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Get a Taste of the Arizona Fresh Foodie Trail®
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? The Arizona Fresh Foodie Trail® makes every bite something to savor. Discover the hidden gems and culinary hotspots that make this trail a must-visit for foodies visiting the area. Don't miss out on this gastronomic delight - read the full article now!
The Mesa area is vast, sprawling area that's developing with every passing second, even as you read this article. While I was there it was a unique experience to see the development and land and the area's ability to spread out and have space. Step out on the Fresh Foodie Trail and take a bite at a new adventure!
Driving into Mesa
Drive to Mesa with your own car from wherever you are or you can opt to fly. Mesa visitors flying into Phoenix can easily rent a car from Hertz or Enterprise at the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport. Then you can explore Mesa, Queen Creek, and Gilbert as desired. You can pick up and drop off at the airport so you don't have to drive willy-nilly around town.
San Diegans looking for a close trip can find a foodie haven in Mesa, Arizona. The flight from San Diego to Phoenix takes under 90 minutes, then it's a modest drive from Phoenix into Mesa. Mesa is similar to San Diego County in that it's spread out and covers a large area. You might go from Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, or Queen Creek at any given point, just like you might have brunch at your favorite spot in Downtown San Diego, hike in Torrey Pines, and then drive up north to walk the pier in Oceanside.
Exploring the Arizona Fresh Foodie Trail
Visit Mesa has a full brochure and information you can check out on their website.
Queen Creek Olive Mill
Address: 25062 S Meridian Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
If you enjoy high-quality extra virgin olive oil, then you have to pay a visit to Queen Creek Olive Mill, a blossom-to-bottle agritourism destination in Queen Creek, Arizona. Queen Creek Olive Mill has a radiant rainbow of extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars that you can both sample and purchase. Take the Olive Oil 101 class while you're there to learn how the special process they use to make extra virgin olive oil and they'll also teach you how to correctly taste olive oil, which I found really interesting!
Schnepf Farms
Take the family for peach picking at the Schnepf Farms peach orchards while in season during May. Visit in autumn for The Pumpkin & Chili Party, an epic fall festival.
The Cozy Peach at Schnepf Farms
Address: 22601 E Cloud Rd, Queen Creek, Arizona 85142
Schnepf Farms has been growing peaches for over 50 years, offering a 8 varieties of peaches to the Queen Creek area. Now Schnepf Farms added glamping in restored vintage trailers to its repertoire. Guests can camp in style in one of the trailers, each has its own theme and designated decor.
Agritopia
Agritopia is huge, it's quite impressive. The idea of Agritopia started back in the 1960s when the Johnston family purchased the land and built their home. They nurtured the farm into what it is today, a thriving hub that brings the community together. Agritopia has a residential portion, a farm, Joe's Farm Grill, a coffee shop aptly named The Coffee Shop, and Barnone, which houses a dozen local artisans.
Barnone
Address: 3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, Arizona 85296
Barnone has a range of makers selling their work, from woodfire pizzas at Fire & Brimstone to ice cream at Cream of the Crop. I visited Garage-East for a wine tasting and their meat and cheese board. Sit around the table to chat at this bright wine bar. The wine tasting at Garage East has six wine tasters of your choice; they come in cool little test tubes. Take a moment to savor the art on the walls as you sip your wine.
Hayden Flour Mills at Sossaman Farms
Address: 19101 E Ocotillo Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Hayden Flour Mills is on a mission to bring the art of stone milling to the foreground. Tour the mill and learn more about the ancient and heritage grains. They have a pretty epic shop with items like purple barley berries, gazelle rye flour, pancake mix, emmer farro crackers, and more, so you can get a taste of ancient grains yourself.
Cider Corps
Address: 31 S Robson Suite 103, Mesa, Arizona 85210
Cider Corps, a veteran-owned and family-operated business, has two taprooms in Mesa and Gilbert, Arizona where they sell craft cider and canned cider. Thirsty patrons can come to Cider Corps and order a taster flight to sample a few of their options like the Mango Foxtrot with mango and rosehip or the 40 Myke-Myke, a collab with Myke's Pizza made with honey, as well as ancho and arbol chiles for a spicy kick.
Jalapeño Bucks
Address: 3434 N Val Vista Dr, Mesa, Arizona 85213
People come to Jalapeño Bucks for the bbq and burritos. They have a bunch of burritos to pick from, whether you're into the Green Chili Shredded Beef, Red Chili Shredded Pork, or the Brisket, Bean, and Cheese.
True Garden Urban Farm
Address: 5949 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85205
True Garden Urban Farm is the first and only facility of its kind in Phoenix where they grow living produce vertically without soil or rainfall. Only solar power and water are used. You can buy commercial or residential aeroponic tower farms, seedlings, or take a class to learn how it all works.
Proof Bread
Address: 125 W Main St, Mesa, Arizona 85201
Spare yourself the 11-hour flight to Paris. Instead, you can enjoy a delightful array of pastries from Proof Bread in Mesa, Arizona. So flaky and flavorful! Take a look at their website to learn more. 🥐
Other spots to check out:
The Orange Patch
Address: 3565 N Gilbert Rd, Mesa, AZ 85213
Steadfast Farm at Eastmark
Address: 5111 Inspirian Pkwy, Mesa, AZ 85212
Superstition Dairy Farms
Address: 3440 S Hawes Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212
Vertuccio Farms
Address: 4011 S Power Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212
The Windmill Winery
Address: 1140 W Butte Ave #48, Florence, AZ 85132
Arizona's Fresh Foodie Trail allows travelers to try fresh food from local farms, locally grown produce, wine tasting, live music, agritourism attractions, and everything you need to have an enjoyable time in the Mesa area. Visit Mesa has loads of information on different eateries on the Fresh Foodie Trail so you don't have to spend hours researching destinations, what's there, and why it's good.
If you're already based near Mesa and Scottsdale, then you might have time to pursue, taste, and get to know the nooks and crannies and morsels of the area. If you're a tourist or out-of-towner like myself, then save room because there are a lot of great places to check out. There's a lot to experience.
