I haven't traveled since the pandemic hit and tremendously miss exploring new places both locally and abroad. There's something magical about visiting a new city, observing how locals spend their time, tasting new foods, and making new memories.
This past weekend my siblings and I stayed in a lovely Airbnb hidden in the Russian River Valley woods. We spent quality family time for my sister's birthday in a place surrounded by majestic redwoods and a rushing river that flows through the greater Sonoma County into the Pacific Ocean.
Day 1
On Friday, we went to the Korbel Champagne Cellars to taste some bubbles. We got lucky with the weather, so I chose to wear an outfit that gave me summer vibes. I bust out my favorite cottagecore skirt from Uniqlo x JW Anderson. Sometimes, the skirt can seem boxy, so I wore an Urban Outfitters crop top that complemented the skirt's high waistband. The outfit's colors matched my trusty Longchamp tote and Neiman Marcus earrings. For the shoes, I opted for simple brown Steve Madden sandals, which were perfect for an entire day spent on foot.
Following COVID-19 safety measures, we set a reservation in advance, so we didn't wait long for our tasting. Our table was set outside and we enjoyed a lovely view of the green vineyard as we sipped on different champagnes.
Out of the five champagnes we sampled, Korbel's Prosecco DOC was by far my favorite. Its light bubbles were delicate to the touch and small sips of it enlivened my nostrils with its boisterous fruity aroma. After our tasting we explored the grounds for a bit and took obligatory birthday photos with Anna, the Scorpio star of our family.
For her special day, Anna wore a lace crop top from French Connection, an Anthropologie skirt, Louise et Cie shoes, J.Crew earrings, and a gifted purse from Poland. When I asked why she chose to wear a summery head-to-toe outfit, she said she didn't get to rock as many summery looks as she hoped to, since she spend most days cooped up inside due to the pandemic.
"I'm going to miss the simplicity of simple skirts and dresses," Anna said mournfully about losing summer.
One wouldn't even think her look was that simple because Anna mixed clashing textures, which seamlessly molded into the perfect outfit for a day of celebrating and drinking champagne.
After our tasting, we strolled through Guerneville. There weren't many tourists, so we got to explore stores without fear of spending too much time surrounded by others. We stumbled upon a renovated historical establishment called the Guerneville Bank Club, which was originally built in 1921. We climbed the steps and were struck by the space's bright interior design illuminated by lovely natural lighting that streamed in through large windows.
The space is home to Nimble & Finn's ice-cream, Chile Pies, and JAM JAR that curates vintage and local goods. After browsing through plenty of hand-made jewelry and candles, we had some tasty affogato. The rich vanilla ice-cream melted perfectly with flavorful smooth espresso, which we enjoyed.
After a caffeinated sugar-rush, we window-shopped and then stepped into a small thrift store with a plethora of consignment items called Gypsy Sisters. Shortly after sifting through multiple clothing racks, we finally headed back to our Airbnb.
Friday evening, my brother made a tasty seafood broil, which he cooked in a kazan. He treated us to tasty lobster, mussels, and shrimp, which paired well with white wine.
Afterwards, we assembled for our book club, which he organized.
We ended off the night by discussing part one of the novel Cutting for Stone, while answering plot-focused questions. Coincidentally, Anna won our mini "Part One Quiz" (note to self: take better notes)!
Day 2
The smell of a warm breakfast woke me up on Saturday morning. I groggily stumbled downstairs and saw a wonderful waffle stack beautifully assembled in the center of the dining table.
We ate delicious waffles that my brother's fiancée made for us and then headed to Goat Rock Beach.
We enjoyed the fresh ocean air, napped, snacked, and then headed back home to relax in our Airbnb's jacuzzi.
After an eventful Friday evening, we all wanted to rest. We didn't feel any guilt for just lounging around the home. There's something about traveling that even when you're still stuck in a home elsewhere, at least you're elsewhere! We loved the change of scenery, fresh air, and quality time so much that we even forgot there's havoc all around us.
I'd love to give a big shout-out to Anna for organizing such a lovely weekend getaway for her birthday. She wished for a restful weekend, which is exactly what she and the rest of us got.
For those of you in California itching to get away from your everyday space, I highly recommend checking out the coast! There are so many lovely spots along Highway 1, so head online to search for some cool spots in Sonoma County or even in Mendocino!
The options are truly endless and any place along the Northern Californian coast is a blissful dream.
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