In the District

Old Town Alexandria, D.C. suburb

I lived in Alexandria, VA, a suburb just outside of Washington D.C. for almost six years. I have not thought to write on living in the District because my attachment to it as a city was biased by my attachment to it as a home. When I lived here previously, it was excruciating. The traffic, the east coast personality disorders, and the excessively humid weather, all, over-shadowed anything great about this city (as a resident).
It was easy to overlook the amazing food which represents every continent. The number of languages overheard on the bus, or at the airport. D.C. is amazing. Let's not even get started on the museums and history. The architecture and urban development, which outline city streets, and make no sense to city planners or inhabitants in this day and age, are amazing when understood. The conflict of the structure and culture of this city is actually what makes it so amazing.

Since I have been back, I notice all the great things visitors think of when they come to the area. Washington D.C. and it's outlying suburbs reveal themselves as a mecca of international influence and sublime intellect.

Always on the "must-see"list for visitors

The monuments and museums are clearly at the top of the list to engage any world traveler. The White house and the Capital building are probably two of the most visited political structures in the downtown area. These symbols of modern democracy summon visitors from all over the world. Our international neighbors need to visually assess the power of this young nation, along with the marks of our great leaders, such as the Lincoln Memorial, and other famous monuments which have been placed strategically in the area of the Presidential grounds. These monuments, capital buildings and sculptures all represent the history and pride of the entire country of the United States.
There has also, always been rumor of Illuminati representation by the placement of some monuments and the symbolism weaved within their stones. If you stand at the Lincoln Memorial, the distance between the Jefferson Memorial and the National Mall form a perfect triangle. There are websites dedicated to the secret symbols of the Memorials. Unknown to me if this represents anything else other than perfect concepts of space, time and architecture. Still, interesting.

The university areas offer a vibrant energy driven city that keeps it youthful amidst the ever changing political climate. Generally represented by a stiff, American standard, having the young influx of ideas and energy truly keeps the city potent.

Howard University, the most prestigious(and popular) HBCU in the country is located right in the heart of the District. George Washington, American and Georgetown are also located in the center of D.C. and the level of international appeal for all these universities encourages the diverse population which makes up the greater mix of people and representation of all.

Many tourists visit D.C. to see the cherry blossoms (seasonally), which were a gift from the Japanese, after a war torn era, and still represent healing between two nations. Ideally, the blooms of a mending friendship. The District is underrated in the beauty it exudes and the many other features the city has to offer. The food, the attractions, the art and music are simply undervalued.

I got to experience the Spy Museum with my son who had no idea a museum could be so fun. My daughter and I got to view a special Rock and Roll - History of Music exhibit at the National Portrait Museum. A really special experience in itself, but also a reminder of other National Portrait Museum visits all over the world. The international appeal of the District is engaging and sophisticated.

The famous sculpture of the distressed giant, "The Awakening," which seems to rise from the underworld, I originally experienced at Hains Point. It has since been moved to National Harbor between the D.C. and Baltimore area. Yet, these types of art experiences have been crucial in introducing me to all aspects of art and history here in the D.C. area. I have so many memories stemming from different trips here. D.C. has become one of my most respected cities of the States even though my preference is living anywhere else.

My first fancy meal was here with a well known businessman, in the 80's.
One of my first live music shows was here in the 90's.
One of my first acting jobs - D.C.
I gave a special gift of NBA basketball tickets to a special guy and got to experience one of my first professional sporting events right in the center of China Town.
Breweries, speakeasy's, fantastic culinary delights - you can literally find everything and anything you want in this intimate, self designed, and beautifully diverse city.


This last trip to the D.C. area, I needed to see the Spite House.

The Spite House, Queen St. Alexandria

This house, originally built to keep trespassers and vagrants out of the owner's alley...now famous for the ingenuity and quaintness of it all. In all of our human pettiness, comes some semblance of creativity. Necessity is indeed the mother of invention. The house has been designated a National Historic Building by the Historic Alexandria Foundation. On my visit, there were other visitors, cruising by, taking photos, but the neighborhood was not amassed with tourists and sight-seers looking for something interesting. It is indeed a quaint remnant of history, still standing in contemporary society.
 
In the same area, I visited an old well known eatery run by a well known local woman chef, Jamie Leeds. Hank's Oyster Bar, named after her father, represents the industriousness and innovation of locals who want to build where they live. I have been here for oyster hour many times, but this trip was different. I appreciated the effort; the honor of running a local business in such a prestigious town. The work. The loyalty. The neighborhood.

I have been to every monument and experienced every culturally inspiring activity/ memento in the D.C. area, but that's not what it's all about.
It represents freedom. The freedom of this country, our constitution and life.