Traveling to France: Paris Travel Tips
Traveling to Paris is magical. While I live many of my days in Southern California (Conejo Valley, Encinitas, Lompoc) but I've traveled to over 20 countries & I keep finding myself in Paris. Time & time again. I obviously don't consider myself a local, but I know more than the this-is-my-first-time-in-Paris site-seeing tourist or travel influencer. Understand how to not look like a tourist in Paris, because it can keep you safer, make you more knowledgeable, & make you a better traveler. Traveling to Paris is so fun. Consider these France travel tips.
Paris Tips
Charles de Gaulle can be so confusing so don't feel discouraged if it takes over an hour to find your way out. At least you're in Paris! Consider these best Paris travel tips. From the Arc de Triomphe to the Eiffel Tower to the Notre Dame, your trip to Paris will be full of wonder. If you are visiting Paris for the first time, make sure to do some research, particularly on how not to look like a tourist.
Reserve your tickets ahead of time whenever possible.
Three facts about the writer, Carmen: I always have fresh eucalyptus hanging in the shower. One time I spent the night at London Gatwick Airport. Out of all the cities in the world, I've explored Paris the most.
Three facts about the writer, Carmen: I always have fresh eucalyptus hanging in the shower. One time I spent the night at London Gatwick Airport. Out of all the cities in the world, I've explored Paris the most.
Paris Travel Tips
Over the years I've spent several weeks in Paris. My cousin lives in Paris, so I spent some time staying with her in her cool but small studio in the 15th arrondissement. Some days are jam-packed with the most touristy best places to visit in Paris, while some days I sleep in, listen to true crime podcasts in Bibliothèque Vaugirard as I organize emails & submit invoices to my social media & blog clients. Now that I've been to Paris several times & have spent many weeks in the City of Lights, these are my biggest tips on how to not look like a tourist in Paris, France, consider these the do's & don'ts of visiting Paris! Read these France travel tips.
Related reading: How to Eat on a Budget While Traveling Abroad
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| How to Not Look Like a Tourist in Paris, France: Do’s & Don’ts of Paris. Consider these France travel tips. |
1. Don’t Speak Extremely Loud, Do Be Aware of Your Volume
One of the first France travel tips is to mind your voice volume. This is applicable wherever you travel. I’ll never forget the American male tourist practically yelling in the metro station that he couldn’t understand the map. His booming voice echoed through the metro, implying his tourist stats to the two hundred or more people through the station. While I completely understand the frustration, the metro can be overwhelming for even a Paris novice, but he created an easy target on his back to get pickpocketed. Travel tips for France: Not only is it courteous to be aware of your volume, but you might blend in more or be less noticeable to pickpockets, scammers, etc.2. Don’t Dress Like a Tourist, Do Dress More Parisian
Traveling to Paris doesn't have to be scary. You can tell when someone is a tourist because French people are dressed nicely, probably commuting to work or heading to dinner with friends, but as a tourist, we’re dressed for comfort, you don’t have your entire wardrobe to choose from. Travel tips for France & anywhere: I’m a tourist, a traveler myself, but I try to blend in when I can. While this isn’t 100% here are some things to keep in mind: Parisians often wear neutrals. Parisians wear sneakers over the standard tennis shoe or running shoe. Think Stan Smith Adidas - here's a real photo from Paris of three types of white shoes. Look French, that's one of the easier France travel tips.
Related reading: 12 Drool-Worthy Food Photos from visiting Paris, France
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| Sacré-Cœur (Sacre Coeur) has a lot of tourists |
3. Don’t Walk Around Naked, Do Wear Headphones
When you visit Paris, look around & you’ll see loads of people wearing their little white iPhone headphones or the occasional person with a wireless Bluetooth headphone, either way, many Parisians, especially the younger generation wear headphones while walking around town, commuting via metro or bus. Visiting Paris? Travel tips for France: You’ll blend right in if you listen to a downloaded podcast on Spotify or look at your phone's map to figure out the best places to visit in Paris, just do it with your headphones in. Sometimes I write notes on my phone, it helps me remember details & it looks like I’m a cool Parisian texting all my Parisian friends. Travel tips for France on how to not look like a tourist in Paris? Headphones or earbuds!4. Don’t Always Speak English, Do Learn Some French words - Even a Word or Two
Traveling to Paris? Learn some French words if you're visiting Paris! I took three years of French in high school since my family lives in France. It was always my goal to communicate with my cousins, but alas, I’ve forgotten most of the verb conjugations & all the accents: accent ague? Sometimes Fred & I can have an entire interaction in our butchered French. Let go of any language shame - just try. I literally pointed to a baguette & said “un croissant, s'il vous plais.” twice while the cashier was like…. “uh…c’est un baguette.” Like I know what it is, my brain messed up. Don’t worry, you’re going to feel silly, but you can’t improve if you don’t try. If anything, you'll learn travel tips for France from this post.
Related reading: How To Use Google Flights to Find Cheap Flights
5. Don’t Forget to Greet People, Do Say Your “Bonjours” and “Bon Soirees”
French culture means never not saying goodbye. In the USA, we often have “ghosting” culture where you leave without saying goodbye, you just kind of evaporate, disappear. Not when you're visiting Paris, honey. That’s seen as extremely rude. You’ll almost always be greeted when you enter and establishment & you’ll be wished a good day when you leave. For example, when you enter a boulangerie (a French bakery), the cashier will often say, “Bonjour Madame, Bonjour Monsieur.” You should always respond back. My travel tips for France: I usually just say exactly the same thing back to the person. After you order and are about to leave, they usually say “Bonne journée” if it’s day time - which means "Have a nice day." In the late afternoon & evening, many people will send you off with a “Bonne soirée” - basically "Have a good evening." Again, I simply say my pleases & thank you (si’l vous plait & merci) & then regurgitate what they say to me. At our flat in Paris, every time anyone walked passed you, you’d say “bonjour” or at least some acknowledgment or their presence. At my apartment in the USA, you can walk past your neighbor of 3 years without a hello, without even knowing their name. While walking the halls, this While I’m pretty introverted, it’s just different here & you have to push yourself out of the comfort zone. Traveling to Paris is an experience like no other.
