name: Fratelli Peruzzi What is it? a cameo jewelry store on the Ponte Vecchio My Tip: Pick up some gorgeous cameo pieces made with seashell at this shop for a perfect souvenir. Name: Farmacia Santa Maria Novella What is it? the oldest pharmacy in all of Italy, selling skincare, perfume, and even alcohol. My Tip: There's a reason why they've been in business for so long. The store is decorated very luxuriously and their products match that. They can be quite pricey but they're definitely worth it. With that, I leave you to explore the magic of the city of Florence and discover some of its best hidden gems. Always feel free to reach out to me for tips on traveling abroad or Italy in general.
Grazie mille, Amanda FOODSweetgreen Location: Multiple Locations What it is: one of the most delicious salad places ever Hot Tip: the Kale Caesar is to die for, except I substitute kale for mixed greens and get it without chicken. 2 Bros Pizza Location: Multiple Locations What it is: $1 slices!!!!! Hot Tip: two cheese slices and a drink for $2.75...you can't beat it. Pret A Manger Location: Multiple Locations What it is: a bakery and cafe with pre-made food prepared daily and ready to be eaten right away Hot Tip: there's a location around almost every corner and it's one of the quickest and easiest bites you can get. By Chloe Location: Multiple Locations What it is: a vegan cafe with the most Instagrammable AND delicious food Hot Tip: my favorite location is the one on Bleecker St. (Don't forget to try their air baked fries with the beet ketchup. You won't regret it). Laduree Tea Room Location: 398 W Broadway (SoHo) What it is: a Parisian patisserie with brunch, tea, and pastries Hot Tip: if you go here during the warmer months, make sure to sit in the outdoor tea garden and enjoy some macarons! Brooklyn Bagel and Coffee Company Location: Multiple Locations What it is: kettle-boiled bagels Hot Tip: try an everything bagel with scallion cream cheese. Dig Inn Location: Multiple Locations What it is: healthy dishes made with clean ingredients Hot Tip: get a bowl with your choice of grain, two of their delectable side dishes, and a protein. Levain Bakery Location: 167 W 74th St (Upper West Side) What it is: a quaint (but extremely popular) bakery with cookies that are to die for Hot Tip: you've probably seen pictures of the chocolate chip walnut cookie all over Instagram, and there's a reason for it. You MUST try it. Magnolia Bakery Location: Multiple Locations What it is: a bakery made famous by Sex And The City Hot Tip: although their cupcakes and cakes are fantastic, you can't leave without trying their notorious banana pudding. SHOPPINGGlossier Showroom Location: 123 Lafayette St (SoHo) What it is: the flagship store for the skincare and makeup brand, Glossier Hot Tip: if possible, go on a weekday. If not, plan to give yourself a good amount of time because there may be a line to get in. Make sure you take a picture with the giant Boy Brow statues and test out all the products your heart desires. Albertine Books in French and English Location: 972 5th Avenue (Upper East Side) What it is: a gorgeous French bookstore Hot Tip: the second floor has an astrological mural on the ceiling and it's truly stunning. Westfield World Trade Center Location: 185 Greenwich St (Financial District) What it is: a shopping center in the Oculus Hot Tip: there's almost always some sort of interesting pop-up shop happening in the middle of the shopping center, so make sure to stop by if you're at the World Trade Center / 9/11 Memorial. Artist & Fleas Location: Multiple Locations What it is: a flea market made up of individual booths selling handmade jewelry, clothing, home decor, and vintage items Hot Tip: come here for souvenirs that aren't like the cheap, typical souvenirs you'd get from res in Times Square. And Other Stories Location: Multiple Locations What it is: a moderately priced clothing store with a chic European flair Hot Tip: if the clothing pieces aren't in your preferred price range, there's always a sale rack with some hidden treasures ;) L'Appartement Sezane Location: 254 Elizabeth St (NoLita) What it is: a French clothing boutique Hot Tip: they change up their front window decor for each season and pretty much every blogger and influencer gets their picture here. Don't forget to go inside and check out all of the cute pieces they have for sale as well! EXPERIENCESPier 17 Location: 89 South St (Seaport District) What it is: a rooftop concert venue Hot Tip: if you're not in town during rooftop season, this venue turns into an ice rink with a bar during the winter. Chelsea Market Location: 75 9th Avenue (Chelsea) What it is: an indoor food market Hot Tip: it may be difficult to find somewhere to sit, so grab a bite that's easy to eat while you walk. Washington Square Park Location: Corner of MacDougal St and W 4th St What it is: a park in Greenwich Village filled with musicians, artists, and lots of dogs Hot