Pat Bailey

The pool beckons at Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

Fairmont Orchid Review

The open-air lobby at the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island opens up to a world whispering past the first-impression space, it invites you gently beyond. 

This property is very different from the Fairmont Kea Lani, but they feel related in some ways.

First Impressions of the Fairmont Orchid

Fairmont Orchid sits on 32 acres of oceanfront, lush, tropical gardens perfectly placed on the majestic Kohala Coast. 10,000 square feet of this luxurious hotel is taken up by the centrepiece pool which competes for attention from the ocean and the small bay just beyond it.

The hotel’s grand lobby opens up to an outdoor space that extends the hard floors into soft grass and winding paths with tropical trees and bushes that invite you to wander.

Wandering leads you to a hidden coy pond and waterfalls, the Spa Without Walls, the Hui Holokai Beach Club, to the property’s restaurants, the golf course and tennis pavilion and more.

There is a peaceful quiet on this property and island that can be felt deeply when you visit and this seems to have been honoured in the design of this hotel and the experience that it offers to guests.

Beautiful plush bedding and plenty of space in our suite at the Fairmont Orchid. | © Pat Bailey

Fairmont Fit goodies waiting on check in at Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

Fairmont Gold Experience

There are 540 guest rooms and suites at the resort, along with the exclusive Fairmont Gold concierge floor which is where I stayed. This floor offers an exclusive lifestyle hotel experience with a private floor of rooms in the North Tower of the hotel.

There are 45 luxurious guest rooms and suites on the floor, each with a beautiful view of the ocean or waterfall gardens.

Guests enjoy private access to the Gold Lounge which provides a nice place to relax, enjoy a deluxe breakfast, high tea or evening canapés.

I was greeted with my Fairmont Fit package waiting for me on my bed in my room when I checked in.

My generous king-sized room with a balcony overlooking the golf course and ocean was luxurious and comfortable.

Related: A Healthy Stay at Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

Sunrise over the pool at Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

The Beach Club at Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

Dining at the Fairmont Orchid

There is ample dining at the hotel and that leaves you not wanting to venture too far either. There are eight dining options on the Fairmont Orchid property, eight.

Everything from the AAA Four Diamond award-winning Brown’s Beach House, to a more casual experience at Hale Kai can be found here. 

I enjoyed the incredible breakfast buffet at Orchard Court each morning, you will have a hard time deciding between many delicious options.

The Luana Lounge, Brown’s Deli and the Kahakai Bar are options for light fare, Kona Coffee and cocktails to suit your mood and time of day. Each with their own ambience and view of the grounds and the ocean.

Treats at the incredible breakfast buffet at Orchard Court. | © Pat Bailey]

Lantern lit dinner at the award-winning Brown’s Beach House. | © Pat Bailey

I delighted in a beautiful meal at the brand-new, newly renovated Binchotan Bar & Grill restaurant and I highly recommend it for dinner.

This new concept is serving in a modern robatayaki or fireside cooking style and what makes this dinner extra special is that everything is grilled over premium binchotan which is white charcoal.

The menu consists of locally sourced seafood, meats and vegetables all grilled with this added rich flavour for a unique and authentic experience.

Related: Unique Places to Eat in Chicago

Each spa ocean front “hale” is nestled in its natural environment. | © Pat Bailey

Spa Without Walls

The Spa Without Walls at Fairmont Orchid is a unique open-air experience. As the name suggests the spa spans beyond the walls of the hotel and into the gardens and beyond. This connects it to the sights, sounds and energy of the island instantly and this connection is pulled into the spa experience and space.

For me, this experience was also symbolic of the limitless healing potential too – a spa without walls offers an infinite amount of healing, and this one felt as though it did.

Each oceanfront “hale” or hut is nestled in its natural environment, mine was perched above one of the waterfalls on the property and this provided an absolute dreamy soundtrack for my massage.

This award-winning spa boasts eight private outdoor waterfall hale, six rejuvenating oceanside hale, four indoor treatment rooms, a sauna and a steam room. 

I loved how I was led to an outdoor garden area to wait for my treatment to begin. In this space, I saw the most beautiful red and yellow finch-like birds who seemed so busy and happy.

The walls of this space are made of lush trees, bushes and other natural island flora for privacy, but the wall-less feeling prevails and it invites you to drop yours too. My massage was absolutely perfect and I enjoyed the sauna and steam room afterwards.

Related: The Ultimate Local’s Guide to San Francisco

Snorkelling at a black beach on Hawaii’s Big Island. | © Pat Bailey

Exploring the property at Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

Activities on Hawaii’s Big Island

Try Your Hand at Basket Weaving

You can enjoy a private hula and basket weaving class at Fairmont Orchid, part of their initiative to incorporate the local culture into each guest’s experience.

Learn the popular local dance from a Hawaiian and learn how to weave your own basket using coconut fronds.

Sunset canoe fun during our stay at the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

Take a Sunset Canoe Voyage

My very favourite activity was the nightly Sunset Canoe Voyage. This activity is offered exclusively for hotel guests and it is one of the most popular events.

Guests embark at sunset with a Hui Holokai Ambassador by paddling a traditional Hawaiian canoe and learning the history of the Hawaiian method of transportation with the islands. 

I paddled out in a group into the sunset, watching it melting onto the horizon, and it was so beautiful and peaceful. Our Ambassador shared a traditional Hawaiian sunset ritual with us. Then, we paddled back and as we neared the shore we were welcomed with a conch horn and local song performed by a sweet Hawaiian couple that is part of the Fairmont team.

They share Hawaiian history, customs and culture with guests. This was a really beautiful experience.

Watersports at the Hui Holokai Beach Shack

The Hui Holokai Beach Shack at Fairmont Orchid provides all types of water sports equipment for rent and use in the property’s bay.  There are daily activities and classes available at this hotel as well, reservations can be made with the concierge during or before your stay.

SUP Yoga

Every morning in the bay of Fairmont Orchid’s Hui Holokai Beach you can participate in Floating Yoga with the local instructor and provided boards. 

The class, for all levels, is an hour-long and happens just after sunrise when the water is calm and the hotel is quiet. It is the perfect way to start each day.

Related: Yoga Inversions for Beginners: A Step by Step Guide

Flow while you float with an SUP yoga class at Fairmont Orchid on Hawaii’s Big Island. | © Pat Bailey

Sometimes you return from a vacation and feel like you need a vacation, not this time. This stay with Fairmont was the perfect blend of wellness and fitness mixed with authentic cultural activities and plenty of time to enjoy the pace of this island destination.

I returned feeling inspired, full of energy and with a whole new appreciation for Hawaii, its people and the culture.

The Fit Traveller was a guest of Fairmont Hotels for this trip to Hawaii. As always, the words, images, and opinions are authentically our own.

Fairmont Orchid

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Sunset over the bay at Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/

Pat Bailey | Cover © Pacific Dream Photography

Sunrise from the balcony at Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui | © Pat Bailey

Where to Stay in Maui

Fairmont Kea Lani

The welcome at Fairmont Kea Lani is grand. When you arrive you walk into an expansive open-air lobby that is grandiose in every way. From the first step, you can look straight through the lobby and beyond and almost see the ocean.

The horizon beckons you, and the sounds beyond the lobby pull you in the direction of the two pools, the property’s beach, coy pond, lounge areas, meandering paths, garden, and all that the property is. It is a big welcome that comes quickly.

It feels so good to be there.

Ocean View Suite

My Ocean View Suite was a luxurious space with a cozy seating area and desk in one half of the room, and a beautiful king-sized bed with generous bathroom on the other side.

The balcony overlooking the pool and with a perfect view of the ocean spanned the full length of the suite and provided plenty of space to sunbathe and enjoy morning yoga as well as in-room dining.

It was the perfect spot to enjoy a nightcap in the fresh air before bed too.

Related: A Local’s Guide to San Francisco

Our suite at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui. | © Pat Bailey

The gorgeous and generous bathroom at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui. | © Pat Bailey

Fairmont Fit

A “Fairmont Fit” Membership meant I was given extra fitness goodies to use during my stay, including a workout outfit, running shoes, and in-room fitness equipment such as a yoga mat, props, resistance training equipment, rollers, and other fun gadgets for stretching and moving on your own.

The Reebok clothes and shoes are both on loan, hoping to inspire guests to maintain their fit lifestyle while travelling.

Of course, if you fall in love with the gear, you can purchase your own on check out.

It was brilliant not to have to bring workout clothes and shoes and to have that extra space in my luggage for other things like gifts to bring back to friends and family.

Related: Lojel Cubo Luggage Review

Fairmont Fit provides guests with clothing and shoes on loan to encourage them to stay active during their visit. | © Pat Bailey

The large living space in the suite at Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui. | © Pat Bailey

Exploring this property you will find two pools; one adult-only pool which is more secluded, and a family pool which is centrally located and surrounded by gardens.

Further wandering will bring you to cabanas, restaurants, bars, a gourmet bakery, pool slide and beach beyond.

In addition, the property also hosts the Willow Stream Spa, a luxury spa with traditional Hawaiian treatments as well as a small market with an ice cream shop.

An inviting space for relaxation in the gardens at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui. | © Pat Bailey

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The adult pool at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

The family pool at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui. | © Pat Bailey

Feasting at Fairmont Kea Lani

With four unique restaurants, four bars, a gourmet bakery, and a small market on the Fairmont Kea Lani property I found plenty to appease my appetite and enough variety to feel no need to venture beyond the hotel for dining options.

Breakfast on the balcony at the Fairmont Kea Lani. | © Pat Bailey

Fairmont Fit kit and some fresh tropical fruit to set up for the day. | © Pat Bailey

Begin your mornings feasting on the enormous buffet at the Kea Lani Restaurant, enjoy an open-air lunch or happy hour at AMA Bar & Grill which offers a taste of traditional Hawaiian dishes with a modern influence.

Dishes range from poke bowls to seared ahi and many others with fresh and local ingredients. You can order freshly squeezed juices here in the morning and do a swim-up lunch too!

If a quick coffee, lunch on the go, or an afternoon treat is on your list, Caffe Ciao Bakery and Market is perfect.

I found healthy snacks here, and also treated myself to an ice cream one afternoon. The market is a great place to grab local Hawaiian gifts to take back to friends and family.

I enjoyed a welcome happy hour at Luana, the beautiful open-air area located directly off the lobby which included a glass of bubbles and an incredible assortment of fresh, healthy, and delicious tapas. It was the perfect way to surrender into the island vibe.

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Happy hour at Fairmont Kea Lani. | © Pat Bailey

Ko

Book a beautiful dinner at Kõ, named Maui’s Restaurant of the Year, where you will find a unique global menu influenced by Hawaiian, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, Korean and Japanese flavours.  90% of the ingredients that Chef Pang uses to create each dish are locally sourced from the island and you can taste this in each dish.  You will have a hard time deciding, the menu is incredible and everything is delicious. Be sure to ask for a table on the terrace for the perfect sunset view. 

Nick’s Fishmarket

The second mouth-watering experience can be had at Nick’s Fishmarket, awarded “Best Service,” and Best Wine List” by the Maui ‘Aipono Awards. Nick’s is Maui’s premier seafood restaurant and a dining experience you will remember for a long time. Choose between the freshly caught fish of the day, prime cuts of meat, or delicious homemade pasta; everything is delicious. 

The wine list and cocktail menu is something to get happily lost in and be sure to order the Strawberry Dessert which is more of an experience than a dessert and the highlight of the dinner. Nick and his staff are indeed the best, and you will have an unforgettable time.

Fairmont Maui Spa – The Willow Steam Spa

The treatment at the Fairmont Maui Spa, tbe Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Kea Lani was one of the best spa experiences of my life. I enjoyed a traditional Hawaiian Pa’akai which was a beautiful, natural and full sensory body scrub and shower treatment. Traditionally Pa’akai, meaning “sea salt” in Hawaiian was gathered from dry pools along the island’s coastlines. Hawaiian sea salt contains more than 80 different minerals and is considered to be one of the three most mineral-rich salts in the world.

This treatment takes place on a floating table, the table with floating mattress of water is warmed and creates a sensation of floating or weightlessness. The body scrub with healing sea salt is applied with a mixture of organic coconut oil and locally grown green papaya and lemongrass – it smelled and felt incredible. 

Once the scrub is applied, the body is wrapped and given a dose of infra-red light therapy which feels like a mini sauna. The rinse comes in the way of a full-body shower using a state-of-the-art Vichy shower. 

The treatment is finished with one final application of rich Hawaiian coconut oil and the bliss that ensues lasts for hours, not to mention how smooth and hydrated my skin felt. 

I highly recommend this treatment, it is not only a big splurge, but it is also a beautifully authentic Hawaiian healing.

Related: Fairmont Hotel Singapore

Ancil starting the tour at O’o Farm, Maui. | © Pat Bailey

Activities to Do in Maui

Take a Gourmet Farm Tour

One of my very favourite things about this trip was the visit to O’o Farm and our “Seed to Cup” Gourmet Breakfast Tour. This was a unique and authentic Maui experience that I cannot recommend highly enough. You have two choices for visiting tours to this farm, the breakfast tour, and the lunch tour. Both tours end with a meal that you actually witness being made from the items you learn about on the tour. O’o Farm is located in the forest of Waipoli in Upcountry Maui, its location provides the perfect terroir for growing artesian coffee and for an incredible panoramic view of the island of Maui. Lean on the Fairmont Kea Lani concierge for help organising and booking this tour. 

The beautiful O’o Farm on Maui, Hawaii. | © Pat Bailey

Our tour was led by Ancil Clancey, the farm’s General Manager, coffee grower, and impressive all-around farm and coffee expert. Ancil has been a member of the O’o Farm for a decade and he has spent his life learning.  He holds a unique and rare distinction in the coffee world called “Q,” from CQI, which is significant and akin to being a sommelier in the wine world. He graduated with a degree in agriculture when he was 17, he is full of knowledge and a great guide and asset to the farm and this experience. 

