1. These olive green jeans/pants - love this brand! Best fit! True to size.

2. These striped pants. I have 2 other patterns - the fit is awesome! True to size.

3. This bandana print dress. It is so cute. You have to get it! True to size - length is perfect for me (I am 5’3”)

4. These amazon bandana print jeans. I was surprised how good the quality/fit is - true to size for me. Lots of colors!!

5. This white lace top. Will be so good with jeans or pants for fall! I sized up one.

6. A very basic purchase that I will wear a bunch - this amazon striped tee.

7. This amazon v-neck sweater. Will be good with everything. True to size but go up if you want it roomier!

8. I love this silk pattern fringe top. I ordered large - have not gotten mine yet but will show you when I get it!

9. This ruffle collar olive jacket. The perfect fall layer - true to size.

10. Another great fall layer - this jacket! With a white tee + jeans - easy! True to size.

11. So excited to take this oversized scarf on my upcoming trip!

12. These chocolate brown wide leg pants are a must for fall!

13. A pop of red for fall! These can be the whole outfit! White top, jeans + RED! Yes!

14. This new baublebar necklace is the perfect fall accessory! Brown on brown!

15. I have this top in 4 colors. It is the BEST for travel and for everyday!! True to size.

16. These MOTHER jeans are the cutest fit!! Love the petite length.

17. This reversible rollneck cardigan is a fall staple! I got white but kind of wish I had gotten the olive color! I sized up one.

18. These zebra mules - also an entire outfit! Sweater + jeans + these = done!

19. Another awesome new baublebar necklace! I have already worn this a ton. literally goes with ANYTHING!

20. I have this cashmere top in 3 other colors. Size down! I love the Lavender!!!!

21. You can see all of my amazon fall purhcases here!

CLICK HERE TO SHOP ALL OF THE ABOVE!!!

1. The Baublebar Sale has been so HOT! 25% off sitewide + 20% off of their cute personalized bags and totes!! Such a good time to order upcoming birthday gifts, hostess gifts, bridesmaid gifts, or (gasp) holiday gifts!! You will be so glad you did!! (Don’t miss the personalized phone cases and my favorite earrings!!)

2. You know I love the UBeauty products!! This Travel Set is awesome if you want to try these products….or even better if you already use them. I traveled withOUT these in July + 1000% could tell a difference in my skin - it was drier and more wrinkly without these amazing products!! Use my code LUCKY20 if you are a first time customer for Ubeauty!

1. These cute suede woven flats from Nordstrom are still on SALE!! I got the olive color, and they are SOOOO comfortable!! A great buy for fall!!!!

   

   4. This $13 Walmart candle smells delightful! My friend Meredith had 2 of these lit in her house a few weeks ago….and it smelled so fresh and homey!! And it’s only $13! It smells like that Tyler Diva Detergent. I actually don’t love that smell on my clothes, but the scent is super fresh for your home! I sent my daughter with a few to her college house as well!!

1. This turquoise necklace keeps selling out!!! I got the 16” length and love love love it. I get so many compliments!! It makes an awesome bday gift, too!!

   

2. This Jcrew Dress is so perfect for Fall!! Love the color!!

3. My daughter & I wear these earrings almost EVERY DAY!! They are 25% off right now. Grab some gifts!!!

   

4. I got this scarf for Fall! I love it!! It is huge and will be so great for travel! It can be worn so many ways!! A great buy for fall!! You can see more of what I have gotten for fall here.

5. This turquoise bracelet is so good!! Would also make an amazing gift.

1. These jcrew pants are a great thing to wear now and into fall!! Lots of colors!!

   

2. My son has this onward reserve shirt and loves it! They just restocked it!! Great weight and look!!

3. My daughter got these shoes for Fall! Apparently this brand is all the rage!!

   

4. Last but not least, these new Mother Jeans are adorable! Look at that embroidery detail!! Great for Fall!!

Hope you’re having a wonderful week!! Remember you can always see my new finds HERE!! I add new things all day - every day!!

This week was a big shopping week! Hopefully you shopped my Prime Day Deals List!! I have over 250 deals saved here! The Prime Day Deals end TONIGHT at midnight!

Here is what I purchased this week! I LOVE this new vacuum cleaner!! And these whitnening strips are the best. I have tried others and always come back to good ole Crest!!

I also shared 20 things I use daily that are on prime deal! The mascara, hair volumizer, and the french clips have been the most popular!

In non-amazon news, I got 4 cute things from Anthropologie using my code!! Use LUCKY20 for 20% orders over $100!! Some brands are excluded. I bought this adorable sailboat cardigan (sized up M), these red Maeve shorts (size up), this fun feather cuff dress, this striped linen button down, and this black tassel necklace. I keep seeing Tuckernuck style things with black tassel necklaces, and it is so cute!

I also bought this new striped pattern in my favorite Frank & Eileen top! I love these tops for travel!! So easy and comfortable.

Ok that’s it for this week! I hope you have a fabulous weekend! If you can, please “heart” this post so that others will see it on substack!! Thanks for following along!! xoxo

Subscribe now

FOOD, BEAUTY, JEWELRY, + SHOES:

Loving these protein bars! The new almond butter flavor is A++++!!

This $17 necklace makes any outfit cuter! Also makes a great summer b-day gift!!

These hydration packets are NEXT LEVEL. Be sure to take them with food!! But they seriously will revive you!

My friend Meredith told me about these cute wedges! I have worn them SO much since I got them - still 50% off on Amazon!

I got this hairdryer as a PR gift but it is Amazing!! So light and very packable for summer trips!

I love ALL of these products, but their new Cleansing Balm is Awesome!!! Use code LUCKY20 for 20% off on first time orders.

