My therapist challenged me to do a solo getaway in 2019 and I chose Washington D.C. as a staycation, this time solo. From Richmond, Virginia, it’s only about a two hour drive so it’s very possible to fit many activities into one short trip; however, my goal was to relax, so I’ll share the few things I did.

The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is a legendary road trip. That would explain why it makes the list of most traveled road trips every year. Stretching along the stunning coastline of California, this destination is truly something like a dream. Unmatched landscapes, hidden location gems, and carefree vibes are the perfect vacation package for adventure and spontaneity.

I’ve been wanting to take a vacation to a Getaway House since I first saw the ad on Instagram a couple years ago. I loved how the cabins looked and how it just seemed like the perfect opportunity to be off the grid. I’ve been describing it as the perfect median between camping and glamping (“glam camping”) because you get the experience of being in nature, cooking outdoors, hiking, etc. but the comfort of returning to a home with running water, shower, kitchen and beds.

In Charleston, you’ll want to try southern comfort foods, especially those that are native to the area. Rice is a major part of the culture and history of Charleston so you’ll see it on nearly every menu; you’ll also come across many fundamentally southern seafood dishes like shrimp and grits or she crab soup.

The Pacific Coast Highway in California is one of the nation's most scenic drives. There is no shortage of things to do from romantic Santa Barbara to expansive wine country in Paso Robles to vista points like Piedras Blancas all along the drive and breathtaking views on Pebble Beach in Monterey, you won't regret hopping in your car and gulping in the fresh air and surrealism of California.

The Pacific Coast Highway is 656 miles long so surely there are several restaurants off of this route that are delicious. The eight we stopped at hit just right from breakfast to dinner to some of the best ice cream you’ve ever had. Check it out.

In my short trip, I took a river architecture tour, tried at least a couple Chicago food staples like Harold’s Chicken Shack and Garrett Popcorn, and even attended opening night of Wicked on Broadway. Keep reading to take a dive into my trip.

When I decided that travel was going to be my biggest goal of life as a single woman, New Orleans topped my list of places in the United States. The thought that I could be caught by the surprise of live music on any street at any time or the idea that I could possibly have the best food dish I will ever have were good enough reasons to make a trip to NOLA happen.

Let’s talk about what is obviously the most important part of visiting New Orleans- the grub. Aside from music, the city is known for the endless options of amazing flavor and variety. Most of the food is creole or cajun inspired, which is a blend of many different cultures so when you eat in New Orleans, you’re literally getting a taste of history.

Yours Truly DC is modern in design, eclectic in decor, and soulful in feel. Not only can you dine downstairs at Mercy Me Restaurant, there’s space to work remotely in the lounge, a bar to grab a drink, and even a record shop, which is certainly nothing I’ve ever seen before in a hotel.