Rhino Trekking in Kenya, Africa and Lodging with Saruni Rhino

When we were researching where to stay in Kenya, our travel agent from Scott Dunn highly recommended staying at Saruni Rhino and I’m so glad she did. I didn’t realize how the Rhino is hunted for it’s horn and poaching is a severe problem. These magnificent creatures look like dinosaurs and are so exhilarating to see in person.

Scroll down later in the post to watch our video of our trip to Saruni Rhino!

Is there something behind me?

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Where to Stay in Kenya

The Saruni Rhino is an intimate place to stay! There are only 3 rooms (also called Bandas) available, and with the location right along the river bed, you are sure to see animals visit the waterhole at all times during the day or at night. There is even a light by the waterhole at night to see who is visiting while you’re eating dinner in the main lodge.

Our Banda had a bed on a swing out front, which was perfect to relax and watch the animals approach the waterhole.

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Tracking the Rhino in Kenya, Africa

Rhinos would look like rocks with eyes - Moseku the Rhino

Our guide would take us out in the morning or afternoon to go Rhino trekking. The rangers in the conservatory would keep an eye on where the Rhinos are located, knowing their habits and behaviors after years of observation. We’d hop in the car and drive about 30 minutes to the Sera Conservatory front gate, then typically another 30 minutes to the rhinos.

After we’d meet up with the ranger trackers, we’d hop out of the car and walk with them by foot to see the rhino. Typically we would stay pretty far away so that the rhino wouldn’t feel threatened and charge at us. The rhinos seemed more scared of us anyway and would run away if they heard us coming too close. We first found Moseku, a 7-10 year old rhino.

Rhinos can hear and smell very well, but they can’t see very far. Our guide would see which way the wind was blowing by kicking up dirt to see which way it would blow so we could make sure that the rhino(s) couldn’t smell us. As we would get closer, we’d tread carefully and as quietly as possible, which can be very hard when walking on gravel and branches.

Baby Rhino at 3 years old

Our guides would find the rhinos by sound, following footprints, or finding their poop! We walked around for an hour one morning and barely saw a rhino through the bushes. We were lucky enough to find the baby named Lojipu, the 3 year old “baby” rhino. His mother left him after he was a few days old, so the rangers bottle fed him and are hoping to release him back into the wild. He was very playful and acted almost like a dog running around. We weren’t allowed to touch him, but it took everything in me not to run up and hug him.

Scroll down to watch our video of Lojipu!

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Watch our video of our trip to Saruni Rhino:

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What to Pack, Wear and Bring for Rhino Trekking

You never know when you’ll run into elephants,

What to Wear

Since you might be sitting in a vehicle for a while, wear something comfortable. I wore a t-shirt (sprayed with permethrin), bug repellent pants, hiking shoes, a hat, and brought a fleece sweater for the cool mornings and evenings. I am not an outdoorsy girl by any means, and would rather be in a dress and flip flops.

If I had skin showing I wore bug repellent, and I didn’t get one bite! Bugs love to bite me wherever we go and I was deathly afraid I was going to be eaten alive in Africa. I used Ultrathon insect repellent and it worked so well! We sprayed our clothes with Permethrin which lasts for about 7 washes. Some of our clothes were already treated and brands like Exofficio will last for up to 70 washes!


Safari Essentials:

Don’t forget to bring these with you:

1. Camera - have batteries and extra memory cards on hand just in case

2. Binoculars

3. Water (your guide might already have some)

4. Sunscreen

5. Bug repellent

6. Hat

7. Snack - granola bars are easy to bring with you

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I highly recommend this excursion if you’re on your way to Africa! Don’t miss out! We booked our trip with Scott Dunn, tell them you were recommended by Kathleen at the Sweetest Escapes!

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How to prepare and what to pack for your African Safari from clothes to cameras!

Safari Clothes while Rhino Tracking

Everything you’ll need for your Safari adventures in Africa

I was born and raised in Los Angeles in the San Fernando Valley and definitely consider myself a Valley Girl. I’m not quite the outdoorsy, sleep under the stars, go camping type. When we booked our Africa trip, I guess I didn’t realize how much of this trip would be like camping… ok… glamping!

Make fun of me all that you want as to what I wore, but just know that I was comfortable and didn’t get one bug bite in 2 weeks!

Regardless here are the items that were essential for this trip for those of you who don’t typically have adventurous clothes in your closets (and don’t want to break the bank)!

See my packing list of things you can purchase on Amazon here: Amazon African Safari Packing List

Packing Essentials for Safaris in Africa

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Packing Clothes for 2 Weeks in East Africa for Safaris

Everything I researched before we left suggested to wear layers which wasn’t helpful because that led me to all kinds of questions: What kind of layers? How many layers are really necessary? I now have those answers! In the morning it is chilly. I wore a short-sleeved t-shirt, a long-sleeved cotton pullover that was treated with bug repellant. Josh runs a little warmer so he had one of his long-sleeved safari Columbia shirts on and was fine.

More neutral, camouflage like colors are recommended but camouflage itself is not allowed as it is military wear only! We stuck to more beige, greens, and grays as you want to blend in to not scare away the animals. Also, they say blue and black attract the Tsetse fly, which is a disgusting fly that can bite you and give you some terrible disease. Bring bug repellent and treat your clothes with permethrin.

We treated our clothes with permethrin by spraying them before we left. Some clothing brands sell permethrin-treated shirts and pants, like Exofficio. Check the label, but most pre-treated clothes will last up to 70 washes. If you treat them yourself, the permethrin should last at least 7 washes.

All of our lodges did our laundry once a day, which was included with our booking. Make sure your lodge will do laundry for you in advance. The only thing they didn’t wash was women’s underwear since men were doing the laundry. I heard they don’t always have the cleanest water at times, but we didn’t have a problem. Most lodges will wash in the morning and hang dry so you don’t have to worry about anything shrinking.

Safari Clothes to Pack

My clothing packing list for 2 weeks in Africa (Josh packed very similar):

1. 5 T-shirts (treated with permethrin) - Josh packed 4 quick-dry T-shirts and 2 safari Columbia shirts

2. 2 Long-sleeved shirts - not too heavy, I recommend the Exofficio bug repellant pullover, I also had a fleece pullover because I get cold easily

3. 5 pairs of pants/leggings - I packed one pair of Hiking Pants - convertible ones are great if its really hot

4. 4 pairs of socks - including 2 pairs of Hiking socks

5. 5 pairs of underwear

6. 3 bras

7. Hiking shoes - high tops are better for your ankle but not necessary

8. Rain Jacket - lightweight and packs into a little pouch

9. Sun hat or baseball cap - get something snug so it doesn’t fly off when on safari

safari clothes

Tips for Toiletries

I recommend packing lightly as we took about 2 showers a day, I definitely did not go full make-up every day.

1. Sunscreen - ThinkSport is our fave

2. Bug repellent - Ultrathon is a lotion and lasts 12 hours

3. Don’t bring manicure scissors. They were confiscated at the airport :(

4. All the lodges had shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, so I left mine at home

5. Hairdryer - some lodges had a hairdryer and others didn’t. They usually had restrictions to use them at a certain time too, check with your lodge if you can’t live without one.

Everything listed above fit into my $20 Eddie Bauer duffle bag! Why did I pack a duffle bag? This bag is very lightweight and according to our small plane’s regulations, we couldn’t have anything with wheels.

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Pack Safari clothes and Cameras. You never know when you’ll see elephants!

What to Pack for a day on a Safari

Since you might be sitting in a vehicle for a while, wear something comfortable. I wore a t-shirt (sprayed with permethrin), bug repellent pants, hiking shoes, a hat, and brought a fleece pullover for the cool mornings and evenings. I am not an outdoorsy girl by any means, and would rather be in a dress and flip flops.

1. Binoculars

2. Phones 

3. Cameras

4. Hat

5. Sunglasses - protect from wind, dirt, and sun!

6. Apply sunscreen to your face and chest - ThinkSport is our fave

7. Bug repellent - Ultrathon is a lotion and lasts 12 hours

8. Wear something comfortable - I’d wear a t-shirt and safari pants or leggings

9. Sweater for cool mornings or late afternoons

10. Some vehicles will have chargers with USB and international plug - bring cables for charging

11. A blanket is usually in the vehicle 

12. Pack snacks and water - our lodge provided a meal most of the time. We packed some granola bars, you never know how long you’ll be out there!

