T R A V E L
Where to Go, What to Know — Travel Tips from Bobbi
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
I convinced Doug to do a little weekend Vegas getaway to see the Backstreet Boys (I’ve been looking forward to it for months). That 9-year age gap really came through when your wife drags you to Backstreet Boys and you don’t know any of their songs 😂 But he was such a good sport and he lived his best Vegas life for the rest of the weekend!! We had such a blast getting away for the weekend. From some of our favorite restaurants to some shopping and of course an afternoon or two at the pool, it was truly such a fun time!
WHERE TO STAY:
We stayed at The Palazzo this trip and were honestly so impressed. All the standard rooms are actually suites—super comfy, plenty of room, and just felt really nice to come back to after a long day of all things Vegas.
We’ve also stayed at The Wynn before and still love it—especially for the pool scene. If you’re planning a full pool day, I’d say Wynn takes the win. But Palazzo was really wonderful too, and I’d 100% stay again.
Major bonus: if you’re going to a concert at the Sphere, there’s a walkway bridge that connects straight from the hotel. No need to go outside, which is ideal when it's 106 degrees and you’re in heels. Little luxuries!
WHERE TO EAT + DRINK:
a few places we’ve been and loved (between this trip and last!)-
6666 Steakhouse at Wynn
Mizzumi Sushi at Wynn
Best Friend at MGM
CUT at palazzo
Catch at Aria
Lavo Unlimited Brunch at Palazzo
Bardot at Aria
Mayfair Supper Club at Bellagio (for dinner)
Parasail Bar at Wynn (for drinks)
Delilah (for drinks but also looked fun for dinner)
Liam’s Bubble Bar at Palazzo
Bouchon Bakery
WHAT WE DID:
Backstreet Boys and Eagles concert at the sphere- if you get a chance to see a show there it’s a bucket list experience!
Absinthe at Ceasars Palace Show
Blue Man Group Show
Shopped at Ceasars and Fashion Show Mall, Wynn and Venetian
OTHER SUGGESTIONS:
Yardbird at Venetian (for brunch)
Chandelier Bar at Cosmopolitan
Bouchon at Venetian (for brunch)
Yellowtail at Bellagio (for dinner)
Mon Ami Gabi (for dinner)
Chin Chin Chinese in NY NY
Sadelles at Bellagio (for brunch)
White Cheese Pizza at Secret Pizza Inside
Virgils at Linq Promenade
Show O at Bellagio
All in all, it was such a fun weekend 💫 wishing we could relive it already!!
ALABAMA’S BEACHES
We consider ourselves so lucky to live within an hour of Alabama’s beautiful beaches! This little slice of paradise has become such a fun getaway for our family year after year, and I am so excited to share some of our favorite local spots to make your trip to the Alabama Beaches truly unforgettable.
WHERE TO STAY:
On our most recent trip, we stayed at Phoenix VII but also any of the Phoenix condos are great and offer a really centralized location, right on the beach. In the past, we have stayed in Perdido Key at a friend’s gorgeous beach house, which you can check out here on VRBO.
If being on the bay is more your speed, Phoenix on the Bay is another great choice. I’d also recommend taking a look at Turquoise Place and The Caribe—both are beautiful and offer a resort feel.
And if you’re considering a hotel stay, the new Embassy Suites in Gulf Shores looks amazing. I’ve also heard great things about the Beach Village Complex in Orange Beach—definitely worth checking out!
It’s super easy to browse lodging options and book your stay through this website!
TIME ON THE WATER:
Last summer, we rented a boat from the Flora-Bama Marina and I think everyone would say it was a highlight of the trip! Another afternoon, we decided to rent some jet skis. The girls had a blast zipping around the water (and so did the adults, if we’re being honest). If you’re ever in the area, renting a boat or jet skis is such a fun way to see a different side of the coast — and definitely something we’ll be doing again.
LOCAL SHOPPING:
A must-stop when you’re in the area is The Wharf at Orange Beach—it has such a fun mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, and it’s one of those places you can easily spend a few hours walking around just to see it all. They’ve .recently added Portside at The Wharf, a newer section filled with the cutest boutiques that’s definitely worth checking out.
