Category: USA

Destinations, New York, Packing Lists, Style, Travel, USA

Traveling Light: New York City Winter Packing List

Alyssa stands on a street in SoHo in a Swiss dot top, black pants, and black boots

This is the second NYC packing list in the history of this blog – the first was way back in the fall of 2017 when skinny jeans were de rigueur and my Vejas were brand new (wow, look how bright and clean they were!). While my style has shifted some over the years, my love …

Destinations, New York, Travel, USA

36 Hours in NYC: Lower Manhattan

Alyssa stands in a barricaded street in NYC

I can’t believe it’s been more than five years since I stepped foot in NYC (well, I guess given the events of the last few years I technically can believe it – but considering Michael and I used to visit the city two or three times a year, it still feels strange). A relatively inexpensive …

Charlotte, Destinations, Food, North Carolina, Restaurant Roundups and Reviews, Travel, USA

Charlotte Restaurant Review: Greenway Restaurant at CPCC

Exterior of the Greenway Restaurant in Charlotte

What you need to know to score a reservation to this well-kept secret fine dining experience (and psst… it’s only $15!).

Destinations, Packing Lists, Style, Texas, Travel, USA

Traveling Light: Austin, Texas Packing List

Alyssa stands in front of the Greetings from Austin Mural

Opening up my suitcase and sharing everything I packed for a weekend in Austin, Texas.

Charlotte, Destinations, North Carolina, Travel, USA

Day Trip Travel Guide: Albemarle, NC

Alyssa walks in front of a mural that reads "Greetings from Stanly Co." in Albemarle

I’m back with another regional guide! Today we’re visiting Albemarle, just one hour East of Charlotte. Stanly County, North Carolina, is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. As the home to Morrow Mountain State Park, Lake Tillery, and Uwharrie National Forest, this region offers so many different ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Locals know this and …

Charlotte, Destinations, North Carolina, Travel, USA

The Ultimate Day Trip Guide for Concord, North Carolina

Alyssa stands in front of Gibson Mill Market

Heading to Concord, North Carolina? Here is the ultimate day-trip guide, with all the best things to do and to eat, drink, and shop.

Destinations, Packing Lists, Style, Tennessee, Travel, USA

Traveling Light: Packing List for Johnson City, Tennessee

Alyssa wears a white sweater and black denim

Sharing my real-life packing list for a weekend in Northeast Tennessee, with activities ranging from hiking to biking to indulging in date-night dinners (and all packed in a carry-on!).

Destinations, Tennessee, Travel, USA

The Sweetest Winter Holiday Getaway Guide to Johnson City, Tennessee

View of the Johnson City sign with a garland-wrapped light pole next to it

Experiencing the sweetest holiday traditions in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains—and all of the local shops, restaurants, and activities that should be on your list!

Destinations, Tennessee, Travel, USA

Checking In: A Review of Carnegie Hotel in Johnson City, Tennessee

Alyssa is seen through a mirror in a hotel room

An honest review of Johnson City’s stunning boutique hotel and its restaurant, Wellington’s.