After spending a weekend there with my bestie, I am happy to report back that it is indeed a really cool spot for your next getaway. Whether you’ve been eyeing this gem for a while or this is the first time you’re hearing about it, in this post I’ll walk you through what a girls’ weekend itinerary at Crystal Springs Resort in New Jersey can look like for you!

Crystal Springs Resort Logistics

Before we jump into what my itinerary at Crystal Springs Resort consisted of, let me tell you a little more about it first! Crystal Springs has two hotels, the Grand Cascades Lodge and the Minerals Hotel. I stayed at the Grand Cascades Lodge so this blog post will cover the amenities and my experience there.

Where is Crystal Springs Resort Located?

Crystal Springs Resort is located in the scenic city of Hamburg, in northern New Jersey. Hamburg is surrounded by mountains and some great nature you can explore. It’s a little over an hour from the George Washington Bridge or the Lincoln Tunnel and you’ll have to drive there as there are no public transport options.

When is the best time to visit Crystal Springs?

While warmer months will be a better choice simply to do the weather, visiting during cooler ones also has its perks. Any East Coast person will tell you that what they love the most about this area is our 4 seasons. So if you visit Crystal Springs in the summer, you’ll have great weather and green trees but if you visit it in the fall, you’ll get your amazing mountain foliage views instead. However, visiting in the winter and being surrounded by the snow while enjoying your outdoor heated pool isn’t a bad option either 🙂

Why Choose crystal springs for your Girls’ Weekend getaway?

Whether you’re looking for a Girls’ Weekend just for yourself and your bestie, an awesome local getaway with your mom (hint, hint, this is a sweet way to treat your mom for the upcoming Mother’s Day), or are planning a bigger group for a Bach party, Crystal Springs Resort is an awesome choice for the following reasons:

1. It’s local! You don’t need to travel far to experience an awesome getaway not too far from home.
2. Everything is already on-site so you won’t have to plan any logistics of transportation to and from the place. We’ve all been on those trips where organizing Ubers and groups is a major source of unwanted stress!
3. There is truly something for everyone, so for example, if half your group wants massages and the other wants to go on a mini-hike, you have tons of options on what to do!
4. The food. It was really tasty! No one will be complaining about the options, trust me.
5. There is wine. In a giant stunning wine cellar.

Amenities & Activities at Crystal Springs Resort

The key to any successful local mini-vacation is being able to do awesome things right on-site. What honestly impressed me with Crystal Springs is the selection of things to do there. With a little something for everyone, let me tell you some options of things they offer:

• Biosphere Pool: The pool is located under a glass dome which brings in the sunlight and sun rays for an all-year-round tan. The tropical foliage along with a perfect toasty indoor temperature will make you feel like you’ve been temporarily transported out of NJ. Additionally, there are two outdoor heated pools that you can enjoy in the cold months as well. During the summer, there is an outdoor infinity pool too.
• Reflections Spa: If you want to squeeze in a good massage or treat yourself to a beauty treatment, this luxury spa has everything you’ll need.
• Golf Courses: I don’t golf but I imagine it’s a perfect way to send your significant other away for a little if you want some peace and quiet to yourself 🙂
• Wine Cellar: An impressive collection of wines in a stunning cellar that you can tour. They also have really fun wine tasting which was one of the highlights of my stay!
• Scenic Grounds: The surrounding area gives serious mountain vibes and you can explore it on your own as well on the numerous self-guided mini hikes.
• Restaurants: You don’t have to worry about food there as Crystal Springs offers some great food spots on the property!
• Activities: If you’re staying for a weekend, you won’t have enough time to do everything but you’ll certainly have choices. Some of the activities offered include the following: fitness classes like a goat yoga class, a Cabaret Show, a mixology class, and even ax throwing. There is an online schedule that shows you what is offered on what day allowing you to plan and book ahead.

What a Girls’ Weekend Getaway at Crystal Springs Resort Looks like

Now that you have an idea of what Crystal Springs Resort offers, let me show you what a weekend looked like there for me and my bestie! If you can imagine yourself on this itinerary, this is your sign to book this gem.

Day 1: Arrival, Dinner at Springs Bistro & Live Music

We arrived right after our check-in time (4pm) at the Grand Cascades Lodge and were greeted by the stunning mountain surroundings. Our 1-bedroom suite had a large kitchen, living room, fireplace, balcony with awesome views, a king-sized bed, and a bathroom with a jacuzzi tub and heated floors. It had the perfect lodge vibe for this girls’ weekend getaway and was very spacious for two people.

A 1-bedroom Suite at Grand Cascades Lodge at Crystal Springs Resort

Our first-night dinner reservation was at Springs Bistro, an Italian Restaurant on-site serving a variety of delicious bites. I had a Mushroom Pizza while my bestie enjoyed Gnocchi alla Vodka. Both dishes were exactly what we needed! For cocktails, we had the Paloma Milanese and a unique creation called Figment of Your Imagination. The staff was exceptional and made sure we were well taken care of as well!

After dinner, we headed over to the other side of the resort to the Crystal Tavern for some live music and more cocktails. We enjoyed the music and headed back to the room to watch our favorite shows and then got some much-needed rest!

Day 2: Full Activity Day

The first night was a great introduction to what Crystal Springs Resort offers but Day 2 is when we really explored the property and got to participate in a day full of activities!

Breakfast at the Buffet

For breakfast, you have some options depending on what you prefer. First, you can always cook it yourself if your room has a fully equipped kitchen like ours did. Second, there is a small cafe with quick bites close to the reception where you can grab coffee and small snacks. Third, there is an ala carte menu at Crystal Tavern which I will describe later on. And lastly, there is a breakfast buffet which offers a truly impressive selection of breakfast foods.

We decided to try the buffet option which was priced at around $30 a person. Personally, it was too much food for me to try everything but I’m also not a buffet person to begin with. I’ll say this is a good option if you’re really hungry or if you want to try a little bit of everything.

Relaxation at crystal springs biosphere pool

After breakfast, we headed over to the awesome Biosphere Pool. As I mentioned earlier in the post, this is a really impressive structure in a giant glass dome that brings in the light and sunshine. There are tropical plants surrounding the pool within a nice 85-degree surrounding. You can lay out on the lounge chairs but I recommend getting there earlier in the day as they fill up quickly! The outdoor portion is awesome because you can enjoy a 90 and 99-degree pool on a cold crispy New Jersey winter day.

There is also a sauna on-site and I was shocked that not more people were using it! We had it all to ourselves for a nice sweat session.

The Biosphere Pool also has a small Mexican restaurant on-site which serves small bites along with some delicious cocktails. You can either grab it yourself or have some pool-side drinks served as you’re relaxing in your lounge chair.

Wine cellar tour

While we really enjoyed the Biosphere Pool, the next part of the itinerary was my favorite! I had no idea that Crystal Springs had a $10-million world-famous wine cellar in its basement. When we decided to take a guided wine cellar tour, we had no idea the extent of it. Guided by a very knowledgeable wine sommelier, we learned a ton about the history behind the collection and the most valuable bottles of it. She walked us through interesting facts about different wine regions as we toured this unbelievable place!

Wine tasting at Crystal Springs Resort

After the tour, we also signed up for the Wine Tasting which is also open to guests outside the resort if you want to pop in for a cool local activity! With our generous pours, we tasted sparking, white, and red wines while learning about different wine notes, regions, and things to look out for when choosing a wine. Additionally, we were given two super delicious small local cheese tastings.

While I have done many wine tastings in my life, this was a really awesome experience. My favorite part (aside from the truly amazing wines) was learning about the wines from a professional sommelier. I won’t say that I normally pay attention to wines on the level that we were shown to do, so moving forward, I will certainly have a new appreciation for how I taste wine.

Dinner at Crystal Tavern

Directly following the tasting, we had a dinner reservation at the Crystal Tavern Restaurant. I had the Halibut and my bestie enjoyed the Ricotta Agnolotti. Both were super tasty and exactly what we needed after the wine tasting. We decided to get the Sticky Toffee Pudding for dessert to end on a sweet note!

Cabaret show at crystal springs

After dinner, we had a little bit of time to change and get ready for the last activity of the day, the Cabaret Show. The performers vary by the weekend but on our visit we listened to the super-talented musician Hernan Romero play the guitar and sing, a local band playing some classic tunes, and a comedian doing some prop comedy.

The ticket included a glass of a selected drink and a choice of a chocolate or cheese fondue.

Day 3: Breakfast at Crystal Tavern & Check-out

On our last day, we decided to try the ala carte breakfast at Crystal Tavern. I personally preferred this choice over the previous day’s buffet. The views from the restaurant are great as you’re enjoying your morning coffee as well! For our breakfast dishes, we had the Steak & Eggs and Lobster Benedict. A solid 10/10 breakfast.

It was then time to say goodbye to our perfect Girls’ Weekend at Crystal Springs 🙁 We packed up and said that we’d come back during another season to enjoy the additional amenities we didn’t have a chance to explore like the Reflections Spa or the fitness classes that they offer. My best friend and I had a perfect time catching up, bonding over doing awesome activities, and simply relaxing on the beautiful grounds of this local resort!

Final thoughts on a Girls’ weekend at Crystal springs resort

I have lived in New Jersey for the majority of my life yet I’ve never spent a weekend at this local oasis. When thinking about getaways with your girlfriends we tend to default that this trip needs to involve a flight. However, I found a local gem that you can choose for your next mini-vacation with your friends right here in New Jersey!

If you’re looking to splurge a little or what I prefer to call self-invest, look no further but to Crystal Springs Resort! I hope you’ll like it as much as I did and that you’ll truly have the perfect New Jersey Girls’ Weekend!

Thank you so much to Crystal Springs for hosting me and my bestie on this awesome weekend getaway. Stay assured that all opinions are my own.

Whether you’ve been eyeing them for some time or are just learning about this unique NYC activity for the first time, I’m here to take you on a virtual tour of Tea Around Town in New York City!

If you’re planning to book this unique NYC activity, don’t forget to use my code KASIA5 for a Tea Around Town discount! Use Top View NYC to book your own afternoon tea time!

All you need to know about tea around town

What is the Tea around town Experience?

Tea Around Town NYC is a British-style afternoon tea experience but with a twist! Rather than sitting in a tea room, you’re cruising around mid-town in a double-decker pink bus. You’re served a variety of teas along with some bite-sized foods like savory sandwiches, scones, and pastries. In addition, you get to learn about the important NYC landmarks and are immersed in live entertainment by the staff.

Different Ticket Types for Tea Around Town

There are two different ticket tiers for the Tea Around Town experience. You’ll have the option of either the Standard Ticket for $69 and Premium Admission for $109. The difference between the two is supposed to be priority boarding, an expanded menu, and the option of a non-alcoholic mocktail. Both tickets include a branded plastic cup as a souvenir.

When checking in, on my specific tour, there was no distinction between the Premium ticket holders vs Standard ones. Our table was also pre-assigned so priority boarding isn’t a perk if you ask me. In terms of food, the Premium ticket menu has some additional items and you get a choice of non-alcoholic rose or mocktail. If alcohol was indeed included in the higher price, I’d say pay the extra amount. However, with what is currently included and at a difference of almost $40 between the two, I’d say the Standard Option is sufficient unless you’d like the additional food items.

The Tea Around Town Bus

The overly decorated bus was my favorite thing about this tour. The decoration, details, and overall vibe were one of a kind. The top seating was great for viewing and the roof was transparent allowing in extra light. We were seated among a pastel winter wonderland theme and I believe they change the decor seasonally as well.

The seating on the bus is very comfortable and there was also a bathroom on board. I thought that drinking hot tea on a moving bus might be challenging but our driver was super smooth! Happy to say that there were no spills or food drops throughout the tour.

Food & Beverages Options

As mentioned earlier, the main difference between the two ticket types is the type of menu you are offered. So let’s dive deeper into what the menu entails! Note that all these items are bite-sized as they are meant to be during teatime.