On our way into town, Cammie and I made a stop and did a little shopping ourselves—I grabbed a few things from Shades (always a go-to) and popped into the new Royal Standard store, which was so good. And if you have a pup, you have to stop by Good Dog Boutique for the sweetest finds for your furry friends!
WHERE TO EAT:
Jesse's on the Bay - Absolutely delicious dinners and bay views, don’t miss this gem!
Lartigue’s - The very best spot for fresh seafood + crawfish to-go.
Mythic Beach Banana Bar - Super cute newer dessert spot in Gulf Shores with frozen bananas, ice cream sandwiches, and frozen cheesecakes.
Shorefizz - Cam and I stopped in for my first dirty soda. So fun!
Foam Coffee - Trendy coffee shop in Gulf Shores. Loved my iced latte!
Flora-Bama Yacht Club – Great drinks, laid-back vibe, and right on the water.
Sunset Grille – The name says it all. Amazing view + seafood.
Voyagers – A little more upscale — perfect for a date night or special dinner.
The Gulf – Love the container-style restaurant and beachy setting.
Coastal – Casual, coastal, and super tasty.
Barefoot Coffee – The açaí bowls and coffee here? So good.
Topsail Steamer – We’ve grabbed one of their steam pots for a dinner at the house and I highly, highly recommend this! Easy, fun, and delicious.
Daisy’s Donuts - Came highly recommended to me!
OTHER LOCAL FAVORITES:
Here are a few more local favorites we’ve loved over the years:
Cosmo’s – Always a go-to for dinner.
Big Fish – Sushi and seafood done right.
Cobalt – Great for families and groups.
Tee Off at The Wharf – A fun stop for families or anyone up for a little friendly competition.
Villagio Grille – Another Wharf favorite for lunch or dinner.
Sound Wave – A newer rooftop restaurant at Embassy Suites in Gulf Shores with beautiful views—definitely one to check out.
Shipp’s Dockside – You can choose the lower deck for more casual dining or head upstairs for a slightly more elevated experience.
Picnic Beach – A great, easy lunch spot in Gulf Shores with a fun, casual vibe. Food is really great!!
Lulu’s – A classic, especially with kids—always a fun atmosphere.
Doc’s Seafood – A local staple for simple, fresh seafood. Super laid back!
If you’re 21+, you have to experience the iconic Flora-Bama Lounge at night for live music—it’s such a fun, one-of-a-kind spot.
And if you’re traveling with kids, there’s so much to do beyond the beach! The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is amazing, and spots like The Track and Waterville are always a hit. There’s also no shortage of putt-putt, arcades, and family-friendly activities.
For even more to do, head over to OWA in Foley for an amusement park + water park combo, and don’t miss the Tanger Outlets if you’re in the mood for a little shopping!
Living so close to the Alabama coast is something we never take for granted—it truly feels like our own little slice of paradise. Whether it’s a full trip or just a quick getaway, we always find ourselves coming back to these beaches for the slower pace, the salty air, and the sweet family memories made along the way. It’s become such a special place for our family, and we’re so grateful to have it right in our backyard.
If you’re ever considering a trip to the Alabama Beaches, it’s one of those places that never disappoints—easy, beautiful, and always exactly what you need.
Until next time! 💙
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Talk about a whirlwind of a 24 hours we had in Charleston! While I definitely recommend staying longer if you can (there’s just so much to explore), we packed in as much fun as possible during our quick visit—and loved every minute of it.
We stayed at Hotel Bennett, which was beautiful and in such a perfect location—just steps from King Street. I’ve also stayed at The Dewberry before and loved it just as much. Both hotels are stylish, comfortable, and make a great home base for exploring the city. The Ryder looked super cute too—definitely on my list for a future trip!
We kicked things off with lunch at Leon’s—always a favorite. I’ve also eaten at 167 Raw, and honestly, both are musts if you’re visiting Charleston. So, so good.
After lunch, we spent the afternoon shopping along King Street. It’s such a fun area to just pop in and out of shops—there’s a great mix of boutiques, local gems, and national favorites. We even hopped in a pedi cab, which was a fun adventure.
