Your Ultimate Guide to Mexico City!

by admin | May 31, 2021 | Travel

The afternoon I landed in Mexico City (CDMX), I never imagined that it would be my first of three trips in just a month. Typically, when I travel, I visit one gorgeous place after another, taking in everything, loving it, but leaving it with just the colorful memories made. I love leaving a destination with just a taste in my mouth, I rarely ever return,( not that I wouldn’t want to)  mainly to save time for new adventures and destinations.

“I found more in Mexico City than just your iconic museums, vibrant culinary scene, or city rich in culture and heritage, that’s for sure.”

Also, after planning, I was told how dangerous and polluted CDMX was, how a blonde like me would be kidnapped in broad daylight, never to be seen again. I think too many people watch fictional movies. After visiting, I just laugh at those people’s worries.  I genuinely felt safer in CDMX than I do in some parts of LA. Of course, there is an unavoidable reality of petty crime here, like any large city, but if you keep vigilant and use common sense, you shouldn’t worry. I would also definitely not let it deter you from a visit. It’s wise not to wear flashy clothing or jewelry. Leave the Rolex and necklaces at home, people. Keep your bags closed, wallets zipped up, and leave nothing in your back pockets. All the usual stuff you would do while traveling in a big city. Every place I visit touches me somehow, but this place and experience is one I will hold on to forever and smile while thinking back on it all. I found more in CDMX than just your iconic museums, vibrant culinary scene, or city rich in culture and heritage, that’s for sure. I found a special connection and some magical familiarity with the city and with *him*.

“CDMX is one of the top cities in the world for food lovers and top restaurants.”

Mexico City (CDMX) is one of the oldest and largest cities in the Americas. It’s full of history, charm, beauty, and the most fantastic food scene ever. If you’re a foodie like myself, then you’ll indeed be in Heaven. CDMX is one of the top cities in the world for food lovers and top restaurants. The food is probably my favorite part. It makes a joke of LA. (sorry)! Below is everything you need to know, from where to eat and drink, to the best neighborhoods to stay, to the fantastic things to see and do while there. Bear with me here and enjoy everything CDMX. First things first; How do you get there? Well, depending on where you are flying from, many airlines have direct flights. Most major cities have direct options with Delta, Aero Mexico, American Airlines, and budget airlines such as Viva and Volaris. From LA and Miami, it’s about 3.5 hours, Dallas, 2.5, DSM, 6.5, and London 11 direct on British Airways. The airport is MEX, Mexico City International, or Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juarez. It’s a large airport, with plenty of amenities, and upon landing, customs is quick, which is nice.  Remember to keep ahold of your landing card for exiting.

When is the best time of year to visit? The best time to visit would be the dry season which is December to April. Although the winter can be chilly, I would say End of February to April are great months to visit. Warmer and more crowded, but it adds to the vibrancy and atmosphere. At the end of May, it starts to get quite rainy, but showers don’t typically last all day.

How many days does one need? That’s so hard because I have spent over two weeks there and still feel like I have a lot to see. I would give yourself five full days to see the top attractions, get out of the city one day, and experience the unbelievable culinary scene. If you only have a long weekend, it’s enough to wet your whistle and leave you wanting more. It’s a massive city with so much to see. The museums alone could take you weeks to get through. There are over 150 of them!

What areas and hotels should you stay in? I stayed in Polanco, and I loved it and felt it was the best area for my taste and budget. I split my vacation between two hotels I loved, The Orchid House Hotel and The JW Marriott. The Orchid House Hotel is a small boutique hotel full of, you guessed it, Orchids, loads of them! The rooms were cozy, authentic, and full of plants which I loved. It felt very green and sustainable. The JW Marriott is one brand I love, and they never miss a mark. The detail to service here, the huge room, and the views were superb, especially from my shower. I loved the goodies they left me as well. Who wouldn’t be thrilled with Clase Azul?  JW Marriott also has a great pool and sun deck. The locations of the two were perfect as both were in the heart of Polanco, and you could easily walk to restaurants and cafes from both. Also, both were super professional and Covid compliant. It was a more than pleasurable experience at both.

“The Avenue is lined with some of the top trendiest restaurants in Mexico City. It’s very lively and vibrant.”

Both hotels were very different, but equally impressive. I typically always book a smaller boutique hotel on a stay to get a more authentic experience and great detail to customer service. Then I book hotel brands I love and have loyalty to, like JW Marriott.

Ok, back to the neighborhood, Polanco is the upscale, prestigious area of Mexico City. It’s close to some of the most famous museums, hosts high-end brands for shopping, and its renowned street Avenida Presidente Masaryk. The Avenue is lined with some of the top trendiest restaurants in Mexico City. It’s very lively and vibrant. Polanco is one of the safest areas in all of Mexico City. There are some beautiful parks there as well, with great cafes around them. Lincoln Park is so cute. I loved it there and found it worth it to stay in the area.

If you want to save a little money on food and accommodation, I would recommend La Roma or La Condesa, which is trendy, hip, full of hot nightclubs and bars. This area is also safe and great for someone’s first trip to Mexico City. You won’t get bored staying in these areas, and they also have some wonderful and cheap street food. La Roma is colorful and coined the “Hipster Heart of Mexico City.” It’s is filled with art deco mansions that have beautiful detail and colorful street art. It’s a nice area to walk around and has some fantastic restaurants such as Contramar, a must-visit while in CDMX.  La Condesa is another gorgeous area with high-end shops, beautiful architecture, lush green parks, and classy nightlife. You can’t go wrong staying in this area either. Stroll through Parque Mexico and enjoy people watching and the beauty of the park.

What is some general advice? (MISC)

Brush up on your Spanish or learn basic key phrases. It’s appreciated and super helpful when trying to order, ask a question, or negotiate a cab fare. It’s good to know how to ask for directions or how much things are. It’s also polite to use basic words like “good evening,” “Hello,” “Please,” and “Thank you.” If you don’t have time, a language app can be super helpful.

Most places take credit cards, but it’s good to have cash to pay for things like street food, museums, or other tourist attractions. It’s also wise to carry small bills in case they don’t have change. Do not exchange currency at the airport, or you will be ripped off. Learn from my experience. Use ATMs or go to a local cash exchange for a better rate. Mexico City is very cheap compared to places like LA or NYC so keep that in mind. Tipping is 15 percent, not the standard 20 like in the USA.

Do not drink the tap water, or you could get sick.

If you are someone who suffers from allergies, then bring medicine. My allergies were insane while I was there, and I was sneezing 100 times a day. I’ve heard many people complain about how bad their allergies were there.

Use Uber as much as you can. It’s very cheap. If you can’t, then remember to negotiate the taxi fare before you enter. Also, find them at taxi stands, not just off the street.

Be mindful of pickpocketing and be smart about the purse you choose or where you carry your wallet or cell phone. Know the area you’re going to before and how safe or unsafe it is. Like every city, there are not so secure areas with more petty crime. Be mindful.

Mondays tend to be the day that many museums and attractions are closed, so keep that in mind. Teotihuacan is open on Mondays though if you do find yourself there on a Monday.

Now, let’s get into my favorite part of Mexico City! The amazing cuisine! 

There are so many excellent restaurants and cuisines. I mostly ate Mexican because it’s my favorite, but we also switched it up occasionally, having seafood and sushi as an option. I’m celiac, so I must have food without gluten, so my options were a little more limited, but I still had an unforgettable culinary experience. Most restaurants had options for non-gluten eaters like myself. So, no worries about any dietary restrictions. They accommodate well.

“I don’t eat meat, but the fish at Dante was gorgeous, and the cocktails even more impressive. Try the oysters, ceviche, or the tuna tostadas here.”

Some of my favorite restaurants were; Dante, An Argentinian steakhouse with dim lighting, fun artwork, a buzzing atmosphere, and incredible food. I don’t eat meat, but the fish at Dante was gorgeous, and the cocktails even more impressive. Try the oysters, ceviche, or the tuna tostadas here. Dante was one of my favorite spots and a particular spot where I had one of the best first dates of my life. 11/10 recommend. I recommend more if you’re a spicy food lover as they do it well here. Enjoy.

Another great restaurant is ANIMAL Masaryk. The food is beautifully presented. It’s young, glam, hip, and the interior designs are just divine. I loved the energy here. It’s very LA. It’s full of beautiful models and influencers, so if you’re a single guy, you’ll enjoy this place. The drinks, again, are also great.

“H Bar was very dark with ambient lighting and a cool and sophisticated crowd. I enjoyed it there.”

Two restaurants I went to that are owned by the same people and are delicious are Contramar and Entremar, similar menus but different locations and energies. I liked both. I think I liked Contramar a little more due to the lively and packed outside seating area. The table matters, so make sure they give you a good table.

