Let’s talk about all Milwaukee for a minute because I’ve been sleeping on this city for a long time and I feel like Wisconsin can be so underrated. Now that my husband calls Milwaukee his home base for work we frequent it quite often now, and I’ve grown to love it so much. It unexpectedly is the perfect location for some amazingly photogenic shots. I’m so excited to share these instagrammable spots in Milwaukee with you!
Milwaukee Art Museum
This architectural masterpiece, designed by the legendary Santiago Calatrava, is a sight to behold in itself. The white, wing-like structures flanking the museum are practically begging to be your next profile pic.
Downtown
Milwaukee’s downtown is full of architectural gems- many of them resembling something straight out of France. From the iconic Art Deco façade of the Milwaukee Public Market to the grand dame charm of the Pfister Hotel, downtown has so many chic locations for a photo op.
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Atwater Beach
Next, head to Atwater Beach for some seriously magical beach captures. Lake Michigan rivals the ocean, and I felt like I was transported into a Nicholas Sparks movie.
Villa Terrace Art Museum
This Italian Renaissance-style mansion perched on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan is pure elegance- like something straight out of Bridgerton.
Mitchell Park Domes
Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory, also known as “The Domes,” is an unexpected Insta wonderland with lush greenery, exotic flowers, and cascading waterfalls. Each dome offers a unique climate, from tropical paradise to the arid desert. The desert dome was my favorite and so dreamy!
Bonus Tip: Milwaukee is a city that thrives on seasons. Catch the cherry blossoms in spring, the lively summer festivals, or thecharm of a snowy winter wonderland. No matter the time of year, Milwaukee has endless possibilities for capturing stunning and unique content.
Lastly, don’t forget to tag me @sincerely.savanna in your photos – I can’t wait to see these Instagrammable spots in Milwaukee come to life for you!
Okay, fellow travel gals! I’m here to vouch that Palm Springs needs to move to the top of your travel bucket list. This desert oasis isn’t just about poolside lounging (although, there’s plenty of that too!), it’s a mid-century modern mecca with a serious dose of natural beauty. We’re about to dive into a 3-day Palm Springs itinerary that’s equal parts poolside chill and adventurous exploration.
Where to stay
The Saguaro: For a vibrant and social experience, The Saguaro is the perfect stay. This iconic pink hotel embodies the Palm Springs mid-century modern aesthetic. Think pool parties, delicious cocktails, and serious Instagrammable photo ops.
Trixie Motel: The Trixie Motel is a must-stay for a truly unique Palm Springs experience. Expect vibrant pink decor, themed rooms, and a quirky atmosphere that’s perfect for capturing unforgettable memories.
Fleur Noire Hotel: For a touch of Parisian elegance in the desert, check out the Fleur Noire Hotel. This boutique hotel boasts chic floral-themed interiors, a romantic rooftop pool, and a sophisticated bar. Think luxurious comfort with a touch of European charm.
Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs: If you’re looking for a modern urban oasis, then head to Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs. This sleek high-rise hotel features stunning mountain views, a rooftop pool with a bar, and spacious, stylish rooms.
Day 1:
Moorten Botanical Garden: No Palm Springs trip is complete without a visit to the iconic Moorten Botanical Garden. Imagine rows upon rows of cacti, an explosion of desert flora that’s practically a photographer’s playground. I’m sure you’ve already seen photos of the famous greenhouse, but here’s another one for good measure.
Explore the Indian Canyons: Step back in time and explore the architectural gems of the Indian Canyons neighborhood. These vintage mid-century modern homes are like stepping onto a movie set. Think sleek lines, geometric shapes, and pops of color that you think of when you think “Palm Springs”. You can walk around aimlessly and admire the architecture or set up a guided tour with one of the multiple companies that offer them.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Dedicate your evening to experiencing the sunset at Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This rotating tram takes you on a 2.5-mile journey up Mount San Jacinto, with breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley. Spend some time exploring the Mountain Station at the top, which features observation decks, restaurants, and a natural history museum.
Day 2:
Palm Canyon Hiking: I was shocked that prior to our trip to Palm Springs I’d never seen anyone mention the actual palm springs (so crazy!). I feel like it’s an underrated spot that you don’t want to miss. The Palm Canyon Trail offers a moderate hike through a stunning canyon filled with towering palm trees. The scenery is straight out of a National Geographic documentary, perfect for some memorable hiking ventures.
Poolside Lounging: After your hike, it’s time to relax and recharge. Head back to your hotel, grab a poolside chaise lounge, and soak up the sunshine. Don’t forget that poolside cocktail either. Later, fuel up for the night with a delicious dinner at one of Palm Springs’ many trendy restaurants.
