Alli Talley

February 18, 2020

Weekenders, USA, Travel Essentials

Beyond the Prius: Why We Utilized an Enterprise Rental for Our Final Babymoon Adventure

Alli Talley

February 18, 2020

Weekenders, USA, Travel Essentials

This post is sponsored by Enterprise . All opinions are our own.

Our final babymoon adventure in Morro Bay

We are less than a month out from our lives changing forever.

Alli is 9 months pregnant, Sally is wondering why there’s all this extra stuff all over our house, and I (Bobby) am spending my spare time building dressers and cribs. While we’re now home nesting and prepping, we had an unforgettable run of trips and adventures during this pregnancy. (We basically traveled the entire time!) And we just returned from our final pre-baby adventure - a picturesque road trip up the California coast to the charming coastal town of Morro Bay.

Nothing like a relaxing drive up the California coast.

If any of you are far enough in your pregnancy that you’re in the uncomfortable stage (or if you’ve been there before), you’ll understand why Alli was upset when I booked this trip and planned on driving there in our Prius. Her belly basically hits the dashboard! With that in mind, we made things easy by renting a car from Enterprise. It was seamless, affordable, and our rental made us feel more family-ready than ever before (ironically, we rented a minivan). As you can see in the photo, Alli had more than enough space to relax, stretch out, and watch for baby kicking. :)

We headed out early on a Monday and enjoyed the coastal route from Malibu to Morro Bay. Highway 1 is one of our favorite drives in the world (we do it annually - if not more). If you have time, we highly recommend this route. It meanders through countless small towns, hugs the coastline, provides jaw-dropping views, and forces drivers like us (California drivers who are always in a hurry) to slow down and take it in.

We stopped in Venice Beach, Santa Barbara, and Pismo Beach before arriving in Morro Bay. We spent our time there eating tons of seafood (don’t ask how many oysters I consumed), searching for otters, and relaxing at our vacation rental. Because Morro Bay is such a small town, we were able to explore most of it on foot. But when Alli needed a break, or the trek was too far, we loaded up our minivan and hit the road. (Side note - Anybody else have fun with the automatic sliding doors on a minivan? What a concept!)

Favorite coffee stop in San Luis Obispo - Scout Coffee!

We spent most of our time in Morro Baby gawking over the sea otters.

To really soak in our last trip, one morning we made the drive up to Big Sur and back. This stretch is truly the highlight of the drive, so if you’ve never done it, make it happen. It’s insane!

Our drive home was less eventful, as Alli snoozed and I focused on getting us home safely one last time (before the baby). The drive was quick and easy, causing us to think maybe we should’ve explored a little more. ;)

In the end, having the minivan was a game changer for 8-months pregnant Alli. It was an affordable and easy way to make her much more comfortable for the four-hour trip. If we stick with our Prius, we will definitely plan another Enterprise rental for any last-minute babymoon adventures. But who knows, maybe by then we’ll have a minivan of our own!

The drive up to Big Sur is insane! See the minivan on the right?

High five to making it home safe! Such a fun trip!

Alli Talley

February 13, 2020

USA, Weekenders, California

Three Hot Date Nights in Irvine, California

Alli Talley

February 13, 2020

USA, Weekenders, California

Now more than ever, our date nights are sacred. In a month (or less), our lives will change forever - and date nights will undoubtedly become a little more difficult to arrange. (But don’t worry, we’ll still make them a priority!)

The further I get into this pregnancy, the more we appreciate staying close to home. Being “OC” residents, we’re realizing just how much there is to do, see, and explore in our own backyard. And now that our doctor prefers that we quit traveling for a while, we’re having a blast re-discovering the many thriving cities around us.

Recently we’ve been hooked on Irvine. It’s a city that can get easily overlooked by its flashy and touristy neighbors- but we’re here to let you in on a little secret. Irvine is on the rise. It’s bursting with culture, adventure, culinary delights, and a chic nighttime scene. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s a few of the many fun (and eclectic) date nights we’ve had in Irvine - be sure to take notes! ;)

DIAMOND JAMBOREE

If you’re an OC local, chances are you’ve driven past Diamond Jamboree numerous times… but have you ever stopped and explored? This bustling shopping center has a little bit of everything - from an extensive Korean grocery store, to sushi, ramen, ice cream, coffee shops, karaoke - and even an escape room!

