Alli Talley

March 30, 2021

5 Reasons to Visit Catalina Island Now

Alli Talley

March 30, 2021

As we’ve officially hit the one-year mark since everything shut down (we base that on Jude’s birthday—it all seemed to hit while we were in the hospital), we’re sure everyone’s feeling that itch to *safely* travel again. (We sure are!!!)

As we’ve begun to plot and plan our family adventures, we’ve realized how picky we are now about the destinations we visit. Not only because of post-pandemic fears, but because traveling with a one year old is NO JOKE. Our most recent family getaway could not have been more perfect (or more convenient). Beautiful, uncrowded, socially distant, and an easy one-hour boat ride from OC/LA…

That’s right. We’re talking Catalina Island! It’s the perfect spot for anybody to ease back into travel and get on island-time. Here are 5 reasons to go to Catalina now!

Easy Plan, Pack and Go

For our Southern California based crew, Catalina Island is such an easy getaway. Whether you’re the planning type that likes to book months in advance or you’re more like us, and you decide to go the day before, either way works! Whenever you’re ready, just hop on to the Catalina Express website and book your tickets. Pack light, since the weather will likely be delightful. Or don’t pack at all… hop on the 7:05 AM departure from Long Beach and head back on the 6:30 PM boat. Talk about an epic day trip!!

Light on the Crowds

We’ve visited Catalina Island on cruise ships before, and while it’s always charming, this quaint little island can get crowded. Not right now!! As cruises are halted and capacities are limited, the island feels calm and peaceful. From the boat ride over, to our favorite mini golf course, to even the submarine adventure we went on were all mellow and crowd free. Considering we’re currently traveling with a loud, crawling baby boy, it was delightful.

We love when crowds are minimal on Catalina Island!

Affordable Activities for the Family

One of our favorite things about Catalina is that it is affordable and accessible for everyone! Some of our favorite activities are mini-golf, renting a golf cart, and the submarine adventure. Jude was OBSESSED with the submarine and all the fish. He even took the wheel :)

Jude was mesmerized on the submarine adventure!

Covid-safe

Catalina has done a fantastic job of implementing safety measure that will give you peace of mind while you visit. Everybody must wear their masks on the boat trip over, which goes as far as no eating and drinking so that masks aren’t even lowered. Once on the island, there are areas that remind you when/where you need to mask up. There are also hand sanitizer stations on the boat, in the hotels and restaurants… basically everywhere you need to make sure you’re germ free. We felt safe throughout our stay!

Eat, Drink, Sleep, Repeat

We could have a whole separate blog on this, but this is why we go to Catalina. Eating, drinking, and sleeping… in any order you prefer. For food and drink, here are some of our favs -

Bistro at the Atwater - The Bistro at the Atwater will deliver your morning caffeine fix, or everything you need for a beach picnic. Grab one of their refreshing salads or a hearty and healthy sandwich and head out for your day in the sun
Catalina Coffee & Cookie - Great for coffee, even better if you add a cookie
Original Jack’s Country Kitchen - Hearty eggs benedict or mouth-watering steak burgers, this spot is solid for breakfast or lunch.
Descanso Beach Club - Drinks, lunch, and lounge chairs. We love the vibe at Descanso Beach Club for lunch with the family, or sunset just the two of us. Sorry Jude.
Maggie’s Blue Rose - One of the best things that happened to Maggie’s Blue Rose during the Covid-era was that they were forced to move dining onto the sand. Not next to the sand. ON the sand. Combine that with their mouth-watering Mexican food, and we’ll be there every time we’re in town. Two margaritas, please!
Avalon Grille - Date night! Such tasty food and drinks, Avalon Grille is perfect for a more romantic evening. Get the Ribeye!
The Lobster Trap - A local favorite for seafood, we ate here on our last trip (pre-Jude) and loved the vibe and food.
Antonio’s Pizzeria and Cabaret - Wine and delicious pizza on the beach? Yes please!
Luau Larry’s - Our go-to spot for Buffalo’s Milk, the official drink of Catalina Island
The Naughty Fox - This is on the top of our list for our next visit. We haven’t been to here yet, but have heard AMAZING things about their cocktails and seaside inspired menu.

