Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

AN ADVENTUROUS (AND ROMANTIC) BABY MOON IN MORRO BAY

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

Since we’ve found out we were expecting, it feels as though we’ve been “babymooning” non-stop. We made a list of all of the spots we wanted to be sure to visit pre-baby, and did our best to make it happen. With the exception of the Maldives (one day!!), we hit up nearly every place on our list!

As we’ve neared the impending due date, we’ve followed our doctor’s advice and kept the trips closer and closer to home. We decided to make our last and final hurrah before baby a scenic road trip up the coast of California to the coastal town of Morro Bay. We loaded up our car seat (just in case), and headed four hours north of our home in Orange County… and it was the perfect ending to the most special season.

Below are some of the trip highlights that we highly suggest y’all do - we share about where we stayed here, and where we ate here. (Two very important details, that clearly demanded their own blog post.) ;)

KAYAK WITH CENTRAL COAST OUTDOORS

The friendly husband and wife duo that run Central Coast Outdoors offer all kinds of adventurous and scenic tours - from biking, to hiking, to kayaking! We went on a half-day private kayaking tour to the dunes, where John (our knowledgeable and witty guide) set up a picture-perfect picnic lunch. And the lunch was as good as it looks!

We saw sea lions, sea otters, and harbor seals, several types of rare birds, learned about the incredible National Estuary, and thoroughly enjoyed our time out on the water. I (Alli) expected to have a harder time sitting in a kayak at eight months pregnant, but it was actually quite comfy! (Just make sure you go to the bathroom beforehand.)

John prepped our lunch while we explored the dunes!

EXPLORE THE MORRO BAY EMBARCADERO

During our three days in Morro Bay, we basically lived on the Embarcadero. Our vacation rental was steps away, most of the restaurants we visited were there, and the shops and views kept us entertained for hours. This iconic stretch is a must-see, as it’s home to some of the best scenic overlooks and many of Morro Bay’s finest attractions. Some not-to-miss spots include Crills 2 (the best saltwater taffy in town), The Shell Shop (a famous seashell sanctuary), The Garden Gallery (a jaw-dropping plant and home shop), and The Morro Bay House of Jerky (for a delicious salty snack).

We wanted everything at The Garden Gallery

ENJOY A COUPLES MASSAGE AT THE BLOOMING ROSE DAY SPA

We’ll take any excuse for a couples massage, and when we heard about Blooming Rose Day Spa, we immediately booked an appointment! This waterfront day spa (located conveniently on the Embarcadero) is warm and inviting, and the owner Alexis and her team couldn’t be nicer. Our massages were excellent (Alexis gave me an incredible prenatal massage) - and we both said we’d drive back to Morro Bay just for this! They’re mobile as well, and will happily come to your hotel/vacation rental for a more personalized experience.

SEE THE SEA OTTERS

Hands down the cutest, most playful and photogenic friends in Morro Bay are their resident sea otters. This small, sheltered bay is a perfect habitat for these adorable furry creatures, and seeing them bob and play in the water is absolutely magical. We couldn’t get enough of them! Our favorite spot to watch the otters was near the T-shaped dock by the Great American Fish Company, where there’s a giant kelp bed for them to feast on. Don’t forget your cameras!

HIKE ALONG BLACK HILL TRAIL

For the best views of Morro Rock and the surrounding area, spend an afternoon hiking along the stunning Black Hill Trail. This is the perfect hike for a babymoon, as from the parking lot, it’s an easy .6 mile round-trip trail… yes please! (For those looking for a longer hike, you can start further down Black Hill.) The sights from this 661 foot volcanic peak left us breathless, and the best part is, it’s free to the public!

TOUR THE MORRO BAY MARITIME MUSEUM

Open Thursdays-Mondays, the small but mighty Morro Bay Maritime Museum is well worth a visit. Guests can learn about California’s fascinating maritime history, walk around a rescue submarine - and if you’re lucky, you may even get to go inside! (We did, and it was SO cool.) And just like the Black Hill Trail, this beautifully executed museum is free! Win/win!

TAKE A SUNSET CRUISE WITH ESTERO ADVENTURES

One of our favorite memories from our time in Morro Bay was the sunset cruise we did on a pontoon we rented from Estero Adventures. Starting at $90 for a one-hour rental, it’s a fun and leisurely way to take in the sights of Morro Bay - and see the sea otters up close! We had the boat to ourselves, but they seat up to 8 people, so be sure to invite your friends!

WALK ALONG THE MORRO STRAND STATE BEACH

On our last day in Morro Bay we went for a morning beach walk along the Morro Strand State Beach, and it was the perfect way to close out our trip. This gorgeous coastline is absolutely spellbinding, and the views of Morro Rock are unparalleled. We didn’t want to leave! (Depending on how much time you have, we recommend bringing some blankets and a picnic, and making a day out of it!)

