Skylar M. Beck

Getaway House Review

Published on April 21, 2021August 6, 2023 by Skylar M. BeckLeave a comment

I recently had the opportunity to stay in one of Getaway Houses for a few days! These tiny cabins are a dream hidden in a secluded area with plenty of wildlife to feel like you’re truly far away from home. I stayed at the Ohio location and it was perfectly hidden off the road and deep behind several pine trees. The Getaway house is enhanced camping which feels like a retreat and provided me with a chance to unplug from the world.

I was amazed with how much could fit in such a tiny space. The design of the getaway houses was impressive as there was plenty of storage, space, while at the same time extremely simplistic. The interior of the cabin creates a peaceful atmosphere that instantly makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. The Getaway provides a lot of little things to make packing a lot easier! There’s no need to bring basic cooking materials (salt, pepper, olive oil, aluminum foil) and they even provide a no-stick frying pan! The Getaway also provides, a mixing bowl, plates, bowls, mugs, cups, and all utensils. I’ve listed below a few things I’ll remember for my next trip. I can’t wait to visit again, I cannot recommend the Getaway House enough! Here is a reference link to receive $25 your first stay with the Getaway!

Things to keep in mind:

Plan out your meals to bring materials and snacks needed for your stay. The refrigerator in the cabin is small!
There is not an oven in the cabin, however, there is an outdoor grill available for cooking.
The tap water in the cabin is safe to drink so there’s no need to bring extra water along.
There is no wifi available, it truly is a screen free retreat if you want it to be! If you want to bring movies, be sure to have them downloaded beforehand.
If you’re a coffee lover, bring your own coffee and maker. I brought my french press and I was thankful to have it in the mornings! The cabin provides creamer and sugar. There is also coffee available for purchase if you forget!
If you want wine glasses be sure to bring your own.
We noticed the hot water didn’t last long so I suggest taking showers before washing dishes in the morning and at night.
There’s a cell phone ‘lock box” provided in the cabin, I would highly recommend using it!
The service was amazing while we stayed! If you need any extra amenities throughout your stay you can simply text the staff to drop more off.

Autumn in Ohio: Photo Diary

Published on November 2, 2020November 2, 2020 by Skylar M. Beck1 Comment

Ohio is where I grew up and the place I’ll always call home. If Ohio should be known for anything, it should be the way it looks in the fall. The leaves are vibrant and beautiful, the weather is cool enough for a sweater and there’s a pumpkin patch in every city. There are so many things about Ohio in the fall that I love and I thought I’d share.

Some of my favorite fall spots:

Rocky River Reservation
The Holden Arboretum
Ledges Overlook
Patterson’s Fruit Farm
Szalay’s Farm & Market
Sandrun Metro Park

Instagram Guide to Italy

Published on October 19, 2020January 8, 2025 by Skylar M. BeckLeave a comment

Italy is one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever visited and had the privilege to live for an extended period of time. I’ve been to several cities and small towns within Italy and complied a list of my favorite places that are certainly instagram worthy! I’ve listed my favorite cities throughout Italy that I’ve traveled to with my favorite spots for instagram photos!

Florence

Florence will always have a special place in my heart, it was my home for a year and I made so many special memories there. Florence is definitely a photogenic city with several hidden gems and picture perfect views.

My favorite locations:

Santa Maria del Fiore, Duomo
Pizzale Michaelanglo
Ponte Vecchio
View on art rooftop
Boboli Gardens
Gucci Garden museum

Rome

My favorite locations:

The Trevi Fountain
Colosseum
Travestre neighborhood
Palatine Hill
Roman Forum

Cinque Terre

My favorite locations:

Manarola, view from Nessun Dorma
Vernazza, view from the hiking path to Monterroso
Monterroso beach
Corniglia, hike 365 steps to top of the hill for a stunning view
Riomaggiore, view from the pier

Venice

My favorite spots:

View from canals
Bridge of sighs
Saint Mark’s Basilica
View from Grand Canal
View from a gondola ride

Milan

My favorite locations:

Milan Cathedral, both outside and view from the top
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Obica rooftop
Aperol bar rooftop

Modena

My favorite spots:

Take a cheese and wine tour
Walk around the city square
Take a balsamic vinegar tour

Procida

My favorite spots:

Hike to the top of the hill for the view of the island
Walk along the pier near the rainbow colored homes

Instagram Guide: Paris, France

Published on October 17, 2020January 8, 2025 by Skylar M. Beck1 Comment

Paris, France without a doubt is the most instagramable city! There are so many stunning sites throughout the city that make the prettiest pictures. With it’s chic streets, adorable bakeries, and overall romantic feeling, Paris is the perfect place to collect some pictures for your instagram feed.