First stop of the day - Bistro at the Atwater

Our daily breakfast sandwich from the Bistro!

Drinks with a view at Descanso… we can’t get enough!

Dinner on the sand at Maggie’s Blue Rose

Having stayed in a few different hotels as well as on board sailboats, we’ve experienced of variety of Catalina’s accommodations. Our favorites are the Pavilion Hotel and Hotel Atwater. The Pavilion is right across from the sand, and we love enjoying our morning coffee looking out on the water. We love the design and cozy beds at the Atwater, and Jude was a big fan!

Jude’s already addicted to hotel life :)

While Catalina will always be an easy getaway where you can find both rest or adventure, we’d really recommend sooner rather than later. Eventually, cruise ships will be back and business will be booming on the island… great for them but not as great for the super relaxed vibe. So maybe leave the kids and go tomorrow! We’ll see ya there!

Alli Talley

March 8, 2021

Louisiana, USA, Weekenders

When You're Ready... Louisiana Northshore is Ready for the Whole Family!

Alli Talley

March 8, 2021

Louisiana, USA, Weekenders

When planning our first big road trip with the whole family, we were hesitant to go anywhere out of our comfort zone. We knew a baby and a newborn would be enough of a challenge, so adding in a wildcard destination seemed a little too risky. With that in mind, Louisiana Northshore was at the top of our list of places to head back to. Nestled along the banks of Lake Pontchartrain just 40 minutes north of New Orleans, the Northshore is a perfect destination to explore (or relax) with the whole family! While we know that Covid-19 is still very much a travel deterrent, here we’re sharing our favorite stay, eats, and activities from our second visit to the Northshore. And regardless of when you’re comfortable traveling, whether it be tomorrow or in 2022, the Louisiana Northshore will be ready for you!

The tricky part about things to do on the Northshore is that many of the activities might make you want to move there. The sense of community and belonging is strong, even for visitors like us. From the energy of the concerts at the Dew Drop to the kindness of people you’ll meet while biking the Tammany Trace, you’ll feel like a local in no time.

Even in the midst of a global pandemic, some highlights from our 2020 trip come back to the things we did with other people. On our first night in town, we went to the “Chillin’ at the River Concert” in Bogue Falaya Park, and watched people dancing the night away like Covid-19 didn’t even exist (in their socially distant circles). Another morning we biked the Tammany Trace, with Jude in a carriage, and chatted with several walkers/bikers as they obsessed over our chunky baby. I guess complimenting your baby will make anybody love a community…

A family favorite will definitely be the mule-drawn carriage tour of Covington. Royal Carriages will pull your family around Covington, sharing the rich history along with some of their recommendations for dinner, drinks, or coffee. It was a great way to see the town!

No trip is complete without doing a little shopping. Across their various communities, the Northshore has all the shopping you need. We love downtown Mandeville for the small businesses where we can find perfect souvenirs. Our favorites are Tallulah’s Vintage Market (where we scored some amazing holiday decor), Cameo Boutique (for Alli), The Wild Osprey, and Mae Antiques and Collectibles (for some exciting antiquing).

Lastly, if this is your first trip, make sure to spend time strolling the parks. The trees here are jaw-dropping, so make it a priority. Our favorite spots for strolling among the live oak trees are Lakeshore Drive in Mandeville (on the lake), Bogue Falaya Park, and Fontainebleau State Park.

Getting ready for a magical carriage ride!

Throwing Jude into the trees during a walk on Lakeshore Drive

Stay

With both coastal communities and lush towns situated a few miles from the water, Northshore has a wide range of options for accommodations. On our first visit to the area (in 2019), we stayed at About Trace B&B that’s located in downtown Mandeville. This pet-friendly B&B was walking distance from the banks of Lake Pontchartrain, along with plenty of restaurants and shops. We love downtown Mandeville!

During our 2020 visit, we stayed at the Abita Springs Hotel, centrally located in the charming community of Abita Springs. We loved the cute pink/peach exterior of the small inn, and were obsessed with the layout and design inside. Between the rocking chair on the porch happy hours (while Jude napped) and the big cozy bed, we struggled with ever wanting to leave.