Downtown Palm Springs: Then, stroll down Palm Canyon Drive, pop into the trendy boutiques and art galleries that line the street. Find unique souvenirs, locally-designed clothing, and desert-inspired art that perfectly captures the Palm Springs vibe. You can also try a famous date shake here!
Day 3:
Joshua Tree National Park: No Palm Springs itinerary is complete without a day trip to the otherworldly wonderland that is Joshua Tree National Park. Our favorite hikes for beginners included Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Cholla Cactus Garden, Skull Rock, and Arch Rock Trail. And be sure to have your camera handy because there are no shortages of photo ops at this national park.
Pioneertown (Optional): If you’re feeling adventurous and have some extra time, consider a stop at Pioneertown. This quirky desert town is about an hour from downtown Palm Springs. It offers a glimpse into the Wild West, complete with false-front buildings, a historic saloon, and occasional staged gunfights. Grab a bite to eat at a classic western diner, browse the unique shops, and snap some fun photos in this kitschy desert outpost.
Whether you’re headed to Palm Springs for a girls getaway, a romantic retreat, or for some family fun there’s something for everyone. Be sure to take it slow, drink A LOT of water, and don’t forget your moisturizer (the dry desert air is no joke). I hope this Palm Springs itinerary helps you get a head start on your planning. Enjoy that sunshine for me!
Kawaguchiko: lake life, charming villages, and of course, Mount Fuji – the holy grail of any Japan trip. But with so many spots to see this legendary mountain, how do you choose where to snag the perfect shot? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! This guide spills the tea on the best Mt. Fuji photo spots. Get ready for epic views and serious travel goals.
1. Oishi Park
If there is only one recommendation you take from this list, let it be Oishi Park! The tranquility combined with Mt. Fuji in the background felt like something straight out of a movie. The best part? Oishi Park is all about a serene atmosphere, perfect for a picnic lunch with Mount Fuji as your majestic backdrop. If you visit in the fall you’ll be able to catch the kochia bushes at their brightest red which only adds to the dreaminess.
2. Chureito Pagoda
If you want that quintessential Kawaguchiko-with-Mount Fuji shot, then the Chureito Pagoda is it. This bright red pagoda perched on a hill in Arakura Sengen Park is such an iconic spot for the best Mt. Fuji views. Climbing the 397 steps might test you physically, but trust me, the panoramic views from the top are worth it. Just prepare for some serious posing competition – this spot is popular for a reason!
3. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
The Fuji Panoramic Ropeway is a magic carpet ride to unbelievable views. This scenic gondola whisks you up Mount Tenjo, offering jaw-dropping aerial panoramas of the entire region. I remember thinking the scene looked like something straight out of a Ghibli film. Mount Fuji will be front and center when you get to the top. Tip: Pay a little extra for a turn on the swing that faces Mt. Fuji- the best swing views you’ll ever have!
Bonus Tip: Seasons Matter
Mount Fuji is a stunner year-round, but the way you see it can change depending on the season. Spring brings out the cherry blossoms for a magical pink around the mountain. Summer offers clear skies (perfect for reflection pics in the lake!), while autumn offers fiery reds and oranges throughout. Winter transforms everything into a snowy wonderland, making Mount Fuji look even more beautiful.
Plan Your Fuji Adventure
Here’s the tea on maximizing your chances of scoring that dream Mt. Fuji pic:
Check the weather forecast: Clear skies are best for epic views.
Sunrise or sunset? Early mornings and evenings often have the best lighting.
Plan your travel time: Give yourself enough time to get to your chosen spot. We arrived at Chureito Pagoda just at sunset and we ran out of light before we were truly satisfied with our shots.
I hope this gives you a good starting point for planning the best Mt. Fuji photo spots! If I’m being honest, there truly are no bad views of Mt. Fuji. Some of my favorite photos of Fuji were taken as we were just walking around town. You really can’t go wrong!
Grab your girlfriends and let’s go! The Windy City is calling. This Chicago girls trip itinerary is your ultimate guide to a weekend with your besties. Get ready for stunning architecture, delicious eats, and enough shopping til you drop. We’ll be staying at the Radisson Blu Aqua, a chic hotel with stunning riverfront views that puts you in the heart of the city.
Day 1:
Brunching: Kick off your trip with aesthetic eats at Venteux. This French bistro boasts a Parisian-inspired atmosphere and brunch dishes to die for. Think fluffy pancakes, decadent eggs Benedict, and bottomless mimosas.
