Study Daze

Just as I was beginning to feel the overwhelming midterm stress, I headed to CDLC for an afternoon of cocktails on our so-called "Study Day." My friends and I lounged at this spot located by the beach drinking pitchers of sangria, strawberry mojitos, & good vibes. Thank you CEA, ill take the study daze as often as possible. 

I Guess I Like it Here

Off to the mountains in Morocco, I rocked Finders Keepers Be Again Pants with a white wrapped shirt which I purchased off of Tobi. We checked into Richard Branson's hotel known as the Kasbah Tamadot, where I was truly taken back at how beautiful my surroundings were. Our sweet stay here entailed a Hammam treatment at the spa (Moroccan bath), a family hike to the top of the High Atlas Mountains, hookah and vino, and even some tanning in the middle of February. I guess I like it here...! 

Fam in Town

This past week, I was fortunate enough to spend a few days in Barcelona with my family. Landing on Saturday morning, our short and sweet time in Barcelona was filled with great memories, delicious food & sights to see. My parents checked in Hotel Arts conveniently located on the beach, and walking distance from Las Ramblas and other happening spots. Some restaurant recommendations in Barcelona include Ciudad Condal for tapas, Tenorio for a delicious lunch, CDLC for an upbeat dinner with drinks, & Nuba for a more formal dinner. I would recommend taking your parents to spots including La Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell, Casa Bastillo, FC Barcelona Game, the Port, and more. Absolutely loved spending time in my new neck of the woods, showing my parents around! 

Loco Lunes, Loco Lady

#eeeeeats in Prague

Must go to Bake Shop to pick up sandwiches, pastries, or a fresh delicious lunch.  

 Where you would least expect it, the street sausage located in Old Towns Square was a plus. 

 Just a pit stop at the markets early Sunday morning for fresh fruit.

Best for last, the Sweet Bread! 

Top Tourists in Prague

This past weekend, my girlfriend and I took on Prague, and its safe to say we were the number one "travelers" there. Upon our arrival, we instantly went to Bake Shop after hearing delicious reviews, and it nonetheless became our weekend spot. Next on the list, we headed towards Old Town Square, which was evidently the center of everything and it was conveniently located right near our hotel- The Grand Bohemia. It was fascinating to admire the medieval architecture that truly resembled a fantasy world. We then made our way to the Charles Bridge & John Lennon Wall, but because it was near sunset we decided to make our way there again in broad daylight the following morning. At around happy hour time, we sat at a cafe known as Follow Me, where we were shocked at how generous the glasses of wine were. Nearly two put us over edge, but we still had an appetite for James Dean, a diner where the waitresses are dressed up in character.

Day 2, we again stopped at Bake Shop and made our way to the Jewish Quarter. Although we were able to walk around this area, no tours were available on Saturday due to Shabbat. If you plan on traveling to Prague, I would highly recommend visiting this sight Friday before Shabbat. Next, the street meat located in Old Town Square became Mel's personal favorite. We spent a portion of our afternoon indulging in some of Prague's known specialities including the Sausage, Hot Chocolate, Hot Wine & Sweet Bread. Feeling like it was time to burn a few calories off, we hiked up top to the Prague castle, which overlooked the entire city. This view was magnificent & I must admit the trek was worth it. Even better, we stopped at McDonald's on the way down for the notorious fried cheese, which is as good as they say. We also made our way towards New Town, which had more of a city-like feel & was definitely cool to see. This trip was definitely one of our favorites & still cannot get over how picturesque and perfect this little place could be! 

Say Cheese

You can't go to Switzerland without tasting the cheese & chocolate fondue. After all, they are known for this. Although the cheese fondue was rather strong in smell and taste, I would definitely recommend trying it when in Switz. Say cheese!

Pit-Stop in Switzerland

Upon our third trip, we travelled to Interlaken, which is located approximately 2 hours outside of Geneva, Switzerland. We travelled with a program known as Bus2Alps, which made me feel as if I was traveling on a teen tour back in my high school days. When we landed in Geneva, we all hopped onto the Bus2Alps bus, where we spent 2 hours drinking wine and mingling- I have to say the bus was a highlight. Immediately upon our arrival to the Backpacker's Villa (which I recommend staying at), we went to sleep to start our Friday morning off fresh. When we woke up the following morning, we started our day getting bagels and wraps at Utopia, a fun casual spot. Then, we continued our day signing up for activities at Balmer's, and off to the chocolate factory. That night, we headed towards Balmer's for Happy Hour, and had a fun group dinner at Hooter's, where we pretended it was my birthday. We continued our evening back at the Balmer's Hostel, which had a poplin' bar located downstairs known as Metro. I loved this spot especially because it was a break from the club life, and felt as if I was in a frat party type. On Saturday, we spent the day at the Victoria Hotel, where we treated ourselves to spa treatment. After all, abroad is really tough. Later in the day, we walked along the river to see the lakes, which were beyond scenic. Sunday morning, my roommate and I had arrangements to Paraglide prior to our departure at noon; however, due to the weather, it was cancelled. I happen to believe everything happens for a reason, and I certainly know my mom was happy about that one. Overall, Interlaken was one of my favorite travels. It was fun, scenic, & beyond memorable even without the adventurous activities. 

Places to Go: Victoria Hotel, Utopia, Hooter's (it's trustworthy), Happy Inn, Balmer's, Backpackers Villa, Metro