Next time we plan on staying in the overwater cabins on Lake Pontchartrain in Fontainebleau State Park. Sally may get to stay in her first overwater bungalow, as some of them have recently been designated pet-friendly! Who knew you could find an overwater cabin in Louisiana!?!

Eat

We definitely have some favorite spots to eat on the Northshore, but have found some new gems on this trip! For breakfast, we loved Liz’s Back Porch! With tasty (and hearty) plates, colorful decor, and plenty of space between tables, this is a must-visit. Plus, you’ll probably meet Liz while you’re there. She’s a hoot!

Abita Springs Cafe, just a stone's-throw from our Inn, is another go-to for breakfast (or lunch). Go for the tasty Abita Roasting Company coffee, and then come back daily for the beignet bites or massive omeletes! They have a spacious outdoor patio and even a mascot that lives in a chicken coop out back, Omelet the chicken - Jude was obsessed!

While meandering downtown Mandeville, we stumbled upon Girod Street Market & Deli. The market is stocked with seasonal produce, fresh eggs (that were so pretty), and delicious sandwiches. We took a couple to-go and ate them among the live oaks on Lake Shore Drive.

A new restaurant since our visit last year, The Anchor is an open-air, family-friendly restaurant that’s right on the water in Madisonville - they even have an on-premise dock with slips if you come by boat! Between the Fried Oyster Poboy, boat watching, and the rockin’ live music, we didn’t want to leave (but Jude had to nap).

Another new spot (to us) that we dined at in Covington was PePe’s Sonoran Cuisine. The recently crowned “King of Louisiana Seafood”, Chef Robert Vasquez, was there to wow us with his authentic Sonoran cuisine fused with Louisiana flair. I (Bobby) had his crown-winning dish, a red snapper, crawfish sofrito that had flavors I’d drive all the way back for. The margaritas helped us relax despite the busy baby interrupting our otherwise romantic date night :)

If you’re seeking out good beer, look no further than Old Rail Brewing Company or Abita Brewery. Old Rail has a variety of their own hand-crafted beers on tap, with the option to do tastings if you want to try a few. Our favorites were the Toil and Trouble and the Cow Catcher Chocolate Milk Stout! After your brews at Old Rail, be sure to make time for another at Abita Brewery. What started as a small microbrewery is now the largest brewery in Louisiana! While the typically have tours available and a spacious tap room, they temporarily only have their patio open due to Covid. Still worth the visit! Be sure to grab a case of “The Boot”, a crisp, light beer that they only sell in Louisiana.

The Anchor is right on the water - such a great spot.

Cheers to the King of Louisiana Seafood!

We stumbled upon St. Tammany Parish, also known as Louisiana’s Northshore, on a road trip in 2019 and quickly new that it was special. The picturesque towns each have their own character, there are plenty of outdoor activities for all, and the culinary scene is bustling. Covid-19 may keep you from this gem for a few more months, but when you feel safe, it’s a perfect place to satisfy your travel cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekender or a family-friendly getaway, Louisiana Northshore is ready for you!

Alli Talley

October 26, 2020

USA, Weekenders, Arizona

The Best Kept Secret in 2020 - Secret Season!

Alli Talley

October 26, 2020

USA, Weekenders, Arizona

It’s no secret that 2020 has been a not-so-good year. Well, we had a son and that was absolutely wonderful, but everything else has been pretty rough. But good news - we’re here to help you cap 2020 off with a Covid-safe vacay that won’t break the bank. Have you heard of “Secret Season”? Similar to “shoulder season”, it’s a time of year in Scottsdale (October-December) that offers an uncrowded destination and hotel bargains that will have you thinking, “How can we NOT go?”. We’re talking the same luxurious experience and prime weather of peak season February and March, for an average of 30% lower rates. You may even feel guilty tanning while the rest of the country is avoiding blizzards.