Nothing like long walks on the beach at 8 months pregnant :)

We really feel like we ended our babymoon adventures in the best possible location… and we’re already dreaming about the day that we get to bring our baby back to Morro Bay! Until then, we’re hunkering down and getting our home (and ourselves) ready for the baby. Any day now!!

Alli Talley

September 23, 2019

Montana, USA, Weekenders

A Couples Guide to 24 Hours in Helena, Montana

Alli Talley

September 23, 2019

Montana, USA, Weekenders

I (Alli) learned my state capitals by singing a catchy little tune that I learned in elementary school (anyone else?) - and it still comes in handy to this day! (Name the capital of Alabama… Montgomery! Boom!!)

When I heard we were stopping in Helena, Montana, that song immediately came to mind. And I of course, began singing it to Bobby. ;) But beyond the fact that Helena is indeed Montana’s state capital, my knowledge about this city was limited! Thankfully that changed on our roadtrip, as we spent some time exploring this booming, history and outdoorsy city. And it only took 24 hours for us to know we want to go back. We have a feeling you’ll feel the same way, too.

MORNING

Hike the 1906 Trail :: We love a good early morning hike, and this 2.9 mile loop is not only very easy (and dog friendly), but it takes you to the top of Mt. Helena, where you’ll find stunning views of the capitol city. Bring water, the hike is gradual, but it IS uphill!

Light Breakfast at HUB Coffee :: Grab a cappuccino and a breakfast sandwich at HUB Coffee, a bright, airy, and welcoming coffee shop right in the heart of Helena’s Downtown Walking Mall. If you feel like a sweet treat, try one of their delectable baked goods. Hey, you’re on vacation!

Explore the Downtown Walking Mall :: There are plenty of fun shops, boutiques, restaurants, and bars throughout the Walking Mall or “Last Chance Gulch” for one to discover. Be sure to stop in The Parrot Confectionery - a quaint old fashioned candy store!

AFTERNOON

Lunch at Windbag Saloon :: You’ll probably be surprised to find out that this modern and lively pub sits in what was Helena’s last bordello! Now, the Windbag Saloon serves some of the best bar food and drinks in town. Don’t leave without trying their mac n’ cheese!

Cathedral of St. Helena :: Modeled after the Votivkirche in Vienna, Austria, this jaw-dropping cathedral rivals European Cathedrals, with its stunning stained glass windows and intricate architecture. If you’re lucky, you may even hear the organ play!

EVENING

Burgers at The Friendly York Bar :: Just a short (and scenic) 20 minute drive from downtown Helena is this rustic, hole-in-the-wall, remote bar. While their drinks are good (and cheap), the star of the show here is their burger. Grab a seat at the bar, order a famous York burger and a cold one, and make friends with the locals!

Wine at The Hawthorne :: End the night with a crisp glass of wine - and maybe a cheese board if you’re still hungry - at this chic bottle shop and tasting room. It’s intimate and romantic, and their selection of wine is really impressive. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, the servers are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful!

We’ll be back to York for both patties… the beef and the York :)

24 hours in Helena, Montana isn’t enough. But if you stick to this itinerary, you’ll get a great taste for all that this entrancing city has to offer. And you’ll definitely leave anxious to plan your next trip back!

Alli Talley

August 27, 2019

Washington, Weekenders, USA

A Romantic Weekend in Leavenworth

Alli Talley

August 27, 2019

Washington, Weekenders, USA

PICTURE THIS :: You pull up to a charming Bavarian village, set in the foothills of striking, green mountains… the wind is crisp, and cool, and the scent of bratwursts and freshly baked pretzels looms in the air. In the distance you catch sight of a bustling main street, lined with colorful buildings and hanging planters overflowing with fresh flowers. You hear a live folk band playing in the distance, and you’re torn between settling in at your plush chateau, or immediately immersing yourself in the Bavarian culture.

Are you intrigued yet?!

Best part is, you’re only a 2 ½ hour drive from Seattle! That’s right, this quintessential, picture-perfect Bavarian town exists in Washington, just below the Cascade mountains. You don’t have to spend your life savings on a plane ticket (or dedicate a 24 hour travel day) to visit a place that’s rich in German culture, and boasts world-class dining, luxurious wellness spas, local wineries, charming boutique hotels, and more. We’d like to think it’s one of the best kept secrets in the US, and while we’re tempted to keep this fairytale destination to ourselves, it’s only fair that we share it with you! (Just don’t tell too many people, k?) ;)

We just returned from an incredibly romantic and relaxing weekend in Leavenworth, and thought we’d recap it - because it was the dreamiest 48 hours we’ve had in a LONG time!