I share quotes from this book all the time! I try to read it every morning. A great way to start the day! Also makes an amazing gift for friends going through hard times.

MUSIC: My friend Sarah introduced me to William Beckmann who apparently opened for George Strait. Love his music! Especially this song. I created this fun playlist for my friends 50th bday lunch…FYI there is a dance party in your future!!

SHOWS: Regetfully, I need to inform you that I am watching Love Island (on Peacock) with my 21 year old daughter. I love it! It is so very very trashy. Like very. I also have been rewatching season 1 of Shrill on Netflix because there is a new season out. It is really quirky and uncomfortable at some points - but I like it. Last show is Four Seasons on Netflix - written by Tina Fey. Also quirky (not the right word, but) at times, but overall I like it!

If you are wanting to browse new Amazon finds - go here!

If you want to browse new Non-Amazon finds - go here!

Thank you for reading my post! If you liked it, please give it a heart! That helps others discover me on Substack! Also, remember to leave a comment below with any of your favorites!! Thank you!!

Watching: I am reluctant to admit that I a) watched Off Campus and b) thoroughly enjoyed it. Heads up there is a major full frontal scene in the last episode. Multiple men - oh my! ha! I’m also still loving The Testaments on Hulu. So good! A random movie I watched this week (on regular tv) was Friends with Kids - entertaning and has a good cast (old movie - 2011).

Eating: Honestly haven’t cooked a ton this week, but a super easy go-to meal I am still loving is the Sesame Crunch Salad from Trader Joe’s (add rotisserie chicken or salmon). This is still one of my go to easy (and high protein) snacks. I just ordered these new bars per the rec of - you can use her code Megan45 for 45% off 2 boxes.

Listening: I am loving loving loving the songs by Stella Lefty. Also still loving this playlist from Tuckernuck last summer.

Reading: Just finished My Husband’s Wife. It was a very easy read. There is a twist at the end that sort of left me rolling my eyes? But I still liked it. Now I am reading The Lost Summers of Newport. It takes place over several decades, and I’m loving it so far. I lived in Newport, RI for a summer in college, and this brings me right back!!

Wearing: You can see lots of the outfits I wore this week HERE. Nothing fancy! I really love these oncept espadrille sneakers. They would be great to take on a walking trip!! I wear these earrings EVERYDAY. Always get loads of compliments! I also gifted them to my cousin for her birthday. A big hit!

17 BEST SELLERS on SHOPMY THIS WEEK:

17 BEST SELLERS on AMAZON THIS WEEK:

Have a great weekend!!

xoxo,

LUCKY

P.S. - If you have any show recs, book recs, recipes, etc - please comment with those!! I need some recs, too!!

1. My daughter took this skirt to Italy. She got white, and its perfect with lots of tops!

2. My son wears these flip flops almost every day. Someone asked me for a 19 year old bday gift idea, and he suggested these. A lot of you purchased these this week

   

3. These CRZ cropped sweatpants have been super popular! They would be amazing for travel!

4. These flip flops have also been super popular. I bought a pair, and they are SO comfortable. I have gotten so many DMs raving about them!

5. Birdie loves this herding ball! A follower sent me this rec! If you have an active dog, get one!

6. This monogrammed bag is adorable! I ordered one as a gift, and the quality is great!! These would make really cute bags for a girls trip, bridesmaids, or as hostess gifts!

7. A flattering swimsuit if you need one!

8. This is an easy dress for wedding showers, summer work events, or travel!

9. A kitchen essential! Or would also be a great little hostess gift with a cute bow!

9. Everyone loves this set! Great for summer errands or travel!

11. I wore this top this week with white jeans! A big hit! Cute and easy.

12. This monogrammed make up bag is adorable! The quality is insane for under $20! Great summer gift!

13. These green sunglasses continue to be a hot item every week! Love!

14. I have this top in so many colors. Looks like this Tuckernuck top! True to size.

15. My brother told me about these. So random! If you have a nose bleeder, get them!

    

16. This pool float is so cute & can be used to lay out if you don’t have a pool!

    

17. This striped dress has been a hot one. I have gotten so many DMs about how good this one is!!

18. Last but not least - this adorable gingham top!! So easy to throw on with jeans or shorts. Also would be very cute under a white blazer!

    

MEMORIAL DAY SALES WORTH SHOPPING

Madewell: 25% off dresses, shoes, and tees. Shop my favorites here.

Mother Jeans: Lots of jeans 40-50% off!

Loft: 50% off everything! Shop my favorites here.

Goop: 20% off tons of good beauty products + more!

Crate + Barrel: Up to 60% off! Great time to get kitchen stuff, etc!

Ruggable: Don’t miss these cute rugs - up to 25% off!

Boden: 30% off everything! Shop my favorites here.

Banana Republic: 30% off everything - some favorites saved here.

After the kids left for college, I knew I wanted to take an international trip, but I was nervous to go on my own. I have done some solo travel in the U.S. in the last few years (Palm Beach and Maine), so I felt somewhat confident to do it by myself but was unsure about going to Europe alone. My friend Brooke has done several solo Backroads trip, so I decided to try one! I went on a 3 week Europe trip after high school, and I LOVED Switzerland. I have always wanted to go back, and I also thought it would be a very safe place for solo travel. In July, I booked this trip. I thought about trying to coordinate with some friends, but most of my friends have younger kids so I decided to just GO!! I AM SO GLAD I DID!!!!

Here’s a quick breakdown of the itinerary:

Zurich to Kandersteg to Grindelwald to Engelberg to Lucerne to Zurich

Leaving Dallas:

I flew into Zurich through Frankfurt. If you do this - make sure you have at LEAST 2 hours to make your connection. The airport is HUGE!! If I was going again, I would try to fly through Paris. I had to sit in the airport for 7 hours because I missed my connection to Zurich. It was pretty terrible! LOL.

