Take us back! Over New Years we started planning our annual Mother-Daughters trip. We love warm weather and mom wanted to go somewhere our grandmother loved. Mom threw out Marco Island and we’d never been before. Grandma would visit with my grandfather for his company’s conventions and loved it. We booked our trip and it was nice having something to look forward to over the winter months.

Now that we have our own families it’s so nice getting that one on one time with our mom! We have the same taste in what we like to do, so it’s easy to travel together. We laughed so hard, explored, relaxed, ate lots of fresh seafood, enjoyed every second of our time together, and I even survived the stomach bug!

Since it was our first time on the Island I did my research and put together our travel guide. I’m sharing all the deets on where we stayed, what we did, and where we ate on Marco Island.

Where to Stay

We stayed at the beautiful JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort and had incredible service. I highly recommend staying here for your next family vacation!

What to Do

Enjoy the beach, pools, and hot tubs at the beautiful JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort.

Book a massage at the beautiful JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort and spend the day enjoying the amenities. With any spa service, you have access to all amenities from open to close and you can come and go as you wish. After our massages we enjoyed the outdoor adult only pool and mineral tub. We ordered lunch from the spa’s menu and relaxed. Before we headed to the beach for the rest of the day, we enjoyed the indoor hot tub, plunge pool and eucalyptus steam room. Our therapists recommended we sit in the hot tub and then do 3 seconds in the cold plunge pool. We did that three times and it felt so good. Amanda and I held hands the whole time and laughed, but it really did feel good when we got back in the hot tub. We showered and headed to the beach for the rest of the day.

Book a professional guided Marco Island Shelling and Dolphin Boat Tour. I was looking forward to this, but I woke up with the stomach bug (that Brooks had a couple of days prior. Michael and Maci even caught it). My mom and sister went ahead (I insisted) and they had a great time. They brought back 3 whole buckets of shells!

Shelling – Tigertail Beach and Sand dollar Spit. Get there early in the morning and bring your own bucket!

Where to Eat

Doreen’s Cup of Joe – A must for breakfast or brunch!!! They don’t take reservations like most places on the island. If it wasn’t so crowded I’d go every morning. They have something for everyone and their fresh squeezed Florida oranges make for the perfect mimosa!

Quinn’s on the Beach – They serve lunch and dinner right on the beach and have a fun fire dancer show at sunset. Fresh fish and their piña coladas are amazing. If you’re staying at the resort they have a cart that comes around all day and you can order food and drinks from while laying out on the beach! Talk about full service!!

Snook Inn– Waterfront tables and live music with great food! Order their Ahi Tuna Nachos to start! Open for lunch and dinner.

Island Gypsie – Located on the Isles of Capri this waterfront family owned spot is known for their fresh shrimp, onion rings, and carrot cake!

The Oyster Society – Walking distance from the resort this spot was amazing. Lots of outside seating and live music! Fun cocktails and fresh seafood and sushi!

On the list for next time!

DaVinci’s Ristorante – The Oyster Society and Snook Inn’s sister restaurant. We heard this spot was great if you’re looking for authentic Italian food!

The Little Bar – Waterfront dining with fresh seafood. A local favorite!

Stans – Recommended if you’re looking for a good time. Know for their Sunday funday.

CJ’s on the Bay – Waterfront dining with fun drinks and entertainment.

Joey’s – for a casual pizza and pasta.

Transportation

Uber – I recommend using Uber during your stay on Marco Island, but be aware there aren’t many drivers on the island. Plan ahead and build in time to wait. We asked one of our drivers if he would be available to take us to the airport the next morning and he did, which was amazing!

Marco Island Bike Rentals – You can rent bikes and have them delivered right to the resort.

Some of the restaurants and shops are also walking distance to the resort.

Shop the post 

Do you have a special mother-daughter tradition?

Inspired, Maryashley 

The post Marco Island Mother-Daughters Travel Guide appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

There is nothing like the white sugar sandy beaches lining 30A! From Grayton to Rosemary and everywhere in between, this magical paradise has it all! We just got home from a wonderful week-long vacation in Seaside, a family friendly vacation destination that is one of our favorite places to visit again and again! Seaside has been named the “Best Beach on Earth” for families by Travel + Leisure magazine and we have to agree! Seaside is so close to home and has serenity like no other place. There is so much to do, see, and eat here, and of course it is one of the most relaxing places!

