WILD & FREE: A SOLO TRAVEL STORY
When you travel solo you open yourself up to connecting with other travellers. Often fellow solo-adventurers will be drawn to one another like magnets. In only a matter of weeks, I have met a plethora of people from all over the world, many of whom I will stay in contact with. Adventuring proves to be a domino effect, from one undertaking sparks another. With the connections I have made there is a now a whole new box of adventures waiting to happen in far-off places
Image by Nicole Geri
LESSONS LEARNED FROM TRAVELING SOLO
Words | Delila Bevan Zavadsky
Delila Bevan Zavadsky is an Australian freelance writer with a Bachelor in Creative and Professional Writing. In 2019, Delila was long-listed for the ‘Australian Richell Prize for Emerging Writers’, which was awarded based on the beginning chapters of her working novel. Delila has a passion for health, travel, and discovering the beauty that the world has to offer.
The idea of solo travel has always filled me with equal parts excitement and trepidation. As I neared the end of my creative writing degree, I began pining for a sense of freedom which I felt could only be truly instigated by adventuring alone. In my final year of study, I started planning my first solo travel for the following year: backpacking around Europe. I envisaged myself sprawled on the glittering sands of Grecian beaches, hiking into the hills of the Scottish Highlands, and driving past the picturesque vistas unique to Tuscany. As the date of my departure drew closer, butterflies swarmed in my stomach. This was it. I would be off and away in a matter of weeks with only my backpack as company; sure, I was going to meet fellow travellers along the way but, for the most part, I was going to be entirely independent. However, as the world plummeted into chaos, and international travel became a mere mirage on distant horizons, the butterflies were stopped mid-flight, their wings slowly disintegrating into the dust of a once realised dream. After wallowing in self-pity, I was forced back to the drawing board. The more I consulted the guidebooks, the more I realised there was so much that I hadn’t yet seen in Australia. Slowly, my European travel plans were cast aside in favour of a trip in my very own backyard. Looking back on a recent solo-stint along the East-Coast, I can happily say that I discovered freedom in a time of restriction. From swimming metres away from a dolphin, to careening through sand dunes on a quad, this trip has further fuelled my fever for adventure. But not only that. In a matter of weeks, I have also grown closer to myself in more ways than I could have imagined. If you’ve ever considered traversing the globe solo, then I hope that in sharing the many benefits I discovered from my adventures, you will be encouraged to set off on your very own solitary expedition.
You gain a whole lot of confidence
“Traveling alone teaches us to trust in our own decisions and instigates a strong confidence within.”
There is something especially daunting about setting off on an adventure without a familiar face by your side. When you travel alone you surrender to complete self-reliance. For many of us who are used to consulting others for immediate advice, the idea of not having someone to turn to is plain anxiety inducing. Travelling alone teaches us to trust in our own decisions and instigates a strong confidence within. I would be lying if I said there weren’t moments of discomfort. Like anyone that you spend too much time with, it can be hard spending copious amounts of time in your own head. But when the discomfort does set in, it is important to regard it as a powerful tool to work through things and get to know yourself better. If you aren’t venturing too far off the beaten track, then there are always other travellers to connect with. The beauty of travelling alone is that you can immerse yourself in a strong social scene, or you can retreat into your own solitary cocoon. Hostels are a hub for people with a common goal: to see the world and meet other like-minded souls. In general, I found that people were therefore open to connecting. Striking up conversation with a complete stranger can be nerve-wracking, but as time went on I gained much more confidence in my ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Image by Caleb Russell
You get to call the shots
When you travel by yourself the only person you need to take into consideration is you. Sure, you probably wouldn’t want to live your life entire like this, but for periods of time this can be utterly liberating. You don’t need to confer with friends over breakfast, or how the day should take shape, and you don’t need to compromise eating Mexican when everyone else feels like Italian. Travelling solo allows you to be in charge of your every move and to say ‘yes’ to any opportunity sent your way. There were times during my travel where I would check into a hostel for the night with no idea how my next few days would take shape. Suddenly, I’d find myself invited to join in on other people’s expeditions and it took me to places that I would have struggled to conjure up in my wildest dreams. A weekend in Noosa ended up with me tagging along to Fraser Island with a group of other travellers, where I found myself in a seaplane soaring over topaz seas. While another spontaneous trip found me in Moreton Island, where I got to witness wild dolphins swimming each night to the jetty for food. Watching the calves chasing each other under translucent water was an experience I am not soon to forget.
At times constantly calling the shots can be tiring if you have a naturally indecisive nature like me. I found myself occasionally wishing that someone else could step in and relieve me of my decision-making duties for just one day. In these times, I was forced to stand back and truly listen in on myself and what felt right in that moment. Fear not though, if you really are having a bout of decision fatigue there’s always someone to lend a helping hand, whether that’s a tour company who can point you in the right direction, or the waitress at a café who helps you choose between menu items.
Image by Tim Bennett
You meet friends from all over the globe
When you travel solo you open yourself up to connecting with other travellers. Often fellow solo-adventurers will be drawn to one another like magnets. In only a matter of weeks, I have met a plethora of people from all over the world, many of whom I will stay in contact with. Adventuring proves to be a domino effect, from one undertaking sparks another. With the connections I have made there is a now a whole new box of adventures waiting to happen in far-off places. It is incredible the closeness you can feel to people on the road in such a short time. These people, although you know little about them, become a family to you and provide a sense of home away from home.
Image by Delila Bevan Zavadsky
You gain trust that the world is inherently good
There was a night I went to a full-moon bonfire party and, after dancing the night away, realised I’d misplaced my wallet and phone. I was distraught and frustrated that in a moment of carelessness I’d lost my possessions. After frantically searching the beaches until the wee hours of the morning, I exhaled in relief; someone had found my things and posted on a group Facebook page. They even drove to the hostel the next day and returned them to me. Admittedly, when I first discovered that I’d lost my belongings I was convinced that I’d never see them again. I believed that someone would have undoubtedly found my things, pocketed the cash, and stolen the phone. From a very young age, we are taught to distrust the world we live in, and yet, in most cases, people are there to help one another. From that night, I was forced to change my perception. I’d return someone’s wallet, so why wouldn’t other people want to do the same? A few days ago, I broke my foot, I wish I could say it happened from doing something adventurous—a failed backflip off a cliff, a skydive landing gone wrong, a flipped quad-bike—but it was simply a rolled foot on a very mundane pavement. I have been blown away by the amount of support I have received from complete strangers in the last week. People have driven me to the shops and doctor’s appointments, and they’ve even piggy-backed me so I can go sit on the beach. As a solo-traveller, you appreciate these acts of kindness so much that, in turn, you become more aware of the value of being kind to others.
You take in the magic of life
“I found myself surrendering to my own rhythm, experiencing a sense of one-ness unlike I ever have before; a one-ness with the earth and an understanding that life has beauty in every corner”
When you go on adventures alone you are entirely present in the moment. Some of my favourite moments on my trip were spent in my own company, notably days ambling through National Parklands. During this time, away from the distraction of conversation, I was completely present and able to take in my surroundings. I felt the cool tingle of the sea air on my skin, heard the warble of the birds above, and witnessed the fins of dolphins slicing the water below. My breathing slowed and my mind followed suit. I found myself surrendering to my own rhythm, experiencing a sense of one-ness unlike I ever have before; a one-ness with the earth and an understanding that life has beauty in every corner, your eyes just need to be open to seeing it.
There are varying definitions of freedom, but for the most part to be free is to have the choice to do what one pleases without restraint. I’ve always taken my freedom for granted in Australia, never questioning that the world was my oyster: I could travel to far off lands, do what I pleased—within reason!—and had the security in knowing that possibilities were infinite. As the world disintegrated into chaos, imposed restrictions that altered my plans entirely, left me grappling for air in a world that no longer made sense to me. More than ever we are being forced to think outside the box, I would have never dreamed of doing “travel” in a place relatively familiar to me. From swimming naked in the ocean under glowing amber skies, to flying along highways in a van, I have discovered that, now more than ever, freedom is something that comes from within. How will you choose to unleash it?
Image by Delila Bevan Zavadsky
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#VANLIFE: MEET CHIARA & MARCO, TWO ITALIANS TRAVELING AUSTRALIA IN THEIR CONVERTED TROOPY
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure.
A note from Editor, Lindsay Vacek:
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. I had rented a 4x4 SUV and converted it into something I could easily camp in while on the road. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure. I became obsessed with spending nights by the campfire, hearing about their journeys and I knew I needed to bring heir stories to all of you.
van•life: a rapidly growing lifestyle where people all over the world are converting vans into rolling homes to explore more, connect with nature and the people who live in small towns, and spend more time on their creative passions while lowering the cost of accommodations on longer road trips.
What’s your name? Chiara (Chiaresse on IG)
Where are you from? Tell us a little about yourself! I’m Italian (My city is Milan 😊) but I’m living and working in Australia since 2018!