DAY ONE:

I got to Zurich around 6 pm only to realize my luggage was still in Frankfurt. Yay! No worries because I had a change of clothes and pajamas in my carry on bag. I checked into the Widder Hotel - great hotel and location - and headed out to explore. Zurich looks a lot like other european towns - winding streets and beautiful architecture. I sat down at a restaurant near the river and enjoyed an aperol spritz. I ate dinner next door to the hotel - Restaurant-Boucherie AuGust - and it was amazing!! I was super tired so I headed back to the hotel. I took a shower and said a prayer to the good LORD that my suitcase would arrive by the morning.

DAY TWO:

I woke up to a suitcase delivery. Hallelujah!! I got ready for the day and got in an uber to go to the Lindt Chocolate Factory. On the ferry there, I realized you need to get tickets a few weeks in advance. Typical of how I do things! ha! I went anyway, and it was great. I was actually kind of glad I didn’t get stuck on a 2 hour tour. I got some chocolate ice cream and took an uber back to my hotel. I shopped around the town, got dinner, and headed to bed early. Tomorrow I head to Kandersteg via train and meet up with my group on Day 4.

DAY THREE:

I woke up and headed the train station for Kandersteg. I was honestly most worried about navigating this part of the trip. The train station ended up being easy! The trick is getting the SBB mobile app. It tells you exactly where to go.

I arrived in Kandersteg around 4 pm and got to my hotel. My hotel for the night was nothing special but fine! I walked around and got dinner. I was SO tired so I decided to get in bed around 8! Right when I laid down, super loud music came on…a Rolling Stones cover band. I thought about getting up and going, but I was already in my pajamas! So I just had a concert in bed ha!

As I fell asleep that night, I got a little anxious about meeting up with a group of 10 strangers. What if they’re weird? LOL. I decided to let tomorrow worry about itself and fell fast asleep.

DAY FOUR:

I got up early to meet my group at 8:30 am! OMG! I dragged my suitcase about .5 away to the hotel where everyone was meeting. I wish I had just stayed there? Not sure why I didn’t. Anyhow…I walked up to the group…and honestly had a mini freakout like WHAT HAVE I DONE! But about 5 minutes later, I made fast friends with 2 other solo female travelers - Jamie and Lizzie!! Jamie is an investment baker in NYC, and Lizzie is a nurse in Nashville. Both are 38 and single! The other members of our group consisted of: a father/son duo from Atlanta, 2 couples friends that split time between Florida + Colorado, and a single guy named Raman from Virginia who was on his 20th backroads trip! Our Backroads leaders, George (from Utah) and Morona (from Croatia) were AWESOME!!

Today’s hike was GORGEOUS! We trekked above the gorgeous blue Lake Oeschinen which is surrounded by limestone cliffs. We saw lots of cows, and I can still hear the sound of their bells throughout the valley. It was magical! I had fun getting to know my group - lots of walking and talking today! The hike was actually fairly intense at one point but overall fun and beautiful. We got back to the hotel around 3 and had a group dinner at a chalet - Landgasthof Ruedibus at 6. By the end of Day 1, I felt like I knew everyone fairly well! Notes on the hotel - Waldhotel Doldenhorn is fine! Facility feels clean and new but rooms are a little tired. Overall a good day!!

DAY FIVE:

We woke up early today for breakfast and our first BIKE RIDE! I was so relieved to learn that my two single friends also opted for e-bikes! The rest of our group consisted of some pretty serious bikers and would never consider an e-bike!! The group met in front of the hotel, and our leaders showed us the route. It was very chilly out, and the 7 mile ride started with switchbacks on the highway. Um WHAT? Lizzie and I were both freaking out a little but we made it through it! We stopped around mile 4 for a pit stop. Backroads does a GREAT job of keeping you fed! There was a third leader who transported the bikes and served snacks and drinks. We continued on our bikes through small towns filled with chalets and flowers. The weather was exceptional! We went through numerous valleys and the views were picturesque! The landscape and feeling of Switzerland kind of reminds me of Napa. Everything is so gorgeous that it almost looks fake!! We rode past Lake Thun and ate lunch in Interlaken. We checked into the next hotel in Grinedelwald - Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof. This town is a very popular one - noticably more crowded than Kandersteg. We ate dinner at the hotel and enjoyed an alphorn lesson and Serenade.

DAY SIX:

More hiking today from Bussalp to Bachalpsee in Grindelwald Valley! More beauty! We ate lunch at the top of the mountain. I opted out the afternoon hike today and explored the town. Tonight we had dinner on our own so I ate with Lizzie, Jamie, Bob, and Andy (the father/son duo). It was a fun day and night! We stayed at Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof again this night. It is fine - gorgeous view. Most of these hotels have a super euro feel - sort of outdated in my opinion.

DAY SEVEN:

More biking today! We traveled some rural roads in Grindelwald Valley. I was super glad to be on my e-bike today because it was very hilly. I sped past the “serious bikers” and yelled See Ya Later Suckas! haah! They didn’t think it was as funny as I did.

We stopped for lunch in one of the small towns and did some shopping. I found an antique store and bought a vintage cow bell!! I also got a tiny painting of one of the swiss lakes. We checked into our last hotel Kempinski Palace Engelberg which was the best hotel by far! This is how Backroads sets it up. They always save the best hotel for last!

We had some down time this afternoon so Lizzie and I went to tour the local monastery. It was a beautiful place! We went to relax at the spa after that. It’s crazy this is our last night - it went by so fast! We had a lovely last dinner with the group. I have really enjoyed everyone!!