Related reading: The Beauty of the Notre Dame in Paris
6. Don’t Go Without Internet, Do Get a SIM Card
You can't go traveling to Paris without a SIM card. I've done the bulk of my travels without the internet, simply relying on public Wi-Fi whenever possible. Some cities are easier, but in Paris, unless you hop inside a McDonald’s or Starbucks, you’ll be hard-pressed to find free internet. Plus you risk someone stealing your information, passwords, and potentially hacking you. I know, I had no clue about any of this either. I was blissfully logging into every free Wi-Fi. You can easily find SIM cards in Paris at the little phone, gadget, internet kiosks throughout the city. We purchased a 20 gig SIM card for 25 Euro. It allowed us to view maps on our phone without busting out a huge I’m-a-tourist paper map.7. Consider Getting the Paris Pass
Save money on top tourist attractions! The Paris Pass allows you to check out some of the top Paris attractions all on one digital pass! Enjoy entry to over 75 top things to do in the city such as iconic landmarks like the Louvre, the Musee d'Orsay, and the Arc de Triomphe.
Top Things to Do in Paris for First Timers
Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Louvre Museum to see the Mona Lisa, Musée d'Orsay, Latin Quarter (The 5th Arrondissement),
Are you traveling to Paris soon? What are your France travel tips? Are you visiting Paris? Do you have travel tips for France?
Are you traveling to Paris soon? What are your France travel tips? Are you visiting Paris? Do you have travel tips for France?
Life in Quarantine as a San Diego Blogger + Social Media Manager
Hi. I'm Carmen, a San Diego blogger & a social media manager/consultant for small businesses, brands, & even influencers. I blog for fun & I do social media optimization services for work. Learn more about me here. I've lived here most of my days, making the San Diego lifestyle the only one I really know. San Diego County is huge; there's an ever-changing flow. There's always a new craft brewery or trendy dinner spot to check out. Oh, but those were the good old days before the quarantine.
As with many people in the county (& world), we're quarantined. Even though we're used to sunny days, San Diego bloggers don't let the rain get them down. So what do San Diego lifestyle bloggers do when under quarantine? Is it business as usual or have things changed?
Well, things have changed. That's safe to say.
Losing clients & work
I am a San Diego blogger, yes, but I also work remotely full-time as a social media manager for small brands & businesses in San Diego County & beyond. I perform social media optimization services, write blog posts, product descriptions, whatever people need. Two of my clients reduced my hours completely until further notice, leaving me out of the bulk of my work. Find out more about me (Carmen) & my blogging + career background. I even found a new client a few weeks into quarantine & then two weeks later they said they couldn't fit me in their budget.And I understand, if a business is shut down altogether, they might not have the budget for social media optimization services. Other clients are impacted by closed offices, reduced work, closed restaurants, & probably a lot more! San Diego businesses & San Diego bloggers alike are reeling from the COVID-19, trying to pick up their life, earn some money, move forward.
But I also found work too! I found a 20 hour per week minimum with a one-woman social media agency. I’m working with wealth management & finance, & often feel out of my league. But I’m l learning every step of the way. It inspires me to create better content, have better procedures when it comes to my own clients, & to take breaks! After all, from Downtown SD to Pacific Beach to Escondido, San Diego has a lot of beauty.
Go to my Contact page to get in touch with me.
Interested in social media management, help, or consulting? Fill out my Discovery Questionnaire & I'll get in touch with you within 48 hours.
Read my yearly freelancing anniversary updates from Years 1, 2, & 3!
Things to do near LA, California: Central Perk Cafe From Friends - a Warner Bros Studio Tour
This impacts the entire community
I've worked from home for just about three years as a San Diego Blogger, social media manager, & travel writer. I talk about my 2-year anniversary in this post - the highs & lows in this post, the changes in blogging to influencer marketing, particularly Instagram influencers. And if you want to go way back, I delve into my one-year anniversary in this blog post. As someone self-employed, I've had my fair share of client losses over the years but this impacts more than just me. It impacts clients, friends, family, the whole community, state, the whole globe is united in how much we're impacted.
Get creative when taking photos at home
Since we're self-isolating, you're not supposed to go out & about to the beach, having a full-on brand photoshoot. With that in mind, many San Diego bloggers out there can't shoot photos for content, unless it's at their home. San Diego bloggers & lifestyle bloggers might feel strained when it comes to creating content. Use simple backdrops to make your photos more interesting: your countertop, your wood table or floor, any kitchen tiles, a blanket. Get creative! If you're one of the San Diego travel blogs, look through older photos & start using storytelling to share your previous imagery. Shop some of my favorite blogger & influencer essentials on Amazon.
Buy affordable props to jazz up your desk, room, apartment, house
What if you don't have a cute workspace or home for photos? I know the feeling; I live in an apartment so I can't change the brownish-beige carpet or the dark brown countertops, so I have to use props. Sometimes I use a chic faux sheepskin rug to style my photos as a San Diego blogger. If you're filming videos or need a larger backdrop, you can buy a large wallhanging for under $20. Stay home & buy some affordable photo props online. Check out this blog post for the full breakdown.
Restaurants, Coffee Shops, What to See: Things to Do in Oceanside, California
Need blog help, social media optimization services, content writing, etc?
It just so happens I'm open & looking for some new clients! Hey, if you need social media optimization services, blog help, please take a look at my client testimonials. If you're interested in potentially working together, fill out this super quick form so I can find out what you need & how I can help & I'll email you within 48 hours.San Diego bloggers and businesses are suffering, but they're trying to make the most of the situation in whatever way possible. Desperate for some blog post ideas?? Learn how to find blogging inspiration & blog ideas. Some companies have gotten creative on how to make sales & stay afloat during these trying times. I saw a pizza place offering do-it-yourself pizza kits to make at home with the kids. Lost Abbey, a San Marcos, California-based brewery offers free delivery in North County San Diego for orders over $50. Many of your favorite San Diego restaurants offered to go for pick up orders. Get the scoop on How to Get a Brand Collaboration + Instagram Collaboration.
