Packing for a 14 Day Trip to Iceland, Scotland, Denmark and Sweden

Hi Friends!

To start out this post I just want to say that this is a very specific packing list for the trip that we took! We did three days in Iceland, then we did an eight day cruise and once the cruise was done, we spent three days exploring Copenhagen and Sweden. This packing list isn’t going to be for everybody, but if you are taking a trip similar to what we did, this will be very helpful for you! I’m going to start off by sharing my general packing list and then when I was packing for myself, I broke it down specifically to each day because I had limited space in what I could bring so I wanted to make sure that everything would fit. I will also share the broken down version of the things that I packed for myself each day based on the activities that we were doing. Lastly, I am also going to share a few things that I didn’t pack that I wish I would have brought! This might be extensive so I hope this helps even just one person!

These things that are in the graphic below are the clothing specifics that I packed for the colder weather in Iceland. Also I should add that not only was it cold, but it was very wet which is very normal! I also used these things here and there in different locations but these were to keep me warm and dry during our Iceland portion.

| Black Joggers | 2 Pack Base Layer Long Sleeves | Black Leggings | Grey Jumper |

| Black Waterproof Gloves | Waterproof Duck Boots | Wool Socks | Rain Jacket |

| Waterproof Hiking Rain Pants |

General Packing List

Days and Destinations

Day One - Plane/Iceland

I kept it comfortable and casual on the travel days because let’s be honest, those are exhausting and the last thing I want to be wearing is something restricting like jeans! I got this jumpsuit from Amazon and I ended up wearing it a lot while on the trip.

Day Nine - Inverness, Scotland

Day Outfit

Dinner Outfit

    • For dinner this night I ended up just staying in what I wore earlier in the day out in Inverness. We got back to the boat later than usual and decided to play cards and have a low-key dinner in the casual dining area.

Emergency Kit Supplies

This kit is for more than just sea sickness so if you're setting sail on the open seas or embarking on a river cruise, it's important to be prepared for any emergency that may arise. After being on a handful of different cruise lines I have come to a few conclusions, one being the medicines that they do sell are pricey in the gift shops. This is probably obvious but I am not a doctor and anything you plan to take should be run by a professional prior to taking it! These are the things that I came up with that are my/our must-have essentials for a cruise emergency first aid kit. Hopefully you can be fully prepared for any situation that may arise during your own vacations!

| Emergen-C | DayQuil | NyQuil | Allergy Medicine | Tampons/Pads | Midol | Bandaids |

| Antibiotic Ointment | Hand Sanitizer | Ibuprofen | Tylenol | Liquid IV | Sunscreen | Aloe |

| Tide To Go Pen | Dramamine | Safety Pins | Tweezers | Tums |

Again, I know that was a lot of information and this post isn’t going to be for everybody, but when we were prepping for this trip, it was almost impossible to find a packing list for exactly what we were doing, and I wanted to make sure that anybody doing a trip like this in the future would have a little bit more help than we did! Keep in mind we were there in June and it was still chilly in most of the locations that we visited! If you have any questions at all, I am more than happy to answer those for you! You can drop a comment below or you can email me at tarynintotravel@gmail.com and I will get back to you as soon as possible!

Much Love, 

Emma

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Gluten Free In Reykjavik Iceland

Hi Friends!

Usually I am a big planner in terms of food on vacation and this is mostly just because I am so scared with my allergy of not having something to eat or causing problems with whatever group I am in. It sucks when you’re hungry and wandering around trying to find food that won’t make me sick. All that said, I didn’t plan ANYTHING in terms of food for this trip. It just totally slipped my mind. While we were there we didn’t eat out much very much. We stopped at grocery stores and then mostly cooked food at our Airbnbs! There were a few places we did eat out though and I wanted to share those with you guys below!

Where to Eat Gluten Free in Reykjavik, Iceland

Krua Thai Restaurant - We were visiting Rainbow Road and the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church right around lunch time and we were so happy to stumble into the yummiest food we had in Iceland! They had a lot of gluten free options and the waiter was very knowledgeable of my gluten allergy. I honestly think that our waiter was the owner as well but nonetheless, knowledgeable! I decided to get the Pad Thai and I added chicken, it was SO good! We were also able to get whatever spice level that we wanted. Dustin got the chicken Kuayda Pad with rice and it was like a red curry. It was also able to be made gluten free! The portions were huge and I ended up taking about half of mine to go for later, side note, it reheated well!

Indulge in delicious gluten free meals at top-rated restaurants in Reykjavik Iceland. Plan your trip with our guide to the best gluten free options in the city.
Indulge in delicious gluten free meals at top-rated restaurants in Reykjavik Iceland. Plan your trip with our guide to the best gluten free options in the city.

Coffee shop in Penninn - We went in to browse the bookstore and grabbed a coffee while we were in there. The bookstore was so cute and had so many options book wise. I know it was the middle of June when we were there but Dustin and I both got a pumpkin spiced latte and it really just hit the spot! It was so good, not too sweet, so good!

