Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Spring is here: trip to Phipps

"Spring is the time of year when it is summer in the sun and winter in the shade."

This quote has never been truer than the past few days! Last week it was warm and sunny and then we woke up this week with snow! I never know if I should wear a coat or not, haha! 

Thankfully, I have found a spot close to campus that feels like Spring everyday! I always love visiting Phipps Conservatory, but my last visit was extra amazing. The Spring Flower Show has transformed the feeling of the entire place. This year's theme celebrates rain and its importance. 



As you walk into the main room, there are umbrellas covering the ceiling. Rain noises are surrounding you, coming from the various fountains throughout the conservatory. And you are instantly relaxed. 

So relaxed that studying doesn't seem as much of a chore. Surrounded by gorgeous colors and delicious scents makes you want to come back everyday (which I plan to do, hehe).  



Phipps Conservatory 
One Schenley Park
Pittsburgh, Pa 15213

Thursday, March 19, 2015

Caffeine Kick: 4121 Main

Hello, everyone! How are you on this lovely afternoon?

To celebrate the amazing Spring weather that has finally arrived, my friend and I did what we do best....got coffee! I have been obsessing over 4121 Main after finding them on Instagram and decided that it was time to actually check them out in person. All of their posts are fantastic and just make you want to take time out of your day to go enjoy a latte.


The photos set my expectations high but the store didn't disappoint. As you walk in, there is art and flowers all around you. It is a very inspiring space despite being a little bit smaller than I had imagined. Still, there was plenty of space for my friend and I to sit and chat before taking some cool photos of the decor! 




As you all probably know by now, I am a lover of vanilla lattes. Unfortunately, 4121 Main sticks with just standard drinks and no flavorings. Still, I got a flat white and my friend got a cappuccino...both were really good and the latte art was brilliant! 

I can't wait to go back again to try something else and buy art or flowers!



4121 Main
Pittsburgh, PA, 15224

What I ordered: a flat white 
What I am going to try next time: a pot of hot tea

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Pod 51


Hiya! I feel like it is one thing to explore New York and have an amazing time and it is a completely separate thing to be able to find a hotel in New York where you feel comfortable relaxing and recharging at an affordable price. 

During my last trip to NYC, I found the spot where all of these ideas intersect....it's called Pod 51 (I booked through Expedia)! 


Conveniently located in Midtown East on 3rd Ave and 51 st, you are close to plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Not only that but you are short walk away from Grand Central Station and the 5th Ave shops


Now, if you are looking for a room at the Palace (located an avenue to the west), Pod 52 isn't for you. The rooms are quite small but use all of their space wisely! 

Kate and I booked a bunk room that has a shared, private bathroom. However, upon our arrival we were upgraded to a room with our own private bathroom! It was very clean, comfortable, and somewhat quiet. 


My least favorite and favorite part of the hotel was the bathroom....there was an oddly placed window so the bathroom wasn't very private. To make up for this there was a round rain shower head!


It was exactly what I needed after walking 15 miles around Manhattan and I highly suggest it for college student traveling to NYC!