Taos, New Mexico Hiking – William’s Lake Trail

If you’re looking for a place that feels like stepping into another time where every person at the coffee shop could be an artist, a poet, or just someone with the most fascinating story then Taos, New Mexico needs to be on your travel list. I’m not exaggerating when I say there’s no other small town quite like it. It’s this gorgeous mix of history, creativity, and natural beauty that completely transports you.

The adobe buildings glow in burnt orange and blush tones, and in summer, hollyhocks line the shops like something out of a painting. There’s art literally everywhere in galleries, yes but also in the energy of the town. And if you’re planning a road trip through the Southwest or mapping out your ultimate Route 66 detour, add Taos to your list.

Hiking in Taos: Where the Trails Feel Like Secret Worlds

One of the best things about this part of New Mexico? The hiking. I’m a mountain girl at heart, and getting as far away from civilization as possible to hike to an alpine lake in the Taos Ski Valley is pure magic for me. What’s even better is that the trails here aren’t packed with people like you’d find on popular Colorado hikes. You might go the whole way without seeing another soul—and honestly, I love that. It feels like you’ve stumbled onto a secret.

One of my favorite spots is William’s Lake Trail a must-do if you’re hiking near Taos. The views are stunning, the air is crisp, and the vibe is peaceful in the most grounding way. You’ll definitely cross paths with other hikers here and there, but it’s nothing like the crowds of Denver or Salt Lake.

What to Know Before You Hike William’s Lake Trail

Here’s the deal: Taos sits at an elevation of 6,969 feet, and the trail itself climbs to over 11,000 feet, so altitude adjustment is real. If you just rolled into town, take a day to chill. Explore the galleries, sip on some divine coffee (seriously, the coffee scene here is so good), and maybe hold off on the margaritas until post-hike.

The hike to William’s Lake is about 3.7 miles out and back with a steady elevation gain of 1,000+ feet. It’s rated moderate, and depending on the season think spring snowpack or summer runoff—you might run into snow, mud, or icy spots. The trail follows a creek early on and winds through thick pine forests where you’ll hear birdsong and the occasional crow overhead. It’s peaceful, challenging, and 100% worth it.

Allow 3–4 hours roundtrip depending on how long you spend soaking in the views at the top. Bring snacks, take breaks, and don’t rush. You’re already somewhere beautiful.

Safety Notes for Your Taos Hiking Adventure

Be prepared. Weather in the mountains is unpredictable. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially in spring, and we’ve been caught in a lightning storm before (not fun!). Bring layers: a sun shirt, insulated layer, and a rain jacket are essentials. The trail is mostly shaded, but temps drop as you climb, and winds can pick up fast.

Also: keep an ear out for creaking trees overhead—they call them “widow makers” for a reason. Always check recent trail conditions and bring a solid daypack.

Once You Reach the Lake…

You’re rewarded with a view that’s straight-up magical. The lake sits in a glacial basin, surrounded by rugged cliffs, and in early summer, wildflowers bloom like crazy. If you’re lucky, you might spot a marmot peeking out of the rocks—these chubby little mountain creatures are the cutest, and they only come out in summer.

If you’re feeling bold and want to extend the adventure, continue on the trail toward Wheeler Peak, the highest point in New Mexico. It’s a longer, more strenuous hike but totally worth it if you’re chasing those big mountain views.

When to Visit for Wildflowers (and Another Post Coming Soon!)

If you’re into wildflower hikes (same), plan your trip between late June and early August. Summer arrives late up here, and the bloom windows are short but stunning. I’m already working on a blog post about the best wildflower hikes in Taos, so be sure to check back for that. 🌼

Pagosa Springs, Colorado

We visited Pagosa Springs, Colorado, my favorite hot springs ever! Hot springs are one of my the best places to visit while in the mountains; there is so much healing and relaxation they provide, and they’re often located in beautiful towns and places. There are wild hot springs that you have to hike to and be rewarded by the warm water softening your tired bones. These are not wild, though they are about as luxurious as they come. We have been coming here for over ten years, and it has grown and transformed into more of a destination than in the past. Its pools are situated right in the downtown of Pagosa, with the San Juan river running through the middle. The location is surrounded by restaurants, patios, and shops that continue the charm of small-town America.

We hadn’t been back to Pagosa Springs in a number of years, and it is truly the heart of the town now, adding additional pools, lodging, and one of the best restaurants in town. They have a variety of packages available, and since we were only making a day trip to the springs, we opted for the Relaxation Terrace Pass. We really liked this option because you have access to the twenty original pools and five adult-only relaxation terrace pools. This was perfect for us to spend most of the day soaking. It was the middle of summer, but they have a lot of umbrellas that offer shade, and the upper pools were less crowded than the lower pools.

When we go to the springs, it’s a very meditative and healing experience, so we try to limit talking and focus on the healing geothermal waters. If you get too hot, you can just go cool off in the original ice plunge of the San Juan River. It’s such a picturesque place, looking over the edge of the pool onto the river walk with people enjoying the day or kids playing and tubing down the river in the distance. The pools range in temperature, and they have created levels along the hillside of the resort that offer privacy and seclusion when needed. Waterfalls of warm water run off into some of the pools, offering a dreamy massage on the neck and shoulders. Visitors can enjoy food and drinks by the poolside, which makes it a really fun time to come and enjoy the atmosphere and the remarkable space being held in this pocket of Colorado.