We toured the acres of coffee grown here along with all of the fruits and vegetables are grown on the farm, everything is harvested and shared with a few local restaurants that they help to source these items to. The coffee tasting was a highlight of the tour and something you can do independently from breakfast or lunch. We learned the proper way to taste coffee from Ancil, along with the process he manages with O’o Farm Coffee.

There is a gift shop on the farm where you can purchase this high-quality and limited production Maui-grown coffee, and the tour ends with a beautiful farm-to-table breakfast. The breakfast, cooked in an open wood oven is made by the farm’s chef and highlights all of the farm’s most seasonal offerings on the day of your tour.  I suggest you wear comfortable walking shoes that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty for this experience.

Related: 48 Hours in Palm Springs

Paddock to plate dishes at O’o Farm, Maui. | © Pat Bailey

Tasting the wonders of O’o Farm, Maui. | © Pat Bailey

Lei Po’o Making Class

A Lei Po’o is a traditional Hawaiian adornment that is worn around the head like a crown. These crowns are often worn by hula dancers, and they are made from tropical flowers and other island foliage. 

This class was led by a local Hawaiian woman with expertise in making the special lei. I enjoyed a Lei Po’o making class at Fairmont Kea Lani during my stay.

Related: The Lake Agnes Tea House Hike in the Canadian Rockies

Pat admiring the stunning scenery during her hike on Maui. | © Pat Bailey

Hike the King’s Coastal Trail

Maui is a hiker’s dream. We hiked the King’s Coastal Trail which is a short drive from the hotel. It is a beautiful morning activity to do before breakfast and the heat of the day. 

The hike meanders along the coast providing views of contrasting lava juxtaposed with the lush green of the hills in the distance, all set to the backdrop of the ocean and sister islands in the distance. 

The hike is an easy out-and-back hike, and you might encounter surprise goats and other island wildlife along the way. Bring your camera if you can, there are great opportunities to capture the varying landscape.

Kiakahi Functional Fitness, a Polynesian strength training using ancient movements, techniques, and traditions is a must-try while at the hotel too and there are ocean activities aplenty available for guests too. 

The Fit Traveller was a guest of Fairmont Hotels for this trip to Hawaii. As always, our words, opinions, and images are authentically our own.

The craggy King’s coastal hike on Maui | © Pat Bailey

Fairmont Kea Lani 

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Hawaii offers a beautiful place to unwind, relax and get in touch with nature. | © Pat Bailey

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/

Pat Bailey

Palm Springs has seen a revitalisation and is now on the rise as a wellness destination, easily accessible from LA. Image © Pat Bailey

48 Hours in Palm Springs

A beautiful oasis on the edge of Coachella Valley in the Colorado Desert, Palm Springs is making a very cool comeback. New hotels and familiar properties with face lifted facades, farm-to-table restaurants, vintage boutiques and the revitalisation of the downtown scene has sparked a resurgence of visitors, putting Palm Springs firmly back on the map. With a strong focus on wellness, it is also on the rise as a go-to destination for a healthy weekend getaway for the LA and San Diego set.

Instagram-ready moments around every corner (and pool) in Palm Springs, California.

How to Get to Palm Springs

Getting to Palm Springs is easy from any direction. Palm Springs International Airport is the closest airport to Palm Springs (downtown). But, flying into Los Angeles and driving from LA to Palm Springs (just under 2 hours) or even taking a road trip from San Francisco to Palm Springs (7.5 hours) are fun options too. It is easy to navigate to Palm Springs. Hire a car (search car rental deals) if you are planning to adventure beyond the city limits.

Related: A Weekend Getaway in Arizona

The Monkey Tree Hotel is an institution in Palm Springs. Join the long list of celebrities who have stayed here over the decades. Image © Pat Bailey

Where to Stay in Palm Springs

The Monkey Tree Hotel | Check Prices

On the list of things I love about Palm Springs is how devoted the locals are to maintaining the culture and iconic identity of this desert oasis. Gary and Kathleen Friedle are a perfect example of that. They have lovingly restored The Monkey Tree Hotel which was originally designed in 1960 by Albert Frey. 

This 16-room boutique hotel, with an incredible list of famous guests such as Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Gilda Radner and Gene Wilder, Eric Clapton, the Beatles (except for Paul), Bob Hope, Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn, and even a JFK and Marilyn Monroe rendezvous (guarded at the private entrance of their suite by the secret service), is quintessential Palm Springs.

Pat relaxes in the Jungle Suite at the Monkey Tree Hotel, Palm Springs. Image © Pat Bailey

The retro-cool Monkey Tree Hotel in Palm Springs. Image © Pat Bailey

The Friedle’s re-opened the vintage boutique hotel in 2016 and they can be found on property daily. Kathleen has made it her passion project to source authentic furnishings for the entire mid-century modern design property which are eclectic and on-period right down to every detail. Gary spends every morning in the properties commercial kitchen creating a special day-of breakfast for guests. I was asked when I made my reservation if I had any food allergies or restrictions and Gary created special vegetarian options for me based on my response. Breakfast is served daily in the community room and is self-serve, it is a great way to meet other guests and feel at-home instantly.  I quickly became addicted to Gary’s pastries and I even enjoyed taking my breakfast back to my room one of the days I stayed and guests can also enjoy breakfast by the pool.

The open air lobby at Monkey Tree Hotel, Palm Springs. Image © Pat Bailey

It is obvious as soon as you pull up to the façade and walk into the open-air communal courtyard of this vintage property that you have stepped back in time and that you are walking into a postcard.  Every bit of this dream property is well maintained and perfectly pristine, the thoughtfully designed rooms open up to this common space with the pièce de résistance pool in the center. Fluffy top palm trees guide your eyes up and out of the courtyard where you can follow the edge of the San Jacinto Mountains on the horizon which provide the most incredible backdrop for this property. 

I was told that Mr. Frey took the mountain range into account when originally designing the layout of the hotel by creating the dramatic slanting roof lines to be in harmony with the mountains. He tracked the sun during the day to determine the best site placement for the property and situated the courtyard to maximise the views of this inspiring backdrop while sitting by the pool. This thoughtfulness is obvious when you are standing in the heart of the common area during your stay, the reward is a golden pink sunrise over the mountains in the morning, soft toned sunsets at the end of each day and an umbrella of stars over the courtyard each night.

Related: 48 Hours in LA: Where to Stay, Eat and Explore

Every design detail is lovingly thought out at the Monkey Tree Hotel. Image © Pat Bailey

In addition to the daily house made breakfast, The Monkey Tree Hotel offers resort-like amenities to guests. You can enjoy complimentary soft drinks and snacks during the day while you dip in the heated salt water swimming pool or swim laps in the tether exercise lap pool, along with happy hour drinks and even a Scandinavian Spa with whirlpool, sauna and cold plunge pool. Massages, gym passes, meal delivery and even a butler service can be scheduled with the front desk as the property has cultivated many relationships with other local businesses to make adding these experiences to your stay easy.

Common area for breakfast at the cosy Monkey Tree Hotel, Palm Springs. Image © Pat Bailey

Choose from the Standard or Deluxe King or Queen Rooms or splurge and stay in the Presidential Suite or Jungle Room. I loved my stay in the Jungle Room, 465 square feet of jungle-inspired vintage décor right down to the leopard print walls, pillows and carpet. I was happily lost in the California king-size bed and found the extra seating area and private courtyard with lounging to be a dream too. But, my very favourite part of this room, and perhaps Eric Clapton’s too because this room was his preferred, was the light-filled, original bathroom with walk-in shower and floor to ceiling glass windows.

Related: The Ultimate Local’s Guide to San Francisco

The Parker hotel Palm Springs showcases a beautifully curated collection of art and design. Image © Pat Bailey

The Parker Palm Springs | Check Prices

For a luxurious getaway in the desert you can’t go past Parker Palm Springs. This immaculate five-star property invites you into the world of Jonathan Adler and you cannot help but feel like a fashionable accessory to the picture perfect pages of his expression of this decadent home away from home. 

The first page is a welcome into the main space with lobby and cozy common areas that include Mr. Parker, one of the best reservations in Palm Springs, Norma’s the perfect spot for breakfast and lunch, an intimate lobby “mini bar” and a handful of perfectly decorated seating areas that will have you coveting every bit of hand-picked vintage and repurposed décor.

The Parker Palm Springs is a 5 star oasis in the desert. Image © Pat Bailey

Wander the grounds with a whimsical feeling as they invite you to get lost in the tall grass and lush greenery that surrounds pathways leading to secret areas gifting you hammocks and fountains and art around every corner. You can even find a game of Pétanque here and if tennis is your game of choice you’ll be happy to learn that there is a tennis court on the property. Make your way to the three pools during your stay, but be sure to find the Gene Autry Pool where you will find a lemonade bar and larger than life chess board, it is one of the best spots to relax in all of Palm Springs.

The rooms, villas and suites, each with their own name and personality are decadence personified.  Adler has treated the entire property as if it were his own home, a passion project, and you feel this passion and attention-to-detail in every bit of space you experience during your stay.  No two rooms are alike.

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La Quinta combines luxury with incredible facilities for golfing and sports enthusiasts. Image © 2018 Hilton

La Quinta Palm Springs | Check Prices

If you are a keen golfer, I highly recommend a stay or visit to La Quinta Resort and Club, a beautiful 5-star Palm Springs luxury resort with plenty of space and five (yes, five) drool worthy championship courses that any golfer will find to be absolute perfection.

La Quinta is designed to provide guests with a full experience and very little need to leave the property. In addition to the abundance of golf, the property offers seven unique dining options ranging from comfort food, course and court side fare to casual and fine dining options. Each experience is unique with a property backdrop to match and I always love the variety when I stay on or visit this property. 

Voted one of the top tennis resorts in the world, you can enjoy tennis and pickleball at La Quinta.  The resort has been host to Novak Djokovic and Maria Sharapova to name a few famed players, and you can enjoy a full game on your own or tennis lessons led by a team of certified instructors. Daily yoga is taught on property as well, I’ve enjoyed group classes and privates in my room during my stays.

Indulge in the on site spa with a full menu of body treatments, skin care and wellness rituals such as the Glistening Agave Body Glaze or a massage menu inspired by various places in the world including a traditional Thai Massage or Hawaiian Lomi Lomi. The spa also includes a full service salon which includes nail and hair care as well as makeup.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the Mountain Station is a must when visiting the area. Image © Pat Bailey

What to Do in Palm Springs

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

I’ve been to Palm Springs more times than I can count but I had never visited the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway before this trip, and I cannot believe what I was missing. Not only is the ride up the tramway incredible and unique, but the hiking at the top is worth a day trip. This tramcar is the world’s largest, and it provides each rider breathtaking panoramic views as it rotates the full ten minutes while climbing 2,643 feet above the desert valley. Guests stand along the perimeter of the tramcar while peering out. If you get a little motion sick, you can take a padded seat in the middle which I did on the way down.

The Mountain Station lives at 8,516 feet and is open every day for visitors. The view from this station is incredible and the temperatures are at least 30-40 degrees cooler than below so this is a great spot for a desert reprieve.

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Beautiful shapes captured during a sunset jeep tour. Image © Pat Bailey

Hiking in Palm Springs

There are over 50 miles (80 kms) of hiking trails from the Mountain Station location, with plenty of local guides that can lead you if you are feeling ambitious after your trip up the tramway with many other trails in the area too. Simply organise a guide or self-guided maps through your hotel.

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A stargazing Jeep Tour really is a unique way to see Palm Springs and surrounds. Image © Pat Bailey

Take a Stargazing Jeep Tour

Undeniably the very best part about a desert visit are the sunrises and sunsets, there are few things more beautiful than a Palm Springs sunset. I highly recommend the Red Jeep San Andreas Fault Night Watch and Stargazing Jeep Tour to take full advantage of a desert sunset while you are visiting Palm Springs.  Witness the transition from day to night by 4WD adventure that ends with incredible stargazing. 

Our Jeep ride meandered along the Palm Oasis of the San Andreas Fault Zone where we explored, with our highly informative local guide, spectacular box and slot canyons, ancient fossil beds and a labyrinth of geological cuts and canyons of this area.  We traveled to a private 800+ acre preserve on the Fault where we gazed at stars and planets led by a local expert who shared his knowledge and telescope with us.  We each took turns peering into the telescope and witnessing far away moons and planets – this was a highlight of the visit for me.

Our jeep awaits in the afternoon light in the Palm Springs desert. Image © Pat Bailey

Enjoy a Spa Day in Palm Springs

I enjoyed a day at the Elements Spa at Hilton Palm Springs my last day in the desert. This spa, open to the public, has a menu of treatments and splurges so indulgent you will have a hard time deciding. The nine unique treatment rooms invite guests to explore each of the elements and tease your senses with a full mind, body and spirit experience. I enjoyed a hot soak to start and a full body scrub and massage which was a divine grand finale for my week in Palm Springs. Don’t miss the eucalyptus infused steam room and the Swiss shower.

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Stop in at Kreem for some incredible vegan ice cream in Palm Springs. Image © Pat Bailey

Healthy Restaurants in Palm Springs

Watercress Vietnamese Bistro

With a focus on healthy food choices, I made sure to try a few new places this trip. I enjoyed a beautiful dinner at Watercress Vietnamese Bistro, where I feasted on vegetarian dishes that were delicious and the perfect fresh, and healthy option for the desert heat. The Summer Rolls were not only yummy, but beautiful and I highly recommend the Shredded Cabbage Salad. Don’t let the heat deter you from sitting outside on the patio, there was a cool breeze the night I visited and it was nice to be in the fresh air people watching during dinner.

Kreem

Run, don’t walk to Kreem in Palm Springs, an artisanal ice cream and coffee café. This vegan friendly shop offers many coconut based ice creams and all natural seasonal sorbets, they also make their own almond milk. Rosemary, Lemon Poppyseed, Honey Soaked Cherries, and Basil Lavender to name a few.  Stay in or dare the outside temps which will challenge you to eat it as fast as you can before it melts. 