DAY EIGHT + NINE:

We met with the group at 10 am to say our goodbyes! I was surprised I teared up when I hugged my leaders! My friend told me this would happen, but I didn’t believe her! I am not a crier! ha! It was just so nice for someone to take care of everything and tell you were to be! They made it SO EASY and fun!!!

Lizzie & I decided to take the train to Lucerne and explore. We were both flying out of Zurich the next day. We ate lunch by the river and shopped. We hopped on the train back to Zurich and parted ways. I had an early dinner and went to sleep for an early flight!

I got back to Dallas around 3:00 pm and picked up Birdie! What an incredible experience. I highly recommend taking the trip! If you are solo, just GO! Stop thinking about it and just book it! You won’t regret it!

If you have any questions, comment below!! And if you can, please like this post! It helps others find me on Substack.

WHAT I WORE!

I didn’t get overly dressed up on this trip. I mainly wore leggings and tops for biking and hiking. The key was to dress in layers. At night, I wore jeans and sweaters. I wore this sweater the most! I took one black dress that I wore the last night. A few other things I brought and would pack again: these hiking shoes, this portable fan, this carryon bag, this hat with a chin strap, these socks, and I don’t travel without these!

The #1 one purchased item this week (on my shopmy) is this turquoise necklace from Baublebar. It is 20% off right now!!! The best summer accessory - or gift for May/June bdays!!

This monogrammed tote was also hot this week, and it’s 20% off right now!! My daughter and I have all 3 sizes (gifted from Baublebar). My daughter uses the smaller size as a purse. The medium and large size are great for work, errands, an overnight bag, or a carryon for travel.

The #3 pick this week on my Shopmy page is this Target Top. Would be so cute with white jeans - or get the matching skirt!!

The #4 pick was this Anthropologie Skirt. Use my code LUCKY20 for 20% off orders over $100!! There are a few brands excluded, so if the discount doesn’t show up in your cart - that is why. You can browse more of my Anthro favorites here.

I shared my daughter’s room decor last week. She has a blue buffalo check quilt on her bed from Target, but it is sold out. I linked this similar bedding, and it was popular!!

My daughter got these Target shorts last weekend, and they are SO cute!! She got blue and yellow.

So excited Zara is finally on Shopmy! We went into the store this week, and I got this fun blue and white top. These zara necklaces were also popular this week.

I love these JEANS! Like all Mother Jeans, they are a great quality and fit. I sized up. They stretch a little but not much!

I wore this dress this week, and it is so comfortable and cute! I paired it with this favorite necklace in turquoise. True to size for me - and length is perfect (I’m 5’3”)

I am SURE you have seen my ubeauty ad on instagram - sorry if it annoys you! But, I love this stuff!! My favorites are the resurfacing compound (like botox in a bottle) and the neck cream. It is the best neck cream I have used!! It won’t permanently remove those crinkles but it will help a LOT! This Discovery Set is a great way to try all of their products. The perfume smells amazing, too!!

I just got this Tuckernuck dress in the mail. It is SOOO CUTE!!!! You can wear it as a dress - or you can remove the cami under it and wear as a coverup. Perfection! I got small - its is true to size. PS: you can use code YOUROCK to get 20% off!!

This Anthropologie dress has been a top pick during the sale. Use LUCKY20 to get 20% off!!

I wore these Yellow Jeans this week with a white tee. Trust me, you will feel happier wearing bright jeans!! So fun for summer.

This Target Skirt is on sale for $20! Cute with a white tank and that turquoise necklace or zara necklaces linked previously in this post.

These Target Wide Leg jeans have been popular!!

Another popular Tuckernuck Dress!!

Ok that’s it for now! You can see ALL OF THESE here!! And if you would like to see all of my NEW FINDS go here. I am adding new stuff every day!!

Thank you for making it this far!! Please like or comment if you feel inclined!! That helps others see my posts. Have a great weekend!!

Here are some things I loved this month…..

SHOWS:

1. I loved Big Mistakes on Netflix. The first episode was kind of stressful to me (lots of YELLING) but stick with it. If you liked Schitt’s Creek, you will like this!

2. I am watching The Testaments now (sequel to Handmaids Tale - on Hulu) and it is SO GOOD!! Has the creepy factor but not as dark (yet) as Handmaids Tale. So well done!!!

BOOKS:

I listened to 2 books this month…planning to read more in May!!

3. The Road to Tender Hearts - the story and narrarator are kind of quirky but I enjoyed it - listened on a long drive & it kept me entertained

4. Culpability - this one made me think a lot about AI! Easy listen for a road trip.

FOOD:

5. I have been hyperfixated on this meal. I have made these before, but her potato cooking method elevates this one!!! Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes (This is a good food follow if you need one - @jenneatsgood

6. I am making this Summer Salad this week. Will do grilled chicken or salmon on the side - sounds so easy and good!! Also from a great follow

BEAUTY:

7. This mask is posted everywhere, but honestly it is THAT GOOD. You wear this mask overnight - and when you peel it off in the morning, your skin looks SO smooth and plump!

8. I took this aquaphor stick on my trips to cabo and argentina. It is so great to have in your carry on for dry lips, hands, and even face!! Not that original, but I finally got one and it is great!!

9. I brought this face moisturizer on my patagonia trip in lieu of my Ubeauty routine (to save space/suitcase weight). This Dew Glow Moisturizer is really good!!! I have been loving the body wash and the body lotion from this brand as well. Try it!

CLOTHES/SHOES/ACCESSORIES

10. I am literally OBSESSED with my new LOBSTER SLIDES. Not only are they adorable, they are also SO SO comfortable!!!

11. This Baublebar Fish Necklace is so perfect for summer! I wore this yesterday with item #12 the old navy dress. I love how you can add or remove the charms.