San Diego Blogger
I'm a San Diego foodie lover & enjoy dining on whatever the city has to offer. There are so many great locations & destinations to check out in SoCal. Sometimes small businesses aren't looking for any type of paid work, they aren't looking to hire me for social media work, but that's right come in as a San Diego blogger & influencer. I have a blog, social media channels, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TripAdvisor, you name it. If you're a small business, restaurant, or even a PR company, feel free to contact me for upcoming events, openings, product launches.
San Diego brands and Businesses I Work With:
I'm a freelance writer for Locale Magazine, check out my online article about the Best Places to Watch the Superbowl in San Diego. Locale Magazine is a lifestyle magazine with markets in Orange County, San Diego, and Los Angeles. I rode to feature articles that will be coming out in the June San Diego Locale Magazine issue. I haven't received word on if it will be in print or how the formatting will be because of the whole quarantine scenario. Head over to my Contact page if you want to email me.I do social media consulting & management for clients such as Body by Drea. Drea is a Carlsbad-based trainer ready to teach you proper form & Interesting workouts to keep you motivated. She hired me for social media optimization services. With Drea, I worked on optimizing her YouTube: creating video titles, writing video descriptions, video tags, creating video cards and end screens. We worked on the growing following, her website traffic, her Instagram. I have quite a lot of experience working with local businesses as a San Diego blogger & social media manager.
And of course, there is Integrity Counseling Group, a therapy practice with offices in Carlsbad, San Marcos, & the Mission Valley, San Diego. They focus on working with people, teens, & couples in need of therapy. That includes therapy for depression, trauma, sexual addiction, drug addiction, etc. I've worked with them since 2018 on a social media consulting & management level, social media optimization services such as going over their newsletter to make improvements.
Here's a testimonial from my client!
"I have so much more clarity about the direction we are headed in--and we are already seeing results! I implemented her SEO strategy a few weeks ago and in the past week we have started to see more referrals through Google. Most importantly, these are quality referrals that have booked with us right away and been eager to pay our full fee. Carmen keeps me accountable to my goals and also provides feedback on my marketing. I send her 90% of our content before it goes out, and she always thinks of ways to make it better."- Cory Anderson, Integrity Counseling Group.
Are you a San Diego blogger who needs help?
If you're a San Diego blogger that needs some general help (content creation, blog writing, captions, Pinterest, etc.) feel free to reach out & fill out this brief form. Tell me your goals, questions, fears, & your budget. Your budget is important. Depending on your finances, I'm available for either a 30-minute or 60-minute call (smaller budgets) to offer overall suggestions, tips, guidance. If you have a more steady budget, I'm available for management services where I execute the work myself, whether that's creating fully optimized Pinterest pins or posting Instagram Stories or writing blog posts or other content. Read my blog post about time management tips for freelancers, remote workers, & bloggers.Hire me - San Diego locals & nonlocals
If you're interested in my services as a San Diego Blogger or for my social media optimization services, fill out my quickie questionnaire or shoot me an email with your answers. I work with local business & nonlocal businesses. Fun fact, I've never met Body by Drea even though we've worked together for almost a year. That's the nature of being a freelancer. I work with businesses in San Diego County, Southern California, & pretty much anywhere, One client was located in Michigan. Whether you're looking for more Facebook followers, influencers for a food event, or captions for a luxury jewelry company, I can assist you.Visit my Contact page to get in touch with me.
How are you doing? How have you been staying positive or creative during such a stressful time? Leave a comment!
El Cielo Winery Resort on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, Ensenada, Mexico
El Cielo winery resort on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe in Ensenada, Mexico looks like the scene from a movie. Green grass & flat terrain surround viñedo El Cielo with rolling mountains in the background. Kids run around the vineyard playing tag & laughing, their parents watching from a distance. A bachelor party sits around a table at restaurante El Cielo, Latitud32, sipping Mexican wine. Peacocks strut their stuff. The world feels happy, the evening air feels cool. This is a fraction of Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. It's not a far drive from the United States or San Diego.
If you're interested in tasting Mexican wine, make your way down the Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. What to do? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? It's a splendid spot to explore a piece of Mexico. The Valle de Guadalupe wineries offer plenty of grape varietals. Get ready to learn more about vinos Baja California from El Cielo winery resort by Karisma. Searching for Valle de Guadalupe hotels? Check out this page of all the properties in the area!
Address: Carretera El Tigre-El Porvenir KM 7.5 Parcela 117 El Porvenir, 22755 Valle de Guadalupe, B.C., Mexico.
Read my other blog posts about Mexico:
A Mini Guide to Tijuana's Breweries, Craft Beer, & Tasting Rooms
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El Cielo Winery Resort by Karisma
We ventured to El Cielo Winery on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, a hot spot for Mexican wine & definitely one of the popular Baja California wineries. We only stayed for the afternoon but you could make a week-long trip on Valle de Guadalupe wine tours & eating all the delicious fresh food & goods sold in the area. Restaurante El Cielo has fresh seafood & other unique dishes to keep your mouth watering.El Cielo Winery & Resort feels like a sanctuary with rolling views & peacocks strutting around. The property even has two lakes. Viñedo El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe buzzes with people young & old. We visited in February & it was totally popping. People sipped wine, ate food, & enjoyed everything the resort has to offer. You can even shop for El Cielo vinos online! It's the perfect spot to stay if you want to go on a wine tasting.
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| Exploring El Cielo Winery on Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe. |
Hotel El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe / Hoteles en Valle de Guadalupe Ensenada
El Cielo winery resort has more than wines & wine tasting. Located on the Wine Route of Ensenada, Mexico, the resort has a range of cool rooms such as the Junior Suite, Master Suite, Owners Suite, & the Residence Master Suite which is 2,669 sq. feet / 248 sq. meters. Smaller suites usually come either with a king-sized or two queen beds. Enjoy room service or head down to the restaurant.