I’m 29, I love travel and to do many difference experiences!
What’s a typical day look like for you? Vegetarian breakfast, stretching, sport, lunch in the nature or on the beach, travel and discover new places, read a book or play an instrument, vegetarian dinner and watch a movie or the sky!
When did you first get your home on wheels? In 2019 here in Australia when me and my boyfriend Marco started our first conversion of our previous econovan!
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? All conversion of our troopy was a bit hard and we learned everything on YouTube channel!
My favourite part is the shower! We can take a relax hot shower everywhere! 😊
What’s your favorite part of your home? Our rooftop tent 😍 definitely it’s magic and we can see a lot of amazing sunset, sunrise and lookout!
Where to next? Currently we are travelling all around Australia until August 2021 and then we will decide what’s going on! My dream is to ship our troopy in New Zealand, but if there’s the possibility to stay in Australia we definitely decide to stay here permanently!
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? Start to think and live in minimalist way! Travel with less is the key to enjoy better the vanlife!
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? Weather condition something aren’t good, so living in van could be very uncomfortable!
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? The lazy song - Bruno Mars
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling? When we had an amazing 4WD track in the jungle, we were just me and my boyfriend and we had a shower naked in front of the ocean!
How do people find you/connect? (list your social media/website/etc) Chiaresse (Instagram) or Letmetravelmore (Instagram and YouTube)
FOLLOW CHIARA & MARCO: INSTAGRAM / INSTAGRAM / YOUTUBE
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
#VANLIFE: MEET KENDALL AND HER CONVERTED VW, VANCE
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure. Today, we are sharing Kendall & her converted van, Vance.
A SPOTLIGHT ON #VANLIFE WITH KENDALL BAGGERLY
A note from the Editor, Lindsay Vacek:
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. I had rented a 4x4 SUV and converted it into something I could easily camp in while on the road. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure. I became obsessed with spending nights by the campfire, hearing about their journeys and I knew I needed to bring their stories to all of you.
van•life: a rapidly growing lifestyle where people all over the world are converting vans into rolling homes to explore more, connect with nature and the people who live in small towns, and spend more time on their creative passions while lowering the cost of accommodations on longer road trips.
What’s your name? Kendall Baggerly
Where are you from? Tell us a little about yourself! I'm originally from San Diego, California. I studied abroad in Sydney in 2015 which is when I met my now boyfriend, Glenn. We did a lot of long distance at the start of our relationship until I officially moved to Australia in 2017, and we've been here ever since! We've spent the last year living in our van Vance travelling the country – hands down the best decision we've ever made.
What’s a typical day look like for you? No two days are the same on the road, but we do like to keep our morning routine the same every day. We wake up with the sun, make a yummy coffee and then plan our day out. Sometimes it's spent exploring new places – hiking, swimming, surfing, rock pool hunting. But other times it's a lot less fun – doing laundry, running errands, going to the mechanics. It's all a big balance but we love it!
When did you first get your home on wheels? We bought our Vance about two years ago initially just as a weekend van to take on trips out of the city. Safe to say we fell in love with the lifestyle and quickly made plans to turn him into a full-time home on wheels.
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? We did our build at a community workshop that had all the tools and space necessary to get the job done. We paid for a month's use of the space, so we worked every single day until it was done in about a month's time! We didn't have any major challenges, but a lot of the time our days were spent problem solving. Working with such a tiny area like a van means every little space matters, so every decision (e.g. how far out to make the bench top, how to maximize underbed storage, etc.) had to be really thought out. It can be really overwhelming but it's also so empowering!
What’s your favorite part of your home? Hands down our favorite part is our pull-out kitchenette that allows us to cook out the side of Vance. It doubles as our pantry storage as well, and we love it! Other than that I'd say our next favorite is our pop-top. Being able to stand up inside the van is a luxury I'll never take for granted.
Where to next? We're planning on heading to Western Australia next and will most likely spend about a year there. After our entire trip is done, we want to also do a trip in Vance to NZ once the borders open. I'd also love to do vanlife over in the states in a few years time. So many places to explore!
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? Be prepared for things to not go to plan. Between breakdowns, bad weather and good ol' covid, we've had to change our plans a lot more than we thought. But that's okay! The more you're able to go with the flow, the better. This lifestyle is full of ups and downs, and that's all part of the adventure.
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? We had a really bad breakdown at the beginning of our trip, which was a massive headache (and bill!). And right after we got it fixed, we were hit with travel restrictions due to covid and got stuck in a small town for three months. It was a really hard time, but in retrospect it taught us to slow down and never take our time on the road for granted. There's always a silver lining!
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? You can never go wrong with a little Bohemian Rhapsody! We always add that song to our road trip playlists for a little mood booster. Aside from that, we're big fans of Rufus, Ziggy Alberts and Crooked Colours :)
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling? We recently travelled to Streaky Bay on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia with some friends. One afternoon we went exploring to a hidden beach to escape the crowds, and as soon as we got onto the beach we were greeted with around 30 dolphins that came near the shore. We all went running in to swim with them and instead of swimming away, the dolphins stayed around and hung out with us for a bit. It was one of the most magical experiences getting to see so many of them in their natural habitat, playing in the waters with us. We were all completely speechless. Definitely a moment that we'll forever cherish!
How do people find you/connect? (list your social media/website/etc) My Instagram is @kendallbaggerly and we're also on YouTube under Kendall and Glenn, which is where we share a little more in-depth content of our travels around Aus, including that memorable dolphin swim! :)
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
3 DAYS IN MARGARET RIVER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
In the southern west coast of Australia is a small town called Margaret River. This little town consists of one or two main streets, but the region is much larger and is known for it’s delicious wines. Whether you are looking for swimming, surfing or camping - Margaret River as a littler something for everyone.
A TRAVEL GUIDE TO MARGARET RIVER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA.
This post is part of an ongoing “EPIC (VIRTUAL) AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIP” from estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek. Make sure to check back often to read and discover all she has to share.
In the southern west coast of Australia is a small town called Margaret River. This little town consists of one or two main streets, but the region is much larger and is known for it’s delicious wines. Whether you are looking for swimming, surfing or camping - Margaret River as a littler something for everyone.
Because Western Australia tends to be further for many visitors coming to Australia (from the states) there seems to be less people. So it’s not uncommon to come to an amazing beach and be the only one there. The crystal clear or aqua water was a color I had never seen before.
Here is the perfect 3-day Itinerary if you find yourself in Margaret River (which you definitely should do)
DAY 1
Pack a lunch and head out (you’ll need the lunch later) but first, stop at White Elephant Beach Cafe for a delicious coffee with an epic view. Then head to Boranup Forest (about a 45 min drive from the town). Once you’ve arrived, visit Boranup Cafe and grab a little snack and take it to the viewing platform for the most epic light. Then head south to the limestone caves (there are 3 - you can buy a day pass which allows you into of them and surely a cool site to be seen). Then, head over to Conte Campground and Beach. There is a small trail that leads down to the beach. It’s super private so enjoy your lunch here and have a bit of a swim and sun soak.
DAY 2
Start your morning with brekkie at Riversmith in town (yum!) and wander their little gift shop. Then head south to the Lighthouse. Take a lil stroll around the lighthouse grounds and then head to Injidup Natural Spa for a swim. Another beautiful beach to check out in the area is Eagle Bay and Gracetown. And also stop to take a photo at Sugarloaf Rock.
DAY 3
Stop the day at Egberts for coffee and one of their delicious pastries. Then it’s off to Head south to Hamelin Bay the to play with the friendly sting rays! After you’ve soaked up enough sun, head to Sea Garden Cafe for an early dinner and happy hour drink and then to Preverly Beach for the most epic sunsets (really, you should try to do this every night). End the night with some live music at Settler’s Tavern and cheers to a fantastic adventure.
HAVE YOU BEEN HERE? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO. WANT TO SHOW US SOMETHING OR SOMEONE? TAG US ON INSTAGRAM OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA TO SHARE.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
TASMANIA: One of Australia's Best Kept Secrets
Rugged mountains, spectacular coastlines, native forests, sweeping bays, picturesque beaches, sparkling lakes all on one island... Tasmania has been described as an "island of contrasts" because there is an immense variety of attractions to enjoy. How can this breath-taking island, the smallest state in Australia, have so much to offer? It's hard to fathom unless you have spent some time exploring this island for yourself — and I, like many others, didn’t know about Australia’s best kept secret.. that is, until I met a local who told me I had to go.
AN ADVENTURE IN AUSTRALIA’S ISLAND STATE, TASMANIA.
This post is part of an ongoing “EPIC (VIRTUAL) AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIP” from estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek. Make sure to check back often to read and discover all she has to share.
What makes Tasmania so unique you may ask?
Let me explain...
