Day three of my Tennessee road trip took me high above Chattanooga to the unforgettable wonders of Lookout Mountain. From exploring the underground beauty of Ruby Falls and wandering the whimsical trails of Rock City to facing my fear of the heart-pounding Incline Railway, every stop offered breathtaking views, fascinating history, and a deeper appreciation for the people who once called this mountain home. It was a day filled with adventure, reflection, and just enough adrenaline to keep me talking about it long after the ride was over.
Author Archives: felicityarvizutakeson
From Whiskey Barrels to Mountain Storms: A Day of History, Art, and Adventure in Tennessee
Day two of my Tennessee road trip was one for the books! I toured the legendary Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg, learned the incredible story behind every whiskey barrel, and was amazed by the company’s commitment to sustainability. Then, Mother Nature reminded this Southern California girl who’s boss with a torrential Tennessee thunderstorm. The day ended with world-class art at the Hunter Museum of American Art, thoughtful reflection on the history surrounding the Walnut Street Bridge, and a delicious dinner at Mayan Kitchen. Join me for a day that perfectly blended Southern charm, fascinating history, and unforgettable experiences.
Tennessee Takes On Me: My First Day in Murfreesboro
What started as a simple overnight stop quickly became one of the most charming introductions to Tennessee I could have asked for. From rocking away the afternoon in a historic dogtrot at Cannonsburgh Village to indulging in a ridiculously good burger, discovering the cutest themed High Tea, and ending the evening with ice cream under twinkling lights while families watched Up in the park, Murfreesboro reminded me that sometimes the best travel days aren’t packed with major attractions—they’re filled with small moments that make a place feel like home. Join me as I kick off an unforgettable road trip across the Volunteer State!
The Perfect Escape to Paso Robles: Hot Springs, Wine, Tiki Cocktails & the Perfect Girls’ Getaway
Sometimes the best adventures start with one simple text from a friend.
What began as a girls’ wine-tasting weekend in Paso Robles turned into one of my favorite California getaways ever. I floated in the warm mineral waters of Franklin Hot Springs while ducks swam by and Fleetwood Mac played in the background, discovered incredible olive oil and the best Thai Tea ice cream, enjoyed fish and chips with a Guinness at an Irish pub, found an amazing tiki bar in the middle of wine country, and sipped unforgettable Cabernet at two stunning wineries.
If you’re looking for the perfect weekend escape, Paso Robles deserves a spot on your travel list. 🍷☀️✨
Rain, Reading Rooms, and Oysters: A Perfectly Cozy Day in Carmel-by-the-Sea
There are some places where rain ruins your plans. And then there’s Carmel-by-the-Sea — where rain somehow makes everything feel even more magical. My day began with one undeniable truth: absolutely no coastal storm is going to stop Californians from getting their fresh produce. The local farmer’s market was alive with bundled-up shoppers carrying flowers,Continue reading “Rain, Reading Rooms, and Oysters: A Perfectly Cozy Day in Carmel-by-the-Sea”
Snickers, Storm Clouds, and the Madness of Bixby Bridge: Driving Big Sur to Carmel-by-the-Sea
There are road trips… and then there are California Highway 1 road trips.
Today was the kind of day that reminds me why I love traveling solo. No schedule. No pressure. Just me, the open road, and two complimentary Snickers bars.
When the Road Changes the Plan: A Central Coast Adventure I Didn’t Know I Needed
There’s something magical about finally getting the reservation. For six months, I had been looking forward to camping at Limekiln State Park. If you know anything about camping in Big Sur, you know that scoring a campsite feels a little like winning the lottery. Every time I had tried to book in the past, theContinue reading “When the Road Changes the Plan: A Central Coast Adventure I Didn’t Know I Needed”
Deep Dish Showdown: Sauce vs. Structure in Chicago’s Ultimate Pizza Prizefight
Under the bright lights of a sold-out arena somewhere between a checkered tablecloth and a bubbling cast-iron pan, tonight’s main event is one for the ages. No undercards, no warmups just two titans stepping into the ring, each dripping in legacy, cheese, and pride.Under the bright lights of a sold-out arena somewhere between a checkeredContinue reading “Deep Dish Showdown: Sauce vs. Structure in Chicago’s Ultimate Pizza Prizefight”
The Moth That Opened Her Mouth Again
Death had barely cooled on her skin when the veil began to breathe. A moth fluttered open the doorway, shadows warmed like hands, and her husband bent to whisper confessions into her lifeless ear—promises trembling with love, guilt, and desire. Camilla watches as the dead woman summons him with a lover’s pull, reminding everyone in the room that passion can outlive breath… and sometimes demands a second life to finish what the first could not.
Tokyo Day Two: Senso-ji, Sushi Highs, Ice Cream Redemption & Ginza Glow-Ups
If Day One in Tokyo was a warm-up, Day Two was the main character energy we were waiting for. From ancient temples to fancy knives, from sushi so fresh it practically winked at us, to the sweet, sweet taste of ice-cream vengeance—Tokyo delivered. Hard. Senso-ji: Sensory Overload in the Best Possible Way We kicked offContinue reading “Tokyo Day Two: Senso-ji, Sushi Highs, Ice Cream Redemption & Ginza Glow-Ups”