Travel Diaries ~~> Encounters of LA

Nomad; a person who does not stay long in the same place; a wanderer, an individual mentally herding thoughts or physically running their world! (are you picking up what I'm putting down?)

With the demands of everyday life, being a hustle from the muscle mom and diligently working on creating and manifesting ideas. I planned some much-needed travel time to tap into who I am as a woman and some unstructured time to see what this continuous "becoming" looks like.

If you're anything like me you're always thinking of the next meal and/or mission. That is the result of me wandering to the west coast for a long weekend. The experience was so enjoyable I decided to recap my itinerary and share some tidbits in case you're feeling "book it" happy. *Ahem* This is your friendly reminder, RWD values awakening cultured outcomes with a refreshing and lively approach. Meaning, we condone budgeting travel accordingly! ~Rejuvenation

[DISCLAIMER] This was a solo trip and is a unique experience overall. Results may vary. Now, here we go......

Cross Country Visuals.

Friday

• American Airlines - Roundtrip, nonstop flights were moderately priced. The kicker here is the earlier you purchase, the better off you will be. I tracked the flight about 2 months in advance before purchasing. I noticed the price surprisingly increased +$150 more two weeks prior to the departure date. See it, track it, can work with it, grab it quick!

• Uber - A few good folks mentioned needing a car to get around. This definitely helps. But, I will say Uber was so convenient and cost way less than renting a car. Legit total costs were about $50 for the entire weekend. Plus, pooling with cool kid locals gives you the details on what's hot and happening, where to go, what to do and what tourist traps to avoid. Unless you know someone from the area to sweep you up and show you around is always fun too.

• Airbnb - This was a first for me. All I can say is I'll avoid hotels by any means when I can. There's something about being in the culture and living like you belong there and not just visiting. Again moderately priced. Reviews, reviews, reviews if the idea of this creeps you out scroll through the reviews and it pretty much helps you decide should you or should you not. The hostess was very pleasant and the reviews did not lie, I was very much satisfied and would do it again.

Saturday

• Smart & Final - I had so much time to go, stroll, and just do as I please. A time I totally do not take for granted, now that I'm home and can't even use the bathroom in peace. First, can we talk about the weather in winter, let's just say it's something one could get used to. Anyway, I travel for food among other things. You can literally google anything you want and it is either a mild walk nearby or hop in an uber and survive. So I would do a simple walk to the closest coffee and bagel shop and indulge before starting my day. I saved a lot of money buying snacks and beverages here.

  • Now, if you are not an animal lover I will warn you now. Dogs are everywhere from the counter you order your food to their very own courtyard, yes it's that intense.

• In-N-Out - I'm not really a burger girl, gotta be in the mood, but, I figured I would try it. Yes, it was that good! Apparently, they are a fast food chain known for its fresh ingredients and "sauce". I compared it to five guys and In-N-Out takes the win. I'm home now so five guys it is, boo.

• Museum of Neon Art - I happen to follow @refinery29 and a few of their images caught my eye. I think I have an affinity for neon lights and signs. Anywho, their page led me to find this museum and I made that a target to attend when initially considering this trip. What intrigued me the most is the exhibit "She Bends" a group show featuring women benders from around the world. Kind of encompasses the overall theme of this trip for me, highlighting the talents and skills of creative women. (if this is not your cup of tea, I guarantee you can google your heart's desire and make a day of it, when you book your Airbnb they offer experiences for you to sign up for also.)

• Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles - Most times I want to catch a food flic. Other times I'm enjoying the meal and miss the moment. I will say though, YES, you want to eat here!

"She Bends"

Sunday

$1 Finds : )

• Jet Rag - I'm telling you google and yelp will be your best friend (the kind soul in the uber pool told me that, believe him). I did my usual coffee stroll, went back to the apartment and searched for thrift stores. It was legit a $3 ride 20 minutes away. LA is a whole nother level of thrifting, I came home with some very unique pieces for me and my kid for literally one dollar a piece. I'm still in bliss over that. I'm also impressed with the fact that you can literally uber to a specific town and make a day of just strolling through the area (your best cute yet comfy kicks will get you through). Melrose Blvd, Hollywood, Rodeo Drive it's all conveniently located for living the lush lifestyle. Even when being thrifty! I get a rush when I think of the possible finds in all the Goodwill stores I passed. *sigh*

• COREPowerYoga - I was fortunate to have a dependable connect from the area to show me a good time and provide great company. Needless to say, me taking a guided yoga class was a first for me as well. First class also happened to be the hottest, heated advanced class *side eyes* I survived though. This was a much-needed reminder for me to get back on track with my health and fitness. Attempting to be conscious of how I speak to myself about myself, it was more like "ok, you look good, but how do you feel?" In other words get it together, keep it together. You can always do Runyon Canyon too, I'm not quite ready lol lol

• Venice Beach - Change clothes and go! I'm not exaggerating, so much to do in a day. Even on a Sunday, and Venice Beach is where it's at for a thriving creative and enthusiast. I had been advised by my therapist (yes, I have one of those, I'll give my speel on mental health another time) to make sure I catch the sunset. I felt like the vibrations were high and the universe aligned my trip perfectly. I know that might sound cliche, but I was in the right places at all the right times. Entertainment is nonstop here, I kept saying "you know, I'm just happy to be here." What can I say, I love who I'm "becoming" and you should too! Dream it, think it, do it.

• Village Pizzeria - Small, quaint, family-friendly pizzeria located in a strip mall named "Larchmont" this town was another uber referral that turned out A+

• Jeni's Ice Cream - Ice cream was my go-to dessert. Let's just say Mateo's was good but Jeni's was great!

Monday

Cheap thrills.

• Cafe Tropical - My flight was late enough in the day that I could take my time packing, check some emails and still have time for a coffee run. Another referral from a good friend of mine, which was located on Sunset Blvd. THEE BEST breakfast sandwich and cafe con leche, OMGoodness, all the exaggeration on that one. I'm telling you that's why there's no proof. I basically devoured it and hopped on my flight, caught a food coma and woke up in Philly to cold and snow.

• That's my recap, grateful for the opportunity, prayerful for the next experience. When I wasn't busy being busy, I was in my own room, enjoying my own company, netflix and chill. Reading this great book feeding my mind. Writing my roadmap and just really tapping into some gratitude, relationship building and aligning. I flew out with the intent to do what I wanted when I wanted. Museums, murals, and the food was the goal. Everything else was just extra and overflow. So yea, airfare and lodging were the main expenses. It does help to have a friend with a car, but uber will get it done easily. I did realize I ate what I consider comfort food, but I guarantee there are just as many healthy options if not more. And to top it off I came home with more clothes than I left with and $100 left from my spending budget.

• I would love to collaborate or converse more if you're up to it. Meet me at D.I.Y. Crafts & Cocktails if you're down!

And so back to a new reality.