We had the most magical week in Seaside, FL! Mornings spent exploring and swimming, days spent building sand castles, enjoying snacks on the sugar sand beach, watching the sea life in the crystal-clear waters and taking in the most beautiful sunset! We even had a few date nights! I’ll treasure the sweet memories forever! We were so excited to take Brooks, our 13-month-old son, with us for the first time to show him around our absolute favorite place to visit!

Where to Stay

We stayed in the Emma Lou, which is a beautiful, newly renovated light, bright, and airy cottage right in the heart of Seaside! Emma Lou is less than a 5 minutes walk from the Odessa beach Pavilion and the Seaside Central Square. Seaside is a community made up of about 400 homes and has everything you need within walking distance including shopping, dining, galleries, and offices.

The rental included Seaside Amenity passes that gave access to 3 pools (the largest pool is 3 houses down), a fitness center, and wrist bands that allow access to all 9 of the private beach pavilions in Seaside. These amenities are available to Seaside residents and Seaside renters, making it private and less crowded.

It truly felt like our home away from home! With a dreamy upgraded kitchen fully stocked and a two-story traditional wrap around Southern porches this place makes for the perfect family getaway. Wake up to a cappuccino and unwind with a glass of wine and a book on the porch bed swing. There are beach towels that are provided making it easy to grab and go to either the beach or pool in minutes.

Emma Lou also comes with several beach cruisers available for use during your stay, which is a huge perk especially if you want to visit neighboring towns. There’s parking, Wi-fi and TVs in every room.

Where to Eat

There is only 1 traditional grocery store, a Publix in Watercolor, which is a 5 min drive from Seaside. There is an artisan market in Seaside called Modica Market with gourmet groceries, sandwiches, and snacks for the beach! 

Airstream Row – Home to several custom retrofitted Airstreams serving up elevated street food! There’s truly something for everyone. Our favorites are Barefoot BBQ and The Meltdown on 30A!

Bud & Alley’s – The newly renovated, Bud & Ally’s is one of the only ocean front restaurants on 30A offering great food, fun vibes, and beautiful views!

Bud & Alley’s Taco Bar – This is our favorite Seaside spot! Located in the Seaside square, this super casual walk up bar allows you to walk up straight from the beach or the pool or take it to go. The shrimp and fish tacos are our favorite and you have to get their cheese dip and chips! Baby Brooks was a huge fan too!

Bud & Alley’s Pizza Bar + Trattoria – Home to the best pizza on 30A!

Amavida Coffee & Tea – Fresh baked goods, fresh coffee, and Kombucha on tap! Amavida is one of our favorite ways to start our mornings.  

45 Central Wine Bar – We recently celebrated our 5^th wedding anniversary here and had a great experience. We had wonderful service, shared several sushi rolls, and they even brought us sparkling rose and homemade seasonal dessert to celebrate.

Great Southern Café – We’ve dined here several times and this was the first time we’ve had their famous mojitos! I tried the watermelon/coconut and it was delicious and oh so refreshing. They serve local and fresh southern seafood dishes. If you haven’t tried their cheesy grits, do it!

Pickle’s Burger and Shakes – A colorful and kid friendly beachside grill serves sustainably sourced burgers and has the best chicken fingers and bucket of french fries. Get it to go and enjoy it at the beach or sit under the neon pickle on their patio.

It’s Heavenly Shortcakes and Ice Cream – serving up some of the best gelato, this spot makes for the perfect place to cool down.

What to Do

The beach – The white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of Seaside are easily accessed by 9 private beach pavilions. To access the Seaside beach, you must be a home owner or renter. Each beach pavilion has unique architecture and all of them have showers and bathrooms accessed by code and wristbands. Don’t feel like walking down to the beach and getting sandy? The beach pavilions make for the perfect place to watch the sunset or enjoy your morning coffee.

Cabana Man – Cabanas line the beach every day for fun in the sun. Since the reopening of Seaside from COVID-19, all Seaside guests will need to make a reservation with Cabana Man to help with crowds. It’s such a nice service and allows you to come and go and walk hands free to the beach! The hours are 8am – 6pm.