Tip: keep your eye out for different performers such as the man who brings a grand piano all the way out to the park to play for an audience. Citipups Location: Multiple Locations What it is: a puppy store that lets you sit and play with the puppies Hot Tip: this store does not support puppy mills and they treat their dogs with care, so you won't feel bad about supporting this establishment. Eataly Location: Flatiron and World Trade Center What it is: an Italian food market Hot Tip: if you want something quick to eat, you can grab pizza, gelato, coffee and more from one of the stands within the market. There is also a rooftop sit down restaurant at the Flatiron location! Union Square Location: Corner of Broadway and E 17th St What it is: a park, a shopping area, and a holiday market Hot Tip: grab some falafel from a cart and set up a picnic in the park next to the chess players. The High Line Location: Entrances along 10th Ave between Gansevoort St and W 34th St What it is: a park installed on an old above-ground railroad Hot Tip: take time to walk the entirety of the park. There are food vendors, art installations, and views the whole way. The New York Public Library Location: 476 5th Ave (Midtown) What it is: a library, shocking! Hot Tip: The Rose Main Reading Room is one of the most beautiful rooms I've ever been in, so try to stop in here as you wander through the historical building. The Rooftop at the Met Location: 1000 5th Ave (Upper East Side) What it is: a rooftop garden with a bar on top of the Metropolitan Museum of Art Hot Tip: 360 views of Central Park? You truly cannot beat it. Living in New York for the semester was an incredible experience that allowed me to discover a plethora of unique and cool spots around the city and I'm incredibly grateful. The past four months helped me to confirm that New York is where I'm meant to be and I cannot wait to move back for good after I graduate. On that note, I'm always welcome to hosting visitors, giving tips, and talking about my experiences with my friends and family, so don't hesitate to contact me. Xoxo, Amanda California. Cali. SoCal/NorCal. It's the state that makes all of us Midwesterners daydream about the beaches, the palm trees, and the endless amounts of national parks and natural wonders. When we think California, our brains tend to go straight to the thought of Los Angeles. Lucky for me, I got to experience the magic that is the City of Angels, as well as its less-crowded, more temperate southern neighbor of San Diego. Oh yeah, and the infamous Disneyland was on the itinerary as well. 'Twas a trip for the books. Yes, I did hop off the plane at LAX. I had my dream with me, but it was a little too warm for a cardigan. Beverly Hills. Hundreds of songs have been written about this luxury neighborhood of Los Angeles. Every celebrity has a place here, and rich tourists come to the legendary Rodeo Drive to splurge. For a fashion lover like me, this is heaven. I was surrounded on all sides by high street stores like Chanel, Dior, YSL, and Prada. I also was fulfilled not just as a fashion lover, but as a foodie. My favorite authentic French bakery chain, Ladurée, provided me with the best macaron I've ever tasted. Lunch at Il Pastiao hit the spot after walking around Rodeo Drive all morning. My recommendation: the spinach ravioli. It was to die for. My favorite thing about LA is how almost every restaurant has outdoor seating to accommodate for those who want to bring a furry friend with them. Whilst eating some of the most delicious Italian food, my cousin's 7 pound Maltese, Bentley, was able to just roam around under the table. Dogs + food = my happy place. If you've ever watched a video from a young Youtuber that lives in LA, you've definitely heard of The Grove. If you haven't, it's an outdoor shopping center filled with the hippest and trendiest stores and restaurants. My favorite place here? Sprinkles Cupcakes. I've had Sprinkles in New York City and in Nashville, so I knew I had to go again in Los Angeles. Thought this location didn't have a cupcake ATM (if you've never seen one please look it up, they're awesome), I was still satisfied with the gourmet cupcakes covered in delicious sprinkles. For my time in LA, I stayed at the Springhill Suites in Burbank. Just north of downtown LA, this newly renovated hotel fit my aesthetic perfectly. Paintings and coffee table books of old Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn adorned the lobby, which also featured a chandelier and a spiral staircase. Needless to say, I felt like I should be on my way to the red carpet every time I left my room. I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to meet up with some friends (two from LA, one visiting from Denver) for dinner at a delicious sushi place called Crazy Rock'N Sushi. It was so amazing being able to hang out with these lovely ladies. So this is a shoutout to Tay, Caitlin, and Gaby. Thanks for putting up with