Both tickets include the following items:

• Savory: Cucumber & Cream Cheese Sandwich, Light and Green Egg Mayo Sandwich, Truffled Deviled Eggs, Plain Scone with Preserve and Creme on the side
• Sweets: Chocolate Mousse Tart, Pumpkin Tart, Macaron
• Tea and Coffee: Choices vary based on the tour, we got offered Earl Grey, Hibiscus Tea and Peppermint (our ride was not being offered coffee and I didn’t inquire about it)

Additional items included on the Premium Menu:

• Savory: Mini lox Bite on Pumpernickel, Village Rib Sandwich, Mini Lobster Puff
• Sweet: Cheesecake, Mini Eclair, Lemon Meringue and Pumpkin Cheese Cake (these slightly vary between the tours)
• Mocktail: Refresh Rose or Mockberrry Mint Delight

Overall I found the food very tasty between all the options! My favorite items were the Village Rib Sandwich and the Cheesecake. The non-alcoholic rose was very nice too but I do wish they served a glass of champagne instead. Teas were indeed delicious but we were only offered 3 out of all the ones the menu lists. Not sure if that’s the case on every ride but you won’t have the choice of all as listed on the menu.

Entertainment

The route had two types of entertainment. First, we were given some basic info about the iconic landmarks we drove past, and then second was the staff that sang on the route. Honestly, our performer could have easily been on Broadway! She had an amazing voice and at first, I didn’t even realize she was singing live! She sang some romantic NYC tunes as we sipped on our tea.

The staff taking care of us was lovely and they went above and beyond to make sure you’re happy with your experience.

Route Driven

I am including the picture of the route you’ll drive from the Tea Around Town website so you can get an idea of what you’ll see. Note that you don’t pause at any locations, just drive past them. If you’ve never been to NYC, the route will highlight the most popular spots in the city.

FAQ About Tea Around Town in NYC

What should I wear for afternoon tea on the bus?

This is quite a popular activity for girls’ weekend, a birthday or a bachelorette party. You’ll see groups dressed in themes, in pink or in traditional afternoon tea attire. In my opinion it’s a fun way to engage with the activity and lets you take amazing pictures against the stunning background on the bus! However, most people on our tour wore normal casual clothing as well, so if you’re not in the mood for a coordinated outfit, don’t worry! You’ll fit in no matter what!

Where does the tour meet?

The tour meets at a location near Bryant Park. They provide the coordinates for you but the bus is slightly up the street. It might not be in the exact location but you can’t miss the giant pink bus parked ahead. There are many (6-10) tours throughout the day so confirm that your bus is the one that’s boarding new people rather than un-loading the previous group.

Boarding the Bus

The check-in process was not smooth at all to be completely transparent. There are no indications of how to line up and who to check in with. You have to scan your tickets with one person and then get checked in by another. No one also checked who had VIP and there was no priority boarding at all. The tables are pre-assigned so it doesn’t really matter when you get on, but I wish the organization was a little less chaotic than it was.

How long is the experience?

The tour is supposed to be 90 min including the boarding time so you end up on the bus for about ~75 min. It’s more than enough time for this experience.

Are there restrooms on the bus?

Yes, there are restrooms located on the lower level of the bus. There are also public bathrooms in Bryant Park right next to the bus’ meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for dietary restrictions?

Since this is a pre-set menu, if you’re a vegan or have any specific needs, I don’t think this is the experience for you as most of the food choices contain dairy, fish, and meat.

Final Thoughts on Tea Around town NYC

Tea Around Town is a cute and unique NYC activity that you can enjoy with a group or a friend (you do need to book a minimum of two tickets as well so this is not a solo activity option). The bus is stunningly decorated, the food is tasty and the tea is hot! Whether you’re visiting from out of town or are a local, I hope this post gave you some insight into what the Tea Around Town experience entails!

Coupon Code for tea Around Town NYC

If you’re planning to book this unique NYC activity, don’t forget to use my code KASIA5 for a Tea Around Town discount! Use Top View NYC to book your own afternoon tea time!

Thank you to Tea Around Town for hosting me on this experience!

Tasty Tours NYC Greenwich Village Food Tour does an amazing job not only with its food route but also with highlighting various interesting cultural landmarks.

In this blog post, I will take you along on this Greenwich Village NYC Food Tour by Tasty Tours NYC. We’ll go to the general itinerary which I hope convinces you to book this gem of a tour for your next weekend adventure.

Whether you’re a local or someone visiting New York looking for a unique activity, this is an amazing tour that I highly recommend!

Why Choose Greenwich Village for a Food Tour?

With so many interesting neighborhoods in NYC, I often find it hard to narrow down which area I want to explore when choosing a food tour. While I am no stranger to Greenwich Village, I realized how little I know about its history and its staple food gems.

Greenwich Village boasts a captivating tapestry of cultural history and a food scene that emphasizes the culinary diversity of NYC. Steeped in artistic legacy and progressive ideologies, this iconic neighborhood has long been a melting pot of cultures, attracting intellectuals, bohemians, and food enthusiasts alike. Greenwich Village’s culinary landscape is a reflection of its eclectic community, offering an array of flavors from around the globe.

In essence, Greenwich Village isn’t just a destination for food; it’s a destination for culinary discovery, where every bite tells a story and every meal is an opportunity to connect with the soul of this iconic neighborhood.

Why Choose Tasty Tours NYC Greenwich Village Food Tour Compared to others?

Tasty Tours NYC is run by Ryan who is truly passionate about bringing you on this culinary journey with him. He started the company last summer to combine activities that make his soul happy: being outdoors while finding something unique about his neighborhoods, eating well and sharing that experience with others, and meeting exciting people from all over the world.

I had a blast spending the afternoon with him and he made everyone on the tour as if he was your NYC friend taking you on an afternoon adventure around his favorite neighborhood.

What I specifically loved about his itinerary were the following:

1. diversity of the foods chosen for this route – it was a selection of some of the best NYC staples
2. dietary accommodation for a vegetarian diet – this particular tour accommodated my friend who was vegetarian and didn’t feel like she was left out of any tastings!
3. historical spots and learning about the neighborhood which I otherwise wouldn’t have known about
4. group size, and overall atmosphere!

What to Expect on tasty tours NYC Greenwich Village Food Tour

Food Tour Logistics

The Greenwich Village Food Tour consists of 6 food spots along with stops at historical landmarks in between. It’s meant to highlight the cultural staples of NYC food with its diversity in cuisine. It’ll last between 2-3 hours depending on the pace of the group and you’ll walk for about 1.5 miles. It’s priced very well at $79 a tour which is more than reasonable for all that you get!

Food Stops

When you’re eating at 6 places, the key to experiencing every bite equally is pacing. The last thing you want to do is be full after the first or second stop. I could confidently say that Tasty Tours NYC figured out the perfect portions for us! Each of the stops below was awesomely chosen and the combination of all different cuisines genuinely hit the spot each time.

If you’re curious about the itinerary, on Tasty Tour’s Greenwich Village Food Tour, these are the stops we covered on our particular tour:

Food Stop 1: Bagel Bob’s

The tour started at a local college staple, Bagel Bob’s. Having grown up in New Jersey and been spoiled by some really good bagels throughout my life, I am very picky about my spots. What makes NYC/NJ bagels so good is indeed the water that we have in this area and years and years of craft experience. Bagel Bob’s did not disappoint with their perfect creations: a classic hand-rolled sesame bagel with whipped cream cheese.

And the cutest thing was the fact that these bagels were miniature! I mean … perfection.

Landmark Stops: House of Death, Washington Mews and Washington Square Park

After our delicious bagels, we made our way over to the House of Death, an unassuming brownstone known for multiple ghost sightings and some spooky history. Oh, and it’s famous for the fact that Mark Twain briefly lived there and is seen roaming around as a ghost to this day 👻.

Our next landmark stop was the Washington Mews, now a picturesque gated street and previously a known horse stable/home neighborhood. It’s not hard to understand why this area was and still is highly desirable among artists, creatives, and educators. It is truly a super charming oasis in the middle of busy NYC.

Our last digestion stop for this leg of the tour was the amazing Washington Square Park. This park is simply a must on any NYC itinerary so I’m glad it is included on this tour. I always love people-watching there at any time of the year, however, Ryan told us some spooky history that I didn’t know was a part of the park’s story.

Food Stop 2: Mamoun’s Falafel

Having gone to Rutgers University, I am no stranger to Mamoun’s which also has a location in New Brunswick. So when we stopped at the original location, I was ecstatic. We had the most perfect Falafel along with their homemade sauces! I am not lying when I tell you these are some of the best falafels you’ll ever have.

Landmark Stops: Comedy Cellar

Right next to Mamoun’s is NYC’s best-known comedy institution, Comedy Cellar. If you’ve never heard of this place, it’s famous for comedians to randomly show up and test out their new material there. It has multiple shows per day and is a place that you should visit at least once in your life. Don’t be surprised when your phone is taken away, that’s usually a sign that someone big is coming up on stage!

Food Stop 3: Faicco’s Italian Deli

There is nothing more NYC than a true Italian Deli! So our next food stop had to naturally be that at Faicco’s Italian Deli. You can truly feel the vibe of a traditional Italian shop when you step foot inside the store. Not only can you find a variety of Italian products but you can also get a fresh Italian sub for later 🙂

Our tasting included mini arancini balls in fresh marinara sauce. They were truly mouthwatering and I would have easily eaten 5 more.

Landmark Stop: T-Swift Apartment

Unlike the rest of the world, I am not a Swiftie. However, it was cool to make our next landmark spot at 23 Cornelia Street, a former home of Taylor Swift. While unassuming from the outside, this is actually a giant space with a pool!!! inside the apartment!

More than the apartment, I enjoyed the charming street and neighborhood that it was located on. I can certainly see the charm of this place as an inspiration for her songs.

Food Stop 4: Bleecker Street Pizza

And now to my favorite stop of the tour, the pizza stop!!! I am a huge pizza gal so when I found out that we’ll be stopping at Bleecker Street Pizza, my soul was happy.

We had the traditional Margherita-style slice. If you’re not a stranger to NYC-style pizza, you’ll love this particular slice! On the other hand, if you’ve never had a true NYC slice, this will set your standards pretty high.

Food Stop 5: Little Taco

Continuing the trend of NYC staples, we stopped at an unassuming hole in the wall, The Little Taco. We had carne tacos for the non-vegetarian group and cactus tacos for our plant eaters. Both versions were awesome and I’d certainly come back to try other foods there.

Landmark Stops: Friend’s Apartment, Twin Houses of Commerce Street

Next, we took a walk towards the famous Friend’s Apartment. Most fans of the show know that the show wasn’t filmed there however, this apartment is seen as the opening scene for most of the episodes. It was cool to see it in person especially that I wouldn’t have probably visited this touristy spots by myself!

After seeing the Friend’s Apartment, we walked over to see the Twin Houses of Commerce Street. We learned about the history of this unique building and walked around the charming streets surrounding them.

Food Stop 6: Molly’s Cupcakes

Last but not least, we ended the tour at Molly’s Cupcakes tasting NYC’s famous sweet treats. Molly’s is an award-winning cupcake shop and has a very unique selection of flavors!

I had the Samoa Cupcake which was stuffed with some mouth-watering coconut filling. It was the perfect ending to our afternoon tour!

Final Thoughts on Tasty Tour NYC’s Greenwich Village Food Tour

Having been on a dozen+ food tours all over the world, it’s hard to find unique experiences that don’t feel scripted. But I can easily say that Ryan from Tasty Tours NYC has created the PERFECT Greenwich Village Food Tour!

All the stops were perfectly curated, the portions perfectly portioned and most importantly, the tour was a ton of fun. I’m sure that repeating the same route multiple times per week gets well … repetitive. However, his excitement and enthusiasm felt as if he was taking a friend around for the first time. He made sure to personally spend time with each of the tour’s participants and share something personal with them.

If you’re in NYC looking for a unique activity, don’t think twice and book one of Tasty Tour NYC Food Tours. In addition to the Greenwich Village one, Ryan also hosts routes on the Upper East and West Side as well.