Cheeky’s is a must for farm to fork fare in Palm Springs. Image © Pat Bailey

Cheeky’s

No visit to Palm Springs in complete without breakfast at Cheeky’s Palm Springs, it is by far the most popular breakfast and lunch spot in the desert. I always enjoy a table outside and feast on the farm to table comfort food. Beware, the portions are large enough to share unless you are brunching and rolling two meals into one. Cheeky’s is perfectly situated downtown for a nice walk in any direction to enjoy window shopping or a pop in to the art museum.

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Cycling through the San Andreas Fault zone. Image © Pat Bailey

Peaceful desert cycling in Palm Springs. Image © Pat Bailey

How to Stay Active in Palm Springs

Cycle Through the San Andreas Fault Zone

With the flat forever roads and vast space for activities there is plenty to do to stay active in Palm Springs. One of the best outdoor activities I did on this trip was The Earthquake Canyon Express Bicycle Tour with Big Wheel Tours, a 4-hour geologic adventure that includes a 20-mile bike ride that descends through the heart of the San Andreas Fault zone on a paved road to the heart of grape country near Mecca. The route is straight-forward and quiet with very little traffic and makes for an easy pedal and a beautiful day of exploring by bike. 

Cycling adventures in the desert outside Palm Springs, California. Image © Pat Bailey

The route takes riders from the transition zone between the Colorado and Mojave Desert, it winds its way through the narrow canyon walls of Box Canyon and finishes with spectacular views of the Salton Sea, Mt. San Jacinto, the All-American Canal, and the agriculture of the eastern Coachella Valley.  We literally rode from dry desert canyons through lush green farm oasis’ and crops ranging from citrus to table grapes, finishing our ride with a visit to the Oasis Date Gardens for a date shake and date tasting. The date shake was another first for me and I could not believe how delicious it was; it was the absolute perfect reward for an adventurous day on the bike.

Horseback riding is a unique way to explore the beautiful Indian Canyons. Image © Pat Bailey

Horseback Riding through Indian Canyons

I traded in my bike for a horse for another beautiful, authentic desert activity. This perfect early morning activity, was a visit to Smoke Tree Stables for a horseback ride through Indian Canyons.  The stables trailer the horses into beautiful Indian Canyons and riders jump on for a 2-hour scenic ride along streams, rocky mountain trails and among native palms.  The trail is an out-and-back adventure following a guide from Andreas Canyon to Murray and back.  Our guide, a true cowboy, was the perfect gentleman and shared lots of insight about desert flora and the sacred land that we were riding on.  Not only was it incredible exploring the trails by horse, but the panoramic views of the valley and beyond were breathtaking in all directions, the key is to get out early to avoid the heat.

I will always love Palm Springs for the relaxing getaway that it is, with its chill desert vibe that invites pause, but I also love that you can find big adventure here too. I loved trying new things this visit, and learning that happy, healthy options are possible. These adventures made the relaxing time even more delicious.

Related: A First Timer’s Guide to the New York Marathon

The Fit Traveller was a guest of Visit Palm Springs for this trip. As always, the opinions, words and images are authentically our own.

The iconic palms and mountains of Palm Springs, California. Image © Pat Bailey

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/

Emma Judd | Updated 2023

Emma Judd and running partner Dee running through Central Park. She shares her NYC Marathon training plan. | © Emma Judd

How to Enter the New York Marathon

How do I run the New York City Marathon, you’re asking?

Runners can enter the New York City Marathon via a few different avenues. There is a non-guaranteed entry drawing (the New York Marathon lottery), divided into “NYC-metro area” applicants, other “National” applicants and “International” applicants.

Applicants find out if they have gained entry in around February. Runners not accepted via the drawing or who simply want to help a cause can run for a charity.

For international runners seeking guaranteed entry, look into purchasing a “Marathon Package” (including flights, hotel and entry) through one of the partners, International Tour Operators (ITO).

My marathon story started in January 2017. I contacted a friend who was living in New Zealand, Dee, as I thought a fit holiday to New Zealand and taking on the Auckland Half Marathon while I was there would be a good idea.

Dee had other ideas. It wasn’t a complete shock, as a colleague of ours had done the New York Marathon a couple of years prior and absolutely loved it – but I just never thought I would do it.

In a matter of weeks, we’d enquired with our friends at the MND and Me Foundation, booked our travel and entered the New York City Marathon.

Once you commit, you’re all in, so book wisely and months in advance if you can; you need all the training time you can allow, especially if it’s your first marathon.

It’s a life-defining experience. You realise what your body is capable of. The NYC Marathon is an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. No regrets. Just do it.

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The streets of the iconic setting for the NYC Marathon. Image by Jon Flobrant

Travelling to New York

• If I had my time again, I might have gone to New York sooner, as the Marathon vibe and shenanigans commence that week (follow @nymarathon on Instagram). Honestly, the whole city is into the marathon vibe. It’s the best.
• Pack your marathon clothes and necessities with you in your carry-on. How annoying would it be if your luggage got lost and you didn’t have all your pre-prepared clothing, gels and other essentials to run? It would mean an uncomfortable marathon for you.
• Ubers from JFK airport are near impossible to get, so suck it up and grab a cab or pre-organise another way to get to your New York hotel (Click here for New York City Hotel Deals).
• You need to pick up your race pack on either the Friday or Saturday preceding Race Day Sunday. Due to flight times, I actually didn’t get in until super late on Friday, so Saturday was my only option to visit Race Pack Collection.

Where to Stay for the New York Marathon

There are many international partners for the New York Marathon and they offer event packages. Simply search NYC Marathon packages by country.

We opted for a 3-night package that included accommodation at The New Yorker and race day entry. Our package included accommodation up to and including race day night. 

Thanks to a tip from a friend who had done the marathon the previous year, we extended our stay by one night so we could have more recovery time.

The Best New York Marathon Hotels

It is best to book your hotel for the New York Marathon as soon as you decide to enter as hotels book out as early as the first quarter of the year.

Hotels near the finish line include The Wallace, Arthouse Hotel, the Mandarin Oriental and Lucerne Hotel.

Hotels near the bus to the starting line include the Grayson Hotel and the Gotham Hotel.

Search other NYC hotels below.

New York Marathon Training Plan

So, you’ve booked your accommodation, entry and flights. But the only guarantee you’ll get to that NYC marathon finish line is through dedication to your training. 

As soon as you start clocking some serious kilometres, you’ll realise chafe is very real, blisters are the devil and nutrition is key. 

The saying “If it’s meant to be, it’s up to me” has never been more true. Each week you check off the training schedule is one week closer to the big day.

That day will come, regardless of whether you have trained or not.

Doing enough running training is important so you can enjoy the event and you’ll experience New York’s five boroughs in the most spectacular way that only a New York Marathoner can truly understand.

How do you create a marathon training plan?

• Choose a New York Marathon training plan that suits your lifestyle. The best marathon training plan is the one that works for you, your schedule and to achieve your personal goals. For Dee and I, that meant a distance-based training schedule, based on a minimum of kilometres/miles per week, which was flexible around our work and life commitments, slowly increasing kilometres /miles in a realistic way for an approximate marathon goal time we were aiming for. While tough (and that 80 km (49-mile) week was laughable at the start), we stuck to it and it obviously worked for us. We have the medals to prove it.
• Set a race target time. Whether you are a beginner marathon runner or you’ve run a couple of marathons, you will need to set a race target time. That will help you establish a race pace to work towards. Then, you can create a marathon training guide around those times and have a super clear goal which will carry you through the race.

• Join a running group. Or if you’re fundraising with a charity, join their organised sessions. A bonus is meeting the people in your city who actually like running, will be there for the long training runs, and won’t bail on you.
• Track your runs via a training watch or running app like STRAVA. It’s a good way to see your improvements and consistently track your pace over time.
• Free New York Marathon Training Plan. This is a 20-week marathon training plan pdf for you to download and use as a guide (it’s in km and miles). It is a first-time marathon training plan but I had a good base level of fitness so wouldn’t necessarily suit all beginner marathon runners.
• If you are a new runner, you may want to start with a walk-run marathon training plan to start out more slowly and build up to a shuffle.

Emma is on a training run in her hometown of Brisbane. Australia. | © Dee Gregory

There isn’t actually anything “bad” about marathon training as it’s really exciting and such an awesome challenge. Things that are (not so) bad include:

• Running. All the time. Plan your weekly run schedule in advance to make it realistic and easy for yourself. Don’t leave those kilometres all to the end of the week – you’ll regret it. Keep to your running plan no matter what. Even if you don’t feel like running – run. Picture that finish line; that’s your why.
• Running shoes are like tyres and can only do so many kilometres.
• Running partners may cancel on you, so get used to your own company. Anyone not training for a marathon may think you are a bit nuts, so they may cancel on your 26km run date together – as appealing as it sounds. You cannot let this hinder your training. Get up and go, my friend. The road to the finish line can be a lonely one, sometimes.
• Chafe and blisters. The pain. Anything you can do to mitigate pain, try it on your training runs and get into a routine.

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The road to the New York City Marathon may be paved with a few solo runs, but Emma says it is worth it in the end. | © Emma Judd

What to Wear for New York Marathon Training

When it comes to New York marathon gear the rule is: New everything. New shoes, new socks, new running belt, new water bottles, new anti-chafe stick, new lollies, new running gloves and neck warmer (you’ll be training in winter and running in the New York cold), many new pairs of tights, new visor, new sunscreen, new fave running shirts. But remember, nothing new on race day. Everything in the list below should be tried and tested in your training sessions.

• Best marathon shoes: HOKA ONEONE were, for me, the best shoes for marathon training. Light, cushioned. I honestly felt like I was running on clouds.
• Best marathon socks: Feetures running socks. I have three pairs I love them so much. They are supportive, cushioned and comfortable.
• Best marathon running belt and water bottles: Fiipbelt. Yes. You will need a running belt to carry all of your things. It may seem super nerdy or super serious runner person, but you’ll learn to love it. I even take mine on shorter runs now – it’s super convenient.
• Best anti-Chafe Stick: Body Glide. Don’t even think. Just buy it and use it wisely. This anti-chafe stick saves bodies.
• Best marathon hydration gels and nutritional support: I’d recommend trying a few running gels and electrolyte tablets on your training runs. I personally liked these brands: Nuun and Gu (their chocolate gel tastes like melted chocolate).
• Best marathon tights: I tried a few brands, but none were as comfortable or anti-chafe as 2XU compression tights. I wouldn’t run without them now.
• Best Marathon top: Just wear something you are comfortable in and make sure you have trained in it. We like the
  2XU running tops or the Lululemon running tops.

What to Wear to the New York Marathon

Again, only wear clothes you have been training in (nothing new on race day).

I wore a singlet, compression running tights, sports, bra, hat/visor, running belt (carrying water, lollies, salt tablets, gels), a neck warmer and running gloves (optional), shoes and socks, warm clothes that you are happy to donate to charity (you remove these just before your start time). 

You will also need a bib number and pins, a running watch and an old towel or rug you can sit on while you wait (and you are happy to leave behind).

The Marathon Countdown

Sooner than you know, you’ll hit “peak week” (your maximum kilometres/miles per week) and then you’ll be on smooth sailing to event week. This is where you’ll test your New York Marathon training plan. All that hard work is about to pay off.

Next thing you know, you’ll be boarding a plane bound for New York City. When you get to New York, you’ll be super excited and super exhausted, so hopefully you can get a good night’s sleep.

When you head to the Race Pack Collection, plan to spend a few hours there. You are going to want all of the merchandise. Also, I would highly recommend sitting in on a race rundown session, grabbing a wristband for the pace you’re aiming for and planning your course family meet-ups and photo ops using the neat tools they have available.

Use the opportunity to race plan with your running buddies; where will you stop for toilet breaks, and nutrition breaks, decide whether you’re happy to run together or not, etc.

On race day, it’s easier for a runner to find a family member in the crowd rather than the other way around – so try to note what your support crew are wearing and a specific time and location.

The Night Before the Race

3 pm: Layout your race kit and pack your clear bag to take to the start line (you get an option of taking a bag for collection or getting a post-race cape. Choose the post-race cape and only pack what you need or you can throw away) and make your breakfast for the next morning.

5 pm: Early carbohydrate-load dinner. I highly recommend Italian and we ate at Basso56 which was delicious.

7 pm: You’ll be excited but go to sleep with your phone and watch on charge.

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Emma and Dee waiting to start the New York City Marathon. Image © Emma Judd

New York Marathon Race Day Schedule

The New York Marathon starts on Staten Island and finishes in Central Park New York.

5 am: Wake up and eat a carbohydrate-loaded breakfast (oats/bananas etc), get dressed (including anti-chafe gel + sunscreen)

6 am: Bus to Staten Island. The line is huge but it will move quickly. Remember, the authorities are trying to move 50,000 people across New York City to one tiny island; be patient and stay with your crew. You may want to opt for a ferry transfer, depending on where you are staying.

7 am: You’ll arrive on Staten Island, go through security check-in, find your Carousel and Gate and then pick a spot to sit for a few hours as you begin the waiting game for your start time.

Use this time to keep hydrated, eat, use the bathroom (the lines are long for the toilet), relax, and take photos (some professional photographers will be around so keep an eye out to get a pre-race snap).

9 am-11 am: Go time. Your time will be called over the loudspeaker, and you will head to your carousel/gate and move in ready for your start time.

The American National Anthem will be played and the countdown…3, 2, 1 and you’re off!

You’ll be able to download the New York City Marathon Route Map here in the lead-up to race day.

The NYC Marathon should be on every runner’s bucket list. Image by Dorothee Hubner

What is Like to Run the New York Marathon 

First, you head up and over the Verrazzano Bridge leaving Staten Island behind as you move into Brooklyn. I remember Brooklyn being super exciting. But settle in, it’s a long hike of the straight road coming up.