WHERE WE STAYED

THE POST HOTEL :: Nestled above the Wenatchee River, the stunning Post Hotel is a true adult-only, extravagant and refreshingly private oasis - and it’s right in the heart of downtown Leavenworth! (It literally couldn’t be in a better location… but back to the hotel.)

They’ve taken authentic wellness concepts from the Alps and have created a luxurious and elegant retreat, complete with saunas and steam rooms, plunge pools, a full-service spa, and so much more. Also included in your stay is an 18-hole championship putting course and continental breakfast, light lunch, and evening coffee and desserts. Oh, and did we mention that guests are encouraged to wear their robes around the property? It’s perfectly acceptable to dine and relax in your robes - and being big fans of “robe life”, we were in HEAVEN.

The Post Hotel is the kind of place where you never have to leave, and we’d be tempted not to, if it wasn’t for how adorable, unique, and downright quirky Leavenworth is!

Love the details in this hotel! Especially this staircase.

Alli wouldn’t be sad if she could live in a robe…

WHAT WE DID

SWIM :: It goes without saying that we spent a good amount of our time taking in all of the amenities at the Post Hotel. We spent hours swimming in their swim-out saltwater pool and indoor spas, and we even took advantage of their absolutely heavenly nap room! We’d wake up, immediately change into our swimsuits, swim for an hour, and then make our way to the breakfast room. (Dressed in our robes, of course!) We’d usually have an afternoon swim, and a post-dinner swim too… Because, why not?

BIKE :: One morning after breakfast we decided to take advantage of the complimentary bicycles at The Post Hotel, and go for a ride around downtown Leavenworth and the picturesque Blackbird Island. It ended up being a leisurely and picturesque 5-mile ride that we highly recommend!

GOLF :: The Enzian Falls Putting Course is a professionally designed 18-hole championship putting course that is free to guests of the Post Hotel (and guests of Enzian Inn and Linderhof Inn, as well), and it’s a BLAST. We spent an evening before dinner playing a round, and couldn’t believe how surprisingly challenging and creative each hole was. Bobby ended up beating me… but not by much. Nothing like a little friendly competition when you’re on vacation, right?

EXPLORE :: Everytime we come back to Leavenworth, we find ourselves spending hours just walking around the downtown, shopping in the many boutiques, wine tasting in the various tasting rooms, and discovering new museums and stores we’d missed the time before. This time around we decided to tour the famous Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, which holds more than 6,000 nutcrackers! It’s fascinating to see the thousands of different nutcrackers from around the world, and with an admission charge of only $5, it’s definitely worth a visit!

WHAT WE ATE

THE POST HOTEL :: We enjoyed many of our meals at the Post Hotel, and from the breakfasts to the evening desserts, everything we had was fresh, healthy, and incredibly delicious. We loved their specialty omelettes in the morning, and their daily soups and extensive salad bar at lunch. Bobby’s favorite? The homemade pretzel bites and melted cheese! We’d go back to the Post Hotel just for the food!

BRATS :: We can’t visit Leavenworth without having brats at least twice. (I’m convinced Bobby would have them for breakfast if he could!) This time around we decided to try the brats at München-Haus and the Leavenworth Sausage Garten - both of which we thoroughly enjoyed. Many Leavenworth locals have strong opinions on which is better than the other, but we truly enjoyed both! They’re also conveniently across the street from each other, so if one happens to have a line, go to the other! Also, Bobby wanted to make sure it be known that he would go to Leavenworth for the mustard. Both of these spots have selections of 15+ mustard varieties that will delight any mustard fan!

PIZZA :: This was our first time ordering pizza in Leavenworth, and we’re happy to report that the pizza at Blewett Brewing Company is really good (we ordered to-go and took it back to the hotel), and their beer is great too (we enjoyed a pint while we waited). This spot is sure to be a new Leavenworth tradition!

TREATS :: Just like any traditional Bavarian town, the baked goods and sweet treats are not to be missed. Our favorite place for cookies, cakes, and scones is The Gingerbread Factory. While we’re not typically creatures of habit when it comes to traveling, we are when we come here. We always get the Soft Iced Gingerbread Cookies (the one with the pink frosting). We’re not sure if it’s the soft gingerbread cookie or the melt-in-your-mouth yet not-too-sweet frosting, but it’s delightfully decadent. Next time we plan on trying their famous Raspberry Scones, as people in line were raving about them, too!

HOW WE GOT THERE

One of the many reasons why we love Leavenworth (and why we keep coming back), is how convenient it is to get there. It’s only about a couple hour drive from Seattle or Spokane, so we typically look for the best deals on flights to one of those spots and rent a car. If our flight is early enough, we can be in Leavenworth in time to grab a late lunch!