If I had skin showing I wore bug repellent, and I didn’t get one bite! Bugs love to bite me wherever we go and I was deathly afraid I was going to be eaten alive in Africa. I used Ultrathon insect repellent and it worked so well! We sprayed our clothes with Permethrin which lasts for about 7 washes. Some of our clothes were already treated and brands like Exofficio will last for up to 70 washes!

Camera Gear for Safaris

My favorite part! We took our camera gear seriously and came back with some amazing photos and high-quality videos that we will have forever and ever.

• Sony a7rii with a 70-300mm lens on it to get close shots of animals further away

• Sony 6500 with a 10-18mm lens for wider shots

• We are obsessed with the DJI Osmo Pocket Camera that has a stabilizing gimbal for amazing 4K footage, panorama shots, and the ability to track what you are shooting! It’s replacing our GoPro. This captured Josh being pushed by a gorilla as Josh was falling and the gorilla was jumping!

• iPhone for animals up close and for social media quick posts. I liked recording a couple of videos on my phone then uploading to my social media stories later at the lodge.

See my packing list of things you can purchase on Amazon here: Amazon African Safari Packing List

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See all AFRICA POSTS or try a few of these:

Before Summer Ends, You MUST Visit Ice Cream Alley at Smorgasburg LA

We kicked off the Ice Cream Alley season at Smorgasburg LA on National Ice Cream Day, make sure you stop by for a scoop before Labor Day! Let me give you the who, what, where, and when!

*******THIS SUNDAY, Aug 11, 2019 - APPLE PAY x ICE CREAM ALLEY TAKEOVER THIS SUNDAY********

This Sunday, Apple Pay is taking over Ice Cream Alley at Smorgasburg LA to bring you 40% off at select vendors featuring sweets & treats! Stroll on down to find discounts from all sorts of vendors like:

• BuddyPops

• Churro Boss

• Madame Shugah

• McConnell’s Ice Cream

• Nana Pops

• Smoreology

• Sweet n Hollow

• Wanderlust Creamery

Plus, more TBA! Just like the rest of Smorgasburg LA, Ice Cream Alley is completely free to enter.  Just pay for the sweets and treats once inside. See you in Ice Cream Alley!

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WHO IS AT ICE CREAM ALLEY?

Ice Cream Alley typically includes the Smorgasburg veterans: Wanderlust Creamery, Sweet Rose Creamery, Buddy Pops (vegan), Donut Friend, Afters Ice Cream, Smoreology and more!

McConnell’s visits often as well!

We loved trying vendors we haven’t tried before like Blast and Sweet ‘N Hollow. Their chimney cakes are SO GOOD!

Oreo for Real? Chimney cake from Sweet ‘n Hollow

Total Recall sundae from Blast

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Ice Cream Alley entrance

WHEN IS ICE CREAM ALLEY OPEN?

Ice Cream Alley typically opens starting on National Ice Cream Day and runs through Labor Day.

Smorgasburg is open every Sunday year round from 10AM-4PM and some of the ice cream vendors are regulars!

It’s ALWAYS free to get in, you just have to pay the vendors for your items!

What a typical Sunday looks like at Smorgasburg LA

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WHERE IS ICE CREAM ALLEY (AND WHERE CAN YOU PARK)?

Address: 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Located in Downtown LA, you can park at ROW DTLA and free parking for an hour! Yes, it’s true, easy and parking in Downtown Los Angeles! There is a giant structure if you enter off of S Alameda and Center St, I recommend going to a higher floor so you don’t run into those waiting for someone to pull out.

Don’t forget your ice cream purse!

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WHAT IS SMORGASBURG LA?

Smorgasburg LA is a great place to eat, really! SO MANY vendors selling anything you could think of: BBQ, burgers, fish, french fry station, grilled cheese, pizza, tacos, Indian food, Korean food, falafels, churros, donuts, ice cream, popsicles… literally everything!

Smorgasburg is the largest weekly open-air food market in America, with markets in New York and Los Angeles attracting 50,000 people each weekend to eat from a hundred local vendors.

See which vendors are attending next weeks Smorgasburg here: Vendors

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More things to do in LA here:

7 Best Kept Secret Wineries to Visit in Napa, California - with map!

Updated January 21, 2026

Del Dotto Venetian Estate Winery - Prettiest Winery in Napa Valley

7 Most Beautiful Wineries to go Wine Tasting in Napa, California

If you’re looking for the most beautiful wineries in Napa Valley, this guide focuses on wineries that stand out for their scenic vineyard views, unique architecture, and unforgettable settings. These are the wineries that feel just as special as they look—perfect for photos, relaxed tastings, and memorable Napa Valley experiences.

*Updated January 2026 to reflect current winery experiences and reservation policies.*

Napa Valley is my FAVORITE place for wine tasting and there are so many wineries to visit! Napa is located about 2 hours North of San Francisco and is considered part of wine country in Northern California. I LOVE WINE which makes it very difficult to figure out where to go in Napa since there are so many great options!

These Napa Valley wineries were selected not only for their great wine but also for their picture-perfect settings and scenic vineyard views — ideal for travelers who want more than just a tasting flight, but Instagram-worthy experiences and unforgettable landscapes.

I've not only done my own extensive research in personal tastings, so I have made this awesome map so you can see how close the vineyards are: 

If you’re planning a trip to Napa, make sure to check out our Ultimate Napa Valley Travel Guide, it has everything you need to know from hotels to wineries to restaurants! Save it for later for sure!

Are you wondering where to stay in Napa and Sonoma? See our full reviews and how much we loved staying at the Cabernet House and ANDAZ NAPA in Downtown Napa, as well as the Hyatt Regency in Sonoma! My absolute favorite was the Alila in St Helena, they had bath tubs and fire pits on their guest room balconies!

Please see our related posts: HOW TO SPEND A WEEKEND WINE TASTING IN NAPA and THE BEST WINERIES IN SONOMA COUNTY which also coincides with this map!

Don’t leave for Napa without these essentials (see more in our Napa Winter Essentials Post or our Napa Packing Checklist post):

What Makes a Winery Worth Visiting in Napa Valley

• Vineyard views & landscape

• Unique architecture & tasting rooms

• Outdoor spaces & gardens

• Photogenic features (arches, fountains, vineyards)

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Now, onto the best wineries for first timers in Napa!

Chappellet's vineyard on Pritchard Hill from the midst of Molly Chappellet's garden! Photo Courtesy of Chappellet

CHAPPELLET WINERY - Best Winery with Views in Napa

Addresses: Pritchard Hill Location 1581 Sage Canyon Rd, St Helena, CA 94574 (in the mountains with breath taking views) or their Sonoma Location 27 East Napa St, Suite A, Sonoma, CA 95476 (wine tasting room)

• Reservations Required?: Yes, book your wine tasting/tour here: Chappellet.com - Ask for Theo, she’s the best!

• Cost?: $$$ Tour and tastings start at $125 per person, the wine is worth every penny

• Food?: Cheese & Crackers

 I like to look for wineries that aren’t as mainstream, that might have a nice view, and great wine. My research this year found Chappellet atop Pritchard Hill with stunning views and some of the best red wine I’ve ever had! And I love my reds! I loved the history of the land and learning about the Chappellet family, owners of this breathtaking winery. We had such an amazing experience, I can’t wait to go back! 

See our full review here: Chappellet Winery Review

Chappellet Winery

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Mumm Napa Best Vineyard Views

MUMM NAPA - Best Vineyard Views in Napa Valley

Address: 8445 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558

• Reservations Required?: Reservations are recommended but not required for fewer than six guests. Limited walk-in seating is available on a first-come first-served basis. Visit this link to book you reservation https://www.mummnapa.com/wine-tastings-and-tours/

• Cost?: $$ Tastings start around $48 on the patio/salon; Tours are $125

• Food?: Cheese/Crackers and snacks

Mumm Champagne is one of my favorites and the winery with vineyard views didn’t disappoint. I loved my visit and tasting so much, I even joined their wine club. The grounds are beautiful and the staff is very friendly. I can't wait to come back again and again! 