If you want something great for lunch or a more casual dinner, then Bellopuerto is terrific. It’s great for tostadas and ceviche. They have a great cocktail list and a cute inside. It’s more relaxed but still has fantastic food and décor.

Another place I loved and went to my first meal in CDMX was Harry’s Prime  on Presidente Masaryk. The oysters were incredible. The service was phenomenal. They treated me like a princess, and they gave me the cutest blue cotton candy after my meal. They have a bar in the back called H Bar, and it’s super cool. H Bar is very dark with ambient lighting and a cool and sophisticated crowd. I enjoyed it there. It’s upscale, but the prices were so fair.

Another great spot we ate at, with adorable vibes and a cute back terrace, was La Unica. It was definitely a romantic spot. There are exquisite flavors in the fresh seafood here, taste from Baja to Nuevo Leon. It’s a great date spot.

Another delicious lunch spot I visited was called Makoto. It had unbelievable sushi and sashimi. We were lucky enough to go on a date where they were showcasing a 300 lb. tuna fish. They did the entire presentation in front of us, and everyone ate amazing sushi and sashimi from it. The presentation was impressive, and the food even better. It’s worth the visit with or without the show, but I would see if they happen to be doing it while you’re in town as I believe it’s a once-a-month event. Brassi is another great spot for lunch or dinner, it’s a French menu with some Mexican flare. They have some superb fish dishes and the tuna tar tar is amazing, a little spicy, but delicious. 

“We were lucky enough to go on a date where they were showcasing a 300 lb. tuna fish. They did the entire presentation in front of us, and everyone ate amazing sushi and sashimi from it.”

If you want a great rooftop with unique cocktails and views of the city, I would check out Supra or Toledo. The restaurant at the top of St. Regis is also great, and they even do a Veuve champagne brunch on Sundays with excellent Mexican dishes and some fresh and delicious seafood. It’s a swanky spot you’re sure to enjoy a Sunday in the sun with a few too many glasses of champers.

A few other great restaurants are Jaleo for casual, but amazing Spanish Tapas El Japonez for great sushi with a beautiful terrace. Also, if you’re vegan or just enjoy great food that doesn’t taste plant-based, try Plantasia in La Roma. It is vegan, the décor inside is adorable and makes you feel as though you’re in Bali, and the drinks and food were divine. It was also super cheap.

“Fresh, authentic, and brimming with flavor,” Quintonil is another foodie’s delight and a true gem in Mexico City.

For more upscale, try Pujol for beautifully presented food. Pujol has been listed as one of the top 50 restaurants in the world in 2019. It’s fancy and delicious and an authentic culinary experience. Another noteworthy restaurant that has like, Pujol, made top 50 lists is Quintonil. “Fresh, authentic, and brimming with flavor,” Quintonil is another foodie’s delight and a true gem in Mexico City.

For Breakfast, try Café C on the southern side of the city for a change of neighborhood and super cute dishes. They do all sorts of unique designs in their lattes and acai bowls. It’s an influencer’s dream there. Another cute café that’s an influencer or blogger’s dream is Isabella Café Condesa. It’s girly and pink and has adorable drinks. Everything inside reminds you of a themed café in Japan. They serve lunch food as well. Don’t forget to take photos here. If you’re looking for more than just fun photos, other cafes for great food are El Cardenal, super authentic and very popular for locals. You will get a truly authentic experience here. Eno in Polanco is another great breakfast spot with a few locations and is ran by the same chef as Pujol. If you’re looking for a traditional American breakfast, this is your spot. El Campotoro, with only two tables inside and most of the seating outside, this spot is still charming and brings so much happiness to its customers. You’ll enjoy a great meal here. As far as bars and clubs, I didn’t go out much due to Covid restrictions. Still, some good bars are Gin gin, Departamento, Xaman Bar, Limantour, Pata Negra, Tokyo Music Bar, Julz Basement, Café Paraiso, Terrazas. Another thing for tourists to do if they love authentic food and drinks would be to do a street food tour or Mezcal tasting. I didn’t do this due to my dietary restrictions, but I’ve read great things about it. You can book them online for reasonable prices, just compare companies as there are many on offer.

Now for the top things to see and do in Mexico City and Beyond;

You must head downtown to El Centro. (downtown) This section is where you’ll find many of the top attractions.

‘I would have a coffee or juice across the street on the 9th floor of the Torre De Latin America for a fantastic view of the Palacio and the city below.”

In downtown, your first stop could be Palacio de Bellas Artes. Palacio de Bellas Artes takes the trophy for stunning architecture and beautiful landscaping. It is quite a romantic little spot with a beautiful park around it and a garden in front. The inside is a museum full of stunning murals, some by the famous Diego Rivera. To me, this is one of the most beautiful buildings in Mexico City. I would have a coffee or juice across the street on the 9th floor of the Torre De Latin America for a fantastic view of the Palacio and the city below. The Torre is one of Mexico City’s most widely recognized skyscraper.  It also holds a 360-viewing restaurant platform at the top. Next to the Palacio de Bellas Artes is the Palacio Postal aka Palacio de Correos de Mexico. This is their main post office, but truly such a mesmerizing display of architecture inside. It reminded me of a very European design. I, for some reason, thought of the Titanic inside while looking around. You need just 5-10 mins inside, but it’s undoubtedly worth peeking inside since you’re already right there, and it is gorgeous and unique, especially for a post office.

“This is their main post office, but truly such a mesmerizing display of architecture inside. It reminded me of a very European design. I, for some reason, thought of the Titanic inside while looking around.”

There are gorgeous and very Europeanesque type buildings all around that area. If you walk around the post office, there is a unique blue-tiled building that is a restaurant and great for photos. I sat in the windows here and got some cute pics. The whole vibe reminded me of being in Lisbon, Portugal, as many buildings there are like this. There is such a European influence in some of the architecture here, and I love it. If you dropped me off in Mexico City blindfolded and then told me to guess where I was upon seeing it, I would have a tough time deciphering where I was.

If you continue down the street about 5 or 6 blocks, you will run right into the Zócalo, aka Plaza de la Constitucion. This is the main square in Mexico City. Here you will see a gigantic Mexican flag wavering over the square. You will see the historical, iconic, and beloved Catedral Metro (Spanish name). The Cathedral was built between 1573 to 1813. It has so much history, design inspiration and is truly one of the most notable buildings in Mexico City. There are also crypts underneath you can tour if you’re into that stuff. I wouldn’t miss this building.  I like it because I love the gothic style of architecture. In the Zocalo, you will find The National Palace. Since 2018, it is the official home of the president of Mexico. The Zocalo is the center of the government and is a popular place for people to gather for rallies, protests, and anything political. On September 15, every year, the president of Mexico comes out to perform the Grito de Dolores to the crowded plaza. September 15 is Mexico’s Independence Day, no it is not Cinco De Mayo like everyone thinks, ha-ha, that was just a victory of the Battle of Puebla.

“It is a truly historic site being excavated, and it is said that The Aztecs believed it was the center of the universe and was a very sacred spot. “

A block away from the square is The Templo Mayor (Spanish name). These are ruins of the old Aztec temple. It is a truly historic site being excavated, and it is said that The Aztecs believed it was the center of the universe and was a very sacred spot.  These ruins were only found in 1978. There is now ruins and a museum there that holds artifacts and pictures that give a good look into how life was during the Aztec period and living in the ancient city of Tenochtitlan.

After leaving the Zocalo, you could head to Chapultepec Park, a beautiful park in the middle of the city that reminds me of Central Park in NYC. It’s 1,600 acres, the largest park in Mexico City, and even has a castle on the top of the hill that is stunning and has amazing city views.

“It’s great to get away from the skyscrapers and city and come for a relaxing and more chilled day here within nature.”

Inside the park, you will come across the National History Museum, a part of the castle (which is gorgeous),  the Museum of Modern Art, and the Rufino Tamayo museum. If you continue to explore the park, you can find a small lake to paddle boat and canoe. There are two cute restaurants in the park, one with a lake view. I opted to set up a picnic in this park as it’s so beautiful, and on a nice day, it’s so relaxing and pleasant. It’s great to get away from the skyscrapers and city and come for a relaxing and more chilled day here within nature. 

If you take a little stroll down the Reforma, one of the main roads in Mexico City, you will come onto the gorgeous National Museum of Anthropology. The museum has two gigantic floors of high-quality exhibits. I would allow a few hours here, at least. This is one of Mexico City’s most famous and visited museums. It is the one museum I could go inside during Covid and explore. That being said, all should be open now. This museum has a gorgeous water fountain display outside and has a room with photos of excavations around Mexico and Latin America which I found so fascinating. It’s a must-see if you’re into ruins and prehistoric works and artifacts.