While the route has signage at each mile. Australians, you get a kilometre sign every 5 kilometres, so it’s a bit of a mind game as to how far you’ve gone.

Pace yourself and don’t feel like you need to sprint – you want to make it to the end after all.

I recall the water stations being quite slippery, so careful where you step. But make sure if anything that you stick to your nutrition and hydration plan! Even if you’re not “thirsty” have a sip to keep you going until the next station (which is at every mile from the 3-mile mark onwards).

Take it all in – the atmosphere is like nothing you’d ever experienced before. People are cheering your name (because it’s on your bib), singing and dancing. The whole of New York has come out to support you.

You’ll run all five boroughs of New York – Staten Island > Brooklyn > Queens > The Bronx > Manhattan. When you hit 5th Avenue, it will hurt, but you’re running the New York Marathon, Channel that excitement and use the adrenaline and push to Central Park.

When you step into Central Park, you know you’re going to make it; you’re going to cross that finish line but don’t wish it away. Look around, smile at the crowds – wave, sing, dance, high-five people. All of that training is about to pay off.

You’ll round the corner with 1km to go. Get ready to look up to the cameras as you run it in (not down at your watch). You’ve just finished the New York Marathon. Give me that medal. Take your selfies, get a lot of photos and enjoy the moment.

For professionals, the 26.2 miles of the marathon can take just over 2 hours to finish. We finished at around 4 pm.

Emma and Dee cross the finish line of the New York City Marathon. Image © Emma Judd

After the Race

If you thought the kilometres were over, you were wrong. When you do a marathon, it feels like it’s almost another marathon to get back to your hotel room.

The streets are closed, so you’re directed out the long way. On the way, you’ll collect a finisher’s bag with goodies, water, and food and you’ll get your cape. As you keep walking, you’ll see big letters of the alphabet lining the streets – a good option to meet your family and friends.

Follow the “blue ghosts” (you all look like ghosts in your blue capes haha) and then make your way back to your hotel. We were super lucky to stay where we did as it was a relatively short walk compared to others. 

Do not check out of your hotel the next day. Plan to sleep in, go and get a late breakfast at an awesome New York breakfast spot.

Wear your medal around NYC with pride. Everyone does, and everyone will be yelling congratulations your way when they see your medal. It’s so cool how much New York locals embrace the marathon and really make the atmosphere what it is.

Would I do the New York Marathon again? In a heartbeat. It’s magic. An experience I will not soon forget.

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Emma proudly showed off her NYC Marathon medal. Image © Emma Judd

Emma Judd

The gym is pretty much Emma’s home away from home and she’s obsessed with anything health and fitness.

Emma plans her holidays around gym or some form of exercise, has a new found love for flexible eating and is absolutely, 100% a morning person.

Emma works in marketing and enjoys discovering healthy treats at various cafes on foodie adventures around Brisbane, Australia and beyond.

www.instagram.com/emajudd/

Pat Bailey

Pat and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey. Image © Pat Bailey

A Local’s Guide to San Francisco

Arriving in San Francisco

Getting to San Francisco from any direction is incredibly easy with two major airports: San Francisco International Airport and Oakland Airport. Search flights to San Francisco here. In addition, highways run in every direction if coming by car is your mode of transportation.

View San Francisco Deals on TripAdvisor 

Where to Stay in San Francisco

There are literally thousands of options for staying in San Francisco, home of Air B&B, you can even try your luck with a listing on this popular app. When I want a staycation in my home city, or I’m craving a splurge weekend in the city I book a room at Clift.

Tales of whimsy at The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel. Image © Pat Bailey

A relaxing night at The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel | Check Prices

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel has been my number one hotel choice in San Francisco since moving here. Not only does it have one of the most iconic bars in the city, but it is a property with a great history for mixing old and new, for appreciating careful design, and it has a casual luxury that is easy to slip into.

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel San Francisco is a sexy hotel and you feel sexy staying there, I love this. The design is a fusion of old-world hotel elegance with bold contemporary energy and glamour and just enough whimsy to keep you honest; this century-old hotel is quintessential San Francisco.

The Clift’s magic begins to take as soon as you walk into the lobby leaving the city behind. Designed by Philippe Starck and Ian Schrager, their world is a fantasy land of eclectic furnishings exciting all five senses at once. A signature floral scent tickles your nose and an inviting purple glow welcomes you into the soaring lobby that contains chairs from Ray and Charles Eames, a coffee table by Salvador Dali, The Apple Stool by Roberto Sebastian Matta inspired by René Magritte, and a sculpture custom made by William Sawaya. To say it is an Instagrammable lobby is an understatement, there is goodness tucked in every corner and plenty to muse you. This first impression is bar none and one of my favourite things about staying here – you are in another world instantly.

Unique design elements in every corner of The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

Sleek, sophisticated lines at The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

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I suggest you find ways to spend time in the lobby; enjoy a drink beside the thirty-five-foot fireplace centrepiece with a bronze chimney sculpture by Gerard Garouste, or take a seat (if you can) on the larger-than-life chair for a great photo. Don’t forget to look under the chair for a scavenger hunt worthy secret in San Francisco.

The whimsy of scale, and modern colour, mixed with timeless elegance carries into the 372 luxury guest rooms of this property. From the Malin + Goetz bath amenities to the 300 thread count bedding, down duvet, and Merino wool lavender blanket, the luxury is palpable here. It is sensual, tactile and elegant. Each room features beautifully crafted furniture custom-designed by Starck.  English sycamore is accented by velvet, leather and chrome. Playful splashes of an orange glow against the milky flat lavender walls and carefully curated accents in so many different textures that it teases you to keep up. A wooden “wheelbarrow” chair inspired by Man Ray is illuminated by a custom Venetian glass lamp, the room is poetry in motion, a work of art, a brilliant piece of thought paused for each guest to slip into a create a new story each time they stay and I’ve done just that.

The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel is located seconds from Union Square and Nob Hill and many of my favourite places in the city but you don’t even have to leave the building to experience one of my all-time favourite places to grab a drink and nosh. The famed Redwood Room located just off the lobby of the Clift is iconic San Francisco. Dripping with glamour and sex appeal the big room features the original redwood panelling and enormous bar, which legend has, was carved from a single redwood tree. The room carries this motif throughout and is dressed in art-deco jewels of mirrored tables, velvet seating, and Venetian etched glass. Ever-changing and evocative digital artwork is displayed on plasma television screens hung throughout the room like art – Redwood Room’s craft cocktails and light fare will give you plenty of reasons to grab a dress and a gent and enjoy a slower, sexy, cozy pace.

What to See and Do in San Francisco

San Francisco is widely considered one of the best places to visit in the USA. It’s clear to see why, as there are many incredibly fun and interesting things to do in San Francisco all the time. We have many museums, plenty of shopping, lots of parts, an ocean, beaches and you can literally go in any direction to find adventure. Here are a few of the best things to do in San Francisco.

Riding the trolley is a must-do in San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

Coming from the Midwest, it’s nice to get my winter fix of ice skating once a year around Christmas time when Union Square and a special spot on the Embarcadero turn into a winter wonderland. You can easily walk to these locations from public transportation or nearby hotels, and there is parking under Union Square for anyone coming by car. Renting skates is part of the fun, and makes this plan completely spontaneous-worthy. Outdoor ice skating in San Francisco begins in November and goes through December, daily from 10 am until 11:30 pm and is one of the best things to do in San Francisco with kids.

If whizzing around on roller skates makes you happy, you’ll be happy to discover that you can rent skates at Golden Gate Park Bike & Skate near Golden Gate Park and skate until your heart is content. On Sundays skaters from all over the city meet up in the park to show off, this has been happening in the park since the 1800s.

Art lovers should head to SF MOMA with modern art collections that span the 45,000 square feet. Image © Pat Bailey

Light reflections at the beautiful Conservatory of Flowers in San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

I love the museums in San Francisco. You can take your pick between the de Young Museum where I’ve swooned over Goethe, the SF MOMA where I’ve feasted my eyes on incredible modern art collections that span the 45,000 square feet of art-filled space that you can explore for free including a peek at Frida Kahlo’s wedding portrait, or the brand-new and highly coveted and Instagrammable Museum of Ice Cream (be sure to grab a ticket well in advance for this one because it’s super popular).

The gorgeous Conservatory of Flowers building in San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

If horticulture is your thing, don’t miss the Conservatory of Flowers and the Japanese Tea Garden, really close to the de Young. I spent the day at the Conservatory of flowers recently enjoying the butterfly room and it was incredible, the Tea Garden is the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States and it is definitely worth visiting, especially in the Spring.

The magically colourful Mosaic Steps leading to Lincoln Park in San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

A local’s guide to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a couple of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city. At the top of the list are the beautifully colourful mosaic steps leading up to Lincoln Park. They are easy to find, and capture and the park beyond the steps is worth a pause too. Clarion Alley, located in one of my favourite parts of the city, the Mission, is worth a visit if street art is something you appreciate. This community mural project spans one alley block and each piece of art is a great backdrop for your next post. This alley is also located between two of my favourite streets in San Francisco for dining and shopping and it is one of the warmest parts of the city usually.

Pat turns life on its head in Clarion Alley San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

Do you know the words to every Greece song from the musical? If you love musicals, and you love singing, the Castro Theater Sing Along offers a unique experience in San Francisco. Pre-book tickets before your visit. The theatre comes alive with a showing of the musical on the big screen complete with sing-along lyrics, and great animation. Every ticket includes a goodie bag with all of the props you need to get in the mood for this fun and very San Francisco treat.

Fun on Fog Bridge, a unique art installation in San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

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Unique Things to Do in San Francisco

Two of the most unique experiences in San Francisco are the Fog Bridge and the Audium. The Fog Bridge was intended to be a temporary art installation and it was so well-received that the Exploratorium decided to keep it as a permanent exhibit. You can experience real fog most of the time in San Francisco, but in the form of “art” through this really cool installation. Fujiko Nakaya created this installation in 2013 and it is now a free experience between Piers 15 and 17 on the Embarcadero in the city. The 150-foot-long pedestrian bridge is filled with real fog and you can walk, dance and play in it daily at these times: 10 am, Noon, 2 pm, 4 pm and on Thursday evenings at 7 pm.

Audium is a sound experience that you must experience for yourself to fully appreciate. It is the only theatre of its kind in the world. Listeners are bathed in sound that surrounds them in the space so much that the sounds can be felt moving past, over and under them. “Sound Sculptures” are performed in darkness in the 49-seat theatre with 176 speakers sharing sound.

Yoga at Grace Cathedral San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

Yoga at Grace Cathedral San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

A visit to Grace Cathedral should be on your list, especially if practising yoga inside on the labyrinth sounds like something you’d like to do. Visit the cathedral during the day to appreciate the grandeur and beauty of this incredible place, plan to join hundreds on your mat any Wednesday night of the year for yoga with live music and if you are lucky Darin Main will be there teaching the class. These classes are donation-based and one hour long, bring layers and an open heart.

You cannot visit San Francisco on a sunny day without a visit to Dolores Park. This park is the heart of San Francisco, with lawns and views and people watching galore. Stop by the nearby Bi-Rite for fresh things to picnic, or grab a gourmet ice cream at their second nearby location and take a blanket and pick your spot. If you wonder what it must feel like to live in this eclectic city, a picnic in this park will give you the perfect answer.

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San Francisco and bay area beaches are a must-see. Image © Pat Bailey

San Francisco Area Beaches

California is synonymous with beaches and San Francisco has its share of beach options. If a San Francisco beach experience is on your list head to Crissy Field where you can catch the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge and a beautiful view of the Bay, Marin and beyond. Head to Ocean Beach for a quintessential Northern California beach experience with an expansive beach, Baker Beach is more quiet with another view of the Golden Gate Bridge or take a trip over the bridge and into Marin for the beaches on the other side of the bay: Kirby Cove, Rodeo, Cronkite, Sausalito, Stinson, and Bolinas. Each beach has its own personality and climate, be sure to check the weather and know that the water temperature in San Francisco is 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 degrees Celsius) at its warmest which is from mid August until late September.

Fishing boat in the bay, in Sausalito with San Francisco in distance. Image © Pat Bailey

Where to Eat and Drink in San Francisco

San Francisco is a foodie town, and a craft cocktail town, we take both very seriously. The list below is a snapshot of some of the best restaurants and cafes in San Francisco.

For meatballs as big as your head and a spaghetti experience like no other, make plans to visit Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack in the Mission, dinner is my favourite especially on a cold night when you want to feel cozy and feast on comfort food but they are now open for lunch too. Make a reservation or wait in a long line for this popular and very local spot.

Spruce is Chef Mark Sullivan’s restaurant and where you can find one of the best burgers in San Francisco. This is a great neighbourhood restaurant for dining with friends or pop into the bar – the wine list is amazing too. Another delicious burger can be found at Namu Gaji, where you will find a life-changing burger, among other delicious menu options.

Hog Island Oysters is a must when you are in San Francisco, especially if you leave or arrive by ferry. The Ferry Building location is the perfect place to meet friends or send friends from out of town.  Order the baked oyster flight with bubbles or sit at the sidebar and sip a craft cocktail.

Trick Dog is a quintessential San Francisco Mission bar and one of my very favourite places for a true Old Fashion made with a huge handmade ice cube. On the World’s 50 Best Bars list, this bar is a must. The second reason to visit Trick Dog is the kale salad, trust me. I know this seems like an odd combination and if so don’t do it but if you arrive at Trick Dog hungry for more than a perfect craft cocktail order the kale salad and you are welcome. 

