Posts in travel
A Spontaneous Coastal Road Trip: From Boston to Maine

Day 1: Arrival in Boston


We flew direct from Louisville to Boston, and spent our first night wandering the city. After checking into our hotel, we stumbled upon a standout spot for drinks: Yvonne’s in downtown Boston. With chic décor, bold cocktails and a lively vibe, it was the perfect welcome-drink stop. 

We relaxed, toasted to our trip, and soaked in the city energy.


Day 2: On the Road — Salem, Gloucester, PORTSMOUTH, PORTLAND

Early the next morning we picked up our rental car and headed north.

  • First stop: [Salem, Massachusetts]. We didn’t stay long — just drove through — but the historic town instantly caught our interest and we made a mental note to come back.

  • Next: [Gloucester, Massachusetts], home of the “Wicked Tuna”! We paused for lunch right by the harbor and enjoyed fresh-coastal fare. The view + seafood combo = winner.

We continued our drive, crossing into New Hampshire and then Maine.

  • [Portsmouth, New Hampshire] absolutely charmed us. We nearly stayed the night — it’s the cutest seaside town with cobblestone streets, boutiques, and boats lining the water. We took a fun tour of the USS Albacore! I had never been in a submarine before and that was very interesting to experience! Then we strolled downtown along the waterfront.

  • By evening, we made it to Portland, Maine, where we stayed in the Old Port district. It’s such a walkable area filled with cozy shops, breweries, and restaurants.

Day 3: Lighthouses, Dinner & Kennebunkport

Morning in Portland was all about coastal exploration: we did a lighthouse boat tour (a must when you’re in Maine!) and also spotted some old Civil War forts.

For dinner, we treated ourselves at ViA VECCHiA in Portland’s Old Port. The Italian-inspired small plates, cocktails and ambiance were next-level. That evening we drove on to [Kennebunkport, Maine] for our final night — a peaceful, coastal town with so much charm. The kindness of the locals and the relaxed vibe felt like the perfect gentle finale to our adventure.

Reflection: The Joy of Unplanned

What made this trip extra-special? We didn’t have much booked in advance. No strict schedule. We simply drove until we felt like stopping, and that spontaneous freedom made every place feel like we discovered it — not just checked it off.

travelKatie Rankin
Buffalo NY & Niagara Falls (Ontario)

Niagara Falls and Buffalo: A Weekend Adventure

We recently took a quick getaway to Niagara Falls and Buffalo, and it turned out to be the perfect mix of natural wonder, good food, and a little football thrown in.

Day 1: Getting There

We flew into Buffalo, New York, and from there it was surprisingly easy to cross into Canada. We grabbed an Uber to the Canadian border, walked across with our luggage (super simple and stress-free), and then took another Uber straight to our hotel—the Marriott Fallsview.

Our room overlooked Horseshoe Falls, and honestly, the view alone was worth the trip. Falling asleep and waking up to that iconic waterfall right outside our window was nothing short of magical. If you are wanting to experience Niagara Falls, I cannot recommend this hotel enough!!

Once we checked in, we roamed around the area a little while. There was SO much to see and do from arcades, to putt putt, to casinos. I wish we had the kids with us because there were so many kid friendly things to do in walking distance from the hotel!

We grabbed a bite to eat and drink from the hotel and then headed back up to the room to stare at the falls again =)

View from our Room.

View from our sitting area in the hotel room!

Day 2: Exploring Niagara Falls

Our second day was all about adventure and a little indulgence. We grabbed a quick breakfast at the hotel which had a full buffet and then headed down to the water to see what kind of adventures we could get into. We started with the Maid of the Mist boat ride, which was an absolute must. There’s nothing quite like feeling the spray of the falls up close. You are given a poncho ( we did get more wet than I thought we would but not too bad!) and from our experience you did not need to arrive too early. We got there about 20 minutes before the ride, bought tickets right on site and were on the boat quickly after that- not too much waiting around at all!

We wanted to do the zip line after the boat tour but the line was becoming increasingly long. I wish we had done the zip line first, but we did not get a chance to! Once we got cleaned up from the boat ride, we headed out to Peller Estates Winery for some tastings—such a beautiful spot and a nice change of pace from the action at the falls. The grounds were stunning and the charcuterie board was 10/10.

Afterward, we checked out Niagara’s Flight Simulator, which turned out to be surprisingly awesome and gave us a unique perspective of the area. The ride is not too crazy so kids and elderly people both were able to ride!