Another famous and popular museum is The Soumaya museum which is the most visited and hosts over 66k works. It has a unique shape on the outside and is great for photos. Museo Jumex is an art museum. It’s a private art collection museum and has works from Warhol to Hurst to Gursky. It’s right next to The Soumaya, so easy to check out if you have time. The outside is excellent too.

If you’re an art lover like myself, and also love Van Gogh, then check out “Van Gogh Alive” experience. It’s a small museum with digital viewings of his work. It’s a pretty special place and you only need about an hour. The main exhibit is just one grand room with numerous screens of various sizes to view his work and his story. The scoring (music) that goes along with it is just magical. It’s sophisticated, enthusiastic, and at times filled with depth and sadness, but very moving and beautiful. Check it out!

‘The scoring (music) that goes along with it is just magical. It’s sophisticated, enthusiastic, and at times filled with depth and sadness, but very moving and beautiful.”

“Coyoacan is magical and vibrant and means “The place of Coyotes.” It’s a very historic and charming area.”

Another museum you can’t miss is the Frida Kahlo Museum on the Southside of the city in the Coyoacan neighborhood. The Frida Kahlo museum is a stop if you’re into her very moving and interesting story and like her work. You can truly see the pain in this women’s portrait. If you aren’t entirely familiar with her story, google it, and then take a trip to the museum. It’s worth the 12-dollar admission fee, and after that, you can walk the streets of Cóyoacan with beautiful gardens and courtyards, cute squares, brightly colored colonial homes, and a famous market with unique and authentic street food. Coyoacan is magical and vibrant and means “The place of Coyotes.” It’s a very historic and charming area. If you love museums and want even more than I listed, Mexico City has over 150 museums and art galleries, more so than anywhere else in the world. You will be in utter historical bliss being here. You will need months to see it all, but there is a museum or gallery for all tastes and interests.

“This is where the Aztec temples of the sun and moon are, and the whole place is just so old and sacred.”

Another incredible and spiritual place that I think is a must-visit is The Teotihuacan Pyramids, about an hour outside of the city. This is where the Aztec temples of the sun and moon are, and the whole place is just so old and sacred. I loved walking around here and exploring even though it was March and the heat was blazing. I am really into history and temples, though, so for me, it was so worth it all. Another cool experience is waking up super early and coming here to ride on Hot Air Balloons above the Pyramids. I’ve not done this, but I have had friends do it and said it was a magical experience that they would surely do all over again. I certainly wouldn’t miss this spot as it was one of my favorites. You can do a cheap day tour here or have your hotel hire you a driver for the day. It’s cheap and easy to get to and safe there.

One last fun thing you can do is visit a market in Mexico City; numerous ones sell colorful and cute items. You can haggle with them on price, but remember these people work hard and don’t earn top dollar so keep that in mind when you argue over a few bucks. You can get all sorts of lovely items and gifts here. Be mindful of pickpockets here, but other than that, most markets are safe and fun and great to do for a couple of hours in the afternoon.

Now a few bonus things you can do if you have the time and want to explore a little more of Mexico and want to get away from the city;

If you’re an adrenaline junkie or feeling like a daredevil, then why not go skydiving at Skydiving Cuautla Yes, I said, and yes, I did it! I did it on a total whim when someone just sent me a reservation without asking much what I thought. It was a blast, and I will do it again for sure! If it’s you’re first time, ask for Danny to be your tandem, he’s the best. I’ve dived with him twice now and he’s incredible!  Cuautla is about 2 hours south of Mexico City, the grounds are nice, simple, and the staff is incredible and super helpful. Skydiving Cuautla will make the whole experience unforgettable, fun, and comfortable. I recommend!

“Skydiving Cuautla will make the whole experience unforgettable, fun, and comfortable. I recommend!”

Another thing to do outside of the city that you could combine with skydiving is visiting Las Estacas. It’s a beautiful nature park with water so clear you can see the bottom. Las Estacas reminded me of swimming in some of those magical cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula. Pure beauty! There is a little river you can swim, snorkel, raft, or paddleboard on. It’s filled with so much nature, animals, and greenery. It is magical. There are also pools, picnic areas, camping, and glamping. We opted for the glamping experience, and it was enjoyable. We had an amazing time there. It’s best to go during a weekday to beat the crowds. One night here is enough, and as I said, you could even go skydive in the morning and then go here in the afternoon and check in for the night glamping.

“Las Estacas reminded me of swimming in some of those magical cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula. Pure beauty!”

All in all, Mexico City was truly an amazing city that I fell in love with. It’s not often I repeat the same place over and over. It’s also not often I go to a city and see it as a place I could live. Mexico City had that for me. It had everything I would want in a city and to me, the lifestyle there is lovely. I cannot recommend it enough to visit. You will undoubtedly fall in love with it as I did! Have fun and enjoy!

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Beirut and Beyond.

by | Jan 10, 2020 | Travel

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Beirut and Beyond

Where is Beirut? What are the top things to see in Lebanon? The top things to do in Beirut? When is the best time to visit Beirut? What should you wear in Lebanon? Is Lebanon safe? Is Beirut safe? I will go over the top things to see and do in Beirut and in Lebanon. I’ll also be going over the best time to visit, what to wear, and what to expect. I will discuss the best way to fly to Beirut, the top hotels in Beirut, and the best restaurants in Beirut. I will be covering all things Lebanon and Beirut. This will be your best Beirut blog.

 Perched on The Med Sea, North of Israel is Beirut, Lebanon. Dubbed as the Paris of the middle east, a city full of vibrancy and coolness. A real East meets West vibe. New and old. Everyone told me not to go, how dangerous it was. How there was and is a revolution going on. How I need to cancel my trip etc. etc.

Well, I’m here to tell you that I had a blast in Beirut, and I will definitely go back to visit more of Lebanon. Beirut IS safe! The revolution was also peaceful from what I saw and experienced, and I was right down in the square and walking around where everyone was. It was pretty cool to see and fun. Children and people dancing, music blaring, people speaking out, and having a voice. While there is always a lot of negatives with these types of events, I felt like the people were really voicing what they think they deserve. It was a historical event I won’t ever forget being a part of. Lebanese people are so friendly. I even ventured out of Beirut a lo,t and again, had no issues at all. I went to the Baalbek region of Lebanon, which was a “do not travel” on the State department website, and still, it was one of the most beautiful places I’ve been.

The food and wine are also so incredible in this region. I feel bad that Lebanon has such a reputation. If you went there, you would see it’s a lot of media sensationalizing and small areas of concern. There are some areas in the rural parts with poverty and refugee camps, but again, no issues. It was very eye-opening to see.

Beirut reminded me of a mix between Dubai, South Beach, Nice, and somewhere middle eastern. It sits on the Mediterranean, so it really had that South of France kind of vibe. It’s a great city. There is a lot of great restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs as well. This is a city you will not be bored with, that’s for sure. Lebanese food has also quickly become one of my favorite cuisines as well. It’s delicious.

To get to Beirut. I flew Middle Eastern Airlines directly from London. I had never flown them before, but they were great.  I stayed in the fantastic Four Seasons Beirut. It has a perfect location right on the bay. I would, for sure, add Beirut and Lebanon on your travel list. There is so much beauty in this country. Beauty, kindness, and history. Go and see for yourself.

Below I will put my top ten recommendations while visiting Beirut and Lebanon. I suggest giving yourself at least 3 full days, but 5, if you can, to really see everything worthwhile, while also having a little time to relax and chill and just enjoy the city.

1.    Stay in The Four Seasons. It’s right on Zaitounay Bay and the chic downtown area of Beirut. You can walk to all the attractions from this hotel while seeing all the great restaurants and museums. The best way to see a city is just to start walking. You will see so much new and old in the area. The Four Seasons is a beautiful property with views of the city one way and the bay and sea the other. The rooms were spacious, and the balcony was great for sweeping views of the bay and sea. I wrote a comment card for the maid service.  I have been to some immaculate hotels with great staff, but this staff really went above and beyond. With the details of their service and cleaning, it was great. It was really appreciated. The breakfast was incredible and had so many options. Our server was also so helpful and courteous. My favorite thing about this hotel is its first-class staff. You will really enjoy staying here, it’s a beautiful property and has a fantastic rooftop pool and restaurant. It was closed when we were there for construction, but the photos of it look like it’s quite the spot to be on a beautiful sunny day in Beirut. Ash and I also got some great Middle Eastern-inspired massages in the outstanding spa. It was nice to be able to relax after a long day tour to Baalbek. Again, this area outside of the hotel reminded me of the Dubai Marina area. Very modern and clean and delicious restaurants across the street.

