The cities were really picturesque but it wasn’t till I explored outside of the towns that I was truly blown away by Saxony’s beauty. Impossibly green, rolling hills, wildflower fields and lazy rivers—I can see why Saxony is popular for it’s hiking, biking and outdoor pursuits. The Bastei Rocks was a particular highlight.
Live like a Local: Saxony, Germany
USTOA’s Travel Together Series hosted by Kelley Ferro
We visited several of Saxony’s cities and each had it’s own personality. Dresden, the capital was historic and beautiful. Leipzig was young, hip and artsy and Gorlitz was charming and quaint. Experience Saxony’s cities with us.
Giant steins of beer, massive pretzels and pork knuckles the size of your head–Saxony has the large German beer garden fare. However, Saxony also has fine dining, with Michelin-starred restaurants and fine German rieslings. We sampled a little bit of all to discover Saxony’s food culture.
This artistic, historic and stunningly beautiful Free State of Germany offers so much to see, do & eat in such a small area. From the Porsche factory to the Bastei Rocks, to the home of the nutcracker, Saxony surprised me at every turn
Find your magic in Morocco! Expedia believes that travel can transform people in unexpected ways. So we teamed up with the National Film Festival for Talented Youth (NFFTY) and travel blogger Kelley Ferro to find her magic in one of the most movie-like destinations in the world, Morocco.
July Fourth is one of my favorite holidays (#2 on the list to be exact.) I mean, what’s not to love about a holiday that a). includes a day off from work, b.) involves hanging out all day with friends & family, c.) every American, regardless of religion, can participate and d.) promotes barbecues, cocktails and being outside. To me, it also marks that it is full blown SUMMER season. Oh, and Fireworks are just a cherry on top.
As an LA transplant, I scoured this little town for the best goings on this Fourth of July. Take your pick.
1. In a Pool
This partyparty pool at Mondrian will definitely make your Fourth one to remember (albeit hazily). The Skybar is hosting all day DJs, cocktails, fun pool floaties and jaw dropping LA views–what’s not to love? Tickets are reasonable at $25 and available here. I was sold by the photos of their recent Memorial Day party.
2. On the Water
Hit up Marina del Rey’s Burton Chace Park, make a reservation at a waterfront restaurant or find a friend with boat. You won’t get better sunset or fireworks views and as the nearest host of the fireworks on the beach, the atmosphere will be festive to say the least. If you are going the picnic in the park route, get there EARLY. Spots are usually filled by 6pm for the 9pm fireworks.
Whiskey Red’s, located right along the scenic marina, is hosting a buffet barbecue and reservations are being taken now for patio ($62.95) or indoor seating (52.95)–but come on people, you want the patio.
3. On a Roof
High, the rooftop of Venice’s funky hotel gives you unobstructed views of the fireworks, the sunset and the pretty people that are sitting at the tables next to you. A table reservation gets you 2 beers, a cocktail, a gourmet sausage and DJ to complete the perfect summer evening. What’s more American than that?
4. On a Boat
The Queen Mary is welcoming revelers on board for a day filled of events–from a circus to a Great Gatsby party, each decade from the 1940s will be represented, letting attendees party through the ages. The ticket gets you on board and access to the events, plus prime viewing of the Long Beach fireworks from the deck. Purchase your tickets here for a hefty discount ($26 vs $44 on their website).
USTOA Live Like a Local
The streets of Cartagena are filled with crafts and local treasures, it’s easy to get your shopping on. Don’t miss Las Bovedas–a former prison that is now converted into shops with local crafts, souvenirs coffees and more.
You have the vibrant city of Lima, the bright green, snow capped Andes, the desert plains of the Nazca Lines, the Amazon and of course, Machu Picchu. Peru has so many different sides, I needed more time to experience them all. Here’s a glimpse into my time in Peru.
If you want to travel in style, Travcoa, the luxury tour operator is for you. Every detail is planned out so you can just focus on enjoying the best food, sumptuous hotels, easy transportation and the best access to all of Peru’s gems.
Home to ancient history, local indigenous communities, and so much art & culture, the Andes are a must on your visit to Peru.
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