If you are interested in the science of the springs and looking for a more therapeutic experience of well-being at The Springs, you can experience their soaking journey. Created by Dr. Marcus Coplin, Medical Director of The Springs Resort, he has curated a soaking retreat that is intentional with science-based wisdom and hot spring insight to make your time spent in the waters truly therapeutic. Whether you’re looking for the Science-Based Soaking Journey, the Restoration Journey, the Deep Sleep Guide, or the Detox Guide, each one offers something to help you reconnect and find balance again.

Once we had our hours at the springs, we walked around the quaint town and headed into some of the shops downtown. We made our way to the Wild Finch, which is connected with the Springs Resort, and enjoyed some libations and a delicious chicken-fried elk steak with African curry and greens. Jeremy enjoyed the duck breast with roasted bok choy and a fig spread. The atmosphere inside the restaurant was modern and airy, and they also have a wonderful patio to sit outside and enjoy the cool mountain breeze.

The day spent in Pagosa was everything we were looking for to end our summer Colorado trip, and we are looking forward to coming back to stay at the resort and spend more time relaxing in the springs.

RMNP Bear Lake & Grand Lake

Waking up early is not a problem for me, as my body naturally wakes up at six o’clock a.m., and I am well-rested and always a morning person. I love mornings because they are a fresh new beginning to the day and whatever it may hold. This morning, our plan was to get to the Bear Lake Corridor entrance in Rocky Mountain National Park before five a.m. We wandered down to the hotel coffee machine and made ourselves two coffees each. There was a gentle light from the fireplace in the lobby and the smell of fresh ground beans that helped wake us up to make the drive in the dark up the side of a mountain.

When we made it to the parking lot, we found our headlamp and gear and started walking on the trail toward a series of alpine lakes. The sun was slowly starting to rise over the peaks of the mountains in the distance, and we decided to stop and take a look. It was truly magnificent — the hues of blood orange blending with light orange, reaching to the blue sky at the top, hugged by countless trees on the mountain sides. Little did we know, this spot on the rocks is called Sunrise Point, and it truly was a perfect place to take in the breathtaking view of the sunrise.

There is something so rewarding about being up before the sun rises. There’s a stillness in the morning, and there are so few people on the trail that you really get to enjoy it and take it all in. As the sun crested the mountain side, the light took over the haze of morning and brightened up the trail with its warm tone. You could still see the silver moon in the sky along with the sun’s warm glow and the towering peaks that rolled one after the next across the view.

The trail is not too difficult and is well-maintained since it gets a lot of travel time. When I hike, it’s to get away from people and immerse myself in nature’s wonders. When you’re visiting a highly trafficked area like Rocky Mountain National Park, you are not going to be the only one enjoying the trail and the views, so it’s important to be considerate of others. For example, if someone is walking uphill and you are going downhill, yield for that person. If someone is taking in the view, don’t step in front of them to snap a photo. Personally, I don’t speak loudly or yell on the trail because I’m in a meditative state of nature, so I think those are things to consider. I also love to offer encouraging words to people who might be struggling with the hike a bit and give information on the trail if there are snowy or slick spots coming up. Remember, there is no rush — you are already where you need to be, and the other people out here in the early morning to enjoy this trail are important, too. Make it a joyful experience that you share with others, whether you are with a group or solo on the trail.

When you start out at the low point of the trail, it is Bear Lake, and it is such a wonder to think you can access an alpine lake by just driving there. Most alpine lakes you have to hike many miles to see, so this is a treasure all on its own. After you have hiked a bit, you will reach Nymph Lake, which was covered in lily pads and a dark green color, circled by trees with just a hint of the mountains beyond. Once we made it to Emerald Lake, the morning sun’s rays were reflecting on the water so beautifully. I see why photographers are always searching for the quicksilver in their photos, because it was so dreamy to see the perfect reflection of the pine and fir trees on the shoreline and the sun and clouds in the sky mirrored onto the water. We stood there and took it all in and spotted a few greenback cutthroat trout in the long, thin alpine lake.

As we continued the trek, we saw waterfalls of rushing water against the gray and white rocks flowing into Emerald Lake. I love a trail that has running water alongside it — the sound is so calming and soothing to the heart, and to see such pure and beautiful water in an alpine forest is amazing. There is so much life inside of the water, and I listen to its ancient wisdom as it turns white with froth and bubbles passing over the worn rocks. With each beautiful stop, we kept getting closer to the mountain peaks in the distance, as the sun illuminated them in a yellow beacon calling out to us to keep climbing higher.

As we walked across the trail over elevated bridges in the swampy parts, and over old snow packs that were slick and worn down and mostly the color of mud, stepping over big rocks and logs, we arrived at the most stunning view of Dream Lake. It is nestled at the very top of the mountains and is striking with its own character and grace, its rocky outcroppings and sparse trees lining the lake’s edges, with just a minimal amount of snow still on the mountain sides in mid-June. Large boulders roll out across the edge of the lake, and time-worn, towering, twisting bristlecone pines dot the area.

As we made the descent back to Bear Lake, it was so beautiful — a little family of ducks and ducklings paddled by as we sat on the wood-carved bench and took it all in one more time.

As we were leaving, trail traffic was picking up, and we were glad to be wrapping up the hike since we were only spending one day in the park before heading out to drive Trail Ridge Road. Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, is indeed the highest continuous paved road in the United States. It reaches an elevation of 12,183 feet (3,713 meters) and traverses 48 miles across the park, connecting Estes Park and Grand Lake during the summer season. The road was amazing — and also terrifying at the same time — since there is just a scraggy line of rocks to mark the edge of a sheer drop-off down the mountain. Thankfully, Jeremy was the brave one who drove us, and he did great.