While you really can’t go wrong with any of the Diamond Jamboree restaurants, we recommend trying Tim Ho Wan, an acclaimed Hong-Kong based Dim Sum institution that’s truly an experience. Ask the friendly servers for recommendations, or follow the picture-heavy menu for guidance, and get ready for a culinary adventure. Their Baked BBQ Pork Buns are a must (they’re even Michelin Star rated!), and their Deep Fried Spring Roll with Egg White and Shrimp had us fighting over the last bite. It’s a fun, casual, and interactive kind of place - and the perfect spot to try something new!

After dinner, take a short walk to SomiSomi, a Korean soft-serve shop that’s famous for its “Taiyaki” (a fish shaped waffle cone), and it's fun and unique soft serve flavors. Don’t be deterred if there’s a line, it’s well worth the wait. (And it’s the perfect excuse to let your dinner settle!)

Choosing can be touch with so many delicious options.

Always room for dessert! Somisomi is so good!

HIVE AND HONEY & THE IRVINE SPECTRUM

Did you know there’s a chic and stylish rooftop bar in Irvine? We didn’t either - until now! Hive and Honey might be one of the best kept secrets in Orange County… and while we love that it’s still relatively under-the-radar, we’d be remiss if we didn’t share it with you! Located in the Marriott Irvine Spectrum, we recommend arriving just in time to have a drink (and maybe an appetizer or two) and watch the sunset. Their skilled mixologists make some flavorful (and totally Instagrammable) cocktails, and the views simply can’t be beat!

Afterwards, hop on over to the Irvine Spectrum for dinner. We love TLT Food for tasty and creative Latin-fusion dining, and a welcoming and casual ambiance. Many of their dishes are shareable, and their street tacos are mouth-wateringly good!

If you’re not ready for the night to end, take a $5 ride on the Spectrum’s iconic Ferris Wheel! It’s surprisingly high, and the view at night is really something special. Plus, what’s more romantic than that?

Bobby enjoying the views and Alli the popcorn…

THE BUTCHER SHOP & YNK

Keeping with the “under the radar” theme, did you know that the Irvine Marriott has not one, but TWO hidden speakeasies? YNK (which stands for “You Never Know”), has an ever-changing travel theme, with rotating menus, videos, and decor every few months. It’s intimate, dimly-lit, and cozy… and it’s just our kind of place. Sit back, name a drink, and watch the talented bartender do their thing!

After you’ve enjoyed a round of specialty cocktails, have the bartender usher you through the kitchen, to The Butcher Shop, a speakeasy within a speakeasy! It’s open only on Friday and Saturday nights, and entry is reservation only, so be sure to plan accordingly. Cocktails are listed on the wall, but the friendly bartender will happily make you whatever kind of mixed drink you’re in the mood for. And we can guarantee it will most definitely be delicious. But shh… let’s keep this secret spot between us, ok?

The Butcher Shop is basically a speakeasy IN a speakeasy! You’re welcome.

Friends, don’t sleep on Irvine. There are so many restaurants, bars, and experiences that are absolutely worth your next date night out. And leave a comment and let us know if you have a favorite spot we’re missing - we’ll be sure to check it out!

Alli Talley

January 10, 2020

Babymoon, Mexico

Babymooning :: Paradisus Los Cabos Style

Alli Talley

January 10, 2020

Babymoon, Mexico

Alli here!

When people ask us about our name, we like to reply that we’ve been “honeymooning” since we got married. Whether it’s exotic trips to Europe or weekend staycations in Laguna Beach, every trip together is special to us. We’ve chosen a life of experiences over things, and we haven’t regretted it once! Since being pregnant, that mentality hasn’t changed - just the verbiage has! “Babymooning” has taken center stage these past few months, and it’s been a blast. We’ve taken the bump (or as we affectionately call it, “Boss #1), to France, Greece, Florida, Catalina Island, and Arizona. Each trip has been so special and unique in their own ways.

