Cece In The City

Tag: Travel

  • LA Dreams: My Ultimate Adventure in the City of Stars

    Finally made it to Los Angeles! This city has been on my travel bucket list forever, and it did not disappoint. From iconic landmarks to bustling streets, my LA experience was a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and sunshine. Let’s dive into some of the unforgettable places I got to explore!

    Hollywood Walk of Fame: Kicking off with a classic! The Walk of Fame is every bit as vibrant and chaotic as I imagined—it’s a strip filled with stores, street performers, and nonstop hustle. Everyone’s out here grinding, selling, and entertaining, and I even spotted a few familiar names on those famous stars. The traffic, though? A true crawl, but hey, it gives you time to soak in the atmosphere!

    Santa Monica Pier: This spot was an absolute vibe. Between the beautiful beach views, live music, and that must-have funnel cake, I was in paradise. I even caught a street performer dancing to his own song about tacos—pure LA energy! As the sun set over the ocean, the entire place just glowed. It’s the kind of magic that makes you never want to leave.

    In-N-Out Burger: Of course, I had to make the pilgrimage! This West Coast legend definitely lives up to the hype, with those juicy burgers and the iconic simplicity of the menu. But full disclosure: I could’ve eaten two! I’ll be back for that double cheeseburger, for sure.

    Hollywood Sign: A total bucket-list moment! We didn’t get all the way up, but seeing it up close was surreal. There’s something about standing in front of that iconic sign, saying “Hollywood,” and realizing you’re actually there! And the city lights at night? Jaw-dropping.

    Long Beach: This spot is its own little paradise. We checked out the Yard House, saw the cruise ship, and wandered through a ton of cool shops. Live music, patio restaurants, and great bars make Long Beach a perfect chill-out spot—ideal for winding down after a day of sightseeing.

    These were my top five highlights, but honestly, LA is packed with so much to explore. The time zone difference kept me on my toes, but the entire experience was worth it. If you haven’t been to LA yet, you’re missing out on an adventure. It’s pricey, sure, but this city might just be the perfect fit for anyone chasing big dreams. Can’t wait to plan my return!

  • Cancun Thrills & New Friendships: An Unforgettable Adventure!

    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!

  • Cruising to Paradise: Grand Turk, Amber Cove, and Beyond!

    My second cruise adventure was all about sun, sea, and vibrant destinations! After trying Royal Caribbean for my first cruise, this time I decided to switch it up and go with Carnival, and let me tell you—Carnival lives up to its reputation as the “fun ship.” While Royal Caribbean is a bit more laid-back and family-friendly, Carnival is all about the party vibe.

    This trip took us to some stunning locations: Grand Turk, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic (Amber Cove), and the dreamy shores of Half Moon Cay. The water was crystal clear, the sun was blazing, and we even had camels strolling by as part of our tour—an unexpected yet unforgettable sight! Despite not fully vibing with everyone I traveled with, I decided to lean into the beauty around me and soak up every relaxing moment.

    As always, I travel somewhere new for my birthday, and cruises are a great way to see multiple places in one trip. But I have to admit, I’m also a big fan of resort stays! There’s just something about being on land that feels a bit more freeing after a few days at sea. Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty to do on a cruise! Between the game shows, casino nights, and friendly games with other travelers, the days flew by. And of course, I picked up some souvenirs because everything was so affordable thanks to the currency exchange.

    Each island had something special to offer—some even seemed like they were made just for tourists, with beach volleyball, snorkeling, and canoeing. The beaches were mesmerizing, and every day felt like another chapter of adventure.

    If you haven’t cruised before, you have to try it at least once! With new ships adding even more exciting features, there’s so much to look forward to. Can’t wait to see what the next wave of cruise ships will look like!

    Have you been on a cruise? Which line did you choose, and how was your experience?

    Follow me on Instagram for more travel stories at @cece.atl and @cece.atlbucketlist!

  • 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!

  • A Jamaican Getaway: Sun, Sumfest, and Unforgettable Vibes

    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!

  • Day 4: Beach Bliss and Culinary Delights in Panama

    Day 4: Beach Bliss and Culinary Delights in Panama

    Today was all about sun, sand, and savoring the best of Panama! We woke up bright and early, excited for a beach day. Our guide from Tour Alfaro picked us up for the drive to Colón, a port city rich in history. Colón was once the gateway to the famous Panama Railroad during the mid-19th century, making it a key spot for trade and travel. After arriving, we took a boat ride to Portobelo, a sleepy town with its own history of Spanish colonization and pirate invasions, adding some adventure vibes to the day.