It takes you across the glacial landscape, formed over the past two million years, as polar climates caused glaciers to form and move down the canyon. We drove toward Hayden Gorge, a U-shaped glacial valley with glacial cirques that imprint the landscape. Lakes called tarns often fill the depressions left behind when the glaciers retreat. As we drove along Trail Ridge Road, we did spot a few elk in the hills and a moose in the distance — this is where your binoculars come in handy. I was a bit sad we didn’t see more wildlife on our visit and would have loved to see them up close.

We arrived in Grand Lake around lunchtime and stopped at Not-Cho Mama’s Grill and Cantina for a cold beer. I had the taco salad and Jeremy had the smothered burrito — it was divine! The town is so cute, basically two rows of wood buildings filled with shops and restaurants. It feels like an old west town with Grand Lake situated in the background. The Grand Lake Community House is located in the center of town, a beautiful log cabin that has been there for over 150 years. We had previously planned to tent camp at a local KOA that night and stay in Grand Lake before heading to Pagosa Springs to wrap up our adventure. But the heat was so terrible, with an unexpected heat wave that week, that we decided to just hang out in town for a few hours and then make our way to Breckenridge, planning to go to Pagosa Springs the next day.

A Dreamy Day in Estes: Coffee, Trails, and The Stanley Hotel

As the sunset illuminated the evening sky, we sipped our last few drops of lavender-infused libations and made our way across the beautiful Thompson River walkway back to our cozy room. Fortunately, the entire day had been this dreamy, and it all started with an adorable little kiss on the nose from a Rottweiler at 5 a.m.

Hilariously — but quite seriously — the moment we stepped outside of our room, we were met by the local Estes Park wilderness ambassador: a cranky mother deer stomping her feet to let us know we needed to detour away from her family! Our Rottweiler, Rocco, was taken by surprise, and we made sure to steer clear of the unbridled fury known colloquially as “Animal Mother.” After that quick pre-coffee jolt, we ambled over to the nearest coffee shop right on the banks of the Thompson River, Kind Coffee. The spacious outdoor seating area was blanketed with green grass and blessed by the gentle rumble of the rapids. After our five-star blueberry cream cheese danish and latte superpower bean juice, we were off to our next adventure: finding the perfect morning dog poop spot.

As we drove to Lion Gulch Trail, the temperature began to soar. We had arrived during a challenging time, with a heat dome pushing temperatures up across the country. This particular trail is pretty popular with local hikers and dog friends, too. We barely snagged the last parking spot when we pulled up to the trailhead. Colorado — and especially Estes Park — is an outdoor hotspot, so parking can be scarce after the early morning hours.

We set out on the beautiful, well-maintained trail, but after the first mile, temperatures had already hit 84°F. We powered through until little Rocco needed a break, then decided to save his and our energy for the rest of the day ahead. There is abundant water along the first mile or so of the trail, but be prepared for a challenging hike with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain over just a few miles. We’ll definitely be back to try again when the weather is a bit more favorable for Mr. Rocco, the best boy in the whole world. Not to mention, the drive out there is absolutely magnificent.

After a nice rest and reset at the room, we continued our adventure, rambling through the historic and breathtaking scenery of this charming town’s manicured streets and wide sidewalks. Having sampled our fair share of saltwater taffy, we chose a restaurant overlooking the lake on a beautifully appointed balcony: Ember.

To say the duck breast gnocchi was exquisite would be like calling Picasso “competent.” The drinks were equally excellent, served with a casual but refined air. I was thoroughly impressed with the subtle ambiance and the culinary professionalism of this high-quality establishment — easily a 6/5 stars in my book. I might have even dreamed about acquiring gallons of that cream Alfredo sauce…

Stanley, Stanley, Stanley! As we recovered from what felt like a never-ending day of celebrations, we decided to make our next stop the grand prize of Estes Park — and I’m not even talking about RMNP. Our eyes bulged and our hearts soared as we walked toward the Stanley Hotel. The white paint stands out against the mountain backdrop, and the scale of the property becomes clear as you approach the front entrance. There’s a historic air and a deep sense of antiquity as your eyes take in the expansive grounds.

Several buildings grace the property, including restaurants, bars, wedding reception areas, flower gardens, and magnificent lodging. We sat on the front porch with glasses of soul-satisfying vino, soaking up a perfect moment surrounded by the incredible history of the Stanley Hotel, with views of the mountains glowing in the sunset. The place is oozing with stories — this is where Stephen King wrote The Shining, and part of Dumb and Dumber was filmed on the hotel steps. Countless famous people, including Bob Dylan, have stayed here.

Watching the joy and excitement dance across the faces of other travelers is one of the best rewards of visiting a place so rich in history. Though maybe a bit hokey and silly, I still choose to believe that the bearded, silent man sipping a drink at the bar — who looked exactly like old Mr. Stanley — was, in fact, his happy spirit come back to revel.

Colorado Travel Journal – First Impressions of Estes Park

Colorado is a place I’ve visited often, and I keep going back because there always seems to be something new and exciting to discover in the Rocky Mountains. One place I had never been until recently was Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.

This charming little mountain town sits right next to one of the most popular national parks in the country especially in the summer. The sound of water rolling through the middle of town is so refreshing, and you can stroll along the Riverwalk, which is lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and probably the cutest bookstore I’ve ever seen.

One of my favorite things about mountain towns like Estes is how dog-friendly they are. We brought our dog Rocco along, and he had the best time especially when he got to cool off with a dip in the river.

The main goal of our trip was simple: make it to Estes Park and hike some of the highlights in RMNP Bear Lake Corridor, Trail Ridge Road, and Grand Lake, with its gorgeous alpine lakes. Not only did we check off all of those… we did even more! I’ll share all the fun hikes we did and the restaurants we loved along the way.

