Just like that, August has come to an end and the dog days of summer are over. Pumpkin spice lattes have made their return and flannel season will soon be upon us. August held some amazing experiences, both here at home and finally getting back on the road. Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store.
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I had the opportunity to volunteer with Life Rolls On, an organization that provides surf camps for people with disabilities and let me tell you, it was one of the most fun days I’ve ever had at the beach. I had an amazing time with new friends from across the east coast for a day of surf and sun. Everyone involved in Life Rolls On, from athletes and families to volunteers had nonstop smiles the entire time. It was my first time at this great event and it certainly won’t be the last.
The other thing that happened in August? I finally got back on the road! I just got back from Mexico and had an absolutely fantastic time. This was my second time visiting Mexico and just like my first trip I got countless warnings from people about how dangerous Mexico is, and really that is a huge misconception. I never once have felt unsafe and also just like my first trip everyone I encountered was warm and welcoming, in fact Mexico has some of the most genuinely nice people I’ve ever met. I’ll have more in depth posts on my time in Mexico but here’s a quick look at what I did.
My first trip I explore Mexico’s culinary traditions at La Villa Bonita cooking school in the tiny town of Tepotzlan followed by a few days in Mexico City. This time around I got a glimpse of Mexico’s proud cowboy heritage at Rancho Las Cascadas, located just an hour north of Mexico City in some amazingly beautiful farm country. The ranch sits on the rim of a small, lushly green canyon; the serenity only broken by the sounds of songbirds and the three waterfalls located on the property. What really draws people to the ranch is the opportunity to horseback ride through the gorgeous countryside and experience an authentic side of Mexico far from the mega-resorts of Cancun and Cabo.
After a couple days as a charra I made my way to San Miguel de Allende,a gorgeous colonial town that has been named the best city in the world by none other than Travel & Leisure . The hilly cobblestone streets date back to 1542 and ornate doorways reveal beautiful courtyards filled with galleries, shops and amazing restaurants; and rooftop terraces offer up gorgeous views of the surrounding valley and the pink spires of the La Parroquia church.
Also in San Miguel I got the chance to meet up with a few of my travel blogging friends, Donna of Nomad Women and Tom and Tiffany of Expat Epicureans . Donna has been a long time resident of San Miguel while Tiffany and Tom have recently moved to the nearby town of Queretaro. One of my favorite parts of travel blogging is having friends across the world and I’m grateful that these three met up with me to share their love of central Mexico.
Things I’m Loving
I have friends over for a paella party every summer and this carbon steel paella pan cooks up a perfect paella.
Need a paella recipe to go with that paella pan? I’ve used this one to rave reviews for years.
I’ve been on the hunt for a sports bra that is comfortable, keeps the girls in place and doesn’t take the skills of Houdini to get out of. The Be Bold bra by Athleta is all that and is cute to boot.
Do you have any fall travel plans? Please share in the comments!
Andi says
Another great month, you are living the life! Mexico is not on my radar, and maybe it should be.