Bigger suites have king-sized beds, maybe even a dining room, fireplace, terrace, & kitchen. Go to their website to check the latest price & availability. Wake up & take in the stunning views from your room, then get ready to explore more of what Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe & restaurante El Cielo has to offer. I didn't get the chance to stay their or even see the rooms but the photos online look blissful. Stay in a remarkable room with cool architecture & awesome views paired with a Baja California wineries right at your doorstep. Take a look at the Karisma Hotels website for more information. Are you a room service fan or would you go outside to eat?
Bigger suites have king-sized beds, maybe even a dining room, fireplace, terrace, & kitchen. Go to their website to check the latest price & availability. Wake up & take in the stunning views from your room, then get ready to explore more of what Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe & restaurante El Cielo has to offer. I didn't get the chance to stay their or even see the rooms but the photos online look blissful. Stay in a remarkable room with cool architecture & awesome views paired with a Baja California wineries right at your doorstep. Take a look at the Karisma Hotels website for more information. Are you a room service fan or would you go outside to eat?
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| Peacocks at El Cielo Winery in Ensenada, Mexico. |
Go on a Tour of El Cielo Winery Resort
The tour was in Spanish so I didn't understand much - I'm studying Spanish but it's not the level of complexity where I can understand wine terminology. That said, you can do a tour of El Cielo winery Valle de Guadelupe. Learn all about the El Cielo vinos Mexican wine so you can figure out if you want to buy a bottle to go. The wine cellar is underground with minimal lighting, so keep that in mind if you have any sensitivities. The wine tasting is a unique experience!
Restaurante El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe: Latitud32 & Polaris
Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe is known for its food, so whilst at El Cielo, eat at Latitud32, a fusion of Baja-Yucatán cuisine & Polaris, which they call baja-avantgarde cuisine. At Latitud32, you try their regional seafood dishes such as the Grilled Octopus or Black Mayan Ceviche. Don't eat seafood? They have vegan options as well.We hung out at Latitud32 outside by the fire pits. Order a beer, wine, or beverage from restaurante El Cielo. We had some kids with us too so you can get juice, soda, water. Perfect place to get some grub after checking out El Cielo winery/viñedo El Cielo.
Gift Shop for El Cielo Vinos, Mexican wine
The gift shop has plenty of gift options. You can buy El Cielo vinos, handcrafted jewelry shaped like grapes, t-shirts, bottle openers, & other goodies. The gift shop is quite large with an assortment of options depending on your style. I was debating buying one of the grape shaped pieces of jewelry (there were bracelets, earrings, necklaces) & couldn't decide on anything, but wish I had bought one!
I tried the El Cielo vinos, browsed the gift shop, awed at the peacocks, & thoroughly enjoyed my brief encounter at El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe. It topics such a fresh experience. I've explored multiple cities in Mexico from the Tijuana craft beer taprooms to Queretaro in Central Mexico, & I always find something new-to-me to appreciate about the beautiful country of Mexico.
I tried the El Cielo vinos, browsed the gift shop, awed at the peacocks, & thoroughly enjoyed my brief encounter at El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe. It topics such a fresh experience. I've explored multiple cities in Mexico from the Tijuana craft beer taprooms to Queretaro in Central Mexico, & I always find something new-to-me to appreciate about the beautiful country of Mexico.
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| Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe, Ensenada, Mexico. |
Valle de Guadalupe Wineries
El Cielo Ruto del Vino is a must-visit but what else can you do while you're there? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? All wine fans should consider a tour of the Mexican wine varieties at Valle de Guadalupe wineries. I mentioned El Cielo vinos but you can check out the other wineries in the area. Might as well, you're already there! There are plenty of spots to sip a glass of wine. Guadalupe Baja California has a lot of wine options.Valle de Guadalupe Hotels
Some of the top Valle de Guadalupe hotels include Hacienda Guadalupe Hotel, Encuentro Guadalupe, Hotel Boutique Valle de Guadalupe, Oeno Wine Resort. Are you traveling with family, for a large bachelorette party, or just on a romantic weekend trip in Ensenada? Do a bit of research to find Valle de Guadalupe hotels that suit your needs. Savor boutique hotels with excellent vistas & amenities. Click here to take a look at the hotels in the area. If you prefer Airbnb, you can get up to $55 off your Airbnb stay if you sign up with this link.Viñedo El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe: Mexican Wine, Food, & Good Views
When you picture top wine destinations did you picture Mexican wine? If not, add vinos Baja California to your list. El Cielo Valle de Guadalupe has everything you need for a vacation. Eat at restaurante El Cielo. Where do you see yourself visiting along Ensenada, Mexico's Ruta del Vino Valle de Guadalupe? Que hacer en Valle de Guadalupe? Would you order room service?Head outside of the United States to enjoy a glass of wine at El Cielo Winery Valle de Guadelupe. Add Guadalupe Baja California to your list.
Their address is: Carretera El Tigre-El Porvenir KM 7.5 Parcela 117 El Porvenir, 22755 Valle de Guadalupe, B.C., Mexico.
What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days: Visiting Berlin, Germany
Got 3 days in Berlin? There is so much that you can do.
I flew from Barcelona to Berlin for $29. How could I resist visiting Berlin at such a bargain? I ended up visiting Berlin for one week, so I have a good idea of how you can condense what to do in Berlin in 3 days.
About me: I write about travel, food, drinks. I've worked with tourism boards such as Visit Long Beach, Visit El Paso, The French Ministry of Agriculture, Visit Reno Tahoe, & Discover Torrance. To learn more about the campaigns I've been a part of, read my Press + Media page.
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| The view of the Tiergarten from the Victory Column in Berlin, Germany. |
Visiting Berlin
Where is Berlin, Germany? Are there tips on what to do in Berlin in 3 days? How about the best Berlin photo spots? This post is ideal for anyone visiting Berlin. Keep reading or scroll to find what you're looking for. Traveling somewhere soon? Check visa requirements!