Pool – During your stay at the Emma Lou you have access to all three heated pools. The largest adult and kid pool is 3 houses down. We enjoyed a swim before Brooks went down for his first nap.

Parks and green space – Head down Forest Street which will lead you to a park, beach volleyball court, and a huge grassy area. It’s right by one of the covered heated kids and an adult only pool. Another one of our favorite grassy areas is Ruskin Park which is surrounded by shops and homes. If you are looking for places that kidos can run around and play really every square inch of Seaside is kid friendly!

Blue Magnolia – Seaside Vacations 30A had the talented daughter and dad team behind Blue Magnolia create the dreamiest beach picnic to help us celebrate our 5^th wedding anniversary! We even let our third wheel dig in first! Meeting this sweet duo and hearing the story behind their brand was so special! If you’re visiting or live on the emerald coast I can’t recommend hiring Blue Magnolia to help you create lasting memories! So grateful for this special time around the table with my little family and for another beautiful day!

If you stay at the beautiful Emma Lou, you will come home to an amazing charcuterie graze box from Blue Magnolia! I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t think of a better way to kick off your vacation!

Shopping – Located in the Central Square these shops have something for everyone!

Bump + Baby by The SEASIDE Style – A beautifully curated boutique. We found Brooks a matching white and navy SEASIDE Style tee shirt here. We sized up to a 2T and it was perfect.

Cabana by The SEASIDE Style – An open-air market filled with fashion and accessories for just about anyone!

Duckies Shop of Fun – This shop is a kid haven! A store filled with toys, gifts, and clothes. It’s hard not leaving with something in hand.

Sundog Books– Looking for a new beach read? Sundog Books is one of the original shops and has a book for everyone. We left with an alphabet Seaside book for Brooks.

The SEASIDE Style – Timeless and classic, a true reflection of the Seaside way which features the original “New Town, Old Ways” tee shirts. We all bought new and matching navy and white tee shirts and hats for our trip! I always love picking up something here every time I visit!

Art of Simple – One of my favorite little home décor and gift shops in Seaside.

Seaside Amphitheater – A great place for the kiddos to run around and hopefully soon they will resume the family friendly concerts, farmers markets, and events.

Deep Sea Fishing – I can’t recommend fishing with Kerry from Not a Dog Charters enough! We’ve chartered a boat with him twice now and always have a blast. Be prepared to take home lots of fresh fish, which he preps for you!

It was the most magical trip! So thankful for this sweet time away with my little family! We made lasting memories we will treasure forever!

Inspired, Maryashley

The post A Guide to Seaside with Seaside Vacations 30A appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

I still remember our first time visiting Serenbe! It was 7 years ago when Maci was just a puppy! Located on the edge of Atlanta, it makes for the perfect day trip or quick weekend getaway. Nygren founded Serenbe with the belief that if you want to change the world, you should start in your own backyard. I’ve talked with him a couple times and still remember him telling me that the residents have two things in common: a passport and a dream.

There is something for everyone to enjoy from farm tours, feeding farm animals, farm to table dining, farmers market, goat yoga, outdoor theater, the spa, wine tasting, shopping, walking, or even cooking classes. If you stay at the Inn or rent a place you will get a farm fresh breakfast, enjoy happy hour snacks at the Farmhouse, and have access to the pools.

We haven’t done goat yoga, a cooking class, or seen a play, but we defiantly have those two on our list!

For the events calendar visit Serenbe’s website here! And I’m always happy to answer any questions too.

Serenbe is a special place to us and I would absolutely love to live here one day…hint, hint Michael We even had our engagement photos taken at Serenbe 5 years ago!

Have you visited this magical place yet?

Inspired, Maryashley

The post A Guide to Serenbe appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

We had the best weekend with friends in Blue Ridge! A much-enjoyed change of scenery with close friends!

Looking for a beautiful backdrop, cooler temps, then I’ve got you covered!

I’m sharing where to stay, eat, and what to do in and around Blue Ridge!

Where to Stay

View-Topia – An upscale dream of a cabin in the North Georgia Mountains located 15 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge! The name speaks for itself offering views you’ll wish to wake up to every day! Our favorite part was rocking on the wrap around deck relaxing with our friends.

This cabin sleeps 10 and has four bedrooms! Learn more about this little slice of heaven View-Topia here and tell them I sent you!

