As January comes to an end, I can’t help but feel like time moved at its own pace—slow, steady, and full of lessons. It reminded me to appreciate the little things, embrace growth, and step forward with intention.
Now, we welcome February—a month rich in history, love, and fresh possibilities. It’s Black History Month, a time to honor the past and celebrate the present. It’s also the season of love, not just romantic, but self-love, friendship, and new connections. Most of all, February feels like a call to adventure—a push to step outside of comfort zones and embrace new experiences.
For me, that means continuing my journey of learning Spanish, crossing things off my bucket list, and sharing each moment along the way.
What’s on your February list? Let’s make it a month of bold moves, beautiful memories, and boundless opportunities!
A couple of years ago, I packed my bags and headed to Cancun with a few friends, and what an adventure it turned out to be! Cancun was full of unforgettable firsts, from conquering my fear on a zip line high above the treetops to diving into a chilly underground cave pool. That initial zip line ride was both terrifying and exhilarating—soaring over the trees and feeling the rush as we zipped across the jungle was an absolute thrill.
Then came the ATVs! We roared down the trails, kicking up mud, and I’m so glad I wasn’t last in line because my ATV ran out of gas halfway through! It added a funny twist to an already wild ride.
And let’s talk about the beach—clear, sparkling turquoise water and soft sand that just invites you to relax. Cancun’s beaches are truly next-level, with that crystal-clear, picture-perfect water that you can see straight through. We also hit up the club at our resort, where the nightlife was buzzing, and we ended up meeting some fantastic new friends from Canada. We still keep in touch, thanks to the magic of Facebook!
Cancun was everything I could’ve asked for in a vacation and more. It was a place I’ll never forget, and while it’s checked off my bucket list, I’d love to explore more of Mexico next time. Here’s to more adventures and new friends along the way!
This past Saturday, I crossed something off my Atlanta bucket list: my first Atlanta United game! I’ve always enjoyed soccer — mostly from my time as a proud soccer mom cheering on my daughters from the sidelines — but watching it live? That’s a whole new thrill.
Since I won free tickets to the game, I invited my cousin along for the adventure to go to the Atlanta United’s playoff game against Miami at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Walking into the stadium, surrounded by fans decked out in red, black, and gold, I felt that electric energy that only live sports can deliver. The whole place was buzzing with excitement and, from the very start, you could tell everyone was there for one thing: to see our team win.
The match was intense from kickoff. It was neck-and-neck at 1-1 for what felt like ages. With each pass, every shot, and every near-miss, the crowd’s anticipation grew. Then, just when we thought it might stay tied, Atlanta scored the winning goal! The stadium roared, and it was amazing to be right there, in the heart of it all, watching fans jump out of their seats and high-five strangers. What a way to celebrate our first game — ATL United winning it in the final stretch!
After that experience, I can safely say I’m hooked. I’m ready to dive deeper into soccer, learn more about the team, and catch more games this season. Here are some snapshots of the night; I’m so glad I could experience it and cross this off my Atlanta list. Go ATL!
In 2015, I took my first trip to Jamaica, and let me tell you—it was everything! I was traveling with two of my aunts and my brother, and we headed to the adults-only paradise known as Secrets Wild Orchid. We were there for seven days of sun, relaxation, and of course, Sumfest!
For those who don’t know, Sumfest is the reggae festival, featuring legendary artists and performers. We were lucky enough to meet Beenie Man, Jesse Royal, and even Common and his band. Between the music and the warm, welcoming energy, Jamaica felt like a dream come true.
Our resort? Absolute heaven! With over seven restaurants, a nightclub, and easy access to neighboring resorts, there was always something to do. But honestly, lounging by the pool or the beach with a Piña Colada in hand was my happy place. I love the water, so you know I was soaking up every moment.
We did get out and explore too! We danced at Margaritaville, watched cliff divers at Rick’s Café, and even checked out Bob Marley Park. My aunt’s friends gave us a local tour, showing us the many sides of Jamaica—from the high life to the everyday neighborhoods. It was eye-opening and beautiful.