Couples are sometimes hesitant to book a babymoon, and we get it. Tight schedules, tight finances, a growing belly… but we’re BIG advocates for making it happen. We just returned from a babymoon at one of our favorite all-inclusives in Cabo (and one of our favorite places just in general), Paradisus Los Cabos, and we couldn't recommend it enough. No matter your travel style, we think you’d dig this kind of a babymoon. Here’s why:

CONSTANT PAMPERING

The further along you get in your pregnancy, the more you want to put your feet up. It’s a fact. As I’m nearing the end of my second trimester, my desire to relax has hit an all-time high.

From the moment we arrived at Paradisus Los Cabos I entered complete relaxation mode. Check in was a breeze and consisted of tropical mocktails and thoughtful snacks (splurge on Royal Service, their adults-only VIP experience - because let’s face it - your “adults only” days are numbered). We were introduced to our butler for the week, Octavio, who we could contact for just about anything our hearts desired. Octavio would make reservations for us, bring us ice, prep our bathtub, bring us pillows from their exclusive pillow menu, the list goes on… I tried to take Octavio home with us, but he politely declined. Not sure why.

We put on a few pounds while we were here.

EAT UP!

Food is clutch on a babymoon. I live in a constant state of hunger. And at Paradisus Los Cabos, you can eat whatever you want, whenever you want. With 12 restaurants and bars, and a fantastic 24-hour room service menu, it’s truly a pregnant mama’s dream. I’ve been craving chips and guacamole on the daily this pregnancy, and let me tell you, Paradisus makes some killer guac.

We’d alternate breakfasts at La Palapa and ordering room service, Gabi Beach became our go-to for tacos, and Tokimeku made me some pregnancy-safe sushi rolls that I’m still dreaming about. When it came to authentic and flavorful Mexican food, there’s nowhere better than Mole, their chic and contemporary Mexican restaurant.

Bobby would go back for the French toast

And one night we treated ourselves at Gastro Bar Signature dining, a romantic and glamorous culinary experience unlike anywhere else in Los Cabos. Their innovative team took notes of my dietary restrictions and came up with a special menu that was just as creative and flavorful as what Bobby was having… it was an evening we’ll never forget!

THREE WORDS: SWIM UP POOL

Nothing says “vacation” more than a swim up pool. Again, splurge on an adults-only Royal Service room, most specifically one with a swim up pool. It’s worth the extra cost to wake up in the morning, roll out of bed, and dip into the pool. Convenience is a very important buzz word on a babymoon, and what’s more convenient than that? If I wasn’t swimming around outside our room, I was reading baby books and working on my registry from our private balcony. It was hands-down my favorite spot to relax.

Breakfast in bed? We’ll do you one better…

UNLIMITED MOCKTAILS

The first thing most people think of when they hear the words “All-Inclusive” is unlimited drinks. And I don’t blame you, that’s what I think too! Prior to our trip I wondered if I’d be bummed by my alcohol restrictions, but I was SO pleasantly surprised. The Paradisus Los Cabos bartenders are pros at making creative mocktail concoctions - so much so, that I didn’t even feel like I was missing out! I almost always had a drink in hand, whether it be a virgin frozen mango margarita (my favorite), virgin mojitos, fresh juices, you name it. I even found Bobby sipping on my drinks when I wasn’t looking - they were that good! And I could have as many of them as I wanted.

DREAM LOCATION

Besides Cabo being a stunning backdrop for a babymoon, it’s also incredibly easy to get to. It was a quick 2-hour flight for us Southern California kids, which felt like nothing! We left for the airport and were in the pool with a drink in a matter of hours - when it comes to international travel, you can’t beat that! Their white, sandy beach is totally idyllic, and the sunset views from the resort took our breath away.

We also love where Paradisus Los Cabos is situated, right in the middle of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. You’re an easy twenty minute drive to both towns, making it the perfect in-between spot to explore both! (Which we highly suggest doing!)

If you’re looking to head out of the country for a pampering, easy, and worry-free babymoon, this is it. Paradisus Los Cabos was everything we’d hoped it would be and more. And we can’t wait to bring our little baby back with us again one day! (They have an amazing kids club… but more on that in a year or two.) ;)

Alli Talley

January 10, 2020

Mexico, Weekenders

Paradisus Los Cabos : An All-Inclusive With a Big Heart

Alli Talley

January 10, 2020

Mexico, Weekenders

These days it seems like our travel bucket list keeps growing, and time keeps moving faster… (How is it almost 2020?!) So you know we like a place when we keep coming back.