12. This Old Navy Dress is a must for summer! Especially for travel - it is so so easy to throw on - and also great layered with a jacket or sweater. I am 5’3” and I like the regular length. I got petite at first, and it got too short once washed and dried. I have this in 3 colors, and I also have the long version!! Get it!!

13. Last but not least - this striped Amazon Button Down you have seen me share a ton! But it’s just a great one!! Especially right now. So cute with white jeans. I size up in this one!

Also just wrapping up another round of the CART GAME! The leader right now is this comfortable bra (top of the list)! Click here to see the TOP TEN!

If you can, please LIKE this post by hearting it at the bottom of this post! That helps others see my posts on Substack. And if you would like to see more from me - please SUBSCRIBE (for free!!) so you will get notified of my posts (maybe 1x a week!). Thank YOU!!

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Okay, buckle up! Lots of detail that you probably don’t need but thought you might enjoy!

Wednesday, April 8th: Dallas to Buenos Aires

I left Dallas at 3 pm on an American Airlines flight that was connecting through Miami to Buenos Aires. I got on an earlier flight because I wanted a longer connection time in Miami. I only had 1 hour connection time with my original flight. No bueno. So, I grabbed the last spot on 3pm flight. Little did I know, the aggressive (read: super bitchy and rude) gate agent had only checked my bag to Miami - not all the way to BA. I won’t bore you with lots of in flight details, but I was in Economy - back of the bus - and lucked out with no one next to me in an aisle seat. Honestly, I do not like overnight flights for many reasons (no shoes eww, men snoring, lots of bathroom trips by strangers) but the main thing I HATE is the food service. I just hate how it stinks up the whole plane..and its not even good….anyway…let’s keep moving…and yes, I was traveling alone at this point! Meeting up with a group Sunday morning.

Thursday, April 9th: Landed in Buenos Aires

I landed around 10 am to discover my luggage did not arrive. Well hell! I panicked a little but luckily I had a pair of pajamas and a change of clothes in my carry on. And all my toiletries. I usually never check a bag….this is why! Anyhow, I took an Uber from the airport to the hotel - Jardin Escondido - the former home of Francis Ford Coppola. The lobby and rooms were so charming. It was beautiful! The Hotel is located in the Palermo neighborhood which is the largest and trendiest neighborhood in Buenos Aires, known for its designer stores, fun nightlife, and green space. I washed my face, brushed my teeth, and changed out of my travel outfit to head out for the day.

First mistake of the trip, I took a right out of the hotel…and should have taken a left. My right turn took me to sort of a crappy looking street. I thought - is this it? Huh? I should have gone left - which would have taken me into the trendy neighborhood with lots of boutiques and restaurants. Anyhow…I found a semi close/walkable lunch spot through ChatGPT - Casa Cavia. It was a beautiful spot with a gorgeous garden with tables. The hostess told me the outside (garden) was full - so I sat inside. I went outside later to discover several open tables. Oh well senora! I ate a delicious appetizer type dish and had a glass of Torrontes which is a wine specific to this region. I sat across from 4 Argentenian women who were very stylish and funny. I enjoyed it!

I headed back to the hotel to meet my tour guide for the afternoon. I cannot find the name of my 3 hour tour - which is lucky for you, reader, beacause it was not great! The lady could not have been nicer, but I didn’t learn a lot. We got on a bus and saw many sites which was a great way to see things and get an overview. I always try to sign up for a tour the first day so you can see the city - and also see what you want to go back to…

I came back to the hotel and rested - and then ventured out for dinner. I was traveling solo at this point, so I wanted to get to dinner and get home before dark. I read lots of things about this famous steakhouse Don Julio Parilla - so I decided to try it. Everyone said you needed a reservation, but since I was dining so early - I was able to get seated outside. They could not have been nicer. I ordered a steak bigger than my head, buttery mashed potatoes, and a salad to balance it all out. I ordered some delicious red wine and thoroughly enjoyed people watching as I ate. I ended up leaving dinner after dark, but I felt 100% safe walking back to my hotel. There is a great/fun energy in that neighborhood. I really wanted to stay and have another glass of wine but I was TIRED!!

Friday, April 10th: Buenos Aires

Are you tired of reading yet? Probably. But we have about 8 days to go! Today started later. I decided to let myself sleep a little but and left my room around 10:30 am. I came downstairs prepared to head out - but the nice concierge offered me breakfast. So, I sat down and ordered eggs, avocado toast, hot coffee, and some fresh banana bread because = VACATION. I met a girl from Austrailia who had been at a friend’s wedding in Chile. She was also traveling alone and was entertaining to talk with over breakfast!

Big plans for today - including the Botanical Gardens, San Telmo Market, and a Tango Show. I entered the Botanical Gardens into my apple map…2 miles later and I was standing instead of a convenience store? Directions aren’t my strong suit. I happened to ask the right Argentenian woman who spoke perfect english. She pointed ahead, and she said you have 2 miles to go. I am still not sure what happened with maps. I eventually found the gardens, but also visited an abandoned zoo on the way (the woman recommended this stop). They closed the BA Zoo in 2016 because they deemed it inhumane to keep caged animals. Fair! The buildings and grounds are so beautiful though - it is not called the Ecoparque. I finally found the Botanical Gardens. They were beautiful, but honestly was annoyed I wasted that much time to find them!

Next stop for the day: the San Telmo Market - where Chat told me there are Antiques! Yay! I took a 30 min uber ride to the market which is in another cool neighborhood. Narrower streets and felt more european. Apparently there were so many different people settling here back in the day - that all the architecture, etc is very mixed styles because of that. I’m sure there is a more eloquent way to say all of that but there you go. Thanks for still reading this long wordy recap ha!

