Merry & Bright, Happy & Healthy

Here here!

Friends! Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season, a Happy Channuka, a Merry Meri(!) Christmas and the start of your most joyful year yet. For this bookend'ed holiday week, Dr. H and I are taking our overdue Anniversary Adventure and this year a winter wonderland excursion of epic proportions is on tap.

Our adventure will include this:

exploring the Finnish Laplands by Husky

and this:

we will be riding in a Sven sleigh and visiting a Sven farm!

and hopefully a little of this:

Fingers & toes crossed for an Aurora Borealis siting!

We'll wrap things up by ringing in the New Year surrounded by this:

A very Copenhagen New Year!

shine bright!

So until next year, here's wishing each and every one of you a Merry & Bright, Happy & Healthy. If you're looking to do some blog reading, check out my Seek to Be Merry Year 3 Recap HERE and just in time for Christmas, there's an amazing reading of the Grinch Who Stole Christmas HERE. See you in 2015!! Xox - Meri

Costa Rica is for Adventurers

Annnnd we're back! Dr. H and I have returned from our whirlwind trip to Costa Rica which included hiking in the rainforest, zip-lining through the canopy, spotting toucanettes, snakes and tarantulas, experiencing our first noteworthy earthquake, strolling on a beautiful Pacific ocean beach and most importantly, spending some quality time with a most favorite friend, Q. Costa Rica my friends, is divine. Though I haven't uploaded my camera pics yet, it was such a great trip that I thought I'd share a bit about our adventures and iPhone images today, with more to come whenever I get my act together and edit all my "real" photos.

For the first 3 nights of our trip, we stayed at the Hotel Belmar located in Monteverde, which is a small town in the north-west-middle-ish part of Costa Rica, home to several "cloud forest reserves". These cloud forests are incredible rainforests in the mountains, overflowing with plant life and animals, many of which are found more densely in Monteverde than most other places in the world. The weather changes literally every minute in Monteverde, varying from bright sunshine, to mist, to pouring rain depending on what cloud is briefly floating overhead. It's incredible.

Hiking, day and night is what you go to Monteverde for, but they also have lots of "eco-tourism" activities for adventurers like zip-lining, hanging bridges and horseback riding. Also lots of places to see butterflies, reptiles, amphibians and hummingbirds up close.

If you're visiting Monteverde, I cannot recommend Hotel Belmar, where my buddy Q is working, highly enough. The rooms and facilities are beautiful, the food in their restaurant is knock-your-socks off delicious and the staff is incredibly friendly and accommodating. Like everyone in Monteverde, they are proud of where they live and eager to make sure you love it as much as they do. 

We spent the last 18 hours(ish) of our trip in Playa Hermosa, a small beach town located about 20 minutes from Liberia International airport. If black sand beaches, gorgeous sunsets and insanely cheap fresh ceviche/massages/shaved ice on the beach are your thing... go here.

I had to beg Dr. H to stand up & take this photo...
I'm really glad I did.

As usual, I spent the last few hours of my vacation wondering why on earth I live in a crowded city, spend the majority of my days sitting at a desk and relegate activities like hiking, exploring and strolling on the beach to just a fraction of my time... but I guess that's what makes travelling and vacations so magical. And sure, I could pack up and move to the jungle or settle into a life somewhere exotic by the sea (I've certainly considered it!), but I know eventually I would miss my "real life" - my amazing family and friends, my meaningful work and even the sparkling skyscrapers and bustling pace of New York City. So I guess I'll just make sure I keep getting away, as often as possible, to amazing pockets of the earth like Costa Rica. I hope you do too:)

Our Tour de France

As you may remember, last month Dr. H and I celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary by treating ourselves to a vacation in France (I'm a very lucky girl). Our trip was beyond wonderful and admittedly a bit unique, so I thought I'd share some pics, tips and inspiration for your own adventure in the Loire!

I first got the idea to go bike riding in France from an article I read (somewhere, I've had no luck re-finding that first inspiration!) and given our shared love of the outdoors, biking and wine, Dr. H was on board immediately. The Loire is also home to some of the worlds most gorgeous chateaux (castles) so this fairy tale loving lady was ready to go!

From my mystery article, I knew that there are tour companies which specialize in travel-by-bicycle itineraries.  I found Inntravel, a UK based company, through Google (how did we live without Google?!) and LOVED all of their location options, highly organized itineraries and price points (though not inexpensive, the pricing is, in my opinion, very fair for the level of services, accommodations and meals). After doing lots of research, reading a ton of reviews and being impressed by their email responsiveness, Dr. H and I took the plunge on Inntravel's "Chateaux of the Loire" 6-night holiday which we felt was the perfect length of time, distance traveled and site-seeing trip for us. And it was:

Azay-le-Rideau

Villandry

Usse

Saumur

Fromage (mmm fromage)

Somewhere between Montsoreau & Fontevraud

               

This forest....