Back at the hotel, we stopped by Camellias Champagne Bar for a quick drink before dinner. It’s all things pink and absolutely adorable. If you’re around on the weekend, they offer an afternoon tea that looks amazing—just be sure to make a reservation.
For dinner, we went to High Cotton, which is owned by Halls Chophouse. I’ve eaten at both, and you really can’t go wrong—such a great Southern dining experience.
One of the highlights of the trip was a charm necklace-making session at Holst + Lee. It’s a locally owned shop filled with personality, and the experience was such a fun (and meaningful) way to bring home a piece of our trip.
Before heading out, we grabbed brunch at Miller’s All Day. It came highly recommended, and while it was good, I wasn’t completely blown away—though the atmosphere was fun and the menu had plenty of options, I’d probably try somewhere different next time.
All in all, our little 24-hour adventure in Charleston was packed, memorable, and full of charm. I already can’t wait to go back and spend a bit more time soaking in everything this beautiful city has to offer!
CHARLESTON FOLLOWER RECOMMENDATIONS:
Dining/Drinks:
Sorelle
82Queen
Seahorse Bar
Darling Oyster Bar
Lewis BBQ
Hank’s Seafood
Carmellas
La Cave
Post House Inn (in Mt. Pleasant)
Halls Gospel Brunch on Sunday
Melfi’s
Citrus Club
Poogans Porch
SNOB
Magnolia for Brunch
The Ordinary (have eaten here before and was great)
Playa Bowls
Shopping:
Open Air Market
Shop on King St.
Mulberry and King
Nette
Candlefish Candle Company
Madison Matthews Boutique
Charleston Place
Marsh and Magnolia Hat store
The Record Stop
WHAT TO WEAR:
SEA ISLAND, GEORGIA
Wow—what an unforgettable experience we had at Sea Island! It was our first time staying at The Cloister, and it completely exceeded our expectations. The entire trip was amazing, and the hospitality was top-notch—everyone we met was so warm and welcoming.
I joined Doug on a work conference, and even though we were only there for three nights, we made the most of every moment. That said, knowing what I know now, I’d definitely recommend staying at least five nights to truly soak it all in.
We stayed in the Beach Club suites, which I highly recommend for families with kids. They offer the easiest and most convenient access to the pools and beach—perfect for a family getaway. While The Lodge is absolutely stunning and worth visiting, it’s about 15 minutes from the main Cloister and Beach Club, so I’d personally prefer to stay closer to the heart of the action.
The main building is stunning, with beautiful architecture, charming shops, and plenty of things to explore. Getting around the property is easy too—shuttles and golf carts are available to take you wherever you need to go.
All in all, Sea Island was truly a dream, and we can't wait to return!
WHERE TO EAT:
A few weeks ago, I asked for your top Sea Island Recommendations, and you all did not disappoint! Here’s a quick rundown of where we ate:
Southern Soul BBQ- a MUST visit! Everything was 10/10.
Colt & Alison (high-end, reserve early!)- at the Lodge, about 10 min from the main CloisterDoug and I did this and it was a fun experience!
The Oak Room at the Lodge - we did lunch and it was amazing and a great view and vibe!
Halyards- great food, but atmosphere could be better.
Southern Tide at the Beach Club- had lunch here and it was very good! Great view of the pool and beach!
We absolutely loved the restaurants you recommended and only wish we had more time to try all the others that were suggested! Here are some of the top spots in the area that came highly recommended:
Georgia Sea Grill- had a friend eat here and said it was very good!
Tramici
Delaney’s
The Porch- had friends that tried and said it was good!
Dorothy’s + Woodside
Echo at King and Prince
Bennie’s Red Barn
La Plancha (Mexican)
Fiddlers
Zuzu’s
Tavola at the Cloister- had friends do this one night and said it was great!
Crab Trap
Wake Up Coffee Co
Palm Coast Coffee
Dulce Dough (highly recommended!)
Sal’s Pizza
The Half Shell
Crabdaddy’s
THINGS TO DO:
Spa at the Cloister
Adult Pool at the Cloister (a favorite spot while we were there!)