If you’re visiting during peak summer months, expect some crowds but honestly, they weren’t too bad. Almost everyone there is a tourist, since the park draws a ton of visitors between May and July. One thing to know: you need a timed entry permit to access certain areas of the park during busy windows. But don’t worry I’ll share some tips on how to get around that in a future post.

We love road-tripping to places like this because you get to soak in so much more of the landscape than you would by flying. We started in southern Colorado and drove five hours through winding roads and mountain passes until we reached Estes. As you descend into town, you’re greeted by Lake Estes, with snow-capped peaks in the distance. It’s breathtaking.

Elk are a regular part of the scenery in Estes you’ll see them lounging in the water or just walking along the sidewalks. It’s important to keep your distance, but it’s also part of the magic of the place. One thing I loved spotting was the Stanley Hotel, with its white walls and red roof tucked into the mountain backdrop. It’s iconic and yes, it’s where Stephen King was inspired to write The Shining.

We found our hotel, which was dog-friendly and walkable to downtown a huge win after a long day of driving. All we wanted that evening was a good meal and a casual stroll before bed.

We ended up at The Hive at Estes Park Brewery, and it was just the right vibe cozy inside and a great patio outside. Since we had Rocco with us, patios were our go-to. No complaints there we got to soak up the cool mountain breeze and views of the tram starting off in the distance.

We had a delicious cold libation and shared a sausage sampler with elk, venison, and beef, paired with fig jam and stone ground mustard. The waffle fries were seasoned perfectly, and we also split a sous vide chicken breast served on mashed potatoes with green beans.

As the sun went down, the crowds faded and the town quieted. We took a walk along the peacefully lit Riverwalk, which felt almost like we had it to ourselves. There was a beautiful gazebo glowing with lights, and seeing the Park Theatre lit up at night gave us a totally different feel for the town one that was cozy and calm.

That was our first impression of Estes Park, and it was everything I’d hoped for charming, peaceful, and full of beauty at every turn.

Exploring Edinburgh on Foot: A Storybook Day of Leith, Stockbridge, Dean’s Village

We woke up the next morning, and I wish I could say we felt super refreshed—but the night was rough. It had been one of the hottest days of the summer in Edinburgh, and there was no A/C. Our windows opened into a courtyard with absolutely no breeze.

When we stayed at St. Blanes House, we always slept with the window cracked open, letting in the sea breeze. It was perfect. But this… this was different.

I called the lobby and asked, “This might be a dumb question, but do we have A/C?” Sadly, they said no. I asked if they could bring up a fan, and they sent the saddest little fan I’ve ever seen. We ended up sleeping without covers, in minimal clothing—basically sweating all night.

All this to say: Americans need air conditioning. Traveling to a country where many buildings are historic and don’t have it definitely takes some getting used to.

The next morning, we powered through in search of coffee before starting our final day in Edinburgh. We walked out onto Frederick Street and headed to the nearest coffee shop on Princes Street—Black Sheep Coffee—for a much-needed latte.

Our itinerary for the day was full of adventure. We’re natural early risers and wanted to explore the city before the afternoon crowds. We planned to take the red bus through Old Town, then head to the River of Leith, Stockbridge, Dean Village, and finally back to Old Town for our tour of Edinburgh Castle.

While sitting on the second floor of the coffee shop, we had a direct view of the castle. It’s impossible to miss, sitting high on a rocky cliff. Its presence is so grand and powerful—you can feel its strength and history just looking at it.

Back outside, we hit the streets on foot. Edinburgh is incredibly walkable, and we mostly explored that way—logging over eight miles that day with a few bus rides and an Uber to give our tired feet a break.

The city’s rich heritage and majestic atmosphere honestly feel like something out of a storybook. What’s funny is that its gray stone buildings often match the color of the sky. But during our short trip, we had sunny days—and we weren’t mad about that!

If you’re visiting, I highly recommend getting up early to see the city before the crowds arrive. It’s the best way to soak everything in without feeling rushed.

As we made our way toward the Grassmarket, we stopped at The Kilted Donut for a sweet treat and another coffee. Their gourmet donuts were next-level—pistachio crunch, cinnamon swirl, Boston cream, cookie explosion, and my favorite: the Kilted Teacake, topped with chocolate, marshmallows, and cream filling.

We also passed the cutest cat café with cats lounging in the windows—dream business idea! There are tons of great breakfast and pastry spots in the area, and it was hard to choose.

We hopped on the double-decker red bus and climbed to the second level, where there’s open-air seating—perfect for soaking in the views. The route took us through Georgian New Town, past the Royal Botanic Garden, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which overlooks the majestic Arthur’s Seat.

As we passed through St. Andrew Square, we saw the towering monument in the middle of the green park. People were sitting on the lawn, eating lunch or reading. We cruised by a red door on a Georgian-style home in New Town—that was the former home of Robert Louis Stevenson, the famous Scottish author of Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

As we continued north, we passed family neighborhoods, schools, and parks—places where real Edinburgh life unfolds. When we reached the Royal Yacht Britannia, we admired it from the bus. If we had more time, I definitely would’ve loved to tour it.

For over 44 years, the Royal Yacht carried the Royal Family across the globe, traveling over a million nautical miles. Queen Elizabeth II used it for official events, royal honeymoons, and quiet family holidays. It symbolized the Commonwealth and played a role in billions of pounds in trade deals. To the Royal Family and the 220 crew members who lived aboard, it was home.

We didn’t stop again until we reached the River of Leith. Leith is the historic port of Edinburgh and showcases a mix of architectural styles—from grand neoclassical and Georgian buildings to Victorian tenements and modern designs that honor its industrial roots. The old stone and slate-roof buildings now sit alongside trendy cafes, galleries, and sleek new apartments made from glass and timber.

