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Explore Down the Shore at Long Beach Island’s Daddy O Hotel in New Jersey
The Daddy O is a boutique-style hotel mere steps from the beach in Long Beach Island, NJ. “The sea does not reward those who are too anxious, too greedy, or too impatient. To dig for treasures shows not only impatience and greed, but lack of faith. Patience, patience, patience, is what the sea teaches. Patience and faith. One should lie empty, open, choiceless as a beach—waiting for a gift from the sea.” ― Anne Morrow Lindbergh, Gift from the Sea Story, photos by Sharon Kozden What I did on my summer vacation … not much. I wanted to do a lot, but the heat, oh the heat. This year, it was just…
- Day Trips, Destinations, Entertainment, Explore with Cassie, Food & Beverage, Latest News, Lifestyle
All Aboard the Moshulu, the World’s Oldest & Largest Tall Ship with Restaurant in Philadelphia
Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler The last time I visited the Moshulu Philly, it was to attend the launch of The Deck Philly which was in 2017, right before I moved to Arizona that New Year. Since then a lot has happened including Covid knocking out a ton of amazing restaurants and locations across Philadelphia which I’m discovering as I’m digging through archives on Explore with Cassie (formerly Explore-Philly.com) and having to throw in the digital trash sadly. The timing of all of this is very odd or maybe serendipitous, a lot of photos that are not supposed to be attached to the old site are somehow breaking…
- Day Trips, Destinations, Entertainment, Explore with Cassie, Food & Beverage, Latest News, Lifestyle
Westin Tempe, Arizona Offers Perfect Location to Stay & Play for ASU Crew
Story, photos (unless otherwise noted), videos by Cassie Hepler When I first moved to Arizona, I rented an Airbnb studio in Tempe called the hobbit hole somewhere downtown close enough to ride your bicycle but too far to walk especially in the heat. That was my first experience with Tempe, Arizona and I do have fond memories of it. My hosts were amazing and knowing I was relocating, told me if I found an apartment (or in my case, an Arcadia casita), they would gladly release the rest of my stay and even help me move. Talk about Western hospitality! So my first impression was excellent in this area. Known…
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Build a Glamping Dome in Your Backyard with Phoenix Domes
Story by Cassie Hepler The price of housing is outrageous all across the United States. This is a not-so-fun fact we all feel from greedy corporate entities and our own government squeezing citizens for every last dime through creeping to 40% taxes on everything you do, eat, drink and where you live. I’m very goal-oriented and have been speaking to a number of think-outside-the-box brands over the years trying to find a solution to the housing madness. Fortunately, Arizona is pretty lax about additional living structures and especially now that the city of Phoenix has approved casitas in your backyard, glamping domes are a very cost effective way to secure…
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Your Architectural Adventure: Starting Your Own Firm
Starting your own architectural business is like designing a skyscraper from the ground up – it takes vision, planning, and a solid foundation. Whether you’re a seasoned architect ready to strike out on your own or a fresh graduate with big dreams, here’s a roadmap to help you build your empire. Image by GrumpyBeere from Pixabay 1. Define Your Architectural Identity Every great architect has a signature style. Whether you’re passionate about sustainable design, urban landscapes, or historic preservation, defining your niche sets the stage for your unique contribution to the built environment. 2. Develop a Rock-Solid Business Plan Think of your business plan as the blueprint for success. Outline…
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Sleep in a Glamping Dome at Tirrito Farm in WillCox, Arizona
Photos, story and video by Cassie Hepler The last time I drove down to Willcox, Arizona was a whirlwind press trip with Cochise County with a heavy focus on all the many wineries in Southern Arizona. Let me tell you, when your job is to drink wine for days, your body is like whoah Nelly what is going on here?! It was during the end of the chaotic Covid era, not that it mattered in Arizona. It was still the Wild West which reminded me why I moved here in the first place… laws are a little loosey goosey. That road trip also included an overnight in the wild, weird…
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Cool Down at Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast
Story, photos by Cassie Hepler Welcome to my first time on the Oregon Coast but most certainly not my last… Checking off another travel box off the bucket list was visiting Portland, Oregon and driving out to the stunning Pacific Northwest Coast. Working with nearby Wilsonville, Oregon, I was connected with the friendly folks at Cannon Beach, Oregon and so happy it all came to fruition. With limited time and a pretty packed schedule, I was up and at ‘em, excited and ready to enjoy that salty air probably way too early Friday morning. What can I say, I love the beach! I also learned on the drive from Beaverton,…
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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…