D.C. is the small piece of America that IS America.


“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”
John F. Kennedy

Lovely La Jolla, California - 10 reasons to visit this beachside paradise

my personal favorite beach town

10. Family Friendly

9. Seaside dining

8. Live Sea Lion Entertainment

7. Boutique shops line the strand

6. World class Golf

5. Oceanside walks, La Jolla Cove

4. HH prices you won't believe

3. Sweet Beaches and Green Park areas

2. Beautiful Sunset views

1. La Jolla Caves

 

La Jolla is the mature, lush secret of San Diego. One of my all time favorite beach towns, La Jolla has a well manicured, affluent energy that draws in discerning tourists from all over the world, for the right reasons.
The La Jolla cliffs overlook a calm part of the Pacific ocean with walking paths which make the views accessible to visitors while minimally disturbing the local inhabitants. The well groomed paths are lined with florals, and the sweet birds they attract, enticing visitors like a charming, fairy-tale village.

The serenity and quiet vibe La Jolla exude make it:

Sunny La Jolla Cove

10. Family friendly - this is a place you can take grandpa and the toddlers. Age appropriate activities for every member of the family. The pace of La Jolla is suitable for ages 2 to 82.

Shops dedicated to children and their needs, as well as full service, family accessible restaurants and shops alongside the beaches. There are many dedicated trails along the cliffs to provide safe hiking experiences for the entire family.

For adult experiences, couples, or after the kids go to sleep there are:

9. Fantastically sexy, high-end restaurants and bars. The seaside dining is superb. Famous chefs, a reputation for white tablecloth service, and the most divine seafood along the coast. You can find lobster and oysters on almost every menu in this city.

The bar scene is fancy. Like Aspen in January, fancy. If that's your thing, you'll love it. It is the only part of San Diego where flip flops and tee shirts aren't truly welcome.

Sea Lions

8. The sea lions will keep you highly entertained for hours and hours. They play in the ocean and swim back and forth nudging one another with nose kisses. They bounce along the sand finding friends and mama sea lions to sun next to. The days grow long watching these sea creatures enjoy the lazy days of beach living.



When you've had your fill of the sea creatures life on the beach, make your way up the winding streets for your recommended dose of retail therapy:

7. The boutiques that line the curved streets of La Jolla are filled with various trinkets, boutique clothing items, as well as beach wear, and golf attire. Anything you might need for a weekend in California, you can find along the streets of this sweet town. The children's stores are reminiscent of animated stories and candy, with their bright colors and sweet accessories.

If you are not a big shopper, but still want to be outdoors:

6. Don't forget your putter. You will find world class golf in La Jolla, including the famous Torrey Pines golf course where Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson have been teeing up for many, many years. The greens are beautiful. The grounds are well maintained, and it is one of the most scenic golf courses I have ever had the pleasure of walking.

serene shell lined walkways

Before the sun begins to set, or you are looking for an early morning introspective walk along the oceans edge:

5. Walk the dedicated paths that line the cliffs in La Jolla cove. The walks will soothe your soul as you listen to the waves and feel the soft earth under your feet. The smell of the ocean and the sound of the water will take you to your happy place and you will never want to leave. It is a great place to meditate and reflect. This space was constructed with peace and solitude in mind.

As the day progresses and the warmth of the sun and the "feel goods" start to prepare you for the light of evening:

4. Sip a late afternoon cocktail at one of the famous restaurants and bars who dim their prices for the twilight crowd. I like a discounted glass of wine on the beach. Who doesn't? Yet, the bartenders at these spots have been around as long as the waves have been crashing against the beachside windows that overlook the ocean. They would give these new "mixologists" a run for their money.

One of the best Happy Hours in the area is notably at the Marine Room. They do have a dress code if you reserve a seat in the dining room, but the views are well worth the coat and tie. Sit in the bar area and enjoy the lovely background of ocean waves as families, and couples stroll along the sand taking in the gift from Mother Earth.

3. Some of the best beaches, albeit intimate and quiet, are located in this small strip of land. The beach areas are just as beautiful as the green spaces. Parks are everywhere - take the kids and the dog, or simply find a quiet place to rest the head of your lover on your lap for an afternoon of memory making to share with your own grandchildren in 30 years. Some of the park areas are so small, they seem to be made solely with you and your special one in mind, for an impromptu picnic. Just enough space for you, your love, the blanket you sit upon... and your picnic basket. Enjoy the moments. Appreciate the intimacy la Jolla offers. If you stay long enough to catch a sunset:

2. Make certain you enjoy a sunset view from the cliffs. Take advantage of the optimally placed benches along the cliff trails. Sit and watch the sun disappear into the ocean, or stand along the palm trees or on the bridge that connects the top of the cliffs with the city limit. But take it in. Breathe it in. Take a few minutes to observe one of natures most famous daily events and wonder how such a lovely gift is offered to us mere mortals each and every day if we stop long enough to appreciate it. The oranges and yellows as they finish the ocean blue is the perfect combination of the beginning and ending of life itself, in the form of day to night.

