Cece In The City

Tag: adventures await

  • A Weekend of Nature, Food & New Discoveries

    This past weekend was one for the books. From breathtaking trails to mouthwatering tacos, I had the chance to tap into the beauty of Atlanta and all it has to offer. If you’re anything like me — someone who loves discovering hidden gems and creating memories one step at a time — you’ll want to add these spots to your must-visit list.

    🌳 Lullwater Park: A Hidden Oasis in the City

    I finally made my way to Lullwater Park in Atlanta — and let me just say, wow. This place is a dream if you love nature, peaceful vibes, and a little bit of adventure. The park sits on the Emory University campus and is filled with history, beauty, and even a few surprises.

    We crossed a suspension bridge (yes, it shakes a little — kinda scary, kinda thrilling 😅), explored winding trails, and came across a small waterfall that was picture-perfect. But the real kicker? A historic stone tower covered in graffiti that gave the whole area an urban-rustic charm. Fun fact: they were filming something out there while we were walking around, so you know it’s a cinematic spot!

    All around us were people relaxing in trees, chatting in the grass, having picnics, fishing, and even playing a game of dodgeball. I’d never been before, but I’ll definitely be back.

    Honestly, I think I’m turning into a full-on nature girl — and I’m not mad about it. These peaceful moments outside have been everything lately. I’m even thinking about adding Lullwater to our Women Stand Strong group’s next meetup. It’s the perfect place for laughter, reflection, and a walk with good friends.

    🌮 Taco Love at Frontera | Stone Mountain

    The other highlight of my weekend? Finally trying out the newly remodeled Frontera Mex-Mex Grill in Stone Mountain! I’d seen them working on it for a while, and I was excited to see what they did with the place.

    Let me just say, the inside is beautiful — clean, stylish, and welcoming. From the moment I walked in, the customer service was on point. And the food? 🔥 I ordered the steak taco with rice, and it did not disappoint. Flavorful, fresh, and just what I needed.

    It was my first time there, but definitely not my last. I love discovering new restaurants and getting out to support local spots. There’s so much to explore in this city — and I’m here for all of it.

    🌆 What a Weekend

    From scenic bridges and waterfalls to steak tacos and sunset drives — this weekend was a vibe. I’m grateful for these little adventures that make life feel full and rich. And you know me… I’m always on the move, so stay tuned to see what’s next!

    Until then — keep exploring, keep smiling, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

    💫
    — Cece in the City

  • Sailing into a New Adventure: My First Cruise Experience

    In 2014, I decided to shake things up for my birthday and try something different—my very first cruise! Royal Caribbean to the Bahamas, with two of my friends by my side. It was an unforgettable trip, full of sun, sea, and so much fun!

    The Bahamas were absolutely stunning—the water was crystal clear, and even though the heat was intense, the relaxation was on another level. We explored museums, shopped around, and of course, picked up souvenirs for the family. The currency was different, so that added a little extra adventure to our shopping spree!

    One of the best parts? Reuniting with a friend I hadn’t seen since 9th grade. It was amazing catching up, vibing together, and sharing the experience. The cruise ship itself was like a floating party! There was always something happening—great food, dancing, and plenty of opportunities to meet new people. We hit a few different stops along the way, but the simple joy of being out on the ocean, soaking up the sun, was unforgettable.

    And let’s talk about Jet Skiing! My first time, and wow—what a thrill! It was equal parts fun and terrifying, especially when hitting those waves. I held on for dear life, and by the end of it, I was sore but laughing. Totally worth it!

    We ported from Miami, so we had some time to explore the city and relax on the beach. Miami has a vibe all its own, and I can’t wait to go back and spend more time there. This trip made me promise myself that from then on, every birthday would be spent traveling somewhere new. Whether it’s a different state or a whole new country, the world is too big to stay in one place!

    What about you? Tell me about your first cruise! Which cruise line did you sail with, and where did you go?

    Follow me for more travel adventures at @Cece.atlbucketlist and @cece.atl!

  • History, Heights, and Heart-Pounding Adventures: Day 2 in Panama City

    Day 2: History and Adventure in Panama City

    We started Day 2 in Panama with a delightful breakfast at the Waldorf Astoria, fueling up for a day packed with history and adventure.