Chinon

Just outside Azay

I could go on for days about the rich history and culture of each location that we visited, the deliciousness of the fresh cheeses and breads and the friendliness of the local people, but to be brief, I cannot recommend highly enough a visit this area of the world. It is the definition of charming, quaint, relaxing, rich and beautiful. And if you're brave enough, I cannot think of a better way to see it than by bicycle. 

Merry Meri & Dr. H adventure abroad tips:

* Don't be afraid to be different. 

Though we didn't know anyone who had taken a trip like this before, the online reviews were excellent and we really felt that the idea suited us. Don't be afraid to try something totally new!

* Know what you're looking for.

Dr. H and I love foreign cultures, being outdoors, eating well, and a combination of adventuring and relaxing. We hate crowded or overly toursity areas. This trip allowed us to be completely on our own, but with plenty of the frills (bag transports, detailed directions, pre-arranged accommodations) that made us comfortable and confident.

* Be realistic about what you can plan; if needed, work with a vendor you trust.

It was a leap to use InnTravel based purely on internet research, but we could not have executed our itinerary without professional experience and assistance. We didn't know the area intimately enough and even my OCD planning skills would have fallen short. Find an agent or company that makes you feel confident that no matter what, everything will be ok. (ps- we LOVED Inntravel and plan to use them again for other bike adventures in the future!)

* Just relax and enjoy.

We got lost. We missed meal times and had to improvise... our vacation was far from "perfect" but that's what made it PERFECT. Whatever trip you plan, roll with it and make the best of each day, even if it doesn't go exactly as planned.

Where to stay?

My kind of Paris apartment!

As has become our own lovely little tradition, Dr. H and I are currently planning an overseas adventure in celebration of our wedding anniversary. This year we're treating ourselves to a "cycling holiday in the Loire" (oui oui!) followed by two nights in Paris (ooh la la!) Ever the adventurers, we are presently debating whether to stay in a Paris hotel, or to rent a small apartment for an authentic Parisian experience.

Have you ever rented a home or apartment instead of staying in a hotel? Lately tons of trustworthy and user friendly home rental sites have popped up (airbnb and homeaway seem the most popular) and it's easy to see the appeal of living among the locals in your own private residence instead of in a single room, one tourist of many in a hotel. I've personally had some amazing home rental experiences in places like Maine and Vermont, but I did once end up in an errr, "rustic" beach house with axes on the wall for decor. You win some, you lose some!! For those of you up for a different kind of adventure, here are some Merry Meri and Dr. H guidelines for renting vs. checking into a hotel:

* You don't want to feel like a squatter in a complete stranger's home. The property should be be sufficiently de-personalized, tidy and clean. Though some don't mind, I prefer an apartment or house that's set up for renters without too much of the owner's stuff everywhere.

* Renting an apartment can be a great way to experience a city's most expensive neighborhoods at a fraction of the cost of a hotel, BUT look closely at what's included in the per night cost. Linens, towels and cleaning fees may be extra and those costs may eliminate the savings you thought you were getting.

* Take time to read the reviews! Dr. H and I are brave, but not brave enough to be the first guests at a rental property. See what previous guests have to say about their stay and make sure the reviews are fairly recent. Some sites also have property owner "responsiveness" ratings which are very helpful. You don't want to rent from someone who is slow to respond and will make you worried a few days out as to whether your booking is good to go.

* Think about the type of trip you want to have. If it's appealing to wander through neighborhoods or head to a market and prepare your own breakfast (baguette and cheese anyone!?), an apartment might be perfect for you. But, if you're looking to be waited on and pampered (who doesn't love housekeeping's daily visit!?), a hotel may be a better fit.

Saturn's Return

What is it you plan to do?

Have you ever heard of "Saturn Return"? Recently, Dr. H and I were hanging out with one of our more fabulous friends, and she told us about an astrological "moment" that's happening to us right now. You see, Saturn return is when Saturn returns to the same point in the sky that it occupied at the moment of your birth. It is an alleged phenomenon which supposedly influences a person's life development at 27 to 29 year intervals or "returns" (coinciding with the approximate time it takes Saturn to make one orbit around the sun (29.4 years)). It is believed by astrologers that, as Saturn "returns" to the degree in its orbit occupied at the time of your birth, you cross over a major threshold and enter the next stage of life. With the first Saturn return (28-30) you leave youth behind and enter adulthood; with the second return (56-60) maturity; and with the third and usually final return (84-90) wise old age. 

I am a believer in the stars and the mystical accuracy of astrology (I am a Cancer crab through and through) so I bought into this concept immediately. There's something powerful about transition and something empowering about knowing that this is the threshold of whatever you choose to have happen next.

Be brave. Make moves.

Even though I'm no longer in school, the start of fall still has a "new year" feel for me. With the lazy sunny summer behind us, I like to think about what I want the year ahead to look like. Good thing I have a 3-day weekend to sunbathe and mull it over:) Thanks for the planetary motivation Saturn.

See you in September!

Vacation for me, F.I.T.S. of merriment for you.