We walked up around 11a without a reservation and were seated immediately. Since it was December and on the cooler side, we opted to sit in the salon for our tasting.

Although this is more of a popular brand name, I had to include it because it’s my favorite!

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Bunny Foo Foo at Hall Wines Vineyard

HALL WINES Napa Valley modern winery with vineyard views

Address: 401 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574 (St Helena Location)

• Reservations Required?: Reservations recommended, walk-ins welcome. Groups 7+ please contact in advance.

• Cost?: $$$ Tastings: $40, Tours starting at $60

• Food?: Not really

I was excited for Hall since they specialize in Cabernet Sauvignon, winning many awards for their 100 point cabs! Also, not going to lie, I love bunny foo foo, especially when he is holding a light saber (Star Wars was released in theaters that weekend). Speaking of, they had amazing art throughout the winery, in the gardens, in the tasting room, everywhere!

This vineyard had more of a modern flair with an artistic eye, making it more unique. Their tasting bar was setup on the second floor near floor to ceiling windows with spectacular vineyard views. And we witnessed another beautiful sunset..

Related: See more St Helena Vineyards in our Curated Christmas in Napa: A Luxury 3-Day Guide to St. Helena & Yountville Post!

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LARKMEAD VINEYARDS WINERY - Unique Winery in Napa Valley

Larkmead Winery - patio vineyard views

Address: 1100 Larkmead Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515

• Reservations Required?: Yes, https://www.larkmead.com/visit/ Book in advance!

• Cost?: $$$ About $90 for a tasting; Bottles start at $75

• Food?: Not that I could see, just lots of wine!

Their website says it best: "Surrounded by the serenity of our beautiful vineyard, each visit to Larkmead is personal and unique. Guests enjoy a private guided tour of the winery followed by an in-depth tasting with a dedicated member of our team. Our cellar library holds over 2,000 bottles spanning two centuries." Their cabernets were smooth and rich (and perfect).

Wine is served in fancy Zalto glasses which run about $75 a pop!

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CASTELLO Di AMOROSA - Scenic Winery Castle in Napa

CASTELLO Di AMOROSA Wins Scenic Winery in Napa Valley and Kid Friendly

Address: 4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515

• Reservations Required?: Yes, you must have a reservation in advance.

• Cost?: $$$ Starts at $45 just to get into the castle and comes with a tasting. Designated Drivers also need to pay an entrance fee, even if they aren't drinking! There are guided tours and food pairings as well.

• Food?: Yes, see the Royal Pairings Menu

• Kid Friendly! It is $25 for kids to join but they will be entertained!

This 13th Century Tuscan inspired castle is picture perfect scenery for a winery! You can visit the knight’s hall and their flagship cabernet sauvignon is a must-try. Animals from goats to chickens surround the castle, including some gorgeous peacocks! Not something you see every day in Napa.

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Domaine Carneros looks like an elegant French Chateau

DOMAINE CARNEROS is the most Elegant Winery in Napa Valley

Address: 1240 Duhig Rd, Napa, CA 94559

• Reservations Required?: Yes, Reserve or call 707.257.0101 ext 150, daily 9-5 PST

• Cost?: $$ Daily tastings start at $45, Tours are $125 see more info here: Visit Domaine Carneros

• Food?: Snacks are available, food pairing is an option here.

The French Chateau esthetic at Domaine Carneros is utterly breathtaking! Walking up through the garden among the waterfalls feels like you galavanted across the world to a European vineyard! We made a reservation in advance and were seated right away. I love Champagne and the sparkling wine here was to die for. Since it was my birthday, the waiter was so kind to bring out a bottle of their best reserve wine, Le Reve, and give us a taste!

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Del Dotto Wine Caves

Del Dotto Venetian Estate Winery - Prettiest Winery in Napa Valley

Address: 1445 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574

• Reservations Required?: Yes, Reserve here or call: (707) 963-2134

• Cost?: $$$ Bar Tasting – $75 or Cave Experience & Barrel Tasting (90 min) $120 per person

• Food?: From house-cured salumi and slow braised meats to vegetables from their garden and Grandma Dee’s handmade ravioli, Chef Joshua and the entire culinary team collaborate on a unique menu that embodies the season and pairs perfectly with the wines.

The tasting was more expensive than other vineyards, but it included cheese, bread and olive oil! I highly recommend venturing into their gorgeous Venetian caves known as the tour with barrel tasting. Check out that chandelier! The tasting room is beautiful decked out with venetian paintings, tiling, marble pillars and expensive wines making it the prettiest winery in Napa!

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Do you have any wineries that we need to add to our list? Let us know in the comments below!

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 Need another glass? Try some more:

How to Make Your Apple Watch Stylish with JORD! Enter our FREE giveaway!

JORD WATCHBAND

This blog uses affiliate links. If you’d like to purchase a recommended product, please use the link to support this blog. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, it simply allows me to continue creating these posts. Thank you so much for your love and support!

***GIVEAWAY ALERT!***

ENTER OUR CONTEST FOR A FREE BAND FROM OUR PARTNER, JORD! Contest runs July 21st-Aug 21st 2019!

Click here to enter to WIN your own FREE JORD Apple Watch Band:

www.jordwatches.com/g/thesweetestescapes

I am a huge fan of technology and always want the latest gadgets and tech accessories! I’m constantly on my computer, iPad, and iPhone when it comes to planning trips or finding the nearest ice-cream spots to my location! 

One gadget I never thought I needed was an Apple Watch... until I got one from Josh for my birthday! Not only does it *attempt* to keep me on time with reminders and notifications, but we love tracking our steps on trips to see how many miles we walked whether it’s walking around with elephants in Thailand or walking the beach with the flamingos in Aruba! 

I guess my initial turn-off to the Apple Watch was the appearance of how they looked on your wrist, the Apple Watch Bands aren’t very attractive. 

Luckily, I found my favorite new accessory via JORD - they have an amazing collection of wooden and leather bands for the Apple Watch! Hallelujah! These bands are handcrafted and have a variety of unique designs for men and women. I ordered the Speckled Rose Leather Band so I had something that looked nice for the office or everyday use like traveling and eating ice cream! The color is perfect so that it never looks dirty and it is super durable! 

Even though this band was gifted to me, all thoughts are sincere and my own!

Don’t have an Apple Watch? No sweat! JORD also offers a fantastic selection of beautiful wrist watches made from all kinds of different woods and colors as well as metal or leather bands. Some are fancy with Swarovski crystals! I love a good sparkle. Check out their Instagram for more inspiration!

Does the don’t judge a book by its cover apply to this? Not quite.

Fun fact: JORD is pronounced "yode"; it is a Norse word which means "earth". You are now cultured for today. 

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FREE GIVEAWAY

Since I’m such a fangirl, my friends at JORD have offered to give one of my friends (I consider all readers my friends 😃) the opportunity to WIN a FREE band! 

***GIVEAWAY ALERT! ENTER OUR CONTEST FOR A FREE BAND FROM OUR PARTNER, JORD! Contest runs July 21st-Aug 21st 2019!

Click here to enter to WIN a FREE band: www.jordwatches.com/g/thesweetestescapes***

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Wooden Wrist Watch

Wooden Wrist Watch

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Ice Cream Review: Ice Love You Ice Cream in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Ice Love You Ice Cream

• Location: 5"N Rachadamnoen Rd Soi 7, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

• Website/Menu: Ice Love You Facebook

• Price/Value: Best value is to get the tower - 3 scoops!

• Vegan Options: Lots of vegan options

When we were in Thailand, we made a trek across Chiang Mai (literally 3 miles) to try out this superhero ice cream themed cafe and it was tasty! 

"Make all things with love," was their motto and they meant it. 

The theme of this place seemed to be anything that is trendy and popular goes. There were superheroes and minions everywhere. I work for Marvel, so I'm used to seeing Marvel characters but this place was interesting. Spiderman and Captain America seemed to be the most popular.

Their menu was large and confusing with 270 different flavors. It took me 20 minutes to figure out what I wanted! I had never seen so many flavors in my life! The man who owned the shop made all the flavors. I asked which ones were the best or most popular but they all had a tea or weird flavor. I just wanted regular ice cream today, however, all of their ice cream was vegan. Josh is still convinced this is not real ice cream.