We may “secretly” sneak out to Scottsdale in the coming weeks, and if we do, you’ll find us at the Hyatt Regency. This sprawling resort is a dream for families craving room to roam, and they’re pet-friendly! We stayed there last December and enjoyed a room with a patio right on their small lagoon - Sally LOVED it. Now that we’re a family of four (one kid, one dog), we’d have so much more to take advantage of - water slides, gondola rides, biking and walking paths, golf, and spa treatments (Alli?). Jude may not be able to take a ride on the three-story water slide this time, but Bobby will go enough times for the both of them! And remember… this will probably be in November or December, when most of the country is in their jackets and boots! Scottsdale in November boasts highs that are in the mid-seventies! Perfect weather to get your tan on! A few of our other favorites include Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Hotel Valley Ho, The Scott, and Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa. So many choices… you may need to stay a little longer!

Sally loved our patio at the Hyatt Regency. We did too - especially with this spread!

Speaking of choices. Good luck deciding where to eat in Scottsdale. Maybe we should spin it a different way… there are so many amazing restaurants that you could blindly pick a spot and you’d be raving the next day. And now that many of them are open for dine-in service (with Covid-safe precautions), here are some of our favorites:

The Mission - Go to the one in Old Town -our favorite! The ambience is perfect for a date night, but buzzing enough for the whole family to chat – or baby babble - freely. If you don’t get tableside guac, then you’re blowing it. If you want to splurge, share the pork shoulder tacos. And churros are also a must.
Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar - Ready for flavors your taste buds won’t comprehend? South American meets Chinese cuisine and explodes in sushi, ceviche, and insane rum cocktails! And if you’re there in December, check out Christmas at the Princess for an outdoor, physically distanced winter wonderland!
FnB - Seasonal, farm-fresh, local ingredients put together in a way that will have you thinking, “Why have I never put these together?” Prepare to be dazzled and to leave planning your next visit.
Farm & Craft - If you’re looking for a healthy start to your day, Farm & Craft serves healthy, sustainable food with hormone free and organic ingredients, kombucha on tap, and gluten-free and vegan options,! We recommend the Acai Bowl or the Breakfast Sandwich!
The Hash Kitchen - As we’ve mentioned before, we knew we were in for a treat when we walked in and saw Arizona’s largest bloody mary bar. Due to Covid this may have changed in terms of DIY, but they still have a delicious bloody mary! And incredible donuts! Hashes are their specialty, and you definitely won’t leave hungry!
Cartel Coffee Lab - Not for a meal, but for coffee. There are multiple Cartel Coffee Labs and they are all good… it’s where we get our caffeine fix!
Where we’re headed next… Andreoli Italian Grocer, Virtu Honest Craft, Maple & Ash, and Butterfield’s Pancake House.

You see how the Bloody Mary itself could be a meal?

So much to see in Historic Old Town Scottsdale!

To work off all the food, we have a few Covid-safe activities planned.

Hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. With over 30,000 acres of Sonoran Desert and 225+ miles of trails, it’s an incredible sight and naturally socially distanced activity. We recommend arranging a guide with REI Co-op Experiences to show you the way.
All aboard! We’re looking forward to taking Jude on a Holiday Lights train ride at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. If you’re there during the holidays, it’s pure magic.
Looking to hit the links? There are more than 50 golf courses in Scottsdale, and prices are typically a bit lower than peak season during secret season. While you won’t see us for a round of 18, you may find us at Topgolf Scottsdale.
Wine Tasting! We’ve looked into it, and five of the six Arizona wine tasting rooms on the Scottsdale Wine Trail are open! The wineries are Aridus Wine Company, Carlson Creek, Salvatore Vineyards, Su Vino and Merkin Vineyards. LDV Winery is closed for construction, but the other five are within walking distance of each other and have some delicious wines. Aridus Wine Company is currently the only one you need a reservation for. Can we bring Jude?
Las Noches De Las Luminarias - This holiday season, the Desert Botanical Garden will be lit with 8,000 flickering luminarias and twinkling lights. Add in a festive holiday drink and it’s the perfect outdoor event for us right before Jude’s bedtime :)
Holiday Lights at Salt River Fields - a brand new holiday lights event specially designed as a safe, drive-thru holiday experience enjoyed from one’s own vehicle that sounds like pure MAGIC. There are nearly 5 million lights synchronized to Christmas melodies that are bound to make Alli weep tears of joy.

