Nicole Bushhouse

Tucked just south of the California border, Valle de Guadalupe is Mexico’s best-kept secret, and it won’t stay that way for long. This sun-drenched wine region pairs rugged desert beauty with world-class vineyards, farm-to-table cuisine, and a laid-back, unpolished charm that feels worlds away from Napa. Whether you’re chasing bold reds, artisanal mezcal, or open-air dining under the stars, Valle invites you to slow down and savor every moment.

Arriving in Austin feels like a warm hug. People are incredibly friendly and sociable that you feel welcomed at once. There is an abundance of good food in Austin, so much innovative talent and creativity on display. I spend a lot of my time there eating and drinking and have gathered a list of favorites for you along with cool things to do and see.

Austin is a land of plenty — plenty of food, music, laughter, fun and outdoor beauty. If you’re able to stay for more than 4 or 5 days, I recommend adding on a few nights at one of the resorts outside of town. You can fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area as well as enjoy urban activities.

As a Midwesterner, I’ve always been more familiar with the Great Lakes than the Jersey Shore, until very recently. My favorite little Oceanside town, Cape May, New Jersey, reminds me of a small Northern Michigan beach village with the enormous Hydrangea, candy-colored Victorian homes and hotels and wholesome beach fun. This guide routes you through Philadelphia and either a 2-hour car or bus ride to get you to the beach. If you’re looking for a nostalgic, family-friendly coastal getaway, this is your place. While you’re there, grab some extra salt water taffy for me!

Santa Fe is a place that feels like a second home to me. I've been taking an annual road trip down there from Denver for close to 10 years now. I’ve convinced other friends to come along for the ride or meet me down there, and they have fallen in love as well. Hands down, my favorite season in the Land of Enchantment is in Autumn. With it being a little further south and a drier climate, Fall happens a little bit later than it does in Denver. I go down in late October to soak up the last of the sunshine and admire the shimmering yellows of the Aspen and Cottonwood trees. It is a time of year when there starts to be a chill in the evening air. But you still eat outside and wrap yourself in a cozy blanket. You smell the Pinon wood burning and feel the warmth from your Kiva.

Santa Fe is a place completely unique to itself, from the architecture to the food, art and landscape. It’s on my list of Top 3 North American Cities. When I visit, I’ve got my standbys that I must do and eat, but somehow I always find something new too.

I’ve lived in Denver nearly 20 years and one of my favorite escapes from city life is heading to the Foothills to hike and be in nature. Hiking is a year-round activity in a place where the sun typically shines 300 days a year. Here I’ve gathered a few of the best hikes near Denver including places to refuel after your hike.