    Our first stop was the Museo de Panamá Viejo, located in the ruins of Panamá Viejo—the original city founded in 1519. As the first European settlement along the Pacific, the area holds great historical significance. Strolling through the ruins, we learned how this once-thriving city was destroyed by the infamous pirate Henry Morgan in 1671. The museum itself offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s colonial past, with artifacts and exhibits that bring its rich history to life.

    Next, we visited the Panama Canal, an absolute must-see. The canal, completed in 1914, transformed global shipping routes and is often referred to as one of the modern world’s greatest engineering feats. Watching the massive ships pass through the locks was mesmerizing, and learning about how this canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans was even more impressive.

    For an adrenaline rush, we headed to Poin, where we zip-lined from building to building. The experience was exhilarating, especially with panoramic views of the city below. We also took on “The Edge,” a daring challenge that had us suspended high above the ground—it was heart-pounding fun!

    We wrapped up the day back at the Waldorf Astoria for dinner, enjoying a relaxing meal after such an action-packed afternoon. To cap off the evening, Panama treated us to a peaceful rainstorm, adding a cozy touch as we settled in for the night.

  • Birthday Getaway to Panama: Exploring History, Culture, and Adventure

    Hello, fellow adventurers!
    As many of you know, I’m on an exciting quest to explore all 50 states, with a sprinkle of international travel, and I couldn’t wait to share my Panama adventure with you!

    My brother and I have birthdays super close to each other, so we decided to celebrate with a birthday getaway to Panama. It was a whirlwind trip from Thursday to Monday, and trust me—it was everything we needed and more!

    Day 1: The Arrival
    The flight from Atlanta to Panama was smooth and filled with excitement! We stayed at the Waldorf Astoria, and let me tell you, this place was luxurious. Fun fact: The Waldorf Astoria brand dates back to 1893, named after the Waldorf and Astoria hotels in New York, both pioneers of luxury hospitality. The Panama location didn’t disappoint—it had a gym, bar, pool, and spa, so there were plenty of ways to relax and rejuvenate.

    First Stop: Food!
    After settling in, we were ready to explore and eat! We hit up a local seafood joint where I ordered shrimp tacos—though I should’ve gone with the fish (hindsight is 20/20). The tacos weren’t the best, but the people and vibe made up for it.

    Exploring Casco Viejo
    Next, we ventured into Casco Viejo, Panama’s historic district. Casco Viejo was founded in 1673, after the original Panama City was destroyed by pirate Henry Morgan. Walking its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, with colonial buildings, charming plazas, and beautiful churches. This district is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s rich with the essence of old Panama, blending history and modern life beautifully.

    The Plaza de la Catedral
    We strolled through Plaza de la Catedral, home to the stunning Catedral Metropolitana, which dates back to the 1700s. The cathedral’s baroque facade and the grand bell towers make it a must-see landmark. This plaza has been the heart of the city’s social and religious life for centuries, a gathering place for the community, surrounded by charming restaurants and vibrant history. The Cathedral itself stands as a symbol of Panama’s resilience, having been rebuilt multiple times over the centuries due to fires and invasions.  We grabbed some sherbet ice cream at Mint Cream (so refreshing in the heat), then strolled around, taking in the beauty of the church at Plaza de la Catedral.  

    A Snapshot of Panama’s Meaning
    Ever wondered what “Panama” means? The name “Panama” is believed to come from an indigenous word meaning “abundance of fish,” and after visiting, I can totally see why—it’s a paradise for seafood lovers and explorers alike. Panama is also known for its rich history as a vital crossroads of trade due to the Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

    Iconic Panama Sign & Nightlife
    Of course, no trip to Panama would be complete without a photo at the iconic Panama sign. It sits in the vibrant Cinta Costera, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and waterfront. People were out skating, biking, and enjoying the fresh air—it felt like the heart of the city was alive.

    After a long day of walking and taking in the sights, we wrapped it up with wings while checking out the nightlife. Panama City doesn’t slow down, and neither did we.

    But this is just day one! Stay tuned for Day 2, where the adventures get even better!