Sunset Bagpiper at the Lodge
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Rent Bikes + Poolside Drinks at the Cloister
Falconry at Rainbow Island
The Labyrinth Walk
Solarium Tea & Cookies @ Cloister (4pm daily) They also have complimentary coffee and scones in the same area every morning.
Sunset Riverboat Cruise
Putting Course + Transfusion Drink at the Lodge
SHOPS YOU CAN’T MISS:
Two Friends Boutique
Cabana
Birdie’s
Tibi Outlet
Viola’s Market
WHAT TO WEAR:
THE MASTERS - AUGUSTA, GA
Wow — what an unforgettable experience! We’ve been incredibly lucky to attend The Masters three times now, and it truly never gets old. It’s one of those iconic events that lives up to every bit of the hype!
TICKETS:
Each time, we’ve scored practice round tickets through the official Masters ticket lottery — yes, it really works! You can enter the drawing each year directly on their website. It’s a bit of a long shot, but so worth it if you win! If you’re interested in trying to get tickets for 2026, be sure to create an account as applications open on June 1st.
WHERE TO STAY:
The first 2 years we stayed closer to Augusta about an hour away, and even then hotels are still pricey! This time though we stayed in Atlanta and opted for a fun dinner and a hotel stay at the Four Seasons and rented a sprinter bus to take us to and from Augusta all in a days trip! We left ATL around 5:30 AM and made it just in time for the gates to open at 8:00 AM. After an incredible day on the course, the van dropped us straight at the airport for our flight home — it was a long day, but totally worth it.
ATL Food Faves:
Some of our favorites in Atlanta include Chops, The Optimist, and most recently, Marcel, which was a new (and delicious) find!
THE EXPERIENCE:
Once you’re inside The Masters, get ready to disconnect — phones aren’t allowed, so either leave yours in the car or check it at the gate. If you’re attending a practice round, definitely bring a digital camera!
Your first stop? Head straight to Founders Circle for a complimentary commemorative photo taken by The Masters’ photographers. Then make a beeline to the merch shop — it’s basically Disney World for golf fans. (Warning: it’s easy to drop $1,000 without even realizing it 😅). The infamous garden gnomes are the hot item every year — and honestly, we still don’t fully get the hype, haha!
After shopping, you can take your purchases back to the car (you're allowed one re-entry). Then spend time exploring the entire course — it’s truly stunning. Don’t miss Amen Corner and Hole 16, where players famously skip balls across the pond!
And yes, the concessions are legendary. Delicious, affordable, and classic. Try one of everything — seriously.
The tradition, the style, the atmosphere — it’s all magic. If you ever get the chance to go, don’t think twice. The Masters is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of special.
WHAT TO WEAR:
30A - SANTA ROSA BEACH, FL
We love heading down to 30A — it’s just a quick 2.5-hour drive for us, which makes it the perfect getaway! We recently spent a few days there for spring break (second year in a row!) and had the best time. This beautiful stretch of Florida’s Gulf Coast is dotted with charming little beach towns along scenic Highway 30A, each with its own unique vibe and plenty to explore.
WHERE TO STAY:
We've been lucky enough to stay in quite a few spots along 30A — WaterColor, WaterSound, Rosemary, Seacrest, and Inlet Beach — and honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of them! Each spot has its own charm, and we’d absolutely recommend them all. Seacrest and Watersound are great middle-ground options — super convenient for exploring both ends of 30A. Whether you’re biking, walking, or cruising in a golf cart, it’s easy to get around from almost anywhere between WaterColor and Inlet Beach.
Just a heads-up: Seaside can get pretty crowded in the summer months, but it's still a must-see and perfect for shopping or grabbing a bite to eat.
OUR MOST RECENT STAY:
For spring break, we stayed at The Prominence on 30A and really enjoyed it! The only downside is the beach access — it’s about a 5-minute golf cart ride away (we used Deer Lake State Park), but honestly, it wasn’t a big deal.
We booked through Panhandle Getaways and had a great experience. They made everything super easy with a text option for check-in, questions, and more.
