Whether it’s an overnight trip or a week-long getaway, packing can sometimes be overwhelming! To decide what items or garments to pack, consider the occasion and type of trip you’re taking. Some of my packing tips to share to make travel easier 📩:
Choose a lightweight compact carry-on suitcase. I chose my Delsey Paris Helium Aero 21″ Hardside Expandable Spinner, and I did not have to expand.
Make a packing list – write down everything you need by category and check it off as you pack – clothing, essentials, toiletries, and tech.
Plan outfits in advance and focus on versatile mix-and-matchable clothing, complimentary color palette, light layers, and check venue dress codes. Also, pack shoes that provide versatility, comfort, and style. Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes on the plane to maximize space in your carry-on.
Roll your clothes to save space and help minimize wrinkles, place folded clothes and items on top of rolled items.
Leave the ‘just in case’ items at home to avoid overpacking.
Waste No Space! Fill the gaps with small items that can easily fit into the empty spaces- socks, underwear, laundry bags(lightweight), belts, etc.
Pack travel size toiletries in a hanging toiletry bag. I used my Tumi hanging bag because it’s lightweight, durable, and sleek.
I’ve never used compression packing bags, but that’s up next! I packed my tech supplies and a small cosmetic bag in my LV tote.
Pack your suitcase well and enjoy your journey without worries! And she’s Off✌️✈️.
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You can’t visit Miami without spending a day in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Havana!
Little Havana is a neighborhood in Miami that was home to many Cuban exiles in the 1950s and 1960s after the Cuban Revolution. The historic neighborhood will give you a glimpse into the heart of Cuba- art, architecture, culture, history, music and food!
Located around Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) is the center of Cuban life and the main strip with colorful murals, monuments, Latin-inspired bakeries, bars/restaurants, fruit stands, cigar shops, music venues, and art galleries.
Things To Do in Little Havana…
Start the day with Breakfast or lunch at Versailles Restaurant, a great eatery to try Cuban cuisine and one of Calle Ocho’s most famous and iconic restaurants. Versailles has been named a MICHELIN- recommended restaurant. I tried the croquetas, oxtails with rice and sweet plantains, and a mojito- 8/10. There is also a bakery on site serving Cuban coffee, pastries, desserts, and mini-Cuban sandwiches.
2. Stroll down Calle Ocho and take in the sights…
• Watch the locals play dominoes in Maximo Gomez Park- Domino Park. They gather to smoke cigars, drink coffee and play dominoes daily.
• Admire Cuban art and murals- colorful murals depicting Cuban history and culture displayed on buildings.
• Visit a Cigar shop- Watch the artisans hand-roll cigars in factories… experience cigar rolling!
• Calle Ocho Walk of Fame- A Hollywood inspired walkway honoring Cuban and Latin artists and celebrities.
• Roosters along Calle Ocho- Part of “Rooster Walk”, symbolizes Cuban culture: resilience, pride, spirit of resistance. You may also see live chicken and Roosters running around in the streets.
• Cuban Memorial Boulevard Park- View the monuments/memorials dedicated to those who fought for Cuban Independence. Bay of Pigs Monument honors the Cuban exiles who died during The Bay of Pigs Invasion in 1961, “Brigade 2506”. The names of the freedom fighters who lost their lives in a failed attempt to overthrow Fidel Castro’s regime are engraved on the Monument, and there’s an eternal flame at the top. At the entrance of the park is The Eternal Torch in honor of the 2506th Brigade.
• Sip on delicious coffee at La Colada Gourmet- Art Cafe serving pastries and Cuban coffee, roasted daily. Also very relaxing atmosphere. Tres Leche iced coffee hit the spot, my friend had the hot Tres Leche, which she also enjoyed… Will go back!
• Enjoy live salsa music and cocktails at Ball&Chain; popular venue that dates back to 1935. Restored Jazz Era Nightclub that featured legendary artists like Billy Holiday, Count Bassie, Chet Baker, Louis Armstrong, and Nat King Cole- performed during the 1950s.
Have you been to Miami and did you go to Little Havana? Did you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere?
Save this post📌 for some of my recommendations when you visit Miami, to make the most of your trip to explore Little Havana! It’s a must-visit cultural Experience!