me and my weirdness. A must-do when in Los Angeles: the Warner Brothers studio tour. If you're a fan of Pretty Little Liars, Full House, Friends, Gilmore Girls, Ellen, or any of the thousands of tv shows and movies produced by Warner Brothers, you will love this. I got to see so many iconic sets, costumes and props and it was unreal. Took a drive through Stars Hollow, past the cafe where Mia Dolan worked, and stopped at the Ellen stage. My favorite part of the tour was getting to go into the set of Fuller House, which also used to be home to the original Full House as well as Friends. Since they're currently filming Fuller House we weren't able to take pictures inside the set but let me just say, my childhood dream has been fulfilled. My job's a joke, I'm definitely broke, and my love life has been DOA for as long as I can remember. I have seen every episode of Friends at least 25 times, and I have this amazing talent of referencing this show in every possible situation or conversation. Getting to sit on the couch, get coffee from Central Perk, and see mementos such as signed scripts and Phoebe's guitar was the best experience ever. I probably embarrassed myself and my whole family with all my fangirling, but who cares? If you're searching for one of those typical LA restaurants with the fresh and healthy options you hear so much about, look no further than Lemonade. With multiple locations in LA as well as San Diego (yes I went again in San Diego), you'll be sure to find a location wherever you are. Though they do sell plenty of killer flavors of lemonade, its much more than that. My favorite dish is the white truffle mac n cheese, as well as the curried cauliflower. There are plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans, and those who are gluten free, so it'll be a hit for everyone. One of the most notorious landmarks in the US is the Hollywood Sign. For decades it has been a beacon of hope to those seeking stardom in the City of Angels. The only not-so-glamorous aspect: the hike up. There's a lot of parking near most of the lookout points but its hard to find a spot and you WILL have to walk up some very steep hills in the dry desert area. This was the perfect lookout point in my opinion, because there aren't many spots much closer unless you want to view it from behind, or you have a property in the Hollywood Hills that you can look out from. I'm going to be honest here. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is kind of overrated. It's crowded with tourists, hard to navigate, and in a not-so-nice part of town. It is however something you have to see once. Most of the time I was there I was just on a mission to find Audrey Hepburn's star, which isn't even on the main road. There were a lot of iconic stars I came across, as well as signatures and handprints at the infamous Chinese Theatre. It's definitely a cool place to check out, just know that it isn't really what you'd expect it to be and it is incredibly touristy. Being a big fan of La La Land and city views alike, Griffith Observatory was paradise to me. I went right at sunset, and it took my breath away. You can see all of downtown Los Angeles from one side, and the Hollywood Sign on the other. I didn't actually go into the observatory or get to see any exhibits, but I definitely will next time I'm in LA. Santa Monica Pier is for sure one of those places you ALWAYS see in movies, and for good reason. Yes, it's touristy. However, it's still a gorgeous beach and has some adorable shops, great food, and fun rides. I will say that the ride tickets for the ferris wheel are overpriced, but the view was really awesome. I had an incredible veggie burger at this place called Pier Burger, and I would highly recommend it for people like me who don't eat meat. The pier is a great place for photo ops, so I made sure to take plenty of pictures for Instagram. After Santa Monica, we took a brief and slightly strange trip to the Venice Beach boardwalk before driving to our hotel in Anaheim. After settling in, we headed to Downtown Disney to get dinner with some friends who live in the area and I had some delicious fish tacos. I loved shopping around, especially at the World of Disney store. If you're a Disney fan as well, you'll understand why this store made me so happy. There's a reason Disney is called the happiest place on earth: it truly makes you forget all your troubles and just feel like a kid again. I've been to Disney World in Orlando multiple times and have also made a trip to Disneyland Paris, but this was my first visit to the original Disneyland in Anaheim, CA. I got to ride so many fun rides, meet a lot of my favorite characters, and eat some delicious food. What more could I want? The only two things that disappointed me were the size of the castle (so much smaller than Cinderella's castle in Florida), and the fact that the fireworks show got cancelled that night due to wind. Other than that, my first