Travel Archives - Page 74 of 84

Welcome to the Hamilton Princess

February 19, 2019

Hello dear readers! I may be back in NYC, but I’m so thankful for a long weekend escape with David to Bermuda. It was our first visit to the island, but I know we will back very soon. Any trip that leaves me feeling this relaxed and recharged will always warrant a return trip.

After a long time of coveting, I’m finally able to cross off another hotel from my bucket list. The Hamilton Princess is known as the ‘OG Millenial Pink’ Hotel, but it is so much more than that.

Originally opening in 1885, this hotel has played host to royalty and novelists alike. Nowadays, it sparks the imagination of travelers all over the world who need some rest and relaxation.

Every inch of this sprawling hotel is absolutely pristine and oh-so Instagram worthy. The pink exterior is accented by the impossibly green landscape to epitomize a tropical destination. Situated right on Hamilton Harbor, you also have a front-row seat to a stunning sunset along their marina. While we were guests, we were treated to the most beautiful sunset I’ve ever seen. Having grown up on the Gulf Coast of Florida, I don’t give that rating lightly.

With the Hamilton Princess, you’re going to get the best of both worlds. Just a quick stroll from downtown Hamilton, you have access to some of the best shopping on the island. If you’re wanting to take in the gorgeous beaches that Bermuda is known for, be sure to take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary jitney bus. In 20 minutes, you’ll find yourself at their exclusive Princess Beach Club, a private cove reserved just for Hamilton Princess guests.

Other amenities at the hotel include a full service spa, shopping, and two waterfront pools. My personal favorite is the infinity pool that overlooks the harbor. It’s the perfect spot to sunbathe and sip a Rum Swizzle, one of the island’s signature cocktails.

No resort would be complete without at least one restaurant and the Hamilton Princess is home to three! Marcus’ is the only celebrity restaurant on the island and the spot we frequented the most often. They have an extensive menu of island inspired bites and their Rum Swizzles are perfection. You can also stop by Crown & Anchor for their afternoon tea or 1609 for waterfront dining. Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong!

It would be so wrong of me to talk about the Hamilton Princess without mentioning their extensive art collection. Sometimes looking more like a museum than a hotel, an eclectic mix of pieces are featured all around the grounds. Take in the Warhol and Banksy by joining the hotel’s complimentary guided tour.

I’ve practically written a novel about this hotel and I honestly have so much more I could say. To save you time, and ruin the fun, I have to recommend staying at this palace for yourself. It is truly a place to write home about and will have my heart forever. I can’t wait to go back! If you have any specific questions, be sure to comment below.

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

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