2.    Visit Pigeon Rocks, aka Raouche Sea Rock or Rock of Raouche. You can walk there from the bay, but it’s a long walk. I suggest you get a cheap Uber as we did, to save some time. It’s the one attraction that’s a little far to walk to. Uber’s here are very cheap and safe, so getting there will be no problem. Pigeon rocks are in the Raouche in Western Beirut or South of the Corniche. They are two limestone rock formations in the sea that will make you feel like you’re in Greece or the Algarve. They’re beautiful and a sure staple of Beirut. Tourists flock here for the iconic “Beirut” selfie. You can even take a little boat for cheap down there and swim as well, just be careful. You can also haggle the boat trip price, but they start cheap and are cool to do for an hour of your day. The morning there is really lovely.

3.    Check out the many museums. Beirut has many excellent museums. There is the National Museum of Beirut, MIM Museum, Sursock museum (great for photos outside on the staircase), Beit Beirut, and the Archeological Museum of Beirut. If you have to choose, I would visit The National Museum, MIM, and Sursock.

4.    Go and visit one of the oldest cities in the world! Byblos, aka Jbeil. Byblos is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, dating back as far as the year 5,000 BC. It was inhabited by many civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Phoenicians. It was first excavated in 1860.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s so charming. You really feel like you have stepped back in time. There are cute cafes dotted along the old town near The Crusader Castle. Walk down to the historical Harbor where you will have some of the best Lebanese food of your life while taking in views of the sea, coastline, and small fishing boats. It’s a lovely gem on the Mediterranean. You can walk around and see most of this charming and historical city in just a few hours. I wouldn’t miss this on your trip.

You can get a private Uber there and back like Ash, and I did for about 35 bucks each way, or you can make a day tour of it, which may be better as then you can see the next things I’m about to put on my list. The Jeita Grotto and Harissa. There are packages to see all three for around 100 USD, including lunch. The link for all 3 is HERE. We would have done that option; however, we only had a few hours before our flight and not an entire day. If you decide not to do a tour and go in an Uber, then perhaps go late afternoon where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset and have a nice Lebanese dinner.

5.    Visit the Jeita Grotto. It is called the Jewel of Lebanon, and truly majestic. It is one of the most famous caves in the world and was even in the running to become one of the 7 Wonders of the World. You cannot take photos inside the grotto to preserve it and for safety, but this is still not a site to be missed. The limestone caves consist of two upper and lower, with a boat ride included in the lower. They are separate, but interconnected and run about 9 km long. There is a cable car at the beginning that is quite impressive as well. Please don’t let the “no photos” deter you from seeing this magical site. You’ll need about 2 hours at the caves. I recommend doing a tour that adds in Byblos and stopping by Harissa and visiting the Statue of the Virgin Mary for panoramic views of the bay below 600 meters above sea level.

6.    MUST DO! I would say the highlight of my trip to Lebanon was visiting The Roman ruins of Baalbek. I did a small group tour on Viator to Baalbek, Anjar, and Ksara Winery. Ash and I were going back and forth on this as we read so many things saying it wasn’t safe to go to that area, and even had it as a level 3 warning. We consulted with the concierge at the hotel, and they said it was safe to go and that they obviously wouldn’t send their guests if there was a threat. We decided to book, and I’m so glad we did. We had a tour with just two other kind people. The tour guide, Frankie, I think his name was, was so lovely and knowledgable. He was a local of the region and knew everything about it. The link for our tour is here. It was amazing! Baalbek Small Tour. (I get no kickback for bookings)

It was crazy that when we went to Anjar, we were just 3km or 5 miles from the Syrian border. Anjar and Baalbek are two Roman ruins. Baalbek especially was one of the most, if not the most impressive Roman ruins I’ve ever seen. It is world-famous and rightfully so.  If you have been to Rome, I would say this is up there with the Colosseum. It’s enormous and has been preserved very well. The details in the stones are so intricate. It’s amazing how they built this.

We stopped at a fantastic lunch place as well and got to try all of the local food in the region. The region is really known for its food. I felt incredibly safe the entire time, with zero issues. Everyone we met along the way was so lovely. We were in the region of Hezbollah. Also, you can buy shirts and flags, etc. Obviously, we didn’t, but it was interesting to see and be in an area where they reside and still seeing how peaceful it seemed. It’s very odd sounding, I know. We drove by some refugee camps, and I couldn’t help but feel so sad for them, but it’s nice to know that Lebanon is a safe haven for them.

Lastly, we stopped at Ksara winery. We had a short tour of the winery and cellars and got to do a quick tasting. It was really lovely, and the staff was excellent. I would highly recommend this tour or any tour there. I wouldn’t attempt to take a rental and go yourself. It’s good to have a local and someone who speaks Lebanese Arabic. Do not miss this tour as Baalbek was indeed something special! Do not let the warnings or media scare you out of going. As the Four Seasons said, they wouldn’t be sending guests if it were dangerous. Make time for this. The tour was around 100 bucks, including lunch and transport. Enjoy it! You’ll learn so much and get epic photos.

7.    Walk around downtown Beirut and Hamra. There are little cute churches and mosques to see. I would take a stroll down to Place de Martyrs. This is where some peaceful protests were happening. We then walked over to Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque. It’s huge and awe-inspiring. From there, you can see the Roman baths and the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Saint George. Beirut is totally safe to walk around, and Ash and I saw all of the sites while also walking through the Beirut souks or shops. There is a lot of shopping here and cute little markets. We loved seeing the locals cooking live on site and also selling their products. We got to try somme really incredible things. There really is a shop for everyone here. Just walk around the city and start admiring the East Meets West architecture and buildings. It’s really a cool city.

8.    Eat eat eat! My lord, I really didn’t expect it, but Beirut had the most amazing food. After I left and continued to travel around the Middle East, I kept missing the food in Lebanon. It’s so delicious, and all the restaurants we tried were great. There are some charming cafes and some really yummy dinner spots. We ate a few times on Zaitunay Bay. The food is cheap here as well, so eat up. You will just love it. One of my favorite things about Lebanon was the terrific food. Vegetarians, don’t worry, you won’t be disappointed. So many of the local dishes are meat-free. The Hummus and tabbouleh were just exquisite! Yummy! Don’t forget the wine! Also, how could I forget? You better smoke some hookah here! It’s a serious past time for the locals, and great for relaxing and people watching while doing it.

A few restaurant/Cafe recommendations for Beirut. 

For Breakfast: 

Blanca café

Bartartine

Dar Bistro and Books

Home Sweet Home Café

Enab Beirut

Aaliya’s Books

Lunch/Dinner

Em Sherif

Liza

Mosaic

Leila

Al Falamanki

Society

Al Mandaloun

Indigo on the Roof

Nour

Salt

Urbanista

Bay Rock Café

Villa Badaro

9.    Take a day trip to the captivating natural beauty of Akoura, Mont  Liban.  A mountainous village in the Jebel region. This is full of hikes, waterfalls, stunning views, and great for any nature lover. There you can check out Al Rweiss cave. If you love hiking, then I suggest doing the Saydet el Habs cliffs for panoramic views of the historical city and natural beauty underneath. It’s breathtaking. Check out the Akoura river and take a nice dip in the fresh blue water next to the lovely Akoura waterfall. Check out St. Peter and Paul Church, this one not your average church, but one carved into the rock. If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can even camp here. The sunrise in the morning and stargazing will be well worth giving up the 5-star hotel accommodation for a night. It really is a nature lover’s paradise. There is a lot of beauty out here, and some say it’s a land of its own.

10.    Take a trip to Harissa. I mentioned it before as a day trip along with Byblos and Jeita Grotto. Harissa is the religious site to visit in the country. It homes The Lady of Lebanon or The Statue of the Virgin Mary. You can ride the cable car up and will have breathtaking views of the bay below while getting an actual spiritual experience. You can Uber here, or as I said above, do a day tour and knock off the three sites in one day. I strongly recommend that to save time and money.

Lebanon is a beautiful country and Beirut is absolutely buzzing. It has so much beauty in all areas of the country and the most helpful people. For a country that has been through so much turmoil, you would sometimes never know. The people exude so much resilience and hope.

I really hope you take my advice and take a trip to Lebanon, it is easily one of the top countries I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. I also cannot stress that I felt completely safe here and found the people to be incredibly sweet and hospitable. I will definitely be back in Beirut, but until then, I will be hitting up as many Lebanese restaurants in LA as I can. Have fun!