San Telmo Market was amazing! I got a Frozen Torrotones and slowly browsed all the booths. There were actually only 4-5 antique booths out of 30…but it was still fun! I bought some antique napkin rings that are engraved with Poncho and Blackie. It was $10 for both! Exciting! I added those to my collection (actually my daughters but mine for now) when I got home. San Telmo is also a food market. I walked around a bunch but eventually landed on an empanada shop. It was delicious!!! My first of many this week. I got an uber back to my hotel to rest and shower for the Tango show tonight.

I was excited for this Tango show. Most of the shows in Buenos Aires are in much larger venues with lots of dancers. The Secret Tango Society is just 2 dancers and they dance right next to your table. The show started at 7:30 and lasted 1 hour. It was amazing! These dancers move so fast and bend their legs in ways that I never could. There was also an accordion player who was very funny and played great music. All in all, a great show and experience!! Would definitely recommend! (some of my friends on the trip (later) said they went to a tango show where the dancers had 30 costume changes - that sounded like fun, too!)

Saturday, April 11th: Buenos Aires to El Calafate

I went to the airport this morning at 9:00 to catch my next flight to El Calafate which is a 3 hour flight south of Buenos Aires. Way south! Let’s go! I was a little apprehensive because my flight was on Argentenian Airlines and was not sure what to expect. It was so easy and great! At the airport in BA, I sat next to 2 guys and noticed they had a Backroads tag on their backpack. I struck up a conversation with them, and yes they are part of my trip! They were super nice and funny…off to a great start. I was definitely looking around to see if anyone else had a tag. I saw some ladies talking super loudly….I hoped they were not in my group LOL.

I landed at El Calafate airport at 3:00 and got an uber to my hotel. The landscape was drastically different than Buenos Aires. Noticeably more remote and desert landscape. I checked into my hotel Posada Los Alamos. It was fine - not great and not terrible. It felt very European - sort of outdated but overall clean. I dropped off my stuff and headed to explore. I was surprised to see several stray dogs everywhere. They look well fed but they’re all wandering. Our guide later told us these dogs all have owners but they roam free. What happens in the winter? I do not know. Anyway…I stopped at a cute spot for some french fries and an aperol spritz. Delightful. I sat by a window and watched all the people (and dogs) walk by. I love exploring new places and making up stories about strangers!

I went to bed fairly early to prepare for meeting my group on the next day. I got a little anxious on my first backroads trip to meet the group. I was less anxious this time but always a wondering if you will jive with the group!

Sunday, April 12th: Meet up with my Backroads Group - El Calafate to El Chalten

I met my group in the lobby at 10:00 am! We had little time to talk before boarding the bus for a 1 hours drive to El Chatlen where we would begin our first hike. I sat next to Jim and Vanessa on the bus. They are a couple in their 60s (?) who are originally from Houston but now live in Breckenridge. They had been traveling in Chile for the week before they met the group. Very nice people!! Jim is very into photography and took some amazing pics on our trip.

Before the first hike, we stopped at Estancia La Estela (estancia means ranch) for a 2 mile walk (flat but SO windy) and lunch. We had a huge salad and some more delicious empanadas. I sat with Peter and Richard (the ones I met at the BA airport) who are married and live (near) Los Angeles. They have 4 kids, and they are very very smart and funny people. I already knew we were going to be fast friends.

We got back in the bus and headed to El Chalten (town) for a 5 mile hike and saw some spectacular views. It was so super windy - like 30-40 miles per hour winds. Patagonia is knows for high winds since the air is coming off the Pacific and Atlantic. You can’t avoid it! Got to talk to more group members on the hike…2 couple friends from Napa - Mary (owns a wine bottling co) + Erik (commerical construction in san fran) and Mary (family practice dr) + Dan (anesthesiologist). They have been neighbors for 20 years - how cool to have neighbors you travel with - right? I really liked the 4 of them - also in their 60s. Spoiler alert, I was the youngest person on this trip by 10+ years. At first I felt a little intimidated (?) but later realized it was a gift! I learned a ton and met lots of interesting people along the way!

We checked into our hotel Los Cerros del Chalten that afternoon and had some time to rest. The rooms were really nice and all had an incredible view!!! We had dinner near the hotel and got to know everyone even more. By the end of day one on Backroads trips, you really know everyone more than you might think!

Monday, April 13th: Rio Electrico - big hiking day

We met in the lobby at 7:15 am and got on the shuttle at 7:30 am to the trailhead in Rio Electrico. We walked through groves of gnarled cypress-like Lenga trees (or Patagonian Beech) to see beautiful views of the Peidras Blancas Glacier and its lagoon. We stopped for a picnic lunch halfway through. It was beautiful and so calm. But still SO WINDY! Like the windiest place I have ever been. Winds that day were 50mph. We had on several layers and would peel them off as needed. Temps were generally in the 35-45 range the whole time.

We were not able to take the final trail to the top becase = TOO WINDY - so we headed back to the hotel for rest and spa time. I headed to the jacuzzi and sauna - and also took a little nap! Lovely. We had dinner at the hotel this night and heard a presentation from Leo Gambella. Leo was one of our local guides (on the hike) and he has climbed several of the mountains in the area. He is also a photographer and showed us some crazy pictures hes taken while hanging off the side of the mountain! Very informative and fun evening. I sat with a group of 4 ladies (they came together) on the trip who are from Denver. They are in their low 70s and 2 of them kicked my butt on the hike! Very impressive. Several of them went to Stanford and one to Harvard Business School. No dummies here! Vanderbilt (where I went) felt like a junior college compared to these smarties. ha!