Eiffel Tower

The first image that pops into my head when I daydream about Paris is the Eiffel Tower! To me the prettiest pictures of the Eiffel Tower can be captured either early in the morning to beat the crowds, or in the evening while enjoying a picnic underneath the Eiffel.

La Maison Rose

Located in the sweet neighborhood of Montmare, La Maison Rose is a popular spot for photos because of it’s sweet exterior. I suggest actually eating here too once you collect some photos! The food is delicious and sitting outside watching other tourists walk by, is a perfect way to experience a Parisian afternoon.

Arc De Triomph

The top of the Arc has to be my favorite view of Paris. I love that the Eiffel Tower and Cahmps-Élysées are in perfect site. The walk up to the top is well worth it for this view to capture a perfect photo and take in Paris from above.

The Louvre

The Louvre is one of the most popular museums in the world is a must see while in Paris. The whole perimeter of the Louvre is worth spending an entire day visiting. After touring the inside of the museum, spend time taking some photos of the outside, the glass triangles are picture perfect.

Trocadero

One of the best views of the Eiffel Tower in Paris can be seen from Trocadero. I enjoyed sitting along the wall here and people watching. There’s also several restaurants along the Trocadero circle where you can enjoy a glass of rose and watch the Eiffel tower.

Musée de l’Orangerie

Before visiting Paris, I had always dreamed of seeing Monet’s famous waterlilies. I could have spent all afternoon walking through the rooms filled with Monet’s work. Next time I visit Paris I hope to go to Monet’s garden

Places I Cannot Wait to Travel to Again

Published on October 15, 2020December 1, 2020 by Skylar M. BeckLeave a comment

There have been some places I’ve traveled to and in the moment I knew I would come back someday. There will always be those places that inspire so much inside me I already start planning my next visit. During this time especially, I’ve had a chance to think about all of the places I’ve traveled to and which ones I cannot wait to travel to again once it’s safe to do so.

Iceland

Iceland is one of my favorite countries in the world! I was struck by the scenery and the overall atmosphere of the country. When I have the chance to go back I would love to stay for a longer trip and drive around the country to experience more.

Italy

Italy will always hold a special place in my heart. I hope Italy will always be a country I can return to and feel at home. Florence in particular is a city I cannot wait to visit again. There are so many little things I miss about living in Italy. The convenience of walking to the city square, the loud church bells every afternoon, the line of people sipping their espresso before work, and the overall sense of history and art that spread throughout the city.

France

I’ve had the opportunity to visit France a couple times and each time I go, I know I’ll be back. Paris in particular was a special city to visit. Everything about Paris feels unique and like I’m in a movie. I cannot wait to experience the food, the Eiffel Tower, and the museums again.

Scotland

Scotland charmed me so much with it’s architecture and cozy atmosphere. I only had the chance to briefly visit Edinburgh and I would love to visit again and experience more of the country side!

Belgium

I’ll be honest, one of the reasons I wanted to visit Belgium in the first place was for the waffles and fries. But there was so much more to Belgium than I expected! I was only able to see Brussels but I look forward to traveling there again to visit more beautiful cities throughout the country.

New Zealand

New Zealand was one of the most incredible countries I’ve ever traveled to. I was there about three years ago and I still reflect on all the memories I made there and daydream about when I can go back. New Zealand offered such a peaceful trip that almost felt like a retreat.

Switzerland

Switzerland is a stunning country with so much to see! I’ve been able to travel there once in the summertime and once in the winter and I’ve loved the country equally as much both visits. When I visit again I would love to experience more of the Swiss alps and the stunning scenery the country offers.

Ireland

Ireland will always be a special country for me. I’ve visited twice and both times I had to go back to the Cliff of Moher. I felt so much peace and so grounded watching the waves hit the cliffside. When I return to Ireland I would love to experience more of the countryside and take drives around the beautiful country.

