David and I were so fortunate to have another year where we were able to prioritize travel and experiences. It was a great mix of North Carolina and beyond and we are looking forward to our continued experiences in 2019. Here is a roundup of 2018: Our Year of Travel.
New Orleans
Last year, our Christmas gift to each other was a trip to visit New Orleans. We had an amazing stay at Le Pavillon Hotel in New Orleans! It was the perfect place for a winter getaway.
AC Hotel Raleigh North Hills
For my birthday, we did a staycation at the AC Hotel Raleigh in North Hills. We loved spending time at Level7 for happy hour. It is such a great location in Raleigh as well!
Hillsborough
My friend Katherine and I did a little day trip to Hillsborough and boy did it not disappoint. I am completely in love with La Place and their shrimp po’ boy!
Blowing Rock
David and I had a lovely spring break trip to Blowing Rock and an even lovelier stay at the New Public House and Hotel. I even conquered my fears and crossed the bridge at Grandfather Mountain.
the Siena Hotel
David and I took the boys on a staycation at the Siena Hotel. They truly roll out the red carpet to all their guests, including our anxiety ridden Gizmo. I cannot rave about the Siena and Il Palio enough!
Small Towns in North Carolina Worth the Road Trip
Looking for a good road trip in North Carolina? Check out these 14 small towns!
Tampa
I went to Tampa for a week for work, and I couldn’t have had better weather, or a better trip!
Bryson City
For our anniversary, David and I took a little road trip up to Bryson City for a stay at Lakeview at Fontana. David wanted to start a tradition of visiting the Nantahala National Forest, so this trip worked out perfectly. Also, the treetop soaking tub at Lakeview is so magical.
Ocracoke Island
David and I made a little getaway to visit my parents and friends at Ocracoke Island this summer. Looking for more to do on Ocracoke? Check out this post.
Topsail Island
David took me to Topsail for the first time ever this summer, so I made a day trip out of it with Glory and Angela. I am so thankful that we were able to make it before Hurricane Florence. Stay tuned for more of Eastern North Carolina and its rebuilding process in 2019.
North Carolina Zoo
David and I made a little day trip out of the North Carolina Zoo over Labor Day weekend. David loves a zoo and I went to try Billy D’s Fried Chicken at the zoo. I’d love to get back to Asheboro to eat at the Table in 2019.
New York City
For David’s anniversary, birthday, and Christmas gift this year, I bought us flights to New York City. It was a spectacular trip, and I am itching to plan a trip back for next year at the holiday season. We actually waited until pretty close to the time to book a hotel using Hotel Tonight, and I highly recommend doing that! We lucked out on a great deal at the Kimpton Ink48 and I cannot recommend it enough!
*Use code MEGRANT3 to receive $25 off your booking at Hotel Tonight. I’ll also receive $25 off.
Greensboro
My friend Lauren and I took a little girls’ trip to Greensboro for the night. David and I also made a day trip to Greensboro to do a little kayaking over at Lake Brandt with REI and their new outdoor experiences. I’m a big fan of Greensboro and the Proximity Hotel! You should definitely consider a trip there in 2019!
Girls’ Night in North Hills
After a busy season, I had a much needed girls’ night at the AC Hotel in North Hills with Angela, Courtney, and Glory. Check out all our stops and our experience here.
Winston-Salem
After an amazing stay in Winston-Salem in 2017, Angela, Glory, and I headed back to experience Winston-Salem during the holidays. I cannot rave about the city enough! It’s another spot you should definitely plan a trip to in 2019!
Asheville
My parents, David, and I headed up to Asheville to experience it decorated at Christmas. I waited too long to book tickets to the Biltmore, but the city was gorgeous! I highly recommend a stay at the Graham House Air BnB. See more details here.
Plus, check out some of our favorite travel tips:
How to Plan a Staycation | How to Travel with Dogs | Warm Weather Packing Essentials
Packing for New York City | The Ultimate Road Trip Songs
I hope you had an amazing holiday! I am so excited to share recaps of the 2018 year and my vision for 2019 in the coming weeks!
Shop the 2018: Our Year of Travel Post