Rugged mountains, spectacular coastlines, native forests, sweeping bays, picturesque beaches, sparkling lakes all on one island... Tasmania has been described as an "island of contrasts" because there is an immense variety of attractions to enjoy. How can this breath-taking island, the smallest state in Australia, have so much to offer? It's hard to fathom unless you have spent some time exploring this island for yourself — and I, like many others, didn’t know about Australia’s best kept secret.. that is, until I met a local who told me. Let me paint the picture for you.
At this point on my Australian road trip, I had only been in Australia for about a month and was still looking to take in all the different parts of the country to figure out where exactly I wanted to settle down and start my next chapter. I knew I loved Byron Bay - but was there another place that had the culture and the nature that I was looking for?
I was sitting with a new friend in Melbourne one Saturday afternoon chatting about our life journeys and what we hoped was in store for our future. He asked me what I was looking for (in terms of climate and environment). I explained that I need to be near the ocean and mountains and green LUSH trees but that I was not a fan of humidity. Growing up in California, we are so spoiled with the variety of the land. From deserts to mountains to ocean to vineyards… I said to him, “I suppose I’m looking for home”.
He replied with “You need to go to Tasmania”
“Tasmania? Why?”
“You have the bluest waters and red rocks along the east side of the island - and then the west coast is mountains and green and forest. Two weeks would be ideal for you to explore the whole island and I know you’ll absolutely love it”
“I had heard about Tasmania but can I go there with my car? I thought I had to fly there?” I asked
“There’s a ferry that goes from Melbourne!”
I booked my ticket the next day.
While on the 10 hour ferry trip, I started looking through Tasmania Tourism brochures and I started getting really excited! This next week was going to be awesome. I don’t know why I was so surprised - I suppose I had low expectations but as I started to look deeper into this beautiful state, it was exactly the kind of place that feels your soul.
I barely scratched the surface but here are some of the things I discovered while driving around the island.
Bay of Fires:
Located in the North-East part of the island, the Bay of Fires got the name because of its’ fire red rocks. The contrast of the white sand beaches and crystal blue waters make it one of the best beaches in the world. And the best part, camping is free all along the bay!
Crystal clear blue waters meet the fire red rocks on the North East part of the island.
Along the Great Eastern Road in Tasmania.
Wineglass Bay:
Perhaps one of the most famous bays in Tasmania, Wineglass Bay is located in the Freycinet National Park (which also is known for it’s wine!). The hike to the overlook is relatively easy, but expect it to take about an hour. I didn’t realize this when I went and did the hike in flip-flop sandals (whoops!)
Wineglass Bay from the lookout in Freycinet National Park.
The lookout at overlooking Bruny Island.
Hobart:
The capital of the island, the CBD is still quite small and quiet. But I still had one of the best times exploring it’s quirky streets. Born in Brunswick for coffee and brekkie. Pancho Villa for Mexican (and still, to this day, the BEST Mexican I’ve found in Australia) and Preachers for a cheeky afternoon beverage after shopping at the Salamanca Markets.
Also, head up to Mount Wellington for sunrise or sunset (but check the weather as it sometimes is too foggy to see anything). Or hike to Silver Falls and check out the cool history of the Fern Tree Bower.
Tasman Penisula
A short drive from Hobart is the Tasman Penisula. Definitely take some time to check out Port Arthur and learn about it’s rich history of the site of the biggest massacre site in the country and also one of the best preserved convict sites in the world. You can also stop at the Lavender Farm nearby for lunch and fresh lavender. Also worth the stop are Devil’s Kitchen, Tasman Arch and Tessellated Pavement.
Port Arthur Old Prison
Tasman Arch
Coastline of the Tasman Peninsula
Cradle Mountain:
When I go back, the Overland Track is 100 percent on my to-do list. The 65km trail can be hiked over 6 days and you camp along the way (either with a tour company and cabins or you can do it alone with your camp gear). There is a visitors center that you can ride a tram in for a quick day trip as well.
Overland Track in Cradle Mountain. If you book ahead, you can hike this 65km trail over 5 days.
Somewhere in Cradle Mountain.
Hat by Lack of Color, Blanket Spirit Hoods.
Photo by Dan Grady
Penguin Observatory
One of the first things I did when I got off the ferry was go to the Penguin Observatory in Burnie to watch the baby penguins come in at night. While there is no guarantee you will actually see any (as they migrate and it’s seasonal) - I was lucky enough to see a few! The observation center is also run by volunteers and is donation based.
There are “BIG” things scattered all over Australia. This penguin is located in Penguin, Tasmania.
Watch the Penguins migrate in after sunset to seek safety and sleep. One of the few observation centers that is entirely volunteer run and donation based. Located in Burnie, Tasmania.
HAVE YOU BEEN HERE? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO. WANT TO SHOW US SOMETHING OR SOMEONE? TAG US ON INSTAGRAM OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA TO SHARE.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE: AN ADVENTURE IN BONDI BEACH, AUSTRALIA
I remember the first time I heard the term: The Golden Triangle. The three cities where you find laid-back, beach-y, creative vibes. Where good food, style and sunshine all reside. It doesn’t surprise me that I now spend my life between the three: Venice Beach, California + Bondi Beach and Byron Bay, Australia.
This post is part of an ongoing “EPIC (VIRTUAL) AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIP” from estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek. Make sure to check back often to read and discover all she has to share.
I know it’s been a little bit since we started on this (virtual) Australian Road Trip. We took a pause because we have some really big things happening here at the offices of Established California. We can’t talk about it just yet but it’ll make sense REAL soon.
In the meantime, we are ready to start sharing some more of our Australia adventures with you again - and our next stop: BONDI BEACH.
I remember the first time I heard the term: The Golden Triangle. The three cities where you find laid-back, beach-y, creative vibes. Where good food, style and sunshine all reside. It doesn’t surprise me that I now spend my life between the three: Venice Beach, California + Bondi Beach and Byron Bay, Australia (Well, just Byron for now but post-COVID - I will be back to in my California hometown to hug all the people I love)
When I first got to Bondi Beach, I understood why the Sydney suburb was so popular. Being able to hang on the beach all day and have sunset cocktails on a hip rooftop at night, it made me feel right at home. With endless options of things to do, the city girl in me couldn’t wait to explore.
Here are some of my favorite recommendations for things to do if you ever find yourself in Sydney.
Wake up early and head directly to the Sydney Opera House and avoid the crowds. Or come in the evening for live music and champagne at the Opera Bar. Or do both! The world’s your oyster (which are also very good here!)
Bondi Icebergs Pool: I know, i know.. it’s so cliche. But really, you have to go and see this iconic place for yourself. And make sure to enjoy an aperol spritzer on the balcony for me.
While you are in Bondi, grab a coffee or tonic from Orchard St. and peruse the cool collection of crystals and books.
Take the ferry from Circular Quay (which is where Sydney Opera House is too) over to Manly Beach. This hip little suburb reminds me so much of Catalina Island. Definitely worth spending an afternoon.
Rent a bike or scooter and cycle through Centennial Park.
Watch the Sunset from Watson’s Bay. which is just a short drive outside the city and offers a great view of the harbor.
HAVE YOU BEEN HERE? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO. WANT TO SHOW US SOMETHING OR SOMEONE? TAG US ON INSTAGRAM OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA TO SHARE.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
Summer Fun at the San Diego County Fair
Summer is officially here and that means fun in the sun! One of my all-time favorite summer past times is spending time at the County Fair. What’s not to love!? Rides, games, concerts, animals, exhibits, festivals, and wacky foods that aren’t acceptable to eat any other time of the year. It is the perfect way to spend a summer day with so much to see and do you are bound to have a good time!
Photography by Ashley Williams
This post previously was shared with Established California viewers. Unfortunately, the County Fair has been postponed this year but we are looking forward to playing again when it’s safe to do so!
Summer is officially here and that means fun in the sun! One of my all-time favorite summer past times is spending time at the County Fair. What’s not to love!? Rides, games, concerts, animals, exhibits, festivals, and wacky foods that aren’t acceptable to eat any other time of the year. It is the perfect way to spend a summer day with so much to see and do you are bound to have a good time!
Photos taken at the San Diego County Fair by Ashley Williams Photography
THE FARM: The Perfect Way to Spend an Afternoon in Byron Bay, AU
The Farm at Byron Bay is a hub of micro businesses all working towards a common mission to Grow, Feed, Educate. Whether you are after a coffee, some fresh produce or flowers or just to walk around and meet the farm animals - there is something for everyone. I personally love ordering food from their cafe, bringing a blanket and having a picnic under a tree on their big grassy lawn.
This post is part of an ongoing “EPIC (VIRTUAL) AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIP” from estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek. Make sure to check back often to read and discover all she has to share.
It seems fitting that I would start our Australian road trip in Byron Bay.
When we first started Established California, we often partnered and/or discovered new brands from all over the world — and many of our favorites came out of a little surf town on the east coast of Australia called Byron Bay. Spell and the Gypsy and The Beach People were just a few of the brands I had spoken to and followed for years before I actually visited their flagship locations.