Where to Eat

Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar and Grill – There will be a wait, so put your name in then shop around downtown Blue Ridge.

Das Kaffee Haus – For an afternoon pick me up! The most delicious traditional European coffee!

Mercier Orchards – Save room for a fried pie al la mode!

What to Do

Rent a boat – We loved the folks at Blue Ridge Boat Rentals! There were 8 adults and 4 kids and we rented the Bently Pontoon and had plenty of room. Rent a tube for extra fun!

Hiking – Fall Branch Falls on the Benton MacKaye Trail and Amicalola Falls are our favorite!

Downtown Blue Ridge – Such a cute couple of blocks of dining, galleries, specialty shops, antiques, with a small town feel and the nicest people!

U-Pick at Mercier Orchards This is a family fun event! Check the website for what’s in season.

It’s hard to believe it’s already August! Do you have plans to visit Blue Ridge this summer?

Shop the Post

Inspired, Maryashley

The post Blue Ridge Mountain Getaway appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

Sharing what to eat, drink, and shop for a memorable girl’s weekend in Nashville!

This year my best friend and I decided to do our girls trip in Nashville. We planned and booked everything pre COVID-19. We stuck to the plan and boy am I glad we did! Almost everything we had originally wanted to do, we did. It was so nice having a long weekend away with a girl friend, change of scenery, and being served was a bonus!

This was my first time being away from Brooks. It was originally supposed to be my second time away, but since our Mother Daughters trip in May was canceled, it was my first time. I was anxious about being away from him leading up to our trip. His daycare closed during the height of COVID and we had been spending so much time together! Daycare opened up and we took him back before we left. He finally got readjusted to taking bottle so I felt better leaving him. Once the day came when I said see you later I was fine! After all he was in the same city with his daddy and my in laws so he was well taken care of and loved. It’s safe to say we both had a blast!

Let’s get to it! Here’s what to eat, drink, and shop for a memorable girl’s weekend in Nashville!

Where we Stayed 

The Russell is an old historic church turned boutique hotel located in East Nashville. I can’t recommend The Russell enough. It was affordable, very clean, super cute, and so cozy! They have 23 different rooms and you book the exact room you want. Their slogan is “Stay Here, Change Lives.” A portion of the proceeds go to a local homeless ministry! Love that!

East Nashville

Butcher & Bee – A 3 min walk from the hotel. Delicious farm to table food for everyone!

East Park Donuts & Coffee – Their old fashion donut is amazing!

Five Daughters Bakery – The 100-layer donut, made from scratch daily!

The Pharmacy – Boozy milkshakes and burgers!

Downtown 

The Nashville’s Farmers Market

Liberty Common – Instagram worthy patio brunch.

MakeReady – Restaurant in Noelle. After dinner head up top to the rooftop bar, RareBird.

RareBird – Rooftop bar with a skyline view.

Honky Tonks – Whiskey Row, Jason Aldean’s, Luke Bryan’s, and Kid Rock. Nashville’s staples are Tootsies & Rippies!

Broadway Brewhouse – Where the bushwhacker began!

The Legendairy Milkshake Bar – What milkshake dreams are made of!

The Diner – A must for late night eats!

The Gulch

Nashville Wings Wall Mural – Located across from LA Jackson

Virago – Amazing sushi!

Saint Añejo – Fun for brunch and day drinking! Their patio is amazing.

LA Jackson – Rooftop lounge on top of the Thompson hotel. Amazing views, cocktails, and small plates!  

Shopping at Vici, Blush Boutique, and Kittenish

12 South 

Nashville Looks Good on You Wall Mural – Located behind Frothy Monkey

I Believe in Nashville Wall Mural – Located across from Draper James

Five Daughters Bakery – The 100-layer donut, made from scratch daily!

The Flipside – A retro 50’s dinner with quick food! The perfect spot for brunch on the third day in Nashville!

White’s Mercantile – A gas station general store turned retail phenomenon.

Burger up

Bartaco

Falcon Coffee Bar

Germantown

Kindness is… Wall Mural – Located across from Henrietta Red

Henrietta Red – My absolute favorite restaurant in Nashville. Make a reservation!

