Travel Archives - Something Dashing

January 26, 2016

kicking up snow

View More: http://davidgillettephotography.pass.us/melanie-wiener

HI Friends!

I am still in the middle of settling into my new house. I finally got my sofa delivered, which was really exciting since now we can sit somewhere other than the floor or my bed. It’s slowly coming together, but like with anything–good things take time! Once things start to settle, I will share some photos. In the meantime, work has been quite busy and I have been doing this Orange Theory Fitness Challenge, which has consumed a lot of my time and energy. It’s such a killer workout but also such a hard one! Have you tried it? I’m also regularly doing hot yoga. I love the hot aspect of it especially when I feel like I have so much going on.

It’s been quite warm the last few days in LA. We had a few weeks of winter in LA and then the sun decided to come back and give us some high 70’s weather. With this weather, I can’t help but to find myself on the beach soaking in all the sun and drinking a pina colada. This might just be me planning my next trip. But on the other hand, I am enjoying winter. We are expecting cooler temperatures this weekend and some rain. I would take the snow over the rain any day. The rain makes everything much more difficult.
View More: http://davidgillettephotography.pass.us/melanie-wiener

We’re still early enough in the snow season that you can plan a trip to go skiing, snowboarding, or lounging. There are so many airfare deals going on right now, that it is the perfect time to book a trip (even if you decide you want a beach vacation). I found airfare going to Denver for $100 roundtrip! If you’re planning your winter getaway, it’s important to plan for the right weather meaning you definitely want to get the right coat. I like having options when I go to the snow meaning I like my long puffer (this one and this one), or the short and casual puffer and then a furry coat for evenings and going out. There are so many different kinds of jackets that will ultimately help you fight the cold, but I would highly recommend a wind proof, water resistant puffer. It makes all of the difference and you can easily find really cute ones! Cozy up with a cute sweater under your puffer like this one (on sale and pink under $90), this cashmere halogen sweater is so comfortable and comes in so many colors (also on sale under $50) and always love a Rag & Bone sweater and this one happens to be on sale. It’s so important to find the right boots as well, you definitely don’t want your feet to freeze or start to tingle because you can’t feel them. I love these boots for going to dinner (not walking in much snow), they are super cute and a much cheaper version (under $100) of the Stuart Weitzman 50/50 boots. If you’re looking for something more upscale, the boots I am wearing keep my feet warm and the rubber sole make it easy for me to walk in any level of snow. Grab your beanie, your gloves, bucket bag (under $60) and you’ll be ready to conquer the cold on your way to dinner. I’m about ready to grab all those items and put them in my suitcase and book that Denver ticket myself!

January 19, 2016

Staying warm

DSC_8397 (1)

HI FRIENDS!

I’ve spent my first whole weekend at my new place this weekend, really taking a moment to relax and spend time with friends. Oh not to mention, watching the amazing win of the Broncos! Yay for the Broncos! I have so much furniture shopping to do and decor shopping. It is definitely my favorite part of moving into a new place. This is the first time where I am moving into a place that is mine & that I can fully decorate on my own and more so get pieces I know my college friends won’t destroy. It’s actually been pretty funny having some friends over since I don’t have a couch yet, the only place to sit is the floor or my bed.