Josh and I both went for the Ice love you tower - 3 scoops of ice cream with cereal at the bottom! In the picture below, on the right: Spider-Man (sorbet), mint chip, Chocolate almond. Tower on the left: Vanilla cookies and cream and milo chocolate.

The mint chocolate ice cream was a blue color instead of a mint color, regardless, it was still delicious! I have to admit, I was nervous when I found out it was vegan but it all worked out! :-)

If you're in Thailand, check out the Ice Love You Café in Chiang Mai before or after going to the Doi Suthep! 

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Ice Cream Review: Ginger's Divine Ice Creams

Ginger's Divine Ice Creams

• Location: 12550 W. Washington Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90066

• Website: gingersicecream.com

• Pricing: Great value for amazing homemade ice cream

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options

This sign should say AMAZING ICE CREAM MADE HERE! I discovered the best-kept secret on the Westside called Ginger's Divine Ice Creams. 

Ginger’s Ice Cream Front - love the yellow umbrellas

I had driven by a few times and those bright yellow umbrellas caught my eye. I was surprised to see an ice cream shop I hadn't heard of! 

Bird scooter

ALSO, we traveled by Bird scooter for the first time! SO FUN! It was so easy, all we did was download the app, scan the QR code and boom we were good to go. Get your first ride free with the code: AQYZOQ. Careful, they go pretty fast! 

Ginger’s Ice Cream Counter of Goodies

I did a little research and found out that Ginger goes to local farmer's markets to find the freshest fruits, nuts and spices for her ice creams and baked goods. Apparently she lives local too! Hope to meet her someday! She even has options for our vegan friends! 

There were tons of options - cones, sundaes, popsicles, cookies, ice cream sandwiches... I figured since it was my first time, I'd go with a classic ice cream cone.

With so many unique flavors to choose from, I tried a couple of course, and was beyond satisfied with the strawberry rhubarb crumble and blood orange. AND they were both PINK! 

Strawberry rhubarb crumble and blood orange

Josh went with cookies and cream and salted caramel tuxedo (it has chocolate chunks)! 

Cookies and cream and salted caramel tuxedo

Run over to Ginger's Divine (savory, enticing, delightful, wonderful) ice creams as soon as you can! 

Ice cream cone - strawberry rhubarb crumble and blood orange

In a hurry? Get a quart, pint, or pop to go! 

Pints to go

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Want some more ice cream? Me too! Check these places out:

10 Things You Must See and Do at Star Wars Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland

UPDATED Sept 21, 2019…

I’ve always liked Star Wars, but Josh is a much bigger fan than I am! Galaxy’s Edge before is almost like walking onto a movie set but as you see the characters walking around and the cast members acting like you’re on another planet, this place becomes real! Here are 10 things you can’t miss in Disneyland’s newest galaxy far far away!

Click here for a map: Disneyland Star Wars Land - Galaxy’s Edge Map

1. Build and design your very own Light Saber!

   Get in line as soon as you can so you can get a reservation to come back later. You can bring a friend in with you to build it. These light sabers might be a bit pricey at $200, however it is quite the experience. First you select your theme to your light saber and you’re instructed to come back later wearing your pin since light sabers are only made by Jedis. Cast members will often refer to it as scrap metal since you build your saber in the junk yard! Tristan was our guild and put on quite the performance.

Don’t forget to pack these guys:

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Blue Milk at Galaxy’s Edge

2. Try the Blue Milk!

Do you remember the scene from Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi when Luke squeezes gross milk from the udder of a female Thala-siren (basically an alien sea cow) and gulps it? Yeah, it was disgusting. I guess there was a similar scene with milk from another creature that was cut from the first Star Wars movie, A New Hope. Anyhoo, we liked the Blue Milk since it was much sweeter than the Green Milk but give both a try!

Menu Descriptions (Both are $7.99):

• Blue Milk: Plant-based Dairy blend of Coconut and Rice Milk with alluring fruity characteristics.

• Green Milk: Plant-based Dairy blend of Coconut and Rice Milk with zippy citrus and tropical characteristics.

The consistency is strange, it’s like a smoothie, or somewhere between a slushee and a milkshake! The Green Milk tasted almost floral like, as if it were lavender ice cream or something. As Kimmy Schmidt would say, “Ew that’s a smell!”
PRO-TIP: Make sure you mobile order! It’s not worth waiting in line!

The Blue Milk scene:

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Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Cove ride

3. Be a pilot on the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Cove ride

We went on this ride 4 times and tried all three positions: Pilot, Gunner, and Engineer. The pilot that sits in the front left steers the ship up and down and also gets to throw you into light speed! I was nervous it would be hard, but it’s a slower move so that you have more time to react (and hopefully not crash).

Pro-tip: If the line is long, there is a single rider option, but you will most likely be an engineer. 30-45 minutes is a decent wait time if the park is crowded. Late at night is a good time to go!

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4. Find Chewie or other beloved characters from the Star Wars series!

Characters were roaming around instead of standing somewhere to pose for pictures!

PRO-TIP: I started to take a selfie near Chewie and he came up and photo bombed me!

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5. Watch fireworks light up the sky over the Millennium Falcon!

Fireworks usually blast off nightly around 9:30p. The only bad part is, you can’t hear the music the fireworks is playing to like you can throughout the rest of the park!

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6. Explore the shops, you’ll never know what you might find!

There are a few different themed shops - pet store, toy shop, clothing… Here in Galaxy’s Edge, these Merchants are referred to as: Resistance Supply, Creature Stall, Toydarian Toymaker, Black Spire Outfitters, and Jewels of Birth. I think that sums it up.

PRO-TIP: The creature stall has a sleeping creature! Give it a visit!

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Build a droid!

7. Build a droid!

Take home your very own droid by assembling one in the Droid Depot! You can make a BB8 or even your own R2, they make great companions!

PRO-TIP: Visit R2D2 here - He’s full size and for sale!

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8. Visit the Antique Shop!

So many worldy and weirdly things here! Fun things to purchase and others are fun to look at.

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9. Get a soda!

For only $4.25 you get a coke and a souvenir! Your favorite soda comes in a unique Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge package! Try a Coca-cola, Diet Coke or Sprite!

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10. Get a treat at Docking Bay 7!

If you’re traveling to a Galaxy Far Far Away… Batuu is the last stop before entering Wild Space. You must try the Batuu-bon, a decadent chocolate cake with white chocolate mousse and coffee custard. The green sponge-like cake tasted fruity and the coin was a piece of chocolate! 

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BONUS: Have a drink at Oga’s Cantina

Reservations are recommended, very seldom do they have walk-ins. Make your reservations up to 14 days in advance or same-day reservations will be made available each day at 7:00 AM Pacific Time for visits that day, subject to availability. Here is the reservation site: Reservations for Oga’s Cantina

Try the Fuzzy Taun Taun… it’ll give you a tingly feeling… literally! The Chardonnay on tap is BLUE!

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Ice Cream Review: Afters Ice Cream - Colorful and Witty!

Cookie monster and Frozen Hot Cocoa Ice Cream Cone

Afters Ice Cream

Locations: All over Southern California find one near you!

Website: https://www.aftersicecream.com/

Menu: Afters Flavors

Value: Ice cream is priced a little higher than most shops (2 scoops for $6.50) however handcrafted ice cream usually is! They also have very pretty colored sprinkles! Worth every penny to me!

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Afters Woodland Hills

Afters is very trendy, more of a Millennial ice cream spot with relatable quotes. I love the unique flavors offered and their descriptions of each. Also, they have special collaborations like their Rick and Morty flavors.

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Afters Flavors and Menu

Afters Ice Cream Flavors

I tried most of the flavors and I think the employee serving me was definitely annoyed, but the scoop shop was empty!

Afters Ice Cream Menu

Also, Afters is home of the Milky bun, which is a warm glazed bun (donut like) stuffed with ice cream and whatever you want in it. See their Instagram for inspiration!

Afters ice cream flavors

After trying so many different kinds such as Cookie Butter (tastes like trader Joes), Peanut Butter Smores, Mint Monster (very minty) and Milk and Cereal, I finally made my selection… Cookie Monster (love a good cookies and cream, especially when its BLUE) and Frozen Hot Cocoa (it even had marshmallows in it)!