We had lunch at a Mediterranean restaurant called Kezban—absolutely delicious!

Next, we made our way to Stockbridge and then Dean Village. You have to check out these two areas—they’re completely different but connected by a gorgeous riverside walk.

Dean Village feels like a fairytale. Tucked away in a peaceful valley along the Water of Leith, it was once home to working mills. The historic buildings are charming and serene—it’s hard to believe you’re still in the city.

The walk from Dean Village to Stockbridge is beautiful. You follow the river path, pass under the massive Dean Bridge (over 100 feet above you!), and eventually end up in the lively heart of Stockbridge.

Stockbridge has a totally different energy—bustling with shops, cafés, and independent bookstores. It’s the perfect mix of calm and lively.

If you’re up for it, you can keep following the Water of Leith for even more adventure.

Pro tip: wear good walking shoes. I wore Dr. Scholl’s Time Off sneakers and walked over eight miles—they were super comfy and still looked cute!

Edinburgh Scotland – Princess Street, Grass Market, New Town & Old Town

Did someone say “breath of fresh air”? This is exactly how Edinburgh makes me feel! The blend of ancient streets, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes is like nowhere else. Discover the magic of the UK’s most enchanting city. 

You are walking up the steps from the train station off of Princes Street in Edinburgh, Scotland and your senses come online the sound of bagpipes fill the air and your eyes are drawn upwards to the buildings and to the Scottish Monument. The world’s second biggest monument to a writer and poet and it doesn’t hurt that his dog is carved along with him in marble. It’s standing in all its gothic glory. It was truly buzzing with life and activity on the streets that clear August day. What we didn’t realize is that we were visiting during their peak summer festival season. The street performers and musicians graced the sidewalks as you passed by groups of people dressed in costumes and unique outfits. The crowds were huge by mid-day and we kept seeing the double decker red buses pass us and by and made a mental note we should get on one of those to beat the crowds. We made our way to the Frederick House Hotel to drop off the bags and go on an adventure to the streets of Edinburgh. The hotel was a Georgian home right in the town center and about a five minute walk away from Princes Street. The hotel had a clean and modern feel to the rooms. I have never stayed in a place without air conditioning and we just so happened to be there one the warmest and driest seasons they were having. When I read online about the area I was thinking that I would be needing my raincoat at all times. I still carried it in my small backpack just in case it did start raining. I also had a sweater in my bag and a short sleeve shirt under all that to say that you need to dress in layers when you are there. I think I had taken off and put on all my lawyers every hour or so. You will be happy that you bring around a small backpack with you. Sure you will look like a tourist but that doesn’t matter because you will be comfortable and be able to enjoy the day at your own pace. We had a short time in the city, only two nights. I would have loved to had more time in the town but we did six miles the first day just walking around and exploring and we walked nine miles the second day. 

Once we stepped out into the streets of the town we really didn’t have a place to just start exploring. We walked to the Grassmarket and decided to sit down at a pub called “The Last Drop” and enjoy a cold beer on the sunny summer day. The patio tables were full and we sat down on a stoop hugged into the building and as we were enjoying the live music a waitress came to tell us we can’t sit there. It’s a private residence. We looked at the side wall and there is a plaque saying it’s an air bnb. “Whoops” we get up and suddenly a patio table opens up. We sit there and enjoy the street musician and chat with a nice solo traveler as we think of what to do next. As someone who is a total Harry Potter nerd, some of the first things I wanted to do when we went there was to see some of the places J.K. Rolling was inspired by and modeled some of the cultural aspects inside of her novels. Wandering through the streets of Edinburgh feels like stepping right into a magical world, especially for any Harry Potter fan. The vibes here are just chef’s kisses. We decided to do a loop around the famous curved street Victoria Street. The shops are painted in bright colors and have some of the most amazingly curated items. Scottish tweed clothing and accessories bags, wallets, hats, and even converse. Cashmere blankets, scarfs, and gloves. The bookshop there was so fabulous with old books stacked to the ceiling and right beside it was a store dedicated to Harry Potter and as you can imagine it was very crowed and busy there was a que out the door to check it out. As much as we wanted to spend more time in the shops with our limited amount of time, we were more interested in seeing the city then spending time in shops. 

We strolled over to Greyfriars Kirkyard, where the legend of Greyfriars Bobby lives on. People say rubbing his nose brings good luck, and trust me, I wasn’t going to miss that! This is an iconic place because of the story of the Skye Terrier, the exceptionally loyal dog who guarded his master’s grave inside of the Kirkyard for 14 years. ‘Bobby’ was the name of the terrier who belonged to John Gray, a night watchman for the Edinburgh Police. The two were inseparable for two years. However in February 1858, Gray died of tuberculosis. He was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard. Bobby spent the rest of his life sitting on his master’s grave. The gardener and keeper of the Greyfriars tried many occasions to remove Bobby, but in the end they felt bad for the little dog. He built a shelter and was red regularly. Bobby never spent a night away from his master’s grave even in the most dismal weather conditions. When Bobby died in 1872 he was buried right inside the gate of the Kirkyard near John’s grave. The state is there to immortalize the love of man’s best friend and heart warming story of true love.