Bar Harbor, Maine HERE I COME!

HEY-O my merry friends!! It's Friday and I'm going on VACATION!!! WOOOO!!! And this isn't a long-weekend/mini-adventure/business-mixed-with-pleasure trip either... this is 7 consecutive days of cubicle free, lobster chowing, family time in Bar Harbor, Maine. I'll be with my whole extended family, enjoying the great outdoors and eating copious amounts of fresh seafood. Life is good.

In an effort to truly get away, I'm going to put not just work, but some of my more time consuming hobbies (ehgm) on hold while I'm gone. 'Tis necessary for a true "recharge". Buuuuut, you lovely folks are finally turning up in decent numbers (growing everyday!) and I didn't have it in my heart to leave you all alone. SO, for the first time ever, Seektobemerry presents F.I.T.S.! Every day next week I will give you something Funny, something Interesting, something Tasty and a Site I love - hence, F.I.T.S.!! It's like a week of meatier Hump Day Distractions (which I know yous love) that I can get all queue'd up before I peace out. So come back next week just like you always do (bring your friends!) and try not to miss me too much:) 

[Full disclosure - I have not cooked most of the food I will be designating as "Tasty" (who do you think I am, freaking Julia Childs!?) but the pictures look delicious and the recipes are fairly uncomplicated so they're on my "to do" list and hopefully will earn a spot on yours as well.]

Destination Newport.

The Cliff Walk - Newport, RI / I heart New England.

Now that the season for chilly weekend getaways has passed us by, it's time to chat about spring/summer destinations (nothing beats the Mondays better than dreaming about a Friday!) Though I'd never visited before last summer, I've been to Newport, Rhode Island three times this year and I'm in lurve. From the stunning and outdoorsy Cliff Walk, to the  ridiculously fresh seafood and bumpin bar scene, Newport is my new favorite mini-adventure!

Plenty of good meals to be eaten at places like The Mooring (go for the lobster, crab and shrimp doughnuts, stay for the excellent martinis), and get your fresh air/"I did something active today" fix by walking (and at times rock hopping) on the infamous Newport Cliff Walk.

The lobster roll (bottom) was tasty, but the lobster grilled cheese
(top) really took me to culinary heaven (eaten on Bowen's Wharf)

You can shop for adorable knickknacks (unsurprisingly, I am a "chachki" junkie), jewelry, and preppy nautical themed apparel for hours (my heaven) or go for a boat cruise around the harbor and coast.

Don't forget your Topsiders!

And just when you thought it couldn't get any better, Newport has an awesome drink/dance/party scene. It's a city filled with people chilling (jazz festival) getting fresh air (sailboat racing) or celebrating (bachelorette parties, weddings, reunions) and the restaurants and bars set a perfect scene for everything from sunset cocktails to late night dance parties. Newport is a historical town by the sea that adores cocktails, celebrations, outdoor adventurers and relaxation... are you packing your bags yet?

Love me a good music festival (on the water = even better!)

Mini-Adventure Anyone?

Via Pinterest

I find that a weekend getaway is the perfect activity for shaking off the winter blues. All of the darkness and cold of the season give me a serious case of the "ho hums" and it can be hard to coordinate week-long vacations! A weekend trip is just long enough to feel like a vacation, but short enough to squeeze into a day or two. Here's some mini-adventure inspiration for your pre-weekend eyes... 

Tarrytown, NY (the wood-sy farm inn)

http://www.oncewed.com/32294/wedding-blog/real-weddings/elegant-new-york-farm-wedding-ii/

This is a beautiful summer spot, but on Saturday Dr. H and I will explore its winter appeal. Tarrytown is an adorable New Englandy town located right on the Hudson River. It's also apparently home to Blue Hill at Stone Barns, an operational farm and restaurant widely known for its 5-12 course "Farmer's Feasts"! Dr. H has to wear a jacket and tie and there are farm tours available! This spot is an escape from the norm, just a quick train ride from the city.

Stowe, VT (the snowy, cozy ski spot)

Via Pinterest

Snowboard, fireplace, woodsy decor filled dive bar. Done! Stowe is the quintessential east coast mountain town. It's perfect for a road trip and condo share with friends (bonus points if you score a place with a hot tub!) I think that if it's going to be cold and snowy, we might as well enjoy the beauty of wide open spaces and snow covered mountains. Another great option if you're in NYC (which means VT is a bit of a hike) is Hunter Mountain. Just a couple of hours north, it's another cozy town and beautiful mountain.

Coney Island, NY (the quirky, vintage getaway)

Via Pinterest

All you need is an afternoon and a metrocard. Coney Island is an amazing escape to a land of nostalgia and amusement. Though typically thought of as a more summer-time destination, the Coney Island Aquarium and Original Nathan's Hot Dog shop are open and the boardwalk is beautiful on a still, sunny, winter's day. Though you'll have to come back in the summer for the rides, just looking at the Wonder Wheel is enough to take your mind far away from home!