Category: Destinations

How to Spend One Day in the El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico

Visiting El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico was one of my favorite things to do during my time there. It’s hard to believe that less than one hour from the hustle and bustle of San Juan, you can find a serene nature wonderland. I recently returned from a bucket list Puerto Rico vacation and my day spent in The El Yunque Rainforest was definitely a favorite. There’s not much that can beat a day spent enjoying the great outdoors. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to spend one day in the El Yunque Rainforest. Happy adventuring! 

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Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

What is the El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico?

Although smaller than most National Forests, the El Yunque Rainforest is a beautifully diverse rainforest with ample amounts of things to do. It spans 29,000 acres and is filled with waterfalls, hiking trails, swimming holes, and unique plants and animals. El Yunque is actually the only tropical rainforest in the national forest system so it makes for a special bucket list stop! 

alt txt = "Green plants and forest at El Yunque Rainforest Vegetation."
El Yunque Rainforest Vegetation

How Do I Get to the El Yunque Rainforest?

El Yunque National Forest is just a short 45-minute drive from San Juan. You can reach the rainforest by car or through a guided tour. 

  • Physical Address: El Portal Visitor Center, PR-191 Río Grande, PR 00745

Do I Need a Reservation Before Visiting?

Yes! With great beauty comes great popularity. The El Yunque Rainforest can get extremely busy and therefore advanced reservations are required. But, no worries! They are very affordable and pretty easy to get if you are a planner.

Tickets are released one month in advance and can be reserved here for just 2 dollars per car. If you happen to miss your opportunity at a reservation, they release a select number of tickets 24 hours in advance or you could try a guided tour. The tickets do go fast, so be sure you have an account made prior to the release time! 

Important Things to Know Before Visiting El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico

My sister and I at El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico

  • You can not get in without an advanced reservation (per car) or guided tour.
  • There’s no drinking water inside the national forest, make sure to bring your own.
  • Arrive early as the park does get very busy throughout the day.
  • Be prepared with a plan to make sure you make the best out of your one day in the El Yunque Rainforest (hint: There’s a one day El Yunque itinerary at the bottom of this post).
  • Don’t let the rain deter you from visiting. El Yunque sees over 200 days of rain. It is a rainforest after all…but that also leads to the vibrant green colors you will see. 

Things to Do in One Day in the El Yunque National Forest

There are so many things to do in the El Yunque Rainforest that one day may just not be enough. But, for those of you short on time, you can pick and choose your favorites from the list below to plan the perfect visit. 

Hint: I’ve included my own one-day El Yunque National Forest itinerary to make your life even easier. It’s located right below this list! 

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Hike to Mount Britton Tower

You’ll find the beautiful Mount Britton Tower at the end of a .8 paved trail. The trail itself is paved but can be slippery and a bit challenging when wet. It’s a steep and steady climb to the top, but once you reach the tower you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the surrounding rainforest and Atlantic ocean! 

Update: As of February 2023 the road is closed leading to the trailhead parking lot. You can still access the trailhead by parking at the Bano Grande or Palo Colorado Recreation Area. This will add about 15 minutes to your hike.  

Hike Through the Rainforest

In addition to the Mount Britton Trail, there are 12 other maintained trails that you could check out. The most popular, the El Yunque trail, covers 5.4 miles and will give you some of the best rainforest views. 

Other trails in the El Yunque National Forest: 

  • Angelito Trail (.7 miles): Leads to a 8-foot deep swimming hole and rope swing 
  • Vereda La Coca Trail (3.2 miles): A hard trail with stream crossings and epic views. 

Chase Waterfalls

alt txt = "Flowing waterfall in El Yunque Rainforest."
Waterfall at El Yunque Rainforest

My favorite part of visiting the El Yunque Rainforest were the amazing waterfalls! There are three main waterfalls that are easily accessible throughout the national forest. 

La Mina Falls is arguably the most beautiful and therefore the most popular. Unfortunately, it is still closed due to hurricane damage so I didn’t get to experience it, BUT it’s just the perfect reason to return. 🙂  

When it reopens, I recommend starting your day with this trail in order to try to enjoy it without the crowds. You can reach the falls after a quick .7-mile hike into the forest. Once at the falls, you can marvel at the 35-foot drop and even take a dip in the pool at the bottom. 

Important Update: As of February 2023, this trail remains closed due to repairs. Be sure to check the park’s website for updates before visiting. It is expected to reopen at some point in 2023, but no exact date has been given.

Afterward, be sure to check out Juan Diego Falls (a short .1 walk from the parking lot), and La Coca Falls (visible from the road). 

Check Out the View from Yokahu Tower

If hiking is not your thing, you can still get some of the best views of the park from the top of the Yokahu Tower. The tower is located right off of the parking lot and after a short climb up the spiral staircase, you’ll be met with panoramic views of El Yunque National Forest. 

Zip Down the El Yunque Zipline

For you adrenaline seekers, Viator.com offers multiple thrilling zipline tours. There are 11 different zip lines and 1 rappel that will give you a birds-eye view of the El Yunque Forest with amazing lush scenery! Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included so you won’t need to worry about meeting at a different location.

Stroll Around the Bano Grande

Although swimming is no longer allowed here, this historic man-made swimming pool makes for a peaceful and beautiful stroll. 

El Yunque Rainforest Tours

One of the views I captured at the overlook

If you are hoping to visit the El Yunque Rainforest, but you would rather explore with a guide there are a plethora of guided tours to choose from. Some even include San Juan pick-up and transportation so no rental car would even be needed. 

Below are some of the most popular: 

  • Viator.com offers multiple tour options to choose from just take your pick!
  • GetYourGuide offers hiking and kayaking combo tours of glowing planktons and much more.

El Yunque Rainforest Packing List

After reading all the wonderful things to do during one day in the El Yunque Rainforest, you’re likely ready to start planning your trip! Let me help you get started with a quick El Yunque National Forest Packing list (not in any particular order). 

  • 1) Hiking shoes/boots – Trust me, you WILL need this. The rocks are very slippery as you climb so you’ll want good traction.
  • 2) Waterproof phone pouch/case – Getting your phone wet on vacation and having resulting water damage is never fun (I’ve had this happen to me). Buy this and be prepared on your trip.
  • 3) Water shoes – I wore water shoes for the deeper areas of the rainforest waterfalls and found it extremely useful.
  • 4) Sunscreen – You’ll want to protect your skin as you trek throughout the day and even during your trip. This sunscreen protects you against blue light, UVA, UVB, and IRA rays.
  • 5) Quick dry towel – You’re going to want to quickly dry off as you head back from your all day excursion so don’t forget this!

Packing List Continued

6) Portable charger – Depending on how long you decide to stay at El Yunque Rainforest you’ll want to be able to charge your device. I was glad I had mine as the trip lasted a long time.

7) Swimming suit – I knew I would be climbing (and possibly slipping) on multiple rocks and come into contact with various vegetation and insects, so I figured a long sleeve suit would be best. But by all means wear what works best for you.

8) Visor – I did wear a visor to help reduce glare from the sun as I made my way up during the hike and would recommend either this or a hat.