Cloud Gate Calling: No trip to Chicago is complete without a photo at Cloud Gate, also known as “The Bean.” Located in Millennium Park, this iconic sculpture reflects the city skyline and is the perfect Chicago-esque photo op.
2D Fun: One of the cutest cafes I’ve visited to date, 2D Cafe, is a must when you visit Chicago. This adorable cafe is a haven for all things kawaii (cute in Japanese). From their pastel-colored latte art to their desserts shaped like cartoon characters, you cannot miss this spot. The owner also has a bit of an obsession with Emily in Paris (we have that in common), which inspired a lot of the artwork!
Shake It Up: End your day with a trip to Jojo’s Shake Bar. This Chicago favorite offers over 100 milkshake flavors- from classic chocolate to adventurous options like avocado or PB&J. The atmosphere is fun and funky and the desserts are so Instagrammable!
Day 2:
Magnificent Mile: Get ready to shop till you drop on the Magnificent Mile. From designer brands like Chanel and Gucci to more accessible retailers like Nordstrom, I promise you won’t leave empty handed. Whether you’re window shopping or splurging on something special, this is the place to be.
Cloudbar for Skyline Sips: After conquering the Magnificent Mile, check out Cloudbar at the John Hancock Center. This bar offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot for a cocktail to celebrate your successful shopping spree.
Dinner with a View: For dinner, grab a table at one of the many restaurants overlooking the Chicago River. Chicago is also home to a number of rooftop restaurants like Cindy’s, Raised, and Streeterville Social.
Day 3:
Farewell Feast: Lastly, stop in for a final brunch at Radisson Blu Aqua’s in-house restaurant. With a menu featuring both American and European options, it’s the perfect last meal before heading home.
Explore at Your Own Pace: Depending on your flight time, you might have some extra time to explore other parts of the city. Stroll along the Navy Pier, visit the Art Institute of Chicago, or catch some skyline views at North Beach.
Bonus Tip: Consider purchasing a Chicago CityPASS for discounted admission to some of the city’s top attractions, including the Skydeck at Willis Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Shedd Aquarium.
Overall, I hope this Chicago girls trip itinerary gives you a good idea of what the city has to offer for a fun getaway. There’s so much to see and do, don’t feel like you have to squeeze it all in one trip (just another reason to plan for a future girls’ trip!).
Tulum: stunning beaches, trendy restaurants, and ancient Mayan ruins – it’s no wonder everyone’s flocking there. But finding a place to relax that isn’t overrun with tourists can be a challenge. Enter Kan Tulum, my new favorite hideaway. This place wasn’t just a hotel, it was an otherworldly adventure of its own.
Imagine stepping off the bustling main strip into a lush jungle paradise. Talk about a mood switch! From the open-air lobby with its ambient music to the palm trees practically growing into our room, it felt like stepping into a chic treehouse. It was so fun to explore because there was something unexpected around every corner- winding staircases that lead up to the ‘nests’, hidden hammocks made for relaxing, and even a private cenote.
Jungle Sanctuary with Modern Perks: Our room was an extension of the jungle, with floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Each suite also has its own private balcony. Think waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the breeze rustling the leaves – way better than any alarm clock! Plus, the king-sized bed was massive and comfy, and the spacious bathroom with a rainfall shower was like a spa – perfect for pampering after a day of exploring.
But here’s the best part: Even though Kan Tulum felt like a secluded oasis, we were literally steps away from all the Tulum action. Trendy restaurants with killer tacos? Check. Cute little shops to find the perfect Tulum-inspired outfit? Check. And of course, the beach with water so turquoise it looked fake? Absolutely.
Mornings Made Easy: Our days were a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Mornings started with a dip in the pool surrounded by the jungle canopy. Speaking of mornings, Kan Tulum also took care of breakfast. We’re talking delicious, healthy options (think fresh fruit, local ingredients). Plus, the poolside lunches were Instagram-worthy – and tasted even better!
Adventure Awaits (and Relaxation Follows): Afternoons were all about exploring the Mayan ruins, getting lost in the Tulum markets, and soaking up the sun on the beach. But the best part? Knowing that after all that fun, we could retreat back to our little jungle sanctuary for some peace and quiet. There is also a fabulous spa onsite if you want to go the extra mile
Kan Tulum wasn’t just a hotel, it was an experience. It was the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, with a healthy dose of jungle vibes thrown in for good measure. So, if you’re looking for a place to chill in Tulum that’s close to the action but feels a million miles away, this is your spot. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