And finally, one of my favorite things to do in La Jolla is visit the seven caves at the foot of the cliffs:

1. La Jolla caves, whether by kayak, or via foot; Find yourself traversing down 145 steps to the inside of the caves. Read about the history of ancient pirates, human trafficking, and original migrant workers here along the coast back in the day. It's fascinating and well worth the couple of bucks it costs to check it out firsthand.

the steep trek into Sunny Jim Cave

Each of the seven caves has a name and a story associated with the cave. From The Cave Store ($5 for adults/ $3 for children), you can climb down the steep stairs into the only cave accessible by foot.

There is a kayak excursion which will take you on a scenic tour of all the caves and even allow you to enter the only cave large enough to allow traffic, the Clam Cave. If the tide is low enough, that is.

The caves represent history, and perhaps folklore from the time. The white woman cave gets its name from the story of a young bride who was swept away and never seen again. These tales, as interesting as they are, still represent the danger of the ocean and the very real consequences of daring too far to tempt Mother Nature.

La Jolla is the intuitive breast of California. I embrace this town for the peaceful space it represents (in myself).

"Shift your vibration to change your reality. Vibrate on a frequency that attracts what you desire. Make it your reality." SSK

The Subtle Allure of Palm Springs

Palm Springs is hot hot hot!


Topping 100 degrees for over half the year, Palm Springs is known as a retirement paradise for the elite golf, and senior community. A well known tennis resort destination, the beautiful weather affords some of the biggest tournaments to visit the city. The upcoming BNP Paribas Open Mar 6 - 17 is a huge annual draw for tennis pros and spectators from all over the world.

Great restaurants and bars, live music, and fabulous shopping invite tourism of all kinds.
Palm Springs has some of the best resale and consignment shops I have ever visited.



Coachella is the new young draw, but this golf destination has been drawing the elite wealthy to this desert city for decades. The music hype has become a trendy reason to bring yet, even more money into this community...and, Good on them.

This year, April 12-21 the trendy desert music festival brings headliners like Ariana Grande and Childish Gambino, both young icons in their own right, for two weekends of woodstock-like shenanigans.
I am not a hater and any reason to listen to live music, in the sun, have some cocktails, or whatever makes your kitty purr is a reason to dance like no one is watching even when the whole world is doing exactly just that.




As a popular snow bird destination, the winter temperatures are easy on the joints, and the soul. Pool temps are comfortable year round and I believe anytime the sun out is bikini weather. Let's do this.

Desert heat and mountain landscapes line the upscale communities. Pool life is an integral part of the Palm Springs lifestyle.

One of my favorite warm weather retreats, what I love most about Palm Springs is the effort to seem casual and low key while surrounded by the elite rich and famous.

The golf and tennis clubs outnumber all other entertainment establishments in the city.
The cost of hotels here also out-price  any hotel in the country, competitive with New York and Los Angeles.
One of my favorite stays is the Hilton Doubletree golf resort. It is pet friendly, has a fantastic pool area and spectacular golfing for the price. One of the more reasonable resorts in the area and if you are a Hilton Honors member, you can use points for this booking and utilize all the Honors benefits during your stay. I always need the complimentary water, and who doesn't love the famous Doubletree cookie?

AirBnb's are plentiful and accessible to travelers providing access to the upscale lifestyle and quiet neighborhoods of Palm Springs, and many times less expensive than a hotel or resort. Why rent a room when you can have the whole house?


The AirBnb I chose was landscaped beautifully, with an inviting pool as the centerpiece.  Fire-pits accessorize the outdoor entertainment area and provide a sexy backdrop for nights outdoors by the pool. The designer payed special attention to keeping the decor aligned with the Palm Springs aesthetic yet still remaining contemporary and clean. This is always my favorite option when traveling to Palm Springs.
Indian Wells Private Retreat available for rent, year round.

The Royal Wedding... A destination trip to London and Windsor, U.K.