9) Camera – If you want another option to capture the beauty of this rainforest aside from your phone, then I’d recommend getting a camera for top of the line photos.

10) Water – Water is one of those things that we seem to forget, but you will want to stay hydrated so make sure you don’t forget to pack this!

Sample Self-Guided One Day Itinerary in the El Yunque Rainforest

8:00 am: Arrive early in order to beat the crowds and head straight to La Mina Falls for a quick hike and morning swim. 

9:30 am: Hike to Mount Britton for the best views of the park. 

10:30: Check out the roadside waterfall, La Coca Falls, and then have a picnic at Juan Diego Falls.

12:20: Head back out of the park for an epic zipline tour at 1:00 pm.

3:30: If you still have more energy, you could head back into the park for one last hike or climb to the top of Yokahu Tower (the park closes at 5pm). 

FYI: This is only a sample itinerary, customize to your liking!

El Yunque National Forest FAQs

  1. How long should I spend visiting El Yunque Rainforest? That’s up to you and how much time you have allotted for the day. I spent about 4 hours with a little extra time for commuting to and from.
  2. Will I be able to swim at El Yunque? Yes! The water is so beautiful and you can swim in it. Please be careful if you decide to and wear the appropriate equipment (e.g.; life jacket). Tip: Do not venture away from your guide and group.
  3. Should I pack food to take with me? Yes, you should. If you plan on spending a couple of hours here, you’re bound to get hungry AND thirsty. Prepare accordingly. Here are some snacks and water recommendations. Make sure to clean up after yourself and throw out your trash!
  4. What time should I plan on getting to El Yunque Rainforest? The earlier the better. There will be multiple tours there as it’s a popular tourist attraction.
  5. What year was El Yunque established? It was established on January 17th, 1903 and became a national forest in 1906.

Are You Ready to Check Out El Yunque Rainforest?

Have I convinced you yet? El Yunque Rainforest definitely deserves a spot on your bucket list. With so many things to do and see, you will not regret spending one day in the El Yunque National Forest. You’ll likely want to go back the next day even! 

Need more suggestions on where to go while visiting Puerto Rico? Click below!

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Final Thoughts

I hope this blog post peaked your interest on visiting El Yunque National Rainforest. As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here. 

Find me here: I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Visiting NYC and you’d like to take a trip to Albany but don’t know how? Read this. Traveling to Austin and looking for cool museums to check out? Read this post and this one. Visiting San Francisco and looking for delicious spots to eat at? Look here and here. 

Have a sweet tooth and looking for tasty treat ideas? Check this out. Are you a wine drinker or you’d like to experience a wine tour? Read this. Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris, and Amsterdam.

Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here. Have a long flight planned and need tips on how to get through it? I’ve got you covered here. Wonder how you can be safe when traveling? Check out my tips here. Curious as to how I choose my travel destinations? Read this.

Found this blog post helpful? Any support is greatly appreciated! 🙂 

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Photo Credit

Thank you to Tatiana Rodriguez, Wenhao Ryan, Joseph Morales (for my Pinterest pin) and Paul Torres for the photos taken at El Yunque Rainforest. I discovered their work on Unsplash.com. Check them out!

Disclosure

This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling. 

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

How Far is Albany From New York City? (Best Ways to Travel)

Are you planning a trip from New York City to Albany? Wondering how far Albany is from New York City? If so, you’re in luck!

In this article, we’ll discuss all the ways to get from New York City to Albany (and vice-versa), plus provide some tips for each method of transportation.

Albany is the state capital of New York and flies under most tourists’ radar. But there are a lot of reasons why the city is worth visiting. Albany has fascinating museums, beautiful parks, and you can even take a cruise down the Hudson River!

Whether you plan to make the journey by car, train, bus, or another form of transportation, the scenic route to upstate New York can easily be completed in just a few hours.

So let’s begin! 

Distance between Albany and New York City

The distance from Albany to New York City is approximately 145-160 miles. Depending on your mode of transportation, the entire journey will take somewhere between 2.5 and 4 hours.

The Big Apple is massive, and it’s not always quick to travel between boroughs, so it’s essential to consider your starting point. The travel time and costs throughout this post are in reference to a traveler starting in Manhattan, specifically Penn Station and Port Authority Bus Terminal. 

If you are starting in Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, or the Bronx, you need to add anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour to your itinerary.

Here is a quick overview of each transportation method:

  • Train from NYC to Albany = 2.5 hours ($35-65)
  • Bus from NYC to Albany = 3 hours ($40-50)
  • Driving from NYC to Albany = 2.5 hours ($70-90 for a rental car + $20-25 in gas)
  • Flight from NYC to Albany = 1.5 hours ($100-150)
alt = "Empire State Plaza in Albany".
Empire State Plaza in Albany, New York

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How to Take the Train from New York City to Albany, New York

The best way to get from New York City to Albany is to take the train from Penn Station in central Manhattan. It’s very convenient and allows you to take in the sights of the Hudson River as you make your way from one city to another!

Does Amtrak go from NYC to Albany?

The Amtrak Empire Service is the only service that runs from NYC to Albany. The good thing is that it has trains running every day of the year. 

Every day, there are 10 – 14 trips to Albany, New York. The earliest train usually departs from Penn Station at 7:15 am, and the final train leaves the station at 8:55 pm.

How long is the Amtrak from NYC to Albany?

The trip starts at Penn Station (at the heart of Manhattan) and takes approximately 2.5 hours to get to Albany. There are five stops between each city, including Yonkers, Poughkeepsie, and Hudson. 

How much is a train ticket from NYC to Albany (and vice-versa)?

The cost of a ticket from Penn Station to Albany is between $35-65, depending on the time of day and which day of the week. Tickets are more expensive on the weekends and holidays and for trains departing early in the morning.

How to Take a Bus from New York City to Albany (NY)

Buses are typically the most affordable option to get from New York City to Albany. Some buses cost as little as $25 (one way). This is also the best option for people looking for flexibility because over 25 buses run daily. 

There are three different major bus providers that you can choose from:

  • Trailways – 7 buses to Albany per day (between 11 am – 9:30 pm)
  • Greyhound –  6 buses to Albany per day (8:30 am – midnight)
  • MegaBus – 13 buses to Albany each day (7:00 am – 9:30 pm)

Each provider is highly rated, and all buses depart from Port Authority Bus Terminal in Lower Manhattan. Once you get situated on the bus, it takes about three hours to get to the Albany Bus Station. 

Driving from New York City to Albany

Driving from NYC to Albany is a great way to take in the beauty of upstate New York. 

The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours and is a straight shot once you’re on the highway. It’s easy to find driving directions by using Google Maps.

Rental cars cost about $75-90 per day, depending on how long you rent the vehicle, and you can find the most affordable car rentals or airport transportation here. Gas for the trip will cost around $20-25 but this may vary. 

If you are taking a road trip to upstate New York, there are lots of scenic landmarks, hiking trails, and restaurants along the Hudson River, so consider planning time for a couple of pitstops.

alt = "Hudson River New York".
Hudson River

Flying from NYC to Albany

Technically, the quickest way from New York City to Albany is by plane. The flight is only 134 miles since it can travel in a straight line and takes just over an hour.  