Then, right there in the kirkyard, we stumbled upon the very names that J.K. Rowling herself drew inspiration from—Thomas Riddle, Professor McGonagall…it’s like the magic was all around us, just waiting to be discovered. Pure inspiration. Unfortunately, McGonagall’s grave was tampered with, so a new plaque had to be placed there. I did my best to capture the eerie yet beautiful ambiance of the graveyard, especially at dusk or dawn. Growing up, I wasn’t allowed to read Harry Potter because it was considered “of the devil.” I started reading the series in college and fell in love with the books, which I now reread every year. Learning about the struggles that J.K. Rowling went through while walking down the street that inspired her truly makes you appreciate the rejection she faced for her manuscript and how she kept pushing through with a story she believed in. Art is meant for you; it doesn’t matter what others think. If you believe in your art, it will find its way to the right people.

We ended the long adventure day with a meal at the Rose Street Brewery that was once called Nicholson’s Ale and Gin House. The character of the building was so warm and welcoming. The restaurant was a brewery for over 150 years. It was located on the first floor of the building where ‘Auld Reekie Ale’ was produced. ‘Auld Reekie’, reek meaning smoke, is a traditional nickname for Edinburgh, a nod to the smoky brewing processes. They had traditional menu items like their famous meat pies, seafood soup cullen skink, haggis, neeps, & tatties. We enjoyed a meat pie with beef rib, skin, and pulled brisket and a dish called balmoral chicken, a roasted chicken breast with haggis stuffed inside, wrapped in smoked black bacon and a whiskey sauce. It was the perfect end to a long day and when we made it back to the Fredrick House Hotel there was no problem falling asleep except for when I woke up at 12am to ask for a fan because the hotel was so hot (no air conditioning in Europe). That was a life saver and we were able to get back to sleep to prepare for a long last day in the amazing city. 

Travel To Scotland – Isle of Butte

The unattainable beauty of Scotland is truly awe inspiring first to the eyes, then to the heart and
spirit. As the hills rise up from the sea and the mossy green color covering the trees and the
stacked rock fences. It was easy to feel a sense of coming home a familiar feeling down deep in
your bones. The rush of the wind sweeping off the sea and the rain even it feels friendly
welcoming as it pours down. The subtle grey of the har the thick sea fog floating across the water and the rocks of the sea side. Being that close to the bay and hearing the sea at night with the St Blanes house facing out toward the sea and on the horizon an incredible vast country side.The weather is something the locals tend to start and end a conversation with because it’s not always as idealie as a new comer wants to imagine. The shelter that the beautiful three story home of the St Blane was a magnificent refuge. It’s clock tower and black top hat stick out in the distance from Kilchattan Bay amongst the row houses facing out to the beach and sea. The homes that the Scottish people have created to shield them from the strong sea breeze and rain are truly so welcoming and warm like a blanket hugging you around your shoulders. Then there are the windows of Scotland that truly touch your spirit when you think about all hose who have been looking out of the windows before you. Maybe they were once looking out the windows hoping to see their husband back from battle, they were looking to see their children playing in the courtyard, or a someone walking their dog along the seaside in the
morning. Those windows they are the looking glass through which Scotland is adored. The great artisans of the world with their stunning craftmanship and eye for stunning detail. From windows as simple as a square, arched, short, and long, they are tell a unique and interesting story of the deep history displaying inside the panes of glass of the windows of Scotland.

What is a travel experience but a journey with little side shoots along the way to whatever the
destination may be. Traveling abroad for the first time or from the United States to Scotland as
we like to sweetly say “across the pond”. Modern advancements of air taxis are so wonderful and can be even luxuries for most. There was a lot learn in the process of how to not make your
travel experience a worrisome journey. The many hours of flying and running to make
connecting flights, only packing what we can carry on showed me I think it might be fitting for
me to live out of a suitcase after all I don’t need stuff, I just want to experience new amazing
adventures that leave me with so much more wonder and excitement than any physical item
could fulfill me. That is other than an amazing raincoat and a cashmere scarf when it comes to
Scotland travel. When the long flights were finished and the copious amounts of airport coffee
were drank we finally arrived to Scotland. We flew into Glasgow this is important for
American’s it’s pronounced “glass-go”. Soon you will understand the Scottish like to write in the
way they talk it’s so fun to listen to and hear there subtle nuance. We then took a train to
Wemyss Bay and then the ferry to Kilchattan Bay and the historic St Blanes house.

When we arrived to Whymess Bay we stopped across from one of Europe’s most beloved and
old train stations it had a lovely Victorian style. There was a fish and chips shop and we had to
try our first round for the UK. As you can imagine it was some of the most amazing fish and
chips of my life! We love fish and chips in the US and I am telling you nothing was as fresh and
delicious you can tell the oils they fry it in are so clean. It was a whole fish and the chips or
potatoes were incredible they wrapped it up in paper for us and doused it in vinegar. It was
pipping hot and that didn’t stop me burning my tongue and not having taste buds for the next two days just to eat this incredible meal so worth it. We stood there on a beautiful stone bench that was a tribute to the World War II soldiers that lost their lives in battle from the town.
Looking out across the bay and waiting for the ferry to arrive. When the ship came in with a load
of cars they quickly unboarded and the next que of vehicles boarded the vessel. One being a
truck and trailer and a bull and his eyes glaring as he looked out of the slat in the trailer. We went to the front of the ferry to look out across the water and take in our first glance of the pristine country side of Scotland. Looking out onto the steep green and yellow hills covered in a grey fog and some towering high into the distance looking toward to Highlands. As we approached the coast of Rothsay you see a beautiful row of white and brick houses facing out to the sea. Then the Glenburn Hotel towering up along the coast nestled by trees and hill sides. You find yourself in the port packed with sailboats and a long history of marine life. The town is very story book with its Rothsay Castle ruins and moat quite literally in the middle of the small town. In the town you will find a wee pub and some amazing antique shops. Each road winding down the little town looks so cool and unique the simple things like just a road that people drive down daily are inspiring because they are just so different than the bleak black tar and cement block buildings that we see daily in the states. Their roads have been here so long they are even cobblestone in most places. It’s small and there isn’t a lot of room for even two cars to drive on at the same time. This means you must stop more and be moving at a slower pace. There was a sense of being like the snail not moving too fast or ever be rushing around. There was one day we decided to cross the street and quickly ran past to get to the other side. I never once saw another person do that or move that way across the town as if in a hurry to get somewhere even if they do have somewhere to be. That to me was a big realization for me. The ride to get to Kilkattan Bay is so picturesque you start winding down tiny roads that have ancient rock fences running all along the roadside. The hills pop up on each side with sheep from top to bottom. You see hay fields and cows,horses, and a lot of agriculture. It’s all met by the sea.