How to Book Your Greenwich Village Food Tour with Tasty Tours NYC

Simply visit his website for the schedule! Here is the link for ya.

I want to thank Tasty Tours for hosting me and my guest on this tour. You can be sure that this opinion is honest and that I wouldn’t recommend something I personally did not enjoy!

With that said, I bring you an awesomely planned out 4-day Ibiza itinerary that’s a mix of beautiful places, beaches, and great food. I did sprinkle a night of clubbing in there in case you’re tempted but no worries, this itinerary is not centered around partying.

Vamos a Eivissa!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post.

want a copy of the Ibiza Itinerary for the road?

Quick Logistics Of Traveling To Ibiza

Before embarking on your full Ibiza itinerary, here are some things you should know before traveling there. Knowing all the logistics and what to generally expect, will make your trip a lot less stressful on arrival.

Can you go to ibiza without partying?

Ibiza has a reputation for being a huge party destination. People go to experience the infamous club atmosphere and live the hype. Is that all Ibiza is good for then? No! It is SO much more than the handful of clubs so if that’s your concern, don’t worry, there is plenty to do outside the club scene. And you’ll have more than enough to do to explore Ibiza in 4 or even 10 days.

While I do recommend a night of dancing in a sweaty club, one is all you’ll need (unless you’re a 21-year-old stepping into one for the first time 🙂 ). And to be completely honest, if you’re past the age of 30 and have done some partying in your life, Ibiza won’t impress you as much as you think it will. The music is great that’s for sure, but 25 euro drinks, 60 euro entrance fees, and a ton of drunk teenagers won’t be the highlight of your Ibiza adventures at that age.

Curious about another party island? Check out my Mykonos post.

How to get to Ibiza?

There are a couple of ways to get to the island. In the summer, Ibiza has a good amount of direct flights from most major airports in Europe. Book as early as you can because you’ll be able to snag a $30 flight compared to $200 closer to the season.

The second way to get to Ibiza is by booking a ferry from mainland Spain in Barcelona, Valencia or Denia or connecting islands like Mallorca or Formentera. They won’t be very cheap but are a good option if you’re nearby.

And if you’re coming from Spain don’t forget to check out my Week in Spain Itinerary or if you want to explore another Spain island, consider Tenerife.

Where to stay in Ibiza?

Choose an area based on how you want to experience Ibiza

I’d recommend choosing where to stay based on what you want to prioritize on the island. The southern part of the island is close to the airport and the ferry the Formentera and in my opinion is generally nicer to stay in.

If you want to party, Sant Jordi/Playa d’en Bossa has clubs like Ushuaia or HI. I recommend staying in Ibiza Town which is close to the clubs and will also give you everything you need: great restaurants, a transport hub, and activities. I also really loved Santa Eularia, a much more quiet but cute beach town close to Ibiza town (20 mins).

In the north, you have another major city Sant Antoni. I stayed there for a night and explored some northern points but I can’t say I loved it as much as the southern end. The amount of drunk teenagers at bachelor parties didn’t appeal to me.

Here are some hotel recommendations for Ibiza Town as that would be my top area to stay in:

Should you stay at a party hotel?

Party hotels in Ibiza are another level. So if you want to party from your balcony at Ushuaia or Hard Rock you’re in for nights of no sleep. Would I stay at one of those? Probably not but if I were looking for the ultimate Ibiza party experience that’s what I would do.

Note that these Ibiza party hotels are PRICEY. Especially during high season, you will be paying a ton of money to stay there but you will get an unmatched experience when it comes to being in the heart of an Ibiza party. Another option I’d recommend if the stay seems too hardcore is to stay in a quieter hotel next door which will allow you to party on your terms.

I stayed at Fergus Style Bahamas next door to Ushuaia and enjoyed my beachfront room. When I booked it I didn’t realize it was a resort but it ended up being a very nice relaxing spot.

Navigating the Island

The best way to navigate Ibiza is to rent a car. It’s easy and gives you so much more freedom to explore the island on your own terms. I rented with Click&Rent and had an ok experience. The rental place was located a 5-minute shuttle ride to the airport and they were fairly quick on getting me the car. The only complaint is that they made me get an international driver’s license on the spot for an extra fee which is something I never had to get before in Europe. Note that you can easily get them at the local AAA office.

I personally always book through rentalcars.com because of their variety of vendors and great prices.

Best Time to Visit Ibiza

The best time to visit the island is without a doubt summer as the atmosphere picks up with the warmer weather. The island is also highly seasonal so visiting outside it, a lot of places and activities will be closed. However, as in any high season, visiting in peak July or August will come with super high temperatures and many tourists. If you don’t mind a slightly colder water, May or September will be much better for your visit.

Random Info

• Ibiza is expensive. Be prepared to spend a good chunk of money on the island.
• If you’ve seen the videos of Ibiza Airport and passed-out 20-year-olds on the floor from all the partying, I can vouch for that indeed that is a true sight 🙂
• Ibiza is so much more than drunk Europeans clubbing if you go to the right places.
• The food is amazing on the island. I don’t think I ate at one bad place.

Now Let’s Get to the Awesome 4-Day Ibiza Itinerary

As I mentioned above, I stayed in Playa d’en Bossa for the first half of my trip and then made my way over to Sant Antoni for the second part. I always build my itineraries in the best way I think you should visit a place so I won’t recommend doing exactly what I did.

I’d simply rather stay in or near Ibiza Town and use it as my base for exploring. The itinerary below will be based on staying in Ibiza Town but also having a rental car. Without a rental car, it will be difficult to see everything on the island.

Day 1: Beach, Food and Sunsets

Morning: Beach & Lunch

There is nothing better than starting your Ibiza vacation on a beach. For your first day of your 4 day Ibiza itinerary, I recommend picking a beach or two and making a drive to spend your whole day doing nothing, but lounging in the Ibiza sun and having a beachfront meal at whichever spot you chose from below. Here are some ideas for your beach day, from closest to furthest to Ibiza Town:

• Platja de Ses Figueretes: This gem of a beach is conveniently close to Ibiza Old Town, approximately a 10-minute drive. This urban beach has a mix of fine sand and rocky areas. Its main perk is its proximity to the town, making it easily accessible for a quick beach day. But note that because of its closeness to town, it will be busy and it probably won’t be the nicest beach on the island. There are beachfront bars and restaurants serving a variety of dishes, perfect for a casual meal with a sea view. While there, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade and explore the nearby shops.
• Bossa Beach: Bossa Beach, located just south of Ibiza Old Town, is famous for its proximity to popular beach clubs. It takes approximately 10 minutes to reach Bossa Beach by car. Again, don’t expect breathtaking views here but it is still a very nice way to enjoy a day at the beach. I stayed near it and enjoyed it. The main attraction here is the energetic beach scene with music, water sports, and beach parties. Numerous beachfront bars and restaurants line the shore, offering a mix of cuisines but I personally loved Ammos right on the beach.
• Cala Tarida: Cala Tarida is a beach situated about 20 minutes southwest of Ibiza Old Town. Known for its soft white sand and shallow turquoise waters, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the sea. It’s known for the calm and clear Mediterranean, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are some beachfront restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, making it convenient for a beachside lunch. I’d rent a sunbed and umbrella for added comfort, and explore the nearby coves for a more secluded experience. This spot will certainly be a lot nice compared the beaches closer to town.
• Platges de Comte: Located approximately 25 minutes southwest of Ibiza Old Town by car, this beach offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The main attraction here is the vibrant and colorful sunset, making it a popular spot for evening gatherings. There are several beachfront bars and restaurants where you can enjoy drinks and seafood while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset viewing, and consider bringing a picnic for a cozy beach experience.

Afternoon: Sunsets & Dinner

For the evening part of the day, head over to the famous Cala D’Hort for sunset to see the stunning Es Verda Rock. Cala d’Hort, located about 35 minutes southwest of Ibiza Old Town, is celebrated for its iconic view of the mysterious Es Vedrà. This limestone outcrop stands as one of the most recognized landmarks. Beyond its picturesque beauty, Es Vedrà holds spiritual significance, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking inspiration and a connection to the island’s unique charm. Whether viewed from the shore or explored up close, the island promises a journey into the heart of Ibiza’s intriguing mystique. I’d recommend heading there for sunset to enjoy its magic.

After sunset, head to Ibiza Town for a nice meal. Some places known for its quality are:

• La Bodega: Tucked away in the charming streets of Old Town, La Bodega is a culinary gem known for its authentic Spanish tapas. This cozy restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and a diverse menu of small, flavorful dishes.
• Ses Taules: Nestled in the heart of Dalt Vila, Ses Taules is a charming restaurant specializing in Mediterranean and Ibizan cuisine. Known for its picturesque courtyard setting and historic surroundings, it serves up dishes inspired by the island’s rich culinary traditions.
• Callas Ibiza: Situated in the heart of Old Town, Can Terra is a beloved restaurant known for its exceptional Italian cuisine. It’s a perfect spot in the heart of Ibiza’s historic center.
• La Oliva: La Oliva is a charming restaurant located centrally in Old Town, celebrated for its Mediterranean and Ibizan-inspired dishes. This intimate eatery boasts a cozy courtyard and a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients.
• Bar 1805: Don’t forget to grab a nightcap at this gem which also serves some delicious French bites!

Day 2: Towns, Markets & Nightlife

Ibiza Old Town: Dalt Vila

Start of your day at a cute cafe in the heart of Ibiza. Croissant Show has freshly baked pastries, hearty omelets, and Mediterranean-inspired options while enjoying the atmosphere of the old streets. Passion Café is a popular Old Town spot offering organic and plant-based breakfast choices, from smoothie bowls to avocado dishes, in a trendy setting. Lastly Cafe Sidney has a cozy ambiance for a breakfast featuring fluffy pancakes, Spanish-style tortillas, and sandwiches.

After getting a good breakfast, it’s time to explore the Old Town or Dalt Vila. There is no solid Ibiza itinerary without exploring this part of the island. Start your adventure at the grand Portal de Ses Taules – the front door to this fortified gem, holding the key to centuries of historical significance. As you stroll through the charming Dalt Vila alleys, exploring gems like Plaza de la Vila and the Santa Maria Cathedral, take note of its medieval vibe and UNESCO World Heritage status.

Next, climb up to the historic fortress for epic views that once protected the city against pirates, and then head down to Sa Penya, the artsy quarter, where every corner exudes the essence of Ibiza’s cultural tapestry. Continue your day at Plaça del Sol, surrounded by local life, all while shopping for unique finds at all the local shops.

I love to call myself a “port-gal” because there is just something about the port atmosphere that makes my heart happy. So for lunch I’d recommend having a meal right in the heart of the Ibiza Marina at Calma. It serves Mediterranean cuisine and won’t disappoint.

Afternoon visit to Santa Eularia and/Or Hippie Market

For the afternoon, head over to Santa Eularia des Riu, a cute down a short 20 min drive from Ibiza. It’s a gorgeous little down to enjoy a stroll through. While it is recommended on a lot of guides, I kind of stumbled upon it by accident while driving through it. There are many outdoor cafes and a cozy beach promenade which is great for people watching!

Another great attraction on the island is the Hippy Market. I mean did you even go to Ibiza if you didn’t visit one? Are they touristy? Yes. Are they cute? Yes. Would I recommend visiting one? Yes. There are a bunch of them throughout the island depending on the day of the week so check out this page for the schedule.

Evening: Pre-party siesta & a little bit of partying

Since you probably had a very long day, don’t forget to snatch a siesta before embarking on a night adventure. And don’t worry, Ibiza parties don’t start until 1am or so, so you’ll have plenty of time to rest.

Now party time.

Although this is not an Ibiza party guide, I would at least check out one club on your Ibiza Itinerary so you can experience what the hype is all about. Ibiza is known for its wild party scene and there is bound to be an event somewhere. The biggest DJs will come flying in for the summer with a lot of residency shows. Expect drinks to be 20 euros plus and entry tickets varying from 30ish euro to 100+ for bigger names.