Dinner that night was at Massimo’s Italian Restaurant, and I can’t recommend it enough. The bruschetta and bolognese were perfection, and paired with the restaurant’s incredible views, it was easily one of the best meals of the trip. We ended the evening watching fireworks right from our hotel room—another perk of staying at the Fallsview.

View from Massimos

Day 3: Crossing Back into Buffalo


The next morning, we Ubered back across the border, which only took about three minutes. We actually talked to an Uber driver we had the day before and he told us he could take us across in car to make it easy (which it was!)

We then checked into the Embassy Suites in Buffalo, dropped our bags, and headed straight to the Buffalo Bills game—an unforgettable experience if you’re even remotely into football. We became Bills fans last year after meeting a bunch of their fans in Indianapolis when they were playing the Colts. We kept joking that they were converting us to Bills fans and they were so proud. We promised we would make it up for a game this year and I am SO happy that we did!

After the game, we headed back to the Embassy Suites and had dinner at the hotel restaurant. It was the perfect low-key way to wind down after such a fun and full weekend.

Final Thoughts

Between the breathtaking views at Niagara Falls, the wine and dining experiences, and the excitement of a live Bills game, this trip had a little bit of everything. If you’re considering a weekend getaway that combines natural beauty with city energy, Niagara Falls and Buffalo make a fantastic pair.

travelKatie Rankin
Nantucket!

3 Perfect Days in Nantucket: Food, Fun, and Island Vibes


Nantucket is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, savor every moment, and explore every corner. We recently spent three days soaking in the island’s charm, and it was an experience we won’t forget. Here’s how we made the most of a long weekend on this idyllic island.

Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Exploration

We stayed at The Carlisle House, which couldn’t have been more perfectly located. Being right in downtown meant we could walk to nearly everything, and with Ubers and cabs readily available, getting around was a breeze.

After settling in, we grabbed dinner at Ventuno, and wow—amazing drinks and an atmosphere to match. The French 75 was a standout and the perfect way to kick off our trip.

After dinner, we couldn’t resist checking out Club Car, a lively piano bar. We ended up stopping by at least once every night—because why not? The music, energy, and cocktails were just that good. We also met so many wonderful people!



Day 2: Scootering and Culinary Adventures


While we were at Club Car, a woman talked us in to renting a motorized scooter for the day! She was adamant that it was the best way to see the island, and boy was she right!! We ended up keeping the renal for 24 hours and I highly recommend! It gave us the freedom to explore the island without the hassle of a car, and the views made it feel like the ultimate Nantucket experience.

So, we started the day with breakfast at Lemon Press, a must for fresh juices and smoothies. The energy there in the morning was contagious, and the food set us up perfectly for the day. They also have acai bowls and hot meal options as well!

Then we took off to another part of the island, to ‘Sconset. There we shopped, went down to the beach, saw an iconic lighthouse and grabbed a bite to eat! We went with a quick deli sandwich from Claudette’s sandwich shop. I think it was the best sandwich I have ever had! After exploring the super cute town of ‘Sconset we headed back toward downtown, taking the scenic route! Nantucket is so much more rural than I imagined!

Once back at the Carlisle house, we got changed and headed our for dinner. We opted for The Pearl, doing small plates and Asian-fusion delights. Everything was absolutely delicious and a perfect way to enjoy flavors without committing to a single dish. We ended up back at the Club car after dinner and then someone recommended we head out to Gaslight. We stopped by there and The Chicken Box- both of which were a hoot!

Day 3: Sunset and Farewell

We started day 3 with the Lemon Press again. When you have something that good, you may as well go back! We LOVED the sweet green juice, it felt like a great way to start the day! We hopped back on our scooters and went to check out the other end of the island and Millies! They have gorgeous views of the sunset and it is a short walk from the beach so you can grab a bite and take it down there with you!

After we returned the scooter, we decided to head over to to Cisqo Brewery, where the Frosé was dangerously good. Live music made the atmosphere unforgettable, though seating is limited—so plan accordingly.

No Nantucket trip would be complete without a sunset stop at Millie’s, so we headed back over there to catch it that night. The street corn appetizer was a revelation—so good that we’re still thinking about it. Watching the sun dip over the island was the perfect end to our visit. This was a bucketlist trip for me and it definitely lived up to the hype! The people we met were incredibly kind and helpful!