Tuesday, April 14th: Cerro Torre Hike and back to El Calafate

Today we started with a 5 mile hike to Mirador Cerro Torre and had the most delicious lunch of the trip afterwards at La Cervecercia. We had beer they brewed on site and the most amazing Roasted Double Stuffed Squash. It wasn’t called that but it was so good. We got the recipe, and I plan to attempt this in Dallas! Maybe in the Fall. After lunch, we took at 3.5 hour shuttle to El Calafate (where we started the first day). We stayed at the Los Alamos Posada again. My room on this night was worst than my first night at this hotel. Very hot and slightly stinky? Others had good rooms…so I think I just got the short straw. We had dinner on our own tonight which was nice! The group of denver ladies asked me join, but I decided to wander and eat when I wanted to….the group is fun but it is always good to recharge, ya know!

Wednesday, April 15th: Boat to Estancia Cristina

The trip really go exciting on this day! We got on a 2.5 hour boat ride across Lake Argentina. It was ROUGH!! One of the rockiest boat rides I have been on in a while. Everyone was popping dramaine! Crazy to think a lake could be so rough…but we saw lots of icebergs, etc! We arrived at the Estanica Cristina at 11:30 am - an incredible property only accesible by boat. We immediately left for a 4 mile hike into the woods. We ate another picnic lunch and thoroughly enjoyed it. 4 people in the group decided to keep hiking, but I headed back to get settled in my room. It was (once again) SO WINDY on our walk back.

Tonight we had dinner at the hotel. Everything at Estancia Cristina is done so well - the food, the decor, the staff, the wine, etc! Love it all!! Excited for tomorrow.

Thursday, April 16th: More hiking and pretty views

Today we left the main building at 8:30 am to take a jeep ride to the top of the mountain for the hike starting point. It was very cold and cloudy….and then…the rain. I was feeling very unsure about hiking on this day! Is this fun? ha! I stayed strong and it ended up being a great day. We hiked 10 miles through the Upsala Glacier + Fossil Canyon. The changes in topography and colors we saw were insane! It was NOT windy today which was a blessing!! The hike was not super steep but very rocky along the entire path. I almost slipped several times. Thankfully I did not! We got back to the hotel around 3:00 and had a free afternoon until dinner. I took a fabulous 2 hour nap and read my book! My hotel at Estancia Cristina also had a 5 star view. The feeling at this resort is very calm and peaceful. The geography is so vast! It is hard to think about settlers coming here and deciding to stay!! We had dinner at the restaurant that night. I laughed the hardest this night. I don’t remember exactly about what but a few of the guys have some awesome stories!!!! One guy got bit by his dad’s pet lion when he was 5….another guy draws faces on his fruit at home b/c his mom did growing up. Can’t make it up!

Friday, April 17th: Horseback Riding + to our next stop

Today we went horseback riding!! I was so excited. I grew up riding horses at camp - but other than that I really never get to do it!! We followed the gauchos to the stables. We all got on our horses - and it was very chilly out!! I had on 2 layers of pants, 3 -4 layers up top, and 2 hats! I know! We rode around the beautiful property (through rivers!!) for 1.5 hours and it was fun! We met for lunch afterwards at a really cool restaurant on the property. We had more empanadas and wine - and it was delicious!!

After lunch, we boarded the boat back to the other side (2.5 hours). It was a MUCH smoother ride this time. Thank GOD!!!! We headed to our next (and final) stop at EOLO resort. Another out of this world property! It feels like we are the only people in this country! It is quieter right now because it is the end of the season (its fall there - headed into winter now). But still! The Eolo is set on a ranch and it has sweeping views through every window. We had dinner tonight at the hotel, and the food was excellent. The wine was delicious, too!

Saturday, April 18th: Perito Moreno Glacier

We left the hotel at 8:15 am to get on the bus for Perito Moreno Glacier. It is not the biggest glacier in Patagonia, but it is the most accessible. We walked about 2 miles (Lots and LOTS of stairs) to make it to the Glacier. It was amazing! You could see little boat tours going by - tiny in comparison to the glacier! We also got to witness CALVING which is when part of the glaciar falls into the water. It is so loud! Apparently this tourist site is usually wall to wall people…but for us it was empty! Yay!

We headed back to the hotel for a Pica Pica Lunch (aka tapas). We had more empanadas and some delicious things! We had the rest of the afternoon free so I packed up some things, took a nap, and read my book!

Tonight we had a Farewell Happy Hour and Dinner at the hotel. The week went by so FAST! We had some wine and appetizers (more Torrontes white wine which is soo good), and our leaders (Dani and Eze - both from Argentina) surprised us with some tango dancers in the lobby! They were so good! We headed to the dining room for our last dinner. We got to go back and see where they were cooking the lamb over a campfire! Ultimately, the lamb was not that good but it was fun to see! ha!

Sunday, April 19th and Monday, April 20th

The travel back was long! I flew back from El Calafate to Buenos Aires (3 hours)…then had to switch airports (1 hour apart). I took off from BA at 9 pm…landed in Miami at 6:30 am….got delayed in Miami…and finally landed in Dallas around 2:30 pm. Despite the only 2 hour time difference, I was super tired!! So happy to be home!

Thoughts on Solo Travel // Backroads

Okay, here are my overall thoughts about traveling with Backroads // traveling solo….

If you are thinking about it, do it!! What are you afraid of? I was nervous to travel abroad by myself, so I started with Switzerland. It felt safe and easy to navigate. There will always be someone to help. Just don’t do stupid things like stay out late or take drinks from strangers. And lock up your stuff in the hotel. Be vigilant. It is just like being in the US - just be aware and use common sense!!