Tickets generally cost $100-150 each way. Once you arrive, getting from Albany International Airport to the city center is very easy. 

If you do choose to fly from NYC to Albany, New York, you will find that only two airlines offer flights between cities, Delta Airlines and United Airlines. Delta flies out of LaGuardia Airport (usually has better prices), while United operates flights out of Newark International Airport. 

There are no direct flights out of John F. Kennedy International Airport. 

New York City to Albany (FAQ)

Further questions often arise for people traveling from New York City to Albany. Here are the answers to a few of the most common questions. 

What is the fastest way to get from New York City to Albany?

The fastest way to get from NYC to Albany is by flying. You can catch a flight in just over an hour, and tickets usually cost around $100-150 each way.

However, when you consider transportation to the airport, waiting to board, and possible delays, it ends up being a large chunk of your day, so it’s probably best to take the train or bus to Albany. 

Is Albany, New York, worth visiting?

Albany is an excellent destination where those passionate about history and nature can explore the oldest architecture in America while also experiencing majestic parks and scenic trails. Some of the city’s best things to see and do include the New York State Museum, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Washington Park, and the Schuyler Mansion.

alt = "The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception in Albany New York".
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Albany, New York

Is Albany a nice city?

Albany is a very nice city to explore. From impressive architecture to diverse cultural attractions, there’s plenty to explore in this upstate New York destination. It’s one of the most affordable places to live and travel in upstate New York, clean, and very safe.

Conclusion: Getting to Albany from New York City

Hopefully, this blog post has helped you feel confident in finding transportation to Albany from New York City. In all honesty, no matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey is sure to be enjoyable due to the gorgeous scenery of upstate New York and the short travel time!

alt = "Washington Park in Albany".
Washington Park in Albany, New York

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Final Thoughts

I hope this blog post peaked your interest on visiting the very beautiful Albany, New York. Which mode of travel was your favorite? Are you ready to visit Albany? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Also FYI, depending on the time of year you go Albany can be very cold; Dress warm with the following items: Scarf, hat, and gloves. As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here. 

Find me here: I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Traveling to Austin and looking for cool museums to check out? Read this post and this one. Visiting San Francisco and looking for delicious spots to eat at? Look here and here. 

Have a sweet tooth and looking for tasty treat ideas? Check this out. Are you a wine drinker or you’d like to experience a wine tour? Read this. Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris, and Amsterdam.

Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here. Have a long flight planned and need tips on how to get through it? I’ve got you covered here. Wonder how you can be safe when traveling? Check out my tips here.

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How Far is Albany From New York City (Best Ways to Travel) Pinterest Pin

Photo Credit

Thank you to Daniel Scicchitano for the photo on the Empire State Plaza, Verina Waldner for the photo on the Hudson River, Roger Lipera for the photos on Washington Park and the Albany skyline in my Pinterest pin, Yakov Leonov for the photo on The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. I discovered all of their work from Unsplash.com. Please check them out!

Found this blog post helpful? Any support is greatly appreciated! 🙂 

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Disclosure

This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling. 

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Stop By Voodoo Doughnut in Orlando Florida for the Best Donuts

I don’t know about you, but I have a serious sweet tooth so I made sure to look up Voodoo Doughnut locations and managed to stumble upon one in Orlando, Florida during my visit. I’m telling you these are some seriously good doughnuts and it honestly might just be some of my favorite doughnuts too. If you’re visiting Universal Studios or Disney World, this location is perfect because it’s located on the Universal Orlando Resort. Read all about why visiting this voodoo location (or any rather) should be your highest priority below.  

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). 

What is Voodoo Doughnut?

Voodoo Doughnut is a delicious donut spot offering tasty pastries for your consumption. It was created by Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon who are both from Portland, Oregon. Voodoo Doughnut came to life in 2003 and they have been expanding ever since. Included in their expansion is CEO Chris Schultz as of 2017. To date, there are thirteen locations in six different states and there are new stores to come. Ironically, their reason for opening a little shop in their own old town location was because there weren’t any donut locations there at the time.

Voodoo Doughnut Goodies

One thing that drew me to Voodoo Doughnut was their variety of flavors and their freshness. The donuts are baked frequently, and you can even customize your order for special occasions. If you’re a vegan, they have vegan options such as vegan cake donuts and 25 different options you can try out.

alt = "Donut menu at Voodoo Doughnut".
Voodoo Doughnut Menu

Some of the flavor options offered includes cinnamon sugar, chocolate cake doughnut, raspberry jelly (raspberry Romeo), chocolate frosting, bacon maple bar, plain cake doughnut, mini M&M (Marshall Mathers) donut, maple frosting, and apple chunks in their apple fritter to name a few, but there’s plenty more to choose from. There are over 50 flavors and Voodoo Doughnut prices are pretty affordable starting at 95 cents and up. 

alt = "Oreo caramel donut".
Oreo Caramel Donut at Voodoo Doughnut

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What Makes Voodoo Doughnut Unique?

Voodoo Doughnut is well known for their signature pink boxes and unconventional flavorings which is partly why they have long lines (in addition to the taste of course). Aside from this, they also give back to their local community and support local nonprofit organizations.

alt = "Pink Box filled with a variety of donuts".
Signature Pink Boxes

Another thing that makes them unique is that they create specialty donuts for famous individuals who are no longer with us. This can include historical figures, icons, and athletes. It’s Voodoo Doughnut’s way of honoring their legacy and contribution to the world. Keep in mind you cannot purchase these donuts. 

Planning Your Visit to Voodoo Doughnut

I mentioned earlier that there are plenty of Voodoo Doughnut locations that are a part of the Voodoo Doughnut franchise you can visit including Voodoo Doughnut Portland, Voodoo Doughnut Austin, Voodoo Doughnut Vancouver WA, Voodoo Doughnut Houston, and Voodoo Doughnut Denver to name a few. However, I visited Voodoo Doughnut in Orlando located on the Universal CityWalk. 

alt = "Voodoo Doughnut Universal CityWalk Orlando Florida White Bunny Sign".
Voodoo Doughnut Universal CityWalk Orlando Florida

Voodoo Doughnut hours at this location are Monday-Wednesday from 8am-12am, and Thursday-Sunday from 8am-2am. Keep in mind that the only way to taste these delectable treats are to go in person as the donuts are made fresh on the premises. The donuts are not shipped and aren’t gluten free. You can order your donuts ahead of time depending on the location. Check out Voodoo Doughnut’s website for more info here.

My Experience at Voodoo Doughnut

I enjoyed the ambience and of course the tasty donuts during my visit. I tried the Oh Captain, My Captain donut which has vanilla frosting and Cap’N Crunch cereal pieces and my sister tried the Mango Tango which is filled with mango jelly, topped with vanilla frosting, and Tang. The staff was helpful and professional, and the long line was worth the wait. Before you go, don’t forget to check out their merchandise and gift cards to give the perfect gift.

alt = "Oh Captain, My Captain donut with Cap'N crunch cereal pieces and vanilla frosting".
Oh Captain, My Captain donut from Voodoo Doughnut

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Final Thoughts

That concludes my experience at Voodoo Doughnut. Do you like donuts? Would you make a trip here to try them, or have you been already? I’d love to hear your thoughts. As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here. 