I’ve had some messages about visiting Lebanon and then other countries such as Israel. It is true that if you have been to Israel, you will not be permitted into Lebanon. That is if you have a stamp from Israel. Israel now no longer stamps your passport, so it shouldn’t be an issue. I went to Lebanon before Israel to avoid any conflict. I then went to Israel, and it was fine. Yes, they did notice my stamps from Lebanon and questioned what I was doing there and who I knew, but after 15-20 mins and some interrogation, they sent me on my way. Many countries understand that many people just are tourists and truly into the history and culture of a place and not affiliated with any type of politics or religion of either place. Don’t mention to Lebanese officials you will be visiting Israel, though. It’s just not worth not being able to enter such a fabulous country.

How to dress in Lebanon:

Believe it or not, Beirut is pretty Westernized. You can wear whatever you would like for the most part, and it isn’t as strict as other Middle Eastern countries. I wore dresses with long sleeves, mostly. Or maxi dresses. I still like to be a bit modest there, but again it’s not that strict, especially in Beirut. You don’t even see the hijab worn much by women here until you get out in the more rural parts of Lebanon. If you want to be safe, just take a shawl with you. Don’t stress it, though. I saw some Lebanese girls in skirts and tank tops.

I snuck up on a wedding photoshoot in a more rural part of Lebanon, where woman tend to cover more. They’re also a bit more traditional and conservative outside of Beirut.

The best time to visit Lebanon:

I went to Lebanon in early November and the weather was lovely. Not so hot, and cool. The only downside is the days are shorter. I would strongly recommend to visit in the shoulder months when the crowd of tourists are at a minimum. In the summer it’s incredibly hot and the tourist sites are quite busy. Spring and Autumn are lovely, mild, and really beautiful bursting with colors. August is the hottest month so beware if you go in the summer for heat and crowds.

Your Ultimate Guide For Visiting Jordan!

by | Dec 26, 2019 | Travel

Ultimate Guide for Visiting Jordan!

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Jordan! What a magical country! You are in for such beauty and unique experiences. There is so much to see and do in Jordan. First things first. When heading to Jordan to begin your trip, I would fly into Amman and start your fabulous journey there. Amman is the capital and a city not to be missed. I strongly advise renting a car in Jordan, as it will be much cheaper than hiring guides or doing half a dozen tours. You can quickly and safely drive in the country, and it will save you time and money. You are also able to go at your own pace and be on your own schedule. I rented a car from MonteCarlo Rental cars. They were cheaper than the mainstream car rental companies. They picked me up from the airport and drove the 5 minutes to the storefront. They had a lower fee when dropping off the car in Aqaba compared to the other rental companies as well, which was great. I would for sure recommend them.

Remember, you will need a valid driver’s license, a credit card for the deposit required, and I strongly recommend taking out insurance just to be safe. It’s not worth worrying about in a foreign country if someone hits you. Sometimes people can drive a bit crazy in some of these countries. Many places take cards, but having cash is also very handy. I would go to a cash exchange in the town for the lowest fees and best exchange rate. At the airport in Amman, Arab bank has the best rate for exchanging money. My biggest tip in this blog. LISTEN UP! Go online before your trip, and buy a JORDAN PASS. No, I make no money from this demand, but you will save a lot by doing this. A lot.

landing into Amman.

“My biggest tip in this blog. LISTEN UP! Go online before your trip, and buy a JORDAN PASS. No, I make no money from this demand, but you will save a lot by doing this.”

Excellent rental from Monte Carlo Rentals

There are a few different packages. I bought the “Jordan Wanderer” for 99USD. This included a 1-day pass to Petra, Free entry to all of the 40 main attractions in Jordan, and also covers your Jordan visa fee. This is a no brainer, so make sure you buy it before entry. You will need a paper version with you at all times, and each tourist attraction will stamp it upon visiting. The Petra night visit is not included in this, and you will need to go to the ticket office to buy those tickets if you want to go to that, which I recommend. Petra is magical by day, and at night it’s a different vibe. Totally mysterious.

Accommodation; In Amman, I stayed at The House Boutique Suites. The hotel was very centrally located and perfect for Ashli and I. The check-in was a breeze, the staff was lovely, rooms super spacious, and they had an incredible rooftop with amazing views of the city, not to mention a fabulous bar for some cocktails in the sun. Another handy feature was the free laundry facility they had. The only thing you needed was detergent, which you could buy at the corner market for super cheap or on the property itself for a little more. The House Boutique Suites had free valet for our rental as well, which made it easy for us. We were very pleased with our stay.

The House Boutique Suites

Amman Citadel

Visit the Amman Citadel, the Amman Citadel is a historical site in the center of downtown Amman. The historic hill was ruled by many various empires from sometime after 1200 BC. There is a mix of Greek, Byzantine, and Roman architecture. Here you can see the Temple of Hercules, A Byzantine church, and the Umayyad Palace. There is also a museum that came much more recently. The Citadel is one of the best sites Amman has to offer, and the views of the city are the best! If you’re not much for history, at least come for the spectacular views over Amman and beyond. It’s truly stunning.

Views over Amman

“The Citadel is one of the best sites Amman has to offer, and the views of the city are the best! If you’re not much for the history, at least come for the spectacular views over Amman and beyond.”

Have a walk around the Roman Amphitheatre in Amman. Just down the hill 15 minutes from the Citadel is the Roman Theatre. This theatre holds 6,000 seats and dates back to the Roman period when Amman was known as Philadelphia. Yes, you read that right, Amman was called Philadelphia. This is a Greek word meaning “Brotherly love.” Amman was named by Ptolemy II Philadelphus the Macedonian ruler of Egypt who rebuilt the city. It is free to stand outside and take photos, videos, and just take the site in like I did. If you would like to enter, I recommend using the Jordan pass for free admission. I’ve seen many Theatres, so I didn’t feel the need to go in, but it is a pretty special place with centuries of history.

Take a Stroll around Rainbow Street. Rainbow street is a street close to the above sites I mentioned. It is a lively and bustling neighborhood with souvenir shops filled with tiny trinkets, cafes, restaurants, and even some rooftop bars. Enjoy some tea in this area. Cafes with coffees, tea, and fresh juices will dot the street, and there will be no shortage of choice. I recommend a sweet fresh pomegranate juice or a black tea. The tea culture is excellent in this area. Strangers will offer you tea to be welcoming. Accept it. Haha.

Amazing food at Shams Al Balad.

Eat some fantastic food. My Amman recommendations for food would be, number one, Shams Al Balad, a super cute and romantic restaurant overlooking the streets below and lovely views of the Citadel. There is also a gift shop attached to it with adorable items for sale. For other options, try out Hashem, Sufra, and Habiba sweets for any sugar cravings. Also, a famous spot in Amman is Habibah Knafeh, it’s near to Hashem, and a must-try. If you make it to Rainbow street, enjoy some ice cream. There is also no shortage of ice cream, and gelato pops here.

Jerash

Take a day trip to Jerash. If you make it to Amman, then you can not miss out on Jerash. Jerash is up there with one of the best stops to make while in Jordan. The ancient City of Jerash. Truly beautiful and encompassing Roman ruins that spread far and wide. These ruins include the Temple of Artemis, Cardo Maximum, Nymphaeum, a public fountain, and the enchanting theatre. The Oval forum is also a spectacle, and a must-do photo opp while at Jerash. To get to Jerash, you can take a bus for cheap, hire a taxi round trip for about 70 dollars from Amman, or you can take my advice and rent a car, giving you all the time in the world to explore the ruins without any stress on a particular schedule. I would give yourself about four to five hours to really walk around the ruins and see them in their entirety. I think I was there for about three hours, but that is because I’ve seen so many ruins, and I have a short attention span, and it all starts to look the same to me. That being said, it really is a magical place and is not worth missing. You will enter this site free with your Jordan pass. Just remember to bring it along with you. Remember to have some change with you for any souvenirs, and also to use the toilets. Pack some Toilet paper as well.

“Jerash is up there with one of the best stops to make while in Jordan. The ancient City of Jerash. Truly beautiful and encompassing Roman ruins that spread far and wide.”

One of the best views over Jerash.

Amman to The Dead Sea; I chose to drive down and make my first over-night stop at the Dead Sea while making my way down South to Petra and Wadi Rum. On route, if the sky is clear, I recommend stopping at Mount Nebo. Mount Nebo is said in the Bible to be the very place Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land, and the place he lived in his final days. Religious or not, it’s worth a quick stop. The views of the Dead Sea are incredible. You can also see over to Jericho and Jeruselum, (If the sky is clear), and there are some fantastic mosaics in the church there. The drive from Amman to The Dead Sea is about an hour, if you decide to make a stopover at Mount Nebo, then add another 2 hours or so into your schedule from driving there, walking around, and getting back on route and close to the Dead Sea.

“I recommend stopping at Mount Nebo. Mount Nebo is said in the Bible to be the very place Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land, and the place he lived in his final days.”

