JULY 2025

Adventures With Carli

A monthly round of tips, travels, adventures and what's next

Hello adventurers!

I can't believe we're already halfway through summer 😩

Since this is truly the best weather in Seattle (and the reason we deal with all the gloom) I try to stick around the PNW as much as possible. July is also the time of year for my favorite non-sanctioned event of the year (see video below).

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I even got talked into buying a paddleboard, which after 2 decades in the city makes me feel like a real Seattleite. One of my friends let me know that there is a paddleboard that not only has an attachable seat, it also has kayak style paddles for those that haven't upgraded to standing yet.

The perfect lazy person's paddleboard

Where in the world is Carli San Diego?

For 4th of July, my friend Katie and I had our second annual "leave the country" celebration. Last year we went to Guatemala, and this year we were in Cabo. Both trips thanks to my Delta Companion ticket through my favorite Delta Amex card.

It had been over 10 years since I was last in Cabo and most people are going to enjoy pool time at a resort or party (or both).

Here are a few highlights from my trip:

• A $51 90 min massage - Resort spas are overpriced! There are beachside massage locations all over Cabo (and other popular tourist towns in Mexico). I booked mine at The Sand Bar.
  • Be warned: this is a shared space so its not a private room which is kind of weird at first. But once you're face down with the waves crashing nearby you won't care.
• Bars - Cabo has tons of bars and clubs to dance the night away and they're all within 2-3 blocks of each other, so it's easy to bar hop.
  • Happy Endings - best divey bar, great for chill drinks
  • Maranta - Great service and music, but not a lively
  • La Vaquita - Best dance scene without being super expensive (I'm looing at you Capitol)

I also spent a week back in Spokane and Coeur d'Alene for work. Since I'm out that way a few times a year I try to check out new restaurants with the help of my local guide and friend Justin.

Our newest location was the Flying Goat, about 10 minutes north of downtown. This place is busy (even on a monday!) so get there early or see about reservations. But the food is solid!

Coeur d'Alene also has a really great vintage and thrifting scene. If that's your jam check out:

• Looking Glass on 4th
• Midtown Home & Vintage Market
• Vintage Guild

Travel Lessons Learned

A major part of traveling is figuring out how to get from the airport to the hotel (or house). If you're in large city (especially outside the US) public transportation is usually the best option. And apps like Uber and Bolt work around the world. There are however a few places where the rules are a little different.

In many tourist areas of Mexico, Uber is banned from picking up passengers at the airport, and there are no designated rideshare pick up zones. You can however get an Uber back to the airport for your departure. At the airport, you have to either take a private taxi 💸💸 or a shared shuttle which might take FOREVER.

In these types of resort towns, the best plan is to check about transportation directly with your hotel. Often times they will have their own (paid) shuttle services at reasonable prices. The caveat is they also have set pick up and departure times so you may have to wait. But, unlike the shared shuttles from the airport you will only share with people going to or from your hotel.

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Don't Forget!

If you are trying to plan a trip whether that's for this fall, Christmas markets in Europe or something for next year I can assist!

My old coworker reached out recently to help with a group trip to Thailand for next year. We had a quick call to talk dates, how many locations they want to visit, budget and the things they like to do. From there I was able to provide a number of options for hotels and tour activities for their vacation. They were so excited to not have to be the ones doing all the work.

I can book everything from cruises to private airport transportation and in between,

Fill out my intake form here

Blog Posts

Catch up on some of my blog posts

Hotel Reisen: Your Next luxury Hotel Stay in Stockholm From its central location in the Old Town, to a nordic spa, the Hotel Reisen has everything you need for the perfect stay in Stockholm. ​ Read Article

How to Maximize a Layover in Amsterdam Have a long layover in Amsterdam? Don’t waste your time in the airport, you can quickly leave and explore for the day with plenty of time to return for your flight. ​ Read Article

The Best Beaches in Dubrovnik Croatia has thousands of miles of coastline on the mainland and nearly 80 islands to visit, making the beaches a main attraction. If you’re looking for the best Dubrovnik beaches, I’ve got you covered. ​ Read Article

Travel Must Haves

Prevent motion sickness I am highly prone to motion sickness (I'm still shocked I made it through the Drake Passage, twice). These are non-prescription patches that are easy carry in your purse or wallet if you start to get a little queasy while traveling. And no doctors needed. Shop Here

Travel Resources

​Get help planning your next trip​

​Where to book your travel needs​

​My must have travel items​​

​The best travel credit card for beginners​

​Manage your credit cards, benefits and card offers with this helpful app ​

Thanks for following along! Carli

P.S. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links. What does that mean you ask? I may earn a small commission, but you won’t pay any extra.