So, Where is Berlin, Germany?
You might be wondering where is Berlin exactly? In relation to the rest of Europe & the world, where is Berlin, Germany? That's a good question - it's good to be inquisitive. Berlin is the capital of the country of Germany. It's the biggest city in Germany in both area & population, located in the eastern part of the country.
Related reading: How To Use Google Flights to Find Cheap Flights
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| Tips for visiting Berlin: go to Brandenburg Gate. |
3 Days in Berlin Itinerary
72 hours is enough time to visit some of the best places in the city. Try to knock as much as you can on that first day. Three days pass by quickly, so go to the well-known, high-rated places mixed with some of your bucket list items.
Brandenburg Gate
If you have 3 days in Berlin, Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin's most iconic landmarks. The history dates back as far as 1788 when it was constructed. In 1961, the Berlin Wall was inaccessible to locals & visitors since it was in an exclusion zone. After the fall of the wall, people celebrated at Brandenburg Gate & it remains a symbol of a reunited Berlin to this day.
East Side Gallery (former Berlin Wall)
Searching for what to do in Berlin in 3 days? You must visit the East Side Gallery, a portion of the Berlin Wall that still exists. This 1.3-kilometer piece of the former Berlin Wall is completely covered in murals & art. Some of the art is moving & poignant. Some of the art is happy & fun. East Side Gallery is easily one of the best Berlin photo spots with the range of art that covers it. Check out the Berlin Wall Museum. *One of the top Berlin photo spots
Related reading: Learn About the Cologne Cathedral in Cologne, Germany
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Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
Also known as the Holocaust Memorial, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, stands to commemorate & remember the victims of the Holocaust. Designed by architect Peter Eisenman & engineer Buro Happold, the memorial contains over 2,500 concrete pieces arranged in a grid, in a somewhat undulating pattern, rising & falling depending on where you walk. I must say I was completely moved at this memorial & took a somber minute to honor the Holocaust victims & survivors. This should go without saying but please be respectful.
Tiergarten
The Tiergarten is easily one of my favorite things to do in Berlin. The inner-city park feels like a tranquil haven within the city. Make sure to stop by if you're pondering what to do in Berlin in 3 days. A must-see for those visiting Berlin, great Berlin photo spots.Alexanderplatz
Spend a few hours exploring Alexanderplatz, a public square, one of the essential stopping points for those visiting Berlin. Alexanderplatz feels like a lively downtown area with its multitude of shops, restaurants, cinemas, within walking distance. Alexanderplatz is located close to the TV Tower, Berliner Rathaus, Berlin Cathedral, Museum Island, Brandenburg Gate, & more.
Hackescher Markt
If you want to go for a stroll, do a bit of shopping at local boutiques, then you need to tour Hackescher Markt.
Checkpoint Charlie
Located on Friedrichstrasse, Checkpoint Charlie is a historic stop for travelers who make a trip to Berlin. Checkpoint Charlie was set up as a border crossing between East & West Germany during the Cold War, named by the Western Allied forces.
Mall of Berlin
Some people sight-see, some people shop. The Mall of Berlin is a massive shopping center in Berlin with around 300 shops for your purchasing pleasure. Shop your heart out, scout out a souvenir or two, or grab dinner in the food court (that’s the option I went for). It was scrumptious! If you need some supplies (clothes, etc.), this might be the place to stock up.
Charlottenburg Palace
Plan a visit to the rococo Charlottenburg Palace, built for Sophie Charlotte, Queen consort in Prussia.
Berlin Television Tower
The Berlin Television Tower is kind of like the North Star; you can see it from anywhere & it almost becomes a navigation tool. "Ah yes, I can see the Berlin Television Tower - we're getting close." The Tower stands 368 meters tall. On a cloudy day, the Tower becomes obscured into the skyline & looks something to the effect of Jack's beanstalk once his magic beans sprouted into the clouds.
Take Me to Church
Top churches in Berlin include Kaiser-Wilhelm Memorial Church, St. Hedwig's Cathedral, St. Mary's Church, Berlin Cathedral, St. Nicholas Church, Maria Regina Martyrum, and more.
Museums: What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days
Berlin is a city rich in history. A trip to Berlin isn't complete without a museum visit. I could drone for hours about the museums in Berlin. There's even an entire Museum Island dedicated to museums in Berlin. Here are some of the museums to check out while visiting Berlin or if you're searching for what to do in Berlin in 3 days.
Head to top museums such as Pergamon Museum, Neues Museum (New Museum), Altes Museum (Old Museum), Alte Nationalgalerie (Old National Gallery), Jüdisches Museum (Jewish Museum Berlin), Gropius Bau, Museum für Naturkunde (Museum of Natural History), Deutsches Technikmuseum.
You can visit the Reichstag Building, Charlottenburg Palace, Topography of Terror, Jewish Museum Berlin. Take a look at the Visit Berlin top museums page to look at the range of museums. They go into detail about the top museums in Berlin including art museums, child-friendly museums, photography, design, and film museums, natural history museums, and more.
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| Posing at the Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin (Berlin Botanical Garden). |
Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin (Berlin Botanical Garden)
Man oh man do I love a botanical garden & the Botanischer Garten und Botanisches Museum Berlin is no different. If you can't think of what to do in Berlin in 3 days, add this to your list. I was impressed with the sheer size of the place & it felt like not many people were there. The Tropical Greenhouse is worth a visit as one of the top Berlin photo spots.
Food
Go on a food tour. Check out restaurants on Yelp or Google and save some on your Google Maps. You can also reserve your spot at a restaurant ahead of time in case they need reservations.
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| Roamers Cafe in Berlin, Germany. |
How to Eat on a Budget While Traveling Abroad
There are plenty of ways to save money while you're traveling. Eating out three square meals each day in Berlin can be costly. If you're staying at a hotel, take advantage of any hotel breakfasts. If you're renting a place with a kitchen, stop by a local grocery store to grab a few groceries. Read my blog post for many more tips & tricks on How to Eat on a Budget While Traveling Abroad.