Prominence is located in Watersound, directly across from The Hub — a vibrant food and entertainment venue with restaurants, shops, an arcade, and family-friendly movies or live music most nights. So fun and super walkable!
Our townhome came with bikes and a golf cart, which, in our opinion, is a must for getting around 30A comfortably.
FAVORITE SPOTS TO EAT:
Here are our tried-and-true go-tos — a mix of local gems and iconic favorites:
Gallion’s
Restaurant Paradis
Old Florida Fish House
Bud & Alley’s
Great Southern Café
Fonville Press
The Citizen
The Hub
AJ’s
Vue on 30A
There are truly so many great dining options, whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, elevated Southern fare, or a casual family dinner after a beach day.
MUST-DO SHOPPING:
Be sure to explore the little boutiques in each town — every one has its own personality and local flair. And you have to grab a classic Seaside sweatshirt from the original Seaside store. Seaside, Watercolor and Rosemary all have cute “downtown” areas with lots of cute boutiques.
WHAT TO WEAR:
Café 30A
Surfing Deer
Pescado
La Crema
The Perfect Pig
Fish Out of Water
Amici 30A
Goatfeathers
Donut Hole
Ambrosia 30A
FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA
If you’re ever nearby, you’re in for a treat — this area is truly so special! Fairhope is the sweetest little town on the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, full of Southern charm, walkable streets, and so many great local spots to explore. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway, whether you’re planning a couples trip or bringing the whole family. There’s a beautiful downtown filled with boutiques and restaurants, a stunning bayfront pier for sunset strolls, and plenty of small-town charm that makes you feel instantly at home.
WHERE TO STAY:
I‘d recommend renting an Airbnb or VRBO to get that cozy, local feel. If you're wanting to stay downtown , the Hampton Inn Downtown Fairhope is a solid option, as is the Fairhope Inn. Want to splurge? Stay at the iconic Grand Hotel in Point Clear — it’s about 15 minutes from downtown and it’s full of historic charm and stunning amenities.
Tip: Rent a golf cart if you can — it’s such a fun way to explore downtown!
FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT:
Casual Favorites & Local Gems:
Locals – Hands down, the best burger in Fairhope (in our opinion!). Casual, cozy, and tucked in a cute alley — sit outside if the weather’s nice.
Master Joe’s or Wok by the Bay – Great sushi and hibachi options. No reservations, but you can add your name to the list.
Panini Pete’s –A Fairhope classic located in the French Quarter courtyard. Great for breakfast or lunch — don’t miss the beignets!
Sunset Pointe – Located at Fly Creek Marina, this spot has fresh seafood, great drinks, and (as the name suggests) an amazing sunset view over the water.
Ben’s BBQ - A classic BBQ joint and just as good as an ole home cooked meal. Just north of the downtown area!
Date Night or Elevated Dining:
Hope Farm – Not downtown, but so worth the short drive. Gorgeous setting, delicious food, and great cocktails. Make a reservation!
Little Bird - Always such a great vibe and our meal is always a 10/10. Make a reservation! Fun spot for an elevated lunch, too.
Pearl – Quaint seafood spot in downtown Fairhope. They don’t take reservations, but it’s worth the wait.
The Wash House - Fabulous food and service! Really close to the Grand Hotel if you’re staying there. Be sure to make a reservation!!
Tamara’s – A long-time favorite in downtown Fairhope, perfect for a cozy dinner with great service and a classic Southern-inspired menu.
Kingfisher - Delicious Louisiana style seafood! A fun, laid-back coastal feel for a more casual dinner spot.
Drinks & Dessert:
Provision & Red or White – Cute downtown wine bars, great for a glass and a light bite.
Monkey Bar – Fun outdoor spot for drinks and casual hangs.
Bucky’s Lounge – Located at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, this is the spot to catch a gorgeous sunset + fun cocktail!
Gene’s Beans – A local classic for ice cream — try the Fairhope Float!
Page & Palette – A cozy bookstore with a great coffee shop inside.
Fairhope Chocolate – Because no trip is complete without something sweet!