So when I finally made my way to Byron Bay for the first time, two years ago, I had no idea what to expect. I had planned to spend one month on holiday and, honestly, I thought I would be bored (haha). I think growing up in a big city like Los Angeles and having access to entertainment, food and pretty much anything you wanted — the idea of a small beach town with no stop lights seemed a bit.. well, sleepy. But, boy was I wrong.
The phrase “Quality, over Quantity” comes into play here. While your options are much more limited, you know that whatever choice you do make, it will be a solid, fantastic one. And one of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon in Byron Bay is at The Farm.
The Farm at Byron Bay is a hub of micro businesses all working towards a common mission to Grow, Feed, Educate. Whether you are after a coffee, some fresh produce or flowers or just to walk around and meet the farm animals - there is something for everyone. I personally love ordering food from their cafe, bringing a blanket and having a picnic under a tree on their big grassy lawn.
A message from the business:
The Farm is principally a working farm, we house a collection of micro-businesses all sharing in a common goal. We invite you to come and visit us and see for yourself how a farm operates, supports the environment and contributes to a healthier lifestyle.
Our motto Grow, Feed, Educate inspires all that we do, here and for the community at large. We believe that it is first hand experience of seeing how food is grown and produced that makes the eating of it so much more pleasurable. From this simple pleasure sprouts a curiosity and desire to learn more.
We hope you enjoy your visit to The Farm and leave feeling inspired to make even the smallest change towards a healthier, more harmonious existence with our land, our animals and our communities.
Who’s at The Farm:
THREE BLUE DUCKS - RESTAURANT | THE BREAD SOCIAL - BAKERY | THE PRODUCE STORE - LOCAL PRODUCE | GROWERS COLLECTIVE - MARKET GARDEN | BAYLATO - GELATO | THE GARDEN SHED - NURSERY| WORMTICKLERS - NURSERY | FARM KIDS - ACTIVITIES | WORKSHOPS - ADULT FARMING | ZEPHYR HORSES - HORSEBACK TOURS | THE BEACH HOUSE - PRIVATE VENUE HIRE
FOLLOW THE FARM: INSTAGRAM / FACEBOOK / WEBSITE
HAVE YOU BEEN HERE? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO. WANT TO SHOW US SOMETHING OR SOMEONE? TAG US ON INSTAGRAM OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA TO SHARE.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
COME JOIN ME FOR AN EPIC (VIRTUAL) AUSTRALIAN ROADTRIP...
I’ve always been an avid traveler - it’s a love that has developed over the last fifteen year from working and traveling with ABC’s “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette”. While we were on hiatus from filming, between seasons, I would often jump on a plane and travel somewhere new (mostly because I didn’t ever get much adventure time when I’d traveling for work). So, at the beginning of 2020, I decided to travel to Australia. Little did I know back then that COVID19 would happen and I’d end up being stranded in Paradise (haha!).
Standing at the Twelve Apostles off the Great Ocean Road. Photo by Meredith Herberg.
I’ve always been an avid traveler - it’s a love that has developed over the last fifteen year from working and traveling with ABC’s “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette”. While on hiatus from filming, between seasons, I would often jump on a plane and travel somewhere new (mostly because I didn’t ever get much adventure time when I’d travel for work). So, at the beginning of 2020, I decided to travel to Australia. Little did I know back then that COVID19 would happen and I’d end up being stranded in Paradise (haha!).
7 months later, I’m still here. I decided to ride out the pandemic down under and although I miss my job and friends and family terribly, I’m grateful and excited to explore living and developing other parts of myself while here (like actually having the time to invest into building up this community and website again because I whole-heartedly believe in it).
Starting tomorrow, I’ll be sharing some of my Australian travels with you, along with some cool places I’ve discovered along the way. When I landed here on New Year’s Day, I had no plan, no agenda. Just a couple of suitcases and a rented 4x4 SUV and I hit the road. From cocktails with friends at Icebergs in Bondi Beach, to Wilderness Railroad rides along the West Coast of Tasmania, to sunset dance parties on empty carparks in Brisbane - it’s an adventure I’ll never forget (and still enjoying!).
JUST A FEW SNAPSHOTS FROM MY EPIC AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIP
HAVE YOU BEEN TO AUSTRALIA? WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART? COMMENT BELOW OR TAG US ON INSTAGRAM! WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU!
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
#VANLIFE: THE MOST ADORABLE FAMILY & LLOYD, A CONVERTED BUS TURNED HOME-ON-WHEELS
We have a treat for you today! This #vanlife share is sure to make you smile and fill you will vanlife #goals. Marte and her husband, Jed, purchased their bus (Lloyd) two and a half years ago and took 18 months to renovate it into their dream home-on-wheels. They sold everything and hit the road with their two children, Ellida and Embla, and now spend their days making memories that will last forever.
A SPOTLIGHT ON #VANLIFE WITH MARTE + JED
We have a treat for you today! This #vanlife share is sure to make you smile and fill you will vanlife #goals. Marte and her husband, Jed, purchased their bus (Lloyd) two and a half years ago and took 18 months to renovate it into their dream home-on-wheels. They sold everything and hit the road with their two children, Ellida and Embla, and now spend their days making memories that will last forever.
“Don’t wait for a life changing event to change your life”. - Jed
What’s your name? My name is Marte and my husband is Jed, we have Ellida 4 years old and Embla 2 years old.
Where are you from? Tell us a little about yourself! I am originally from Norway but I moved to Australia 11 years ago. I met Jed back home in Norway and when his visa ran out I decided to come to Australia with him for a year and here we are a decade later. We are now married with kids and living a life we dreamt up, travelling the country and spending everyday together.
What’s a typical day look like for you? A typical day for us would be a hard thing to describe as we are always somewhere new and our flow adapts to each new place. Generally we like to park up near beaches and stay places that are warm. In Australia we are pretty lucky to have places that are warm all year around. So a most typical day would involve some time for Jed to surf in the morning, followed by some time for me to do my Yoga Practice and then we would go to the beach or if I am doing some work Jed will take the girls for a play somewhere.
The bus is really affected by the outside temp so it still gets cold in the evenings. That’s when you’ll find us snuggled up at home, cooking dinner and lighting the fireplace.
When did you first get your home on wheels? We bought Lloyd the bus 2.5 years ago when we just had Embla our second daughter, but it took us 18 months to convert it into a house on wheels so we are nearly up to a year living on the road now.
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? It was the hardest thing we have ever done. We just had our second baby and Jed was working full time as well as fitting out the bus. We didn’t expect it to take so long but we learnt a few life lessons along the way. Having said that it was the best thing we have ever done for our family! We have to pinch ourselves sometimes that we are actually living this life now after all that hard work.
What’s your favorite part of your home? That it moves! And that it feels different and fresh at every new location. We also definitely love the little bath we put in for the girls. They use it every night and its always nice to have some solid routines and comforts for the girls when we travel so much. But my absolute favourite part must be our windows and the ever changing views they provide.
Where to next? Right now we are just hanging in Byron Bay for a couple of months and from there we have no plans. We never really do. It seems life takes us to where we are meant to be at the moment and we feel comfortable trusting that. Once the boarders open to Queensland I can see us moving closer to the tropics for a little while but we are open to anything.
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? My husband always says “Don’t wait for a life changing event to change your life”.
We sold everything we owned, cars, house, stuff and built our home from scratch. Jed left a well paying full time job. We took the risks and made the commitment. It might feel scary to begin with but it will be well worth it. Don’t wait for something awful to happen to push you into that decision. You deserve to live your dream life no matter what your current life is like. Make the leap.
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? When the lock down happened we were travelling Tasmania and because we were no longer allowed to travel in our motor home we isolated ourselves with 3 other bus families on an amazing property at the far south of Tasmania. It was an experience for life and beautiful friendships and memories were formed but it was also incredibly hard. It was very remote and we didn’t have access to water. The weather turned when we were there also so it got very cold and our solar didn’t charge well. The uncertainty of what was happening with restrictions and no contingencies being made for people who live full time on the road was straining for a while. But then life guided us up to a sunny property in NSW and we were lucky enough to spend the rest of lock down there.
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? A song that means a lot to us and resonates with our life philosophy is ‘Society’ by Eddie Vedder and if you haven’t seen the movie in which this soundtrack is from I highly recommend it. Into the Wild.
What’s the most memorable moment you had while traveling? There are so many but one of my favourites are from the beginning of our journey and it is so simple yet one of my favourite memories. We had just pulled over to a free camp right by the ocean after spending a few weeks in a warm beachy place on the West coast of Australia. The weather turned and it got really cold all of a sudden while I was cooking dinner outside. It was super late so we really just wanted to get dinner done and put the kids to bed but nothing was working out. Then we decided to just embrace the chaos so we lit the fire for the first time in weeks and set up a pretend Italian restaurant inside. We played Italian music, ate spaghetti by the fire and watched the storm roll in over the ocean. Sometimes life is really just what you make it.