Mont Stewart House, neo-gothic mansion nestled on the Isle of Bute, Scotland, stands as a timeless sentinel overlooking the sea, its grandeur a reflection of both its storied past and the hands that have shaped it through generations. The exterior, a harmonious Gothic Revival influences, invites you in with its intricate carvings, each telling a story carved in stone. The chapel windows, the heart of the house, captivate with their delicate tracery, casting ethereal patterns of light across the sacred space, a silent dance of faith and artistry. Moving through the home, the windows adorned with zodiac signs and seasonal reflections come alive with crystals that catch the sun, projecting a kaleidoscope of nature’s beauty into the rooms. Every chamber whispers of the lives that have passed through, the walls bearing the marks of countless clans, each molding this space with care. The stained-glass windows, vibrant with the family’s crests, are a testament to the enduring legacy of the house- -a home where history lives on, embraced by the descendants who still call it their own. When you enter homes like this that are not considered a castle but in my eyes it’s just as magnificent. It really reminds you of the greatness of humans, our true potential and if that is still the potential we hold today? Something so grand so artistic with every inch of the home displaying a story or holding a rumored past with the design details. It makes me want to be that great, of course their families before them upheld a lot of this grandeur by being born noble and wealthy. It still isn’t just about the family who built the home but the craftsman who did the design work and brought the visions to life to live on for centuries to come. Sitting in one of the rooms of the house that looked to the sea over a large grassy lawn we enjoyed treats and tea. I tried the Scottish haggis for the first time and somewhat forgot its contents on purpose so that I would actually try it. The way they prepared it was delicious with caramelized onions and inside of a roll. Then we tried scones and jam with clotted cream that was divine. We looked at the art collection on the walls that was so old and some with traditional paintings of stories of the bible, one with a depiction of Orpheus and his fiddle playing to all the animals that surrounded him: cats, dogs, cows, and even a unicorn. Once again looking out of the windows in that room with the green and the grey landscape and the sea in the horizon the magnificence is truly amazing.

We made our way into the main house. You are greeted by the magnificent Marble Hall that has over twenty types of marble displayed. What really draws your eye up toward the sky’s is the Zodiac-inspired stained glass modeled after Greek mythology and astrology. Each zodiac sign is displayed in the stained glass windows and they are placed in a way that displays different seasons; Spring colored in deep emerald greens, Summer reds and oranges, and purples and blues represent Autumn and Winter. It is so incredible that the hall’s vaulted ceiling is also adored with the constellations and crystals that would shine through the light in the ceiling and help you to connect the constellations. The original Mount Stewart House tragically burned down in the early 18th century but was meticulously rebuilt by the 3rd Earl of Bute, who preserved the surviving chapel windows and integrated them into the new structure, blending the remnants of the old with his own visionary design. The chapel had a holy sound to it as I couldn’t help but sing Amazing Grace to the rafters and soak in the blessings of this sweet chapel that holds the prayers of many Scottish people. The acoustics of the chapel at Mount Stewart House were meticulously considered in its Gothic Revival design, creating an environment where sound resonates with a clarity and richness that enhances the spiritual experience. The vaulted ceiling, with its graceful arches and ribbed structure, plays a crucial role in this. It not only elevates the visual sense but also allows sound to travel upwards and outward, dispersing it evenly throughout the space. The stone walls, with their smooth surfaces and intricate carvings, contribute to a balanced reverberation, ensuring that voices and music fill the chapel with a warm, full-bodied sound without overwhelming echoes creating a sense of immersion and connection to the divine. The double-encased windows, while primarily designed for insulation and protection, also help control the acoustics by preventing external noise from penetrating the sacred space. This design choice ensures that the chapel remains a serene place, where every note and word can be heard clearly, fostering an atmosphere of contemplation and reverence. The overall acoustic design of the chapel reflects a deep understanding of both the aesthetic and sensory elements of worship, making it a place
where architecture and sound converge to elevate the spiritual experience. The chapel at Mont Stewart House is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, its design steeped in symbolic meaning and religious devotion. Constructed from locally quarried sandstone, the chapel’s exterior exudes a warm, earthy tone, softened by the passage of time. The stone, intricately carved with delicate tracery, frames the windows, which are a defining feature of the structure. These windows are double-encased, a technique that adds depth and insulation, while also protecting the intricate stained glass within. The stained glass itself is a vibrant tapestry of color, depicting religious scenes, saints, and the family’s heraldic symbols. Each window is crowned with a pointed arch, a hallmark of Gothic design, directing the eye upwards towards the heavens. Inside, the floor of the chapel is laid with a stunning mosaic of encaustic
tiles, each hand-crafted and arranged to form intricate geometric patterns. These patterns are not merely decorative; they are imbued with meaning, representing spiritual paths, the journey of life, and the connection between the earthly and the divine. The central aisle features a repeating motif of a labyrinth, symbolizing the soul’s journey towards enlightenment. The vaulted ceiling of the chapel, supported by slender, clustered columns, adds to the sense of height and lightness, drawing the eyes upward, as if encouraging contemplation and prayer. The overall effect of the architecture, with its harmonious blend of stone, glass, and light, creates a sacred space that invites reflection, steeped in the rich history and enduring faith of the family who built and continue to cherish it. Before his conversion to Catholicism, John Stuart, the 3rd Earl of Bute, was an Anglican, which was the established church of England and Scotland at the time. His shift to Catholicism later in life marked a significant departure from the religious tradition in
which he was raised. John Stuart, the 3rd Earl of Bute, was a significant figure in 18th-century
Britain, best known as the Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1762 to 1763. Born in 1713, he
was an influential advisor to King George III and played a key role in the politics of the time.
After his political career, Bute became increasingly interested in religion and spirituality,
eventually converting to Catholicism in the 1780s. His conversion was a profound personal
decision, reflecting his deepening faith and a move away from the public life that had once
defined him.