Find me here: I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Traveling to Austin and looking for cool museums to check out? Read this post and this one. Visiting San Francisco and looking for delicious spots to eat at? Look here and here. 

Are you a wine drinker or you’d like to experience a wine tour? Read this. Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here. Have a long flight planned and need tips on how to get through it? I’ve got you covered here. Wonder how you can be safe when traveling? Check out my tips here.

Need More Suggestions on Cool Things to Do in Orlando? Check This Out:

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Found this blog post helpful? Any support is greatly appreciated! 🙂 

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Photo Credit

Thank you Jae Park for two of the photos from Voodoo Doughnut. I discovered his work from Unsplash.com. Please check him out!

Blog Disclaimer

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling. 

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Everything You Need to Know About the Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin

I’ve mentioned before that the city of Austin is a favorite of mine due to its versatility and “Keep Austin Weird” motto. Austin has a great culture scene, and one thing I love is learning about other cultures. This is what prompted me to visit the Mexic-Arte Museum which is a fine arts museum located on Congress Avenue in Austin, Texas. This museum provides the best experience anyone could ask for when it comes to learning about Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art. Read more about this experience below.

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). 

What is the Mexic-Arte Museum?

In 1984, the Mexic-Arte museum was founded by Sylvia Orozco, Sam Coronado, and Pio Pulido. According to their website, the museum made their debut starting with the Day of the Dead festival (Dia de los Muertos). The Mexic-Arte museum is a great place to gain cultural enrichment as the museum not only shares Mexican, Latino, and Latin American cultural heritage, but also features art from local artists and emerging young Latino artists too.

alt = "Mexic-Arte Museum Sign".
Mexic-Arte Museum

The mission of the Mexic-Arte Museum is to share culture through exhibitions, collections, and preservation through the museums educational programs. What I loved about this museum is that you were able to see contemporary art and the museum also offers online exhibitions. In the event you can’t make it to the museum, you can also check out their community events. 

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Planning Your Visit to the Mexic-Arte Museum

Visiting the Mexic-Arte museum is relatively easy due to its location which isn’t too far from Lady Bird Lake. Here’s the address: 419 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701 (United States). You can visit the museum during the hours of 10am-6pm Monday-Thursday, Saturday 10am-5pm, or Sunday 12pm-5pm.

alt = "Bruno Andrade Art Exhibit".
Mexic-Arte Gallery

This museum is perfect for visitors of all ages, and the current exhibition being shown is Chicano/a Art, Movimiento y Mas en Austen, Tejas 1960s to 1980s. When I visited I was able to see the Bruno Andrade exhibit pictured below. Looking for more information regarding booking, becoming a member, or supporting? Click here. If you’d prefer to have a tour guide take you around you can do that as well.

My Experience at the Mexic-Arte Museum

I thoroughly enjoyed this museum. Prior to visiting, I hadn’t been to a Latino art museum or any Mexican art museums in general. As a person who thinks learning and embracing customs of other people is vital to growing as an individual, I was happy to attend. The staff were helpful and willing to explain some of the pieces featured, in addition to educating you on some of the history.

alt = "Mexic-Arte Bruno Andrade Artwork".
B.A. Art
alt = "Bruno Andrade Artwork".
Bruno Andrade Art

Before you leave the museum, make sure to shop and/or check out the store to pick up mementos to take with you and commemorate the experience. All items purchased support the museum. Wondering which art work was my favorite? Well, I had a few and I’ve shared some of them below.

alt = "Mexic-Arte Bruno Andrade Artwork".
B.A. Art
alt = "Bruno Andrade Artwork".
Bruno Andrade Art

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Final Thoughts

That concludes my experience at the Mexic-Arte museum. I’m glad I was able to share my trip with you and I hope you’re able to experience it for yourself. Would you visit this museum, or have you been anywhere similar to this museum? Let me know. As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here. 

Find me here: I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Looking for more cool things to do in Austin? Click here. Curious as to how fortune cookies are made? More here. Need additional information on how to travel safely? Click here.

Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here. Have a long flight planned and need tips on how to get through it? I’ve got you covered here.

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Everything You Need to Know About the Mexic-Arte Museum in Austin Pinterest Pin

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Blog Disclaimer

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling. 

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

 

How to Explore an Exciting Art Experience at Wonderspaces in Austin

Austin is one of my favorite cities and there’s a plethora of things to do. I talked about taking a quick trip from Austin to the Texas Hill Country for a wine tour before. However if you’re visiting Austin and need suggestions or new ideas for activities then you’ve come to the right place. I love art and there is nothing better than an immersive art experience that you can really get lost in. Allow me to share my experience exploring extraordinary art at Wonderspaces in Austin with you. Read more below.

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). 

What is Wonderspaces?

Wonderspaces is a place where you can experience art in a unique way. The art installations at Wonderspaces change frequently, so your experience is bound to be different each time you visit (therefore unlimited visits are actually encouraged). What makes Wonderspaces cool is that you can actually interact and immerse yourself in the interactive art installation. The mission at Wonderspaces is quite simple, it’s about connecting new audiences with experiential art. 

alt = "Wonderspaces Austin Sign".
Wonderspaces in Austin

Wonderspaces started in 2016 with creators Patrick M. Charles and Jason Shin and actually has a few different sites in different areas. If you’re unable to visit Wonderspaces Austin, you can visit Wonderspaces Arizona, or Wonderspaces Philadelphia to name a few. Each location boasts original installations that are connecting the artist with the viewers, and each location is different from the last. Some locations can be found on a cruise ship terminal, a converted movie theater, or even in Scottsdale Fashion Square.

Planning Your Visit to Wonderspaces Austin

You’ll want to plan and make time for your visit to Wonderspaces Austin because you’ll need to book your time slot for entry ahead of time. This was one of my favorite aspects of this exhibit because it gave you time to explore without it becoming too crowded.

Wonderspaces is located in northeast Austin at 1205 Sheldon Cove, Suite 2-A, Austin, TX 78753, and is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 12pm-10pm, Saturday from 10am-11pm, and Sunday from 10am-8pm. They are closed on Tuesdays. More information on booking can be found here. You’ll need about an hour to hour and a half to explore everything. You are allowed to take photos, but make sure to turn your flash off. Pricing information can be found here and you can also inquire about an annual membership if you’re big into the art scene. 

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My Experience at Wonderspaces Austin

From the moment I walked into Wonderspaces I was entranced, Austin has an awesome art scene and I was excited to see the new artworks on display. One of my favorite installations was the dinner party. At the time I visited this installation it included a virtual reality experience where you sit at a dinner table with other guests who are also watching the same story as you. Be prepared for long lines if you are able to see this because it’s popular. 