London
I had been to the city before, maybe four years ago, and was a tad disappointed to say the least. I felt I was treated poorly and perhaps an unwanted tourist in the city. Outside of a couple experiences with locals who invited me to dinner and a sweet visit to the Princess Diana memorial park, I had previously stated, I would never return to this dreadful city.
I was wrong.
I am so glad I gave a second chance. I met nothing but lovely people. The weather was strikingly beautiful. I felt welcomed by everyone I came into contact with. I don't know if it was the climate of the wedding itself, or the good weather, or perhaps, just time, but London gave me the face everyone has talked about in the past that I had not yet been able to experience.

The green room, The Portobello Hotel

Portobello Hotel

I stayed at The Portobello Hotel in Notting Hill which has a wonderful reputation. Quite a few celebrities, as well as at least one royal, have stayed there. It presents as a bed and breakfast. It's luxuriously quaint, as it sits on a side street, almost hidden from the public view. It is lovely inside and out. The rooms were lush. The gardens in the rear were green and beautiful. The setting was right out of a travelogue.
The staff was cheerful and generous. They were extremely helpful from check-in, to instructions on local directions, and activities. They made me feel very welcome and treated me with respect and kindness. It really does make a difference and change the feel of your trip when your hosts act as if they truly want you there for your visit and care about your stay.

I visited some traditional pubs, had fish and chips, drank Guinness with friends and found myself wanting to experience more. The famous Piccadilly Circus and Paddington Station were two of the high traffic places I would have normally avoided, but the energy was fantastic. The crowds were peaceful and good, and there was no fear of negative interaction which has unfortunately deterred me from going many places in America lately. I felt safe and un-threatened and truly enjoyed every minute of every day in the U.K.

The crowded shopping areas were fairly calm as people milled about minding their business and enjoying the day. I just had to remind myself to look right when crossing the street! Even the climate on the crowded tubes was pleasant and extremely tolerable.





Windsor


The city of Windsor is quaint and filled with boutiques, pubs and restaurants. It is quite touristy but small and unassuming. There are hidden B and B's all over the town and even a university right in the center of town

The grounds outside Windsor Castle were filled with the self-invited guests, and tourists from around the globe. We came from far and wide to celebrate the historic moment of the Royal wedding between the younger son of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, Prince Harry, and the American actress, Meghan Markle.
It was a moment to watch history in the making. But also, a moment to revel in love.Everyone loves a great love story with the happiest of endings. The locals were happy to fill in the visitors on how this wedding was so much different from event of the past; the rules of the royal family. One of the B and B owners shared the entire history of how royal spouses were chosen and accepted into the family, and how pleased the people were to see some of the outdated rules overlooked for this union. The celebration by the people, us, was the best part of the event. We brought the energy of all who wanted to see this union which offers hope, not just for love but for the world to change for the positive.

The wedding

The view of the screens showing the wedding inside

The crowd exceeded over one hundred forty thousand people gathered in the small city of Windsor to witness this historic event. Yet unlike many events which require armed police and high security, and hours of lines in and out of the venue, this event was sophisticated and calm. The crowds moved gaily into the venue, mostly respectful of others space. From tee shirts and shorts, to fascinators and wide brimmed social hats, everyone acted with decency. It was a family friendly event and even the children seemed on their best behavior even though waiting for hours to witness the Queen, her grandson and his future bride.

We arrived hours before the wedding ceremony began to secure the best viewing spot for the post-ceremony procession down the long walk. There were screens positioned outside the Castle grounds where the thousands of visitors could watch the ceremony that was happening just inside the gates. After the ceremony, those of us lined up alongside the procession drive were able to witness the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they formally made their way through the community. It was a well known tradition and readily received by all who had traveled for this moment. The day had an air of joy which included dancing in the streets and many many celebratory parties afterwards.

Introducing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex

Japan in one week...what would you do?

This trip to Japan came up unexpectedly for me. My husband scheduled a business trip and I was fortunate enough to have an open week on my calendar. This never happens! The stars aligned, so we found some United airline points and packed my bag.

Traditional and modern restaurants

Since Japan had not found priority on my bucket list - there had been no planning. Yes! I wanted to roam the streets of Tokyo at night, and Yes! I wanted to get to the top of Mt Fuji. But, what did I know about Japan? Sushi..Kimonos..Karaoke??

Turns out, I was a total moron when it came to Asia. So, I sat down and made a list. What was most important for me to see to get a well rounded experience AND what could I double down for my "50 before 50" list which is still in full effect?

Original street signs

All this went out the window when I arrived and found a quiet, respectful culture I knew little about. This trip quickly turned into a learning experience I will never forget. My Japanese adventure became an opportunity for me to pull together all the elements of the book I am currently working on, as well as many moments of reflection. I was able to reconcile a lot of the elements that are confusing for me as I fumble through my mid-life crisis.