Tips for Your Nantucket Trip




  • Transportation: You don’t need a car in my opinion. Scooters, Ubers, and cabs get you everywhere.

  • Stay: Downtown locations like The Carlisle House are ideal for walking to restaurants and shops. The Nantucket hotel looked stunning and was also in close proximity to everything.

  • Must-Try Spots: Ventuno, Lemon Press, Club Car, Brotherhood of Thieves, The Pearl, Cisqo Brewery, Millie’s.

  • Scooter Rental: Highly recommended to explore beyond the downtown area and see the full beauty of the island.




Three days in Nantucket may not be enough, but with good food, scenic rides, and unforgettable sunsets, it’s the perfect weekend getaway.

travelKatie Rankin
Escaping the Cold Weather with Breeze Airways

This winter, I swapped the chilly streets of Louisville, Kentucky, for the sunny shores of Naples, Florida, thanks to the convenience of Breeze Airways. With their affordable nonstop flights, what used to be a lengthy road trip transformed into a quick and easy escape to paradise. Here’s a recap of my unforgettable getaway.


The Flight Experience

Flying with Breeze Airways was a breeze—pun intended! The nonstop flight from Louisville (SDF) to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) took just over two hours. Breeze’s focus on comfort and simplicity was evident, with spacious seating, friendly staff, and seamless check-in and boarding. Once on board we were greeted with the friendliest staff. If you are lucky enough to have Ken on your flight, tell him I said hello- he is a treasure!

I opted for a “Nicest” seat, which offered extra legroom, but even their standard seats were comfortable for a short flight. No more worrying about hours on the road or layovers; I arrived in Florida refreshed and ready to explore. Please note the photo of my legs fully extended and I wasn’t touching the wall in front of me. So impressive!!

Exploring Naples

After a 30-minute drive from RSW to Naples, I was greeted by the swaying palms and warm Gulf breezes. Naples is the perfect blend of laid-back beach vibes and upscale sophistication.

Day 1: Check in and Sunshine


I kicked off the trip by checking into our hotel, the Inn on Fifth. It was beautifully decorated for the holiday season and is located in the middle of a ton of bars and restaurants. The sun was shining, so we decided to hit the pool! It is located on the 3rd floor, which made it feel more private and quaint. We hung out there most of the day and then explored the surrounding area!



Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Local Eats

Day two we hit the beach for some sand and saltwater! The Inn on Fifth has a shuttle service that will take you to the beach, as well as provide you with chairs and umbrellas. This was so nice, as the hotel was not located directly on the beach.

Lunch was at The Dock at Crayton Cove, a casual waterfront spot serving up fresh seafood. The shrimp tacos were to die for! Later, we explored Fifth Avenue South, the city’s charming downtown area, filled with boutique shops and art galleries all within walking distance to our hotel.

Day 3: Relaxation and Farewell

On my final day, I made sure to savor the peaceful vibe of Naples. I started the morning with coffee at a local café, then headed to Lowdermilk Park for a few more hours of beach bliss. The calm waters and gentle waves were the perfect way to unwind before heading back to the cold weather in Kentucky! We had a calm day and then hit a local steakhouse for dinner and ended the night fairly early since we had to head back to the airport in the early morning.

The Flight Back

The return flight was as seamless as the journey there. With just a short drive from Naples to RSW and a quick flight home, I was back in Louisville by 9 am Monday morning. Breeze Airways truly made this weekend escape effortless.

Why Fly with Breeze Airways?

1. Convenience: Nonstop flights between Louisville and Fort Myers make escaping the cold weather a breeze!

2. Affordability: Breeze offers budget-friendly options without sacrificing comfort.

3. Time-Saving: A two-hour flight beats a 14-hour drive any day.

Tips for Your Naples Getaway

• Pack Light: With Florida’s year-round warm weather, a carry-on with beachwear and casual outfits is all you need.

• Book Early: Breeze’s flights are popular, so secure your seat well in advance.

• Explore Beyond Naples: Nearby spots like Marco Island and the Everglades are worth a visit.

Heading to Florida for the weekend was everything I needed for a winter escape—sun, sand, and relaxation. Thanks to Breeze Airways, getting there was as enjoyable as the destination itself. If you’re dreaming of warm beaches and stress-free travel, South Florida and Breeze are a match made in heaven.

travelKatie Rankintravel
Pueblo Bonito Pacifica - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!