Craft cocktails are synonymous with San Francisco, a few of my other favourite places to grab one are Alta CA, where you must order the deviled eggs and stay for dinner, Benjamin Cooper where your first task is finding the secret-ish place that also has oysters and other delectables with their cocktail list,  Chambers Eat + Drink which is part of the old Phoenix Hotel and an incredibly groovy experience. Wander to the back bar where you’ll find an Instagram-worthy backdrop for a photo after you stay for cocktails and dinner.

Bourbon and Branch, a real speakeasy, is a must-see when you visit San Francisco. Be sure to make a reservation online where you will receive a personal password to enter which you really will need in order to enter. Don’t let the alley-like, no-nonsense façade fool you, this is part of the charm and what awaits you inside is magic and a step back in time.  Be warned that there are rules, like no phones so no Instagramming here and if ordering a Cosmo is your MO you might want to skip this place or choose another drink. Visit Bourbon and Branch before or after dinner, they don’t serve a single morsel of food here and your table reservation is strictly enforced and by the hour.

Sunday brunching in San Francisco is a big deal. San Francisco brunch it is a day-long and beloved affair that we take very seriously. I love Foreign Cinema for dinner where you can sit outside in the courtyard and enjoy the vintage film playing for the night, but I love it even more for brunch.  Be sure to make a reservation by calling or online if this spot is on your list because it is a popular spot in the city.

My favourite off-the-beaten-path and well-worth the trip restaurant is Outerlands which you can find by way of a trip to Ocean Beach. One of the best brunches in the city in my opinion and again, make a reservation or wait forever…if you find yourself waiting, either way, pop into nearby Trouble Coffee Company for a real treat in real coffee.

Four of my favourite restaurants with flavours from around the world are: Burma Superstar, please order the Tea Leaf Salad, Kokkari Estiatorio where you can feast on a delicious Greek menu, Flour + Water which has some of the very best pasta in town and Plouf, one of the most charming alley restaurants in San Francisco serving French flavours.

Mr Holmes Bakehouse in San Francisco is the pick for the visitor with the sweet tooth. Image © Pat Bailey

Breakfast pastries at Arsicault Bakery San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

Related: Unique Places to Eat in Chicago

For unique dining experiences make a reservation at one of these favourites: Straw, where the theme is the circus in everything from the drinks to the menu, be sure to order the Donut Burger, a burger served on a doughnut bun. Gracias Madre one of my favourite go-to vegetarian restaurants in the city, and Asia SF which is an all-inclusive dinner and drag show that has potential to be one of the highlights of your visit to San Francisco.

If a sweet treat is what you are craving please put these places on your list, they are my all-time favourites: Mr. Holmes Bakehouse home of the “cruffin,” a cross between a croissant and muffin and the spot with the famed “I got baked in San Francisco” neon sign. Hot Cookie, a must-see in the Castro with ooey-gooey cookies and other Rated R shaped treats. Dandelion Chocolate in the Mission, a great spot to stop after visiting Clarion Alley, order the Drinking Chocolate or a Brownie Bite Flight and plan to take some of this delicious chocolate home to someone for a gift.

Arsicault Bakery deserves its own piece because it is so spectacular, so much so that there is always a line at least a block long as soon as the bakery opens.  Awarded the best bakery in America by Bon Apetit, it goes without saying that the pastries are delicious.  Go early, order the Almond Croissant and take it with you to a place where you can savour every bite – guests are limited to only four pastries and pastries sell out before closing on most days.

If you are up for a cupcake tasting challenge, I challenge you to try and rate the cupcakes at my three favourite places (in this order): Sift Dessert Bar, Sweet Things Bakery, and Kara’s Cupcakes.

Hunt down some gooey, sweet cookies in the Castro as a special treat. Image © Pat Bailey

Colourful cupcake tasting at Sift Dessert Bar. Image © Pat Bailey

Staying Active in San Francisco

We have the luxury of year-round outdoor opportunities in San Francisco with December being one of the most beautiful times of the year to visit, because of this and the vast diversity in activities, staying active in and around this city is easy and encouraged.

Where to Practice Yoga in San Francisco

The yoga scene in San Francisco includes yoga of all kinds and studios on every corner, each with its distinct feel and experience. My favourite places to practice yoga include Yoga Flow SF Union with Anna Hughes, Yoga Flow SF Ocean when Rusty Wells is in town, Yoga Tree in the Castro for Bhakti Kirtan with Nat Kendall and a rigorous vinyasa with Mark Morford, and Love Story with Peter Walters. For many of us in the city, it’s less about the studio or location of the studio and more about the teacher. I travel many miles to practice with these teachers because of who they are and the classes they teach.

Related: Read About Our Favourite Wellness Retreats Around the World

Pat Bailey practising yoga in San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

Running in San Francisco

If you are a runner, early morning runs along the Embarcadero are a beautiful way to start the day.  You’ll run past the Ferry Building, Fisherman’s Wharf and even Cupid’s Span if you are feeling ambitious. Crissy Field is also a great place for running along the water.

The Best Bike Rides in San Francisco

Cycling is a must in San Francisco, especially if crossing the Golden Gate Bridge on a bike is on your list. There are many bike rental companies in San Francisco where you can hire a bike and a map and they will point you in the direction of Marin, you can even rent an electric bike if pedalling help is what you are after. Cycling in San Francisco city is not for a novice and the ride from the city to the best stopping point in Sausalito across the Golden Gate Bridge is a doozy so you should be ready for a grand adventure but I promise you it will be worth every minute. Once you arrive in Sausalito there are many places to grab lunch and you can decide to pedal back or ferry back easily with your bike. If the bridge is your destination, there are great viewing points for a photo on both sides of the bridge and you can easily turn around and return to the city.

Bike riding in beautiful Marin San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

Picturesque hiking trails in Marin, San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

For serious cyclists, it doesn’t get more epic than cycling in Marin. Whether you are travelling by your own bike or looking to rent a comparable one, you will find many options for road and mountain biking just across the Golden Gate Bridge from the city. A few of the best San Francisco bike rides are The Headlands Loop (29.2km/18.2 miles with 2,051 feet of elevation) with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge as you climb gradually to the top and then enjoy an epic descent with an open water ocean view, The Tiburon Loop (42.8km/26.6 miles with 1,174 feet of elevation) which is a moderate loop around Paradise Drive in Tiburon with gentle rollers and as the ride suggests paradise views. The Alpine Dam and Mount Tam ride is one of my all-time favourite road rides, it is epic. It is an 86.4km/53.7 mile ride with 5,445 feet of climbing and it has every element including climbing and incredibly fast descents.

San Francisco is a cyclist’s paradise. Image © Pat Bailey

For mountain biking, climb Mount Tam on Railroad Grade up to Pantoll or take the Coastal Trail for a longer ride with spectacular single track and drop off panoramic views. Marin is the original home of mountain biking and we have many, many trails for this sport. One of my all-time favourite mountain bike rides is Tamarancho, you must add this ride to your list if you are a cyclist visiting San Francisco and be sure to do the Flow Trail for added adventure.

There are many beautiful day trips from San Francisco. Image © Pat Bailey

Day Trips From San Francisco

You can literally go in any direction for a day trip from the city. Day trips to the town of Sausalito and just beyond it in Marin are a must. Take a trip via Golden Gate Ferry from the Ferry Building in San Francisco directly to Sausalito where you will have a unique vantage point water view of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Area. 

Once you arrive, you have many options for lunch including Cibo, an amazing spot with a house-made, organic menu which the owners Tera and Alfredo put their heart and soul into every single day. Order the Polenta Poptart and sip on coffee they roast here themselves. 

The Sausalito Taco Shop is Bree’s Baja-style Mexican spot in town and my go-to for a sunny outside table and fresh and delicious Mexican food. Wander downtown on a sunny day for a skyline view of the city that never gets old and if you are lucky you will catch Bill Dan, the rock stacker who stacks rocks on the rocky beach. 

If you stay for dinner, the best spot to watch the sunset over the skyline is at Barrel House. Grab one of the outside tables on the balcony and order one of their beautiful wines and a first course. 

My favourite dinner spots in Sausalito are: Sushi Ran for artfully prepared and served Japanese – everything on the menu is delicious, Poggio for authentic and delicious Italian, Fred’s Coffee Shop for a local breakfast place where the Fried French Toast is a local favourite, Le Garage a French bistro perfect for dining al fresco when the weather is sunny enough (and close by the Schoonmaker Beach in Sausalito), Fish which is on the water and serves the most delicious fresh fish, bring cash and order the Crab Roll.

There are so many beautiful places to visit in Marin, just beyond Sausalito. A few to put at the top of your list are Angel Island, a great quick ferry ride from Tiburon and the perfect spot for a unique view of the bay and city. You can bike around the island, hike easy trails and/or take a picnic on a beautiful day. Napa is about one hour due North from Sausalito if wine tasting and exploring are on your list. Muir Woods is an incredibly beautiful way to see the Redwoods.

The Fit Traveller was a guest of The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel San Francisco during our stay in San Francisco. However, our opinions, words and images remain authentically our own.

Pat Bailey taking in the afternoon light in the shadow of the iconic Golden Gate bridge. Image © Pat Bailey

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/

Pat Bailey

Pat relaxes at one of the beautiful pools at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

A Weekend Getaway in Arizona

Getting to Phoenix

I flew directly from San Francisco International Airport into the Phoenix Airport, Phoenix is easily accessible from any direction and the airport is manageable and easy to navigate. Search flights to Phoenix. Depending on your itinerary and plans, I recommend renting a car. Some of my favourite places are on long stretches of desert road and the drive to them is part of the magic.

The perfectly palm-fringed Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

Where to Stay in Phoenix

Scottsdale, one of the many suburbs of Phoenix, is a beautiful place to stay especially if you book a room at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. The hotel, set to the backdrop of the McDowell Mountains, is an impeccable example of modern Frank Lloyd Write inspired architecture juxtaposed with the desert flora of cacti, wild flowers, green lawns and palm trees. It is indeed a desert oasis.

Earthy tones are carried from the outside in at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

My suite, one of 493 rooms, included a luxurious king-size bed, roomy and modern bathroom with rain shower, small sitting area, and a sunny balcony with a view of the property’s lake and palm trees to add privacy and dappled shade. I loved the sunrise light that filtered in and the sound of the Gondolero paddling by at night. It was also the perfect spot to sit and catch my breath each day.

The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale features an incredible ten pools. Image © Ashley Drody

The property boasts ten pools, several of which are for swimming, and it was fun to explore the personality of each. The two main pools sit side-by-side, separated into an adult-only experience with a pool bar and a more family friendly option with wading pools and even a water slide. There is a miniature golf area, a climbing wall and plenty of pool-side beach in the family pool area with plenty to do for each person in the family. From the adult pool you have a beautiful view of the lake that surrounds the property, and just beyond it is a 27-hole championship golf course.

Al fresco dining is the order of the day at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

I loved the open-air courtyard joining the pools to the property, with tall palms and plenty of lounging and al fresco dining options. Foodies will not be disappointed with a stay or visit to this property, there are three restaurant experiences available. SWB has a menu full of authentic Southwest flavours, NOH serves Japanese dishes and Alto Ristorante is an Italian restaurant. The Center Stage Bar serves handcrafted cocktails and just beyond it you can catch local musicians almost nightly on stage adding to the cozy ambience of the grand space.

Related: 48 Hours in LA: Where to Stay, Eat and Explore

Spa Avania features a beautiful open fireplace to encourage guests to unwind. Image © Ashley Drody

Spa Avania is the spa located on property and it is a sanctuary of its own. I enjoyed a traditional massage and spent the afternoon lounging in the private pool areas complete with hot tub and cold dipping pool as well as a cozy fireplace and sauna. This oasis is tucked away from the main property and feels remote and intimate, it was the perfect spot to catch my breath.

A Gondolero takes Pat on a trip around the lake at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale. Image © Ashley Drody

A total treat during my stay was the gondola ride. Professional gondola rowers and singers take guests around the lake a few times each day. I loved my ride and I also loved hearing the singers row past my balcony each night. I also wandered into the Native American Museum located just off the lobby, this museum is a collaboration and labor of love between the Hyatt Regency staff and local tribe members – the spirit of these people can be found here and it was a nice surprise to find their culture and history celebrated and honoured in this way.

Check Prices for the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale

Visit Sloan Park, home of the Chicago Cubs spring training camp while in Mesa. Image © Ashley Drody

Things to do in Phoenix and Mesa

My Arizona itinerary for Mesa and Phoenix revolved around the Five C’s of Arizona: copper, cotton, citrus, cattle, and climate, and it included a few unique Arizona experiences.

Sloan Park

A trip to Mesa during spring time must include a visit to Sloan Park, home of the Chicago Cubs spring training camp. I was lucky to catch the Cubs play the Oakland A’s when I visited. This stadium, which opened in 2014, is the largest and newest Major League Baseball training stadium.  Fans flock here to watch the Cubs, on average the park hosts more than 15,000 fans per game.  And, because it’s the home of the Cubs, many iconic features have been added including Chicago Dogs and Deep-Dish Pizza. I was a happy Midwesterner in my element, and the Cubs won the game.

Related: 48 Hours in Chicago: A Local’s Guide on What to See and Do

Pat enjoying the spoils of a Cubs game at Sloan Park, Mesa. Image © Ashley Drody

Schnepf Farms

Schnepf Farms is a must-see if desert glamping and good old-fashion peach picking is on your list. This fourth-generation family owned homestead spans 5,000 acres and is dedicated to preserving the legacy of family farming in the area; it is the largest organic peach grower in Arizona celebrating over 50 years. 

Pat takes a tour of one of the lovingly homes Airstream trailers at Schnepf Farms. Image © Ashley Drody

The original farm has now expanded to include a complete complex for hosting yearly festivals of all kinds (including the most popular Peach Festival), a family adventure park and the newest addition of glamping in vintage Airstream trailers. Carrie Schnepf has lovingly devoted her time to finding and restoring the four Airstreams, two Spartans and two Silver Streaks, which now make up a unique overnight guest experience on the property called “The Cozy Peach.” 

Each trailer is a suite on wheels with a theme of its own and both vintage and modern amenities that make you smile and feel right at home. You can book your very own Airstream for one night or several and find yourself under the stars in the desert with full service attention which is the best of both worlds.

Related: How to Spend a Weekend in Park City Utah

Desert reflections bounce of the beautifully shiny Airstreams at Schnepf Farms. Image © Ashley Drody

Agritopia

Unique to the Mesa area is Agritopia, a project where rural and urban influences mix. This “urban farm” complex celebrates the rural setting of the desert and all of its abundance while creatively expanding opportunities to share the abundance and experience with a community. The Agritopia community is a tight one, not only does the community include housing and co-op farming, but it also provides opportunities for local business-owners, crafts people, and other partners to share in the ethos of building community and blending organic farming with intentional urban experiences.  I loved seeing the new, “urban” projects living in harmony with the 100-year-old trees and how the original family homestead ranch-style, slump block home has been repurposed into a modern 60’s era mid-century diner called Joe’s Farm Grill. This project has been named the leading “agri-hood” in the country by New York Times and the diner has been featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.

Agritopia nurtures community through housing and co-op farming. Image © Ashley Drody

Within the Agritopia complex you can find a glass of delicious local wine at Garage East Farm Winery, where Brian Ruffentine will leave you with a lasting impression of his passion for desert wine; he is the owner of this micro-winery showcasing the local wine of wine makers Todd and Kelly Bostock. Garage East Farm Winery is one of 12 resident craft brands that inhabit Barnone, Arizona’s newest Craftsman Community located inside a rustic Quonset hut built with metal from WWII planes that served the nearby Air Force base.  This innovative artesian collective is located on the urban agriculture campus and is a must-visit for supporting a variety of local, small brands.

Arizona Goat Yoga to brings together two passions – yoga and animals. Image © Ashley Drody

Downward Goat. Pat takes to the mat at Arizona Goat Yoga. Image © Ashley Drody

Arizona Goat Yoga

Goat Yoga wasn’t something I ever thought I would have on my list to try, but it was a whimsical experience that proved to be a great reminder to loosen up while connecting with animals. The yoga of this experience is about letting go, and about ahimsa. Sarah Williams, a 20-year old yoga instructor created Arizona Goat Yoga on a whim combining two things she loves: yoga and goats, and it is now a popular activity for both locals and visitors. The experience includes a guided group yoga class outdoors while the goats are free to interact with students if and as they wish, it is impossible to be unhappy or too rigid in your practice while you are sharing it with these happy, gentle creatures. 

Related: Costa Dulce Nicaragua: A Nature and Yoga Retreat on the Pacific Coast

Connecting to nature, animals and new friends at Arizona Goat Yoga. Image © Ashley Drody

Get up early and hit the hiking trails in the Sonora Desert. Image © Ashley Drody

Hiking in the Sonora Desert

Hiking in the Sonora Desert is a popular activity in Arizona with many, many options for all levels of hikers. I hiked the Usery Mountain Wind Cave Trail one morning during this visit which provides breathtaking views from an elevation of 2,840 feet. The trail is an easy one with a short climb to the top of the tunnel in just a few hours. This park spans 3,648 acres and it is located at the western end of the Goldfield Mountains adjacent to the Tonto National Forest. The key to this hike, and many others, is an early start to avoid the heat, and the reward is an incredible view in all directions of the desert flora and beautiful natural skyline of the valley below.

A moment of reflection in the beautiful Sonora Desert. Image © Ashley Drody

Hiking in the Tonto National Forest is a must in Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

The stunning Sonora Desert in Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

Horseback Riding in the Desert

Maybe the sixth “C” in Arizona should belong to the cowboys, because many of them call this state home and nothing beats meeting a real one for an authentic Arizona experience. Fort McDowell Adventures provides just that. Horseback riding in the desert, guided by a local cowboy, is a must-do when you visit the area – I felt like I was riding in a postcard the experience was so beautiful. If you’d rather have a more modern experience, the ranch also provides Segway tours. I opted for the old-fashion adventure which included riding Ajax, a sweet old horse and crossing a belly high river along with listening to tales from our guide.

The picture perfect setting for horseback riding in Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

A peaceful horse ride in the Arizona desert. Image © Ashley Drody

Where to Eat in Arizona

Food in the Southwest is full of flavour, both in taste and in variety. With a focus on local flavours, organic ingredients and farm-to-table concepts, I made my way through this trip discovering the many, many options for delicious dining.

Dining in the desert with Cloth and Flame. Image © Ashley Drody

Dine under the stars at Cloth and Flame

There’s something magical about a secret location, under the stars, in the desert, for cocktails and dinner. Find yourself at a Cloth and Flame immersive dining experience next time you visit the Phoenix area. Events range from intimate events for small groups, to corporate events for hundreds. Our intimate table was set when we arrived and accompanied by a small bar serving handcrafted cocktails with fresh herb garnish. Arriving at the location and walking into the open-air dining experience felt like a fairy tale. Fresh courses of organic and locally sourced ingredients were served by an attentive staff as we watch the sunset sky turn sorbet colours and the nearly full moon and stars take its place. Off in the distance we could see hot air balloons and the surrounding mountain backdrop. The dinner ended with dessert under twinkle lights strung above and around our table; the entire experience was picture perfect and delicious from start to finish.

A friendly and delicious welcome at the Cloth and Flame desert dinner, Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

Evening glow over our al fresco dining setting in Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

Mesa’s Fresh Foodie Trail

Both Schnepf Farms and Agritopia are on Mesa’s Fresh Foodie Trail in addition to a dozen other delightful stops if you are interested in a food-driven road trip adventure that will wind you through Mesa and beyond giving you great stops for education and sampling along the way.

Fire & Brimstone located in the Agritopia Barnone building is a delicious stop for dinner with wood-fire selections utilising the fresh, organic ingredients grown on the property. I stopped at B&B Citrus Farms to taste oranges and see how they are sorted and packaged and while I was there I feasted on vegetarian BBQ options at Jalapeno Buck’s the neighbouring feasting spot.

Related: A Guide to the Best NYC Healthy Restaurants

Stopping in at B&B Citrus Farms, Mesa. Image © Ashley Drody

Home made delights at Queen Creek Olive Mill. Image © Ashley Drody

Queen Creek Olive Mill

Also on the Fresh Foodie Trail is Queen Creek Olive Mill, Arizona’s only working olive farm and mill.  When I think of Arizona I do not think of olives, this was such a nice surprise to find and everything I experienced at Queen Creek Olive Mill was both beautiful and delicious. This family owned and operated 100-acre farm with over 7,000 olive trees is a true farm to table experience and a true family passion. 

Gorgeous creations from the Olive Spa, Arizona. Image © Ashley Drody

I was given a private tour of the soap making facility by owner Brenda, her passion for creating beauty products with the oil is now part of the experience at the Olive Spa. I loved the olive oil lip balm so much that I brought one home for each of my sisters – the lavender lip balm is incredible.  Visitors can taste a mind-blowing selection of innovative extra virgin olive oils, in addition to balsamic vinegars, stuffed olives, and tapenades. 

The café, coffee shop, bakery and ice cream counter are filled with goodness, it was so hard to choose. We enjoyed a spread of sandwiches including their incredibly delicious bruschetta, tasty fresh salads, and yummy cupcakes (definitely try the chocolate olive oil and cupcake made with it). If weather permits definitely sit outside in the open air dining area, the breeze is perfect and you are surrounded by olive trees, it feels almost like Tuscany.

Wandering the olive groves at Queen Creek Olive Mill. Image © Ashley Drody

T.C. Eggington’s Brunchery

If breakfast is serious business for you then a trip to T.C. Eggington’s Brunchery is in order where they scramble, fry, poach or gently fold into delicious omelettes over 8,000 eggs every week. The sheer magnitude of production I witnessed during my brunch here was dizzying, the place was a buzz and is a popular destination for both visitors and locals. Try their famous French Toast made with fresh-baked cinnamon bread dipped in custard-rich batter – it is to die for.

Stopping in for a tipple at Postino Wine Bar. Image © Ashley Drody

Liberty Market

Two great stops in sweet Gilbert, Arizona just outside of Phoenix are Postino East Wine Bar and Liberty Market. With thirty-six unique, approachable wines and a whole menu of bruschetta to pair with them this is the perfect first course or feast on bruschetta place. 

Liberty Market is an urban bistro nearby, housed in a 1930’s building that was once a grocery store. This bistro is Zagat rated and offers a diverse menu of salads, burgers, pasta and the most incredible house-made desserts; is a comfort food haven. Definitely try the Salt River Bar and the Chocolate Death Ray Cake, you’re welcome.

The Farm at South Mountain is a beautiful country oasis providing the quintessential farm to table experience. Image © Ashley Drody

The Farm at South Mountain

The Farm at South Mountain is a beautiful country oasis providing the quintessential farm to table experience and a break from city life in the desert. I fell in-love with the canopies of pecan trees and the wandering paths darting in and out of small gardens and shady resting spots. There are three restaurants on the property, all of which utilise the abundant gardens daily to create truly farm fresh to table menus. The property is a beautiful backdrop for weddings and picnics, I enjoyed a late-afternoon lunch of veggie sandwiches, salads and homemade cookies at a picnic table under a shade umbrella on one of the lawn areas, it was perfection.

The delicious fresh spread at The Farm at South Mountain. Image © Ashley Drody

True Food Kitchen

I had one of the best vegetarian burgers of my life at True Food Kitchen in Scottsdale during this trip. This local chain has an open kitchen concept and a menu to delight any vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free eater. The burger is made with seventy ingredients, yes seventy, and it is impeccable. The “scratch bar” is brimming with a selection of wines, local beers and seasonal cocktails made using fresh pressed fruit and vegetable juices and organic spirits – making even the cocktails taste fresh and healthy.

The world’s most delicious veggie burger at True Food Kitchen. Image © Ashley Drody

Freshly poured cocktails at True Food Kitchen. Image © Ashley Drody

This weekend getaway in Arizona was filled with fresh goodness and local surprises as well as quintessential desert favourites that have been happening for years. With so many things to do in Mesa and Phoenix, a visit to the area is a must if you are craving a desert escape and you want to experience the surprising and stunning Southwest.

The Fit Traveller was a guest of Visit Mesa and Visit Phoenix for this trip. As always, our opinions, words and images are authentically our own.

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/

Pat Bailey

Pat enjoys a poolside snack at The Gates Hotel South Beach. Image © Pat Bailey

A Weekend Getaway in Florida

Getting to Miami

Fly right into the Miami International Airport from any direction, depending on where you are staying and what your itinerary is, you’ll want to look into renting a car. Search flights to Miami.

The Gates Hotel South Beach if a clean, modern and beautiful hotel in the heart of South Beach, Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

The Gates Hotel

If you are wondering where to stay in South Beach, you will find that there is no shortage of high-end, boutique and even local hotels. My stay at The Gates Hotel South Beach was perfect for a lot of reasons, but mostly because it is located in the heart of South Beach on Collins Avenue with great access to the beach and many hot spots in South Beach, as well as quick access to downtown Miami. The hotel is also located about nine miles North of the airport.

The lobby at The Gates Hotel South Beach – decorated in beautiful soft pastels and plush furnishings. Image © Pat Bailey

The Gates Hotel South Beach, a Double Tree by Hilton property, is a quintessential Miami hotel.  You are greeted by the trademark smell of freshly baked cookies and welcomed into the modern hotel by way of a beautifully expansive lobby, lounge bar, guest gathering spot and outdoor pool, dining and lounge area. The décor is fresh and modern with pops of pastel colours, clean lines, lots of texture and cheeky local art that feels whimsical and very Miami.

The property has 235 guest rooms, including 17 suites. My room was ample, full of natural light, and I found the king-size bed to be a welcome reprieve at the end of each long day.

The Gates Hotel South Beach happily accommodates corporate guests as well as guests on holiday, there is plenty of meeting space both inside and outside. I particularly loved the rooftop decks at various levels outside.

Related: The Best Places to Visit on Mexico’s East Coast

Our modern, comfortable, light-filled room at The Gates Hotel South Beach. Image © Pat Bailey

Our cosy and comfortable room at The Gates Hotel in South Beach. Image © Pat Bailey

The bright, modern and chic interiors at The Gates Hotel Agaveros Cantina. Image © Pat Bailey

My favourite part about this stay and property was the vintage feel I got from the décor and the space. The pool area spans the entire outdoor courtyard and is flanked on all sides with cozy lounge areas decked in Miami colours. The outdoor bar is the perfect place to grab a drink any time, meals are served from Agaveros Cantina, the restaurant on property, both indoors and outside under stringed lights and poolside. I enjoyed breakfast by the pool one morning and had the pool all to myself.

The Gates Hotel South Beach is warm and welcoming. Image © Pat Bailey

The Lobby Bar at The Gates Hotel South Beach Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

The interiors at The Gates Hotel South Beach feature warm tones with modern strong accent colours. Image © Pat Bailey

Time out for some delicious cocktails at Pool Bar, The Gates Hotel South Beach. Image © Pat Bailey

Wynwood Walking Tour

I wouldn’t even dream of visiting Miami without a trip to the Wynwood Walls art walk. Be sure to carve out a whole day to explore this incredibly inspiring neighbourhood. In visits past, I have wandered the streets of Wynwood solo which has its advantages. This trip, I opted for a guided tour of Wynwood to learn more about the artists, the food, and the culture of the neighbourhood made famous by Art Basel.

Pat taking in some culture at the Wynwood Walls Art Walk. Image © Pat Bailey

The Wynwood Walls Art Walk is a must when visiting Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

I explored Wynwood with an incredibly charming and knowledgeable guide named Mirka from Miami Culinary Tours. We made our way through the painted streets stopping to gaze at the murals. We also experienced the variety of culinary offerings at the Wynwood restaurants including Wynwood Kitchen & Bar, where we tasted really incredible empanadas, GKB, where the ceviche and quinoa salad are amazing. 

