getaway – CollegeFashionista

How to Save Up for Your Dream Trip

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always had an interest in traveling. Fast forward a few years, I’ve had the opportunity to travel to Florida, Chicago, Amsterdam, London, and Paris. With college breaking your bank, it can be hard to even consider traveling anywhere. However, your dream trips should be more than just a dream… you should make them a reality. Once you adjust your spending habits a bit, you’d be surprised to see how easy it actually is to save up your money.

1—Create a realistic budget and stick with it. A part of growing up is learning to prioritize and cut certain things out of your life. If you’re a foodie, there’s no need to completely stop eating out. It is, however, a good idea to reduce how many times you order takeout to save extra cash almost instantly. Grab your planner and start calculating how much airfare, lodging, and meals would cost and plan your budget accordingly.

2—Make money from home. They say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Whether if you’re living on or off campus, cleaning out your closet is a must before any semester. As the seasons change, it’s likely that your style has changed, too. Instead of just throwing away that jean jacket you haven’t worn in over a year, why not sell it online? Apps like Depop and Mercari are perfect for getting rid of all your things from technology to clothes and accessories.

3—Shop smart. As I mentioned earlier, you don’t have to give up everything you love doing just to be able to travel. If you’ve been eyeing a pair of shoes that are a little more than you’d like to spend on them, wait until they go on sale or try to see if the store offers student discounts. Fashion repeats itself, so why not check out your local thrift store? You’re bound to find a bunch of trendy and unique items there for a fraction of the price. Now that’s what I call balling on a budget.

How do you plan on saving up for your next trip? Let us know in the comments below!

Turns Out Your Next Vacation Destination is Closer and Easier Than You Think

For the busy Fashionista, summer days are often scheduled full of family vacations, internships, and eight-hour work shifts. It’s important to put ourselves first every once in a while and find new ways to have fun. I am a huge believer in taking time to exhale from all of life’s stresses. One of my favorite ways to do so is to squeeze in mini day-trips whenever I can to clear my head. Here’s how I achieve the perfect mini day trip getaway.

I love to scroll through Instagram to decide where I would like to go to for a day trip. By scrolling through your favorite blogger’s feed who generally lives in your area, you can find so many unique places that happen to be not too far from you. Since I live in Southern California, I’ve found a lot of fun places through L.A. bloggers such as Cactus Mountain in Joshua Tree, Thousand Steps in Laguna Beach, and El Matador Beach in Malibu.

The second step to achieving a relaxing, mini day trip is to create your ideal playlist filled with your favorite tunes to blast through the car speakers. My go-tos typically include Rooney, The Rolling Stones, and Homeshake. Before heading out the door, protect yourself from harsh UV rays shining down on you with your favorite hat and sunglasses, throw your current page turning read into your bag, and voila! Let’s get on the road.

Lastly, what creates a great getaway is sharing your trip with a good company and documenting it along the way. When traveling anywhere, whether it be abroad or just two hours away, I value being open minded and not always necessarily having a set plan. Some of the best trips come out of wandering around and finding new hidden treasures that feel like it’s a place only you and your adventure buddy know. In order to remember exactly how I felt in that moment, I love having my camera on hand at all times so I can keep those moments with me forever.

Where would you go on your day trip getaway? Let me know in the comments below!

When in Rome

Buon giorno! This summer I had the opportunity to travel to Rome, Italy and had an amazing time! I loved every part of Rome, from the incredible architecture to the delicious food, to the designer stores. After returning home, I have written down a few of my favorite travel tips. Hopefully, these will help you plan your next excursion!

1—Make an itinerary. Before jetting off, you should make a list of the main attractions to make sure you see all that you want. After doing this, you will be able to plan which days you want to do each activity. This will ensure that you make the most of your trip and don’t forget anything you want to do. Additionally, make sure you know your flight times and locations to make traveling as smooth as possible.

2—Wear a comfortable outfit. If you are traveling to a foreign country, you most likely won’t have a car to drive around like at home, and you will have to walk almost everywhere. Because of this, it is important to wear an outfit that is cool and comfortable. One example of an outfit that I wore was a white T-shirt, seersucker shorts, white Converse, and pearl earrings.

3—Water, water, water. Depending on your destination and time of year that you are traveling, the temperature could be very hot, like it was on my trip. The best way to combat this is to make sure that you are staying hydrated throughout the day and drinking plenty of water.

4—Take lots of pictures. This is definitely a trip you’ll want to remember! Take as many pictures as you can so you will be able to look back on them when you are home and remember all the great memories you made.

