New York Archives - Page 24 of 27

Exploring DUMBO

January 25, 2019

NYC, Style Blog, J. Crew, Navy, Stripes, DUMBO, Brooklyn

Tee || Pants || Jacket || Sneakers || Sunglasses

It seems a little crazy that it took David and I almost 6 months of living in Manhattan to make our way to DUMBO, but some things are just worth the wait. What started as a cold and overcast day quickly turned into one of my favorite days of exploring our new city.

I would definitely call the DUMBO area of Brooklyn a trek from our corner of the Upper East Side. That’s why we woke up at the crack of dawn to make the most of our trip. I would also highly recommend if you’re looking for unobstructed views of the iconic Manhattan Bridge. You know the one… the shot that every single person wants to get when they visit the city. We got to the corner of Washington and Water around 8:30 in the morning and a crowd was just beginning to form. When we walked by again at around 11:30, the place was packed!

While you’re in the area, be sure to take the time to also walk along Brooklyn Bridge Park and really take in the views of the city. Even though it was cloud and cold, the views of the Manhattan skyline were amazing. I can’t wait to get back there on a clear day or, better yet, at night!

After our walk through the park and letting ourselves get lost among the converted warehouses, we had a quick breakfast at the Café Archway. It’s a small spot right next to the Manhattan Bridge and served up some delicious baked eggs. David loved his egg sandwich, and he’s sometimes a tough critic when it comes to breakfast.

This monochromatic navy style made for the perfect ensemble for sight-seeing. My navy peacoat, from LOFT, has been a winter staple and does a fantastic job of keeping this Florida girl warm. My trusty Tretorn sneakers are the comfiest shoes I own and are very handy when putting in the miles around the city.

Love from NYC,
Katie

NYC Direct Beach Getaways

January 16, 2019

NYC Style Blogger, Beach Getaway, Travel Blogger, Wanderlust, Beach Style

Similar Swimsuit || Scarf || Sunglasses

We’re right in the middle of Winter and all I can do is dream about my next warm weather getaway. I was spoiled rotten living in Florida. I didn’t have to go anywhere to get a beach day in January or February, I was already there! I’m sure I’m not the only Northern gal thinking this way and I’ve done some research for you so you don’t have to. There are oodles of direct-flight destinations for you to choose from.

Bermuda (JFK to BDA): For being an international destination, this spot couldn’t be easier to get to. Just a quick 2 1/2 hours separates you from this gorgeous island. David and I will be heading here for a long weekend in less than a month. Don’t worry, I’ll be sure to share all of the details.
Palm Beach (EWR or JFK to PBI): Who said beach vacations have to be out of the US? My love for Palm Beach has been no secret since I spent a weekend there with my girlfriends (posted here). It’s a quiet little town that will give you the exact kind of R&R you’re looking for.
Tulum (JFK to CUN): Okay, so this spot requires a flight to Cancun and a two hour drive down the coast, but I just had to include it on my list. This Mexican town on the Gulf Coast seems like a bohemian dream and I talk about going there at least once a month!
Puerto Rico (JFK to SJU): Another sunny destination that (surprisingly) doesn’t require a passport. Because Puerto Rico is a US Commonwealth, you get all the perks of the Caribbean without having to go through customs. David and I went on a trip here a few years ago and we can’t wait to go back.

Aruba (JFK or EWR to AUA): I personally have never been to Aruba, but many of my co-workers go every year, so it must be good! Just the sound of Aruba sounds like the prime example for a beach getaway. Que The Beach Boys.
Miami (LGA, EWR, or JFK to MIA): If you want one more domestic vacation that has a little bit more of the party scene, Miami may be the choice for you. Being another major US city, there are multiple, inexpensive flights daily from all three of the local airports.
Barbados (JFK to BGI): Honestly, is there anywhere Jet Blue doesn’t fly? When planning our February trip, Barbados the number two favorite. The only issue I had was that the flight was a little too long for a long weekend. If you have the chance for a longer trip, this may be the destination for you.

Just talking about all of these vacation spots is giving me major wanderlust. I’m always open to adding more places to my travel bucket list. If you have any other recommendations, be sure to leave a comment below and happy traveling!