Time to visit Berlin! So did you find the answers to your questions? Where is Berlin Germany? What to Do in Berlin in 3 Days? What are the best Berlin photo spots? Comment your best tip or if I missed something!
Things to Do in Oceanside, California: Restaurants, Coffee Shops, What to See
The City of Oceanside feels relaxed while simultaneously evolving toward a metropolitan city in San Diego County. I remember riding the train into Oceanside on my way down south from Orange County. It was a casual beach town, not quite as pricy as other San Diego County beach towns like Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, La Jolla, or Pacific Beach. It was known for its laidback, lowkey vibes like the rock n roll hairstylist dude. Have fun in Oceanside CA North County with lots of family-friendly and fun things to do. Go to Oceanside Harbor, Tyson Street Beach, The Oceanside Museum of Art, Harbor Beach, the Surf Museum, Sunset Market on Pier View Way, Heritage Park Village, and Museum. It's a great place year-round.
Oceanside, California has museums, art, biking, and sightseeing spots. Eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Take in the great views and many ways to relax, whether you want to watch the sunset or swim at the beach.
Top destinations include Oceanside Harbor, Oceanside Pier, Guajome Regional Park, & more. There's a bit of something for everyone, from surfing & sea lions to live music. You might also want to check out Things to Do in North County San Diego, California as well as 8 Things to Do in Encinitas, Ca. Only an hour from San Diego, Oceanside is an exciting city to visit, full of things to do and fun places to enjoy. Have you visited or lived in Oceanside California? What is your favorite restaurant, surf spots, sandy beach location, nightlife spot, nearby town?
About Carmen
Thanks for finding my blog! I'm a San Diego blogger who has lived in Southern California for most of my life. I write about travel, food, drinks. I've worked with tourism boards such as Visit Long Beach, Visit El Paso, The French Ministry of Agriculture, Visit Reno Tahoe, & Discover Torrance. Read my Press + Media for more campaigns I've been a part of. Click here to learn out more about me & my travel history. Or you can follow me on Instagram. Scroll down for all things Oceanside CA. Southern California has a lot to offer.Related reading: Coffee Shops in Carlsbad, California
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| Take a look at the murals at Artist's Alley in Downtown Oceanside, California. |
History of Oceanside California
O'side has a long history! Its history begins in San Luis Rey Valley, which was rich in agriculture-rich. It was first explored by the Spanish Explorer Portola in 1769. By 1882, they laid a railroad from Los Angeles to San Diego through Colton, Temecula, Fallbrook, and down the coast. Oceanside is about 45 minutes away from Downtown San Diego.
Downtown Oceanside
Oh, Oceanside CA. I used to walk along Downtown Oceanside to the beach from my social media internship office. There was an acupuncture place, a health food store, a burrito shop. They're all still there. Now the city of Oceanside feels as though it's geared to become the next hotspot for tourists and San Diego bloggers to get content. A new oceanview apartment pops up blocking the view of previous apartments. There's a coworking destination. A tequileria replaces a craft beer gastropub that wasn't even 4 years old. Oceanside CA is growing.
Related reading: Lake San Marcos Marina - what to do!
Whether you're looking for Oceanside restaurants, coffee shops, outdoor activities, or a unique activity, you'll find many things to do in Oceanside CA as it becomes a bustling part of North County San Diego.
Other things to do in California: See Central Perk Cafe from Friends on a Warner Bros Studio Tour.
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| Jalapeno & cauliflower mac & cheese from Local Tap House & Kitchen, Oceanside restaurants to try. |
Visit the Top Gun House
You can learn more about the Top Gun House here!
Downtown Oceanside Restaurants
One of the top things to Do in Oceanside CA is to eat with a view of the shoreline. Take notes for some of my favorite downtown Oceanside restaurants. Oceanside CA has no shortage of food options and wine tasting. Adventures galore await in Oceanside, from day trips to San Diego to craft beers to cultural events. You can find paid parking and free parking, depending on where you're at. This coastal town features stunning views throughout the year, from summer to winter.
Beach Break Cafe (Beach Break Café) - Beach Break Cafe's coffee cake is next level, bonkers delicious.
Masters Kitchen and Cocktail - Spice up your Mondays; Masters Kitchen and Cocktail has happy hour all Monday!
Local Tap House & Kitchen - The jalapeno & cauliflower mac & cheese from Local Tap House & Kitchen (also known as LTH) tastes incredible.
Panca Peruvian Cuisine & Rotisserie *now closed) - Fred & I went to Panca Peruvian Cuisine & Rotisserie years ago when I worked nearby by during my first social media job.
Other eateries include Hello Betty Fish House, Naegi, and more.
There's no shortage of Oceanside restaurants and dinner options. Browse Yelp, TripAdvisor, or Google if you have specific needs: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, keto, etc.
There's no shortage of Oceanside restaurants and dinner options. Browse Yelp, TripAdvisor, or Google if you have specific needs: vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, keto, etc.
Related reading: What to do at North City San Marcos
Oceanside Coffee Shops
These are some of my personal favorite Oceanside coffee shops but there are even more that I haven't listed.Banana Dang Coffee - Banana Dang Coffee has coffee, a solid smoothie bar, & Wi-Fi so you can sip n work.
Revolution Roasters - Revolution Roasters is one of the most popular of the Oceanside coffee shops; the steady arrival & departure of people feels regular like an airport. Good coffee, tasty pastries, nice space.