visit was magical. Who says meeting the characters at Disneyland is just for kids? My tastebuds definitely got to experience some of the magic of Disneyland too. From the iconic churros, Dole Whip, Mickey-shaped macarons, and this BBQ tofu salad, there was no shortage of delicious food. We had been recommended to try the beignets at the Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney, so we had to stop there before leaving for San Diego. Their beignets are known for being the best beignets outside of New Orleans, and though I don't have anything to compare them to, they were definitely heavenly. I also tried their shrimp po boy, and it was one of the best I've ever had. My first half-day in San Diego was spent mostly relaxing. We checked into our room at the Residence Inn Mission Valley, and headed down to the pool area to lay out and read. After a bit we headed to a restaurant called Mitch's Seafood on the harbor. I had a crab cake sandwich with a side of Mexican corn and it was to die for. The next day we spent at Mission Beach. I laid out in the sand for a while, which I now regret because of the horrible sunburn I got. I was able to ride the 2nd oldest wooden roller coaster in the world, try some incredible fresh fish tacos, and we rented bikes to ride along the boardwalk. Oh and yes, that massive ice cream cone was phenomenal. My family was lucky enough to be invited over for a home cooked meal at my sister's college roommate's house in San Diego. It was so refreshing after having eaten out for every meal for the past 5 days. Following dinner, we got to go hot tubbing beneath the palm trees while staring at the gorgeous moon. It was like paradise until later that night when I realized just how much the hot water had irritated my sunburn. Well, I'd still say was worth it. Our last full day in San Diego was spent at the infamous San Diego Zoo. Peacocks, pandas, flamingos, koalas, and even kangaroos all call this place home. The highlight of my trip was definitely getting to feed the giraffes. It was slightly scary, but honestly you just have to make sure you're holding the food out far enough that they don't confuse your fingers for a treat. I know what you may be thinking, "why did you go to In N Out Burger if you don't eat meat?" I have two answers for you: 1. It's In N Out, it's iconic. 2. They actually have a secret menu grilled cheese, which is basically a burger without the meat. I also got the secret menu animal style fries, which are just fries with cheese, In N Out sauce, and onions. They were so good words can't even describe. I'll be honest though, I wouldn't have liked the fries that much without all the toppings because on their own they're kind of blah. Sorry not sorry. After lounging at the hotel for a bit, my family and I headed to the Seaport Village in downtown San Diego for dinner. I had an amazing shrimp scampi at a restaurant called the Harbor House. After dinner we took some pictures by the marina and shopped around. It may be surprising to some but San Diego actually gets very chilly at night, especially near the water. So after a while, we all got a little too cold and called it a night. Our flight home the next day wasn't until 10pm out of LAX, so we had some time to kill before heading towards LA. We decided to go check out La Jolla Cove and what is called the Children's Pool: an area filled with wild seals who like to lie on the beach and the rocks and hang out. It was so fascinating to see these adorable creatures even though I was angry most of the time at the tourists who were getting a little too close and scaring them back into the water. Like, this is their natural habitat and you're disturbing them just for a picture? Be a little more caring/responsible please. Sorry, mini rant over. Anyways, after seeing the seals we walked around the little town area and did some shopping before heading to Torrey Pines. On our way to Torrey Pines, we stopped at Mount Soledad for the best view of San Diego. When I say this view was breathtaking, I truly mean it. Torrey Pines is a state nature reserve filled with plants, cacti, and amazing views of the ocean. It was a bit of a hike to get up there, but I later realized there's a parking lot up top that you can drive to. Once you're up the big hill, the hike is really simple. It's really just a lot of sand and rocks you're walking over, and the trails are pretty clear. You'd think it'd be pretty hot and dry because of the desert-like terrain, but it's right on the ocean and you still get some of that ocean breeze from down below. I'm not much of a hiker but I must say, this was an incredible experience and worth all the walking and climbing, just for the views. Before officially leaving San Diego, we of course had to stop at one of the few Lemonade locations outside of LA. This time around I got the caprese mozzarella sandwich, which was to die for. I also decided to branch out and try the strawberry rhubarb