The Dead Sea; Getting to the Dead Sea was so exciting. A little information about The Dead Sea. It’s called the dead sea because no fish or animals can survive in it, only algae can.

Trying to read a book that Ash dropped in the water! hahahaha.

The Dead Sea is the lowest place on earth around 410-420 meters below sea level. It has about 34 percent salinity, while most oceans have about 3 percent if that tells you anything. The mud from the dead sea is famous, and many people cover themselves in it for softer skin, and to even heal some skin ailments such as rosacea and eczema. The clay-like mud was so much fun to cover ourselves in. You must do this on your Dead Sea visit. You wear the mud for about 15 minutes and then get into the water and wash it off after you can do a salt scrub to exfoliate. It’s such a pleasant and relaxing experience. Getting into the dead sea kind of felt like swimming in a sea of olive oil. The texture of the water feels very oily. You slowly get in, the water temperature is pleasant, not so cold. And then you lay back and float. For some reason, I was excellent floating on my back, but terrible at floating on my stomach, where Ash experienced the exact opposite. I wonder why. The one thing that I was bummed about is the area where the hotels are, such as The Hilton, where I stayed had very typical looking beaches with no salt build-up. If you want to see the area where the shoreline is covered in crystallized salt with a beautiful blue tint, then you need to drive about 20 mins South of where the resorts are. You will see a big parking lot and a lookout point. You can park your car and walk down to the sea. It’s a bit of a walk, but the water is so beautiful, and the views are amazing here than the resort area. Don’t miss this part. Also, make sure to buy some good Dead Sea mud mask products to take home, even just one. It’s so good for the skin, and it’s a great way to relive your Dead Sea experience while back home in your shower.

“The mud from the dead sea is famous, and many people cover themselves in it for softer skin, and to even heal some skin ailments such as rosacea and eczema. The clay-like mud was so much fun to cover ourselves in.”

A look out South of the resort area of The Dead Sea.

If you choose to spend two nights at The Dead Sea, we only had time for one sadly and missed out, but I would highly recommend taking a morning day trip to Wadi Al Mujib. Wadi Al Mujib is a winding river canyon 70 km long, which spills into the Dead Sea. It is famous for its swimming, hiking, climbing, and amazing views of the terrain and mountains below. If you want an adrenaline rush, then come here. It’s meant to be beautiful and fun. You can literally wear a life vest and float down the river, just be sure to pack comfortable tight shoes, a one-piece suit, and be prepared for little fish to nibble on you. Don’t worry, it doesn’t hurt. Many people I know have said this was a real highlight to their Jordan trip and was very refreshing and adventurous. If you have the time, it’s worth checking out.

The Hilton Dead Sea Resort

Dead Sea Accommodation; I stayed at The Hilton Dead Sea, and it was great! It had 3 really amazing infinity pools, a Lebanese and Italian restaurant with live music, and incredibly spacious modern rooms with sea views. Not all have the sea views obviously, but I would definitely suggest paying the extra little bit to get a sea view. The sunsets over the sea are incredible. It’s worth it. Ash and I loved having a few cocktails in the pool and watching the sunset from the pool and hotel balcony. The check in and out were fast. We got welcome drinks upon arrival. The buffet breakfast had everything one would need. The staff was so sweet as well and the rooms were spotless. This is a great choice when staying at The Dead Sea.

Getting a mud massage before floating. It’s great for the skin!

At The Hilton, there is also a private beach down below the property just for Hilton guests where you can find beach loungers, towels, a swimming area, and staff who are equipped and ready to cover you in Dead Sea mud from head to toe. I didn’t put the mud on my face, but I had it everywhere else. It was so much fun and such a unique experience. Also, remember to get the free certificate from them, showing you have been to the lowest place on earth. It’s a cute little souvenir you can bring home to remember your experience by. We were delighted with our accommodation at The Hilton Dead Sea. The one bummer about the hotel and The dead sea is all the flies. They are everywhere. It may be wise to pack some bug spray if that even would repel the flies? They don’t bite but are a nuisance.

The Dead Sea to Petra; The Dead Sea to Petra is about a 3.5-hour drive. Be prepared to drive through the mountains up very steep inclines. I about freaked out, driving around some of the curvy and narrow slopes. My heart was racing. I’m not really sure why. I’m not afraid of heights, but I think that day I was. Haha. There are two ways to go to Petra, the first you can take a left sooner than the other route, I’m not sure which route or if both have the mountains, but the way we took was to continue straight and take the second left. This was a very scenic route. There were times when we wouldn’t see another car for an hour. It was through mountains and on narrow one-lane desert roads. I was intimidated, but not because the roads are unsafe but because you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. If something were to happen, there’s not much service nor anything for miles. Scary thought, but happily, we had no issues.

I suggest doing more research on both routes and take the one less windy as that really gave me anxiety, and again I’m not even someone afraid of heights or narrow roads. The drive to Petra is beautiful and desolate. Some miles feel as if you’re driving into infinity with nowhere to go. The views of the mountains are breathtaking and make you genuinely feel so minuscule. Don’t rush this drive, don’t your time, allow for it, so you can stop and take photos. Take it all in and enjoy it. It’s stunning and almost otherworldly. In 3.5 hours, you will arrive in Petra if you drive directly.

Petra. What exactly is Petra? Petra is an ancient city in Jordan that is only accessible through narrow, rugged, and steep gorges and canyons. It was said to be inhabited as far back as 9000 BC and was a thriving and bustling trading post along the silk road. Petra was abandoned mainly around the time of the 8th century and only used for centuries by shepherds and nomads. It was only in 1812 when the city, once lost, was rediscovered by a Swiss explorer named Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. It then becomes a world-famous and one of the most significant archeological sites in the world. Petra also found itself on the “7 Wonders of the World” list. It was also awarded as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985. This drew scholars, archeologists, and hundreds of thousands of tourists. Petra is also called “The Rose City.” The colors of the stone in which the buildings were carved into are a lovely shade of rose

The stones were so beautiful.

Back to our journey now. Ashli and I arrived in the Petra area and to our hotel camp at about 3pm. We checked into our hotel, The 7 Wonders Luxury Camp. Not to be confused with the regular 7 wonders, as they are owned by the same company, but one is a little higher end. We rented out one of the white dome rooms, which was cool to do. The hotel staff was really lovely, and the room was very unique. My favorite thing about the hotel was that it was outside of the city of Wadi Musa, where Petra is, so there is very little light. You could see the stars very well, you could also see the lights in the mountains where the Bedouin camps and other hotels are. It looks so idyllic, like a storybook. It lit up at nighttime and reminded me of the little light-up Christmas model houses and town my grandmother used to put up every year. If I could do my stay over, even though my hotel was great, I think I would stay in one of the mountain cave hotels or with a Bedouin person and get a truly unique experience. You can do things where you cook with them, eat dinner with them, and stay in their cute little cave houses. It’s the real authentic experience, and they make money from it, which hugely benefits them as opposed to just spending your money on a bigger hotel brand or hotel. We saw many people opting for this while driving back from Petra by night, and it looked cool, many people with bonfires out just dancing around and enjoying tea under the stars.

7 Wonders luxury camp was amazing.

The lights in the caves is another hotel. It looked so cute lit up at night. It didn’t look real. I loved it here.

The Treasury of Petra.

We left our hotel for the town and went to the Petra ticket office to get tickets to Petra by night, we had heard mixed reviews on it. However, I decided, regardless of if it was super touristy or a bit cheesy, I still wanted to do it. Plus, it’s your only real opportunity to see the treasury by night, under the stars, and with hundreds of lit candles. So why not opt for a different and unique experience? Don’t miss it. It’s 25 dollars to enter, you must buy the tickets that day, and it’s only on certain days of the week, so watch out. The last day is Thursdays for it. We went on a Thursday night. I recommend being the first ones there and walking super fast through the siq to get to the treasury. You will get epic photos if you get there with the first few people as it fills up quickly, and the scene just isn’t as mystic once it’s filled with 500 tourists. So walk briskly and take a little water with you as the walk is about 1.5k inside and takes about 30 minutes or so. The show lasts about 40 mins or so, and then it’s time to walk back. Bring a good camera as the iPhone just could not capture the dark treasury well. Try the tea they pass out, it’s so lovely. I just sat there looking at the treasury and the stars in the sky, and felt so much gratitude. I tried to imagine myself back thousands of years ago when it was still a bustling stop on the Silk road. It really is such a magical place.

Petra by night, not great iPhone photos, but whatever. ha.

It was so beautiful with all the candles lit. Try to get there ahead of everyone on the walk.

“I just sat there looking at the treasury and the stars in the sky, and felt so much gratitude. I tried to imagine myself back thousands of years ago when it was still a bustling stop on the Silk road.”