Cookie monster and Frozen Hot Cocoa Ice Cream Cone

I love their mottos and strongly stand by them:

I’d come again since they switch out their flavors now and again! Adding the Milky Bun to my list. As they say, "Less talk, more ice cream!"

Less Talk More Ice Cream

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Ice Cream Review: The Baked Bear - Dreamy Ice Cream Sandwiches

The Baked Bear

• Locations: California, Arizona, Maryland, Oklahoma - find a Baked Bear near you!

  Location visited for this post: Pacific Beach - 4516 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109

• Website: BakedBear.com

• Price and Value: Great price for 2 cookies and a LARGE scoop of ice cream!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5

• Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️  (4/5 Ice cream and cookie combo is to die for)

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegan/Gluten-Free option available

• Take-out: Local delivery service available

Ice Cream Sandwiches with blue cookie monster ice cream

Cookies, brownies, and blue ice cream are the core elements of this establishment! The Baked Bear has over a dozen original-recipe cookies and ice cream flavors, so you can customize your favorite combo. They’ll even roll the cookie in toppings for the picture perfect Instagram post!

Entrance to The Baked Bear

The Baked Bear Menu

After a long drive from LA, we were on the hunt for some good ice cream. Baskin Robbins was an option, but we wanted something more unique than that. We came across The Baked Bear seeing that they had homemade ice cream… and cookies!

The Baked Bear Menu

How to Order

The cookies are made from scratch daily to make a custom ice cream sandwich! You can even pick two different cookies for your top and bottom. We ended up getting The Baked Bear Combo – M&M cookie (Josh got the peanut butter cookie), brownie, and bear batter ice cream (tastes like cake batter).

Custom Ice Cream Sandwich at the Baked Bear

You can also order cookies by the dozen. Another option to try next time is a DONUT ice cream sandwich! That's right, I said it, ice cream in the middle of a donut! 

Cookie Monsters only sign! So cute!

I also liked that they had a convenient lot to park in (right in front of Urban Outfitters).

Will come back! 🍩🍩🍩🍩🍦🍦🍦🍦

This sign is so cute! Love the colors!

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HOTEL REVIEW: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress - Orlando, Florida

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Address: 1 Grand Cypress Blvd, Orlando, FL 32836

Website: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

Hyatt Regency GRand Cypress

The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort is a great place to stay when visiting Orlando, Florida! if you’re looking to stay off Disney property but wanting to keep close to it, it’s just 15 mins from the Disney parks with free shuttles that run all day. It’s a no brainer to stay here. 

Here are some of my favorite dresses I highly recommend!

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Hotel Rooms at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

The rooms are fairly large with a nice seating area with a couch that’s also a bed! There are small balconies that aren’t really big enough to do anything on, just a nice touch. 

I love that they prepared these rooms for travelers! There were outlets everywhere and even a few USB plugs. After a long day at Disney World, my batteries were drained (physically and electronically). 

The bed had a lot of pillows, which I liked, and the mattress was on the firmer side. I usually prefer a soft mattress, but I was so tired I could have slept on a rock. 

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Hotel Bathroom at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

The bathroom was a decent size with a giant rain shower! The tiles were iridescent, looking like mermaid scales up close. That’s a win in my book! There was also a big shelf in the shower for all my toiletries. 

I loved the mirror and lighting, it was perfect for putting on my makeup and realizing I needed a few tweezers on my eyebrows! The closet was an ok size, a little small for my taste, but we managed!

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Food and Restaurants at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

There is a restaurant called the Lakehouse in the back of the lobby and down a flight of stairs that offers a decadent breakfast buffet. For $29 you can get anything you’ve dreamed for breakfast! Things like quiche, eggs, breakfast potatoes, donuts, oatmeal, BACON, waffles and pancakes made to order or even an omelette station! I really liked their coffee too, all 3 cups. They also serve lunch and dinner. 

If you’re looking for a quick to go kinda place, there’s a Market that is like a Starbucks with lattes, coffee, pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and options in the afternoon like sandwiches, wraps, and WINE! 

Market at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Orlando Florida

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Lobby at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Lobby at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Orlando Florida

The lobby is MASSIVE and has a cute little parrot by the check-in desk! You’ll also find the lobby bar on the opposite side from check-in. They have food options as well!

Parrot in the lobby of the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Orlando Florida

Beware of the elevators, it can take a while early in the morning and at night when it’s crowded. We stayed on the 14th floor and I stopped on every floor on the way down. Stairs would have been better. Luckily they have nice chairs and views while you wait on your floor!

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Resort at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

There is a ton to do here on the property which is all included in the daily resort fee.

The pool is large and even has a water slide! The pool and spa are open until midnight, however the slide closes earlier. Other activities include put put golf, kayaks, bikes, rock climbing, driving range, and a tennis court. 

Pro-tip: A lot of things are included in the resort fee, make sure you check the fine print of the paperwork given at check-in or on the desk in the room!

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Shuttles to the Walt Disney World Resort and Parks from the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Epcot Center - Walt Disney World

The shuttle service couldn’t be easier! All you need to do is check-in with the concierge in the lobby to reserve your spot on a shuttle the day before you need it. THE SHUTTLE IS FREE!!! The shuttle drops you off at the main hub (Transportation and Ticket Center) where you can take a monorail or bus to any of the Disney theme parks or hotels. You can even buy your Disney World tickets/Magic Bands here as well.

There are also shuttles for Sea World and Universal Studios, ask the concierge for more information.

Complimentary private car is available, there may be a wait for it. 

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Parking at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress

Self Parking is $10 a day or $22 a day to valet. They were working on one of the parking garages and had a discount on parking in Dec 2018. Check their website for the latest prices here: Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress.

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We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

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Ice Cream Review: Manhattan Beach Creamery

MANHATTAN BEACH CREAMERY 

• Location: 1120 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

• Website: mbcreamery.com

• Pricing: Their Sundae has the best value!

• Dietary Restrictions: Gluten Free Options Available

Ice cream and ocean views? What could be better!? 

Sunset in Manhattan Beach

On the corner of Manhattan Ave and Manhattan Beach Blvd, you fall right into those beach vibes and Manhattan Beach Creamery…

This magical place is like walking into a unicorn’s dream. I love the chandeliers and the pink sky ceiling, they add that fun girlie touch. It also reminds me of the Caesar’s Palace Forum Shops ceiling! Anyone know that reference?

Now, not only do they make and sell ice cream, Manhattan Beach Cream makes cupcakes, cookies, and many other sweet treats! 

With 28 flavors that rotate daily, it was hard to choose! I tried quite a few including Maple Bacon Crunch, Red Velvet, Smores, Taro, Salted Caramel, and even that one that looks like fruit cake in the front (it was French Macaroon)! 

Ice Cream Flavors

SO MANY TREATS! Everything looked so delicious! They are also known for the Cream’wich – an artisan ice cream sandwich made with a combination of artisan cookies from their family business, Katella Bakery. 

I wanted to try them all! Fresh-baked cookies, French macarons, chocolate dipped treats, the sweetness was endless. Their most popular treats include Oreos, graham crackers, pretzels, Rice Krispies, s’mores, marshmallows, vanilla wafers, and of course strawberries. 

We’ve gone a few times, my favorite flavors have been Heath Bar Coffee, Maple Bacon Crunch, Mocha Almond Fudge and Super Sonic (sweet cream taste, filled with lots of sprinkles). I think the best value here is a Sundae! If you don’t finish it, take it home and throw it in the freezer! 😃

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Ice Cream Review: Smitten Ice Cream

SMITTEN ICE CREAM

• Locations: Across California

• Website: Smittenicecream.com 

• Menu: Smitten Ice Cream Menu

• Pricing: It’s a little more expensive, but you are getting quality ingredients!

Smitten Ice Cream and Sprinkles

Smitten Ice Cream can be found all over California. I recently visited the El Segundo location after I went shopping and needed a snack! - UPDATE 2020: The El Segundo Location is permanently closed! :(

Smitten Ice Cream

SMITTEN ICE CREAM MENU

Smitten ice cream is made with organic milk and cream... so it’s technically good for you! 😋 The cows producing said milk are living the good life in pasture-based family farms along Sonoma and Marin counties. They don't use any preservatives or artificial anything!

Smitten Ice Cream Menu

The chocolate chip cookie dough with pretzels is to die for! That perfect salty sweet combo! 🍓There is also a Strawberry buttermilk that is pretty superb, using strawberries from local SoCal farms! 

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The BRRR Machine at Smitten Ice Cream

Brrr Machine at Smitten Ice Cream

Everything is made from scratch and made it right in front of you blending it with liquid nitrogen in their Brrr Machine! The Brrr machine is patented with double helical mixers and mega-smart software for the sweet smooth taste and texture.

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Founder Robyn Sue Fisher

As I research all ice cream places, I'm so impressed by the founders stories and their ice cream passion.

Robyn Sue Fisher is my hero! Her ice cream dream literally started as she sold ice cream on the streets of San Francisco. She was disappointed in the artificial selections of ice cream and longed to create a smooth, creamy, fresh, natural solution. While attending Stanford, she took a 2 quarter Startup Garage class giving student the opportunity to pursue their entrepreneurial ideas. After a physics professor made ice cream in class, an idea sparked and to the drawing board she went! After several years, she perfected the Brrr Machine and took it to the streets of San Francisco in a red Radio Flyer wagon. She opened the doors to her first store in 2011 and her ninth store in 2017. 

I have so much respect for Robyn and her efforts of pursuing her ice cream dreams! 

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Ice Cream Art at Smitten

Cones at Smitten Ice Cream

All cones are made in house too, wafting that irresistible smell around the radius of the shop!

Smitten Ice Cream Cones

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Smitten Ice Cream

They also have the nicest people that work there! What a treat! I'm a fan and will definitely return. Let me know if you're going! I'll join you! :-)

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Need another scoop?

Ice Cream Review: Creamistry

Creamistry - Temecula, California

• Location: 26490 Ynez Rd d, Temecula, CA 92591

  There are many locations throughout California, Arizona, Louisiana, and Texas. Find one near you: Creamistry Locations

• Website/Menu: Creamistry Menu

• Price/Value: I thought it was a little pricy but you get a pretty good sized serving!

• Specialty items: Non-dairy and Gluten Free items

Before leaving Temecula, we thought it would be nice to grab some ice cream! There weren't a lot of options but I saw there was a Creamistry, where they make their ice cream with liquid nitrogen! 

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How Creamistry Works with Liquid Nitrogen

The menu up on the board shows you all the different combinations of ice cream you can make. They have some standard creations or make your own. With more than 60 flavor and topping options, including all natural and organic choices, your fresh frozen satisfaction is guaranteed!

1. Select your size and milk base

2. Choose your flavor - classic, fruity, cereal, cake

3. Add toppings - Candies, nuts, fruits, sauces, etc.

4. Combine ingredients with liquid Nitrogen at -321 degrees. Because the liquid Nitrogen is so cold, it causes the milk particles to stay small giving a creamy smooth texture.

Because science....

My sister had coffee ice cream with almonds, look how creamy it is!

I went for an affogato which is ice cream with espresso poured over. YUM! 

Affogato

The consistency was really creamy, and it didn't melt very fast even with the hot espresso poured over. I’d come back in a heartbeat!

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Guide to the Best Ice Cream and Dessert in Maui, Hawaii - Ranked with Map

I love Maui and I love dessert, especially ice cream. I have ranked my favorite desserts below after much extensive research! 😋Don’t miss these great dessert options around the island see our handy map! You can even save it to your Google map app!

Although I’m not vegan, I’ve also included some options for my vegan friends!

Related Post: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary

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Coconut Glen’s - Road to Hana

#1 Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

• Address: Mile Marker 27 1/2 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708

• Website: http://coconutglens.com/

• Pricing/Value: Good size scoop for the value

• Vegan Options?: All vegan options!

While on the Road to Hana, make sure you stop for some ice cream! Coconut Glen makes all his ice cream from the coconuts from the Maui jungles!

See our full Ice Cream Review here: Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

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Maui Hula Grill Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich

#2 Ice Cream Sandwich at Hula Grill

• Location: Hula Grill/Barefoot Bar in Whaler’s Village - 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Menu: Hula Grill Menu

• Pricing: $11 for a giant dessert!

A monster ice cream sandwich taller than a salt shaker! Try this on for size - Hawaiian vanilla ice cream, macadamia nut brownies, whipped cream, fudge, and raspberry sauce.

See more restaurants in our 10 Best Restaurants in Maui Post

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Island Cream Co - Maui, Hawaii

#3 Island Cream Co

• Location: 305 Keawe St #511, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Website Menu/Flavors: Island Cream Co

• Value: Large scoops for under $10

• Special Options?: Non-dairy sorbets available

I'm not sure Island Cream Company just tastes better because it's in Hawaii (everything is better in Hawaii) or if it's their original recipe with the perfect mix of gelato and ice cream.

See more in our full ice cream review: ISLAND CREAM CO

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Maui Gelato Ice Cream

#4 Maui Gelato

Location: 2395 S Kihei Rd #120, Kihei, HI 96753

• Website: Maui Gelato Facebook

• Menu: Hard to find an updated menu online. See our full post here: Maui Gelato

• Pricing: Big helpings for a great price

• Non-Dairy options available

Located along the water just above Wailea in Kihei, Maui Gelato has everything ice cream you can imagine! Gelato, ice cream, affogatos (espresso poured over ice cream), floats, shakes, mochi ice cream, shave ice, waffles.

See our full review and the life lesson I learned here: Maui Gelato

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#5 Hula Pie

• Multiple Locations all over Hawaii: Hula Grill/ Barefoot Bar/ Dukes/ Leilani’s/ Kimo’s

• Pricing: Around $11 for a huge slice!

You MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top!

Hula Pie

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Shave Ice

#6 Shave Ice

A Hawaii classic! There are plenty of places to get shave ice and even food trucks on the side of the road have them! Make sure you get ice cream in the bottom, I love a good macadamia nut ice cream at the bottom of shaved ice with pineapple and coconut on top!

Favorite:

Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice (multiple locations) - 790 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761

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CHocolate Cream Pie at Monkeypod Kitchen

#7 Pie at Monkeypod Kitchen

• Locations/Menu: Kaanapali and Wailea

• Pricing: Around $11 per slice

I normally go for ice cream any chance I can get, but the Chocolate Cream Pie at Monkeypod is pretty phenomenal. Want something other than chocolate? Try their Strawberry, Banana, or Coconut Cream pies!

You can also try their Tropical Dreams Gelato & Sorbet for $7.95 with options of Tahitian vanilla, chocolate, island-hop Kona coffee, or featured flavor sorbet.

See our full Restaurant Review here: Monkeypod Kitchen

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#8 Tin Roof Chocolate Birthday Bibingka Cake

• Location: 360 PAPA PLACE STE Y, KAHULUI, HI, 96732

• Open: Monday - Saturday for lunch only

• Pricing: Cheap eats!

Chocolate Birthday Bibingka Cake 🌈💗🎂 is filled with chocolate, peanut butter, sprinkles and pop rocks! AND it’s fun to say!

TIN ROOF is a new generation mom & pop shop, owned by Internationally recognized Chef Sheldon Simeon & his wife, Janice. Raised in Hilo, Hawaii rain is a part of everyday life. Farmers markets keep buzzing, errands roll along, and garage kani ka pila never ends.

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Don’t forget these dresses!

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Ice Cream Review: Maui Gelato - Maui, Hawaii

Maui Gelato

• Location: 2395 S Kihei Rd #120, Kihei, HI 96753

• Website: Maui Gelato Facebook

• Menu: Hard to find an updated menu online. See pictures below for menu options and flavors.

• Pricing: Big helpings for a great price

• Non-Dairy options available

Located along the water just above Wailea in Kihei, they have everything ice cream you can imagine! Gelato, ice cream, affogato, floats, shakes, mochi ice cream, shave ice, waffles.

See our full guide to the BEST ICE CREAM ON MAUI

Toasted coconut gelato and Kona Pie ice cream with sprinkles of course

Although they don’t have an official website, be sure to check out their Facebook Page for menu updates. Here was the menu Fall of 2018:

Maui Gelato Shave Ice Menu

Pretty good prices for the amount you get! I’d definitely go for the LAVA FLOW combo! Maybe add a shot of rum?

Maui Gelato Menu

I was sold when I learned they serve ice cream for breakfast: Belgian waffles with so many ice cream topping combos! I’d like an affogato (espresso shots poured over ice cream) with my waffles please!

Maui Gelato Menu

Maui Gelato Flavors

All gelato and ice cream are made on Maui with love!

Roselani Ice cream served at Maui Gelato

Based on names like Haupia, Kona coffee, Kona Mud Pie, I had to look up Roselani Ice Cream to make sure this was legit Maui ice cream. Here’s what I found on the Roselani website:

In 1932 at the Maui Soda & Ice Works plant in Wailuku, Maui, Manuel Nobriga began making ice cream from scratch for local ice cream parlors. Everyone loved the velvety smooth texture and the richness of his flavors and the business grew to eventually include 1/2-gallon cartons that folks could enjoy at home.

The name Roselani is always of interest, especially to folks outside of Maui. It is the “Americanization” of the Hawaiian word Lokelani, which means “heavenly rose” and is Maui’s official flower. The red blossom is proudly displayed on Roselani® Ice Cream cartons. “It honors my grandfather’s and my father’s identity. A rose is the queen of perfection,” says Cathy (third generation)… just like the ice cream which bears its name.

Check out where to find Roselani ice cream on Maui here: Roselani Locations (available on other islands as well, but only sold in Hawaii).

With that, I was confident the ice cream is also a solid choice.

Maui Gelato Menu options

They were nice enough to let me try try so many flavors since no one else was there! After 10 minutes of looking at all my options, literally, everything sounded so good (gelato, ice cream, cup, cone, waffle bowl…), I ended up ordering Toasted Coconut gelato and Kona Pie ice cream in a cone dipped with sprinkles, of course!

My ice cream melted in the sun so quickly!

I had big dreams of taking a picture of ice cream with Maui waves in the background… As soon as we stepped outside, that sucker started melting like a snowman in summer. I ran across the street to get this picture before I wasted too much of my delicious ice cream. Lesson learned here: Life is like ice cream, enjoy it before it melts! Also, always grab extra napkins! 😆

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Ice Cream Review: Island Cream Company - Maui, Hawaii

ISLAND CREAM COMPANY

• Location: 305 Keawe St #511, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Website Menu/Flavors: Island Cream Co

• Value: Large scoops for under $10

• Special Options?: Non-dairy sorbets available

I'm not sure Island Cream Company just tastes better because it's in Hawaii (everything is better in Hawaii) or if it's their original recipe with the perfect mix of gelato and ice cream.

Located in the corner of a strip mall, this place exceeded my expectations. 

All ice creams are hand made as well as their cones, fudge and other fun toppings. Most ice creams are natural and products are bought locally.

 Bikini conscious? That's ok, try Island Cream Co's fat free sorbet! No fat and no dairy! 

Also, Hawaii is known for their shaved ice, Island Cream Co has their own Glacier Ice Station where you can make the perfect shave ice treat. 

So many fun flavors such as Maui French Toast, Hilo-Hot Chocolate, Hana Caramel Popcorn, and Chocolate Orange. I LOVE any chocolate and orange combo, I need to try and make this at home!

My favorite was the Maui-Loco filled with Macadamia nuts, chocolate chips and caramel in a creamery coconut ice cream base. So refreshing and delicious!

Maui-Loco and Chocolate Orange

Josh had to try the peanut butter of course! The Peanut Butter Pie is to die for! 

Last, try their new Sposhy treat! “Soft Glaicer Ice filled with a scoop of Island Cream--normally our famous Macadamia Nut--but you can have any flavor you want!  Topped with hand blended strawberry & mango puree---with real chunks of fresh Strawberries & Mango!  Then we give you a couple scoops of Boba Balls--cover it all with a Snow-Cap----all served on our special bamboo type plate!”

If you're in Maui, be sure to stay cool and visit Island Cream Co! 

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HOTEL REVIEW: Hyatt Regency Sarasota, Florida

Hyatt Regency Sarasota

Hyatt Regency Sarasota, Florida

Address: 1000 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236

Website: Hyatt Regency Sarasota

The Hyatt brand is always a plus for us. We’ve stayed at so many different resorts and are never disappointed. We even have a Hyatt credit card with amazing benefits! Let us know if you’re interested. It was a no brainer to pick the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, Florida, when we were in town for a wedding!

We drove in from Orlando, but there is also an airport in Sarasota and about 2 hours from Tampa. We continued onto Aruba after our stay here!

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Rooms at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota

The rooms are fairly large with a nice seating area with amazing harbor views! There are small balconies that you can sit out on and enjoy the view. 

Hyatt Regency Sarasota Balcony Views

I love that the rooms were prepared for travelers! There were outlets everywhere and even a few USB plugs. We could charge all electronics, all at once!

The bed had a lot of pillows, which I liked, and the mattress was on the firmer side. I usually prefer a soft mattress, but I was so tired I could have slept on a rock. 

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Bathroom Hyatt Regency Sarasota

The bathroom had a wired shape but lots of storage! It was nice to hold personal things like my purse and sunglasses as well as my curling iron and toiletries. I spent a lot of time in the bathroom trying a new hairdo for the wedding. Even after watching many YouTube videos, I just curled my hair and wore it down!

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Lobby Hyatt Regency Sarasota

It was nice they had COLD flavored fruit water in the lobby by the check-in desk. Even though it was December, it was still very warm outside!

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Hyatt Regency Sarasota Pool

The pool is large and a great place to sit and read a book or check out your social media feeds! The pool and spa are open from 6am to 10pm.

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Overall, the Hyatt Regency Sarasota is a great place to stay. You won’t be disappointed!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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DISNEYLAND PARIS GUIDE - Things you MUST see from a Disneyland expert!

Disneyland Paris Entrance

Everything you need to know about DISNEYLAND PARIS GUIDE - best things to do and see from a Disneyland expert!

We passed a billboard on the train that said Disneyland Paris tickets were around $80. We had one more day in Paris and thought that could be a fun way to end our vacation! Since we were with Josh's family, I really didn't think we were going to go and that it would take some convincing, but both Josh and his brother were game!  I’ve been to Disneyland in California literally hundreds of times. We’ve also been to Hong Kong Disneyland and Walt Disney World so we were excited to explore another Disney Park and see how different it was from the other parks we had been to.

Don’t forget to pack these dresses!

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HOW TO GET TO DISNEYLAND PARIS

Disneyland Paris is about 40 minutes outside of Paris, so we set out early to get there close to when it opened. For less than 8 Euro (one way), we took the RER A train from Auber to Disneyland Paris (at Marne La Vallée station). It took almost an hour and I was definitely more excited (and impatient) than the 6 year olds we shared a car with.

ENTRANCE TO WALT DISNEY STUDIOS

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WHAT'S DIFFERENT IN DISNEYLAND PARIS?

After going to Disneyland hundreds of times and Walt Disney World a handful of times, what did we need to go to Disneyland Paris for?

First of all, there are 2 parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Disneyland Park has your basics with exclusive features only in Paris: Pirates of the Caribbean, Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain: Mission 2, Haunted Manor. Walt Disney Studios Park has the newer rides: Tower of Terror, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster,  Crush's Coaster, Toy Story Land. If you only have one day here's what you should see...

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Walt Disney Studios Park:

Walt Disney Studios Paris

I thought it was weird we didn't see the Walt and Mickey Statue in the Disneyland Park, but lo and behold, there it was in the Studios Park.

WALT AND MICKEY STATUE - Hollywood Tower of Terror PARIS

BONJOUR BUZZ!

Elements were taken from both Disneyland and Disney World, but when we approached Toy Story Land and a giant Buzz Lightyear greeted us with, "Bonjour," Paris Disneyland definitely had a unique charm.

Related Post: Guide to Hong Kong Disneyland

Toy Story Land had rides for little kids, much like A Bug's Life Land in California Adventure so we didn't spend much time there. Now Walt Disney World and Hong Kong Disneyland have Toy Story land. I personally liked Hong Kong’s version of Toy Story land the best!

Down the street from Toy Story Land, there was a little bit of Car's Land, not quite like California Adventure but there were a few familiar buildings that occupied one of the street corner's including the bumper car ride, Flo's Cafe, and a gift shop.

CAR'S LAND CORNER

 Crush's Ride was a favorite at the Studios Park. It can't be found in any of the US Parks (although they should add it - preferably to California Adventure), and is a unique roller coaster type that you ride with Crush from Finding Nemo in a turtle shell along the EAC. It's fast, it spins, it's fun! We waited about an hour for it, but it was worth it (and dry).

 Much like the studios in Orlando, you could also find rides such as the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and Tower of Terror.

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Paris Disneyland Park:

SLEEPING BEAUTY'S CASTLE - Paris Disneyland

We went in October and the park was all decked out with Halloween decorations. Main street was full of spooks and pumpkins everywhere you looked!

Related Post: Halloweentime at the Disneyland Resort

In the US parks, you can enter through the gates of the castle and there are shops or restaurants within the walls. Here, you can go under Sleeping Beauty's castle and visit a DRAGON. He has a little smoke that come from his mouth and moves around.

DRAGON UNDER SLEEPING BEAUTY'S CASTLE

Space Mountain: Mission 2 is one of my favorite rides but Paris wins in my book! It not only takes place dark in space inside, but also goes outside AND HAS A LOOP! So nice, we did it twice. Compared to the other Disney parks, this one is the best. Make sure you grab a fastpass!

SPACE MOUNTAIN MISSION 2

 As a huge fan of the Indiana Jones ride in California Disneyland, I was surprised when we came across Paris' Indiana Jones et le Temple du Péril. It was still a thrill ride, but it was an outdoor roller coaster (kinda like Everest at Animal Kingdom). Space Mountain Mission 2 was better if you're looking to go one one or the other.

We also enjoyed the Pirates of the Caribbean. Of all the different versions, this one seemed to tell the story the best.

You could also find other Disneyland classics such as Big Thunder, Small World, Haunted Mansion, Autopia, Buzz Lightyear, and Dumbo. In Frontierland, they have the Lucky Nugget, which I'm used to seeing the Golden Nugget at home! 

Haunted Mansion

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FOOD AT DISNEYLAND PARIS

We ate at the Hakuna Matata Restaurant because we were hungry and it was raining. They had chicken tenders and fries that were pretty good for Disney Park foo. They had more options but all we needed at that time was basic food.

Of course we had to have ice cream so we indulged in some ice cream sandwiches. Yum! 

 Overall, if you're a Disney fan, I highly recommend it!

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DISNEYLAND PARIS GUIDE

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7 Best Restaurants in Lake Tahoe with Stunning Lake Views (with map)

Guide to Amazing Lake Tahoe Restaurants with Lake Views (with map)!

As creatures of habit, we go to Lake Tahoe almost every year and hit up some of the same restaurants. Why? Because these restaurants have amazing food and the BEST views of Lake Tahoe! Some of these are a little pricey so I gave a scale of one to four dollar signs ($) to note the level of expense.

Here is a map made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation (and it’s free)!

Map courtesy of Wanderlog travel planner

Let’s start with Breakfast and Lunch…

Riva Grill on the Lake

Address: 900 Ski Run Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

• Price: $$

• Lunch Cuisine: American - Salads / Burgers / Pizza / Sandwiches

• Menu: Riva Menu

• Reservations: Opentable.com

For lunch and cocktails, you must go to Riva Grill on the Lake and try a Wet Woody. Yes, I just said that. They are famous for these rum drinks and these woody's sure pack a punch! They have great burgers (my fave) and pizzas (believe it or not) and is the perfect place for larger parties. Riva Grill is also open for breakfast on the weekends and I have my eye on the Eggs Benedict!

Lunch options are great, ask for a table on the deck, it’s open all summer long with amazing views of the lake. 

Edgewood Lake Tahoe - Hotel, Spa, & Golf Course

Address: 100 Lake Pkwy, Stateline, NV 89449

Brooks Bar and Deck

• Price: $$$

• Lunch Specialty: American - Sandwiches / Salads

• Menu: Brooks Menu

• Reservations: Opentable.com

We enjoy burgers, sandwiches and cocktails on the patio at Brooks Bar and Deck for lunch. My Favorite is the Spicy Marinated Chicken Sandwich complete with jack cheese, avocado, chili aioli, and served with tater tots! Josh loves the French Dip with Prime Rib. YUM!

Don’t forget dessert - Warmed Chocolate Brownie served with salted caramel ice cream!

Breakfast is an option here before or after your golf game (or if you just want to watch other people play golf). So many classic options from waffles to omelettes.

Make a reservation ahead of time, they are on OpenTable.com.

Edgewood Restaurant 

• Price: $$$$

• Specialty: Seafood / Steaks / Grill

• Menu: Edgewood Menu

• Reservations: Opentable.com

PHOTO PROVIDED FROM THE RESTAURANT’S WEBSITE

Located on the Edgewood golf course and right on the lake, its the perfect spot for dinner at sunset. Since it’s only open for dinner, try and get there just before sunset to see the sun disappear across the lake through their gorgeous floor to ceiling windows. The interior looks like a luxurious lodge with views of the lake, mountains and pines! The lounge and bar open an hour before the restaurant opens and stay open an hour after it closes.

We’re never disappointed by the steaks, the filet is a favorite! There are plenty of fish options as well!

19 Kitchen & Bar - Harvey's Lake Tahoe

Address: 18 US-50, Stateline, NV 89449

• Price: $$$$

• Specialty: Seafood / Steaks / Grill

• Menu: 19 MENU

• Reservations: Opentable.com

This restaurant is located atop of the Harvey's Hotel on the 19th floor with great steaks and amazing birds eye views of the lake. We usually go right around sunset and have drinks in the bar or if we’re dining, we request a table by the window. I love the Ribeye steak with their fabulous green peppercorn sauce served with garlic mashed potatoes.

Also, don't miss out on their cotton candy for dessert!

Friday’s Station Steak & Seafood Grill

Address: Harrah's Hotel - 19-29 Lincoln Hwy, Stateline, NV 89449

• Price: $$$$

• Specialties: Seafood / Steaks / Grill

• Menu: Friday’s Menu

• Reservations: Opentable.com

Located on the top floor of Harrah's, this Lake Tahoe fine dining gem features a dramatic entrance, a 1,000-bottle display wine cellar and magnificent views from every table. Favorite meal: Prime Rib with mashed potatoes. Is your mouth watering too?

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DON’T FORGET DESSERT!!!!

Susie Scoops Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt

Address: 869 Tahoe Blvd, Incline Village, NV 89451

• Price: $

• Specialty: Dessert/ Ice Cream/ Frozen Yogurt

This cute little ice cream store is located in Incline Village and attached to the toy shop, Village Toys! Inside the walls are pink with ice cream lights and decorations everywhere like an old fashioned ice cream shop. I wanted to live there, it reminded me of my childhood bedroom. My phone malfunctioned and I don’t have any of my pictures from this day, except for the one below!

Susie Scoops offers 28 flavors made locally! THEY HAVE ALL THINGS ICE CREAM including hand-dipped waffle cones, specialty sundaes, frozen yogurt, smoothies, shaved ice (18 flavors), shakes & malts (any flavors), floats,  pints to go, & ice cream cakes!

Exceptional flavors: Peppermint, Mud pie and Peanut Butter Cup ice cream.

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Ok, so this one doesn’t have a view of the lake, but they have some of the BEST steaks, I’ve ever had!

Ciera Steak & Chophouse

Address: Montbleu Resort Casino & Spa - 55 US-50, Stateline, NV 89449

• Price: $$$$

• Specialties: Seafood / Steaks / Grill

• Menu: Ciera Menu

• Reservations: Opentable.com

I'd put Ciera Steak & Chophouse in the Top 10 best steak dinners I've ever had (and I LOVE steak)! This fabulous 4 Diamond chophouse has an exquisite variety of steaks and chops to go along with their extensive 300 bottle wine list.

Even the sides were amazing, we ordered all potatoes (the White Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes Gratinée were my fave) and the white truffle mac and cheese. These paired well with my mouth watering Cowboy Ribeye.

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