Costa Rica - a loving tribute

7 years years since I studied/lived in the beautiful country of Costa Rica and to this day, I am beyond thankful. I was fortunate enough to document some of the amazing locations that I still recall vividly from time to time.

To look towards the horizon and see as though the world ends is truly a breathtaking site.

The amazing family that I lived with truly captured my heart and taught me so much about their incredible country.

From the serene botanical gardens to the active volcanoes, every location was a fantastic adventure that captured our sense of being.

There are moments to be in awe, for me, this was a trip one that will remain for a lifetime.

For your next vacation, consider visiting Costa Rica to have your own adventure.

Start here: Visit Costa Rica

Best,

-Wally

Long Weekending - Naples, FL

Recently I found photos of when I visited Naples, FL, it was not hard to understand why people come to first vacation/live and later retire.

What a fantastic community, situated in the gulf with so much to offer. Picturesque sunsets and turquoise coastlines, I am humbled to have had the opportunity to visit several times in my youth.

Amazing people, fantastic food with a touch of old world living in Old Naples. The Naples Pier is a great location to watch breathtaking sunsets.

Definitely stop by Old Naples Pub for food/drinks as they have this amazing atrium lined with vines. Filled with sounds of birds by day and magical lighting in the evening hours.

Thank you to my amazing family friends that hosted us!

Best,

-Wally

My Herschel Supply Co. case: must have items

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Check out what I keep in mine below!

Since I received my Herschel Supply Co. settlement case as a gift, it was exactly what I was looking. Perfect size. It includes all of my daily must haves in one location and increases the efficiency of my day to day tasks.

more styles here: Settlement case

Science on the Rocks - Discovery Place

TONIGHT. I recommend that you check out Science on the Rocks at the Discovery Place. I had such a great time when I attended this event in April! Our theme was Geek Out, Freak Out. 

It is a fantastic way to experience the Discovery Place in a whole new way. Grab a group of friends, pick up a drink and explore all of the neat activities that are throughout the building. You will be surprised how much you learn along the way!! I would recommend buying your tickets in advance.

We built a crazy marble roller coaster and wooden towers!!

Details

  • 3rd Friday of each month
  • Different theme each month
  • $8 in advance / $10 at door
  •  5 - 9pm
  • cash bar/ages 21+


Enjoy!!
 
Best,
-Michael

U.S. National Whitewater Center - A Family Adventure

Recently, I had family traveling in from the west coast and we ended up at the perfect location for an adventure, the U.S. National Whitewater Center. We had an amazing time and they have a great mixture of activities for every age/skill. The events calendar is packed with unique events that are further showcased in such a phenomenal space.

The next time that the weather is sunny and you want to get outdoors, the U.S. Whitewater Center is a great option.

Best,

-Wally

Metrolina Tradeshow Expo - Vintage and Antiques show

I am so glad that I found the Metrolina Tradeshow Expo this weekend. It was such a great trip to with some awesome finds. Today is the last day, so check it out if your are in the Queen City. I was able to pick up an old Blueberry crate and some air plants for my apartment!

This event is moving from their location after this year; however, I will be returning where ever the new location is!! Mark it on your calendars.

This was definitely a great event.

Best,

-Wally

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Skyline Charlotte Art - Street Art

In advance of the construction of Tyron Place, the city in conjunction with various groups have put together a great public art space that is truly unique for the city. It is located on the corner of South Tryon and E. Stonewall. Check it out before it is taken down for construction, it has been a great community space thus far with several pop up venues/shows.



Book THAT trip and go - Philadelphia

 

While I am on the eve of confirming my next adventure (posted coming shortly), I just wanted to take a look back at my 48 hours in the city of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia. Where I was able to enjoy great company, perfect weather and the best that the city has to offer.

Remember, book THAT trip and explore, get lost, and make memories!!!!

This trip to Philadelphia all sparked from a quick conversation about catching up with some good friends and never having the pleasure to visit this great city. Of course, you learn about Philadephia and how it has changed the US historical landscape; however, it is quite refreshing to see how the city thrives today with a respectable nod to the past.

With only 48 hours, I would be remiss not to thank my dear friends for their kind hospitality/guidance of how to make the most of my quick weekend trip. 

First stop to grab some dinner/drinks was at Dock Street Brewing right in Cedar Park neighborhood.

With such a limited time to see the city, we had to start the next morning off quite early with grabbing coffee from Green Line Cafe while on our way to go watch Arsenal fútbol match downtown.

Then we were able to venture through the city, both old and new town to see the living history. Since the weather forecast was so favorable, we were able tour Independence Hall and the surrounding neighborhoods. I would suggest that you pick up your tour tickets early to reserve a time, then come back later in the day. I would highly recommend grabbing lunch at Jim's Steaks off of N. 62nd St, it was simply delicious.

Later in the day, I was fortunate enough to plan my trip at the same time that the Franklin Institute just opened their Vatican Splendors exhibit to showcase never before seen items from the Vatican. It was such a pleasure to view the exhibit and I would suggest that if you are visiting the city, plan this into your schedule (open now until Feb 15 2016). 

For dinner - GO TO GUSTO PIZZA off of S 22nd St.---- you will not be disappointed (suggestion - basil pesto pizza)

This was a great trip to Philadelphia. It is incredible to imagine how many important events and people have called Philadelphia home over the years. Remember to take those "one day" trips and you will not be disappointed with how much you personally grow

 

Best,

-Wally


Holiday in Brazil

     As my next holiday trip is quickly approaching, I would like to take this moment to look back at my time visiting Rio de Janeiro and Buzios. From the strategic chaos of the city to the serene beaches of magical town. It is easy to forget to cherish the moments of just truly living, outside of the digital world.

   During my entire stay Hotel Marina All Suites in Leblon, the staff was just as I imagined. Kind, knowledgable with a sense of true life.

 

The second portion of the trip brought me to Buzios (Trip Advisor -Certificate of Excellence 2014) and the picturesque beaches. The amazing staff knew great locations to visit and orchestrated an unforgettable surprise birthday celebration. During my stay in Brazil, the one word that stayed with me to this day was texture. From the art, to the buildings and the people, this word truly encompasses the wide range of life in Brazil.

 

Look for more news on my holiday trip this year and make sure that you keep in touch with where this adventure takes me. 

-Wally


I Lived - We only get one life

Hello. Wally here.

There are moments where we get caught up with so much noise that we never listen. This is the beginning of my journey of cherishing those moments and working toward my dream of becoming an international model.

I wanted to share these moments and the joy that I experience in the world. An eclectic mixture of my travels, fashion and the food that I encounter along the way.

Life's for Sharing....we only get one life.

-Wally