Petra by day. Many people will tell you that you need two full days at Petra. I think one full day is enough. However, if you want to see little Petra, then I would allow a second day for that. I would spend two nights in Petra, though.

My favorite view point of The Treasury. It costs just 1 dinar and you get some tea and a great view!

“ Petra is an ancient city in Jordan that is only accessible through narrow, rugged, and steep gorges and canyons. It was said to be inhabited as far back as 9000 BC and was a thriving and bustling trading post along the silk road.”

Be at Petra before it opens; My number one tip when going to Petra arrive there 20 minutes before it opens. The opening time is 6am. Go at 5:45 as we did. Petra is one of the top tourist attractions in the world, thousands go daily. If you want to enjoy your experience, get the most of your day, the best photos, and lesser people, go early. Also, another important thing. When you arrive at Petra for the day, even if you have a Jordan pass, you still must go to the ticket office line to get it stamped. The lines get long, so don’t make the mistake of going straight to the gate of Petra because they will send you right back to the ticket office to show your passport and get your stamp. Remember, when using the Jordan pass, you must have your passport with you. We got there at 5:45 were the first few people in line to get our pass stamped, and then once we entered the gate, we walked as fast as possible to get to the treasury and get epic photos before anyone got there. I’m telling you, it’s worth it. The tour buses all arrive around 10am, and by then, it’s packed at the treasury, so forget getting an epic photo without loads of people in it.

There are some great photo spots just to your right of the entrance, from the Siq to the treasury. You climb some rocks, and there is a man with carpets to sit on and drink tea. Give him 1 dinar for the tea and the photo opp. You have to pay for him, but you can take really great photos. Everyone takes turns there, and it was my favorite photo spot. If you look all around the treasury, there are great spots. The horse stables, the cliffs, everywhere is a different perspective. Remember to bring cash to tip the people who show you the photo spots or let you use their balconies. The restrooms also sometimes require a dinar so best to have some singles with you.

I love traveling with this one!

Petra has so many beautiful structures. It’s not just the Treasury and Monastery

TRAIL ADVICE: READ! Now here is some vital information on which trails to walk, during which part of the day. To avoid being in the constant sun and the crowds. Start at the treasury, (obviously) and then head up the Streets of facades. Turn left at the High Place of Sacrifice and start your hike up. You’ll pass the Lion’s Monument, The Garden Temple, and many more scenic lookout points. There is more to see this way as opposed to going right to all the tombs first. You will walk around until you get The Great Temple, The Columbarium, and The Temple of Dushares.

After these last few sites, you will begin your thousand stairs climb to the Monastery. You can not miss the Petra Monastery. It is a long walk but anyone can do it. I saw 70 year olds doing it. It will take you about 2 hours to walk from the treasury to the Temple of Dushares, and then another hour to hike up to The Monastery. Again, if you get to the Monastery by 11am you’re in great shape. You will be walking in the shade, also doing this route as opposed to walking straight up the Streets of Facades to the Monastery. Please don’t take animals up to the Monastery. I just can’t support animal tourism. The camels, donkeys, and horses in my opinion, probably don’t want to be carrying your ass up 1,000 stairs, so unless you have a disability or can’t walk, do it yourself. Don’t hire animals. It’s just not right.

“The camels, donkeys, and horses in my opinion, probably don’t want to be carrying your ass up 1,000 stairs, so unless you have a disability or can’t walk, do it yourself.”

The locals of Petra are just so nice.

This is your view walking through the Siq.

One of the many viewpoints.

Upon arriving at the Monastery, there are no bathrooms except “in Nature”, so go before. There is however, a restaurant you can get drinks, sheesha, and sandwiches. You can also get some epic photos at the lookouts here. There is a little cave right behind the restaurant that many girls have gotten pictures from. It smelled of goat piss, but it made for a beautiful photo. Get low as the photo taker, to hide the benches in the background.

There is also a lookout point even further back you can climb up to. The Monastery is so beautiful. There are little shops all the way along the trail to the Monastery. Have cash if you plan on buying but perhaps look on your way down so you aren’t carrying it. Haggle of course. Also, if you get too hot I would stop and have some tea with the locals at little cafes on the way. It really gets so hot walking up those stairs. Make sure you have excellent walking shoes. I wore my Adidas tennis shoes under my dress. Haha. Make sure to pack a hat, sunglasses, SPF 50, good shoes, water and snacks.

Bring extra snacks if you can because the kids there will ask you for some of your food if they see you eating it because they don’t have much and are hungry. Some people go against giving food out as they say they start to rely on it too much but I couldn’t have someone beg me for a cookie or potato chip and say no. Money is one thing, but when someone is asking for food, you know they probably are hungry. A lot of the locals also only eat certain foods so they don’t get snacks too often. They’r’ used to pita bread, rice, camels milk, and certain meats. They enjoy the treats if you’re feeling generous. If you aren’t, then be firm with your no, or they will keep trying. Also remember that nothing in life is free, if someone offers something “free” don’t take it, it’s not free, they will want something for it and will ask after they have given it or they will ask for a tip. After you finish at the Monastery, the hike down seems a lot faster. Perhaps because it’s downhill. You will then come down the hill, walk back down the main road and you will get to the tombs which are incredible. There is so much amazingness on both sides of you.

Little local cuties.

Take your time walking back down. Remember that it’s not just about the photos, it’s about experiencing the moment and taking it all in. Once you get to the theatre, you’re going to be back at the treasury very soon. Ash and I arrived at Petra at 5:45, and we left around 3pm. That was enough time for us. If you really want to see all of the trails you will need longer and maybe a second day. We were just happy to see the main sites in Petra as again, it starts to all get redundant once you’ve seen most of it. We sadly missed Little Petra, but it’s free to enter, so if you have time, I would for sure go there. I recommend going there first because if you go to little Petra after Petra, you will be underwhelmed. There are great restaurants right down the road from the Petra ticket office. We ate at one really authentic place called “My Mom’s Recipe”. It was so good.

We really enjoyed the food here and the atmosphere.

So many great photo spots in Wadi Rum.

“It’s the crown jewel of the deserts nearby and offers some of the most unique landscapes you’ll ever see on this planet anyway. You can not miss this breathtaking place.”

Petra to Wadi Rum; The drive from Petra to Wadi Rum is much easier than the journey from the Dead Sea to Petra. It will take you about two hours. Wadi Rum, aka The Valley of the Moon, is a desert Valley made up of red sand, incredible sunsets, and the coolest rock formations. It is like no other. If you ever wondered what it would be like to be on the Moon, then this is going to be the best presentation of just that. Hell, the film The Martian was even shot here. It’s the crown jewel of the deserts nearby and offers some of the most unique landscapes you’ll ever see on this planet anyway. You can not miss this breathtaking place. Wadi Rum is excellent because it’s less touristy than Petra and yet still so stunning. Have you seen Lawrence of Arabia? Well, that movie was also filmed here. It’s truly like a movie set in some spots. There are a million photo ops. We went for the jeep ride on the outskirts of the protected area as there are a lot of cool things out there, great photo ops, and reception! Haha. You only really need a full day to do the jeep tour here and then one or two nights to camp and relax under the beautiful stars. If you can, watch the stars. I’ve heard that many people have claimed to see UFOs here. Ash even claims she did while I was showering.

Recognize the background? It’s from “The Martian”.

Loved this hotel!

“It’s like no other place in the world. It’s really like camping on Mars. ”

It doesn’t even feel real…….

Wadi Rum Accommodation; To have the most out of this world experience, like none before, I recommend staying at Memories Aicha Luxury Camp. It is in the protected area of the Wadi Rum desert park. You park at the parking lot in Wadi Rum town, and then a driver from the hotel will bring a 4×4 to pick you up and take you to the hotel. There will sadly be no wifi or service, but honestly, it’s the most far-out hotel I’ve ever stayed in. Make sure you rent a dome room. These are a little more costly, but again, you can lay in bed and have panoramic views of the desert all around you, and then the roof you can look up at the stars all night from the bed. It was so neat, and something I would love to take my kids to do one day. It’s worth the money. The room again is just a small colorful dome with charming interiors. I loved it so much! There are a few dome hotels, but this one was the best, in my opinion, because of the size and color of the room. The bubble hotel there is a little plain from what I’ve seen. The room rate also includes meals, which was nice. The food was great here. The only complaint was the drinks were a little pricey, but I would still go back without question. If you want a once in a lifetime experience, then this is the place and hotel for you. It’s like no other place in the world. It’s really like camping on Mars.