5th and Taylor

Butchertown Hall

Go shopping at Shop Living with Landyn – Home, gift, jewelry, shoes, clothing, and beauty shop on Charlotte Ave.

Now that things are opening back up where are you excited to travel to next? Ashley just left and we’re already planning our next girls’ trip! Where should we go next?

Inspired, Maryashley

The post Nashville Travel Guide appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

When Getaway reached out I immediately started planning! The Getaway House was something that I’d been wanting to experience. They reached out before our son Brooks was born. I knew I wanted to wait until he was a little older before we went. With our 4th wedding anniversary right around the corner I thought it would be the perfect way to celebrate! We booked the larger cabin thinking we would bring our Goldendoodle, Maci but we ended up leaving her at home. Now that we have a stay under our belt we will bring her next time!

We packed our things and hit the road on Friday afternoon. The Getaway House truly has everything you need. Just pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, pajamas, loungewear, walking shoes, an extra layer, and a change of clothes. I’m sharing what we packed for our family below!

What we Packed

This was our first vacation as a family of 3 and it was a huge success! Being able to completely unplug and reconnect was so special.

We enjoyed sleeping in, breakfast in bed, being in cozies all day, endless snuggles, hikes, wine tasting, naps, stovetop dinners, fireside chats, roasting s’mores, and shooting star gazing! It was so special celebrating our 4th anniversary with our little one! We enjoyed disconnecting from our everyday and soaking in every moment as a new family of 3!

Our favorite things to do in the area!

Wine Taste at Wolf Mountain Vineyards 

Hike Amicalola Falls

U-Pick at Mercier Orchards

Sharing some of my favorite memories from the weekend!

Want s’more time with the ones you love? Escape the city and getaway to a tiny cabin in the middle of nature!

You will thank me later, promise!

Use code MARYASHLEY25 to receive $25 off your first booking!

Thank you for hosting us Getaway! We can’t wait to come back again!

Inspired, Maryashley

The post Getaway House: Our First Vacation as a Family of 3 appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

There is nothing like the white sugar sandy beaches lining 30A! From Grayton to Rosemary and everywhere in between this magical paradise has it all! There is so much to do, see, and eat here, and of course it is one of the most relaxing places! This is a bold statement, but 30A just may be my favorite place to visit! If you haven’t been, put it on your list and enjoy this 30A Travel Guide.

Tip:

There is only 1 traditional grocery store, a Publix in Watercolor, but there are plenty of artisan markets, fish markets, and cute restaurants both casual and fancy along 30A. 

Where to stay, eat, and what to do from Grayton to Rosemary Beach

Grayton

Deep Sea Fishing – I can’t recommend fishing with Kerry from Not a Dog Charters enough! We’ve chartered a boat with him twice now and always have an absolute blast. Be prepared to take home lots of fresh fish!

Chiringo– A super fun and casual restaurant located walking distance to the beach.

WaterColor

Adorable area for biking and hiking in the nature trails. They also have cute boutiques, restaurants, and farmers markets! Before you go check out their events calendar! 

Fish Out of Water – We haven’t been yet, but always on my list to try!

Wine tasting at Chan’s Wine World

Seaside 

Lots of cute boutiques and shops to browse around. They also have an artesian market across the street (Madoka Market) with lots of healthy food options and snacks for the beach! 

Across from the Seaside square are food trucks. Barefoot bbq, Meltdown on 30A, a juice bar, etc. We have eaten at all of them and they are AWESOME! 

Seaside Amphitheater – Home to family friendly concerts and farmers markets on the weekends!

Bud & Allys – One of the only ocean front restaurants on 30a. Fun vibes and beautiful views!

Bud & Alley’s Taco Bar – in the Seaside square and the tacos are AMAZING! The shrimp tacos may be our favorite of all time! Very casual. Walk up from the beach in a cover up or take it to go!

Bud and Alley’s Pizza Bar– best pizza on 30A!

Raw and Juicy – Cute juice bar and has healthy snacks and meals too! 

Amavida Coffee – Great for an afternoon pick me up.  

Seagrove Beach

One Seagrove Place – We always love staying here! Each condo has two bedrooms and every single condo has an ocean view. We love staying on floor 8 and above for the best views. My favorite thing to do is keep our sliding glass door cracked and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.

Café-Thirty-A – Perfect dinner spot with great seafood!  

