Villa Zorayda Museum

Villa Zorayda Museum

Villa Zorayda Museum

St. Augustine, Florida

If you’re planning a trip to St. Augustine, Florida, the Villa Zorayda Museum is a must-see attraction that blends fascinating history, stunning architecture, and cultural treasures. Nestled in the heart of the nation’s oldest city, this historic gem will transport you to another time and place while giving you a unique glimpse into St. Augustine’s rich past.

A Unique Architectural Marvel

The Villa Zorayda Museum is an architectural masterpiece inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain. Built in 1883, the villa was one of the first structures in the United States to be constructed using poured concrete and crushed coquina shells.

Inside the Villa

Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a dazzling collection of art, antiques, and artifacts from around the world. The museum’s exhibits include everything from intricate hand-carved furniture and oriental rugs to Egyptian artifacts and unique decorative pieces. Don’t miss the iconic 2,400-year-old ancient rug made of cat hair—it’s one of the museum’s most talked-about items!

Let me show you some of the treasures you’ll see inside…

The “Court of Lions” is a replica of the Court of Lions from the Alhambra Palace.

Court of Lions at Villa Zorayda Museum

You will immediately feel like you have been transported to another country.

(more…)

Lightner Museum

Exterior Lightner Museum

Lightner Museum

St. Augustine, Florida

When visiting St. Augustine, Florida, a stop at the Lightner Museum is an absolute must. Nestled in the heart of the nation’s oldest city, this historic gem combines breathtaking architecture, fascinating exhibits, and a glimpse into the Gilded Age. Let’s explore it together.

A Historic Treasure in St. Augustine

Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, built in 1888 by railroad tycoon Henry Flagler, the Lightner Museum is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture. From the moment you walk into the grand courtyard with its stunning fountains and lush landscaping, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Lightner Museum outside fountain

My Favorite Spots at the Lightner Museum

The museum’s collection is as diverse as it is impressive. The Lightner Museum isn’t just a museum; it’s a journey through time. Its unique blend of history, art, and architecture offers something for everyone.

There are beautiful works of art.

 

(more…)

Potter’s Wax Museum

Exterior of Potter’s Wax Museum

Potter’s Wax Museum

St. Augustine, Florida

If you’re planning a trip to St. Augustine, Florida, and looking for a fun and unique attraction, Potter’s Wax Museum should definitely be on your itinerary. Known as America’s first wax museum, this iconic spot is packed with lifelike wax figures that make for an entertaining and educational experience.

Step Into History

Potter’s Wax Museum has been a St. Augustine favorite since 1948. Located in the heart of the historic district, it is a perfect stop when exploring. As you explore the museum, you’ll find themed rooms showcasing different categories of figures. One moment, you might be standing face-to-face with Albert Einstein; the next, you’re walking among pirates or medieval knights. The museum’s lifelike displays are not only impressive but also provide great photo opportunities.

So, who did we meet?

Historical Figures

historical figure at Potter's Wax Museum

Martin Luther King Jr

Cleopatra & Julius Caesar wax figures

Cleopatra & Julius Caesar

(more…)

Margaritaville Beach Hotel

Outside view of Margaritaville Beach Hotel JAX

Photo Credit: Margaritaville Beach Hotel JAX

Margaritaville Beach Hotel

Jacksonville, Florida

Looking for a place to kick back, soak up the sun, and channel those laid-back tropical vibes? Time to head to Margaritaville Beach Hotel in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. This place isn’t just a hotel—it’s an escape where every moment feels like a vacation. Margaritaville has everything you need for a fun and relaxing beachside retreat. So, pack your bags, bring your flip-flops, and get ready to soak up those Margaritaville vibes. As they say, it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere.

Click HERE to read all about my stay!