Paradisus Los Cabos is a luxurious all-inclusive resort destination located in between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. And we can’t get enough of it. We’ve been three times in the past three years (it opened in 2016), and you better believe we’re already anticipating our next trip. It’s that great.

There seems to be a stigma surrounding all-inclusives, that it’s a very manufactured, and “basic” experience. People often think that when you book a vacation at an all-inclusive, you’re giving into that cookie-cutter kind of travel. They think sure, you’ll relax by a pool and enjoy endless tacos and pina coladas, but you won’t actually get to really experience or understand the culture that you’re in.

We love the classic all-inclusive life, but Paradisus offers this and much more!

And while that may be the case for many all-inclusive resort properties, this couldn’t be farther from the truth when it comes to Paradisus Los Cabos. They’re taking small steps to make a big difference, and they’re paving the way for others to do the same. Here’s how:

“EMBRACE YOUR NATURE”

Just this November, Paradisus by Melia launched their new “Embrace Your Nature” campaign, highlighting the natural beauty and rich history of their many destinations. Their Paradisus Los Cabos property is one of the first to do so, with new cultural experiences and excursions for their guests to enjoy.

“Wait, so you can actually leave the property? I thought an all-inclusive meant you never leave the resort!”

Wrong! Paradisus encourages and promotes their guests to see and learn about the destination that they’re in. From sailing the Sea of Cortez to visiting organic farms, we saw a different, more authentic and personal side of Cabo than we’d ever seen before.

We tasted mezcal with a local expert at Acre Baja, and saw first-hand how this innovative restaurant and chic boutique hotel is aiding and giving back to the community. They even have a dog rescue program - and they’ve rescued over 120 so far!

We toured Flora Farms, a 25-acre organic working farm, complete with a restaurant, shops selling handmade goods, cooking classes, a spa, and more. They plant more than 100 varieties of vegetables and herbs, and Flora Farms now has a ranch that supplies humanely raised chicken, eggs, and pork for their restaurant, too! It’s the very definition of farm-to-table, and it’s beautiful!

We dined at Los Tamarindos, another organic farm and restaurant that’s located in a 19th century farmhouse, just one mile from the Sea of Cortez. The fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats we tried blew us away - it was a culinary journey we’ll never forget. And it’s all thanks to Paradisus!

Paradisus Los Cabos has plenty of ways to connect to the local culture on-property, too. One morning we helped set baby sea turtles into the ocean. They have over 500 sea turtle nests that their trained team protects and cares for. They educated us on how we can do our part to save these wonderful creatures, just by taking care of our environment! (Did you know that humans are their biggest predators due to oil spills, plastic debris, and habitat loss? We didn’t either.)

Learning about the turtles before we release them!

There’s also a store on the Paradisus Los Cabos property that’s dedicated to local artisan-made goods. Many of the items are handmade by Mexican women that have come from vulnerable communities, that are being helped by a non-profit organization called Proyecto Beatriz who is collaborating with Paradisus Los Cabos. The mirrors, bags, and accessories are not only chic and stylish, they’re also helping people. Talk about a win/win!

You may think you know what an all-inclusive is all about, but we encourage you to think again. Of course Paradisus Los Cabos has the luxurious amenities, stunning pools, delicious restaurants, and enchanting entertainment… but they’re also connecting their guests with the amazing people and resources that are just steps away. And that’s just one of the many reasons why we’ll keep coming back.

Alli Talley

January 7, 2020

Arizona, Weekenders, USA

This Arizona Town Will Take You By Surprise - Prescott, Arizona

Alli Talley

January 7, 2020

Arizona, Weekenders, USA

When you think of Arizona, what pops into your mind?

We’ve always associated Arizona with warm desert weather, the Grand Canyon, and Saguaro cacti… until now. A couple of weeks ago we road tripped to the small city of Prescott, Arizona, where we saw a new side of the shining Copper State.