In Mont Stewart House, there is a powerful tapestry that tells the story of a traditional Scottish hunt. The scene is set in the wild Scottish Highlands, where a group of Scottish men, clad in their tartan kilts, have just returned from a successful hunt. The men, strong and determined, are shown carrying their prey. -majestic stags that have been brought down after a long, challenging pursuit The tapestry captures the moment just after the hunt, with the stags lying on the ground, their lifeless bodies a stark contrast to the proud hunters standing tall beside them. The men are gathered together, some holding their spears, others resting from the exhausting chase. Their faces show a mix of triumph and respect for the animals they have hunted, reflecting the deep connection between the Scots and the land they live on. Around them, the landscape is rugged and wild, with rolling hills, dense forests, and a sky that seems to stretch endlessly above. The colors in the tapestry are muted and earthy, with rich browns, deep greens, and touches of red in the men’s kilts. The detail is remarkable. You can see the texture of the stags’ fur, the pattern of the tartans, and even the expressions on the men’s faces This tapestry not only depicts a hunting scene but also tells a story of survival, tradition, and the bond between the Scottish people and their land. It’s a piece that has been admired for generations, serving as a reminder of the rugged beauty of Scotland and the timeless traditions that have shaped its history.

Introduction About Sammy’s Travel Blog

Growing up in a small town, I always had a big imagination. The countryside of Eastern Oklahoma was beautiful in its own way—with green rolling hills, the Illinois River, and Lake Tenkiller as our summer refuge. But even as a kid, my mind would wander far beyond those places.

As a rancher’s daughter, my world was rooted in the land. My sisters and I spent most of our days outside, building teepees out of sticks and old quilts, climbing trees, and exploring the acres around us. We didn’t travel much—ranch life means staying close to care for the animals. But the few trips we did take really stuck with me: Breckenridge, Colorado… Disney World in Florida… Silver Dollar City and Table Rock Lake in Missouri… and one big road trip to Washington, D.C., where we saw the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol building. We always drove. With a family of six and a tight budget, the road trip itself became part of the adventure.

My childhood was pretty sheltered too. I grew up in the Pentecostal church and didn’t really see the harsher side of the world. I’ll never forget the time we stopped in New Orleans on the way to Florida and drove down Bourbon Street. My dad just wanted to see it. We didn’t get far before my mom screamed, “Girls, get in the floor, don’t look!”—right as we passed a man painted gold… and completely naked. That was a whole new world for me. Even then, what stuck with me most about traveling wasn’t just the places—it was the people.

When it came time for college, I didn’t really want to go. My real dream was to move to Austin and play country music in a band. But my mom, being a teacher, didn’t really give me that option. I applied to only two schools—one in my hometown (where I had a music scholarship) and one about three hours away. At the last minute, I chose the one farther from home. I needed to “see the world,” even if that world started with Oklahoma City.

That move opened up so much for me. I met amazing people, including a group of musicians who lived like it was still Laurel Canyon in 1969. They introduced me to a whole new way of life, one that matched my curiosity for yoga, consciousness, and creativity. We played at local bars and festivals, camped out in fields, drank whiskey, and made music all night. I still kept up with my college classes—I was studying music business—and started traveling to festivals during the summers.

One year I almost bought a ticket to a music festival in Spain, but my friend bailed and I didn’t feel confident going alone. I was heartbroken not to go—but life gave me another chance to visit Europe later on, and it was everything I hoped it would be.

While I was in college, I was working at a coffee shop when a guy with sparkling blue eyes and a huge beard walked in. We clicked right away—talking about music, yoga, and the mountains. After he left, I wrote a poem about him, dreaming that he’d sweep me away to the mountains one day. Ten years later, he’s my husband… and he really did.

We’ve done a lot of traveling together since then. We’re not luxury travelers, and I kind of love that. Our favorite days are the ones spent outside, hiking and exploring. When we’re in a new city, we walk a lot. I always joke that my husband is the worst tour guide because we’ll go from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. without eating—but we’ll have had coffee and beer!

There are places that we have frequented in the past and places we have only gone once together and dream of coming back and trying new things! Some of the places we have visited are: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, New York, Scotland UK and where we now call home Northern New Mexico. There are obviously so many places that we would still love to add to our bucket list of travel and are planning trips this year to Colorado. You can tell we like this spot. This blog will give you advice on all the things we love to do when we travel like hiking trails, coffee spots, restaurants, and charming hostels, and the occasional luxury hotel (depending on the location). I hope you enjoy and am looking forward to hearing about your recent and past travels as well!