Here is a quick list of all the most famous Ibiza clubs:

• Pacha: This spot does not need an introduction. It is by far one of the most known clubs in the world and it’s a total experience to party there.
• HI Ibiza: A newer kid on the block but rated ads the best club in the world. I mean …
• Ushuaia: A club and a hotel is a place located in Playa d’en Bossa. It brings pretty big names during the summer.
• San Antonio has clubs like Eden or Ibiza Rocks but having stayed in San Antonio, I wouldn’t recommend it. The sheer amount of drunk British teenagers wasn’t for me.

There are honestly at least a dozen more party spots on the island. I’d simply choose a place based on who’s playing where. As I mentioned earlier, the party starts after midnight and headliners won’t come on until 3 am or so. If you’re a retired 30+-year-old partier like myself, make sure you chug a couple of Red Bulls before your night out. Or pay 15 euros for one inside a club. Oh and don’t be that guy to buy anything tempting from people outside the club.

Day 3: Relax & Beach or Activity!

I choose relaxing

The past two days have been busy for you so I want you to take a step back and make sure to spend the day relaxing on your vacation as well. Whether that’s taking a break on your hotel lounger or taking a scenic drive across the island to another beach, don’t miss out on enjoying a true island day.

We visited Cala Saladeta close to Sant Antoni, a gorgeous beach with a small hike to get there. It was beyond stunning so I’d highly recommend taking the 30 min drive from Old Town to see it. While there you can also explore the city of Sant Antoni.

Second place we drove to was Cala de Sant Vincent which is a small beach town with amazing waterfront restaurants. While there, check out The Boat House for lunch. Honestly, that restaurant alone is worth the drive.

I Choose Activity

If your explorer brain won’t let you relax for the day (don’t worry I’m like that too 🙂 ) then I recommend choosing a fun activity on the island. Here are some cool ideas for the day:

• Snorkeling and Cave Tour – A 3-hour tour that leaves from Sant Antoni. It includes snorkeling gear and cave exploration in the nearby calas of Ibiza.
• Beach Hopping on Catamaran – I mean who doesn’t want to spend half a day hopping beautiful beaches in the Southern part of the island?
• Old Town Food Tour – If the weather is messing with your perfect Ibiza beach day, book an in-town food tour instead.
• Have a Professional Photo Shoot – No shame in wanting to get that perfect Insta shot! Better yet when a professional does it 🙂

Day 4: Boat Day to formentera

On your last day, head to Formentera, a stunning island located a short 30-min boat trip from Ibiza. I highly regret not going like I planned. Let’s just say that getting sick on vacation is never fun. However, I won’t let you miss out on this amazing destination!

There are a couple of ways to reach this small island. First you can simply take a ferry from Ibiza Town Port to La Savina Port with numerous daily departures. Second, if you’re traveling with a group of friends, it might be worth to book a private boat to get you there.

Formentera Highlights

The best way to travel around the island is by renting a scooter for the day. Or if you’re lazy simply walk from the port to a beach and enjoy spending the day in the sun. Some top highlights include:

• Playa de Ses Illetes: The poster child of Formentera beaches in the north part of the island.Make sure not to miss these crystal clear baby blue waters. It’s true Spain paradise.
• Playa de Migjorn: On the south end, you’ll find another beauty to explore.
• Various Markets: Sant Ferran, La Mola or La Savina are located throughout the island.

map for your 4-day ibiza itinerary

In this post, I’ll talk about how to increase your chances of getting Tomorrowland tickets, what to expect from the festival, what to bring with you and how to make the most out of it. I will try to cover everything that I researched prior to the event and everything I wish I had done differently as well.

While Tomorrowland isn’t coming up until July, you have to start thinking about all the logistics way ahead. Pre-sale and tickets come out for sale in the winter and you need to be ready by then. With all that said, let’s get to all the logistics necessary for your optimal Tomorrowland experience!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. 🙂

Things to know before Tomorrowland

What is Tomorrowland?

If you’re reading this, you probably already know what Tomorrowland is, but if you’re just stumbling upon this post, let me give you a brief introduction to this event.

Tomorrowland is an annual electronic music festival that takes place in Boom, Belgium. For the most part, it happens the last two weekends of July. At first, it started as a small local festival in 2005 and grew into an event that draws crowds from all over the world. In 2023, over 400,000 people attended during both weekends!

The festival has the most famous DJs performing all weekend with all types of electronic music sub-genres. There are 14 stages each uniquely decorated with the Mainstage being the biggest and most artistically involved. Tomorrowland grounds include a beautiful set-up, entertainment, food, and most importantly, an amazing vibe from the people coming together.

How to get Tomorrowland tickets?

Before we get into the guide and logistics of what Tomorrowland entails, let’s talk about the tickets. Everyone who plans on going to Tomorrowland dreads this day the most, as it determines if your dreams will be crushed or not. I’m not even going to lie, it’s hard, like REALLY hard to get Tomorrowland tickets, however, it is not impossible. There really isn’t a magic formula to get them so you have to be really prepared in to increase your chances of getting them.

First and foremost, pre-register on the Tomorrowland website so you’ll get all the major announcements regarding ticket sales. Although the timelines are very similar every year, you will need to keep track of all the dates. And yes, you’ll be buying tickets 6-7 months in advance!

Tomorrowland Ticket Sales:

No matter which ticket packages you choose, the purchasing process is the same. You will log into your account at the designated time and wait in a virtual queue until the system allows you to enter the purchasing portal. You cannot have multiple windows open as it will kick you out. I imagine this is only getting to get more competitive and complex as the festival keeps on growing each year.

In my experience during pre-sale, I did not even get into the purchasing stage as everything sold out within 20 minutes of me being online 😉

Here is what you need to know about the different types of Tomorrowland ticket sales:

• Global Journey Sale opens before any other sales. This involves purchasing a whole package including transport and accommodations along with your tickets. It will be the most expensive option but also your best chance of getting tickets.
• The Pre-Sale starts the weekend before the actual global sale so you’ll want to access that before the general worldwide dates. You will need to register for it in order to access it. In 2023, this took place the last weekend of January.
• The General Sale will happen a week after so if you don’t get tickets in pre-sale, you’ll be able to try again during this time.
• The Waitlist happens after everything sells out. This is your last chance to get tickets closer to the festival date as some extra tickets get released. It’s the most risky too as you won’t know if you can attend until pretty much last minute. If you’re traveling internationally, I don’t recommend banking on this.
• Resell Tickets are pretty available on all the major ticket platforms BUT officially Tomorrowland doesn’t allow for this. I personally wouldn’t take the risk of getting these as you’ll hear of multiple accounts of people being scammed.

Types of Tomorrowland Tickets

Generally there 4 types of Tomorrowland Tickets: Day Passes, Full Madness (Weekend Pass), Dreamville, and Global Journey. I would highly recommend getting Full Madness or Global Journey as going to the festival for 1 day is simply not enough to experience it.

Day Passes and Full Madness include just the festival tickets and cost 125 and 295 euros (2023 prices). Comfort tickets (VIP) are slightly more expensive and include access to blocked-off areas that have bars, toilets, and some other cool features like jacuzzis at the MainStage.

Dreamville Packages include tickets and stay on the Tomorrowland grounds and vary depending on what type of experience you’re looking for. The most basic package starts at around 370 euros and includes a camping spot and goes up to villas for 10s of thousands of euros for a group. There are some great packages for around ~1200 euro a person which include a ticket and locked sleeping pods with beds.

Global Journey Tickets include Full Madness passes as well as pre-arranged accommodations in surrounding towns like Brussels or Antwerp along with initial transport into the city from big global hubspots. This is what I purchased and my ticket included a train from London to Brussels, a hotel in Brussels near the main train station, and a daily shuttle to Boom. I will talk more about my Global Journey experience later on in the post.

All tickets are linked to your online account through which you will be loading up Pearls to, Tomorrowland’s payment system. Once you order your tickets, these will be shipped to your address in July. Living in the US, I had no problem receiving my shipment here.

Tomorrowland Logistics

Tomorrowland transportation

Unless you have the Global Journey package which arranges all your transport, you’ll need to plan for how to get to and from the festival. The festival grounds are in Boom which is located between Antwerp and Brussels.

From Brussels, you can take a train to Mechelen and then a bus from there to Boom. The bus stop is fairly close to the festival entrance but the whole commute takes about 1.5 hours. Otherwise, you can take a Bolt/Uber and the drive will be around 40 min. My recommendation would be to not stay in Brussels unless you have Global Journey.

From Antwerp, you can take a train but the walk from the Boom train station to the festival grounds takes 35 min and then another 30 min to get back to the city. The drive in a shared ride will take about 30 min but the pick up spot will also require some walking. Note that these shared rides will be VERY limited due to the volume of people.

Additionally, there are specific Tomorrowland shuttles in each surrounding city, but you’ll need to pre-book them and they’re usually sold out early as well.

Coming home from the festival also requires you to check whether your connections are running. The Tomorrowland page provides transport logistics closer to the festival as well so you can check if you can purchase a shuttle back if available.

Overall transport to and from Boom is not something you can save for late minute and you can’t wing it either. You need to know your options or you’ll be stuck in the middle of Boom in the middle of the night.

Tomorrowland accommodations

Dreamville is by far the best option in my opinion to experience Tomorrowland. Dreamville is located right on the festival grounds and gives you a unique experience of the festival. However, it is extremely hard to get this package so I would look into multiple options prior to attempting getting Dreamville.

Instead, start looking for Airbnbs or hotels in Boom, Antwerp or Mechelen for the easiest access to the festival way ahead of time. As mentioned above, I would not recommend staying in Brussels because public transport is not easy from there.

Antwerp will be a slightly better option and here are some choices for you:

Is the Tomorrowland Global Journey package worth it?

What does the Global Journey package include:

Global Journey was not my first choice as I really wanted to secure a Dreamville package. However, since everything sold out, I knew my only chance of getting tickets was getting a Global Journey package.

Was it worth it? Yes, I thought I was amazing but knowing what I know today, I would have done it a little differently than I did.

So if you don’t know what Global Journey is, it’s a package that includes:

• Transport on a train or plane to a nearby city like Antwerp or Brussels
• Hotel accommodations usually with breakfast
• Shuttles to and from Boom
• Full Madness Pass
• Invited Pre-Party on Thursday
• Tomorrowland Treasure Chest and Goodie Bag on arrival

Global Journey cost ranges based on when you buy it, the type of transport into Belgium, and accommodation type. We booked a 2-person package train from London-Brussels with two separate hotel rooms and paid ~1400 euros a person. While it seems like a steep price, everything the ticket includes is well-priced and we would have paid more or less the same booking it separately ourselves.

Global Journey experience

The organization and overall experience of Global Journey is excellent. We received all the instructions via email prior to the festival and at each point there were plenty of staff to help you out and assist with the next step.

Tip: If you do GJ, make sure to know the location of where to pick up your custom envelope with your shuttle passes. We missed the pick up at the London train station and had to last minute beg staff for assistance. Although we were lucky enough to get some help, this would have been a huge fuck up and a pain to get these replaced!

In Brussels we were greeted by a welcome band and where we picked up our goodie bags. Then we walked to the hotel where we had a special concierge with all the festival info who was there to answer any questions and walk us to the shuttles.

Another cool thing about Tomorrowland’s Global Journey is the Invited Experience on Thursday before the festival. This year it was at the Gare Maritime which is a stunning large industrial hall in Brussels. At Invited, there were several DJs playing, performers, food vendors along and some awesome drink bars. The best part was certainly the atmosphere and everyone getting super hyped for the upcoming weekend.

The cons of Global Journey

Although I would say that the overall Global Journey package was amazing and planned way better than what I would have planned myself, there is one major drawback of this option. This really surprised me as you’d think that something as big as Tomorrowland would have figured this out better than it did. Global Journey transportation into the festival is a major PITA.