Can you picture yourself in Leavenworth yet? We sure hope so. It’s a place that we’ll be returning to for relaxation and German culture for years to come. We’re already planning a winter escape, as we’ve heard it’s absolutely magical during the holiday season. We hope to see you there!

Alli Talley

April 15, 2018

Weekenders, California, Romantic

5 Things to do during a Weekender on Catalina Island

Alli Talley

April 15, 2018

Weekenders, California, Romantic

Those of you that follow us closely know that we’re right in the thick of the hustle.

Balancing our full-time jobs, moonlighting as content creators, doing our best as puppy paw-rents, and still finding ways to fill our social calendar… it can be exhausting!! Weekend trips are one of the ways we decompress, spend quality time together, and enjoy a new destination. As Southern California natives, we normally think of Catalina Island as a quick day trip and nothing more. But after spending a weekend there recently, we’ve realized the PARADISE we’ve been overlooking. Catalina Island is probably the best weekend getaway for So-Cal residents. It’s easy to get to, beautifully tropical, and boasts some incredible restaurants. Here’s our “Top 5” must-do’s on a weekend trip to Catalina:

1. East End Adventure

This was a thrill in every sense of the word - and arguably the BEST way to see the island! Think the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland meets Soaring Over California. You’re off-roading with views so magnificent you feel as though you’re flying! The East End Adventure team takes groups daily on a Hummer tour around Catalina. You scale mountains you didn’t even know you could climb! We saw wildlife, stunning viewpoints, and at one point we could even see both sides of the island at once!

2. Lunch at Mt. Ada

This might possibly be the best-kept secret of Catalina Island. The famous Mt. Ada (formerly the Wrigley mansion) is known for their historic B&B and picture-perfect views of the island… but what many people don’t know, is that they offer a 3-course lunch that the public can enjoy! Included in the price is beer, wine, and the most epic view of Catalina. Not to mention the food is delicious! Reservations are required, so keep that in mind as you plan your weekend.

3. Catalina Aerial Adventure

We’ll be honest, Alli did everything she could to try and get out of this. We’re both afraid of heights, and the aerial adventure seemed absolutely daunting. But, being the adventurers that we are, we did it. And we survived. And it might just be our favorite memory of the trip!! The adventure staff encouraged us through every challenge, and towards the end we REALLY felt like we’d bonded with them. We ended up doing 3 courses, two of which were level 2 (out of 3)!

4. Island Spa Catalina

After our Aerial Adventure tour, nothing sounded better than a morning at the spa! The Island Spa Catalina is brand new, located inside the historic El Encanto building and has luxurious lounge spaces, soaking pools, and a vista deck where you can take in the view of the coast. We indulged in a couples massage and then spoiled ourselves with champagne and snacks while enjoying the views. It was one of our highlights of the trip!

5. Twilight at the Casino Tour

Raise your hand if you’ve traveled to Catalina Island several times, but have never gone inside the world-famous Casino! Us too! This charming tour is a MUST in our book, and here’s why. It’s led by a man named "Frankie from Avalon" (look him up, he’s famous on Trip Advisor!), and he might very well be the most precious man we’ve ever met. Frankie grew up on the island and created this tour himself. His knowledge of the casino’s history, the musicians and celebrities that have graced the stage, the events that have taken place, etc., is incredible. After he’s whisked you around the casino, through the dressing rooms, and hidden passageways, he’ll bring you to the dance floor on the top level. There you’re served wine and given the chance to learn to swing dance with him!

So, there’s our top five must-do’s on a weekend trip to Catalina. Other important details to mention:

Getting There: Hop aboard the Catalina Express. With ports in Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point, there are plenty of options for all SoCal natives. It takes about 60 minutes, is a smooth ride, and beautiful views at sunset. We opted to spend the extra $15 to upgrade to the Commodore's Lounge, where you have priority boarding, more comfortable seating, and a complimentary beverage with packaged snacks. It was a great experience!

Stay: Book a room at the Pavilion Hotel - you won’t regret it. The hotel has comfortable rooms, a delicious complimentary hot breakfast, and prime location. The rooms face an expertly manicured tropical garden that will instantly set your watch to island time (hehe). Spend the afternoon relaxing in a chaise lounge, watch the sun set over the ocean during their complimentary wine and cheese reception each day, or sit around the fire pit and make new friends.

Our Favorite Eats: Mt. Ada, Avalon Grille, Descanso Beach Club, the Lobster Trap (local favorite!), and Blue Water Grill.

All that to say, Catalina is the real deal. The Pavilion is rejuvenating, the food is delicious, and there are all kinds of adventures to be had. We will be sure to hustle back.

Thank you to Visit Catalina Island for sponsoring this post!