Love from NYC,
Katie

City Guide: Dunedin, FL

January 8, 2019

NYC Style Blogger, Travel Blogger, City Guide, Dunedin, Lilly Pulitzer, After Party Sale

Tee || Similar Shorts || Sandals || Bag || Sunglasses

If I was still living in Florida, I don’t think I would have ever written this… a city guide for Dunedin. It’s an a quaint, little town on the Gulf Coast of Florida, but more importantly it’s where I grew up. It’s a little challenging to play tour guide in your hometown, but since I’ve moved away and revisited during the holidays, I’m finally able to see things in a different light.

Like I said, Dunedin is a small town (population, about 35,000), but so much is offered in a tiny punch. With famous Clearwater Beach right next door, most visitors don’t even know that just a few miles away is this up-and-coming coastal town. I’m here to serve as their unofficial spokesperson and fix that for you.

Where To Stay:

The Fenway Hotel: Although there a handful of hotels near the small downtown area, this gem should be on the top of your list! Originally built in 1927, the hotel was reopened in October with a fresh new face. I had the chance to stop by while I was in town and I can’t wait to book my stay. A quiet pool area, rooftop bar, and the best views of the water are just some of the perks you’ll find while staying here.

Where To Eat:

The Living Room: As the name implies, you’ll feel right at home at this little spot on Main Street. David and I have eaten here many times, but never once had a bad meal. The menu seems endless and everything is cooked to perfection.
Casa Tina: This is the Mexican restaurant to end all Mexican restaurants! Even in NYC, where I have so much cuisine at my fingertips, I still think back to their enchiladas verdes.
Sea Sea Riders: While you’re in Florida, it only makes sense to have at least one ‘Old Florida’ inspired meal. My parents have been eating here for as long as they’ve been open, so they’ve seen how much this place has changed for the better. Be sure to stop by this turquoise cracker-style house right on Main Street for a perfect example of what Florida cooking tastes like.
Frenchy’s Outpost: A little bit up the road from the downtown area, you’ll find yourself at the Dunedin Causeway. It will lead you to one of America’s top beaches, but if you’re looking for something to eat, be sure to make it Frenchy’s. The original location is still on Clearwater Beach, but the ‘Outpost’ is where locals go to get their fill of Grouper Sandwiches and Smoked Fished Dip. Again, two more Gulf Coast staples.
Strachan’s Ice Cream: What fun is visiting a new town if you can’t have some dessert to wash it down? If you can think of a flavor, Strachan’s can probably make that happen. Right in the heart of downtown, this place has been making the homemade ice cream of my childhood since 1999.

Where To Drink:

Art Smart Coffee: You’ll be hard pressed to find a Starbucks in Dunedin. I think there’s only one that just opened last year. That’s okay though, because Art Smart is the best coffee you will find. I don’t know what they do to it, but I promise you their iced coffee is out of this world!
Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar: Right back at the Fenway Hotel, is the Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar. Originally home to a local radio station, this spot gives you the most amazing views of those epic Gulf Coast sunsets that we all love. Enjoy one of their many local beers on tap, or a rum runner, and kick back to watch the colors fly.
Dunedin Brewery: For being such a tiny town, Dunedin has a crazy number of breweries. All of them have their own flair and character, but make Dunedin Brewery at the top of your list. It’s actually the oldest microbrewery in the state of Florida, but also offers a yummy food menu and live music almost every day.

What To Do:

Caladesi and Honeymoon Island: Like I said before, Dunedin is home to one of the top beaches in America! Caladesi Island is absolutely beautiful, but to get there you’ll have to get through Honeymoon Island. Honeymoon was “my beach” growing up. It will quickly become your favorite, especially if you want to get away from all the tourism at some of the other nearby beaches.
Dunedin Blue Jays: Because Dunedin has perfect weather, pretty much, year round, it is also home to this minor league team. An affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, their stadium is a quick walk from downtown, but still gives you all the feels of America’s pass time for a fraction of the cost.

If you are looking for a quiet escape, Dunedin may be the perfect town for you. Every corner of this city is cared for and loved. There is just so much to explore and I can’t wait for you to get to know my hometown soon!

Love from NYC,
Katie