It’s been a bit chillier than most people would think for LA but not quite as cold as it has been in Colorado or other parts of the country. I yearn for the next time that I can wear my puffer coats. Hint hint…planning my next trip to Colorado and thinking of planning a trip to New York. I have gone through several different puffer coats trying to find ones that keep me warm without having to wear 5 million layers underneath. I absolutely love the one that I’m featuring in today’s blog post that was given to me as a gift or I also have my North Face (on sale under $220) from college, which kept me warm through the coldest of blizzards. If you like the faux fur hoodie, this North Face is similar to the Moncler and currently 25% off. Not only is the importance of keeping your body warm important, but so is keeping your ears, hands and feet warm. It’s so important that my ears stay warm or they begin to hurt due to the cold weather (and that’s not pleasant!). The beanie I am wearing is Adrienne Landau which I had purchased on Gilt.com right before heading out to the mountains. This J. Crew beanie is very similar and currently on sale 30% off with code SHOPSALE or this ribbed trapper hat on sale 50% off with code SHOPSALE. With your ears warm, keep your fingertips from frostbite with a cute pair of glittens (on sale 30% off with code SHOPSALE) or these leather tech gloves ($100) which make texting in the cold that much better. I don’t know about you but I have been on the turtleneck trend for a little while and now that I am seeing more of them in storefront, I’m looking forward to seeing more of them this winter. I am currently craving this one and this one which comes in a gorgeous red (on sale 40% off, no code needed). If you love Alice & Olivia and want to give turtleneck a try, this cowl dress is on sale for under $130.00!

I’ve had a few people comment on my lip color and wanted to share with you what kind of lipsticks I use. The beautiful red in the photos from today’s post are Lancome, and they are amazing! Seriously, such great quality and they last long.

Photography: Noah Berg Photography. Noah-Thank you for capturing photos that look so natural.

I have some exciting news to share with all of you. It’s been in the works for a few months now but I am finally ready to share with you. Something Dashing is almost a year old and with that and the fact that I have decided to continue to work on the blog, I decided it was time for the blog to get a makeover. In November, I hired Harper Maven Design and started to work with Tori. She has been so easy to work with and communicative. She has been able to make my vision a reality and it’s all starting to become real. I am so excited for the future of Something Dashing and to show you all the blog’s new image really soon.

Here’s a sneak peek at my style board…stay tuned!

FullSizeRender

January 12, 2016

Sundance, Utah Travel Guide

Why Sundance?

We had just come back into town from Colorado on a Sunday and on a Tuesday, we decided let’s head to Utah to ski. We had friends staying in Deer Valley but we decided to try something new and visit the beautiful and small town of Sundance. Sundance radiates through the “art of untouched nature through skiing, snowboarding, biking, hiking and fly-fishing” & it really is just that. If you’re looking for quiet and beautiful nature, this place is just it.

Where to stay:

Well, you don’t have much choice other than to stay at their resort itself. They have three types of accommodations for rooms and suites. They offer a cabin-like feel which is what we decided to do. The cabin we stayed in very much had a rustic feel to it. There were no upgrades in the cabin such as small tvs, wood burning fireplaces, and everything the cabin was made of was wood. If you’re looking for larger rooms and some upgrades, consider the River Run cottages or the Pines.

Where to eat:

Tree Room This is the higher end restaurant that you can find at the resort. Here, you can enjoy the rustic but romantic atmosphere of candlelight and beautiful Native American art from Robert Redford’s private collection.

Owl Bar This is a restored 1890s bar that was moved from Wyoming to Sundance. On the weekends, they offer live music from local artists. You really feel like you’re in a small town.

Foundry Grill Probably the place you might be eating most at as they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Even if you don’t end up eating here, I recommend you check out the room itself.

What to do:

Skiing, I find that to be a given. But if you’re an avid skier, you will not ski Sundance as much as you would ski Beaver Creek, for instance. The mountain is small and the chair lift is not a high speed chair making the time you spend on a chair lift, much longer. There are 3 chair lifts and about 40 runs. When we were there, the weather was extra cold (and I mean freezing) so our ski day didn’t last much longer than a few hours.

Night Skiing-We didn’t get a chance to get around to doing night skiing because the weather was just too cold. It would drop to the negatives at night and the thought of being freezing during the day with as many layers as I could get on, I just couldn’t bear the thought of the nighttime temps. But this is definitely something I want to try on my next visit (spring time).

Zipline-So, this looks amazing and an absolutely must! (waiting for the spring weather). I think the thought of high winds coming at my face on a really cold day kinda turned me away from this but it looks so amazing. While you’re skiing, you just get in line (with a reservation) to do zipline for an hour and then just get back on your skis. How cool is that?