There are only two shuttles per day included in your package: one that takes you to the festival at noon and one that returns you to Brussels after the festival. For the first day you should absolutely be there as early as you can but on day 2 and 3 you may want to sleep in a little. The journey from Brussels takes about 45 mins too so you have to account for travel time. If you miss the noon shuttle, you have to arrange your own transportation. There were some additional shuttles during the day but you needed to buy tickets for these and when we tried to, they were already sold out. So I’d say that having a couple more options of shuttles should absolutely be included in the package.

The second thing is the shuttle to get you home. It only leaves after the festival ends for the day which is 1am or midnight on the last day. I don’t think anyone leaves before that so the timing isn’t an issue, however, the bus station to get you back home is located 40 minutes away by foot from when you exit the festival. Exiting alone takes about 20 mins so you have to walk 1 hour to the bus and then take the 45 minute shuttle back. So in all, it takes about 2 hours to get back to Brussels each day.

What to pack for Tomorrowland

On to the next major item on your prep list. Packing for Tomorrowland is important. You’re going to a 3-day (4-day if Global Journey or Dreamville) festival so being prepared will make your experience a lot less stressful than scrambling last minute.

Here are some absolute essentials I would pack:

• Festival Outfits – More on that in the next section.
• Comfortable Day Pack – I got this one on Amazon and loved the anti-theft zipper which allowed me not to worry about being in crowds. And I personally don’t think you need a water pack as water is super affordable at the festival.
• Shoes – You will be doing a TON of walking so make sure to pack shoes you can survive in for the weekend. I am personally more comfortable in sandals than sneakers so I wore my Reef Slips all weekend without getting a single blister. Although not a conventional choice, my feet were in mint condition after 4 days of wearing these 12+ hours a day.
• Poncho – I cannot stress enough about how important this is. I personally did not pack one and on the last day when it started down pouring and the festival ran out of them, I was miserable. Belgium doesn’t have the best weather so I would not skip this at any cost.
• Evening Jacket – If the temperature is expected to drop at night, grab a jean or any other jacket to get you home. While the areas with crowds are warm, you will need to walk to your transfer home and the last thing you want to be in the middle of the night is cold!
• Recovery Items – Liquid IV, Salon Pas, Tylenol, Bandaids will be your best friends. My arm and neck muscles would be sore from dancing so much that a pain relief patch was necessary each day 🙂
• Flag – Since this is a very international festival, I would absolutely recommend bringing your country’s flag for the group shots or even some cool shots representing you!
• Power bank – You will be taking a ton of photos but you will also need to be in contact with your crew so a back up charger is a must.

What to wear to Tomorrowland

I’ve been going to festivals for a while and I watched the dress code change dramatically throughout the recent years. I personally don’t love the current trends in festival wear and I find that most of them lack creativity. Most people look very similar and nothing about these outfits stands out to me. If you go to festivals often, you know what I am talking about.

However, the good news about Tomorrowland is that you can wear whatever you soul desires! People dress from typical EDM style outfits, to creative costumes, to group themed ones to just simply wearing t-shirt/shorts. I would encourage you to get creative though rather opt-ing out for the safe option as it makes the experience a little more fun!

I was happy with my choice of outfits, a statement cat skirt, a feather top and a chill Sunday outfit but next year I know I want to get a little more creative. As mentioned before, my major regret is not taking the weather more seriously and not being prepared with a poncho. Being soaked from the rain for most of Sunday was truly a nightmare.

What will make or break your Tomorrowland experience

Another major thing to consider is who you want to go to Tomorrowland with. I was very fortunate to go with a person who was as equally excited to be there as me. We had similar expectations for how long to stay at the festival, which DJs to see and what the overall weekend would look like. Because we were on the same exact page for the festival, both of us had a wonderful time without any tension or conflict.

So when you’re planning on who to go with, make sure you have a conversation about the points I mention above. If there is a person in the group who wants to leave before the day ends or arrive only at night for the main sets, your experience might not be as smooth and you’ll spend a lot of your time irritated rather than fully immersed in the festival.

Your Guide to Tomorrowland

Now that you know everything to consider before the festival, let’s talk about what to expect when you get there. This complete Tomorrowland guide is meant to cover everything you need to know prior to attending the festival!

Tomorrowland Festival

Once you arrive via train, bus or car, you’ll have to cross three entry checkpoints. First one just checks if you have the proper bracelet, second is a bag check and third is the actual scan into the festival. Expect these take a little longer on the first day as everyone is getting acquainted to the flow. We waited about ~10-15 min at the last point to enter. Relatively speaking, that’s extremely impressive based on the amount of people there.

It’s hard describe how amazing the Tomorrowland experience actually is. If you’re into EDM, it is absolutely something you have to do at least once in your life. The production level is next level and the overall organization of the festival is by far the best I have seen anywhere.

The crowd energy is another level. Everyone is very respectful, excited to be there and just happy. The atmosphere alone should be the reason to go there.

The whole festival grounds is a one giant park with colorful installations, lights, performers and obviously stages. There are 14 stages (also one secret one), which bring different genres of EDM. They each have a unique theme and you should absolutely visit all of them. The Mainstage is the most grand and some other big ones include The Library, Freedom Stage or Rose Garden.

Pearls – Tomorrowland’s currency

If you want to buy anything at the festival, you will need to load up your bracelet prior to the festival. The conversion rate varies on the currency but to give you an idea, I loaded 100 euros and got 60 Pearls with a bonus. I ended up adding 25 euros on the last day as well but didn’t end up using it all. For my 3 days there, it was enough to feed me 2 meals a day and have ~3 beers per day.

How much you decide to load your bracelet with obviously depends on who much you’re planning to eat and drink there but remember that there are multiple top-off stations at the festival so you can always add more!

Food and drinks at Tomorrowland

There is an abundance of food choices at Tomorrowland at reasonable prices for what you get. Your choices of meals range from pizza, hot dogs, burgers, falafels to fancier meals in the Mesa Garden. A hot dog or burger is 6.75 pearls which is around 11 euro and that is filling enough for meal. A large beer is 3.75 pearls of 6 euro.

Compared to what you pay at American festivals, this was more than reasonable. The more fancy spots and beer gardens will cost ya more but it’s worth splurging for at least one of your meals.

How to plan your DJ line-up

The main reason why people love this festival is because it brings the most known DJs to one place. So imagine going to an amazing concert multiple times per day for the entire weekend! That’s how it feels to be at Tomorrowland.

Tomorrowland has an app which should be your best friend the entire weekend. Not only does it have the lineup but also a map with your current location to properly navigate yourself. You can create your own calendar of people that you want to see.

While the most known and mainstream DJs will be playing at Mainstage during evening hours, you want to make sure not to miss the day performances on the other stages but other major talent. You’ll also want to spend time at other stages as each is amazing in its own way!

When you’re planning who to see, you also need to consider the distance between the stages. For example, if you want to see a DJ at Freedom Stage at 4pm and then catch a set at the Mainstage at 5pm, consider that you’ll need a 15-20 min walk between the two. A lot of traffic at Tomorrowland goes one way only to control crowds, so you’ll need extra time to reach your stage.

Also Mainstage crowds start gathering 3-4 sets before the end of the day. So if you find yourself a spot at 9pm there, expect to stay until 1am 🙂

Random tips for Tomorrowland

• While you might be tempted to end your night everyday at the Mainstage, don’t be afraid to venture off to other stages for the last set at least one day of the festival.
• Bathrooms are abundant and actually decent throughout the festival.
• Have a meeting point for your group. There will be times where people want to go to the bathroom or see a set that no one else wants to. It’s ok to separate but make sure to have a time, and place to meet back up as well as a contingency plan if you lose each other.
• Surprisingly there is excellent cell service at the festival.
• Plan to come early (12/1pm) for at the very least one day of the weekend. Tomorrowland grounds are so cool and you don’t want to miss exploring them.
• There are random attractions like a tattoo parlor or a giant ferris wheel.
• You can nap on lawns, beer gardens or chill out areas.
• Push through! On a Sunday night you might be all out of energy but keep reminding yourself that this might be a once in a lifetime kinda deal. I almost gave up and left early Sunday but looking back I am so happy I didn’t.
• Front row or even lower level at Mainstage is not worth it. The lawn is where it’s at! You can see everything perfectly, dance without getting pushed and be able to exit comfortably for bathroom or drink!

Final Thoughts on Tomorrowland

I have only attended this festival once in 2023. I went with someone who attended before so I was lucky to have a guide and someone who knew all the tips and tricks to make our experience easier. However, if you’re a regular at this festival and you have other tips to add for all future attendees, make sure to leave a comment!

In this post, I will cover the logistics of visiting this gorgeous city but most importantly I will give you a plan for an awesome getaway for you and your girlfriends. With that, you won’t have to stress about planning, and instead, you can simply focus on enjoying a city that I know you’ll end up falling in love with!

In case you’re new here, know that I always base my itineraries on my own travels! So if I give you a plan, it means I have followed it or would have done it that way based on what I experienced at the destination. If you have a suggestion for a new restaurant or a hot tip, don’t forget to comment at the bottom of this post!

Looking for other ideas for the best weekends with your girlfriends? Check out my Miami Girls Weekend or Austin Guides for awesome itineraries!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

Let’s talk about some San Diego logistics

Transportation to and in San Diego

Getting there

Getting to San Diego is pretty straightforward. You have a pretty well-connected airport right outside the city from which can catch a quick ~15 min Uber to the center. If the Uber fare is surging out of control, you can always take the bus on route 992 which can connect you to the trolley, train stations or the city center.

If you’re already in California, take the Amtrak along the Coast. It’s an experience within itself as its a super scenic and comfortable ride. When traveling in the southern direction, make sure to sit on the right-hand side to get the best views of the coast. I paid a little extra for the first-class cabin. It was slightly more comfortable than coach and you got a snack box with an alcoholic beverage. That alone made it worth the extra price. But to set your expectations straight, remember this is still an old train first class and not the Emirates suite.

Moving around the city

San Diego has a nice public transport system so if you don’t want to spend money on Ubers, you’ll be able to get around on the buses or trolleys. You can walk some parts of the city but if you want to see most of the attractions, you will be not able to avoid driving.

Should you rent a car in San Diego?

If you’re just staying in the city, there is no need to rent a car. Looking for parking and the cost of the rental will not save you any money and it won’t make your life easier either. However, it might be worth considering a rental if you’re planning to take some day trips out of San Diego. Some popular spots include La Jolla or even Tijuana in Mexico which is located only an hour away.

Best time to visit San Diego

Although San Diego has decent weather throughout the year, the best time to visit will be May through September for the sunshine, beach time, and overall lively vibe. As with any peak season though, it will be expensive. I personally visited in April and loved the shoulder season vibe. It wasn’t too crowded and the weather was just perfect enough to explore without overheating. However, it would get a little chilly at night and I did not do any water-related activities.

Is San Diego expensive?

Yes, it is. I won’t even beat around the bush and tell you that you can avoid spending money. Just as most destinations in California, San Diego is pricey, especially in the city center.

From accommodations to drinks and food and visiting attractions, you’ll be spending $500-$800 per person for a weekend there unless you’re really sticking to a low budget.

Where to stay in San Diego

Depending on what the goal of the weekend is, that will determine where you stay. However, for first timers, here are some areas to consider.

• If the goal of your girl’s weekend in San Diego is to party, stay near Gaslamp.
• If you want to relax near the beach, stay near Ocean Beach.
• Coronado is an island super close to the city that will give you chill vibes and cool restaurants.
• Downtown will have the vibes of any downtown.
• Or even La Jolla (25 min from center) if you’re planning to do a lot of outdoor activities.

Is a weekend in San Diego enough time?

A weekend anywhere is never enough to truly get to know a destination however a weekend is sometimes all we got. San Diego has a ton of activities so I’d plan for a 3 day weekend. However, a quick Saturday/Sunday getaway will do the trick if you’re just planning to see the highlights! You certainly won’t be able to see everything and your schedule will be packed but it’s certainly do-able.

A Girls Weekend in San Diego Itinerary!

Day 1: Let your awesome girls’ trip to San Diego begin!

