My trip started at 4 a.m. in an airport. Normally, being awake at this ungodly hour would peeve me, BUT I was so excited to 1) see new places, 2) spend time with my best friend, and 3) solo travel for the first time.
After a very early flight, I landed in DC and was immediately reminded of what a pretty city it is. It had been around 5 years since I’d visited, so it all seemed shiny and new.
After spending my day working in DC, I made my way to Lovettsville, Virginia. The drive was beautiful and not at all what I’m used to in Miami. I loved all the greenery, space, and deer!
For dinner, we went to Lightfoot, a bank turned restaurant in Leesburg, Virginia. The interior was so ornate and picturesque! The dirty martini was too strong for me, but the waiter brought me some olive juice to make it smoother. For an appetizer, I had a tomato soup that was phenomenal, and then for dinner, I had Everyone’s Favorite Salad (chicken and greens tossed with raspberry vinaigrette, roasted almonds, naval orange, fresh raspberries, brie, balsamic glaze, pears, bacon, and grilled baguette) which was scrumptious. To top it off, I had the Mocha Ya Ya (flourless bittersweet chocolate torte flavored with espresso and served with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, chocolate sauce, and blue cotton candy!).
This trip included some self-care, like mani/pedis and massages (I’m really lovin’ it here!). I did my nails at Lotus Nail & Spa of Leesburg, and they did a fantastic job painting my nails the baby blue color I desired, along with doing a paraffin treatment on my feet that left them super soft. For the massage, I went to Woodhouse Spa in Leesburg and thoroughly enjoyed it. The spa was so relaxing, and the massage was great; it was much needed!
After getting into relaxation mode, it was time for some retail therapy! I purchased some goodies at Altar’d State that totally fit with my coastal cowgirl vibe for the summer.
Since we’re on the topic of my summer vibe and the cute stuff I found at Altar’d State, I wanted to highlight some of my fits from the trip (all following the coastal cowgirl aesthetic🤠🌊).
While in Virginia, I had the pleasure of having pastries from Petite LouLou Crêperie in Purcellville. I loved their almond croissants and peach mimosas.
I had another amazing meal at Bia Kitchen, which has European-inspired, locally grown food. I loved my salad and ahi tuna, but the true highlight was the chocolate lava cake!
Since I love star and moon gazing every chance I get, I was looking forward to doing it in the countryside of Virginia. Although I didn’t see as many stars as I would’ve liked, I was still happy to look up and see the night sky so clearly!
I took a day to explore Baltimore since it was so close (about an hour and thirty minute drive), and to be honest, it was a lot nicer than I expected. Although I only stayed by the harbor, I was pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness, as well as how safe I felt.
Before checking out the National Aquarium (the whole reason why we came here), we had bloody marys at Docks on the Harbor, a new trendy spot with fun picture spots and complimentary rubber ducks! The vibe reminded me of Miami (I guess I can’t escape it).
I didn’t realize until I was in the area that Hell in the Harbor, a heavy metal festival, was happening. We got to experience a live heavy metal concert while walking around the city!
Now for the greatest attraction in Baltimore’s inner harbor – The National Aquarium! I had a great bonding experience with my sister taking in all the beautiful views, petting jellyfish, snapping pictures, watching sharks, exploring a rainforest exhibit featuring a sloth and parrots, and so much more. I will say that on Memorial Day weekend, the aquarium was PACKED. If you go, try to visit during the week or maybe not on a holiday weekend.
After getting our steps in, we went to have crab cakes at Phillips Seafood. I had a locally brewed blonde Guinness and crab cakes with lots of crab and very little filler. Safe to say, I was a happy girl!
On my last day, I got to see a bit of DC. Although, the weather was less than ideal, haha. I even made sure to get some sushi with crab at the airport before leaving.
My Virginia/Maryland trip was a huge success. As for my favorite part, that would have to be spending time with family (and, of course, the gorgeous drives!).
Until next time…stay tuned for more travel content!
Caylin Jimenez 