Without giving too much away, the best way I can describe this short piece of film from my point of view is trippy. You’re transported into outer space to a different time period but somehow you leave with a shared understanding with others in attendance that this was a different experience that cannot be fathomed. Keep in mind new exhibits are offered so this may no longer be there, although I would vote for this to be one of their permanent spaces.

alt = "Dinner Party Installation Wonderspaces Austin".
Dinner Party Installation By: Laura Wexler, Charlotte Stoudt & Angel Soto
alt = "Dinner Party Installation Wonderspaces Austin".
Dinner Party Installation

Another art display that I enjoyed was the Body Paint immersive installation. I’m someone who loves color and beauty and that’s what makes this a pleasurable experience. Imagine being able to see bursts of color emerging from your body as you dance and move around. After all, that is the purpose of this piece. You get to see in real time the beauty you possess through the motions you create. Imagine how creative you’d be if you were able to see your beauty manifest in real time? Food for thought. This installation is still available if you’d like to encounter it in person.

alt = "Body Paint Installation Wonderspaces Austin".
Body Paint Installation By: Memo Akten
alt = "Inside Body Paint Installation Wonderspaces Austin".
Me Posing Inside the Installation

My Favorite Installation at Wonderspaces Austin

Now you may be wondering, which installation was your favorite? I’d have to say Submergence was my favorite with Body Paint a very close second. I mentioned earlier my love for color and this installation allows you to walk through streams of light that change color in accordance with music. It’s a surreal experience that’s very hard to describe, but almost everyone spends a significant amount of time meandering through the maze of lights as it really is enthralling.

alt = "Submergence Installation Wonderspaces Austin".
Submergence Installation By: Squidsoup
alt = "Submergence Installation Wonderspaces Austin".
Inside Submergence
alt = "Submergence Wonderspaces Austin".
Different Colors Inside Submergence

Austin Suggestions of Other Things to Do

If you have more time to spare, I’d highly recommend taking a Double Decker bus tour of Austin, a boat tour, a secret food tour, a brewery tour, or a live music crawl. This list is extremely short and doesn’t include all of the possibilities Austin has to offer. Every time I visit, I try something new and I’d implore you to do the same.

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Final Thoughts

That concludes my experience partaking in stunning art work at Wonderspaces. If you’re in Austin I’d highly recommend checking it out trust me, you won’t be disappointed. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I plan on visiting their other locations in different states. If you’re able to go, write me back and let me know how it went! As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Find me here: I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Curious as to how fortune cookies are made? More here. Need additional information on how to travel safely? Click here.Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here. Have a long flight planned and need tips on how to get through it? I’ve got you covered here. 

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Blog Disclaimer

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling. 

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Visit Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in San Francisco for Yummy Cookies

While in San Francisco I was able to visit their Chinatown and had an amazing time sampling delicious Chinese cuisine at Hang Ah Tea Room (a Chinese restaurant specializing in dim sum and other delectable options). I did some research beforehand and learned all about Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. Visiting Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory was a must for me because I love fortune cookies. A delicious crunchy cookie that comes with a fortune? I mean what’s not to love? Read more about this experience below.

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here. 

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). 

Fortune Cookie History

The history surrounding fortune cookies is actually pretty muddled. There are theories which point to a Japanese immigrant creating the cookie in California, and other theories which suggest it was actually a Chinese immigrant in California. It is also believed that fortune cookies can be dated all the way back to the 19th century. Although we may never truly know who, what, how, when, or where they originated, one thing is for certain: they are succulent. 

What Are Fortune Cookies?

A fortune cookie is typically made from flour, eggs, sugar, sesame seed oil, and vanilla. The cookies are usually crunchy or crackly but some places offer a softer version of the cookie as well. The cookies have a distinctive crescent shape and have a message inside. The messages usually have a quote or saying with lottery numbers.

alt = "Inside Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory".
Inside Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

A Little About Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

Golden Gate Cookie Factory was founded in 1962 and is actually a landmark in San Francisco’s Chinatown. The location is as follows:  56 Ross Alley, San Francisco, CA 94108 and the hours of operation are Monday-Wednesday from 9am-5pm and Thursday-Sunday 9am-6pm. The factory presents with a friendly atmosphere and excellent service.

alt = "Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory Storefront".
Outside of Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

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Fortune Cookies at Golden Gate Cookie Factory

Now that we covered the history behind fortune cookies and Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory let’s talk about the pièce de résistance the cookies! This factory offers delicious tasting fortune cookies made from fresh ingredients. It’s a natural choice to want to try their original vanilla flavor, but it’s important to note that the menu items offer different flavor choices for the rest of the cookies.

If you’re feeling adventurous like me, make sure to try their strawberry, and green tea flavors you won’t be disappointed. I really enjoyed their green tea flavor pictured below. They also have chocolate or strawberry dipped cookies and cookies with sprinkles as well. I was thrilled to see there were different varieties because I had normally only encountered the vanilla version.

alt = "Chocolate and Vanilla Fortune Cookies".
Vanilla and Chocolate Fortune Cookies.
alt = "Green tea, strawberry, and vanilla fortune cookies.
Green tea, strawberry, and vanilla fortune cookies.

In the event you’re unable to make it to San Francisco directly, you can also order online. However, you can only pick up the cookies in-store. This is subject to change so keep an eye out. You can order a custom pack of 50 cookies for $17.50 or a pack of 100 for $35.00. The cookies sold in the stores have different prices as well to fit any budget. With affordable prices like these, there’s just no excuse not to try them out. 

Experience at Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

Now I know what you’re thinking, what makes this site worth visiting? Well for one, you actually get to see the fortune cookies being made on premises and in my opinion that’s one of the coolest parts. I mean what’s not to like about freshly baked cookies? If that doesn’t entice you then seeing the cookies made in a copper rotating griddle wheel right in front of your eyes will. This machine helps make 10,000 cookies per day depending on the time of the year. Video below.

Not sure if you’re going to like the cookies? No worries. Upon entering the factory you will be presented with a free sample of warm cookies which are sure to whet your appetite. Last but not least, you can also create your own fortune cookie message to your liking. This goes for custom orders as well. 

San Francisco Chinatown and Other Site Suggestions

In case you’re looking for suggestions on things to do in this area or San Francisco in general, you can also visit the Japanese Tea Garden which I’ve mentioned before in a guest post here. The fortune cookie’s convenient location allows you to be within walking distance of many shops and some of the best Chinese food San Francisco has to offer in the United States. Need some more ideas? Check out Alcatraz and Little Italy.

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Final Thoughts

That concludes my experience sampling fortune cookies at The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. If you’re in the San Francisco area I’d highly recommend visiting this timeless treasure. If you’re able to visit, write me back and let me know how it went! As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Find me here: I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Need additional information on how to travel safely? Click here.  Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here. Have a long flight planned and need tips on how to get through it? I’ve got you covered here. 

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alt = "Visit Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory Pinterest Pin."
Visit Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in San Francisco For Yummy Cookies Pinterest Pin

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Photo Credits

Thank you Meritt Thomas for the Pinterest photo on fortune cookies. I discovered his work from Unsplash.com. Please check him out!

Blog Disclaimer

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here. 

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling.

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. 

The Greatest Dim Sum at Hang Ah Tea Room in San Francisco

Visiting San Francisco for the first time and wondering where you should go for delicious dim sum? Look no further, this blog post will tell you where to go, what to order, and why you should check out Hang Ah Tea room which is the oldest dim sum restaurant in San Francisco.