One of my favorite strategies for weekend trips is to always arrive on Friday afternoons. This way I can check into my accommodation, do some light exploring and get a full night sleep before the weekend ahead. I prefer this a lot more than arriving on Saturdays and losing half the day on check-in and travel. So with that, I say do your best to arrive in San Diego on check-in time Friday (early) afternoon to get your awesome San Diego girls’s trip going!

Late Lunch

Depending on where you’re staying in town, choose a place for a late lunch/early dinner vibe. My girlfriend and I stayed in the Gaslamp District so we found something nearby in the touristy area of San Diego. Food was delicious and it filled us up perfectly for the rest of the day.

Stroll along the waterfront

Right before sunset, head to the waterfront area near the Marina. It was a stunning place for golden hour and then for sunset. You can stroll along the promenade or grab a drink at one of the numerous waterfront spots. Watching the sunset along the boats is super cute!

We walked near the Seaport Village toward the Embarcadero. This area had a ton of shops, waterfront restaurants, park spaces and cool sculptures. If you like boat tours for dinner cruises, whale watching or speed jets, you can catch those from this area too. Another thing to do in this area is to catch some live music at the Randy Shell outdoor concert venue.

Gaslamp District Party Time

Now onto the best part, party time! A trip to San Diego will not be complete until you have spent some time walking through the Gaslamp District and grabbing a drink (or partying) in at least one of the bars on the “strip.” And especially if you’re spending a girls weekend in San Diego, this will be a fun activity of your stay! There are numerous places you can go to depending on the vibe you’re looking for.

If you’re a girl there will be a ton of promoters wandering the streets looking to get you into their club with a free drink pass. You have all different types of places in Gaslamp and way too many to name them all but to name some, there are clubs like Toro, F6IX, Parq and Oxford, a rooftop bar called Altitude, more low-key bars like The Tipsy Crow or Whiskey Girl. Honestly, I think the best way to explore Gaslamp is to go bar hopping and simply finding a place based on the vibe it has. But if you want a full list of what’s in the area, check out Gaslamp’s full list of all the bars and nightclubs.

Day 2: Sightseeing in full swing

Brunch in Little Italy

After a night in Gaslamp, you will need a solid brunch. I recommend having brunch in Little Italy which is a cute neighborhood in town to eat in and explore after. Here are some popular options in the area. If traveling in season, don’t forget your resys!

• Morning Glory – A popular breakfast/lunch place with cool decor
• Caffe Italia – A small cafe with breakfast food, coffee and gelato
• Farmers Table – Cool decor and extensive weekend brunch
• Parakeet Cafe – Healthy options for acai bowls, protein bowls or creative toasts
• Little Italy Food Hall – And if you’re traveling with a bunch of picky eaters, it might be a good idea to head to the foo hall with a ton of options for everyone!

Balboa Park

For the afternoon, head to Balboa Park to enjoy this beautiful and massive park. There are so many spaces and nooks there so pick 2-3 spots you want to see rather than trying to see them all. Here are some top spots to see in the park but note that there are many more than this:

• Botanical Building: A beautiful building (inside currently closed for construction) with a lily pond
• Japanese Friendship Garden: Has an entry fee but it’s a beautiful display of Japanese culture
• Alcazar Garden: A smaller space with Moorish accents
• San Diego Museum of Art: An art museum with impressive collections
• Spreckles Organ Pavillion: World’s largest outdoor pipe organ, free concerts on Sunday
• San Diego Zoo: If you’d like to spend your time with some animals
• Balboa Park Carousel: I personally love old carousels and this one is over 100 years old

Nightime activities

On day 2, treat yourself to a nice dinner. Places like Barbusa for some amazing Italian Born and Raised for high end steak or Top of the Market won’t disappoint. You can also venture out to the beautiful island of Coronado to places like Il Fornaio or Blue Water Grill for some waterfront night views.

If you’re up for night two of partying, head back to to Gaslamp and let your night continue!

Day 3: La Jolla and Old Town

La Jolla

Next on your itinerary is the famous La Jolla! It’s a quick 30 min ride from city center San Diego. There is so much to do in that area not to mention how beautiful it is. Start by exploring the La Jolla Cove, where you can admire the seals and sea lions sunbathing on the beach and rocks. I was so excited to spend time walking the stunning path admiring these lazy but super entertaining creatures! Walk all the way down to La Jolla Tide Pools as well where you’ll be able to see some cool sea creatures when as the name suggests, the tide is low.

Next, head over to Village of La Jolla for lunch and some shopping. Although popular and pricey, there are a couple of restaurants with stunning views of the ocean like Duke’s or George’s for example. The downtown area has many stores and boutiques you can explore as well.

If you want more outdoor time, make sure to visit Torrey Pines Natural Reserve. You can hike that area and get the most stunning views of the unique nature there right on the beach! It’s about 15-25 min drive from La Jolla but totally worth it!

Old Town

On your way back from La Jolla another fun things to do on your San Diego girls weekend itinerary is to stop in Old Town. The main touristy area is the Old Town Market which is full of stores and beautiful pieces. I got myself a nice hand painted vase from Mexico that is a centerpiece in my kitchen until this day. Additionally, there are some restaurants on site or food stands at which you can snag an elote or even a beer if you need an afternoon snack.

Back home 🙁

And just like that it’s time to wrap up your girls weekend in San Diego. There is nothing better than exploring this gem with your besties and I hope that you have the best weekend ever.

This is the itinerary I planned when I visited with my best friend but if you have any suggestions that you think would make this trip better, let me know in the comments!

A Delicious Jewish Food Tour in New York with Ultimate Food Tours!

Kasia Kalemba

July 18, 2023

Living in New Jersey/New York area spoils you rotten when it comes to experiencing good food. You get fantastic cuisine from almost every culture which sets your expectations high when it comes to any food activities. When I heard about Ultimate Food Tour’s Jewish Food Tour in New York, I was curious to check out…

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2 Days in Miami: A Unique Itinerary for a Quick Getaway

Kasia Kalemba

April 7, 2023

If you grew up on the East Coast, especially in the NJ/NY area, you are probably very familiar with Florida snowbirds. It’s a pretty standard migration route for those of us who need a seasonal reset and a serious vitamin D boost. I myself travel this route at least once per winter season. When I…

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Review: Little Italy and Chinatown Food Tour in NYC with Ahoy Tours!

Kasia Kalemba

February 10, 2023

The absolute best way to travel in any city is through food. In food, we can find hidden history, traditions, and each generation’s contributions. It’s also something that makes us remember distinctive things about other cultures more than a history book or a museum. For example, I had moose and reindeer meat in Sweden, unique…

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Awesome Ideas for Visiting Los Angeles for the First Time

Kasia Kalemba

November 16, 2022

You’ve seen it in movies, pictures, and all over social media. Visiting Los Angeles for the first time is an awesome experience no matter how popular this place is. You find yourself in front of the Hollywood Sign or driving along Pacific Coast Highway and life doesn’t feel real for a second. As someone who…

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An Awesome Maine Getaway: Portland, Bar Harbor and Acadia

Kasia Kalemba

November 4, 2022

One of the best things you can do on the East Coast during the fall is to explore New England during its most beautiful season of the area, fall! Nothing compares to the crispy air, changing leaf colors, local seafood, and just the most beautiful nature all around. I have visited Maine twice during this…

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A Perfect Itinerary for a 3-Day Austin Bachelorette Party

Kasia Kalemba

October 4, 2022

When my college bestie and bride-to-be said that she wanted her last single hoorah in Austin, I didn’t know it would end up as the perfect destination for a bachelorette trip. Although this city is no secret to these kinds of parties, planning it was not as straightforward as we expected. Everyone on the internet…

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Now let me tell you. If you want to eat some seriously delicious food, learn about local Jewish history, and spend time with an awesome host, this tour is just that!

In this post, I’ll take you on this Upper East Side Jewish Food Tour journey with me! I hope it inspires you to check out this unique NYC activity 🙂

A little bit on Ultimate Food Tour’s background

I gotta say, aside from my curiosity about the food and its history, I always love learning about how unique ideas were born. Rarely are cool things carefully planned and executed, often times they happen because of a random life circumstance that pushes us to do something different. That follows Scott’s baby, or Ultimate Food Tours, which started as hobby, turned an Airbnb experience, and now is a well-established NYC Food Tour company offering 4 amazing options through NYC’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Things born out of pure passion and interest often reflect that in the actual experience and that’s certainly how I felt listening to Scott. He walked us through the history of the food and the neighborhood all with a personal connection and passion radiating from him. He was very knowledgeable about the topic and genuinely excited to take you on this tour. There is such a difference in the quality of your time when your guide has his full heart in what he does!

And Some Quick Logistics about the Jewish Food Tour

• The tour starts on the Upper East Side and continues throughout it
• This is mostly an outdoor walking tour so wear comfy shoes and dress weather appropriate
• Yes, there will be bathroom stops along the route
• Don’t eat much prior to the tour and portions will keep you full so no need to book resys for after either!
• The cost of the Jewish Food Tour is $90 per person which is very standard for a food tour experience

Let’s go on a Jewish Food Tour in NYC!

Stop 1: Orwashers’ Bakery

What’s more iconic than a real NYC bagel with lox? Nothing, so it was only appropriate to start this awesome food tour with the most delicious bagel topped with cream cheese, lox, and some green onions. If you know me, you know I am very picky about my lox and I do not overhype anything subpar. But let me tell you, Orwashers nailed this!

In addition to the tasting itself, this is where our history of Jewish foods begins. We learned that traditionally this was a sandwich that in order to become appropriate with kosher customs, had to get “re-invented” a little. This combo was originally intended to have a herring addition but since salmon was more available and cheaper in NYC, that ended up being the winner. Who knew that this substitution would become such a staple! Since the Yiddish word for Lox is Laks, that’s where that name came from. Today, this iconic sandwich is something most New Yorkers enjoy for their weekend breakfast!

In addition to their amazing bagels, Orwashers also serves bread, pastries, and cakes! Make sure to grab a traditional rugelach cookie as well!

Stop 2: Schaller’s Stube Sausage Bar

For our next stop, we had some delicious New York hot dogs. But this wasn’t some simple hot dog from a street vendor, this was some next-level meat. A perfectly done hot dog in a pretzel bun with sauerkraut and mustard was the perfect next bite!

At first, I was surprised about how hot dogs can be tied into local Jewish history. But we learned about how the famous Hebrew National Dogs came into the market and how they are still one the most popular selling hot dogs around! They’re iconic slogan of answering to a “higher authority” got them national attention and was one of the first major kosher items to start selling in supermarkets.

We also learned about the kosher custom of eating meat vs. dairy and how kosher restaurant certifications come about. I absolutely love learning about the influence of cultures on food and especially the new inventions that come about in melting-pot cities like New York!

Stop 3: Pastrami Queen

Continuing on our tour, we headed over to Pastrami Queen. If you’re a New Yorker, a good pastrami sandwich is a staple in your diet. While some will argue that Katz’ has the best one in town, after trying Pastrami Queen, you might change your mind. This hole-in-the-wall spot does indeed serve an awesome sandwich that I will cross the Hudson River from Jersey to have again. Not only was the pastrami perfectly cured and seasoned, the rye bread (which comes from Orwashers Bakery!) perfectly complimented it as well.

Stop 4: William Greenberg Desserts

Last but not least, we stopped at William Greenberg Desserts for the one and only, Black and White Cookie! If you’re from this area, chances are you had dozens of these in your life. Although what appears to be a pretty simple cookie, it’s not as easy to find a well-made black and white as you’d imagine. This bakery did indeed nail this and it was the perfect way to end our Jewish Food Tour in New York.

As many black and white cookies as I enjoyed in my life, I had no idea it carried a Jewish-American history nor that it’s thought to have roots in Manhattan itself. It also carries some interesting stories related to the war! Who knew this simple classic cookie carries so much cultural importance!

Thoughts on the Jewish Food Tour in NYC

I personally love learning about cultures through their food. It’s especially fascinating in areas like New York City where multiple nationalities, religions, and customs all come together in search for a better life. With that, different combinations of origins along with substitutions for traditional ingredients created masterpieces like a lox bagel, a pastrami sandwich, a hot dog or even a cookie! While we may be eating these foods on a regular basis, learning about their origins makes each bite that more special.