The Perfect Pig – Perfect for brunch.

Donut Hut – Awesome donuts and wonderful breakfast sandwiches! Line gets long so get there early! Everything is made to order and is to go only.

Watersound 

The Hub – a fun upscale “food truck type vibe” with great walk up restaurants, live entertainment, and shopping.

Alys Beach

Caliza Restaurant – I don’t even like Key Lime per se, but their Key Lime Martinis are OUT OF THIS WORLD! It’s a stunning restaurant, bar, and pool paradise!

George’s at Alys Beach – Great for lunch or dinner! They also have fresh and healthy food options!

Fonville Press – Coffee, pastries, sandwiches & wine! Adorable relaxed cafe with a patio & bookshop.

Rosemary

Another cute square with grassy areas and boutique shops and restaurants! There’s also a great public beach spot on the other side of The Pearl.

Havana Beach Rooftop Lounge – Must get drinks and appetizers on the rooftop bar of The Pearl. Also has a view of sunset! The downstairs restaurant has a great brunch and bloody bar on the weekends.

Pescado – Indoor and outdoor rooftop restaurant, one of our new favorites!

La Crema Tapas & Chocolate – Cozy romantic patio feel in the Rosemary square. Cute for late night chocolate fondue on the patio with some wine or hot chocolate. 

Have you been to 30a? If so, I would love to know your favorite spot!

Inspired, Maryashley

The post 30A Travel Guide appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

After we got back from our trip to Italy last September we desperately wanted to go back and visit another part of Europe. After much talk and trying to get pregnant we decided it should wait. How could we top our trip to Italy anyway?

Michel jumped online and started looking into places to travel. Not really knowig if I would be pregnant or not we decided on an all-inclusive resort. We really wanted to go back to St. Lucia where we went on our honeymoon, but with the risk of Zika we decided that would have to wait.

We pulled up the Zika map on the CDC website and narrowed down our destinations. After about a week or so of research Michael came across an amazing deal for a 7-night stay in Nassau, Bahamas with airfare included. What more could we want!

Soon after booking our trip, we found out we were pregnant! The timing was honestly perfect and we couldn’t wait to spend 7 nights on a sunny island just the two of us!

Little did we know we would soon be building a house, selling a house, and moving in a day before leaving, but life happens! Going through all of that was made possible by the idea of a tropical getaway soon approaching!

When I say we moved in the day before leaving I’m not exaggerating! Our movers left the house and I called my favorite nail salon begging them to squeeze me in for a pedicure just before they closed! My feet were so swollen from moving for 11hrs. This mamma needed some TLC. I paid for an extra foot massage and was so glad I did. After that I met Michael over at the old house to help him clean it up and we finished up around 10:30pm.

We got to our new house with boxes everywehere, it was pitch black dark and I just sat in the shower and thought to myself this is crazy, but man are we so blessed!

The next morning, we locked up the house and jumped in the Uber beyond excited for a much-needed getaway!

We packed for our vacation before the move so everything was ready to go! I’m linking everything I packed below.

Where we Stayed

We stayed at the RIU Palace Paradise Island, which is located next door to the Atlantis. 

We flew Delta non-stop into Nassau taking us 2.5hrs. Just enough time to watch Baby Mamma with Amy Poehler and Tina Fey. If you haven’t seen it, rent it! We laughed so hard. We booked a transfer from the airport to our resort which took about 30 minutes.

We loved our time at the resort. It was an all inclusive with two pools and the most beautiful beach and water. We had a junior suite with a balcony and a pool and ocean view.

After spending everyday at the beach, we would freshen up and go back down to the beach to watch the sunset.

The resort had 5 dining rooms, 1 of which was buffet style. The other 4 required you to either wait in line at 6:30 PM or put your name down for a later time (usually around 8:00). Once we were ready we would go and put our name in and would receive a buzzer. Once the sun set over the ocean, our table was ready. It always worked out!

They have entertainment at night, but we only made it to the Michael Jackson cover show. Most nights we would just go back to our room and go to bed!

What we Did

If this is your first time visiting the Bahamas here is a list of excursions to check out! I had been before and we really just wanted to rest and relax and that’s exactly what we did!