Zak the Baker is a must-stop on a Wynwood Walls walking tour. Image © Pat Bailey

Zak the Baker was next up. It’s a bakery you must put on your list, serving heavenly Bourekas (I challenge you to have just one), Jimmy’s Kitchen, where I tried the house specialty Monfongo, and the grand finale, Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop & Cakes, where I feasted on the perfect key lime pie. This tour was a highlight of my trip and I highly recommend it.

Head to Fireman Derek’s Bake Shop and Cafe for some key lime pie. Image © Pat Bailey

Healthy Food in Miami

Joe and the Juice | Multiple Locations

I love how easy it is to be vegetarian in Miami and South Beach, and to eat healthy in general. One of my favourite local chains, Joe and the Juice is a short drive from The Gates South Beach and they serve beautiful sandwiches on a thin, cracker bread that is gluten-free and packed with healthy and organic goodness.

Get your day off to a healthy start by grabbing a fresh juice or smoothie from Joe and the Juice. Image © Pat Bailey

Raw Juice | 959 West Ave, Suite 13, Miami Beach

Before my Youfit workout I stopped at Raw Juice, a beautiful all natural, vegan and vegetarian café with the most beautiful dragon fruit “Papaya Bowl” and delicious fresh coconut water with hearty coconut meat floating in it – these are made fresh daily and I had one at the café and took another one to the gym for after my workout.

Organic Bites | 7010 Biscayne Blvd, Miami Beach

A stop at Organic Bites for breakfast, lunch or dinner is a great idea. This was my post workout brunch choice; I enjoyed a wheatgrass shot, fresh juices, and a delicious salad with an organic vegetable soup.

DIRT Miami | 232 5th St, Miami Beach

DIRT Miami is another favourite of mine, the farm-to-counter concept is casual and the eating is clean and organic. Definitely try the Dirty Vegan Bowl and the Avo-Kale Tostada, these are my favourite and so delicious.

A delicious healthy breakfast at Raw Juice, Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

Plnthouse | 1609, 2341 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

My last meal of this trip included one of the most delicious veggie burgers I’ve had in a long time, at Plnthouse located in 1 Hotel South Beach. This completely vegan restaurant has a menu that I have a hard time choosing from, the décor is Instagram-able and the outside terrace has a spectacular view of the beach and pool.

Related: 48 Hours in Chicago: A Local’s Guide on What to See and Do

Interiors inspiration aplenty awaits at Plnthouse located in 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

Staying Fit in Miami

Staying fit in Miami is easy, and studies show that Florida was one of two states last year that improved the most in the direction of health and fitness.

Youfit Health Clubs

Youfit Health Clubs, founded in Miami, is making fitness accessible to everyone. The community they have nurtured since opening the first gym has become a great testament to what can happen when you make your mission about people.

Learning some simple stretches at Youfit Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

It is impossible to be unhappy and unmotivated when you walk into a Youfit Health Club; by design in large part, the staff smiles, the space glows in its trademark lime green and purple, and every single person working out is happy to be there. This culture is intentional, and created from the bottom up. J.J. Creegan, who was once an employee picking up weights off of the gym floor is now the Chief Operating Officer and biggest champion for the now 113 gyms across 15 states, its members and his “home away from home,” and tribe. He literally has spent his lifetime putting his heart into this company, and you can feel this when you walk into each one of the Youfit locations.

James putting Pat through her paces at Youfit Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

A basic membership starts at just $USD10 per month and includes full access to the gym, making it very accessible. YouGX Group Exercise Classes include Zumba, Pilates, Yoga, Barre, Cardio Kickbox, Circuit Training, Cycle, and more. Members also have access to a personal YouCoach which includes a team of personal trainers that meet with members to assess their fitness level, goals and intentions and concerns and then they create a special fitness plan for the member utilising the gym and services available.

Sunrise yoga with Youfit during our stay in South Beach Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

I spent one morning with James, my YouCoach for the day, and I was so impressed with his patience and his knowledge about the body, various fitness modalities and nutrition. These were all important topics that we discussed during my private session with him. Because I identified heart health and cardio as one of my goals, he walked me through a handful of exercises while he watched me perform each one and made careful notes about alignment, my strengths and weaknesses and how each one made me feel. After our 30-minute session we discussed the plan and James showed me around the gym and shared his expertise for implementing the plan on a daily basis. This personal touch was a meaningful one. I’ve been guilty of joining gyms in the past and feeling overwhelmed with the options or unaware of what I should be doing and the memberships don’t last. At Youfit the goal is to keep members informed and inspired to create a personal fitness journey and stick with it, and the gyms and memberships come with personal cheerleaders to help you do this.

We were also treated to a sunrise yoga class during our stay in South Beach which was a beautiful and refreshing way to start the day.

Pat enjoying some yoga on the beach during her healthy escape to South Beach Miami. Image © Pat Bailey

This escape to South Beach Miami was a welcome getaway, a reminder that travelling can include healthy choices and fitness gains and even eating healthy can be easy and delicious when you are away from the comforts of home, especially in South Beach Miami.

 The Fit Traveller was a guest of Youfit Health Clubs for this trip to Miami. As always, our opinions, words and images are authentically our own.

Pat Russo

Pat Russo is a Mystic, Muse, and Spiritual Teacher guiding women into their hearts with a journey of softening. She is a published poet, a lover of hearts, and a forever student.

Feeling the impossibility of choosing between her two favorite cities, she considers San Francisco and Paris home.

www.patricia-russo.com/

Brittany Lillegard

Step into a world of instant relaxation at Float Sixty Chicago. Image © Float Sixty

Sensory Deprivation at Float Sixty, Chicago

After a friend had touted her positive experiences floating, I was excited to give it a try, so I visited a sensory deprivation float centre in Chicago called Float Sixty in the River North neighbourhood. The float centre had multiple tank options available in which participants could choose rooms that would allow them to have gentle light or music piped in while they were floating in small pools to the full sensory deprivation experience of floating in a small tank in complete darkness with no sound.

I opted for the full sensory deprivation experience and chose to float in the Samadhi Tank. Due to a product launch and prepping for upcoming travel, I arrived to my appointment sleep deprived and lacking energy (its advised to not consume caffeine 4 to 5 hours before your float, which was a huge challenge for this coffee addict) and unconvinced that anything could help me relax in that moment. While I do have a regular meditation practice, I was also incredibly nervous about whether or not I could handle having all of my senses deprived for such an extended period of time.

My nerves were calmed immediately though when I was greeted by my float guide, Emerson, whose energy was a wonderful mix of friendly, gentle, and zen. As someone who tries to float on a weekly basis, it left me curious how much of his relaxed energy was due to his regular time spent in the tank, and his calm demeanor and positive energy quickly quieted my nerves. After a tour of the facility including the two relaxation and meditation rooms I could use before or after my float, as well as a quick view of the other room and tank options available, I was led to my private space before being left with clear instructions on the process and tips for getting the most out of my first time including a reminder to relax, breathe, and just let go.

Related: 48 Hours in Chicago: A Local’s Guide on What to See and Do

I opted to float in the Samadhi tank for my first experience, which is the smallest, darkest, and quietest option available at Float Sixty Chicago. After a short period of adjustment, I quickly slipped into an ethereal experience in this tank. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Relax, Breathe, and Just Let Go

There was a private shower in my room where I cleansed and put in ear plugs before getting into the tank. To be honest, I had a really challenging time getting comfortable at first. While I knew that there was no way I could sink, I found myself resisting the float and carrying tension throughout my neck and glutes. After several minutes of deep breathing and changing positions (hands tucked behind my head became the winner!), I was finally able to let myself fully succumb to the water and relax, and it was bliss.

I have a regular meditation practice, but usually only meditate for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, so one of my main concerns was being able to handle a full sixty minute session. Fortunately, you always have the option of exiting the tank early which helped to ease those fears; however, when the tank gently started to churn water to signal that my session was over (and to turn over the water to keep the experience hygienic for the next guest), I was in such a meditative and blissful state that it felt like I had only been in my space for a short period of time. I’m still not quite sure where my body and mind went in those sixty minutes, but I came back into my space knowing that wherever they went, I wanted to visit again.

Getting out of the tank was an experience itself as I was slightly disoriented and after floating and feeling weightless for an hour, I felt as if I had a serious case of sea legs. After a warm shower to cleanse the salt off of my skin, I retreated to the meditation room to seek additional quietness, find myself in space again, and reflect on the experience.

Related: A Local’s Guide to Unique Places to Eat in Chicago

Post float reflections by participants displayed in one of Float Sixty’s meditation rooms. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Meditation and Reflection

In this space, Float Sixty provided a book to write about your experience or small sheets of paper to leave your thoughts in picture form. After browsing the hundreds of doodles and reading the words of other floaters before me, it became very clear that this had become a place of retreat for so many others who also find themselves consistently over-stimulated and victims of chronic stress in a non-stop world. On my walk back home, I too found myself carefree and blissful, oblivious of the fact that my sleep was lacking and I had felt significant stress just hours before. Its been three days since the experience and my sleep quality has been the best in years, my productivity has sky-rocketed, and my creative output has been bursting at the seams.

Related: 10 Simple Tips For Starting a Meditation Practice

Float Sixty Chicago offers a number of sensory deprivation tank options to suit your comfort level. Image © Float Sixty

Tips For Your First Sensory Deprivation Experience

If you are considering your first float session, you can make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable by following a few rules before your session.

• Skip shaving for a day prior as the highly salinated tanks can cause irritation on open skin.
• To help yourself relax, avoiding caffeine, consuming lighter food options during the day and fasting for a few hours before can help ensure that you are able to fully enjoy the experience.
• It took me a bit of time to find my groove in the tank, but trying different positions finally helped me settle into one that worked best for me, so don’t be afraid to experiment or get frustrated if it doesn’t feel right immediately.
• If you’re concerned about taking on the full deprivation experience initially, consider one of the larger tanks, or small rooms with pools where you can choose to have a gentle light on or music sent into your space.
• Most importantly, go into the experience with an open mind and give yourself permission to relax, let go, and sink into your bliss.

Brittany Lillegard

Brittany is a traveling strength coach and yoga instructor from Chicago. She fuses her travel stories with her coaching background to help inspire and empower women to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and to take charge of creating their own adventures.

She thrives off of coffee and wine, prefers to spend her days barefoot, and when she isn’t coaching or working on her handstand skills, she can be found plotting her next adventure.

Brittany Lillegard

This hot dog mural (located in the alley behind the Greetings mural) is an homage to the humble food item that is so engrained in Chicago’s culture and history. I recommend making ordering your dog “Chicago Style”, but however you order it, honour the locals by skipping the ketchup on your dog. Image © Brittany Lillegard

I have been telling people for years that Chicago is the best food city in America, and have even risked a few scuffles standing my ground with residents of other American cities that shall not be named. When both Conde Nast and Bon Appetit Magazines announced Chicago as the best restaurant city in America, it thrilled me that people were finally catching on. Known for dishes such as deep dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, the sweet and salty Garret Mix at Garret’s popcorn, and ketchup-free hot dogs (preferably all-beef, wrapped in a steamed poppy seed bun and topped with yellow mustard, onion, tomato, neon green relish, a dill pickle spear, a dash of celery salt and pickled sport pepper), residents of this city are just as comfortable in a fine dining setting as they are eating hot dogs in baseball caps and t-shirts. No matter how casual or high-end you choose to dine though, you will definitely want to spend some time eating your way through these must-try restaurants in Chicago.

Heritage Bicycles General Store is a great place to dream about your custom bicycle, grab a cup of coffee, and take a quick photo shoot in front of the mural honouring the 2016 World Series Champions, the Chicago Cubs. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Unique Places to Eat in Chicago

Heritage Bicycles General Store | Multiple Locations

Not only will you find my favourite cup of brew in the city at this location, but you can also get your bicycle serviced or have them build your dreamiest custom bicycle here too. The recently expanded original Lakeview location is an inviting space with beautiful natural lighting and a seriously friendly and knowledgable group of baristas. When you visit, don’t forget to leave the staff and fellow customers a love note on their old school typewriter and take a photo in front of the mural outside celebrating the 2016 World Series Champions, the Chicago Cubs. Can’t make it to Lakeview? You’re in luck as the Heritage family is quickly taking over the city (that’s a great thing) and have additional locations around the city.

A large mural painted on the side of Ipsento 606, which serves as the perfect coffee stop while you are taking in city views from the 606 Trail. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Ipsento | Multiple Locations 

The original Ipsento location is a ridiculously cozy space that feels so much like home that you will be able to hunker down here for hours. Their second location, Ipsento 606, conveniently located right off the 606 trail, makes a great pitstop when you’re checking out the elevated outdoor park. I’m usually a black coffee kind of gal, but I have to admit that the Ipsento Latte, which is a concoction of coconut and dairy milk, cayenne pepper, honey, and espresso is dreamy enough to make me cheat on my usual coffee order every single time. At the 606 location, I dare you to resist ordering the adorable mini donuts that are conveniently located at eye level, right next to the registers.

Beermiscuous feels like a home away from home with one of the largest selections of craft beer in Chicago. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Beermiscuous | 2812 N Lincoln Avenue

Full Disclosure: I spent so much time here when I lived in the city, that I ended up working behind the counter as a Beerista before I left the city life behind to become a nomad. This beer cafe which feels like a home away from home boasts one of the largest selections of craft beer in Chicago and the general manager, Austin, might just be one of the most knowledgable beer experts stateside. I highly recommend heading in a on Wednesday when beer flights are half-off and nagging the seats by the cozy fireplace while you settle in for the evening. If you want to explore more of the Chicago beer scene, you will also want to grab a copy of the Beermiscuous Field Guide to Chicago Breweries on your way out and use it to help guide you as your tour Chicago’s best breweries.