Planning our route in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

The train ride at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a must!

If you’re there during the holiday season, check out Christmas at the Princess!

Shhh… Secret season in Scottsdale is where it’s at. If you haven’t ventured out on a vacay in 2020, this is the perfect place to test the waters. Wide open spaces, safe and clean resorts at a bargain, world-class dining, and outdoor activities aplenty. (But let’s keep this little secret between us, k?)

We can’t wait to be back exploring the Sonoran Desert!

Alli Talley

August 31, 2020

Arizona, Road Trip, Weekenders

WE’RE VACATION READY, AND SO IS SCOTTSDALE

Alli Talley

August 31, 2020

Arizona, Road Trip, Weekenders

There’s no doubt that 2020 has hindered a LOT of travel plans, but that does not mean a relaxing vacay is out of the question.

As we adapt to life as we now know it, we’re anticipating and researching destinations that fit into our new normal. Places that have all of our favorite elements (stunning scenery, luxurious hotels, a buzzing foodie scene, outdoor adventures…) but that also make it easy to stay socially distanced. One of the spots that is high on our road tripping hit list is Scottsdale, Arizona.

We spent a few days in Scottsdale back in December (when Alli was 26 weeks pregnant with Jude), and we had a blast. Scottsdale comes alive at the holidays, but from what we’ve heard it’s every bit as magical right now. Here’s why we’re so keen to return:

SCOTTSDALE RESORTS ARE OFFERING INCREDIBLE DISCOUNTS

One of our initial draws to visiting Scottsdale was the abundance of luxe and stylish resorts. From chic adult-only hotels with boozy cocktails and award-winning spas, to family-friendly properties with waterslides and playgrounds, Scottsdale properties have it all. And from now until early September, chances are you can find some killer deals on rooms. We’re talking four-star resorts for around $100/night. Yep - you read that right!!

We stayed at the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows and it was absolutely heavenly - and perfect for social distancing. Each room is a bungalow, meaning there are no indoor hallways or narrow walkways, and limited guest interaction. You even get your own patio all to yourselves!

Sally’s ready to head back to the Andaz!

SCOTTSDALE HAS TONS OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

If you’re like us, you’ve spent the bulk of this year cooped up at home. We’re anxious for some solid outdoor time, and the opportunities in Scottsdale are endless! From family-friendly hikes, to adrenaline-racing mountain biking and world-famous golf courses, Scottsdale is an adventure-lover’s dream. Not to mention, it’s easy to safely explore this desert oasis away from crowds.

One of our favorite socially-distanced activities (and excursion from our previous Scottsdale trip) is a sunrise hike! The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is a breathtaking desert preserve complete with 225 miles of trails for hiking and biking for all skillsets. Adventure on your own, or go with a guide from REI Co-op Experiences. Not only will you learn all about Arizona’s plants, wildlife, and history - but you’ll make a friend while you’re at it!

Loved exploring the McDowell Sonoran Preserve with REI Co-op Experiences!

SCOTTSDALE TAKEOUT > TAKEOUT ANYWHERE ELSE

We’d be lying if we said that the majority of our last trip to Scottsdale wasn’t planned around our meals. If you didn’t already know this, Scottsdale is a MECCA for foodies. Their restaurant scene is one of the best in the nation, and if that’s not reason enough to head there, then we don’t know what is! Cozy up in your lavish hotel room, put on Netflix, and order in from some of the most talked about restaurants in the nation… does it get better than that?

Some of our favorite Scottsdale restaurants (that would make some dreamy takeout) are:

Breakfast Sandwich at Farm & Craft is delish!

The Mission was an INCREDIBLE first dinner in Scottsdale. Highly recommend!

Duke’s Luau Pork Plate was a hit a Hula’s!

Bobby dreams of the Hash Kitchen Bloody Mary’s.