How to Travel During the Pandemic

Published on May 28, 2020May 28, 2020 by Skylar M. Beck2 Comments

With everything going on in the world due to coronavirus, I thought I would share ways I’ve been “traveling” without leaving my home. This is a scary and unusual time all of us are facing but I believe brighter days are ahead! Being stuck at home may feel a bit suffocating to my fellow travelers out there, especially when the weather warms up and the travel bug really starts bitting… BUT being stuck at home prevents further cases and deaths which is a much better alternative. Thankfully, being stuck at home means there’s internet. The internet opens all kinds of doors for ways to travel while at home.

Virtual Tours

There are many virtual tours available which provide an excellent way to travel from home. Some of a favorites include: The Van Gogh Museum , The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Louvre, The British Museum, and The Anne Frank House. These virtual tours are such a unique way to experience rich history, culture, and art. I’ve been to all of these museums in person and I’m thrilled I can tour them without a crowd and whenever I want from home.

Make a Travel Bucket List

Personally, I love making travel bucket lists. There’s something so satisfying about making a list of all your dream destinations and being able to cross one off the list once you finally visit. Making a travel bucket list during the pandemic also gives you something to look forward to and even start planning! A dedicated blog post of my 2021 travel bucket list is coming soon.

Cook an International Dish

Have a night dedicated to a favorite meal from country or city you’ve visited. I love recreating meals I used to find while living in Italy. This could be a fun way to virtually have a meal with friends and family through video chat!

Organize Travel Photos

Organizing my travel photos is something I love to do in my free time. Going through travel pictures, is a fun way to reminisce on travel adventures. Another idea is to print out pictures to put in a book or create a travel journal!

Watch a Movie with a Travel Theme

Have a travel themed night, maybe along with an international dish and dive into a movie inspired by travel. Some of my favorite travel inspired movies are: Under the Tucsan Sun, Eat, Pray, Love, Midnight in Paris, Wild, and Julie and Julia.

Go for a Walk or Hike

Go for a walk or hike near home! I’ve been finding new places on the weekends to explore and enjoy the fresh air. This is a perfect time to explore where you live in a new way.

Visit Cities Virtually

This is my favorite experience that is available! From the comfort of your home you can experience the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night, Times Square without a crowd, and Rome’s historic Colosseum! This is a unique way to travel and experience different major cities around the world.

30 Things to do in Quarantine

Published on April 1, 2020April 1, 2020 by Skylar M. BeckLeave a comment

Hi everybody! Long time no post. I think we can all agree 2020 has been one of the strangest years. The only comforting part about this whole situation is that everyone is going through the same thing. We are all trying our best to social distance, stay at home, and keep up with our health during this uncertainty. Although my blog is primarily a travel blog, during this time I thought it would be fun to share things to do and ways to see the positive side of this temporary situation!

Here’s 30 things to do in quarantine:

Have facetime dates with friends and family. My family has been using zoom, the video quality is amazing and you can zoom up to 100 people!
Create and listen to a mood boosting playlist. Music has really been my saving grace during this. Here’s the playlist I made on spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7JeJosg5uRd733Wrowf1cX?si=wtLMRc2ERqS0Kp2U1CTF1Q
Spend time outside! One of the positive outcomes of this pandemic is everyone seems to be spending more time outdoors. Fresh air can do wonders when you’re stuck inside all day.
Take rides! Another solution I’ve been taking advantage of to change up my scenery.
Journal. This is a once in a lifetime event that could be interesting to read back on years from now.
Clean. Clean. Clean. This is the time to finally declutter that spot in your closet or a box of random stuff that’s collected over time, we all have something. Now’s the time to tackle it!
Catch up on some new shows. Lately I’ve been enjoying The Tiger King, The Good Place, and I hope to watch The Morning Show next.
Try out some new recipes. I’ve been baking more than usual and it’s been fun having new treats in the house.
Do a home workout. Just because the gyms are closed doesn’t mean you can’t get a nice workout in at home. I’ve been taking advantage of home workouts on Youtube. I recently finished Heather Robertson’s 12 week workout challenge, it was amazing!
Go through clothes and shoes and donate! Now more than ever people are in need of clothes and shoes.
Boost immune system. I’ve been making ginger shots and taking one a day to help my immune system. I will share the recipe on instagram soon!
Read. Now’s the time to start a new book. If you’d rather listen to a book, right now Audible is offering any book for free, worth taking advantage of!
Make a list of things you can’t wait to do once the stay at home orders aren’t in place.
Support local businesses. Local places need the most support right now and most offer curbside, delivery, or take out options. Also be sure to tip!
Have a game night. Break out the board and card games.
Swap your winter and summer clothes out. By the time this is over, the warm weather will be here.
Start a blog or another creative outlet!
Take naps. This pandemic is a reset for the world and all of us experiencing it. Take the time to rest.
Practice self care. Paint your nails, give yourself a facial, deep condition your hair, go makeup free for a week.
Keep a routine. This is probably the hardest thing to keep doing when all you can do is stay inside. But, waking up and going to bed at similar time is good to continue to feel some normalcy.
Pick a home project to do. Paint a room, organize the cabinets, clean out the basement or garage.
Watch a motivational video. Despite all the negativity circling the internet during this pandemic, there are positive things to watch as well. This will help you feel good and stay optimist about the situation.
Go through old pictures. I have so many pictures to organize and go through. It’s also fun to look back on old photos.
Have a movie binge night. Watch all eight Harry Potters!
Learn a new language.
Take creative indoor photos. Document what you’re doing in quarantine through photos.
Cook a fancy meal. A friend of mine made a thanksgiving spread just because!
Build a fort out of blankets and pillows.
Have a picnic in your backyard.
Go technology or social media free for a few days or a week.