WHERE TO SHOP:
Fairhope has the best local shopping — from boutiques and baby clothes to art, home decor, and jewelry, there’s something for everyone.
Boutiques & Fashion:
Harvest Jewels
Private Gallery
Sway
Christina Lynn’s
Monkee’s of Fairhope
Threaded Oyster
FG/FH Clothier
7 South
Sadie’s
Kids & Baby:
Tiny Towne
Gigi & Jay’s
Fantasy Island Toys
Men’s
Riverbend
The Avenue
Southern Tide
Chatsworth
Gifts, Home, & More:
The Fairhope Store
Objects
Living Well
Wildflowers (just outside of downtown)
Happy Olive
Interwoven
Five Gold Monkeys
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
We took a weekend trip to Nashville for Doug’s birthday and had the best time! The city totally lives up to the hype — live music everywhere, amazing food, fun neighborhoods to explore, and such a good vibe. Here’s everything we did and loved — plus a bunch of great recs if you’re planning your own Music City weekend! We packed a lot into the weekend, but it still felt like the perfect mix of fun and chill. Already dreaming about our next trip back — Nashville definitely stole a little piece of our hearts!
WHERE TO STAY:
We stayed at The Joseph and LOVED it. It’s in a perfect location — close enough to walk to Broadway, but just far enough to feel like a peaceful escape when you’re done with the crowds. The rooms were gorgeous, and they have a super cool lobby bar and a hidden speakeasy-style bar that felt like such a fun secret.
THINGS TO DO:
Tour the Ryman Auditorium: It’s a Nashville classic and such a cool experience — whether you take a tour or catch a show, definitely add it to your list.
Country Music Hall of Fame: Huge, well-done, and full of iconic country music history — even if you’re not a mega-fan, you’ll appreciate the artistry and memorabilia.
Hop around Broadway: Of course, we had to do the honky tonk crawl! It’s loud, a little chaotic, and so much fun. A few standouts:
– 12/30 Club – a little swankier, live music, and good vibes
– Jelly Roll’s Bar – they make a legit burger
– Tootsie’s, The Stage, and Jason Aldean’s for the full honky tonk experience
Walk the Pedestrian Bridge: A great way to take in views of the skyline and the river — especially pretty around golden hour!
Check out Assembly Food Hall: Right off Broadway and worth a stop — tons of great food stalls, drinks, and a few cute shops. Super casual, easy lunch spot if your group wants different things.
Explore 12South: We loved walking this area — it’s full of boutiques, murals, and good food. Bartaco is great for a casual lunch, and Five Daughters Bakery is a must if you’re craving something sweet.
If there's a game in town...
– Predators game at Bridgestone Arena — loud, energetic, and such a blast!
– Titans game at Nissan Stadium — great atmosphere, and you can walk from downtown.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK:
Dinner Spots (perfect for birthdays, date nights, or group dinners):
– Bourbon Steak (JW Marriott) – Amazing steaks, stunning city views, and the best truffle fries
– Kayne Prime – Another steakhouse, upscale but relaxed
– Husk – Southern classics with a refined twist, set in a charming historic house
– City House (Germantown) – Cozy and creative, Italian meets Southern
– Rolf and Daughters (Germantown) – Inventive pasta and small plates, so good
– Noko – Sleek and modern with wood-fired Asian dishes
– Yolan – Upscale Italian dining at The Joseph
– Virago – Trendy spot for sushi and cocktails
– Barcelona Wine Bar (Edgehill) – Tapas and wine, great for sharing
– L.A. Jackson – Rooftop restaurant/bar with great food and fun energy
Lunch / Casual Bites:
– Martin’s BBQ – Can’t visit Nashville without some BBQ
– Pharmacy Burger – Classic burgers in East Nashville
– Hampton Social – Bright and beachy vibes, perfect for a mid-day bite
Drinks / Pre-Dinner Spots:
– The W Hotel Rooftop – Trendy and great city views
– Four Seasons Rooftop Bar – Classy and ideal for golden hour drinks
– The Joseph Speakeasy – Hidden and cozy, great cocktails
– The Patterson House – Speakeasy-style cocktail bar with moody vibes
WHAT TO WEAR:
