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A Guide to Exploring the Ancient Monasteries of Meteora, Greece
Visiting some of the most spectacular places on Earth can make it seem like you’re not on Earth at all. Whether they’re shaped by seemingly otherworldly geology or showcase near-impossible architectural feats, some spots have to be seen up close to be believed. One such place is Meteora in Greece. Arguably one of the country’s worst kept secrets, you’ll no doubt already have been introduced to this Greek gem on travel sites and Instagram feeds. However, seeing this serene setting through your phone screen simply doesn’t do it justice. If the ancient monasteries of Meteora are already on your radar, or you’re looking for your next destination to add to…
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Explore the World’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls by Road Trip
I love me a good road trip! It helps clear your head, offer you time to think, cry, fart and sing along to your favorite tunes with little to no distractions. According to the International Drivers Association, these are the top 10 waterfalls in the world. With waterfalls captivating travelers with their raw power and natural beauty, some of the world’s most stunning falls are accessible via road trips. From thunderous falls to gentle cascades, here’s the perfect guide that highlights some of these incredible waterfalls you can enjoy from behind the wheel around the world. 1. Niagara Falls, USA & Canada One of the most famous waterfalls globally, Niagara…
- Destinations, Education, Entertainment, Explore with Cassie, Food & Beverage, Latest News, Lifestyle
Explore Luxury Tributary Hotel & Fine Dining at ōkta Restaurant in McMinnville, Oregon
Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler Tributary Hotel is easily one of the most luxurious boutique hotels I’ve experienced so far in the United States… and that says a lot! The luxury accommodations with suites named after each area river debuted in McMinnville, Oregon in summer of 2022, the center of Oregon’s Willamette Valley and largest city in Yamhill County but still retains a small town feel. This was the next stop on my road trip West of Portland and arrived just in the nick of time to shoot, change and get ready for dinner. The full experience restaurant next door, ōkta, honors the region and each season, offering…
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Explore Islas Marías, Former Prison Islands in Nayarit, Mexico
Story, photos, videos by Cassie Hepler If you have a dark edge to your soul like me, this all-the-feels Islas Marías (Mary Islands) will resonate well. I have this new thing I do, where I say yes to everything and figure it out later. This trip was one of those yes moments while I was still on a private press trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. I had no clue what I was agreeing to but I’m always up for an adventure, twice if I like it. Here’s the thing about Mexico: it’s got a bad rap in the United States even though honestly, the United States is starting to…
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- Destinations, Education, Entertainment, Explore with Cassie, Food & Beverage, Latest News, Lifestyle
Fly to Puerto Vallarta Airport and Explore Nayarit, Mexico
Story, photos, video by Cassie Hepler Flying on an early morning flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor, Arizona to Puerto Vallarta Airport went pretty smoothly with a hosted American Airlines aisle seat. Mind you, international flights call for a two hour arrival buffer time although it makes no sense as you can check in online and just find your gate fast especially with TSA pre-check but airlines haven’t caught up yet I guess. Also, try not to check your luggage. You really don’t need all that stuff you packed, trust me. I’ll make a basic bitch carry on travel bag blog post soon, I promise. Much like the Cabo San Lucas…
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Explore Chacchoben Ruins and Blue Lagoon in Costa Maya, Mexico
Photos, story by Cassie Hepler When I was planning which cruise to take with Princess Cruises, I was obsessed with the 10 day cruise from Galveston, Texas because it included the Cayman Islands and Belize. As part of the press trip package, we were limited to 7 days so I chose the one that included Costa Maya which borders Belize and shares the same reef territory, great for snorkeling and diving. Costa Maya is also free from high rise chain hotels leaving its lagoons, archaeological gems and coastline free from clutter. And the 7 day cruise still stopped to see Roatan, Honduras so most bucket list items were checked off.…
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Escape to a Slice of Heaven in Catalina Island, California
Story, photos by Cassie Hepler (unless otherwise noted), I’ve officially dubbed Santa Catalina Island California’s mini Hawaii, minus the natives and hefty price tag. It has that same laid back, relaxing yet magical vibe. Situated 22 miles southwest from Los Angeles, CA, it feels like another world away as it is only accessible by boat. Our transportation choice was the Catalina Express, which offers three ports to choose from: San Pedro, Long Beach and Dana Point. Long Beach was closest for me driving in the day before from Phoenix but others are just as well. With up to 30 departures a day, it’s a no brainer to take this vessel…
- Day Trips, Destinations, Education, Entertainment, Explore with Cassie, Food & Beverage, Latest News, Lifestyle
Polish Your Soul and Your Plate in Sedona, Arizona
Photos, story by Cassie Hepler When you receive a last minute press trip invite to Sedona, Arizona on 11/11, you go. Those in alignment numbers represent a powerful opportunity to connect with your inner self and begin some kick ass spiritual growth. It also signifies that a period of change is about to start within you. And literally earlier that week, the shift was already in motion. So I delved into the energy vortex abyss that is the high vibe of Sedona for a magical weekend! But first we had to swing by the brand new Cove Mesa Vineyard in Cornville, AZ to enjoy a wine tasting and meet the…
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Marriott Phoenix Chandler Hotel Adds Luxury and Class to Chandler, Arizona
Story, photos by Cassie Hepler (unless otherwise noted) We love finding hidden gems. Although this one is not so hidden because the Marriott Phoenix Chandler is not only the largest legacy brand full service Marriott in the state (128,000 square feet total), the 264-room property features the greatest amount of hotel conference space in the area at 28,000 feet. Located in the bustling Price Corridor, it is managed by Cincinnati-based Winegardner & Hammons Hotel Group, LLC., an affiliate company of the Pyramid Hotel Group, which is one of the predominant hotel management companies in the United States. With easy access to Loop 101 and Loop 202, we thought it would…
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Hotel Adeline Adds Boutique Flair with Secret Speakeasy to Scottsdale, Arizona
Photos, story by Cassie Hepler My East Coast crew is always asking me where to stay when visiting sunny Arizona. Now I finally have a place to direct people who like to play, stay and enjoy Cambelback Mountain views at all times in Scottsdale, Arizona! Enter Hotel Adeline, which revamped and opened in January 2017, ironically the same time I moved across the country. Formerly a Days Inn, then Clarion Inn, and lastly Scottsdale Inn, the 4.5 acre property underwent a $12 million renovation. With a gated car valet (or open guest parking in the front), you don’t have to worry about your car which is nice. Just park and play!…