lemonade and I certainly do not regret it. Let's just say, I may have to move to California one day solely to fuel my Lemonade addiction. A few hours of driving later and we made it back to LA. Everyone always told us that at LAX you should arrive at least 2-3 hours before your flight because it's so busy there. Well, we dropped off our baggage and made it through security in under 20 minutes, so we had a lot of time to kill. I spent a lot of time trying to find open charging stations that worked, because almost all of them were taken or broken. Later on, I cheated on the West Coast with my East Coast love: Shake Shack. I wasn't even too hungry but they had a Shake Shack by my gate and I couldn't pass up the opportunity. I just got some of their incredible crinkle-cut fries and a black and white shake. After finishing my food, it was about time to board our flight. I hopped back on the plane at LAX, this time leaving behind my dream but wearing my cardigan in case I got cold on the plane. A few hours and one low quality photo of what I believe is Indianapolis later, I was back in the cornfields of Ohio. *cue the sad music* I know for sure this was not my last time in California, but for the time being I'm going to miss it dearly. LA, Disney, San Diego: you treated me so well. I'll be back soon (hopefully). XOXO, Amanda
Recently I had the chance to go to Pittsburgh for a night with my family just to explore the city. We had never really been to Pittsburgh and it isn't too far away, so it made for the perfect weekend trip. Though 24 hours isn't a lot, we made the most of our time seeing some cool parts of the Burgh. Despite not having a large amount of time to explore Pittsburgh and all it has to offer, I was so fascinated and inspired by the parts I got to see. There's nothing I love more than going somewhere new and having new experiences. If you're ever looking for a good weekend getaway, I recommend spending some time in the Burgh.
Xoxo, Amanda This past weekend I had the incredible opportunity to travel back to my favorite city in the world, that is, New York City. Though I was only there for three days, I made sure to jam-pack in as many adventures as I possibly could. I decided to compile a list of the things I saw, places I went, food I ate, and sites I instagrammed (because let's be real, NYC is so instaworthy) to share with the world as a guide for a weekend in the city. Whether you've been 20 times or it's your very first time setting foot in Manhattan, I hope you'll appreciate this guide. First thing's first: you MUST make a stop at Shake Shack. It's one of New York's most famous chains and it definitely has something to please everyone. If you don't like burgers, they've got chicken sandwiches. If you don't eat meat, they've even got a mushroom burger (featured here, it was delicious) ! Though I've yet to actually try a shake from Shake Shack, I have heard nothing but good things about them so be sure to check it out! Location: multiple locations across Manhattan and Brooklyn Next up: The Museum of Modern Art, also known as the MoMA. If you're into artists such as Van Gogh, Picasso, Warhol, and Pollock, this is a must see. If you don't feel like paying $25 for a ticket, go on Friday night between 4-8 for the Uniqlo Free Friday Nights. I do recommend going after 5:30 if you want to avoid lines, but trust me you'll still have plenty of time to view the art. If you've been to New York before you've probably been here before, so you can just skip this recommendation. Next on my list is Times Square. The most tourist-y destination in all of NYC, but a must-see at least once in your life. Advertisements lighting up every single corner of every building, stores dedicated specifically to chocolate (hello Hershey's World!), and a 4-floor Forever 21 are just some of the crazy things you'll see here. Not to mention shady versions of your favorite cartoon characters (tip: don't take pictures with them unless you want them following you around for 10 minutes until you finally give in and hand them a five-dollar bill). If a cheap and classic New York slice is what you're looking for, 2 Bros is a solid choice. For only a dollar a slice, you get a beautiful and savory piece of heaven. There are plenty of other dollar slice shops around the city, and depending on who you ask you'll get different recommendations. However, 2 Bros has to be my fave. Looking for a unique kind of museum with displays you won't find hardly anywhere else? Love fashion? Head to the FIT Museum. At the Fashion Institute of Technology (aka FIT), they have a vast collection of designer clothing on display. Though their exhibitions change each semester, each one is always stunning so you're sure to see something worthy of your attention. The High Line is definitely one of the most unique parks in all of New York City, as it was built on an old above-ground railroad track. With cool art pieces, killer views, and an amazing