Trip IV (Mineral Point)

Very few people know of the beautiful artists' town of Mineral Pt, WI. It has chic boutiques, hip cafes, and artsy gardens all while retaining the cozy small town vibe. There are lots of art galleries to peer into, architectural artifact shops, and handmade wonders galore. Oh an adorable used book store. My family stayed at 219 Washington Street, a home rented out to visitors. It was a great abode (Victorian Feel with a funky twist) and I highly recommend it! Besides the natural beauty of the area and great dining/lodging/shopping, the town also holds quite an interesting history ready to be explored. Here's the link to the official Mineral Pt website: http://www.mineralpoint.com/

Take a trip there!

Trip III

Every year, my family heads up to New Buffalo, Michigan for a short stay.

It's every Chicagoan's favourite summer home-away-from-home.

It's a great area-- I won't go into much detail; just cite the best stops.

If you haven't been to New Buffalo/Grand Haven, you must go!

Beaches/Nature: Warren Dunes State Park

Food (on the way there): Take a pit stop in Chestertown, Indiana for a bite at the Port

Food (in N.B): Red Arrow Highway, Redamack's, Stray Dog

Snacks: The Whistle Stop, local fruit stands

Ice Cream: Oink's !

TRIP II (part 3)

Day 3; In the morning hours, for a bite to eat, we hit the LA Farmer's Market. It's a wonderful collection of food vendors and little shops. So many local and ethnic flavours are mashed into one place. I highly endorse going to the Gumbo Pot for beignets and chicory coffee (mmm). They also have great gumbo, cornbread, and Louisiana favourites.

After the food, we drove to San Clemente to a new hotel (Travel Lodge! Cheap, friendly, clean). We got suited up and went for a walk on the nearby beach and pier. As usual, it was beautiful. In the evening hours we met with family for a pre-wedding beach bonfire. This was on Aliso beach (Great spot!). It was highly enjoyable.

Day 4; Went to the Crystal Beach near the Montage Hotel (very pricey stay). They beach is gorgeous and well kept... and FREE. In addition, it had plenty of tidal pools to explore.