Reesha Mercedes

Tampa, Florida

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 07:11:50 -0800

Gasparilla Season 2020

Every year since 1905, legendary pirate José Gaspar and his band of rapscallions will sail the nation’s only fully functional pirate ship into the heart of Tampa Bay on Jan. 25. Then, beads a-flyin’, they’ll lead the Gasparilla Parade of Pirates.

For more than a century, the legendary pirate José Gaspar, has invaded Tampa Bay, kicking off two treasure-filled months of parades, festivals, and other excitement. Starting with the nation’s third-largest parade and running through road races, to festivals featuring music, art and film -- the entire destination bursts with activities for everyone for eight weeks.

Pre-Conquest

The Gasparilla invasion sets sail at the south end of the Hillsborough Bay at 11:30 am and continues north to dock at the Tampa Convention Center at 1:00 pm. Although hooligans travel from destinations across the country to attend, many locals host their own Pre-Gasparilla Brunch welcoming fellow scalawags, wenches, gools to form their own unique crew to invade the streets. Hazel + Dot is stocked with all of your party needs from custom wreaths, napkins, cups, hand towels, koozies and all the accessories a wench could ever need.

Conquer The Invasion

Dressing the part is a wise choice when pirates invade your town. The Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center is easy pickins with a bounty of beads and other Gasparilla-themed goodies. You’ll find anything from pantaloons to Spanish doubloons, at Pirate Fashions and Don Me Now, which outfit scalawags and wenches of every type. In a pinch, a bandanna on your noggin and a painted-on facial scar will help you blend in! A parrot (living or dead) on your...Read More

Palm Springs, California

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 07:09:46 -0700

Visit Palm Springs for the endless views, sunshine and Tacos!

When most people think of Palm Springs it's usually associated with Arnold Palmer, Cochella and a Dry Heat. This past weekend my husband and I traveled to Palm Springs for relaxation, sun and 4 rounds of golf and it was just what the doctor ordered.

Where to Stay

Now I know this blog post is titled Palm Springs, California- but you must stay at least for one night at the Waldorf Astoria in La Quinta. The resort has over 4 golf courses, 40+ pools and many of the rooms have their own patio with personal fireplaces. The resort is sprawling and has hundreds of skinny palms everywhere. Depending on the day of the week there are day parties at the two main pools as well if you are looking for more of a party vibe.

Where to Eat

I don't know about you but I love anything and everything Frida Kahlo. The restaurant and bar Azucar had some of the most amazing cabbage tacos, hummus and veggie platter and of course refreshing craft cocktails. We were having so much fun that I didn't take many photos but if you are visiting Palm Springs add this to your list.

Best Views

If you are looking for a fun party vibe you must check out the infamous Ace Hotel in Palm Springs. When you walk into the hotel it feels like a blast from the past and you are a part of "That 70's Show".

Below is a list of a few other areas I would highly recommend when visiting Palm Springs:

New Orleans, Louisiana

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 07:09:27 -0800

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Until Next Time.

XX RM

Nashville, Tennessee

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 07:47:58 -0700

A Weekend in San Juan, PR

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 07:10:47 -0700

This past year I have travelled the most in my life; visiting almost every coastline in the US. I've been fortunate to be able to explore many new places and visit old loves again like San Juan, Puerto Rico.

As a child my family visited Puerto Rico almost annually usually spending most of our time in a little town called Vega Baja, where my mom was born and spent summers with her parents. Some of my fondest memories were spent eating pinchos and empanadas, while sipping on virgin piña coladas, baking in the sun or wandering the historic streets of San Juan. More trips than not we would find ourselves late in the day wishing we would have applied a little more sunblock throughout the day.

After revisiting the magical island after nearly 10 years, I can honestly say the island still has that spark that encouraged my parents to take trips here with my brother and I when we were kids.

If you are looking for a fun weekend trip filled with plenty of relaxation, delicious food, amazing beaches and friendly people San Juan, Puerto Rico is the place for you.

Since a weekend trip truly does go by so quickly, I’d recommend staying on the beach or near it. This allows you to smell the ocean breeze, and have great morning walks on the beach. We decided to stay at an Airbnb due to the proximity to night life and the private access to the beach right outside of the hustle and bustle of city center. I can’t say enough positive things about the Airbnb that we stayed at known as, the White Cottage with garden, steps from the beach. This bright and sunny studio is steps from the beach in the ocean front community of Ocean Park, a great place to experience the local flavors of the island, within 100 amenities walking distance.

Visit The Dreamcatcher, a local boutique hotel and restaurant that is also...Read More

Key West, Florida

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 07:03:01 -0700

Ernest Miller Hemingway (July 21, 1899 – July 2, 1961) was an American novelist, short story writer, and journalist. His economical and understated style had a strong influence on 20th-century fiction, while his life of adventure and his public image influenced later generations.

Hemingway published seven novels, six short story collections, and two non-fiction works. Additional works, including three novels, four short story collections, and three non-fiction works, were published posthumously. Many of his works are considered classics of American Literature.

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum was one of the most beautiful residential properties in key west. the grand entrance and eloquent architecture along with furry cats with extra toes made for a great way to start the morning.