Going on this Jewish Food Tour in New York with Scott’s Ultimate Food Tour was such an awesome weekend activity. I’d certainly recommend it if you’re looking for a unique thing to do in NYC! I loved it for its history, exploring the Upper East Side neighborhood in a different way, and most importantly the delicious food choices.

Whether you are a local like myself or someone visiting NYC for the first time, I’m confident you’ll enjoy this activity as much as I did!

And if the food stops on this route don’t necessarily go with your taste palette, Ultimate Food Tours has other routes in Chinatown, Times Square, and their Iconic Food Tour throughout the city.

I want to thank Scott for inviting me and my guest to spend the day with him! The opinions in this post are my own!

In this post, I will walk you through what an experience at this Korean bath house looks like and hopefully get you to take the much-needed day that you’ve been putting off for so long!

Logistics of visiting SoJo Spa in Edgewater, NJ

Before we dive into the details of what the SoJo Spa experience entails, let’s go over some useful information for your visit. This section will give you more clarity on how to get there, what to bring, and what your day will look like taking away the stress of the unknown.

How to get to SoJo Spa

SoJo Spa is located in Edgewater, New Jersey. Before any NY visitors come at me and say that they’re not crossing the river to get there, I’m going to let you in on a little secret … NJ is awesome and you should absolutely cross the river 🙂 And I’m not just saying that because Jersey is my home but because we do have some good places here.

Don’t believe me? Check out my other New Jersey guides for some cool ideas for your next visit!

If you’re staying in NYC, getting to SoJo Spa is super easy (certainly easier than getting to Brooklyn 😉 ). You can easily take the 158 Bus from Port Authority Gate 202. It should take you there in under 30 min. Or alternatively, you can also catch a ferry to either Edgewater or Weehawken and grab that same 158 bus that runs along River Rd. Or if public transport isn’t your thing, simply catch a quick Uber across the bridge or the tunnel.

If you live in Jersey, SoJo Spa is located at 660 River Road in Edgewater. It has complimentary self-parking or a $15 valet option.

The best time to visit SoJo Spa

I have personally visited the Spa during every season and while I love the summers for the sunny and warm weather, visiting SoJo is just as good in the winter. There is nothing like the drastic difference between the crispy cold air and taking a hot steam bath. SoJo does an excellent job with creating seasonal outdoor set-ups to keep you away from the cold.

One major thing I recommend is to visit the spa right at opening. SoJo is an amazing place which made it quite a popular spot in the area. If you visit mid-day on the weekends, you will certainly not be the only guest there. However, if you visit at 9 am sharp, especially on a weekday, you can even have the amenities all to yourself! And yes, I had the whole infinity pool to myself during one of my 9 am visits 🙂

How much time do you need there

SoJo Spa is open from 9 am to 9:30 pm. At the very minimum, you’ll need 2-3 hours to experience all the spa has to offer. However, if your goal is to lounge and forget about your responsibilities for a while, allocate 5-6 hours there. If you want, you can even spend your entire day there as well!

For remote workers or digital nomads, there are areas where you can work as well if you want to combine some business and pleasure during your visit or if you’re “working” remotely for the day 😉

What to bring to SoJo Spa

First and foremost, bring your ID as they will need to confirm your age. The spa is 18+ as well so anyone younger will not be able to enter.

Upon your visit, you’ll be provided with a towel, robe, and toiletries to use in the Bath House, so you’ll only need to bring a bathing suit. They also have hairdryers if you want to get ready for your next activity there.

The spa is a shoe-free facility indoors and optional flip-flops/sandals outside. If walking barefoot grosses you out, you can bring socks to wear inside and sandals for outside. I will say though that the spa is spotless so that will really not be necessary. If for some reason you forget to pack a bathing suit, they sell very reasonably priced ones in the bathhouses as well!

You cannot bring food or alcohol either. Your bag gets searched upon entry so any food or beverages will be held with security until you check out.

How much does SoJo Spa cost

The cost of daily admission varies by the day but generally expect it to be between $125-$145 a pass. It’s certainly not a cheap activity but for what you get, I certainly think it’s a fair price. Treatments like scrubs or massages are not included and if you purchase those, you’ll get 2-hour admission to the facilities after.

When you purchase a pass, you’ll have a specific hour to enter and you will not be let in before or after that hour window. Although the website states that the reservations are recommended, I would without a doubt make one as it is a pretty popular spot and if they’re at capacity, you won’t be getting in!

Photos at SoJo Spa

Instagram or it didn’t happen right?! SoJo knew that it is a super beautiful spot and you’ll want to take a ton of photos so it did something super simple yet so convenient. Near every pool or sauna, you’ll find mini lockers in which you can leave your phone after you snap some of your favorite shots.

That gives you the freedom to bring your phone around without the need to run back and forth to the main locker room or worry about watching it from afar. You can take photos all over the facilities excluding the bathhouses or the saunas for obvious reasons.

The SoJo Spa Experience & Amenities

Why do I think that SoJo is one of the best New Jersey spas? Because I have yet to find another location to offer as many amenities, views, food, and treatments as SoJo Spa does.

Now, let me walk you through what your experience will look like and what you can expect there.

Arrival at SoJo Spa

Once you arrive within your reservation window (one-hour time slot), you’ll check in at the counter, show your ID and sign the necessary waivers. You’ll receive a bracelet that will be both, your key to your lockers, as well as your method of payment. Upon check-out, you will use a service kiosk to pay for whatever you purchased on your bracelet during your visit.

You’ll walk over to the shoe lockers where you’ll leave your outside shoes and then take the elevator to the 4th floor to the Female or Male locker rooms. In the locker rooms, you’ll be given a robe, towel, and your own personal locker. You can change by the lockers or if you prefer privacy in one of the changing rooms.

The gender-separated Bath Houses give you the privacy for a shower and the ability to go into clothes-optional soak baths and steam rooms. The steam room in the bathhouse is one of my favorites as it really makes you get your sweat on and breathe in some hot steam to clear your lungs!

Infinity Pool and Rooftop Lounge

Let’s just jump to the eye-catching amenity of SoJo Spa Club, its infinity pool with breathtaking views of Manhattan. I LOVE this viewpoint as there aren’t that many (if any to be honest) places offering this kind of view along with swimming in an infinity pool.

Pro Tip: If you arrive at the opening, the pool will be such an oasis as it’s the least crowded time of the day. However, if you cannot do the opening time, I also suggest an early evening slot that will give you an amazing golden hour or sunset view!

Don’t forget the Rooftop Lounge located a floor above the Infinity Pool from which not only will you have amazing views, but where you can also snag a quiet space to get your tan on or nap in 🙂

Foot Massage Path and Hydrotherapy Pool

Back on the 4th floor, you’ll find the Foot Massage Path which is a short walk and a perfect way to get your senses going. Take your time as you can certainly feel the rocks against your feet 🙂 After the path, you’ll find the Hydrotherapy Pool which consists of many stations to hydromassage various parts of your body with very powerful jets. If you’re like me and are holding some tension in your back and shoulders, don’t miss the back massager jets. It will get rid of all your stress in less than a minute!

Outdoor Baths at SoJo Spa

Having been to a handful of spas in the area, the baths alone at SoJo, put this spa in the best New Jersey spas category. Again, there is really nothing like this around and I always make sure to spend a good amount of time getting my soak on. They’re located on the 4th floor, right around the corner from the Hydrotherapy Pools and the Foot Massage Path.

The Silk Bath is a micro-bubble bath with the goal to improve skin elasticity. The Carbon-Rich Bath has a high concentration of CO2 which is supposed to increase circulation. Don’t panic when your skins turn a little pink as it’s just increased blood flow to your skin. Lastly, tucked away in a perfect peaceful corner, you’ll find the Hinoki Bath, which is a unique bath on a smooth cedar wood surface. Since these baths are pretty hot, you might need a quick cool reset which can be done in the Waterfall wall right in the back.

Saunas at SoJo Spa

I love saunas so I’m happy that SoJo Spa has quite an abundance of them. You can choose from Himalayan Salt, Charcoal, Red Clay, White Clay, Infrared, Dry, or Steam Room Saunas. They’re outside, inside, and in the bathhouses. Personally, I really like the Himalayan Salt one and the Steam Room in the Bath House but having tried ALL the saunas, they’re all pretty great. After you sweat out all the stress from your body, don’t forget to close off your pores in the Ice Room!

I also recommend trying the Ganbanyoku Sauna which is a hot bedrock guaranteed to put your body in a state of relaxation. Its warm surface, dim lighting, and peaceful silence made me want to instantly nap. Similarly to that, there are also Hot Stone Beds with bright views of the Hudson.

Food at SoJo Spa

Do not forget to try the food at SoJo Spa! Not only is it very reasonably priced, but it is also super tasty! You have a variety of choices ranging from sandwiches, ramen, salads, pizzas, smoothies, and an outdoor grill in the summer. I ordered a little bit of everything to try and was certainly not disappointed. The meats were perfectly seasoned, the salad was super fresh and the smoothies gave me the exact boost I needed.

Seriously, do not pass on eating at SoJo Spa. You will not be disappointed! And you will need to refuel as the day goes on.

Additional amenities

In addition to all the pools, baths, and saunas, SoJo Spa offers a co-working space for all those who cannot escape their careers (but seriously, take your PTO people!), a fitness center to squeeze in a quick workout, and a relaxation room to rest your mind away from the daily stress.

SoJo also has a hotel on site which is open Friday through Sunday. A nightly rate includes a spa pass!

Treatments

Last but not least, if you’re in it to treat yourself, book a massage, a Volcanic Sand Bath Treatment, or a classic Korean Body Scrub that will have your skin feeling like a newborn baby. SoJo offers top-notch treatments only elevating your experience even more.

Is the SoJo Spa experience really worth it?

Having visited SoJo on 5 different occasions, they have yet to fail me. Not to mention, they have over 10k Google Reviews with 4.5 stars so they haven’t failed many either. That repeated quality certainly gets them my vote for being one of if not the best New Jersey spas. I love coming back because of all the amenities they offer, the excellent food they serve, and just the overall relaxation experience that I can find without having to travel far.

I hope you enjoyed this virtual tour of SoJo Spa through my eyes and that you will have your Perfect Day at SoJo Spa very soon 🙂

Disclaimer: I want to thank SoJo for hosting me and my guest during my most recent visit. However, I visited them on four other occasions and the quality has been consistent during each visit!

2 days in Miami might not seem like a lot of time but trust me that this itinerary will give you that small Miami boost that you need. This Miami 2 day itinerary is perfect not just for cold season travels but can be referenced all year round.

If you have more time in my favorite city, you can check out my full Miami guide or even my Miami to Key West one and if you’re traveling with your girlfriends, then check out the Miami Girls Weekend guide! Both offer unique ideas for visiting Miami and I am sure you will find something that aligns best with your upcoming trip.

I hope this itinerary will give you exactly what you need to have the perfect 2 days in Miami!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

Day 1: Brunch + Design District + Night Activity

But first, let’s Brunch

Brunch is an absolute must to start your Miami exploring. Some ideas for a good meal:

• Mandolin – Mediterranean food, located in Design District, cool Greek aesthetics 
• Cvi.Che 105 – Stylish Peruvian chain with a couple of locations in the city
• Kalamata – Another Mediterranean spot with high-quality fresh dishes
• Mila – A boujee MediterrAsian restaurant and rooftop lounge with a unique brunch
• Orange Blossom – A typical brunch spot. Make sure to check out the back patio.

Design District

The Design District is a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood that celebrates design, fashion, art, and architecture. It’s one of the fairly newer neighborhoods in Miami and I have to say it’s pretty impressive! In my previous guides, I always mentioned that this area was on my Miami to-do list and I’m happy to say that on my last visit, I got to explore it!

As you stroll through the Design District, you’ll be amazed by the stunning architecture that surrounds you. From the restored historic buildings to the modern structures designed by the world’s top architects, every corner is a feast for the eyes.