How do people find you/connect? I share a lot about our life and travels on my instagram @runningwld_mama and my husband does to @wander_jah_buslife
PIN THIS STORY TO READ LATER
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Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
#VANLIFE: MEET CHELSEA, digital nomad and owner of Traveller by Trade
Meet Chelsea, a fellow digital nomad who is doing BIG things in the digital world. We have always been big fans of being able to work and still travel the world, so when we met Chelsea, we knew we wanted to share her story with you all. She’s Canadian born but now living her dream life in Byron Bay, Australia.. tiny home and all.
Chelsea of @TravellerbyTrade with her Van
Meet Chelsea, a fellow digital nomad who is doing BIG things in the digital world. We have always been big fans of being able to work and still travel the world, so when we met Chelsea, we knew we wanted to share her story with you all. She’s Canadian born but now living her dream life in Byron Bay, Australia.. tiny home and all.
van•life: a rapidly growing lifestyle where people all over the world are converting vans into rolling homes to explore more, connect with nature and the people who live in small towns, and spend more time on their creative passions while lowering the cost of accommodations on longer road trips.
What’s your name? Chelsea Giles
How old are you? 26
What’s your occupation? I am the owner of Traveller By Trade. I am a social media manager and consultant, website designer and part-time content photographer. Overall, I help brands and businesses build an online presence and maximize their online reach, all organically, with zero AD spend, via their socials and website.
Where are you from? I was born in Niagara Falls, Ontario in Canada
When did you first get your home on wheels? I got my first van in 2017.
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? I actually purchased one that was already built out. My second van (that I live in now) was also built out when I got it, but I have added/changed/removed a few things since then. I am currently saving and planning for my 3rd, which might be a van or might be a shuttle bus, that my partner and I will build out. I think getting the layout exactly how you want it is the most challenging thing, which is why I am very happy to have lived in two that I bought built out. It's really helped me get an exact picture in my head of what I would want in terms of space, storage, functionality and overall look.
What’s your favorite part of your home? The fact that it is tiny. I have everything I need within a small radius, I never lose anything because I don't have much stuff and.. of course, it can move with me wherever I go.
Where to next?I had a ton of overseas travel planned but with the current situation (Corona Virus is going viral right now) everything is pretty much on hold. Really hoping everything calms down soon as its getting to winter in Australia and I would be super keen to head North where it's warmer for a little while.
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife?In terms of the van: Choose a van with the bed in the back and the kitchen/whatever else you fit in (depending on the size) behind the drivers seat. My first van had the kitchen in the back and it makes the space soooo much smaller. Also, try and aim for one you can stand up in. My first van I couldnt, but my new one has a pop-top and it makes such a big difference. In terms of the lifestyle: if you're new to the minimal lifestyle try to start downsizing your stuff a few weeks before. It's less of a shock. And dont think that you have to get rid of everything. I moved from Canada to Australia and left a small suitcase of cherished items (like paperwork, family photos, childhood memories ect) at a family or mates house. Being minimal in your space means having what you need/love the most but small little cherished items that don't necessarily belong in the van still hold a special place in your heart. Don't think you have to let go of all of those special bits as well.
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? Not having a toilet in the van when its pouring rain and I've had one too many teas and I'm busting. I also don't have a functioning kitchen in the van (which is why I'm wanting a shuttle bus to convert next) and I think if you're wanting to do this long term (like I am) then its a really nice and homey feature. And the bugs. Holy hell the bugs can get really bad sometimes!
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist?Oh ym goodness there are so many. This would defo change depending on the week but there is a 'Morning Oldies' playlist on Spotify that I love blasting in whenever I'm heading out on an adventure and we're leaving early in the morning.
How do people find you/connect? (social media/website/etc) Mostly online, because I work online as well. Instagram is a big one for me and I love meeting up with people that follow me or that I've connected with when they come through this area. I'm pretty much based in Byron Bay, and just live out of my van while staying in one central area. It was just a best of both worlds kind of decision for me to not be so mobile at the minute and really build a home base.
FOLLOW CHELSEA: INSTAGRAM / WEBSITE / PINTEREST / FACEBOOK
Chelsea taking photos on the beach
Chelsea of @TravellerbyTrade in her Tiny House in Mullimbimby
Chelsea of @TravelerbyTrade with Laptop
WOULD YOU EVER WANT TO LIVE IN A VAN OR TINY HOME? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS! WANT TO SHOW US YOUR #VANLIFE? TAG US ON INSTAGRAM OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA TO SHARE.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
THE BEST SPOTS ALONG CALIFORNIA'S COAST: LOS ANGELES
Nikki Lazaran from Resfeber Junket is sharing the ULTIMATE California Coast road trip! Follow along all month as she shares her favorite stops all over the Golden State. Let’s explore: Los Angeles
Great White Venice. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
From guest contributor: Nikki Lazaran of Resfeber Junket
Planning a California Coast road trip? If you’re not, you should be. From the sunbathed shores of San Diego to to the thick groves of NorCal’s redwoods, California is arguably one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the contiguous United States.
I’ll be sharing my favorite spots all month, so stay tuned to read up on what gives “The Golden State” its signature sparkle!
LET’S EXPLORE: LOS ANGELES
Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick
VENICE BEACH
If you’re cruising the California coast, you’d be remiss to skip over Venice Beach. This LA-adjacent beach brings the slower-paced Beach Boys vibes to the big city. Start your day by munching on LA favorites for breakfast or brunch, like avocado toast and grain bowls at The Butcher’s Daughter, the blue açaí bowl at Great White, or pretty much everything on the menu at Gjelina. Once you’re fed and caffeinated, make your way to the famous Venice Sign!
Pro tip: Wait for the crosswalk to allow crossing in all directions to snap the perfect photo without getting hit by public transit. Had to learn this tip the hard way…
Gjusta, Gjelina’s casual little sister. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Venice Canals. Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick.
Once you’ve snagged your sign photo without getting hit by a bus, head down to the boardwalk and take a leisurely stroll to visit Muscle Beach, the rainbow lifeguard tower, and skateboarders and bikers frequenting the beach. If you’re over the chaos of Muscle Beach, it’s time to head to the Venice Canals to take in the views and window shop for your dream vacation home.
Santa Monica Pier. Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick
SANTA MONICA
Bike along the beach or jump in a car to head up the coast to Santa Monica. First stop is walking Third Street Mall to take in the street performers and peruse the shops. Feeling the need for a reprieve from the crowds? Head up to the top of the Hotel Shangri-La and enjoy a refreshing drink on their rooftop. If you’re looking for a sea view with all the vibes, try Elephante - make a reservation before you go to ensure you get a table.
Grab a bite while you’re there or venture to Flower Child for one of my favorite healthy alternatives. End the day with a sunset stroll down Santa Monica Pier for treats, rides, and subpar restaurants.
Downtown LA. Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick
DOWNTOWN LA
Los Angeles is one of those rare cities where downtown seems to have less going on than the outskirts of the city, but in recent years there has been a veritable culinary resurgence. While it shouldn’t comprise the majority of your trip to LA, it is absolutely worth a stop. Kick off the day with breakfast hopping at Grand Central Market. You need coffee from G&B and an egg breakfast sandwich from Egg Slut. Go early to avoid long lines, bring a camera for pics of all the neon signs, and come hungry. Also parking is a nightmare - take a rideshare if you can.
If museums are on the docket, a pre-booked visit to The Broad art museum downtown is a must.
Grand Central Market. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Once you’ve refueled, make your way to adjacent Hollywood…
HOLLYWOOD
Hollywood is known for well…the Hollywood sign, actors, and the Walk of Fame. The best way to experience the he Hollywood sign is to get out and hike! Hollyhock trail head offers a leisurely climb up the mountains with views of the sign. The Wisdom Tree trail head offers a more rigorous route to the top with equally stunning views. And if hikes aren’t your thing, drive right up to Lake Hollywood Park for views sans incline.
Hollywood Sign hike for the last sunset of the year
From there, it’s just a short drive to the Walk Of Fame to see the handprints of your favorite actor or actress. Maybe consider not touching them because, well...I’ve personally people pee on that sidewalk. If the mood strikes, catch a movie at the famous Grauman’s Chinese Theater. Post movie, take a late afternoon cruise down Mulholland for those La La Land views - you can even stop at several of the turnouts they used to film the movie! During your time in Hollywood, if you plan in advance, you can also book tickets online to The Stahl House (Case Study #22), an architectural marvel and LA icon with unreal sunset views. Start looking into these tickets more than a month in advance to secure them and Uber to the house to avoid the parking nightmare.
The Stahl House. Photo by Michael Palumbo on @nikkthequick
Photo by Michael Palumbo on @nikkthequick
That night, rest your weary had at Hollywood’s famous Roosevelt Hotel or the iconic Chateau Marmont. If you’re staying closer to Hollywood, sample old school Italian at Dan Tana’s, rocker themed Thai at Toi On Sunset, or a martini (and Hollywood glam eats) at Musso and Frank’s.