Located in Yavapai County, Prescott is an easy hour and a half drive north of Phoenix and an hour and a half west of Sedona. Set at an elevation of 5,200, Prescott is surrounded by Ponderosa pine forests and boasts an average temperature of a cool 70 degrees. We were welcomed by crisp mountain air and rolling meadows, and we knew almost immediately that Prescott is a special place.

THE “TOWN”

The city of Prescott (pronounced “Presskit”) couldn’t be more charming. I (Alli) kept remarking that Prescott reminded me of a Hallmark Christmas movie, with a quaint town plaza and bustling main street. Prescott was once Arizona’s territorial capitol, so it’s full of historical landmarks and Wild West History - and it’s also home to the ”World’s Oldest Rodeo” (Which occurs around the 4th of July Weekend, and you better believe it’s added to our bucket list!)

There are historic saloons, local boutiques and shops, renowned restaurants (more on the food scene later), museums, and more lining the downtown. We spent an entire day shopping, eating, and leisurely exploring downtown Prescott, and we had a blast! Some must-visit spots include the Jersey Lilly Saloon for a drink at the bar, The Treat Center for an old-fashioned sweet treat, the Wild Iris Coffeehouse for an afternoon pick-me-up, and the famous Hassayampa Inn to warm up by their cozy fire.

Loving the Christmas vibes at Jersey Lilly Saloon.

Alli will always find the best candy shops

THE CULINARY SCENE

It’s impossible to go hungry in Prescott, with cute cafes and farm-to-table restaurants at nearly every turn. And if you’ve been following us for awhile, you know that good food is one of the first things we look for in a new destination! The Palace Restaurant and Saloon is arguably one of the most iconic in the area, as it dates back to 1877 - and it’s even been voted one of the 10 Most Historic Bars in America by USA Today! Don’t leave without trying the Palace Pulled Pork Sliders!

FARM Provisions serves fresh and organic fare that rotates seasonally, and utilizes local Arizona farmers and ranchers. It’s the perfect place to go for a healthy and hearty lunch or dinner, and they have extensive Vegan and Gluten Free menus too! (Alli had the Farm Vegan Tacos, and they were delicious!)

The Barley Hound is Prescott’s beloved gastropub, serving old-school classics like fried green tomatoes and flavorful burgers with a unique and creative twist. Their cocktails are undoubtedly some of the best in the area, our favorite being the Old Fashioned!

And no trip to Prescott is complete without breakfast at The Local, a true local favorite. Everything is made from scratch with local ingredients, and they serve breakfast all day long. Bobby still raves about their Broken Egg Sammie!

If only the walls could talk at the Palace Saloon!

STAY AT THE GRAND HIGHLAND HOTEL

We had the privilege of staying at the Grand Highland Hotel, a boutique gem on Prescott’s famed Whiskey Row. This 115 year old building is full of Prescott history, and the rooms incorporate old time charm with modern flair. We were obsessed! One of our favorite touches is that breakfast is included, and you can have it delivered to your room in the morning!

With a newly remodeled ground floor, the Grand Highland is also an incredible wedding venue with a stunning courtyard. Most importantly, the Grand Highland sits on Whiskey Row which is right on the town plaza. It’s the perfect location to explore downtown!

Excited to check in at the Grand Highland Hotel!

Our favorite part of the Grand Highland was the daily breakfast deliveries!

WATSON LAKE

Just four miles away from downtown Prescott is Watson Lake, a stunning reservoir that ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. The crystal clear water and the staggering rock formations make for one epic backdrop, and an ideal spot to hike, picnic, and explore! If you’re feeling extra adventurous, and the weather permits, we suggest renting a kayak to explore. That’s on our list for next time!

ARIZONA’S CHRISTMAS CITY

Probably our favorite fact is that Prescott is known for being “Arizona’s Christmas City” - and that’s reason enough for us to want to return! From the end of November through mid January there are light tours, parades, live music and performances, cultural experiences, free events, and the Whiskey Row Boot Drop on New Year’s Eve… and due to Prescott’s high elevation, chances are you’ll see some snowfall! It doesn’t get more magical than that! Go to visit-prescott.com/christmas for more information!

We completely fell for Prescott, and we think you will too. Next time you’re planning a roadtrip, or you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path kind of getaway, we highly suggest it. We can’t wait to return - preferably at Christmastime! Oh, and don’t forget your cowboy boots!!