Winter Fly-Fishing I’ve never been fly-fishing but I think it would be a really unique experience and what better way than in a beautiful place.

Cross-Country-Looking for something a little different than skiing? Cross-Country skiing seems like the perfect kind of different. I like to think of it as hiking in the snow.

January 8, 2016

Denver, Colorado Travel Guide

Denver

So, I frequently visit Denver because I used to go to school in Boulder and many of my friends still live in Denver. Every time, I land in Colorado, I feel at home. Everything feels right. The people are so kind and down to earth, people stop on the street and tale a moment of their day to say hello and ask how you’re doing. We don’t usually see that in LA. I frequently tend to over extend my kindness in the city and it doesn’t work as well as it would in Colorado.

Where to Stay?

I usually stay with friends in the highlands (lower highlands) or with my boyfriend in Cherry Creek (such a cute little area & also known to be higher end). I’ve stayed at the following hotels for local staycations.

JW Marriott (Cherry Creek) This hotel which feels more like a boutique hotel is in the heart of the shopping district and fine restaurants. If you’re looking to get away from the Downtown craziness but still experience Denver, this hotel is for you. They are running special packages right now. Looking to come for a romantic getaway? Use code ROM or looking to come with the girls for some shopping? Use code SHO. At least you can tell your hubbies, you’re getting a discount!

Four Seasons (Downtown Denver) If you’re looking for a bit of class and five start treatment, you definitely want to be staying at the Four Seasons. They do it better than anyone else. You will not be disappointed in the type of room you get. In for a splurge, check out the premiere corner room, how amazing is this room?

Brown Palace Hotel & Spa (Downtown Denver) This romantic and charming hotel is located in the center of Downtown Denver. When you’re at the Brown Palace, you feel like you’re in a different city, it’s very charming, homey, yet still high class. I personally have not had their Sunday Brunch, but I’ve heard it’s amazing! (If you go, let me know!). They are currently running a promotion for Valentine’s Day that you can find here or use code 5RP. While you’re booking your Valentine’s Day getaway, make sure you book the stay in your PJs & breakfast in bed package, here. That simply sounds amazing!

Grand Hyatt (Downtown Denver) If you’re looking for something less expensive but still very nice, I recommend staying here and walking over to local restaurants. The Hyatt is located near the Hyatt Regency which boasts an incredible rooftop bar, Peaks Lounge, which I definitely would add to your bucket list.

Where to Eat:

Peaks Lounge: This has the best view of the city of Denver. I came here on a double date and it was the perfect spot to cozy up to and enjoy the sunset. Of course, the ladies enjoyed a glass of wine while our guys enjoyed some whiskey (and let me tell you, Denver has a huge whiskey variety!). Be sure to try their lobster mac n’ cheese, cheese selection, sliders and tacos.

Edge Restaurant: Every day from 5-7pm, they offer to take the edge off of your day with 50% off selected bar foods and drinks. They also offer live music on the weekends, so if you’re looking to get a little dancing in or enjoy a fun but not rowdy evening, Edge is the perfect place.

Terminal Bar (Union Station): Looking for something different? This is the perfect place. Every week Monday through Friday, they have happy hour from 4-6pm offering special drinks. If you’re a whiskey drinker, try the Wynkoop Sour and if you’re into a little bit of tequila, try the El Diablo. And, don’t forget to get a burger with those drinks!

Sushi Den (South Pearl Street): Ok, I’m a sushi lover (that might be an understatement), but Sushi Den is one of my favorite sushi spots. You can find Sushi Den in a cute neighborhood in Denver. Even if you don’t eat here, definitely check out the neighborhood. I also recommend a dinner reservation if you can make one, it tends to get quite busy there. I highly recommend on the sushi menu the firecracker roll, red dragon roll, kobe beef roll (a MUST), and the shrimp tempura roll. On their dinner menu, try the taste of sashimi, short ribs, and the kobe beef skewers.

Linger (LoHi): Happy Hour is served Monday-Friday from 4-6:30pm in their restaurant and rooftop. I love their waffle fries, wings (feel like that’s a must for a football game) and their sliders.