When Ash and I did our 4×4 tour, we had the best time with the best guide. We had to meet him at the gas station just outside of wadi rum town, and we left our rental. It was perfectly safe there. Our guide was Mohammed, and he was terrific. I will link his facebook below. He is so friendly and knows all of the right spots to see and take photos. He grew up in Wadi, Rum, his whole life, so he knows everything there is to know. He will also tell you real things. There was a tour guide passing us when we stopped at this castle, and the guide goes, “This castle was in this movie,” and Mo said, “That’s a lie.” Hahahaha. He was so funny, had a great sense of humor, spoke English well, and also could take amazing photos! My photos from Wadi Rum will be enough to get you to go. Have the best time! Drink lots of apple tea, take great photos, enjoy seeing the stars, and enjoy disconnecting from wifi for a bit and taking in the experience. Jordan is in my top 5 favorite countries now for sure! You will love it!

The best guide in Wadi Rum.

“My photos from Wadi Rum will be enough to get you to go. Have the best time! Drink lots of apple tea, take great photos, enjoy seeing the stars, and enjoy disconnecting from wifi for a bit and taking in the experience.”

Top 10 Things To Do In Santiago, Chile

by | Sep 18, 2019 | Travel

The capital of Chile might just be one of the most beautiful cities in South America. Surrounded by the Andes mountains, Santiago is bursting with natural beauty, rich history, and colorful culture. If you have a few days to spare, Santiago is a city full of adventures of all kinds, offering a little something for everyone. You can go sightseeing, hike up into the Andes, enjoy a wine tasting in one of the Chilean vineyards, or experience the vibrant nightlife the city has. Here are 10 of my favorite things to do while visiting Santiago.

1. Explore the Plaza de Armas

This is the best place to begin your time in Santiago. Designed to be the main plaza, this area has been the city center since its founding in 1541. Where there used to be gallows during the colonization of Chile now stands a beautiful fountain in memory of Simón Bolívar, the Liberator of many South American nations. The area around the fountain is dotted with tall palm trees and benches for visitors to sit and enjoy all the sights and sounds the square has to offer.

Like in most big-city hubs, you’ll find street performers of all kinds looking to entertain tourists. I think it’s entertaining to have a wander around all the performers in the square, you’ll find everything from break dancing to clown shows.

There are several historical and cultural landmarks around the perimeter of the plaza including the Metropolitan Cathedral, Royal Court Palace, and the Central Post Office. With so much to see and do, you could easily spend the whole day just experiencing all the Plaza de Armas has to offer.

2. Climb Santa Lucia Hill

If you’re walking around the plaza hasn’t tired you out yet, just a few blocks away is one of the best things to do in Santiago. The large park is full of history; it’s the very place where the city was founded by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Valdivia in 1541. At the entrance to the park is another gorgeous fountain, the Neptune Fountain. From here some several trails and staircases will take you up to the top of the hill where stunning views of Santiago and the surrounding mountains await.

Also at the top of the hill is Santiago’s historic center, El Castillo Hidalgo. The castle was built in 1816 by the order of the last Spanish governor of the city. It was built as a defense fortress, but now it is a venue for weddings, parties, graduations, galas, and other important events. You can take a tour of the castle and enjoy panoramic views on the now roofed in terrace.

3. Enjoy the Views from San Cristobal Hill

While we’re on the topic of hills, I may as well tell you about the best viewpoint in the city. San Cristobal is a bit higher up than Santa Lucia, and the views from the top are stunning. This hill is part of the Metropolitan Park, the biggest park in Santiago. At the top, you’ll find a sanctuary to the Immaculate Conception which features a 72 feet tall statue of the Virgin Mary. On the hill is also a beautiful Japanese garden and some swimming pools that are open in the summer.

There’s a couple of ways you can get up the hill. I prefer the scenic ride in the cable car! It makes the journey a lot easier (and quicker) plus you get to enjoy the views on the way up. Or you can always just hike up the hill. Walking will take you about an hour, depending on your pace, but you’ll be treated to the views of the city and the fresh Chilean air.

4. Watch the Changing of the Guard at La Moneda

As Santiago is the capital city of Chile, of course, the office of the President stands here. La Moneda means “the coin” and this is because the building was once the official mint of Chile. It is a beautiful neoclassical building that was built in 1805 but has suffered plenty of damage during its history.

The palace is the site of the death of Chilean president Salvador Allende. In the 70s the palace was bombed by the Chilean air force when he refused to leave, and he died later the same day. The official story names his death as suicide, but most people believe it was an assassination.

You can take a tour of La Moneda, but you have to book a reservation at least 7 days in advance. If you can’t get a tour, you should still stop by and watch the changing of the guard. It happens every other morning at 10, or 11 on Saturdays.

5. Take a Day Trip to Cajon del Maipo

There are honestly so many things to do in Santiago that I need a much bigger list. Seriously, I haven’t even touched on the food and drink or even the festivals that seem to always be happening in the city. But despite all that, you really should try to set aside a day to visit Cajon del Maipo, it’s the perfect choice to spend a refreshing day enjoying the beautiful nature in Chile.

This canyon in the Andes offers stunning scenery and hiking trails of varying difficulty. One trail will even lead you to a reservoir that’s 8,200 feet above sea level! If hiking isn’t necessarily your thing or you feel a bit more adventurous, you can also try zip lining, white water rafting, or horseback riding.

But the best bit about Cajon del Maipo is the hot water springs. After a hard day of hiking, rafting, or zip-lining, there’s nothing better than a warm soak in the natural springs. Bring your swimsuit!

6. Go to the Sky Costanera and get Amazing 360 panoramic views of the City

Check out the Costanera Center for shopping. It’s a giant mall with many salons, stores, and dining options. At the very top, there is the Sky Costanera. It is an observation deck on the top of the skyscraper almost 1,000 ft. up. Sky Costanera is the highest viewpoint in all of South America. If you come up here know that it’s indoors and has floor to ceiling windows. It gets crowded before sunset so go about an hour early to secure your spot. I went during the day and it was so clear that you could see for miles, and see just how big Santiago is. The building is open from 10am-9pm and costs 22 USD. It’s a little expensive, but worth the view. Again, I suggest going an hour before sunset to see both the day and the night scene. The Sky Costanera was one of my favorite things to do in San Tiago, you couldn’t beat the views, even if stuck behind a window!

7. Take a Day Trip to Valparaiso and Vina Del Mar.

There is a tour I booked on Viator.com that combines the two. It’s great to get outside of the very large metropolitan city of San Tiago and explore other Chilean cities, especially the coastal ones. You will check out the beaches, fish markets, see one of the original Moai statues from Easter Island, check out historical buildings, walk around the cities, see non-stop street art, and have a lovely little lunch with amazing views at La Mirador. There is also a lot of really cool street art you will see. Bring good walking shoes as there is a lot of walking and a lot of hills, but it’s fine. You’ll love it.

8. Take a Trip out to Wine Country, to one of the Many Vineyards.

Chile is famous for its wine. It’s delicious. Chile is one of the biggest wine exporters in the world. No trip to Chile would be complete without visiting a vineyard. There are so many vineyards you can visit and you can do a tasting, shop for wines, and just sit and enjoy the sunshine, while sipping some Chilean wine. You can eat lunch at the vineyards, along with taking a tour through them to see the many gardens, plants, and beautiful architecture. Veramonte, in the Casablanca Valley is stunning and the one we had the pleasure to stop at. You can enjoy this tour combined with the above tour to Valparaiso and Vina Del Mar.

9. Get Lunch and a Few Beers at Barrio Bellavista.

After going to San Cristóbal Hill, take the funicular down and walk to Bellavista. Bellavista is a neighborhood in Santiago known for its numerous restaurants, boutiques, bars, and clubs. It’s known to be the “Bohemian Quarter”, and very artsy and hipster. You can get lunch here and get some great souvenirs and gifts. You can also get some great authentic arts and crafts. If you head here in the evening, plan for live music, a crowd, and lots of drinking. It’s very lively at night. Patio Bellavista that is.

10. Stay at the New Novotel Providencia

This Novotel’s Location is just the very best. You can walk to the Costanera Center for shopping and the sky deck. It’s near to many shops and restaurants. It is close to all of the tourist attractions as well. Gabby and I either walked to the tourist attractions, or got cheap Ubers, they are much cheaper than taxis. The hotel is colorful, new, and super clean. It has a great little restaurant and café. It has a lovely outdoor patio you can eat as well. The breakfast and dinner was just lovely. The view is great. I got some beautiful sunset photos from this hotel. The rooms were spacious, brand new, and well cleaned. I would recommend this hotel over and over again. You just can’t get a better location than this in Santiago. It also has an indoor pool and gym with new equipment. There are two Novotel’s, so make sure you pay attention when booking and go for this one for the location