SCOTTSDALE IS RELAXATION AT ITS BEST

Listen, 2020 has been a YEAR. We could ALL use a little relaxation time. We’re talking warm desert heat, a cold pool, and a refreshing margarita (or two) - because you deserve it. Scottsdale has all of the necessary elements for a peaceful, relaxing, and safe getaway.

You don’t need to bring much, just your bathing suit, comfy pants, face mask and a couple of good books. (Oh! And bring your dog - many of Scottsdale’s finest resorts are puppy-friendly!) And if you’re not quite ready to venture out just yet, check out our blog about Scottsdale during the holidays - Christmas is only four months away!

Important note: Scottsdale’s tourism and hospitality community is following stringent public health practices to minimize the risk of COVID-19 and help ensure that your time spent in this Sonoran Desert oasis is safe and enjoyable. We encourage you to read up on everything they’re doing to keep visitors healthy and hey, even take the Safe Traveler Pledge!

Ultimately, please travel cautiously. If you aren’t feeling 100% or you’re high risk, please stay at home. If you’re scared, nervous, or unsure - don’t go! Please use discernment, and continue to stay informed of potential risks when on the road and/or at home.

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Weekenders, USA

VACATION RENTAL GOALS :: MORRO BAY

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Weekenders, USA

Maybe it’s because we’re getting older, or maybe it’s because we’ll soon be a “traveling family”, but whatever it is, we’ve recently been really intrigued by vacation rentals. Don’t get us wrong, we still love a good hotel… but there’s something to be said for having an actual home-away-from-home. Having space to spread out, a kitchen to cook in, a cozy living room… it really makes such a difference!

On our last trip before baby, we headed up the California coast to Morro Bay, where there is an amazing variety of unique, picturesque, and surprisingly affordable vacation rentals. We stayed at the Salty Sisters Boutique Hotel, a vacation rental under The Seven Sisters (which we LOVED), and we toured a few others too! Depending on the kind of getaway you’re looking for, and how big your group is, here’s 3 phenomenal vacation rental options in the quaint seaside town of Morro Bay:

THE SALTY SISTERS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

This pristine (and brand new!) vacation rental property sits just steps from the many shops and restaurants along the Morro Bay Embarcadero, and features panoramic views of Morro Rock. There are 6 individual units on the property, that can be combined depending on how many people are joining in the adventures. All of them have kitchens/kitchenettes, and each has its own bright, coastal character.

The location couldn’t have been more ideal, as it’s walking distance to the beach, all of the best Morro Bay shops and restaurants, and there were sea otters basically right outside our door! (Cutest EVER.) We loved every minute of our time there - and are already planning a trip back with our family!

The views from the upper deck at the Seven Sisters was the best part!

Stunning kitchen layout! Love the light and bright living space!

Best time of day - wine time on the roof!

THE PELICAN HOUSE

This luxury four-bedroom beachfront home is perfect for a large group, as there’s plenty of space… and it sleeps eight! Plus, the ocean views and patio are nothing short of dreamy. We enjoyed a sunset happy hour by their firepit, and the setting couldn’t have been more idyllic!

The Pelican House is about a five minute drive from downtown Morro Bay, and a quick and easy walk to the beach. They even have the home stocked with surfboards, boogie boards, beach chairs, and more! It’s the perfect oceanfront getaway!

We were obsessed with the patio at The Pelican House!

THE FISHERMAN’S HOUSE

For a more quirky, cozy, and distinctly “Morro Bay” experience - the vibrant Fisherman’s House is a must! Located steps from the Embarcadero, this one-bedroom bungalow is hands-down one of the most special and unique vacation rentals in town… and the spacious dock is its crowning feature! We ate breakfast one morning there, and it felt like we were in a movie. We have plans to return someday soon and when we do, we’ll most definitely spend most of our time on the dock. (There’s even a spot to clean your fish, if you’re the fishing type!) The decor inside is quaint and welcoming, with a fully-stocked kitchen and a snug little living room area. We know you’ll be as obsessed with it as we are!

It goes without saying that there are countless other vacation rentals in Morro Bay (you can find more here), but these are three that really stood out to us. (And that we will most definitely be returning to for years to come! If you visit one, be sure to leave a comment and let us know! (And can we join you?!) ;)