Truffle Table (LoHi): I love a cute place to get a glass of wine and try out some cheese and charcuterie and this place is the definition of cute and cozy.

Craving Treats:

Little Man Ice Cream: If you’ve just had dinner at Linger, walk outside and around the corner and get dessert at Little Man Ice Cream. If you didn’t have dinner at Linger, save dessert and get some ice cream. Before I became quite lactose intolerant (so sad), I would enjoy ice cream from Little Man. It’s such a cute spot, perfect for date night with your significant other or date night with your friends! Try the Space Junkie, Salted Caramel, Dulce de Leche, Strawberry and Banana Pudding.

Voodoo Doughnuts: I’m not much of a doughnut person, but if you are I’m pretty sure you will love this place. Best part is they are open 24 hours so you can fulfill that craving at any point!

What to do:

Go to Boulder! It’s a 35 minute drive from Denver and it’s so beautiful. I am not just saying that because I went to school there but it truly is a beautiful little town and the school campus is stunning. There are so many amazing restaurants to try out there (the Med, Brasserie TenTen, oak on fourteenth) and if you decide to spend the night, the St-Julien is the best hotel in town.

Botanical Gardens, Sports Authority Field for a Broncos game or Coors Field for a Rockies game.

Last but not least, Red Rocks Amphitheater is a MUST! It’s such a beautiful and stunning place, words can’t express how beautiful it is.

View More: http://brandonhillstories.pass.us/something-dashing

Photography: Brandon Hill

(if you’re in Denver & need a photographer, Brandon is so sweet and knows exactly what he’s doing)

Where should I plan my next trip…any suggestions?

January 1, 2016

Beaver Creek, Colorado Travel Guide

My second home ❄️❤️ #somethingdashing #dashingtravels #travelsSD #coloradophotography #bluebirdday #colorfulcolorado #colorado #beavercreek #visitcolorado #ritzcarlton

Why Beaver Creek?

I spent several years of my life in Colorado and knew there were so many hidden gems. After coming across Beaver Creek, I just knew this was a unique place, unlike the other resorts in Colorado. I can’t say I have been to all the resorts in Colorado but I have been to most of them. Many people would choose Vail over Beaver Creek, but to me Beaver Creek really feels like a small mountain town isolated and completely remote. I can’t recommend Beaver Creek enough!

Where to Stay

Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch or Timbers Bachelor Gulch (where you still receive all the amenities of the
Ritz Carlton). This place is so amazing! It is so cozy and so cabiny, yet modern and luxurious. I stayed at the Timbers Bachelor Gulch in a 2 bedroom 2.5 baths. It was more than enough space for all four of us with a kitchen that opened to the dining and living room, two master bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, a guest bathroom and a laundry room. The best part was the fireplace that we cozied up to after a long day of skiing, oh and the heated tiles in the bathrooms. I have stayed in a few different hotels in Beaver Creek, and this by far exceeded all of my expectations and I will definitely be staying here the next time I come to town. They have two delicious restaurants, one being Spago, a 20,000 square foot spa, a ski-valet (they take your boots off for you and keep them warm overnight), cookies when you get off the mountain and a beautiful roaring fireplace in the Great Room.

It's a bluebird day in Colorado ☀️ #somethingdashing #travelsSD #dashingtravels #colorado #beavercreek #bluebirdday #bachelorgulch #coloradotography #avon

What to do?

Ski: Definitely, do this. I recommend checking out Christy Sports for ski and boots rentals. They are amazing at what they do!

Snowshoeing: They have a dedicated snowshoe and cross-country ski area of tracked and rustic trails. Check out their website here.

Sledding: You can go sledding on your own in front of the Ritz Carlton. Buy yourself a sled at Walmart and take it out on the baby slopes.

Dog Sledding: I didn’t get a chance to dog sled this trip but I have done it before and it’s an absolute must. See here.

Where to Eat?