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here. 

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). 

Dim Sum History/Origin

I visited San Francisco in the Spring and checking out Chinatown was an absolute must for me. I’m from New York City (Queens specifically) and NYC is home to the largest Chinatown in the United States. However, San Francisco is home to the oldest Chinatown in North America. I make it a point to visit Chinatown whenever I visit a new place to immerse myself in the culture, and to learn about Chinese people and their history. I even visited Chinatown during my trip to Toronto as well.

alt = "San Francisco Chinatown restaurants and stores".
San Francisco Chinatown

You may be wondering what Dim Sum is. Dim Sum are small Chinese dishes that are associated with Cantonese cuisine, but it is also present in other Chinese cuisines as well. Some popular dim sum dishes include sesame balls, shu mai, barbecue pork buns, char siu bao, har gow / ha gow, chicken feet, bok choy, gin cha siu bow, pork pot stickers, shrimp dumpling 蝦餃, and soup dumplings 小籠包 to name a few. You can also order green beans in most restaurants as well. 

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Hang Ah Tea Room Origin

While visiting it was a must that I check out Hang Ah Tea Room (located at 1 Pagoda Place, San Francisco, CA 94108) to sample some of their delicious and affordable eats. This staple has been around since 1920 and serves awesome food in an unpretentious setting.

alt = "Hang Ah Tea Room Sign written in red and green".
Hang Ah Dim Sum Tea Room
alt = "Hang Ah Tea Room Sign with arrow pointing downward".
Hang Ah Tea Room Sign

Hang Ah is well known amongst San Francisco locals, tourists, and Chinese families alike as it is the oldest dim sum restaurant. Dining here is reminiscent of a taste of home. The current owners of the restaurant is Billy Lai and co-owner Frank Chui who are maintaining the charm and Chinese character that everyone has come to love of this old school gem.

alt = "Hang Ah Tea Room 1st Dim Sum Since 1920 sign".
Hang Ah Tea Room Sign Est’ 1920

Hang Ah Tea Room Experience

When I ate at Hang Ah Tea Room, I decided to order the shrimp dumplings, scallion pancakes, Chinese tea, and fried egg rolls.  I was full and delighted with the delectable tastes and aromas after eating these items. Feel free to dip your dim sum in chili oil, or soy sauce to amplify the tasting experience. If what I ordered doesn’t entice your taste buds, keep in mind there are plenty of dim sum items for you to choose from. Ready to book your Chinatown experience? Book this tour or take this one. Interested in showcasing your cooking skills? How about making your own Dim Sum with this.

alt = "Shrimp dumplings, scallion pancakes, and green tea at Hang Ah Tea Room".
Shrimp dumplings, scallion pancakes, and green tea.
alt = "Crispy egg rolls at Hang Ah Tea Room".
Crispy egg rolls.

I honestly loved my experience here and what makes it worth checking out is that you’re literally a part of history. This restaurant existed decades before and is still in operation today. This tells you that they must be doing something right. In addition not only is the food delicious, it is also super affordable. I went during midday and it wasn’t too crowded.  The restaurant takes credit cards and cash to pay for your meal, but I would suggest carrying cash. You’ll need about an hour or so to enjoy this restaurant as the food is served fast and piping hot.

alt = "Hang Ah Tea Room Menu".
Hang Ah Tea Room Menu
alt = "Interior of Hang Ah Tea Room".
Inside Hang Ah Tea Room
alt = "Interior of Hang Ah Tea Room".
Inside Hang Ah Tea Room
alt = "Hang Ah Tea Room Storefront".
Hang Ah Tea Room Restaurant

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Final Thoughts on Hang Ah Tea Room

That concludes my experience dining at Hang Ah Tea Room, the oldest dim sum restaurant in San Francisco. I hope I piqued your interest and you get to visit yourself. If you do, write me back and let me know how it went! Keep in mind San Francisco offers many tours of Chinatown, here’s a great one to start your trip. As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Find me here: I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Need additional information on how to travel safely? Click here.  Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here. Have a long flight planned and need tips on how to get through it? I’ve got you covered here. 

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alt = "Hang Ah Tea Room Pinterest Pin".
The Greatest Dim Sum At Hang Ah Tea Room in San Francisco Pin

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Blog Disclaimer

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here. 

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. There is a current U.S. Travel Advisory and in some cases U.S. Travel Restrictions. The U.S. is now allowing Non-U.S. citizens and Non-U.S. immigrants to enter the U.S. (if vaccinated). However use your best judgment if you choose to travel (or you can simply hold off for now and save this guide for later). If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling.

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. 

The Best U.S. Destinations for Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, I decided to put together a last minute list of U.S. cities for Thanksgiving travel that really get into the holiday spirit. Have you traveled to any of these destinations? Read more to find out!

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer

The recommendation for the cities listed are based on my own suggestions. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and the CDC when traveling. This goes without saying, but make sure you’re of legal drinking age to partake in some of the activities mentioned. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

New York, New York

First up on the list is my hometown NYC. How could I not mention New York which is known for its holiday decorations? The annual Macy’s Day Parade is a must see in NYC. However, if you’d rather watch it on TV or online that is an option as well. If you don’t mind heights you can’t go wrong visiting the Empire State Building; the views alone will make you fall in love with New York (which isn’t hard to do). Or how about a sunset cruise in NY? I LOVE taking a cruise around the city and they’re just as enjoyable in the Fall.

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Greenville, South Carolina

I’ve really enjoyed my time in Greenville, South Carolina. Greenville has an old charm feel, as well as a new school vibe. It is known for Fall for Greenville which happens every October along with various other events throughout the fall season.

After eating all of that delicious (but heavy) Thanksgiving grub, how about trying something active? If you’re feeling adventurous rock climbing may be straight up your alley. This is a great introduction to rock climbing, where you’ll learn all of the basics. If rock climbing isn’t your thing, how about a cocktail tour? I mentioned going on my first wine tour and had a blast, so this would be great as well. It’s the holidays why not have a drink or two? You’ll learn all about Greenville’s culinary scene as well as sample a few different cocktails.

Orlando, Florida

I love Orlando, and I’ve shared my trip here at Universal Studios among other sites I had the opportunity to check out. You can easily feast on a Thanksgiving meal at Disney World, or get into the holiday spirit at Universal Orlando. If you’re looking for a newer theme park-esque experience, I’ve got you covered. How about getting an aerial view of the parks? A helicopter tour would be great, (especially at night) to really get great views and all of the deets on the sights you’re viewing. Love learning and experiencing wildlife? Then an escape to Florida’s wilderness is right up your alley.

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Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Massachusetts is another favorite place of mine to travel and for good reason. Besides visiting family, you can visit Martha’s Vineyard, or Nantucket which are both dreamy and have a plethora of things to do (e.g..; beaches, dining, and shopping). That being said, did you know Thanksgiving originated in Massachusetts? It did! Why not celebrate where the origins of this holiday took place? After celebrating, a challenging (but fun) scavenger hunt would be great to partake in. A big part of Thanksgiving for most is cranberry sauce, well why not learn about jellies and wines during this wine and sauce tasting tour? You’ll also get an etched glass to remember this experience.