Breweries and Craft Beer
A trip to Oceanside wouldn't be complete without a pint of craft beer. There are over 200 breweries in San Diego County. In the city of Oceanside, there's Black Plague Brewing, Belching Beaver Oceanside, Oceanside Brewing Company, Legacy Brewing Company, Craft Coast. If you head to Tijuana, Mexico, read my mini-guide to Tijuana's breweries. What your favorite brewery in Oceanside CA?Oceanside Sunset Market and Oceanside Farmer's Market
Farmer's markets are one of life's simple joys. The Oceanside Sunset Market takes place Thursday evenings from 5 pm - 9 pm. It's the destination to be. You'll find food, shopping, entertainment. The place gets packed. People bring their babies, kids, strollers, dogs. Teens hang out amongst friends. Couples walk around on a date night. It's one of the most quintessential things to do in Oceanside CA. There's also the Oceanside Farmers Market (Oceanside Farmer's Market) which happens in the day time! |
| Enjoy the ocean view from the Oceanside Fishing Pier. |
Oceanside Fishing Pier
You can't visit the city of Oceanside, California without walking near the historic Oceanside pier. This is one of the most classic things to do in Oceanside. You used to be able to eat at Ruby's Diner at the end of the pier; Ruby's was a 40s-style diner with American classics like fries, burgers, & milkshakes. So sad to see it close, it was such a great destination. Oceanside Pier is iconic. The Oceanside Pier is extremely popular amongst both locals & tourists. Once it opened back up after COVID, people enjoy walking & fishing on the wooden pier. The surrounding beach area also has lifeguard tower, picnic tables, and vendors like hot food booths to grab a bite.
Mission San Luis Rey
The Mission San Luis Rey has self-guided museum tours, and the San Luis Mission Rey mission gift shop. They even host workshops & retreats. The historic Mission Church is a National Historic Landmark, built in 1815. If you like missions, check out La Purisima Mission State Historic Park in Lompoc, California. Have you been to San Luis Rey Mission? You could visit the National Audubon Society as well.Ride the Coaster or Amtrak
You can take public transportation from or to the city of Oceanside; you can also ride it down to San Diego. These are excellent modes of transportation near the pier if you don't have a car. As I mentioned earlier, I used to take the train up & down quite frequently. You can take Amtrak all the way up to San Francisco if you're looking for a trip idea.
City of Oceanside Street Art, Murals, & Graffiti
Both downtown & the City of Oceanside have street art, murals, & graffiti to view. While you're near town, be sure to check out Artist Alley to support local San Diego businesses & artists. Learn more Artist Alley Oceanside on their Facebook page. Pictured above is a mural by BB Bastidas at the Pour House Oceanside; there's a different mural there now. Experience some Oceanside street art, click here.Go to the Beach
It should go without saying, but you should check out the beach & ocean views whilst visiting a city literally named Oceanside. Popular Oceanside beaches include Oceanside City Beach, Tyson Street Beach, Oceanside Harbor Beach, South Oceanside Beach. I could spend the day by Oceanside Pier, soaking in the melodic sound of the waves, reading a good book, & sticking my feet in the sand. Tyson Street Beach, also known as Tyson Street Park, is within walking distance of the Oceanside Pier. Enjoy the wildlife, cruise the sandy beaches, dine at a nearby restaurant.Traveling to San Clemente? Learn more here for things to do in San Clemente, CA.
Oceanside Harbor Village
After Oceanside Pier, you can always head on over to Oceanside Harbor Village to get a true sense of the seaside town. You can just stroll along the harbor, browse the little shops, or even grab a bite to eat from one of the local restaurants. Obviously, fresh seafood is a good option if you're up for it. It's a small community but worth a visit if you're looking for things to do in Oceanside, California.Buena Vista Audubon Society Nature Center
The Buena Vista Audubon Society Nature Center, located at 2202 S. Coast Highway Oceanside, CA 92054 is a popular spot. Their programs help foster knowledge and appreciation for the plants and animals that make up the natural ecosystem of our community.
Going on a trip to Lompoc, CA? Click here for things to do in Lompoc.
Other Activities and Things to Do in Oceanside, CA
The city of Oceanside contains a range of things to do. It all depends on your mood & your budget. Do you want to be outside? Are you hungry for some grub from popular Oceanside restaurants? It's your call. There are outdoor activities like whale watching tours, indoor skydiving, surf lessons. It is a destination spot! You could head to the museums such as the California Surf Museum & Oceanside Museum of Art. Oceanside CA has a lot of beach activity too.Other things to do in Oceanside, California include eating lunch or brunch, grabbing a drink at one of the eateries or at The Rooftop Bar, taking in the arts and culture, savoring the amazing beauty of the area, swimming at the beach, going on a hike, staying at a hotel,
Go to Oceanside Harbor, Harbor Beach, the Surf Museum, Sunset Market on Pier View Way. Drive Coast Highway (Coast Hwy). You can rent a bike and spend the morning enjoying the view of the ocean, beaches, people fishing or surfing. There are skate parks, trampoline parks, and plenty more. From wine to events to art galleries to trails to picnic views, visitors could spend a lot of time exploring Oceanside's wonder.
San Diego County is huge. What are your favorite Oceanside restaurants? Can you recommend any cool Oceanside coffee shops, either in downtown or anywhere within the city of Oceanside? What's your favorite thing to do in Oceanside CA? Leave a comment! :] Lots of family-friendly and fun things to do in North County.
San Diego County is huge. What are your favorite Oceanside restaurants? Can you recommend any cool Oceanside coffee shops, either in downtown or anywhere within the city of Oceanside? What's your favorite thing to do in Oceanside CA? Leave a comment! :] Lots of family-friendly and fun things to do in North County.
There are plenty of Oceanside attractions, hotels, and fun ways to spend a weekend trip for both tourists and local residents. This coastal city does get busier, as expected, during the spring and summer months due to its beach proximity and tourist attractions. One of the best things to do in Oceanside CA is to take it easy. You could eat some tasty food for fish, enjoy the coastline or marina, stroll the farmers market, or head over to the Pacific Ocean to walk around the Oceanside Harbor. Learn about the Oceanside Harbor Restaurants here. Really, you can make your own self-guided tour filled with beach activities, art, local fun, a leisurely stroll of the coast, surfing, fishing, and plenty of places to watch the sunset views.
More recently I am constantly impressed by how this city is growing toward more metropolitan status but without losing what makes it Oceanside (and North County). What are your favorite things to do in Oceanside CA?
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