Before Thanksgiving, Corey and I started planning our February getaway. We try to take an adults only trip in winter to get away from the cold for a long weekend! We knew we wanted to do an all-inclusive resort and I have been wanting to go to Cabo for at least 15 years, so our search began! When I found Pueblo Bonito, I was instantly obsessed and knew we had to go there!

We decided on The Towers at Pacifica for 3 nights! We were traveling from Kentucky and it was about a 6 hour flight in total. When you stay at the Towers, you have access to a butler around the clock! You also have access to the whale watching VIP lounge and are able to check into your room from there, where we were met with drinks and the most delicious guacamole, chips and salsa!

During our stay, we popped around to a few of the other resorts Pueblo Bonito owns, and were able to get there by their free shuttle. Our butler helped set up all of the transportation and reservations! Below is a breakdown of our time spent at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica and a list of the places we ate! I truly cannot express how delicious and fresh all of the food was here!!!

DAY 1:

Upon arrival, we went straight to the whale watching VIP lounge to check in and get some snacks and drinks. The lounge has a stunning view of the ocean and we saw 3 whales pop up within 5 minutes of being there! Our butler said that whale season was November-April and it was an incredible sight to see! Afterwards, we went to our room where our bags had been delivered for us; we changed and headed straight for the pool to relax for a couple of hours before dinner!

Night 1:

Night 1 we visited the onsite restaurant, Peninsula . We chose to dine outside on the balcony overlooking the ocean. This restaurant was stunning with white tablecloths and beautiful decor. We ordered the catch of the day appetizer which was fantastic! For the main course I had the shrimp in lobster butter and Corey had the Carne Asada. The service was top notch and we left dinner very full!

After dinner we went down to the beach where they had fire pits and chairs set up around them. It was so cozy, we ended up staying there for a few hours just talking and hanging out! Everyone we met whether it was staff or just other travelers, they were all SO friendly.

DAY 2:

On day 2 we were up at 6:30 AM Cabo time. We got dressed and headed back up to the VIP lounge for some coffee and breakfast! We hung out up there for a while just enjoying the warm morning and sunshine! Something we hadn’t seen or felt in far too long! After that we had an appointment for a couples massage. The spa was everything we needed and then some. 55 minutes of pure heaven. Corey and I both left there feeling brand new.

The rest of the day was spent at our cabana on the beach! You could order drinks and snacks right from there and the bed was suspended so it swung with the wind. This was the most relaxed I have possibly ever been! Until Corey discovered the ping pong table and had to challenge me to some friendly competition! ;)

Night 2

On the second night of the trip we took the shuttle up to LaFrida , which is at Pacifica’s sister property, Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach. This was the best meal Corey and I had each had in a LONG time! The menu was so unique and the server did an impeccable job explaining what everything was and how it was made. We both tried Oxtail (something we had never had before) and I can’t recommend it enough. It was incredible. We ended the meal with the funnel cake and the basically had to carry us out of the restaurant! It was that good!

Day 3

The third day was our last full day and we wanted to do everything!! We started out with a wonderful breakfast at Quivira Clubhouse. The grounds at Quivira were stunning! Corey and I both had a big breakfast with eggs, cheese and chorizo that was out of this world!

After arriving back to Pacifica, we spoke with our Butler, and he arranged for us a trip down to another sister site, Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos. There, were were able to hop on and do a boat tour of the Arch of Cabo San Lucas. I love that we were able to schedule everything right from our resort, and we felt so comfortable! We were also able to order drinks and everything at Los Cabos was included since they were a sister property!

Night 3

For our last dinner We went back to Quivira for the steakhouse! I wish I could have eaten this meal over and over again. We started with the sliced tuna wrapped in smoked bacon. Say no more, right? It was as amazing at it sounds. For the main course I had the filet mignon with macaroni and cheese. 20/10- SO GOOD!

After dinner we headed back down to Pacifica and the fire pits. They had a DJ up at the bar by the pool and we saw some friends we had made earlier in the day. We spent the last night dancing and having an absolute blast. There is truly something for everyone at this resort!!

Our stay at The Towers at Pacifica was out of this world. From the Butler, to the VIP lounge. to the spa day, to the incredible service and meals- everything was top notch. We truly felt so spoiled and it was SO hard to leave this place! We can’t wait to go back!!