Las Vegas, Nevada

I’ve visited Las Vegas in both the summer and winter, and I’ve had a great time in both seasons. You can expect less crowds as the seasons change, and plenty to do! Vegas is pretty much busy all day, but it really gets going at night. Why not see the city come to life and take a Las Vegas Night Tour? You’ll learn all about LV, and you can hop on and off at any time.

Since we’re on the West Coast, why not take a day trip and visit the Grand Canyon? If you’re running short on time, how about something adventurous like ATV riding? Riding ATV’s are extremely fun, but as always just be cautious if you decide to do this experience. There’s no way I could talk about Vegas and not mention seeing a comedy show. Seeing shows in LV, is one of my favorite things to do, and hopefully it will become yours too!

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Final Thoughts

That concludes my list of U.S. travel destinations for Thanksgiving. As always, thank you for reading! Have you been to any of the locations mentioned? Do you like to travel during the holidays, or stay home? Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know! Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.

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Interested in knowing what must have travel items to use? Check out my blog post here. Looking for free things to do in NYC? I’ve got you covered here. Traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here. Want to know what it’s like traveling during the pandemic? Read more here.

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Blog Disclaimer

This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer

The recommendation for the cities listed are based on my own suggestions. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and the CDC when traveling. This goes without saying, but make sure you’re of legal drinking age to partake in some of the activities mentioned. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

Photo Credits

Thank you to Colton Duke for the photo on New York, Jonathan Hanna for the photo on South Carolina, Quick PS for the photo on Florida, Mier Chen for the photo on Massachusetts, and Ken Yam for the photo on Las Vegas. I discovered all of their work from Unsplash.com. I do not own the rights to any of these images. Please check them out and support!

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The Best Wine Tour in the Beautiful Texas Hill Country

Have you ever been to the Texas Hill Country? Well no worries, it’s just a short drive about an hour away from Austin. What about a winery or wine tasting? I’ve never been to a winery, let alone on a wine tour, so while looking for new Austin things to do, I figured why not check out a wine tour in Marble Falls, Texas.

I learned that wine country in Texas is a big thing (I had no idea there were Texas wine tours, vineyards in Texas, or let alone wine in Texas). This particular wine tour included a 3 course meal, and after the tour you had the leisure of viewing the estate at your own pace.

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: Use your best judgment if you choose to participate in this tour (or simply hold off for now and save it for later). If you decide to take this tour, follow national and state guidelines, as well as the CDC when traveling. I am not responsible for your decision to take this tour, I am simply sharing my experience which does not serve as medical or professional advice. Please consult with a medical professional about traveling. This goes without saying, but make sure you’re of legal drinking age. Social distancing, hand washing, and mask wearing were enforced on this wine tour so let’s get into this experience! 

Texas Hill Country

The Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard is an 80 acre vineyard estate just an hour outside of Austin in the Texas Hill Country. I was ecstatic to find wine near me and a wine tasting near me. I have to say, the ease of having access to the Texas Hill Country is one thing I have come to love about Austin. One minute you’re in the city, and the next you’re in the country. The vegetation, rolling hills, rivers, history, and culture make the possibilities of things to do in the Hill Country endless. 

Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard

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Wine Tastings

The first part of the wine tour begins with an introduction explaining how wine became a part of Texas, followed by a brief history about the wine in Texas Hill Country. Next, a tasting of white wines, and Rosé were brought to the table. I was served Pinot Grigio, Pinot Blanc, and Rosé; I enjoyed the Pinot Grigio, and Rosé, but I felt as though the Pinot Blanc was too lemony. 

Wine Tour set-up.
Pinot Grigio, Pinot Blanc, and Rosé.

3 Course Meal

I was more than delighted to find a wine tour including a 3 course meal (you all know by now that delicious food is my thing), and the best part is that the wines served with the meals are tailored specifically to pair well with the dinner.

Appetizer

The appetizer was a delicious polenta cake with wild mushrooms. This dish was paired with a flavorful red wine named Montepulciano. Think creamy polenta, paired with wild crisp mushrooms, and velvety fontina cheese. I enjoyed the Montepulciano as well; I found this red wine to be sweet, earthy, and smooth.

Polenta cake with wild mushrooms and fontina cheese.

Main Course

The main course was a delectable halibut and clams in a warm broth served with Tarragon pesto and a red wine named Super Texan. I was surprised that red wine was served, because seafood is usually paired with white wine. I liked this dish as well; the Tarragon pesto definitely awakened my taste buds as I’ve only had pesto made with Basil or even Parsley. The fish was perfectly cooked and melts in your mouth. The red wine was robust, and went surprisingly well with the main dish. An additional red wine I sampled was the Reserve Tempranillo which I also enjoyed. This wine was bold tasting, and had undertones of fruit.

Halibut and clams with tarragon pesto.
Reserve Tempranillo

Dessert

The dessert was something I couldn’t wait for; I was excited to see what was in store to wrap up the meal. On the menu was a pumpkin bread pudding with Mistella drizzle, and candied pecans. The pumpkin bread pudding was awesome! The bread pudding was served hot, and gooey, and the candied pecans were the perfect crunchy accompaniment. Mistella wine was served with the pumpkin bread pudding. I learned that the process of making Mistella wine is actually unique; Muscat Canelli juice is pressed and fortified with grape brandy and is very delicious.

Pumpkin bread pudding with Mistella drizzle and candied pecans.
Mistella wine.

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Estate

The scenery at the estate is amazing, you can leisurely walk around the grounds, breathe in fresh air, and take photos of the stunning views. I recently learned that you can actually stay at this property if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway as well. 

Final Thoughts

That concludes my wine tour experience in the Texas Hill Country. As always thank you for reading! I would highly recommend it to beginners like myself or even wine connoisseurs. Have you ever attended a wine tasting? Ever been to a winery? Which dish looked the most appealing to you? Need wine glasses? Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know, please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here. 

Find me here: Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Looking for the perfect travel gift for your loved one? Sign up for my freebie of travel gift ideas. Interested in knowing what must have travel items to use? Check out my blog post here. Looking for free things to do in NYC? Read more here. Traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Need resources related to blogging? Check out my tips on email marketing here and how to protect your blog here.

Found this blog post helpful? Any support is greatly appreciated 🙂

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This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

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15 Free Awesome Things to Do in NYC

Many of you know I was born and raised in NYC (Queens specifically). This prompted me to write a blog post or rather an ode to some of my old stomping grounds. I also included some places that I haven’t been to yet but will visit one day.

Why write this post? Well in addition to nostalgia, I’ve come across many articles that offer free activities to do in NYC. However, most of them ONLY include Manhattan. This blog post will include free activities from ALL of the FIVE boroughs. After all, you can’t talk about NYC without including Queens (my personal fav since I’m from here), Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.

This will be one of the first, but definitely not one of the last blog posts I write on NYC. I just can’t fit all of the cool things to do in one blog post it’s impossible. Without further ado, let’s get started.

Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

Queens NYC

I’m going to talk about Queens first (you already know why lol). Queens is finally gaining more popularity and the respect it deserves. After all, it’s known as the “World’s Borough” due to its diversity. Some celebrities who are from Queens include the rapper Nas and director Martin Scorsese. Nas makes great music check out his albums Illmatic and It Was Written. Martin Scorsese is known for very popular movies such as Taxi Driver, The Wolf of Wall Street, and Gangs of New York to name a few. Another fun fact is that the very popular (and classic) movie “Coming to America” starring Eddie Murphy actually took place in Queens.

That being said, Love nature? Cunningham Park will be right up your alley. Cunningham Park is one of the largest parks in Queens. It is such a beautiful scenic park where you can have a picnic, go bike riding, BBQ, or just take a walk. I actually used to play tennis here sometimes and I would highly recommend checking it out. The park also hosts different programs and events. I attended their NY Philharmonic Concert with my dad for FREE. Here’s more information.

Free NY Philharmonic Concert in the park @ Cunningham Park, Queens.

Not into nature? Okay, cool I’ve got you covered. How about shopping at Queens Center Mall? I love shopping here and eating all of the delicious noms. Check out Mama’s Empanadas and thank me later. Queens Center Mall is the largest mall in Queens and with good reason. They have awesome stores, food, and great deals. Check out more here.

Queens Continued

I’m thankful that you all are getting to know me and what I like, so by now you know food is my thing. Once summer hits, you’ll have to check out Queens Night Market. Queens Night Market is a food festival that lasts all summer long and is free. You’ll only pay for food you may or may not want to sample but who are we kidding here? You’re going to want to try it all (at least that’s my truth anyway) lol. I have not been here yet (a travesty I know), but give it time, I will! More info here.

I would not be my usual self if I did not mention a museum. I love museums and for some strange reason I have not visited this one yet (argh). Last on the list for Queens (for now anyway), the Queens Museum. The Queens Museum has free options for NYC students, NYC Department of Education employees, and children 18 or under. However, they have a suggested amount of donations for regular visitors (pay as you wish) so technically it’s free. A fun fact about this museum is that it actually used to be an ice skating rink, which now features beautiful artwork collections, workshops, and tours.

Brooklyn NYC

I’m sure this goes without saying, but Brooklyn is a VERY popular borough for obvious reasons (the famous rapper Notorius B.I.G. and Jerry Seinfeld (from the cult classic Seinfeld) are from here). Therefore to start off the list, I’m going to talk about my personal fave the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. I love surrounding myself with plants and flowers. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, it’s good for purifying the air!

The Brooklyn Botanical Garden is free during the winter months, and also has select free days during other times listed here. I have been here so many times, and I never get tired of it. I would highly recommend visiting.

I’ve recently began exercising in an effort to become more active how about yourself? If not, that’s okay. You’ll still love my next suggestion which is to walk the Brooklyn Bridge.

Brooklyn Continued

I’ve walked this bridge numerous times with friends just having fun, living life, and enjoying one another’s company. It’s also great if you’d like to go solo as well. This activity is free and it’s honestly beautiful. Who wouldn’t want to take in NY in all its glory? The bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Another activity I love in Brooklyn is the Brooklyn Museum. This museum is awesome and not only has beautiful artwork, but also hosts First Saturdays which is a free entertainment event the first Saturday of every month. Trust me you do not want to miss this!

Last on the list for Brooklyn is Smorgasburg. Similar to the Queens Night Market I mentioned earlier, Smorgasburg is a free open-air food market where you can try different foods and drinks from local vendors. Entrance to Smorgasburg is free; you’ll only pay for the items you purchase. I sampled so many delicious foods I ended up stuffed but satisfied.

Manhattan NYC

Now we’re onto the borough EVERYONE knows when talking about NYC. I love Manhattan (not as much as Queens :), and found myself working in Manhattan quite a bit despite being from Queens. Some famous people from Manhattan are celebrity chef Bobby Flay, and famous actor Robert De Niro.

First up on the list is Central Park. This is honestly one of my favorite parks which runs along the Upper East and West Side. This park is so beautiful and I’ve been here on numerous occasions either with friends having a picnic, doing a photoshoot, or just walking through it after work. Check out more info here.

Me in Central Park!

Next up is the MoMA, which is the Museum of Modern Art. This is one of my favorite museums and I’ve been here more times than I can count. I also just recently learned that there is also a location in Queens (I haven’t been to it yet). This museum does have an entrance fee, BUT it is free on Friday evenings during UNIQLO Free Friday Nights. Please check this museum out, you won’t regret it.

Another great free activity is to walk The High Line. I remember seeing the construction and anticipating when it would finally be done. Friends of mine, my sister and I love to hang out here and walk. I recently took pictures here after eating brunch with friends.

Photos taken at The High Line Captured by @SheenaMahSheensPhotography

The High Line changes based on the season, but it boasts artwork, food vendors, and entertainment. You can visit The High Line any time of the year; I’ve visited during both winter and summer. More info here.

The High Line and Manhattan Captured By @SheenaMahSheensPhotography

Last up on the list for Manhattan is to take the Staten Island Ferry. I’ve taken the ferry a few times, and it’s honestly a nice relaxing free boat ride to take to and fro. More information can be found here.

Staten Island NYC

Admittedly Staten Island is a borough that I have the LEAST experience with so bear with me. I’ll try to change that. Here’s a fun fact about Staten Island, a very famous rap group named the Wu-Tang Clan comes from this borough.

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way; I remember seeing sailors walking around in Manhattan and realizing it was because it was fleet week! Staten Island Fleet Week is an event where you’re able to tour the ships for free while honoring the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps. More info here.

If you like to bike ride, jog, and walk, then you’ll want to visit Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach. I haven’t visited here yet, but I plan on going for the great views and beach activities. This boardwalk is free. More here.

Bronx NYC

Oh man I have so many funny stories of times spent in the Bronx with family. First up is City Island. It’s a given that when summertime hits, EVERYONE is headed to City Island for seafood and good times right on the water. Entrance to City Island is free, you only pay for what you decide to eat or drink. I highly recommend going here. Read more information about City Island here.

I of course have to tell you some famous people from the Bronx. Famous singer and actress Jennifer Lopez is from here along with the very talented actress Kerry Washington.

Last on the list, and the final recommendation for the Bronx is the beloved Bronx Zoo. How could I forget the Bronx Zoo seeing as how I’ve spent many school trips here as a child and with family. The Bronx Zoo is free on Wednesdays so take a trip and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

That concludes my list of free things to do. I hope you enjoyed the list and get to check out some of these awesome activities. Would you like more blog posts recommending things to do in NYC? Found this blog post helpful? Learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know!

Please comment below, and subscribe here. I’m on most social media, so let’s be friends! Click the icons located on the right side (desktop), and the bottom of the screen (mobile) to find me. Looking for the perfect travel gift for your loved one? Sign up for my freebie of travel gift ideas. Interested in my favorite travel items? Check out my blog post here. Traveling out of the country? I’ve got you covered with my detailed travel itineraries to London, Paris, and Amsterdam.

Found this blog post helpful? Any support is greatly appreciated 🙂

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This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.

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