opportunity to people watch, this is the perfect place to unwind when the bustling of the city starts to overwhelm you. For delicious, IG-worthy, completely vegan food, head to By Chloe. They have a few locations in the city but my favorite is the one in Greenwich Village. Even if you aren't a vegan, you must try this place, The food tastes incredible, and I swear to you I've never loved a restaurant more. Recommended eats: the guac burger, air baked fries, and a side of their chipotle aioli and beet ketchup! This one's only for those with a lot of patience and a major sweet tooth. I'm sure everyone has seen the pictures and videos circulating the internet about that place that serves raw cookie dough in scoops like ice cream. Well, that place is called Cookie Do and is located in Greenwich Village. Since it has become so popular, some people claim to have waited hours in line. However, I only waited 40 minutes. I do recommend only getting one scoop unless you're starving, but in my case I had just eaten a satisfying meal at By Chloe. No matter what, it is definitely worth the wait! Beauty gurus: assemble! If you're really into makeup and skincare, you've probably heard of a newer (launched in 2015) brand called Glossier that's quickly becoming a cult classic. They used to be an online-only brand, but recently opened up a showroom in Soho. As an avid follower of all things Glossier since the launch of their very first product, the Coconut Balm Dot Com, I just had to make a stop here. Everything smelled like flowers, and it was full of pink accessories and mirrors with cute sayings on them. I was able to convert my friends into fans while here and I can guarantee even if you've never tried their products, you will absolutely fall in love. If you seek a jaw-dropping view of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge park is where you must go. I suggest getting to the Manhattan side of the bridge at sunset and walking across. It's not a far journey and is accompanied by beautiful views on both sides. By the time you get to Brooklyn, all the buildings will be lit up and ready to inspire you. Grab some food at a local restaurant (I love Ignazio's pizza, it is delicious and has floor-to-ceiling windows so you can gaze out at the skyline). Then feel free to walk back to Manhattan (if that's where you're staying) or take the subway back as there's a station close by. Everyone wants to go to Central Park when they're in New York, but it's just so large it's hard to figure out where to go. My favorite area is in the southeast corner, by the Plaza Hotel. There's a picturesque bridge that you've probably seen in every movie and tv show, along with a quaint little lake filled with ducks and birds of all sorts. It's a peaceful little area and you're able to hit two birds with one stone if you're also planning on checking out The Plaza. Tip: there's a food court in the basement of The Plaza where you can get coffee, sandwiches, and French pastries for a fairly decent price if you're hungry! The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of my favorite places in all of New York. Though this time around I didn't have time to go in, it's always fun to have a little Gossip Girl moment and sit on the Met steps with your friends. If you do have the time, definitely explore the exhibits they have. If I'm being honest, you could spend hours in there. If you're in NYC between May and August and you're into fashion, you have to see the Costume Institute. This is the one that the Met Gala is centered around, where celebrities and A-Listers spend thousands of dollars on tickets and wear the fanciest of couture outfits. So if you want to look at gorgeous garments that Rihanna has also looked at, this is a must-see. My final recommendation is La Maison Laduree. They have locations in the Upper East Side as well as Soho. If you're obsessed with macarons and basically anything French as I am, you'll adore this place. It is a bit pricey, but pretending you're in a cafe on the streets of Paris is a priceless experience. If you're planning a trip to New York City any time soon, I highly suggest you check out some, if not all, of these locations. Even if you live in the city and haven't been to some of these places, you really should check them out. Though my list of favorite places in NYC is always going to be growing, as I tend to flock there very often (and I'll be moving there eventually), for now these are the best I've experienced. Hope you enjoyed my NYC weekend guide and don't forget to share with your friends who maybe enjoy New York as much as I do. With love, Amanda AuthorAmanda Ellis. 18. Ohio. Fashion merchandising student. Lover of all things fashion, music, lifestyle, and travel. |
AuthorUnusual. Not so typical. Way too smart to be waiting around. Tai-chi practicing. Snowboard champion. I can fix the flat on your car. Archives
April 2020
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