• Point Reyes and Stinson Beach: Cypress Tree Tunnel, French Toast At Stinson Beach, and Point Reyes Shipwreck
    Local Discoveries

    Coastal California Bliss: A Weekend Getaway to Point Reyes & Stinson Beach

    Point Reyes National Seashore is a perfect hideaway spot that many San Francisco Bay Area locals try to keep to themselves, but not these loose lips! 😊 An easy destination, just a bit over an hour’s car drive north of San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore invites you to unwind, recharge, and explore at leisure. During our first visit, we merely scratched the surface of it and are already planning a return trip over the weekend. And here’s why: Tomales Bay We started to explore Point Reyes National Seashore from Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay is worth spending at least a full day at, especially if you enjoy water activities. Swimming,…

  • "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada" sign during daytime
    Travel

    Las Vegas Off the Beaten Strip

    What is it like to live in Las Vegas as a local? Tourists flock to the Entertainment Capital of the World, bedazzled by the sparkling lights of Sin City, its promises of quick fortunes, and spectacular shows. We are no exception since it’s such an easy weekend getaway from the San Francisco Bay Area, just under a 1.5-hour flight, or under eight hours by car. We’ve done both, but never ventured off the Strip. So, enjoy this guest post by our friend Tom “Frilock” Tozier, who lived in Las Vegas for four years and is happy to share some of his favorite places in Las Vegas as a local!  I wouldn’t…

  • Bridge in Alum Rock Park, San Jose, California
    Local Discoveries

    Alum Rock Park: Outdoor Adventures in San Francisco Bay Area

    Alum Rock Park in San Jose, California is one of our recent outdoor adventures we’d love to share with you. Can’t believe we’ve lived in the SF Bay Area for years, and this was our first visit! Don’t make our mistake. If you are near San Jose and looking for a beautiful hike in a historical setting, Alum Rock Park is a great place to start. Alum Rock Park History and Curiosities Founded in 1872, Alum Rock Park is the oldest municipal park in the entire state of California! Modeled after European spa retreats, the park boasted close to 30 mineral hot springs, baths, pavilions, Tea House, and even a…

  • View of Kauai from a plane
    Travel

    Kauai — The Garden Isle of Hawaii (Part 1)

    Dreaming of Hawaii always conjures up images of sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and sipping Mai Tais out of coconut shells with little umbrellas. Though each island possesses the same endearing Hawaiian charm, their personalities are quite different. There is Oahu’s popular Waikiki beach and Honolulu’s nightlife, and big city energy. If you are in Maui, you can enjoy the lively little town of Lahaina and world class golfing. But Kauai, with its lush rain-forests and laid-back attitude, in our opinion, best fits the description of a tropical paradise. If you are debating which Hawaiian island to visit first, we recommend Kauai, the most beautiful island in Hawaii. After several…