View of DTLA from The Ace Hotel Rooftop by Nikki Lazaran
For a more modern look in one of LA newer properties, head downtown to The Ace Downtown, The Freehand, or The NoMad Hotel for the night. Enjoy dinner downtown at one of the many amazing establishments nearby, from The Exchange at The Freehand for delicious mediterranean, 71Above for 360 downtown views, and Preux and Proper for southern fair, to Bar Ama for elevated Tex-Mex.
Little Dom’s in Los Feliz. Photo by Michael Palumbo on @nikkthequick
EAST LA
If you’re in the area, grab breakfast at Little Dom’s (their french toast skillet is a must) or brunch at Trois Familia. The best coffee can also be found nearby at Eightfold, Dayglow or Woodcat, if espresso is your jam. For delicious pour-overs, Dinosaur has got you covered. Closer to lunch time? Night Market + Song is a on of my all-time favorites when I’m craving Thai.
If you have it in you, consider another hike - this time to the Griffith Observatory. head to the Fern Dell Park (near Trails Cafe) to begin your hike. Take the leisurely hour walk up to stunning views of the city below and the free planetarium! Head out early to avoid crowds.
Sunset at Griffith Observatory. Photo by @nikkthequick
LACMA. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
BEVERLY HILLS, MIRACLE MILE & WEST HOLLYWOOD
A mere hop, skip, and a jump from East LA is Miracle Mile and a cluster of some of LA’s best museums. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art regularly features fantastic interactive exhibits from the likes of James Turrell and is recognized by it’s signature street light display out front. If there is a popular exhibit you’re looking to see, check online a few months in advance to purchase tickets. Plan on a few hours at the museum before grabbing lunch.
Backyard Bowls acai bowl. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Try Cecconi’s for Italian and all the decor. Need a quick bite? Try Potato Chips for sandwiches, Mainland Poke for…well..poke, or Backyard Bowls for acai bowls. Something cute, but still sit down? Joan’s On Third, Croft Alley, Republique, or Gracias Madre (vegan friendly) are all safe bets.
Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Post-meal, it’s time to do what we Angelenos do best – drink coffee and shop. Hit up Melrose for vintage or eclectic clothing, Rodeo Drive for designer, or The Grove and The Beverly Center for a traditional mall with a potential celebrity citing. If it happens to be a Sunday, pay $3 cash to check out the Melrose Trading Post for everything from vintage furniture and succulents to records and handmade jewelry.
Some of my favorite cafes in the area include Verve Coffee Roasters, Coffee For Sasquatch, Smith & Tait, Coffee Commissary, and King’s Road Cafe. It may not be the best espresso in the city, but Carrera Cafe’s is known for their Ryan Gosling’s lattes, if that’s your jam.
Carrera Cafe Ryan Gosling latte art. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Sunset at El Matador Beach in Malibu. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
MALIBU
It’s time to get out of the city and back to the beach, where every California dream begins. Head up the coast to Malibu and straight to the pier to enjoy lunch at Malibu Pier Cafe before jetting to El Matador Beach. If it’s too crowded for your taste, Zuma is also quite beautiful and slightly less popular.
Malibu Farms’ cauliflower pizza. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
For wine and some gorgeous Santa Monica mountains views, purchase tickets several weeks in advance online for the Malibu Wine Safari giraffe tour. You’ll spend the afternoon feeding and viewing exotic animals, including a giraffe named Stanley, and sipping wine in some of the most picturesque spots in Malibu wine country.
Malibu Farms giraffe tour with Stanley the giraffe. Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick
“Malibu Wines Safari got me like the emoji.” Photo by Michael Palumbo on @nikkthequick
Spend the night at the newly opened boutique property, The Surfrider Malibu for all the California vibes you can handle or grab one of the many unique AirBnB’s in the area.
Have you been to Los Angeles? Comment below and tell us what your favorite place is! Or use #estcalifornia on social media to share with us!
Meet Nikki
Hi, I’m Nikki Lazaran, travel TV producer, avid wanderer, and the creator & author of Resfeber Junket. I plan extravagant dates and exotic travel for a living as one of “The Bachelor” franchise producers. On my occasional days off, I like to help you do the same.
“Resfeber” is a Swedish word which describes the “jitter” before an impending trip or “travel fever.” Pronounced, “res/feb/ə(r).”
I chose “Resfeber Junket” to encapsulate the travel fever I hope you experience when you join me here for your curated travel and romance content. I aim to help you feed that hunger to explore and point you towards what you need to live an intrepid life, whether you are fearless in your pursuit of travel or love…or both!
FOLLOW NIKKI
#VANLIFE: MEET BRETT AND HIS VINTAGE '74 VW COMBI
Meet Brett, another traveller I met while exploring this year. Brett was on a road trip up the east coast of Australia when our paths crossed. I was instantly intrigued by his beautiful vintage van and so impressed when I heard he restored it himself.
A note from staff contributor, Lindsay Vacek:
Meet Brett, another traveller I met while exploring this year. Brett was on a road trip up the east coast of Australia when our paths crossed. I was instantly intrigued by his beautiful vintage van, which he named Valery (after the song by Amy Winehouse) and I was so impressed when I heard he even restored it himself. Check out our little Q&A below because he gives some really great #vanlife tips and advice!
van•life: a rapidly growing lifestyle where people all over the world are converting vans into rolling homes to explore more, connect with nature and the people who live in small towns, and spend more time on their creative passions while lowering the cost of accommodations on longer road trips.
What’s your name? Brett Harris
How old are you? 28
What’s your occupation? Chiropractic student
Where are you from? Loxton North, South Australia (No one knows where that is haha)
When did you first get your home on wheels? When I was 22 years old
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? We (my parents helped a lot) completely gutted the interior, the front end bumper is custom home made, wheels, camper and rear end seals and bumper are all new. The first year of owning it we had some bigger engine problems (alternator rebuild and replacement of some 44 year old wiring). She runs soundly now but there are original parts breaking from time to time, last week my key snapped my door lock barrel so I broke in to drive it home. All part of the fun of looking after something so iconic.
What’s your favorite part of your home? Definitely the upgraded foam eggcup bed. The original rock and roll 2 seater bed is stone hard. Rate a good nights snooze while camping so highly.
Where to next? Tasmania, hopefully for a month next February
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? Consider the basic comforts. Whilst I love my 46 year old girl, she doesn't feature things like air-conditioning/heating, power steering.
I've found that you can easily get away with a fit out that doesn't include a permanent fridge or gas cooker.
By using a esky you can remove it and use it as a seat/kitchen bench while camping.
Alongside this is my portable gas cooker, again you can pull it out and cook outside of the van. Often use kitchens provided by caravan parks when staying at one.
Dual battery system has got me out of a shit situation so many times, the extra cranking power is so handy \ when on the road. Solar panels are cheap and affordable too, I have one on my roof charging the batteries.
Get creative with storage space if making your own cabinets, you can never get enough storage.
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? Alley-Oop (feat. iDA HAWK) by Big Wild, iDA HAWK
How do people find you/connect? (social media/website/etc) You can follow my adventures in instagram: marley_and_me91
FOLLOW BRETT: INSTAGRAM
WOULD YOU EVER WANT TO LIVE IN A VAN OR TINY HOME? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS!
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
THE BEST SPOTS ALONG CALIFORNIA'S COAST: ORANGE COUNTY
Next stop along the California Coast: Orange County! Whether you are looking for Cinderella’s castle at Disneyland or a drive down Route 66, Nikki (@nikkthequick) is sharing her favorite spots this week. 🍊🍊🍊 Be sure to tag us or use #estcalifornia to share your California adventures too!
Nikki at a Lifeguard tower in Orange County - Photo from @nikkthequick
From guest contributor: Nikki Lazaran of Resfeber Junket
Planning a California Coast road trip? If you’re not, you should be. From the sunbathed shores of San Diego to to the thick groves of NorCal’s redwoods, California is arguably one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the contiguous United States.
I’ll be sharing my favorite spots all month, so stay tuned to read up on what gives “The Golden State” its signature sparkle!
LET’S EXPLORE: ORANGE COUNTY
ORANGE COUNTY
Just a few hours drive from San Diego, you’ll find plenty of quintessential California “fun in the sun” in Orange County. First stop?
Photo by Meg Crade from @nikkthequick
ANAHEIM
Anaheim, better known as the home to Disneyland. No trip through Orange County is complete without it. Scoop up a day pass, plan to head to the park before they open and on a weekday to beat some of the crowds, and make sure to eat an oversized churro for me.
What are the must-do rides? It’s tough to choose, but some of the classics and a few of my favorites are:
The Haunted Mansion
Thunder Mountain
Splash Mountain
Indiana Jones Adventure
Space Mountain
It’s A Small World
Pirates Of The Caribbean
Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
Mad Tea Party (the “Tea Cups”)
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
Grab all the fast passes you can to skip to the front of the line at your favorite rides.
