Southern California

Embarking on a day trip to Catalina Island from San Pedro is an exciting adventure that promises breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and unforgettable memories. Just a short ferry ride away from the mainland, this picturesque island offers a myriad of attractions and experiences for all types of travelers.

If you got the song reference above, you already know my big news.

There are a lot of things I love about Southern California — access to gorgeous beaches, great shopping, the most amazing farmer’s markets and fresh produce. But the thing I’m reminded of most often is how gorgeous the flora is here. I officially love Southern California flowers.

If you’ve followed my travels on Instagram this year, you know I’ve spent quite a bit of time in southern California. Although I actually lived there for a few years and visit regularly, this was my first trip to the Getty. It’s one of those places I’d heard about, but I never took the time to drive up there. I had a free day on my most recent trip to LA, so I decided it was time. I’m so glad I made the decision to spend the day at the Getty. It was so worth it.

I can’t believe I’ve already been back in southern California for two months. In some ways, it feels like just yesterday that we packed up and left Boston, and in other ways, it feels like we never left the first time (in 2014). Although we lived in California before, Orange County is a lot different than LA. For the longest time, I had a lot of misconceptions about LA.

A year ago, when I first started thinking about moving back to southern California, LA wasn’t really high on my list. I always thought I’d end up in San Diego. Then I started spending time in LA and quickly realized just how much it has to offer. Although I still adore San Diego, for me, LA is more. A recent day trip to explore the Venice Canals and Abbot Kinney confirmed my love for my new home.

Recently, my sister and nephew came to visit us in LA. Since I haven’t been here that long, I wasn’t so sure about playing the role of tour guide. I knew a few places around the LA area that I wanted to take them, but several of the places they wanted to visit, I hadn’t been myself. It’s hard to know what’s worth the time if you haven’t been. What I did learn during our tour of LA, is that there are at least 3 things in Los Angeles that you do not need to see. (I’m working on a follow-up story). But there are also so many amazing things you must see. Here are a few of our highlights.

I’ve lived in Southern California for nearly 5 years, on and off. I’ve traveled up and down the coast from San Diego to Santa Barbara. Honestly, I thought I had been to all of the beaches in LA, San Diego, and Orange County. But last week, I found my new favorite beach. One of the major reasons I couldn’t wait to move back to California is because of the beaches. Given that I have experienced a lot of what Orange County has to offer, I thought I’d share the best Orange County beaches.

If there is one thing I miss because of COVID, besides seeing my family, it is traveling. I had many trips planned for this past spring and summer that I canceled. Although travel is allowed, I’m trying to limit my travel because I think it is the best decision for public health and my family’s health. I have done a few local/regional trips around Southern California, however.

Are you planning a family vacation to Anaheim, California, and looking for a luxurious stay? Look no further than the JW Marriott Anaheim Resort. They invited us to spend the weekend at their lovely resort, so we were excited to check it out. Here are six reasons why the JW Marriott Anaheim Hotel is an excellent choice for families.

Searching for options for Ice Skating Los Angeles? I’ve got you covered. If you live in LA or Orange County areas, here are 9 places to go skating this holiday season. By the way, if you’re looking for snow near LA, click here.