As for Backroads, I have loved the 2 trips I have done. My first trip - to Switzerland - had more singles in the group. That was fun for me…2 girls closer to my age. I have kept in touch with them and wanted to do this trip with 1 of them but it didn’t work out timing wise. She is going to Portugal in May by herself! FYI - you can call Backroads and ask of the group make up before you sign up. Honestly, even if you are the only single person traveling with a bunch of couples - it is FUN! Most people who sign up for this type of trip are friendly and wanting to make new friends. Again, if you are thinking about doing it. - DO IT! Dont wait! Life is short!! Do it!! Comment below with any further questions! Thank you for reading this far!! ha!!!!

WHAT I PACKED FOR ARGENTINA: THE LIST

Comment below with any other questions! Plan the Trip!!!!

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The most frequently asked question in my Instagram DMs is - where should I go in Maine? I have been to Maine 5 times in the last 3 years…so here is some info on the towns I have visited…hopefully this helps!!

I have always flown into Boston. Boston is best if you are going to Southern Maine - Kennebunkport or Ogunquit (or surrounding towns). This summer, we are going to fly into Portland which is more centrally located if you want to cover more of northern Maine. It may help to look at a Map of Maine to see the layout before reading further. Direct flights are more available in the summer months to Portland - at least from DFW. You can fly into Bar Harbor (connect through Boston) but if your flight gets cancelled (mine did) you will be stuck driving 5 hours north to Bar Harbor. It’s hard to fly 4 hours and then drive 5 hours in my opinion!!

If you fly into Boston:

Head North to Ogunquit and stay for 2-3 nights. I love staying at Dunes on the Waterfront. But there are lots of cute little hotels there. You could also stay in Kennebunkport (30 mins from Ogunquit). I stayed at The White Barn Inn in Kennebunkport with my daughter in July 2022 - and it was very nice. The 5 star restaurant in the hotel was overrated in my opinion but the pool was amazing and I still think about it! So relaxing. The rooms are adorable! I personally prefer staying in Ogunquit (cute town and lots to do) - and making a day trip to go over to Kennebunkport to eat (The Boathouse) and shop. It is very touristy in Kennebunkport (that’s why I like Ogunquit better). Make sure you stop in Seacraft Vintage in Kennebunkport. One of my favorite shops!!!

You could head north from Ogunquit to lots of small towns - I like Camden, Rockport, and Bath! My brother and SIL stayed in Camden last summer at Inn at Sunrise Point and they raved about it. Camden to Bar Harbor is about 2 hours. I like staying on Route 1 by the ocean. Bath is another quick but cute stop. Rockport is another great town - have lunch on the water at Nina June.

I have stayed at The Claremont in Southwest Harbor (30 min from downtown Bar Harbor) 3 times and love it. I stayed in the Summer House (building) twice and in the main building once. I prefer staying in the summer house because it feels more like staying in a house/cottage. A little quieter, too. This year we are also going to stay at The Asticou which is the oldest hotel in Bar Harbor, and they just did a full renovation in 2025. We stayed at The Salt Cottages in 2025 which is 5 minutes from downtown Bar Harbor. The cottages are SO CUTE and the pool is also great. It would be a great place for families. They do s’mores at night and the whole thing is so charming. I personally would not stay in downtown Bar Harbor as it is very touristy and crowded in the summer. But there is a nice hotel overlooking the water there - The Bar Harbor Inn. There is a really pretty trail that goes along the coastline - highly recommend walking it - called the Shore Path.

RESTAURANTS:

I am not great at recording names of restaurants…but there are a few spots I go back to each year.

Kennebunkport - Love The Boathouse. Sit on the patio if you can! The restaurant at The White Barn Inn is a little overrated in my opinion but very good! Hidden Pond is supposed to be great - you definitely need a reservation.

Ogunquit - I always start with a Lobster Roll at CREW. The Front Porch Piano Bar is a must for frose and piano sing alongs!!! Village Food Market has great sandwiches to take to the beach! MC Perkins Cove is good for dinner and overlooks the water. The Lobster Shack on the wharf is great! Brix & Brine is good for lunch. The Cliff House Maine also has a great restaurant but I have not been there yet. They also have an EXCELLENT spa at Cliff House Maine. Great breakfast or sandwiches for the beach - Bread & Roses Bakery. Ogunquit Lobster Pound (Next to Dunes) is a B at best but a great place to get Lobster - feels sort of Great Outdoors-ish (80’s movie). Barnacle Billy’s is another popular spot on the water. I haven’t been yet but people seem to love it!

Southwest Harbor (near Bar Harbor) - Get a lobster roll at Beal’s Lobster Pier (walkable from The Claremont), eat at Batson Fish Camp (at Claremont), Red Sky is a good dinner spot, and Little Notch Bakery is awesome for breakfast or get one of their pizzas. Yum!!

THINGS to DO:

Ogunquit - Do the Sunset Cruise on Finest Kind, go to the Ogunquit Art Museum, go to Footbridge Beach (walk at sunset - so great!)

Bar Harbor - definitely do some hikes in Acadia National Park - Bubbles Trail is super easy - or do the Jordan Pond Loop We did the e-bike tour of the Carriage Trails (built by Rockefeller) last year and it was great! Lots of people do sunrise at Cadillac Mountain but we haven’t done it yet! You need a reservation.

That is it for now!! If you haven’t gone to Maine yet, you should!! Awesome family trip, couple trip, girls trip, or SOLO trip!! I have gone solo twice (en route to pick up my son from camp up there) and it is just so so so great. Try it!! If you have any Maine recommendations you love - please add them to the comments on this post!