Photo by Meg Crade from @nikkthequick
LAGUNA BEACH
If you’re looking for a relaxing seaside day sans the hoards of people at Disneyland, opt for a day in Laguna Beach, cruising Route 66. Grab a burger and milkshake from one of the many vintage diners, such as the cliffside Ruby’s on PCH (also called Crystal Cove Shake Shack), and go tide pooling during low tide at Shaw’s Cove or Crystal Cove Park. Don’t forget your water shoes so you can explore for critters on the sharp rocks!
Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Pro tip: Check the tides on the “Tides” app so you can determine the best time of day for your tide pooling adventures.
Not into exploring for creatures? Meander Crystal Cove State Park instead and take in the sea views. Or head to Victoria Beach to see the old stone light house. Fair warning: it pretty much disappears at high tide and can get quite crowded on weekends or during midday low tides.
If the surf is more your speed, join the locals at The Wedge or Thousand Steps Beach, but be prepared to walk the steps in (and more importantly) out. Once you’ve worked up an appetite from climbing all those steps, grab breakfast burritos or banana pancakes at Coyote Grill or make reservations at Nick’s Laguna Beach for a delectable steak dinner.
Have you been to ORANGE COUNTY? COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE THING! OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA ON YOUR FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNEL TO SHARE.
Meet Nikki
Hi, I’m Nikki Lazaran, travel TV producer, avid wanderer, and the creator & author of Resfeber Junket. I plan extravagant dates and exotic travel for a living as one of “The Bachelor” franchise producers. On my occasional days off, I like to help you do the same.
“Resfeber” is a Swedish word which describes the “jitter” before an impending trip or “travel fever.” Pronounced, “res/feb/ə(r).”
I chose “Resfeber Junket” to encapsulate the travel fever I hope you experience when you join me here for your curated travel and romance content. I aim to help you feed that hunger to explore and point you towards what you need to live an intrepid life, whether you are fearless in your pursuit of travel or love…or both!
FOLLOW NIKKI
#VANLIFE: MEET CHARLOTTE, of @headoverhealing
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure.
A note from staff contributor, Lindsay Vacek:
When I first moved to Australia, I took a few months to drive around and explore the country. I had rented a 4x4 SUV and converted it into something I could easily camp in while on the road. Along the way, I met so many amazing people - some who lived permanently in their vans - and some who utilize their little home on wheels for road trips and extended holidays. Regardless, all these people had one thing in common: a passion for adventure. I became obsessed with spending nights by the campfire, hearing about their journeys and I knew I needed to bring heir stories to all of you.
van•life: a rapidly growing lifestyle where people all over the world are converting vans into rolling homes to explore more, connect with nature and the people who live in small towns, and spend more time on their creative passions while lowering the cost of accommodations on longer road trips.
What’s your name? Hi I’m Charlotte
How old are you? 29
What’s your occupation? I work in Financial Crime. My job has always been pretty niche but one that’s attracting a lot of attention at the moment in large financial institutions. I spent the last 6 years working in large corporations within various anti-money laundering teams to help protect clients and businesses from fraud, bribery, corruption, money laundering and terrorism financing.
I also do a little bit of blogging / collaborations with brands as a little side hustle.
Where are you from? I’m from England. I grew up in a little surf town in Cornwall. I then moved to a city called Bristol to study a Law. Once I finished University, I moved to London for five years.
I then moved over to Australia about 1.5yrs ago and loving every minute of it!
When did you first get your home on wheels? We bought our van a little over a year ago. How we came about buying the van is a story that I’ll never forget! I’d been talking about buying one to use at weekend for surf trips to my partner Harry for a very long time. I'd given up talking about it, then one day - out the blue, I came home to find our little van sitting in our driveway! He’d completely surprised me by finding one and bringing it home. It was the sweetest surprise - I cried happy tears for hours haha.
What was the build-out like and how long did it take? Any difficult challenges you faced? We actually bought our van fully renovated. It came with everything so we could literally take it on a road trip the next day, however we’ve had to update a few things along the way and it’s had a little mechanical makeover during the time we've had it. We’re actually contemplating upgrading to a slightly bigger one soon that we can build one out ourselves. My partner Harry is 6ft3 and he's just a tad too long for ours when lying in bed haha (although he never complained having to put his feet in a cupboard every night when we lived on the road for 3 months).
What’s your favorite part of your home? I love the bamboo ceiling which runs through the whole van and I love, love our little cooker that pulls out from the boot. Cooking out the back whilst watching the sunset over the ocean is the best feeling in the world.
Where to next?I We’re back in Sydney for the time being, working and being around friends which feels nice. We are planning to do another big trip along the West Coast at some point in the van. Perhaps for a 6 months - 1 year next time.
Best advice or tip for those wanting to choose #vanlife? Van life is my absolute favourite way of living however it isn't always (if at all) the most glamorous way to live. Sometimes there's limited access to amenities (showers, toilets etc.) and it can get very hot or cold inside the van depending on the seasons. So I'd recommend hiring a van first and doing a trip for a week or so to see if you enjoy the lifestyle before fully committing.
I'd also recommend:
Downloading camping apps such a Camperman and Wikicamps to find free camp spots.
Chatting to locals to find out the best, hidden places to explore.
Investing in a bug / fly net for the doors and windows - those mozzies are little buggers!
What is the most difficult challenge you’ve faced living in your van or on the road? You’re obviously living in such a tiny space for a long period of time with another person, therefore it's super important to be mindful of whoever you are travelling with. Van life can really intensify feelings and it can take some time to adjust but once you get into the flow of the slow life - it's truly the best feeling ever!
What song is a “must” for the road trip playlist? Oh we have so many (we’ve done some very, very long drives and created very, very long playlists) but my favs at the moment are:
How do people find you/connect? (social media/website/etc) Either through social media or in person! We’ve connected with so many others living the vanlife on our journey and made some very lovely friends, whether it’s via social media or camping next to them!
FOLLOW CHARLOTTE: INSTAGRAM / WEBSITE / FACEBOOK
WOULD YOU EVER WANT TO LIVE IN A VAN OR TINY HOME? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS AND BE SURE TO SHARE THIS WITH ALL YOUR ADVENTURE-SEEKING FRIENDS.
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
THE BEST SPOTS ALONG CALIFORNIA'S COAST: SAN DIEGO & LA JOLLA
Nikki Lazaran from Resfeber Junket is sharing the best spots along the California Coast! Follow along all month as she shares her favorite stops all over the Golden State. First Up: San Diego & La Jolla!
Photo by Kate Gantner from @nikkthequick
From guest contributor: Nikki Lazaran of Resfeber Junket
Planning a California Coast road trip? If you’re not, you should be. From the sunbathed shores of San Diego to the thick groves of NorCal’s redwoods, California is arguably one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the contiguous United States.
I’ll be sharing my favorite spots all month, so stay tuned to read up on what gives “The Golden State” its signature sparkle!
LET’S EXPLORE: SAN DEIGO
Pigment’s famous multi-toned pink wall. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Southern California is known for its sunshine and surfer-strewn beaches and nowhere embodies that more than San Diego. First thing’s first - get outside with a visit to Belmont Park’s vintage fair rides or hike Point Loma all the way to the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Feeling more adventurous? Try whale watching or sea kayaking.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, hit up some of the best grub in SD with a stoop into Herb and Eatery, Lionfish, Pisco Rotisserie for Peruvian fare, Born & Raised to sooth your steak cravings or Maestoso for delectable Italian. My ultimate recommendation? Ironside Fish & Oyster. Seafood is the way to go in this city and the folks at Ironside do tasteful nautical decor and massive seafood towers like nobody’s business. For more casual fair, The Grass Skirt specializes in poke bowls and Hawaiian cocktails set amidst a 50’s tiki bar.
Ironside Fish & Oyster Bar. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Photo by Nikki Lazaran
No day in San Diego is complete without watching the sun dip below the horizon Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.
If you can muster the energy, head out for a night on the town in the Gaslamp Quarter. Bang, Bang and its famous Ryan Gosling women’s bathroom are a must-see. Ladies, only. Sorry, boys!
Rest your head for the night at Hotel del Coronado for a dose of 1800’s Victorian with modern interiors or the decadent Westgate Hotel. Looking for something a little more low-key? Hit up The US Grant. Seeking modern and millennial? The Pendry San Diego is your spot.
Roy McMakin’s “Favorite Color” tile mural in La Jolla. Photo from @nikkthequick
LA JOLLA
A natural stop on your way out of San Diego is the slightly sleepier, but equally sundrenched La Jolla, a mere 30 minutes north. Stroll La Jolla Cove to spot sunbathers and sea lions and harbor seals. Enjoy swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, or hunkering down on your claimed patch of shoreline for a seaside picnic. Land-lovers can hike nearby Torrey Pines State Reserve for stunning seaside views.