5—Do as the Romans do. That being said, make sure to take a step back to appreciate the remarkable country you are in. Look at the incredible, thousand-year-old architecture, and listen to the different languages being spoken around you. This is a once in a lifetime experience, make sure to enjoy it!

What are your favorite travel tips? Let me know in the comments!

3 Ways to Change Up Your Beach Day

Do you ever want to make the most of your beach day? Change up the routine a little, and enjoy a different trip to the beach? Get ready to relax and unwind on your next trip to the beach with these ideas:

1—Pick the perfect spot to gaze at. Beaches, in general, are usually packed, so finding the perfect spot could be tedious and quite difficult. So why not get a little lost? Sometimes you find the perfect spot by just looking at places you would never expect. A perfect beach spot, for example, is one overlooking the sand and waters or a spot more secluded than most. The spot I picked is right off the parking lot with a trail towards the beach.

2—Have a picnic in your trunk. Usually, I would bring down my beach mat and head over to the sand, but other days call for having rare beach picnics in the trunk of your car! Especially if the beach you’re headed to may not have much shade. Make the most of your backseat picnic with some blankets and many many pillows (you could never have too much fluff). Having a set-up like so creates the atmosphere almost one of camping and would, sure enough, add a different perspective to your beach day!

3—Relax and unwind to “moonrise” gazing. When the sun sets, there are many more places to discover and relax to. While having a beach day with some girlies, we accidentally came across the moon rising! I have not witnessed watching the moon rise before, but while sharing stories with my friends, we were in awe with the breath-taking view in front of us. Going moonrise gazing you should research where the sun sets and where the moon rises to plan out your day-long event at the beach.

Living on an island, surrounded by water I am always looking for ways to make the most of my beach day and some creative things to do! As the summer comes to an end, I want to relish most of it by relaxing and reflecting on this amazing summer with friends and family. A beach-vibe like this is perfect for bonding and for a toned down day from the rest of our hectic schedules. Here’s a cheers to a great summer!

What is your definition of a perfect beach day? Share with us in the comments below! And, don’t forget to share your beach day on social with #stylegurulove and tag @CFashionista

72 Hours in Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina has always been a destination on my bucket list of places to travel. The city itself gives off an aura of elegance and charm. The streets are filled with brightly colored homes and cobblestone walkways that represent Charleston’s preservation of historic character. One of my favorite aspects of traveling is examining the different fashion styles and trends that present themselves throughout my visit. For example, in Charleston, the color and pattern choice really caught my eye. The clothing was so bright and cheerful with patterns that exhibited a tropical feel. The South Carolina heat was something that I was not used to, so I tried to keep my outfit cool and light. A light tank top, skirt, and sunglasses will keep anyone feeling comfortable throughout the day.

Prior to arriving in Charleston, I researched the most popular spots in the city and The Rise Coffee Bar was recommended by many. The coffee shop was said to be favored by anyone who loves to take a great Instagram post. The aesthetic in The Rise is very modern and chic, making it the perfect spot to snap a photo with your coffee! The first day in Charleston we explored the city, taking full advantage of the city market and plentiful shops. The shops range from popular retail stores such as Forever 21, H&M and Vineyard Vines to locally owned boutiques; the best of both worlds! The second day in Charleston, we took a horse drawn carriage ride through the city. This had to be one of my favorite activities to do in Charleston because you were able to hear about the history of the city with every turn. One aspect that caught my eye while roaming the streets of Charleston was the brightly colored homes. A perfect backdrop for so many great picture taking opportunities. On our last night in this beautiful city, I boarded “The Schooner Pride,” to take a trip around the harbor and view the sunset! This two-hour boat ride was so peaceful and enjoyable with beverages and plenty of room to sit, a perfect end to my trip to Charleston.

One last note—Charleston, South Carolina is now on my list for one of the top three favorite places I’ve traveled! With so many different attractions, anyone traveling to Charleston is sure to find something that will please their wanderlust. Whether it is a ghost tour, carriage ride, or just browsing the shops, you’ll enjoy this beautiful locale!

Where are you traveling to this summer? Show us on social by tagging @CFashionista!

6 Tips to Make Your Summer Trip a Success

Summer is peak season for traveling. Whether you are going to Mexico for a tropical vacation, or Paris for a glam girls trip, tourists will be everywhere. Having said that, there is more to traveling than just visiting a country’s touristy spots. Here are some things I always do to make sure I get the most out of my trips.

1—Take lots of pictures. Yes, as some people say, it’s nice to be in the moment without electronics or technology to take everything in. However, a memory can only last so long, pictures are forever.