    But the real gem was our destination: Isla Grande. As soon as we reached the island, the sight of that crystal-clear water was breathtaking! The relaxing 2.5-hour drive from Panama City was totally worth it. Beach days are always my favorite—they give you time to enjoy nature, soak in the beauty, and just be in the moment. We swam, lounged, and let the peaceful vibe of the island work its magic. Beach days are rejuvenating, but they also have a way of making you pleasantly exhausted!

    After washing up, we headed out for dinner at La Tapa del Coco, where we were in for a treat! We met the restaurant’s owner, Isaac Villaverde, who was as charming as the food was delicious. The restaurant had a welcoming vibe, and we even got to vote on the best wings they served. Definitely adding this spot to my list of must-visit places when I return to Panama!

    As the day wrapped up, I couldn’t help but feel so grateful for the amazing adventures we’ve had. Tomorrow’s our last day, so I’m going to soak in every moment tonight!

  • New Journey

    Hello, wonderful readers!

    First off, I just want to say thank you for following my blog and joining me on this journey. I absolutely love writing and sharing my experiences with all of you. And guess what? It’s my birthday month! 🎉 For me, every year begins in September, so I’m kicking things off with a new goal that’s been on my heart for a while: traveling to all 50 states within the next five years. Knowing me, it might happen even faster, but the adventure begins now!

    Since I’m currently in Georgia, I’ll be starting here. I’ve done a lot in the 10 years I’ve lived in this beautiful state, but there are still a few gems I want to check off my bucket list. If you’re a local or have visited before, I’d love your recommendations on must-see spots, restaurants, or hidden gems I should try out. I’m also planning to snap a picture at every welcome sign I pass and maybe even collect t-shirts and postcards from each state to remember the journey!

    Would you like to join me on this adventure? I’m so excited to explore new places, dive into different cultures, uncover hidden gems, and of course, taste all the amazing food along the way. Let’s discover the world together, one state at a time!

    Stay tuned, and if you have any Georgia suggestions, drop them below!

    Here’s to new adventures, Cece ✈️💫

  • Hello September

    Hello everyone, and welcome to September! As we edge closer to fall, I’m feeling all the excitement this month brings—especially since it’s my birthday month! For me, the year starts and ends in September, so it’s always a time of reflection, planning, and setting new goals. This year, I’m aiming to travel more and share even more of my experiences through my blog.

    Over the past few months, I’ve loved sharing with you all the books I’ve been reading, hidden gems I’ve discovered, and places worth visiting. Blogging has become such a joy, and I’m thrilled to have you all along for the ride.

    As we step into this new month, I want to wish everyone a happy Labor Day weekend! If you’re one of the lucky ones with the day off, I hope you enjoy every moment of it. Thank you for following me on this journey—I appreciate each one of you.

    Let’s make September amazing, and don’t forget to take some time for yourself. Self-love is the best kind of love!

  • Traveled to Clearwater FL

    Traveled to Clearwater FL

     

    Had a chance to go to Clearwater FL. The beach was nice, and it was a great day to go. The waves were hitting just right. I love to go to the beach and just relax. It gives me peace of mind. We also went to the escape room. Now that was fun, we ended up winning and getting out of it. We had to open a couple of doors and get a couple of clues. It was hard and it makes you think. I love going to the escape room. It’s better when you go as a group and have more brains lol.

    We also did the dolphin tour, and we were able to see two dolphins jumping out of the water and sight seeing that was cool. It also took us to another little, small part to do scuba diving if we wanted too. It was a good trip with great friends. We went to a couple spots to eat and just see what clearwater had to offer.

    I definitely would go back. It’s a nice spot for vacation and a lot to do. This was just a weekend getaway, so we didn’t have a lot of time to do everything we wanted to do. I loved the view and if you have never been check it out. The Beach is nice if you love going to the beach.

     

    Tell me about your experience If you ever have been. What were some of the things that you did while there?

    Also follow me @cece.atl and @cece.Atlbucketlist.

  • City of Love By Preston Turner

    Check out the article that Preston Turner did on the City of Love

    Go to https://cecenetworking.wordpress.com/2022/10/12/interview-with-luenell/