Seal lions sunbathing at La Jolla Cove. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
La Jolla Cove. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
Adrenaline-seekers look no further - SD Expeditions specializes in half day cage-less shark encounters. Departing from the La Jolla marina, their tours take you several hours out into open water for the opportunity to free swim with blue sharks, mako sharks, and occasionally, hammerheads! This thrilling experience is not for the feint of heart and is certainly “swim at your own risk,” but I love few things more than a shark encounter.
Boating back from SD Expeditions’ Cageless Shark Diving. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
As the day comes to a close, check the tide tables and head to Wipeout and Hospitals Beach for tide pooling at low tide. When low tide happens to coincide with sunset? Magic.
Tide pooling at Hospital Beach. Photo by Nikki Lazaran
After a long day of exploring, make your way to one of La Jolla’s many delicious restaurants - most sporting a laidback and low-key vibe. A few favorites of mine include Whisknladle, Galaxy Taco (known for what, you ask? Tacos, duh), or El Pescador Fish Market. If you’re seeking fine dining, head to George’s At The Cove.
Overnight at one of my favorite boutique estancia-style hotels, Estancia La Jolla, or the equally adorable La Valencia Hotel.
Have you been to San Diego? Comment below and tell us about it! What was your favorite? use #estcalifornia and tag @nikkthequick and Resfeber Junket on your favorite social media platform to share!
Meet Nikki
Hi, I’m Nikki Lazaran, travel TV producer, avid wanderer, and the creator & author of Resfeber Junket. I plan extravagant dates and exotic travel for a living as one of “The Bachelor” franchise producers. On my occasional days off, I like to help you do the same.
“Resfeber” is a Swedish word which describes the “jitter” before an impending trip or “travel fever.” Pronounced, “res/feb/ə(r).”
I chose “Resfeber Junket” to encapsulate the travel fever I hope you experience when you join me here for your curated travel and romance content. I aim to help you feed that hunger to explore and point you towards what you need to live an intrepid life, whether you are fearless in your pursuit of travel or love…or both!
FOLLOW NIKKI
CDMX: Goodbye Folk, The Vintage Store that Left Us Wanting More.
One of my favorite things to do in a new city is to check out the vintage and thrift store scene so when I was wandering around the Roma Norte area in Mexico City, I was so stoked to find this place. If you’re a vintage clothing fan like me, you MUST stop here.
One of my favorite things to do in a new city is to check out the vintage and thrift store scene so when I was wandering around the Roma Norte area in Mexico City, I was so stoked to find this place. If you’re a vintage clothing fan like me, you MUST stop here. Chilled, cool, urban, grunge - That’s what this place exhales within its walls of re-labelled (all the clothes have been labelled with the Goodbye name), spruced up and mint condition collection of vintage gems. My personal favorite is the shoe collection; old-school brogues, bright coloured 80’s master pieces and more! Plan your stop here wisely, as you’ll almost certainly spend a lot of time, and money here. And don’t worry, if you can’t make it to Mexico City, they have free shipping to the U.S. and Canada.
P.S. whoever runs their social media is top notch. If nothing else, follow them for some major #vintageinspo
images: @goodbyefolk
Have you been here? We want to hear about it. Comment below!
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
The 5 Best "You Have to Try This!" Restaurants in Mexico City (CDMX)
There is no denying that the food in Mexico City can rivel some of the best in the world. But I only want to tell you about the place I experienced, first hand. These are my five MUST go to places (i’m sure there are countless more) that you have to try.
There is no denying that the food in Mexico City can rivel some of the best in the world. But I only want to tell you about the place I experienced, first hand. These are my five MUST go to places (i’m sure there are countless more) that you have to try. Not a foodie? That’s okay! There are definitely places for you too ;)
LARDO
Agustín Melgar 6, Colonia Condesa,
06140 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
This chic daytime cafe strikes a great balance between Mexican influences and more familiar dishes. For breakfast, the black rice porridge with mango is delicious, as well as the poached eggs in red sauce. They also serve an assortment of teas and homemade nut milks for your coffee. The interior is beautiful and I almost attempted to steal one of the stools and bring it back in my carry on.
Don’t believe us? Read more what others have to say: Yelp
2. CONTRAMAR
Calle de Durango 200, Roma Nte.,
06700 Cuauhtémoc, CDMX, Mexico
Everything is homemade or fresh at Contramar, where you'll taste the best tuna tostadas of your life. Set aside a little time for the line outside (it's worth the wait) and a little more for the menu—you're gonna want to try a bit of everything.
food photos by: Jess Chiou
3. HANKY PACKY
Turín, Juárez, 06600
Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
I’ll probably get some grief over sharing this one, considering it’s a speakeasy. You’d never know it existed if you just walked down the street. My instructions (the night i went) was to look for a place with pinatas hanging. Really?! How generic! But this place was so cool! Once i found it (yes, it was a bit of a challenge) - the freezer door opened and voila! A world beneath the world. 100% worth the effort.
4. FREIMS
Amsterdam 62B,
Hipódromo, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Let’s start with the outdoor space - A big area enclosed by a muraled wall that only features local artists - it’s a fine way to work whilst still going some fresh air and sunshine. The inside is just as impressive, with two little areas where you can buy books or vinyls, white marble tables (with power outlets underneath) and ultra comfy velvet seats. The menu here is incredibly varied, so if it’s one of those busy work days, start off with a coffee and waffles, followed by a salad, hamburger or sandwich, and finish with another coffee and danish.. job well done!
Don’t believe us? Read more what others have to say: Yelp
5. Loose Blues
Calle Dinamarca 44, Juárez,
06600 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Loose blues is one of my favorite boutiques in the neighborhood, it is vintage, unique, and perfectly curated by the owners of the place: Jacky (Mexico) and Shota (Japan). They both run the place and are always willing to give great fashion advice. This small boutique has a basement for men; the ground level for vinyl records, zines and other publications; the first floor is for women. At the end of the store, you’ll find a stairway that will take you directly to Loose Blues Dining, they serve amazing food and drinks. It’s open daily.
Have you been here? What was your favorite place you found? We want to hear about it. Comment below!
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek
CDMX: A Spotify Playlist
We’ve had this list on repeat… it reminds us of walking down the streets in La Condesa or Roma Norte and exploring new places, but also, enough pop to keep us dancing in our day to day lives. The perfect playlist when you are craving some latin flare with some up-to-speed music love.
We’ve had this list on repeat… it reminds us of walking down the streets in La Condesa or Roma Norte and exploring new places, but also, enough pop to keep us dancing in our day to day lives. The perfect playlist when you are craving some latin flare with some up-to-speed music love.
Wind Turns Cold - SAENS
Pale November Dew - The Dead Tongues
The Few Things - JP Saxe ft Charlotte Lawrence
Dejala que vuelva - Piso 21 ft Manuel Turizo
Beyond Today - James Gillespie
Oil and Water - Rationale
Outnumbered - Dermot Kennedy
Mountains - Robbie Wadge
Wildest Ones - Eves Karydas
The Descent - Bastille ft Jacob Banks, Lily Moore, Craig David and Kienja
Lungs - Jake Howden
Goddess - Cobi
Con Calma - Daddy Yankee
Bright Lights - Ziggy Alberts
Otro Trago - Sech, Darell
All my Love (Acoustic) - Imaginary Future
Depth Over Distance - Ben Howard
bad guy - Billie Eilish
MIA - Bad Bunny ft Drake
I Don’t Want Your Money - Ed Sheeran ft H.E.R.
Those Nights - Bastille
Too Late - Tadhg Daly
Oh, Mexico - Jeremy Zucker
estCA travel to: Mexico City, Mexico
We wandered around Mexico City and discovered way more than we ever thought we would. Click to read!
I had experienced layovers through Mexico City airport in my past, but they were always at weird hours. Middle of the night, always delirious and trying to navigate the airport signs for my next flight and what terminal I needed to get to. A blip in a long travel day. As someone who has had countless layovers in cities, I never base a city on the airport I’m passing through and, truth be told, I never really had an urge to explore Mexico City. Growing up in California, Mexico was always this place that was always just there, but I was never drawn to.
But, as chance should have it, I was working in Puerto Vallarta and I needed to travel to Canada for a wedding. My 6am flight had a layover in Mexico City and I remember the moment we were descending into Mexico City. I looked out the window and saw so much GREEN. It reminded me a lot of Madrid, which i love. It perked that fire in me that wanted to know more.
So when I got back to Puerto Vallarta to continue working, I thought “I might not be back in this area of the world for a long time”. I looked up the flight costs and saw it was only a $89 dollar flight to Mexico City. Now was the time to go and I’m so glad I followed my gut.
Mexico City is full of culture, people, music, food and drinks. I had the most incredible time there and over the next couple weeks, I’ll share my favorite spots and the soundtrack that has been on repeat since I left.
Have you ever wanted to explore this city? What do you want to know? Leave a comment below!
Contributed by estCA staff, Lindsay Vacek