What to Bring

A hat – I wore this beautiful Lisi Lerch hat every single day! I’m obsessed. Not only is it adorable, but it stays put and protects your face from the sun. I relaxed in a beach chair the whole time I was there with wet hair and the shape stayed beautifully. I can’t wait to take this hat on many more vacations! Thank you so much for the gift Lisi Lerch!

Shop all of my travel essentials!

Sunglasses – Ray-Bans are so timeless. I absolutely love these!

30oz Yeti – To keep your water cold.

20oz Yeti – For mixed drinks or beer. Hotel Riu would make your drink right in your Yeti cup, so you don’t have to worry about your drink getting warm or chasing little plastic cups blowing into the pool or beach.

Sunless Tanner – My absolute favorite one! I used this before I left as well.

SPF CC Cream – I’ve tried so many and this one is my favorite. It doesn’t come off in the pool or beach and gives you all day coverage so you don’t have to worry about getting burned.

Sunscreen – Load up before you go! I only bought two bottles thinking that would be plenty and we ran out on the third day. We bought some from the local market and absolutely fried!

A book – If you’re on your babymoon I highly recommend this one. Michael and I both read, Bringing up Bébé.

Bug spray – I brought this, but didn’t end up using it. I didn’t see one single bug the whole trip!

If you are planning a trip to the Bahamas for your babymoon or next vacation I’m happy to answer any questions you may have!

We also shared some BIG news on the last day of our trip. If you missed it, go and check out this Instagram post.

Inspired, Maryashley

The post Bahamas Babymoon and Travel Guide appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

Let’s get right to it! Here’s what to do, see, and eat for a memorable girl’s weekend in Atlanta!

Where to Eat

BeetleCat Donut Brunch Located in Inman Park right off the Atlanta Beltline, BeetleCat donut brunch is not to be missed. If you like chocolate that least bit, you have to order one if not two of the O.D.B. donuts. It’s the best donut I’ve had in Atlanta!  

West Egg there is always at least an hour wait, but if you’re not starving to death it’s worth it! Breakfast is also served until 5pm so that’s a win!

Emrald City Bagels If you’re ever craving a bagel in Atlanta, ECB has you covered! I’m obsessed with their veggie cream cheese.

Upbeet is someplace I could probabally go everyday for the rest of my life. The food is so fresh and there are so many options for breakfast and lunch! Guac It Out is my favorite.

One Eared Stag Two words, dumpster salad! You have to order one for each of you with a side of fries. The salad cancles out the fries anyway, right? Quite possibly the best and most unique salad in Atlanta. Have you had it yet?

Nuevo Laredo Cantina Not sure if a better queso and salsa exist. Odly enough there isn’t a Mexican restaurant in Califronia that has queso like the south, so make sure to take them here!  

Antico I’m convinced you won’t find better pizza anywhere else! Enjoy Little Italia on the westside or order your favorite pizza to go and cuddle up and watch a chick flick. Either way it’s a must!

El Felix at The Battery There are several resturants in the new Braves stadium. El Felix is one of my favorites and their margaritas and enchalidas aren’t to be missed!

JCT Kitchen Home of the best French fries!

Revolution Donuts Our goal is to try every donut shop in Atlanta! We’re close…maybe after the next visit?

Things to Do

Atlanta Beltline Start at Ponce City Market and head to Krog Street Market along the Atlanta Beltline. Enjoy light bites and cocktails along the way. 

Jackson Street Bridge for some fun photos. There are so many photo ops around the city. What are your favorite places to take photos?

Go to a concert or see a show. Atlanta has several concert venues, so there is always something fun to do!

The Battery Even if the Braves aren’t playing at home, The Battery is not to be missed! Play games at Punch Bowl Social or ride the mechanical bull and dance the night away at PBR. Whichever you choose you will be sure to have a great time!

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Catch an Atlanta United soccer game, or a Falcons football game! The new stadium is amazing and there’s something for everyone. 

Skyline Park Atlanta Play games or go have brunch and drinks on the rooftop at Ponce City Market.

Hotel Clermont The rooftop is not to be missed and is open Thursday – Sunday!

Go Shopping! My favorite spots are Buckhead Atlanta, Lenox, Shops Around Lenox, and Avalon  

Zoo Atlanta Such a fun place to visit on a nice day! Make sure you plan ahead and catch some of the feedings.