The whole trip was a perfect balance of family time and solo relaxation, with the bonus of great food, endless drinks, and no kids in sight (sorry, not sorry!). If you’ve never been to Jamaica, go! The exchange rate makes everything so affordable, and trust me, it’s worth every penny. Resorts like this give you everything in one package—meals, drinks, entertainment—it’s the ultimate getaway.
Now I’m hooked on travel and can’t wait for my next adventure! Have you been to Jamaica? What did you do? I’d love to hear your stories!
Follow me for more fun travels at @Cece.atlbucketlist and @cece.atl!
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!
For the month of July, I’m diving into the vibrant food scene of Atlanta and highlighting some of the best restaurants and food spots I’ve experienced. On Day 3, I got to check out Clutch, and let me tell you, this spot is a gem!
Clutch has fantastic vibes and live entertainment that adds to the overall experience. I indulged in their shrimp and grits, which were absolutely delicious. I also had a bite of my friend’s chicken, and it was equally impressive. The inside is stylish and inviting, and the customer service was top-notch.
If you haven’t been to Clutch yet, I highly recommend it for a great meal and a fun time. It’s definitely a place I’ll be visiting again!
For the month of June, I’ll be highlighting exciting things to do in Atlanta, sharing my Atlanta bucket list experiences! Day 30 took me to the Fernbank Science Center. It’s important to note that the Fernbank Museum and the Fernbank Science Center are two different places, each with its own unique offerings.
At the Fernbank Science Center, I was captivated by the planetarium show—an absolute must-see! The immersive experience was both educational and mesmerizing. There is the Live Honey Bees—they freaked me out a bit! Despite that, learning about history and science was thoroughly enjoyable.
If you haven’t checked out the Fernbank Science Center yet, add it to your list. It’s a fantastic spot for both kids and adults to explore and learn. The planetarium show alone makes the trip worthwhile!
Get ready for an exhilarating June as I highlight the best activities in Atlanta! I’ve crafted an Atlanta bucket list packed with incredible experiences I’ve enjoyed and can’t wait to share. Here’s a highlight from my adventure:
Day 28: Nighttime Magic on the SkyView Ferris Wheel
Recently, I took a spin on the SkyView Ferris Wheel, and it was an unforgettable experience! I went at night, and the view from the top was absolutely breathtaking, with the city of Atlanta glowing beneath us. It’s the perfect spot to relax and chat, whether you’re with a friend, your partner, or family. The nighttime ambiance adds a special touch, making everything sparkle. If you haven’t experienced SkyView at night, it’s a must. Great vibes and stunning views await!
Get ready for an exhilarating June as I highlight the best activities in Atlanta! I’ve created an Atlanta bucket list packed with incredible experiences I’ve enjoyed and can’t wait to share. Here’s a highlight from my adventure:
Day 27: Discover the BeltLine Magic
I recently explored the Atlanta BeltLine, and wow, what an experience! This vibrant hub is a melting pot of diverse cultures, mouth-watering restaurants, and artistic expressions. It’s a haven for skaters, dog lovers, and anyone who appreciates a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re walking, biking, or scooting, the BeltLine offers a perfect backdrop for any activity. I loved soaking in the eclectic scene, and if you haven’t been, you absolutely must check it out. It’s a vibe you won’t want to miss!
Get ready for an exhilarating June as I spotlight the best activities in Atlanta! I’ve crafted an Atlanta bucket list brimming with fantastic experiences I’ve enjoyed and can’t wait to share. Here’s a highlight from my adventure:
Day 26: Sip and Savor at the World of Coca-Cola
I recently ventured to the World of Coca-Cola, and it was a fizzy, fun-filled experience! This isn’t just a museum; it’s an immersive journey through the history of one of the world’s most iconic brands. You’ll get to taste different Coke flavors from around the globe, each sip offering a unique and exciting twist. If you’re in Atlanta, this is a must-visit. Dive into the bubbly world of Coca-Cola and uncover the fascinating story behind the brand!