Breakfast: Spago in the Ritz-Carlton lobby. The Eggs Benedict are so good, just the right amount of fuel to get in your body when you hit the slopes!

Apres-ski: Spago & the Great Room at The Ritz Carlton. I suggest getting the chili (even as a snack when you’re looking to stop during the day), hot chocolate with baileys and the whipped cream on top is just perfect when coming back from a chilly day! Another great apres-ski spot is 8100 at The Hyatt (the bottom of Centennial Express). They have a bar menu that starts at 2:30pm. Get the tater tots, pigs in a blanket, chicken wings or the french onion soup. The bar offers great service and atmosphere.

Dinner: Spago at The Ritz Carlton, they have an incredible dinner menu. There’s just so much to choose from; the pastas dishes are the perfect size (if you’re not a big eater) and light, the trio of sashimi is also a good light dish and the fish is so fresh. The sliders & pizzas are another favorite. Oh, and order the sorbet it’s so good! Zino, it’s just a little ways out of Beaver Creek in Edwards. To be exact, it’s about 5 miles away or an easy 15 minute drive. It’s a bit more low key than the Ritz, but the food was incredible. I recommend the butternut squash tortellini, ravioli, the carpaccio and the pizzas. All were delicious! 8100 at The Hyatt; in addition to their bar menu have a great dinner menu.

Things to look out for:

Altitude Sickness: I can’t say I have been prone to altitude sickness as I lived in Colorado so I feel like I am used to the altitude. I recommend drinking a lot of water and remember to stay hydrated! Some of you may decide to spend a night in Denver before directly heading up to the mountains. This may not be such a bad idea, allowing yourself to get used to the altitude before heading up into higher altitudes.

How to get there:

Car: Rent a car at DIA (Denver International Airport) and take the highway up to the mountains. It’s a beautiful drive, I highly recommend it and it allows you to sight see along the way.

Shuttle: For $100, you can take the Colorado Mountain Express (CME). It typically takes 2-3 hours depending on conditions.

Plane: From DIA, fly directly into Eagle Airport and from there take a shuttle to Beaver Creek which is no more than 30 minutes.

Have you ever been to Beaver Creek? Tell me your stories.

December 16, 2015

step foot into paradise

September 1, 2015

Santa Barbara

Last weekend, I spent the weekend with my friends in Santa Barbara. One of my friends lives in San Francisco and the other lives in Denver so we decided to meet in Santa Barbara for a small girls getaway. We rented an airbnb cottage a couple of miles away from downtown Santa Barbara.

We did enjoy some R&R but we also had a pretty active weekend. We had a chance to go hiking in Montecito which is something I highly recommend doing-you will see some of the most beautiful houses! After our 4-mile hike, we had lunch in the town of Montecito at The Honor Bar. If you’ve never had a chance to go to Honor Bar, I think I know the menu without even having to look at it (only because my office is right upstairs from an Honor Bar). I totally recommend the chicken sandwich, the honor burger, the kale salad and the osaka sushi. There are plenty of others but those are some of my top favorites. After our delicious lunch, we ran a couple of errands and perused the Montecito Country Mart and then home to our small cottage for a nap. Post-nap, we went to Milk & Honey-they have some amazing appetizers and cocktails (oh and they have a great happy hour menu). We ordered the ahi tuna tartare, date with a pig and the brie cheese plate. We only had a few small plates before we walked on to the next spot. We bounced around a lot before having dinner at Olio Pizzeria. They had a vast pizza list to which we ordered one and we also ordered the carpaccio and the burrata & prosciutto place-all of which were delicious.

On Saturday, we had some brunch and then headed kayaking near Isla Vista. It was a beautiful setting until we were noticed of a great white shark near the pier to which we soon kayaked quickly back to the shore. We went wine tasting, slightly different than wine tasting in Napa Valley but it was still so fun to hop around from winery to winery. There are different wineries for people who are laid back or for those who are looking for something a little higher end. One of the ones we attended was Riverbench Winery which a bit fancier than the first one we attended where we had a flight of champagne!