Do you have a girlfriend you travel with every year? 

She just left and we’re already planning our next girls’ trip!

Shop the Post

Inspired, Maryashley

The post Girls Weekend in Atlanta appeared first on Simply Maryashley.

Mother’s Day may be over, but it’s never too late to plan your next Mother – Daughter trip! I’m sharing all the deets on where we stayed, what we did, and where we ate in Charleston, SC.

My mom knew my sister was going to start trying for baby #3 and said you know we should do a Mother – Daughter trip before then. This trip was planned so far in advance that little did we know we would both be pregnant! We had a blast and it was truly a trip we will never forget!

Friday‪

11:30am On the road to Charleston, SC. from Charlotte, NC.

2:30pm Checked into The Mills House.

Fun fact: my grandfather’s mother got married here!

The pink, iconic Mills House is a wonderful hotel to stay in during your time in Charleston. Only a few blocks from the Market, the Battery, and King Street, the Mills House makes it easy to explore Charleston by foot. The Mills House has a big outdoor pool to relax by, and a restaurant, The Barbados Room. Request to say in one of the private balconies, poolside, or sun deck rooms for an unforgettable view.

3:30pm Grab a “snack” at Basic Kitchen

This light, bright, and airy spot serves up delicious healthy (but hearty!) food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring the best local and seasonal produce and ingredients. Their kombucha (made locally) was the best I’ve ever had. Don’t miss the chance to dine in their adorable garden patio on a beautiful day!‪

5:00pm Walk and shop along King Street. Grab cookies at King Street Cookies, and don’t miss one of my favorite shops, Skinny Dip!

7:45pm Have dinner at The Ordinary. This may be my favorite restaurant in Charleston! You have to order one of their house made Piña Coladas!  

Saturday

9:00am grab coffee and a pastry to go at Millers All Day while getting ready in the room.

11:30am Lunch at Le Farfalle. Highly recommend this spot! We ordered the whipped ricotta, caesar salad, grilled cheese – tomato soup, and the cia e pipe pasta. Absolutely delicious!

1:00pm Oyster Point Tours A fun and interactive 2-hour Historic Charleston Walking Tour.

Highly recommended by SouthernLiving. This two-hour tour is the perfect introduction to our historic city for first timers to Charleston and for the frequent visitor who wishes to learn something new! Our walk through the French Quarter and South of Broad neighborhoods covers the history, architecture, economics, and geography of Charleston and the surrounding low country with humor and a well-researched, honest accounting of the figures and forces that have shaped historic and contemporary Charleston.

‪3:30pm Late snack/lunch at Miller’s All Day.  

Lower King Street’s brightest new star, Miller’s All Day, is a delicious all-day breakfast spot with both dine-in and grab-and-go options. ‪

5:00pm Head back to the Mills House to rest our feet and freshen up.

8:00pm Dinner at R Kitchen on Rutledge Ave. Tip: You have to make reservations months in advance and there are only 2 seating times available. This is a kitchen, not a restaurant. Seating only 16 people, a different 5-course meal every night, it’s not to be missed!

Sunday

9:00am Grab coffee and a pastry to go at Millers All Day while getting ready in the room.

10:00am Check our bags with the bell man and check out of the Mills House.

10:00am Shop inside the Charleston City Market.

11:15am Brunch at Husk, across the street from the Mills House.

1:00pm Grab your bags and pack the car.

1:45pm Tour the Boone Hall Plantation. Boone Hall is also one of America’s oldest working, living plantations. Don’t miss the home tour and the plantation coach tour.

In 1743, the son of Major John Boone planted live oak trees, arranging them in two evenly spaced rows. This symbolizes southern heritage and will take root in your memory for many years to come. It would take two centuries for the massive, moss-draped branches to meet overhead, forming today’s natural corridor and a scene that NBC Daytime television says is “a must see stop on any trip to Charleston, S.C.”

5:00pm Dinner at Butcher & Bee on our way out of town.  

Hope you enjoyed our Mother-Daughter trip to Charleston!

Have you taken a Mother-Daughter trip?

If so, what was your favorite destination?

Shop the Post

Inspired, Maryashley

The post Mother – Daughter Trip to Charleston appeared first on Simply Maryashley.