Four Points by Sheraton Jacksonville Beach

Four points Sheraton Jacksonville Beach

Four Points by Sheraton

Jacksonville Beach, Florida

If you’re planning a trip to Jacksonville Beach, Florida, book your stay at the Four Points by Sheraton Jacksonville Beachfront. This oceanfront gem has everything you need for a stress-free vacation, from prime location perks to cozy rooms, and yes, it’s steps away from the sandy shoreline.

Staying here feels like having your own beachfront sanctuary. With its prime location, oceanfront rooms, and thoughtful amenities, it’s the perfect base for exploring everything Jacksonville Beach has to offer. Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or a little of both, this hotel makes it easy to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of Florida’s coastline.

Read all about my stay

Bayfront Marin House

Bayfront Marin House at Sunrise

Bayfront Marin House

St. Augustine, Florida

If you’re planning a trip to St. Augustine, Florida, and looking for the perfect place to stay, Bayfront Marin House should be at the top of your list. This charming bed and breakfast has everything you need for an unforgettable getaway, whether you’re visiting for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat. I was visiting solo, searching for some much needed “Me Time.” I can’t think of a better place to stay since I felt pampered, spoiled, and safe.

Click HERE to read all about my stay.

Key West Itinerary

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa

Key West Itinerary

Who went on this trip?

One of my favorite qualities about my husband is how spontaneous he is.  When he asked me if I wanted to go to Key West with him in five days, I immediately started packing my bags. This trip was all about relaxing, having fun, and spending time together.

Where did we stay?

When it came to choosing a hotel, I had three criteria: location, a pool, and a view of the Gulf.  The Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa more than acceded our expectations and we couldn’t think of a better place to stay while in Key West.

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa

Here’s what we did on our weekend in Key West:

Day 1…The afternoon we arrived:

After exploring the hotel, we went down to the hotel bar, the Blue Mojito Bar and Grill, to enjoy some frozen margaritas and listen to the live music playing.

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa

Dinner was at the hotel restaurant, Shor.  They have an amazing deck that overlooks the Gulf.  (Try the seafood coconut lime risotto.)

(more…)

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa

One of my favorite qualities about my husband is how spontaneous he is.  When he asked me if I wanted to go to Key West with him in five days, I immediately started packing my bags.  When it came to choosing a hotel, I had three criteria: location, a pool, and a view of the Gulf.  The Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa more than acceded our expectations and we couldn’t think of a better place to stay while in Key West. Let me tell you all about our romantic getaway.

Click HERE to read about our stay!

Swimming with Dolphins and More: Discovery Cove, Orlando

 

Walking into Discovery Cove is like walking into a Caribbean island with tropical music playing, palm trees swaying, and dolphins jumping out of lagoons.  It is a paradise and you will never know you are in the middle of Orlando.  It is not a theme park AT ALL, but rather a tranquil oasis where you can lounge around all day.  We were there from 7:00-5:30 and time flew by. 

When we arrived, we were given a quick tour and then brought to the restaurant for breakfast.  There was so much food on our plates that none of us could finish it.  It was delicious and I love that it is included since it’s one less thing to think about planning during your day.  In fact, I was surprised at how few decisions I actually had to make. 

We were then shown our private cabana.  We could not wait to see what was behind this gate.

(more…)

10 Must-Do Activities at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

 

I admit I’m not much of a theme park person, but since I live with two Harry Potter obsessed kids, a stop at Wizard World of Harry Potter at Island of Adventure was on the top of our list during our Florida vacation.  From the second I saw Hogwarts Castle and walked around the streets of Hogsmead, I was hooked.  I’m not sure who had more fun because I was pulling them in all directions.  Here are 10 activities that you must do while you’re there:

DRINK BUTTER BEER:  Before I go any further…I’m not promoting underage drinking pals…butter beer is a frozen piece of heaven that does not have alcohol in it (but boy…that would be good too!).  It tastes like a root beer float combined with butterscotch and caramel. We actually tried to make our own once, but it turned into a Pinterest fail.  It’s a great treat at the end of a hot Florida day.

(more…)