In a land where little English is spoken, it was hard. Let's start there. I consider myself a savvy traveler (pun intended). I find it easy to maneuver maps, streets, bus and rail systems. It is quite a rush to get where you need to go in a foreign city without losing your day to getting lost. In Japan, the metro system is in Japanese. It is difficult to find maps that are bi-lingual, and some stations do not have them at all. That makes it difficult to get around without asking for help. You must engage with the people. That is the best part of the travel experience, and helps you get past your fears and insecurities.

There is an interesting collaboration, in Japan, of traditional and modern; architecture, people, food, even the train terminals. Some with multi- lingual signage, menus and/ or maps, some with Japanese only.

Peace Lantern

I spent one morning in a garden that was so peaceful. There were water features and turtles every where. An older gentleman approached me and asked where I was from. I tend to forget that I am unique looking, not only to my own nationals, but especially to people abroad. He watched me for my entire stay in the garden. He watched me take photos. He watched me admire the turtles. He followed me around the park with his eyes, I am certain, wondering how this curious brown girl ended up in his neighborhood...in his country. This is what sparked my curiosity of self even further. Why was I here? What am I searching so desperately for?

I visited Tokyo, Otsuki and spent most of my time in Yokohama where my hotel was located. It was easy(in theory) to get around by train and even though it took more time than I like to spend in transit, it was inexpensive and allowed me to people watch and try to communicate.

Downtown Yokohama

Japan is so very unique. Very clean. The things I noticed seem very simple, but so important in comparing our lifestyle here in the states. People do not litter. If they can not find a trash can, they take their trash with them. You also do not see people walking about the streets eating, likely one reason the trash factor isn't so dire. People leave their bikes unlocked on the street, because stealing is simply unacceptable. There are "women only" cars on the train between 5a-9a. It is an admirable gesture for rush hour when there is stuffing of people on every car and people can't help but be in your personal space.
Still respectful.
I did not see drunken tomfoolery like we witness here. I also saw not one obese person. Not one. We do everything in abundance here, and I do not believe that is a good thing. We over spend. We over eat. We waste like it's our J O B. We live with no regard for our planet, our future, or even our own health. The Japanese culture is so respectful, of each other and the space they take up. I felt truly honored to be allowed in their country and presence for even one week. I still have so much to learn in this short life, but felt I was able to connect the dots a bit on this trip.

There were a few things that stood out as different. The Japanese yen was everywhere. Recently in places like Copenhagen, I saw people moving towards a consistent electronic means of payment, even at the metro stations. I expected that in Japan as well, but money/ currency is power...still, and has value in many places. Giving a child a coin. Placing yen in a vending machine. The value of actual money itself, not the concept that has been propagated by societies that rely on moving, shaking, trading an imaginary value for something that doesn't really even exist.

Yokohama Chinatown

There were ups and downs. I left with no souvenirs, since I waited until the last day and at Nissan stadium(on a game day), the opening of the stadium shop was delayed an hour, we were unable to get inside. That's what happens when you put all your eggs in one basket, so to speak.

I visited Chinatown in Yokohama looking for something very specific for my mom. I did not find it but I did notice the very American logos on clothing and hats...and it made me sad. Every where we go, commercial America has its hand. And, hey! Don't get me wrong capitalism is great, but what I witnessed and felt in a country who values its people over money was life.

Spring Welcome Back Vlog

I warned you all that I would be testing the waters on this "vlogging thing" and stepping out of my social media comfort zone, so I am starting to Vlog for Savvy Traveler followers.

This also gets me a chance to get more subscribers to my YouTube channel, where I am posting more pics/ vids from my travel.

Han on tight, I am certain this is going to be a bumpy ride as I get used to the video concept, but I'm on-board if you are.

Savvy Traveler VLOG

Feel free to check out the past YouTube videos which should be attached to some of the latest blogs below, as well as a sneak peek of Cuba - the pics are coming along, even if the words aren't perfect on the screen yet.

Thanks again for all the support!

Welcome Back! Travel Savvy has been upgraded!!

The Savvy Traveler you all know and love has finally fund some congruity.
Check out the blog for new videos and writings compiling all the cities I toured in 2015, including Costa Rica, Hong Kong, Bali and Hawaii (again).
New pictures. New dialogue. New vibes, and here is a little video to say thank you and I missed YOU!

Also, I am no longer on FB, but please follow photos on Instagram @TravelsavvyIntl and tweets @TravelsavvyIntl : You will find my posts here on my blog, and you may always reach me by email and phone (DM if you do not have that current information). I am planning on vlogging more, so you can see my face and I can charge you with my travel energy, so watch out for that fun stuff coming up!

Love and Blessings~
Sherri