A Boutique Hotel Lover’s Guide to New Orleans

A Boutique Hotel Lover’s Guide to New Orleans

I’ve been delighted by the evolution of NOLA’s boutique hotel landscape in recent years. Design-minded hoteliers and creative entrepreneurs have created dreamy hideaways in historic buildings in compelling neighborhoods beyond the French Quarter. These five boutique hotels currently top my list of where to stay and play in NOLA…

The Buck Stops Here

The Buck Stops Here

New Cuyama is the Central Coast’s true “Wild West” in spirit. Unassumingly tucked away along Santa Barbara County’s far eastern edge, the under-the-radar, sparsely populated high desert community saddles the rugged, undiscovered borders of Santa Barbara, Kern, San Luis Obispo and Ventura Counties. Known as the “Hidden Valley of Enchantment,” the Cuyama Valley is ensconced by the dramatic Sierra Madre Mountains and the La Panza and Caliente Mountain Ranges. This unique crossroads and distinctive geography create a strangely unfamiliar sense of place ripe for exploration.

A Seafood Lover’s Guide to Portland Maine

A Seafood Lover’s Guide to Portland Maine

The waters of Maine yield some of the nation’s best seafood, and the bustling maritime hub of Portland is the epicenter of the state’s culinary scene. I spent four delicious summer days eating my way through the harbor town, devouring pristine oysters, tender chunks of lobster meat, fresh seasonal crab, Maine mussels and more inspired fare. These restaurants proved that Portland is a true pescatarian paradise.

Farmhouse Inn in Sonoma

Farmhouse Inn in Sonoma

Perched on six acres, Farmhouse Inn & Restaurant in Forestville is the perfect place to base a Sonoma County adventure. The intimate 25-room property continually ranks among the best hotels in the country thanks to its impeccable hospitality, well-appointed rooms and Michelin-starred restaurant. The central location makes it a convenient base for exploring all sides of Sonoma, while enjoying the homey feel of a countryside retreat. Owned and operated by a brother-sister duo whose family has been farming in Sonoma County for five generations, the cheerful staff make you feel like part of their extended family from check-in through check-out. 

Charleston is for Eaters

Charleston is for Eaters

Charleston is a dream destination for recreational diners. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced such a concentration of truly amazing restaurants in a city of this size anywhere else in the United States. Last March, I spent four days devouring Charleston with my friend Jenny on an adult-style spring break. And let me tell you, adulting in Charleston is incredibly delicious. I can’t wait to do it again.

Down East on the Coast of Maine

Down East on the Coast of Maine

Given Maine’s coastline is technically larger than that of California’s, four nights and five days road tripping down east barely allows you to scratch the surface—as I discovered on a recent visit. Vacationland’s craggy shoreline is made up of beaches, bays, peninsulas and inlets and a network of more than 4,600 islands, so the opportunities to be on the water are indeed endless. The landscape of forests and farmlands is lush and green. The charming and hospitable small towns exude that classic New England vibe and serve up fresh-as-it-gets seafood. Hello, lobster rolls and oysters!