Carpinteria Beach Cottages – My Charming 31-Night Stay
Have you ever dreamed of spending a full month by the California coast — soaking up the sunshine, exploring a charming walkable beach town, and truly settling into “slow travel” life?…
California
The Golden State’s famous big cities and off the beaten track gems
The Best Restaurants in Carpinteria according to my stomach
The next time you drive down California’s glorious coast, be sure to stop in at Santa Barbara’s less glamorous but equally beautiful little sister, Carpinteria! This small city of @15,000 is…
Malibu Day Trip: What to Do with Just an Afternoon
I had one free Sunday, a daughter in LA, and Malibu sitting roughly halfway between us. Here’s what we ate, what we saw, and where we could not park.
What to Do in Palo Alto: Best Things to Do, Eat, and Stay (Local Guide)
Palo Alto gets stereotyped as tech bros and Teslas, and yes, there are many Teslas. There is also a herd of donkeys, an Art Deco cinema showing double features for the price of a latte, and Silicon Valley’s actual birthplace in someone’s garage. I have lived here my whole life, so these are the places I really send people.
Why I Changed My Will After Visiting London Again – A Travel Memoir
What do a hot pink rickshaw, Big Ben, and a travel memoir have in common? Apparently, my Will. Here’s the story.
Is Alviso Worth Visiting? A Local’s Guide to This Curious San Jose Place
A quirky stop in San Jose with wildlife, old canneries, and flavor-packed food. Alviso is not what you expect and that is the best part.
Walmart vs Safeway: California Grocery Showdown
I compared the prices for 24 items at Walmart vs. Safeway. What do you think the results were? Check out this shocking post!
United Polaris Business Class Review: Is It Worth the Splurge?
I finally paid for the front of the plane: United Polaris from San Francisco to Rome. The lounge, the lie-flat bed, the Death Star salt shakers, and the math on whether it’s worth $7 per minute.
Los Gatos for Solo Female Travelers: Safe, Scenic & Worth It
Discover the best places to eat, shop, and explore in Los Gatos, California — from a solo female traveler’s perspective. Safe, scenic, and full of charm.
Dream Inn Review: The Only Santa Cruz Hotel Actually On the Beach
Thinking about the Dream Inn Santa Cruz? Here is my honest review after two nights on Cowell Beach, including the room categories, the real cost of parking, how it compares to La Bahia, and whether the view makes up for the sheets.
Best Things to do Alone in Los Angeles
Discover the best things to do alone in Los Angeles, from bookstores and museums to iconic landmarks. A solo travel guide with personal favorites, tips, and neighborhoods.
12 Fun and Unique Themed Restaurants in Los Angeles
Most LA restaurants will feed you. These twelve feed you while making you feel like you’ve wandered into someone else’s fever dream. Acrobats, a Michelin-starred jungle, and a hot dog stand where celebrities queue like everyone else.