The Design District is also a shopper’s dream. From high-end luxury fashion brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, to independent boutiques and concept stores, you’ll at least indulge in some window shopping like myself. There are some restaurants on site too if you want to take a break from exploring!

Dinner Time

A nice dinner is a must in Miami and there is no shortage of places to have one. Here are some fresh options for you however if you’d like more, head over to the full Miami guide I mentioned earlier:

• Gitano: Have some good Mexican among gorgeous Tulum vibes
• Contessa: Old school Italian located in a modern Design District
• The Bazaar: Dine in Jose Aviles’ boujee Latin restaurant

Night out in Miami

If a 24-hour club in Miami or walking down Ocean Drive along with all the other tourists is the last thing you want to do on a night out, don’t worry, I have better choices for ya. Don’t get me wrong, you certainly have to experience the Miami classics as well but at a certain point you’ll want to try something new instead. I personally don’t want to club until 4 am anymore but still want to have a great night in Miami! So I’d recommend the following alternatives:

Viernes Culturales or Cultural Fridays is an event in Little Havana that takes place every third Friday of the month starting at noon. There will be music, dancing, local artisans, good food, and awesome drinks. Go at night for a fun vibe and a very cute cultural experience. Even if you don’t happen to be in Miami on the third Friday of the month, Little Havana at night is a fun place to be!

Another unique option and totally opposite of a neighborhood party are events at Faena Hotel. If you don’t know Faena, it’s a super boujee hotel that most of us can’t afford to stay at. However, a drink or a show at night, although not cheap, are cool glimpses into Miami Luxury stays. Currently, you can see Allura Cabaret on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at the Faena Theater! In addition to the show, they have live music events along with some rotating shows. Dress to impress and enjoy a nice night out!

Day 2: Beach + Exploring + Activity

Beach time

Do not forget to schedule beach time into your 2 days in Miami! It would honestly be a sin not to take a nice stroll along the beautiful coast or to lay out and soak in the sun for a little bit. The beach hugs Miami on the east side and most of it is public. You can rent chairs at pretty much any point and a lot of hotels have some sort of beach chair arrangement.

On my most recent stay, I stayed in my new favorite Miami hotel, The Confidante, and I enjoyed the beach in that area. I also spent the morning soaking up the sun and swimming in a heated pool.

Afternoon Exploring

Before you explore, don’t forget to grab a bite. If you don’t want a formal sit down, a good place for a quick but delicious bite is the TimeOut Market. Although they’re pretty touristy, I do enjoy them because they do a good job of gathering the local specialties in a nicely situated place where you can also grab a decent afternoon cocktail!

Now back to exploring. Miami has a ton of exciting neighborhoods which I go into detail about in my full Miami guide. However, here’s a quick recap on some:

• Wynwood – What started as a hipster neighborhood with funky murals, coffee shops, and industrial vibes turned into a highly desired living area with $20 drinks. Nonetheless, a visit is well worth it and if you don’t want to spend too much, stop at a brewery like Veza Sur or Cerveceria La Tropical.
• Little Havana – Always a favorite of mine to grab a fresh Mojito and enjoy the Cuban vibes.
• South Beach – The most touristy yet iconic part of Miami with Art Deco buildings, and streets like Ocean Drive, Collins Ave or Espanola Way.
• Brickell – Financial area of Miami with high rises and drink spots on rooftops.
• Coral Gables – A boujee neighborhood with shopping, tree-lined streets, mansions and the famous Venetian Pool.

or some cool Miami activities …

If you’ve been to Miami a couple of times already or if you’re looking for something outside out of the most touristy spots, here are some ideas for unique Miami things to do:

Miami Nature Activities

Miami has some awesome nature spots that people often forget to check out. If you’d like to check out some unique vegetation, head over to Miami Beach Botanical Garden in South Beach, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden or The Kampong both in Coral Gables.

You can also do a classic Everglades tour on an airboat! Some tours pick you up from Miami while others are located in the Everglades National Park.

Tour ideas

Another fun thing you can do is check out some of the local tours. These are pretty unique and give you a totally new perspective on the city! I always recommend a good boat day but there are many more things to do in Miami. Here is a list of cool activities I found with some top-rated reviews!

That’s a wrap on 2 days in Miami!

Miami is truly one of my favorite cities around. Even a quick 2-day getaway gets me the Miami boost I desperately need. Whether it’s your 1st or 20th time in Miami, this city’s vibe is really unmatched. And while you can totally spend the entire 2 days in Miami on a beach, or boat, or sipping drinks by the pool, if you’re an explorer like myself, I hope this guide gave you some new ideas for your upcoming trip!

Don’t forget to check out my Miami to Key West itinerary! Key West truly feels like another country and is a really iconic place to visit in your lifetime.

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When I visit new cities, I simply love doing food tours! But when Ahoy NYC Food Tours invited me on a tour in my own neighborhood, I didn’t know what to expect. I mean, a Little Italy and Chinatown food tour in NYC? I’ve eaten in these areas dozens of times so how could I possibly discover new things?

Well, spoiler alert. Ahoy Food Tours killed it! Not only did I eat some amazing Asian and Italian food but also learned about their shared immigrant history and saw some cool new spots in both neighborhoods. It’s safe to say that even when you think you’ve seen it all, you can ALWAYS find hidden gems in your own neighborhoods! You can have a Perfect Day right around the corner.

In this review, I will share some general information about the NYC Little Italy and Chinatown Food Tour along with an overview of the food we tasted.

At the bottom of this post, you’ll find a discount code for Ahoy Food Tours that you use when booking!

Let’s Start with Some Useful Info

Ahoy Food Tours has been around for a while, since 2008 to be exact. Each tour consists of a small group of up to 13 people. Their most popular public tour is the Little Italy and Chinatown Food Tour in NYC but they also have another multicultural one on Mulberry Street. They also offer private and corporate events. Prices are pretty average for a food tour compared to local companies.

Our tour guide Maryana was amazing. She was super knowledgeable about the neighborhoods, history, and food of course. We really enjoyed her expertise!

Dietary Accommodations

Food tours and dietary restrictions don’t always go hand in hand. Previously I attended a food tour in another city where a company listed that they accommodate a specific food allergy. In practice, that accommodation ended up being a total failure and the tour ended up a dud for our group then.

My guest on Ahoy’s Food Tour was vegetarian so we knew that she wouldn’t be able to taste everything. But what pleasantly surprised us is that in every spot which included a meat bite, the tour had prepared a substitute delicious veggie tasting for her. Each accommodation is different but if you’re a vegetarian, don’t worry about missing out! They do a great job with substitutions!

Overall Itinerary

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, there are 8 tastings with one alcoholic beverage included. You will certainly feel full after the tour as the portions are generous (for a food tour of course).

You’ll be walking for about half a mile outside so dress accordingly to NYC seasonal weather. During the stops outside, you’ll learn about the Chinese Exclusion Act, the tenements of the area, the dark history of Chinatown, and the immigrant history of Little Italy. As an immigrant myself, this was a very interesting portion of the tour. It shows how the people and history shaped the area along with the food and how much struggle they went through in hopes of a better life in this country.

Tasting Stop Overview

• At our meeting spot, we enjoyed hot tea and a pork bun
• Then we had some dumplings
• Next was a Chinese sponge cake
• Then a fresh mozzarella with prosciutto
• And some gnocchi with amazing marinara sauce
• Next was a cheese sampling from a famous cheese shop
• My favorite was the following sit-down stop with eggplant rollatini and a cold beer
• And lastly, we had cannoli to end on a perfect sweet tooth!

I was so full at the end and so happy with all the delicious tastings. There truly wasn’t a bad meal on this Little Italy and Chinatown food tour in NYC.

Now let’s dive a little more into each tasting!

Tasting 1: Tea Tasting with a Chinese Pastry

Our tour started at Silk Road Cafe for our first tasting of Jasmine Tea. It was served in cute little glasses and we let it seep while we settled in and got our introduction to the tour. Our tour guide explained the importance of balance within traditional Chinese cuisine. We sipped our tea and enjoyed her explanation of herbal concoctions throughout history.

Next was an insanely delicious pork bun (and taro bun for my vegetarian friend) from Fay Da Bakery. The slightly sweet bread along with the salty and perfectly seasoned pork was a perfect combo. The taro bun had a combination of sweetness with floral undertones, and almond slices on top were a great touch. I could have easily eaten two more!

Tasting 2: Dumplings

Next, we headed over to Tasty Dumplings for some meat dumplings! Dumplings to me are always fascinating since most cultures in the world figured out their unique way of stuffing their favorite ingredients in a form of a dough pocket. For example, Eastern Europeans have pierogis, South Americans have empanadas, Italians have ravioli and Asians have dumplings! In essence these are allt’s the same food, yet they are all so different to each culture.

Back to Tasty Dumplings though, don’t let this hole-in-a-wall fool you with its simple appearance. The dumplings were superb!

Tasting 3: Spongecake

We enjoyed our next tasting which was a (purple) spongecake from Kam Hing Coffee Shop while listening to some interesting history behind Doyers Street. It’s quite wild yet fascinating and I won’t spoil it for you because it’s just one of those stories you’ll have to hear about in person. For a tad more suspense, I also won’t tell you the ingredient that makes the spongecake purple. I’ll save that detail for your tour too.

Tasting 4: Fresh Homemade Mozzarella wrapped in Prosciutto

After our Chinatown tour stops, we headed over to Little Italy. Personally, I have eaten many meals there and attended (my favorite) San Gennaro Feast! I love the food in that area so I was very excited about discovering some new gems!

Our first location in Little Italy was Alleva Dairy, which is the oldest cheese shop in America. Upon entering the shop, you could immediately smell the delicious scents of authentic Italian deli. We sampled homemade mozzarella wrapped in prosciutto (or if you’re from Jersey like me then call it mutz) 🙂 Since the cheese was unsalted, the cured prosciutto beautifully complimented it!

Tasting 5: Fresh Pasta

Our next bite was pasta in tomato sauce at Piemonte Ravioli. It was a small pasta store that sells pasta to very popular clients! I expected the sauce to be salty, however to my surprise, it had a slightly sweet aftertaste. We learned that it’s the tomatoes that give it that distinctive taste.

Tasting 6: Imported Cheeses and Olives

You can NEVER ever have enough cheese so when we arrived at Di Palo’s Fine Foods and tasted some Piave (cow milk) and Moliterno (sheep milk), my soul was super happy. Not only was the cheese amazing, but the store itself is such an institution. Their imported foods are impressive, I mean check out these cheese wheels!

Tasting 7: Eggplant Rollatini

Benito One was our sit-down spot where we had some Eggplant Rollatini along with an alcoholic beverage of our choice. The rollatini was probably my favorite meal out of the tour since I am a sucker for some good Italian!

The restaurant itself was such an interesting place and I am certainly planning to come back for a full dinner soon with my family.

Depending on the tour, the sit-down locations vary between this one and having Dim Sum at Nom Wah Tea Parlor.

Tasting 8: Cannoli

Last but not least, we ended the tour with the perfect sweet tooth treat, a pistachio cannoli! Normally the tour does this tasting at Ferrara Bakery, which I LOVE dearly, however, it was closed on the day we did the tour.

Is Ahoy’s Little Italy and Chinatown Food Tour in NYC worth it?

Yes it is. As someone who has done a dozen of food tours, I have to say I really enjoyed Ahoy’s Food Tour. All the tastings were delicious and it was great to learn some interesting neighborhood history along with it. The food portions and picks were great, our tour guide really knew her stuff, and it was a great afternoon activity to do with my best friend.

Ahoy was generous to share this discount code for Perfect Day readers so you guys can save some $$. Visit their website for the tour schedule.

USE CODE PDSAHNY TO SAVE 20% OFF AHOY FOOD TOURS!

If you’re a fan of food tours, you’ll like this one. If you’ve never done one, Ahoy will set the bar high!

I am thankful to Ahoy’s team for the invite and I assure you that this is a truly honest and independent opinion about it.