Favorite Travel Photos 2019

Published on December 16, 2019December 14, 2019 by Skylar M. BeckLeave a comment

It’s hard to believe 2019 is quickly coming to an end. As I reflect on the past year, I have so many wonderful travel moments to look back on. In 2019 I traveled to ten countries and countless cities in between. 2019 has been one of my favorite travel years yet. This year was special for several reasons, I was able to travel to places that have been at the top of my bucket list. I swam in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, paraglided over the Swiss Alps, had a picnic underneath the Eiffel Tower, tasted an authentic Belgium waffle and took a Harry Potter walking tour in Edinburgh, Scotland. Of course every place I went this year, my camera was in hand. Being able to reminisce through the photos I collect is something very special to me. So to wrap up 2019, I’m sharing my favorite travel photos from this past year.

Happy New Year everyone!

Coffee Guide: Akron & Canton, Ohio

Published on November 15, 2019 by Skylar M. BeckLeave a comment

Out of all the wonderful places I’ve traveled to, Ohio will always be special. It’s home. I want to start an ‘Ohio Travel Series’ on my blog and to begin, I’m writing about the best places to get a cup of coffee in my hometown. North East Ohio may not be known for too much, but we do have some great coffee shops worth trying while visiting the area.

Here’s a round up of my favorite spaces, in alphabetical order, for where to get the best coffee in the Akron and Canton area!

Akron Coffee Roasters. Probably my favorite coffee shop in Akron. ACR now has two locations, one in downtown Akron and one in Cuyahoga Falls. I love stopping in for an americano and a slice of their best kept secret: avocado toast!

Angel Falls Coffee Company. A sweet authentic coffee shop located in highland square, Akron. There’s a variety of drinks served here as well as delicious foods, especially their homemade quiches!

Artisan Coffee. Home to some of the best pastries that pair well with a espresso drink. This is also a great stop for meetings or getting some work done, there’s plenty of space inside.

Asterisk Coffee Bar. This is Akron Coffee Roaster’s newest coffee shop, located close by to the original in Cuyahoga Falls. This location is nice because it’s spacious and now serves cocktails and small bites on the weekends!

Heartwood Coffee Roasters. A cozy coffee shop, with a couple locations but my favorite is located in Hudson, just a little north of Akron. Heartwood coffee is known for their irresistible treats and fun seasonal drinks.

The Human Bean. A franchise popular along the West coast has blessed Ohio with it’s amazing coffee! I love the human bean because it’s a drive up coffee place! There’s two drive up sides along the building and multiple cars can drive up and order. Makes it easy to grab a cup of coffee while running errands. The best americano in Canton!

Muggswigz Coffee & Tea Co. A long time Canton favorite located downtown. Muggswigz is a great spot to meet up with friends for coffee and listen to some live music on the weekend nights.

Nervous Dog Coffee Bar. Another great coffee shop with a cozy interior perfect for catching up on work or diving into a book. The Nervous Dog now has a few locations around Akron, my favorite is the original, located on Market street. For any ‘Friends’ fans, the original location resembles what a modern day “Central Perk” would be.

Walkie Talkie Espresso & Coffee. A new coffee shop located in downtown Canton. The interior is welcoming and bright, a great spot to take a break with a cup of joe. I recommend picking up some coffee beans to go here, so great to have at home!