The famous Oatmeal Shake is a must-try at Chicago’s vibrant and colourful Irazu Costa Rican Restaurant. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Irazu | 1865 N Milwaukee Avenue

A Chicago institution and one of the best places to eat in Chicago, Irazu serves up some seriously delicious Costa Rican food with a colourful and exciting vibe. The food here may look simple, but don’t let the simplicity fool you – every dish here is packed with vibrant flavour. I also have to confess I always order two meals when I visit – one for dinner and one to take home for the next day. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but my standard go-to is the Vegetarian Plate with an extra side of plantains and the Oatmeal Shake, and trust me, you’ll want to order the oatmeal shake. Pro tip: Irazu is cash only and while there is an ATM inside, it is best to come prepared.

Piece Pizzeria | 1927 W North Avenue

Everyone comes to Chicago wanting to indulge in the city’s famous deep dish pizza, but I have a little secret for you – we are actually a city of thin crust lovers. My personal favourite pie in the city can be found at Piece Pizzeria and Brewery, and this also happens to be my welcome home meal every single time I return. A standard go-to spot for most Chicagoans, you’ll want to get here for an early dinner, even on weekdays, if you don’t want to wait in line. Top your pizza as you wish, but I happen to think that giardenira, a favourite pizza topping among locals, and Hot Doug’s Atomic Sausage is the dreamiest combo available. The world-famous Hot Doug’s Sausage Shop no longer exists (it took a little piece of my heart with it when it closed), but it is reassuring to know that you can still get a little taste of Chicago history with the atomic sausage that the famous encased meats guru, Doug Sohn, created specifically for Piece’s pies.

For seasonal American fare in a casual yet elegant neighbourhood setting, the White Oak Tavern and Inn is for you. Image © Brittany Lillegard

White Oak Inn + Tavern | 1200 W Webster Avenue

If you are looking for quality and seasonal American fare in a casual yet elegant neighbourhood setting, this is your place. More importantly though, this spot is home to my favourite Bloody Mary in the city (ask for it spicy) and if you’re stopping by for brunch, you would be remiss to skip the Cinnamon Roll. If you’re lucky enough to run into the owner, John, while you are there you can be assured that you will also be granted with some good conversation and the best dad jokes around. If you really want a neighbourhood experience, the Sunny Inn upstairs is available for vacation rentals and comes equipped with a ping pong table and skyline views.

Gilt Bar Chicago | 230 W Kinzie Street

Sister restaurant, Au Cheval, typically gets all of the attention these days, but Gilt Bar will always be my favourite in this well-known Chicago restaurant empire. Their small plates focused menu means the more friends you bring along, the more you get to sample. I highly recommend making sure the Roasted Bone Marrow ends up on your table and washing it down with a gin martini made with North Shore gin, one of the first of Chicago’s craft distilleries that helped pave the way for the extensive local spirits scene that exists today. To officially leave your mark on the Windy City, don’t forget to hit up the photo booth downstairs and pin your photo strip in the hallway (rumour has it, my face might be gracing the walls a few times). Insider’s Tip: In the same building, you’ll find the Doughnut Vault window that was partially responsible for launching Chicago into a donut craze a few years ago. The window has outlasted the trend, but this is still one of the best spots to start your day in Chicago. Get here early though because once they sell out, they close up shop for the day.

From the archives: The menu from my first time dining at El Ideas in 2012. The unique Michelin Star restaurant has changed a few things since then, but still offers diners creative fine dining in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Image © Brittany Lillegard

El Ideas | 2419 W 14th Street

Chicago boasts 26 Michelin stars and I can proudly say that I have sampled most of them for you, but if you are short on time or money, El Ideas, hands down is my favourite of them as one of the most unique places to eat in Chicago. After breaking up with one of Chicago’s classiest hotels, Chef Phillip Foss wandered the city for a few years in his first child, the Meatyball food truck. Meatyballs and the Chicago food truck scene never quite took off (RIP), but Chef Foss will still make you blush with his humour at his current space, El Ideas, where you will taste some of the most creative and delicious dishes in quite possibly the most fun and unpretentious fine dining setting you will ever find. The small space is structured such that diners are seated in view of the kitchen making them witnesses to the culinary magic that usually takes place behind the scenes. Courses are frequently delivered to the tables by Foss himself, and while you can guarantee that the food is of fine dining quality, don’t be surprised if you’re encouraged to forgo the utensils and use your hands or even have to lick the plate. This unique and memorable experience might just be one of the most fun dining experiences in the world and is not to miss on your Chicago visit.

Brittany Lillegard

Brittany is a traveling strength coach and yoga instructor from Chicago. She fuses her travel stories with her coaching background to help inspire and empower women to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and to take charge of creating their own adventures.

She thrives off of coffee and wine, prefers to spend her days barefoot, and when she isn’t coaching or working on her handstand skills, she can be found plotting her next adventure.

Brittany Lillegard

Local Midwestern crooners, Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts, performing at the intimate venue space in Schuba’s Tavern, which is located in a former Schlitz Tavern. Image © Brittany Lillegard

How to Spend Two Days in Chicago

Chicago’s Live Music Scene

Chicago is a city of music lovers and between the multitude of venues and summer festivals such as Lollapalooza, Blues Festival, Pitchfork and others, there is guaranteed to be a show during your stay, that will get your ears buzzing. When I’m home though, you will likely find me at one of my two personal favourite venues: Schuba’s or The Green Mill.

Schuba’s Tavern | 3159 N Southport Avenue

Not being one who is fond of large crowds, the intimate space at Schuba’s is the perfect venue size for me. In addition to a cozy space, The Schuba brothers are well-known around the city for sourcing some of the best acts in music to play at their venues (they also have a second, larger location called Lincoln Hall), and I can never say no to a pre-dinner Mac and Cheese and PBR at the restaurant at the front of the venue. The building itself is a former Schlitz Tavern, which is also a nice little slice of Chicago history.

The Green Mill | 4802 N Broadway Avenue

If you want to take a step back into the days of the Chicago mob, then this venue which was a favourite of well-known gangster, Al Capone, is a must visit. The jazz and cocktail club still has a lot of its original charm, and ordering a Manhattan to sip alongside one of the nightly jazz acts or poetry slams is always a good way to spend the evening. Insider’s Tip: The lounge doesn’t serve food, but the small, no frills taco stand around the corner is a great place to grab a quick bite before the show. If you are a bold eater, I happen to think this taco stand serves the best Lengua tacos in town.

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Known for having one of the most recognizable skylines in the world, Chicago’s ample outdoor spaces will give you multiple vantage points for taking in the tall architecture of the city. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Chicago’s Architecture

Home to the world’s first skyscraper and one of the tallest and most well-known skylines in the world, Chicago is an architecture lover’s paradise and narrowing down my favourites was a tough task. The Willis Tower, which was the tallest building in the world for twenty-five years, frequently makes it on every traveler’s list, but you should know that the locals still stubbornly refer to it by its former name, The Sears Tower.

I didn’t include it on my list of must see locations, because personally, I prefer the view from the Signature Lounge at the top of the Hancock Tower (and the fact that I can take in the views while enjoying a cocktail). Insider’s Tip: If The Sears Tower is on your must-see list though, I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance to save yourself some time in line.

Save up to 30% on hotels in Chicago

The ceiling of the Rookery lobby, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is an excellent example of Chicago’s well-known architecture. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Rookery Building Lobby | 209 S. Lasalle Street

I have been inside the lobby of the famous Rookery building more times than I can count, and the interior still romances me as much as the first time. Designed by the famous Burnham and Root firm in the late 1800’s, the lobby was remodelled by Frank Lake Wright a few decades later and it is an impressive example of why Chicago is so well-known in the architecture world. You can take in the delicious light that is captured on the lobby on your own, but you won’t be able to go past the main entrance without booking a tour. Thirty minute guided tours can be booked through the Frank Lloyd Right Trust here.

Optimo Hats is one of the many artisan shops housed in the first floor of the Monadnock Building, where the preserved architecture will transport you to a different era. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Monadnock Building | 53 West Jackson Boulevard

Admittedly, the exterior makes it a bit easy to walk past the Monadnock without blinking an eye, but once inside, brace yourself to be transported to decades past. Constructed in the late 1800’s by Burnham and Root, only the first floor is open to the public but you can spend quite some time taking in all of the preserved architectural details.

Home to several companies that are keeping their craft old school, you will be able to pick out the perfect wool fedora, custom design the perfect suit, get an old-fashioned shave at the barber’s, or take a break to read the news while getting a shoe shine.

For a refreshment break, you can also get a hand poured coffee in the Intelligentsia Coffee Shop where the suspender-clad baristas dress the part, or belly up to the bar in Cavanaugh’s, where you are likely to run into locals enjoying an after work happy hour.

A beautiful curved doorway on one of the many mansions that lines Astor Street. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Astor Street | Few blocks west of Lakeshore Dr between Division St and North Blvd

Lining both sides of Astor Street you will find several remarkable 19th century mansions that have been home to many of Chicago’s elite over the city’s colored history.  It is well worth spending a few hours taking a leisurely stroll down the street, but make sure to keep your eyes wide open so as not to miss the many small architectural details that make these homes so impressive.

You will find some early Frank Lloyd Wright touches on this street, as well as unexpected surprises like a well-preserved wooden alley from the early 1900’s. In the area, you can also stroll past the original Playboy mansion (1340 N State Pkwy) or finish your walk with an afternoon tea session at the Drake Hotel which is well-known for its famous neon pink sign as well as the many famous guests it has been privy to host including Princess Diana, Frank Sinatra, and Winston Churchill to name a few.

After all of the walking you will be doing, a stop at the Shoe Hospital, located in the Monadnock Building, will give you an opportunity to rest your feet and give your shoes a face lift. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Outdoor Spaces and Parks

The 606 Trail | Multiple Entrances

The 606 Trail is 4.3 KM of old elevated train tracks that have been repurposed as an outdoor trail space and public park. If you want to explore the city while being active, this relatively new space happens to be my favourite way to do so and is continually transformed and improved year after year. You will find both running tracks and ample space to bike with skyline views, art installations, and beautiful landscaping along the path. If you need a quick break, make sure to check out one of my favourite coffee shops, Ipsento 606, located just off the Milwaukee exit.

The 606 Trail, a former elevated train track transformed into a public outdoor space, offers 4.3 KM of running and biking trails where you can take in classic city views while getting in your workout for the day. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Chicago Lakefront Trail

Being inland, people tend to forget that Chicago is home to several beaches and an extensive lakefront trail (29 km to be exact) thanks to its location on the impressive Lake Michigan. If it is a good weather day, you can guarantee that locals will be flocking to the beaches and taking advantage of the lakefront paths.

For some of the best city views, I recommend starting at the south end at Northely Island Park, following the trail north around the museum campus, and continuing to head north towards Lincoln Park. Whether you decide to bike, run, or walk the path, this is one of the best ways to take in the skyline.

Garfield Park Conservatory

As one of the largest conservatories in the US, this free attraction is one of my favourite stops in Chicago. Home to multiple indoor and outdoor gardens and frequently called “landscape art under glass”, the architecture is just as impressive as the gardens housed within. While open year round, I highly recommend visiting during the summer months when you can also take in the outdoor gardens that span nearly twelve acres of ground.

Essential Acupuncture’s waiting room is a sleek and inviting space that will make you feel zen even before you have received your service. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Where to Pamper Yourself in Chicago

The best way to explore the city is definitely by foot, even if you only have two days in Chicago. But, it’s very possible that after so much eating and walking, you’ll want some time to relax and unwind. Below are my favourite places in the city to bliss out after a day of exploring.

Allyu Spa

Once you enter the doors of Allyu Spa you will forget that you are in the middle of a sprawling urban city. You can’t go wrong choosing any of the bodywork or skin care services that Allyu has to offer, but make sure to get to get to your appointment early so you have ample time to enjoy your complimentary tea in the meditation room, which in my opinion, is the most zen space in all of Chicago.

Essential Acupuncture

In addition to acupuncture, you will find a wide variety of holistic services here including cupping, gua sha and classic Chinese herbalism.  On your first visit, you can expect a consultation to determine the best treatment for your needs and all services are warmly delivered by the passionate and knowledgable owners, Siri and Leigh. The perfectly minimalistic space is both welcoming and calm, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to return for multiple services during your Chicago visit.

Intuit Massage and Healing

Being one of my favourite self-care routines, I have had quite a few massages in my life, and Cameron of Intuit Massage happens to have the most magical hands I have come across in entire world. Her extensive knowledge of the human body coupled with her experience in blending both eastern and western massage techniques will leave you feeling blissed out and wishing you had booked the maximum massage time possible.

In addition to bodywork, Cameron also offers energy work to help you fully realign your mind, body, and spirit. Insider’s tip: Intuit Massage just so happens to be based in Essential Acupunctures space, so for a truly blissed out evening, I recommend booking an acupuncture session with Essential right after your massage.

Float Sixty Chicago

Life in the urban city can be hectic, but you will feel like you’re walking on clouds after just one session in Float Sixty’s sensory deprivation tanks. Floating involves immersing yourself in a small tank of body temperature salt water without any external noise or light providing the floater with an unparalleled meditative experience.

If you are not ready for a full-blown sensory deprivation experience, Float Sixty Chicago offers multiple options to test out the waters including larger rooms with ambient lighting and sound options as well as two meditation rooms that can be used before and after your experience.

In addition to multiple sensory deprivation tank options, Float Sixty Chicago also offers two meditation rooms where you can reflect on your experience or leave notes for future floaters. Image © Brittany Lillegard

Brittany Lillegard

Brittany is a traveling strength coach and yoga instructor from Chicago. She fuses her travel stories with her coaching background to help inspire and empower women to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and to take charge of creating their own adventures.

She thrives off of coffee and wine, prefers to spend her days barefoot, and when she isn’t coaching or working on her handstand skills, she can be found plotting her next adventure.