2—Don’t stay in your comfort zone. I cannot stress this enough! You are in a new country, so do things you would’ve never done at home. Go on a safari, zip-line across a jungle, or go on a walk and explore non-touristy spots that aren’t necessarily on the map.

3—Eat. There is no better way to explore a country’s culture than through their food. Eat at local restaurants and try the local meals. I get that fried crickets or caramelized spiders might not be your thing, but don’t be afraid to try food you’ve never eaten before.

4—Meet the locals. They always have the best advice on where to eat, drink, or have a good night out. They are also the best way to really learn about the culture. Talk to them about their language or religion to really get a feel for the country. Try to write down everything you’ve learned in a travel journal.

5—Relax. After all, you are on vacation. Chill by the pool, get a relaxing facial, or sweat at the gym. “You” time is very important.

6—Be a tourist. Research online before the trip for main tourist attractions and take a day to visit them. Grab your camera and your friends and go visit the Taj Mahal, The Great Wall of China, or wherever it may be.

Are you taking a trip this summer? Snap some pics and post them on social media. Don’t forget to tag @CFashionista!

Packing the Perfect Carry-On

Traveling is such a wonderful opportunity, but it can sure be stressful. Over the years I have learned that making yourself as prepared as possible is the key to things going as smoothly as they can, so I have what I pack in my carry-on down to a science.

First things first, you want to make sure you have all your important documents and items safely together. My carry-on of choice is always a tote because it makes things easy to grab and put away. I made sure to purchase one with a zip-pocket that keeps the important things (like my wallet and passport) safe but easy to reach for.

Secondly, you want to be as comfortable as you can (especially if you are on a red-eye flight). Planes are almost always cold, so I always pack a pair of thick socks and a sweatshirt, just in case. Whether I plan on sleeping on the plane or not, I pack a neck pillow to add extra support too.

One downside of traveling is that airports are always dirty, which can leave you feeling likewise. To avoid this, I make sure to pack toiletries that help me freshen up, such as lip balm, facial spray, hand sanitizer, facial wipes, perfume, and eye cream. A couple other things I make sure to carry with me are extra hair ties and mints or gum.

Lastly, if you’re going to be on a flight for a while, it’s important to keep yourself entertained. I make sure to pack an easy read (book, Kindle, magazine, etc.), and some comfortable headphones. (Tip: Before you head to the airport, download some new tunes, podcasts, movies, etc. so you abstain from ultimate boredom.)

What do you pack in your carry-on to make traveling a breeze? Let us know in the comments below or tag us @CFashionista!

Must-Haves for Your Summer Road Trip

Summer break is finally here, and for me, that means more time for road trips. There is nothing I love more than grabbing a few friends and driving to a new destination. However, you know what they say: sometimes it’s about the journey, not the destination. Whether it’s a few towns away or hours worth of driving, here are some items that I can’t live without on my journey.

1—A weekender bag. Weekender bags are perfect for throwing in all my weekend essentials. There’s usually no need for a real suitcase for a road trip, but I still want something to fit all my outfits and shoe changes in.

2—Good tunes. A great playlist is a must-have. Lately, I’ve had the new Harry Styles album on repeat, but there is also nothing better than curating a specific playlist for your trip. Ask all your friends to throw in their favorite songs, and jam out together while you hit the open road.

3—A pen and notebook. I rarely ever leave home without a pen and notebook. Seeing new sites always leads to inspiration. I need a place to collect all my thoughts and memories while on the road. Whether it’s the name of a street I want to jot down or a poem that I just need to get out, a purse sized notebook and a click pen are must-haves.

4—Disposable camera. Though getting an Insta-worthy photo is always fun, something about the nostalgia factor of disposable cameras sucks me in. I love never knowing how the photos will turn out, and it gives me something to look forward to even after my road trip is over. Plus, having the physical prints always feels so much more authentic.

5—Snacks. No road trip is complete without lots of stops for fast food and coffee, and there are usually great little places to stumble upon while you’re out on your adventure. But for the moments when the next Dunkin feels too far away to handle, I always make sure to pack a few car-friendly snacks. Some of my favorites are fruit snacks, granola bars, and Goldfish; these lunchbox classics have gotten me through many hours of hunger.

6—A comfy travel outfit. A comfy outfit for your long car ride is essential. Personally, I love layers for traveling. My favorite outfit consists of leggings and a slouchy V-neck with a bralette, because, let’s be honest, there’s no way I’m wearing a real bra for that many hours. Throwing on a cute flannel depending on the temperature is a great way to combine function and style. For feet, try some cute slip-ons that you can kick off during the ride, but throw on when you reach your destination.