Boarded the exciting AVE high-speed train to Barcelona from Madrid (1st class), approximately a 2hr 30 minute ride. Barcelona is known for its rich architecture, gastronomy, culture and sports.
• Barcelona City Tour – A drive along the old Harbor to the Plaza de Catalunya, the city’s bustling main square.
The city is especially known for its architecture and art. People come from around the world to see the masterpieces of Antoni Gaudi. Antoni Gaudi was an artist and architect best known for his work in Catalan Modernism. Gaudi designed 17 projects in Barcelona and seven of his works were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. His first major commission was Casa Vicens, now a Gaudi House Museum, located in the Gràcia neighborhood. I took a tour of the house/museum and really enjoyed the stunning architecture and beautiful designs. (Gothic and Moorish). His most famous landmark is Sagrada Familia, the largest unfinished Catholic Church in the world, construction is still underway. The facade of the Basilica is beautifully designed and ornate. The design is full of symbolism and references to Christian motifs. You need tickets in advance to see the inside of the church. I found out the hard way, did not get a chance to go inside, but marveled from the outside. It’s highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance.
Soak up the Gaudi architecture:
• Casa Batllo – UNESCO World Heritage Site, another one of Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces, Modernist style is known as the “House of Bones and Skulls”, because the facade on the balconies are shaped like “skulls” and the “bones” shape are supporting pillars. The building is located on Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona’s most eye catching edifice; beautiful at night.
• Casa Mila(La Pedrera), nicknamed “The Quarry” because of its jagged, rocky facade, is also located on the iconic Passeig de Gràcia. This was one of the three residential buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi and the last private residence designed by him.
Other points of Interest –
• Passeig de Gràcia- one of the most iconic avenues in Barcelona lined with high-end shops, restaurants, bars and some of Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces. I had the pleasure to hit up some of the designer stores and make purchases(VAT refund) and it was well worth it, especially because of the VAT refund.
• Stroll Las Ramblas – most famous tree-lined pedestrian street, that is lively with many attractions- eateries, shops, markets, and landmarks.
• Gothic Quarter –
Get lost in the Gothic quarter; narrow, winding alleys and medieval streets in Barcelona’s historic center. There are hidden courtyards and plenty to do and see. You can spend hours wandering the winding streets and marveling at the beautiful medieval architecture, enjoying the cafes, charming shops and eateries.
• Pont del bisbe or Bishop’s Bridge is a Gothic style bridge that connects the Generalitat Palace with the Casa de Canonges across Carrer del Bisbe. You will see lots of people lining up to take pictures of the bridge – great photo op. One of the most photographed sights in the Gothic quarter.
• Barcelona Cathedral – Gothic Cathedral in the historic old town. There is a small square in front of the Cathedral where you will find street performers, vendors, etc.
• Get tatted in Barcelona at Meat Shop Tattoo, very professional and friendly artists; great quality for the price.
• Barceloneta beach – oldest and most popular beach. Spend the morning strolling the boardwalk and enjoying the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. The boardwalk is lined with palm trees, sculptures and bars.
• Try Tapas and Paella …
Three restaurants I visited:
1.) Casa Leopoldo – delicious Catalan food, great service, ambience, decor; highly recommend. Gotta try the Patatas Bravas, Spanish Croquettes, and Oxtails.
2.) CanMarLau Tapas Bar/Restaurant, great late night dining option. Lively atmosphere, great tapas and wine!
3.) Elche Restaurant – Beautiful decor, great service, paella and duck confit were delicious!
The gastronomy scene in Barcelona was truly elevated!
Tour to Montserrat Mountain –
Montserrat is a multi-peaked mountain range near Barcelona, in Catalonia, Spain. The name literally means “serrated mountain “. It is home to the Benedictine Monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat; which houses a statue of 12th century Romanesque “Virgen Moreneta “, known as La Moreneta, Black Madonna in the Royal Basilica.
I enjoyed a thrilling cable car ride up the mountain, 1350 meters up soaking up the scenery. Had the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Llobregat River and Valley, and stunning views of Catalonia’s lush hinterland.
THANK YOU for reading my blog post. There is so much to do in Spain for everyone. I hope that you are inspired to visit and find my tips helpful.