What are your road trip essentials? Let me know in the comments below.

5 Things You Need To Do At Disney World

Every little girl dreams of going to Disney World. Even as we grow up, the magic of Disney manages to always stick with us. Summer is obviously the season for vacations, so if you’re lucky enough to find yourself going to Disney World anytime soon, here are five things you must do.

1—Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Bar. First off, you definitely need to try out the Mickey Mouse ice cream bar. There is just something about this particular treat that makes it taste even more delicious than any other ice cream you’ve ever eaten. It’s a perfect way to help cool you down while walking around the park in the crazy Florida heat. These amazing desserts can be found at pretty much any snack cart around all four Disney World theme parks.

2—Expedition Everest Roller Coaster. If you can describe yourself as a dare devil, Disney World has no shortage of thrilling roller coasters. My personal favorite roller coaster would be Expedition Everest located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. It has drops, turns, and even goes backwards in the dark. I would really recommend checking that ride out.

3—The Great Movie Ride. So if roller coasters aren’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other rides that are less scarier options. One example would be The Great Movie Ride located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It is an easy, sit-down ride that takes you through many classics such as Tarzan, The Wizard of Oz, and Casablanca just to name a few. The special effects featured on this ride were incredible and gave you an amazing inside look on some of your favorite movies.

4—World Showcase. Next, you have to visit the World Showcase in Epcot. The World Showcase features 11 different countries such as Morocco, Italy, Norway, and many more. Each country is set up with iconic features that really make you feel like you’ve just stepped foot into that country. For example, France has a replica of the Eiffel Tower and macaron sandwiches that give you just a little taste of France.

5—Happily Ever After Fireworks. Lastly, Magic Kingdom just got a new firework spectacular called Happily Ever After. I absolutely love fireworks and there is nothing that compares to standing in front of Cinderella’s castle and watching amazing bursts of color light up the night sky. I think the firework show describes just how magical Disney World truly is.

If you’ve ever been to Disney World, what do you suggest as a must see while visiting? Let me know in the comments below!

5 Mind-Blowingly Awesome Things To Do In NorCal

Look out, SoCal! If you’re looking for a vacation full of fun, the sun, and, of course, some of the most beautiful places in the world, NorCal is where it’s at. If you’re planning on going to this little slice of paradise, here are some places you definitely need to check out!

1—Take a tour through San Fran. San Francisco is a city like no other. From its roller coaster streets to bustling splendor of Chinatown, all way to the jaw-dropping Golden Gate Bridge, it’s the place to be. If you’re a foodie, too, then San Fran is a dream come true. San Francisco has some of the best restaurants around. Hungry? Pick a place, any place! It’s bound to be good. Make sure to check out the seafood. You’ll never taste a better salmon bagel in your life!

2—Dive into Lake Tahoe. On the border of California and Nevada, right next to Mt. Heavenly is Lake Tahoe. It is a hotspot for nature nuts everywhere. Swimming, fishing, hiking, skiing… this lake has it all. Not a granola girl? Don’t sweat it! Lake Tahoe is filled with casinos, concert halls, and shopping centers as far as the eye can see. No matter what you’re into, Lake Tahoe has something for you!

3—Climb the Sierra Nevada. The Sierra Nevada is one of the most breathtaking mountain ranges in the world. Hiking up these mountains is no walk in the park, but if you can, you absolutely should. If you’re a horse girl like me, check out one of the many horse ranches. There’s plenty that’ll take you up, no problem — if you can hoof it! Trust me, the view will blow your mind. Make sure to take plenty of pictures!

4—Cruise the coast. If crowded beaches aren’t your thing, NorCal’s got you covered. Take a drive down the coastline and you’ll find countless ones without a single soul in sight. They’re some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever see. It’s the perfect place to relax in the sand, hang out with your pal, or even explore! You never know what you might find, like this cool makeshift bench I found, right smack dab in the middle of nowhere.

5—Stroll through the Redwood forests. NorCal is home to countless national parks, but if you go to just one, you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t go to one with redwoods! These trees are some of the tallest around, growing up to 377 feet, and oldest. Some of them are 2,000 years old… and counting! Don’t take my word for it, though. You have to see it to believe it!

These are just some of the places you can go to in NorCal. Whale-watching, sailing, camping… I haven’t even scratched the surface of everything you can do! It’s got a little something for everyone. One’s thing for sure, though— I’m going to remember my trip for a very, very, very long time.

So are you a NorCal or SoCal girl? Have I convinced you to give NorCal a chance? Let us know in the comments below.