Rost Reykjavik - This was a coffee shop that was closer to the cruise port but we stopped here for breakfast before we got onto our ship! To eat I got the hot ham and cheese on gluten free bread, it was good! Dustin got one of their specials that was specific to that day but it was out of his comfort zone and he still loved it. To drink I got the one of their special lattes that was being advertised on the chalk board but it had like caramel popcorn on top and was so good! It was definitely more of a sweet treat rather than a regular coffee situation! Dustin just had a latte and liked that as well!

Indulge in delicious gluten free meals at top-rated restaurants in Reykjavik Iceland. Plan your trip with our guide to the best gluten free options in the city.
Indulge in delicious gluten free meals at top-rated restaurants in Reykjavik Iceland. Plan your trip with our guide to the best gluten free options in the city.
Indulge in delicious gluten free meals at top-rated restaurants in Reykjavik Iceland. Plan your trip with our guide to the best gluten free options in the city.
Indulge in delicious gluten free meals at top-rated restaurants in Reykjavik Iceland. Plan your trip with our guide to the best gluten free options in the city.

Like I said, we were only there for a few days and we did eat in our Airbnbs for the most part but we did eat and get coffee at a few good spots! Have you eaten at any of these spots? I can’t recommend the Krua, the Thai restaurant enough and it is right next to rainbow road. Definitely worth the spot! Let me know if you eat at any of these spots! If you have any questions you can comment below or as always you can send me an email at tarynintotravel@gmail.com and I will get back to you as soon as possible!

Much Love, 

Emma

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Spend A Day In Kirkwall, Scotland

Hi Friends!

Kirkwall was our first port stop in Scotland and I loved this day so much! As I was writing this blog post I realized that pretty much everything we did when we were in Kirkwall was something that we stumbled upon while walking around. There was a mixup with getting off the ship so we had literally like two hours to kill while waiting for my parents to get off and by the time we met up with them we wandered some more! We had the best day though, we wandered into coffee shops, thrift stores, castles, libraries, museums, restaurants, gift shops, churches and so much more and it was just the best most relaxing day considering nothing in the morning went to plan. But we had about 6 hours to spend wandering the city and it feels like we walked and explored SO much in that small amount of time!

A Few Things to Have on Hand!

  1. Rain Jacket

  2. Umbrella

  3. Backpack for purchases

  4. Camera or Phone for pictures

  5. LAYERS! I was so thankful that I had a rain jacket, a sweatshirt and a t-shirt on because I shed and added layers all day long!

Where to Stop!

Welcome center - Usually I wouldn’t suggest a welcome center as a place that you probably want to check out when you are visiting somewhere new but the welcome center in Kirkwall was so helpful. The staff were so knowledgeable and happy to help us with questions about maps, locations of attractions, spots to eat, shopping, bus schedules, wifi locations and so much more. Another perk of the welcome center was that it was also a very cute gift shop with actually cute items to purchase! We stopped there at the beginning of the day and also on the way out just to look at last minute souvenirs!

Archive Coffee Shop - We stopped in here to get coffee and use their wifi for a few minutes to check on where my parents were and I am so glad we stopped because it was the cutest little coffee shop. We both got lattes and they were good! They also had a food menu but we weren’t eating. A great place to stop for a pick me up and to check on missed messages if you didn’t have service there like us! Haha

Kirkwall Library and Archive - Another place that I wouldn’t usually add to a list of places to visit when you are in a new city is a library but it was such a cool place to check out. It was raining right when we got into Kirkwall and we decided to go in the library just to see what it was like. But it was so fun! There was free wifi, bathrooms and they actually had books for sale. I needed up getting a few to use as decor and coffee table books for home. I would definitely suggest going into the library, even for just a few minutes!

Bishop’s and Earl’s Palace - Another place we stumbled upon was this old-timey castle palace thing which was SO cool to see inside of. It was like a medieval looking building and it was right next to the St Magnus Cathedral. It was dated all the way back to 1263 and it was just so interesting to see and imagine how life was lived inside the building. We spent maybe like 25 minutes here but if you are taking a guided tour I could see you spending more time and getting a ton more information. I would absolutely recommend checking out this spot!

The Orkney Museum - We didn’t plan to stop in here but we walked by it while we were exploring and the door said free so we figured we had nothing to loose! The museum was fairly small but it had information on the history of Orkney all the way back to the Stone Age. There were things to look at from the Vikings all the way until present day. I’m glad we stumbled upon it and went in. They also had restrooms that were available to use and another cute gift shop at the end of exploring.

St Magnus Cathedral - We went in here once we met up with my parents and it was so pretty inside. It was raining pretty hard at this point so we were happy to be inside but it was so neat to just learn a little more about this cathedral. Some of the dates that we were reading were just so interesting, some dated back to the 11th century. Also the stained glass was just incredible! It didn’t take us too long to walk through but it was absolutely worth the stop for us.

Harbour Fry Fish & Chips - I was SO happy to stumble upon this restaurant. It was on the main strip of shops and as you can see below, it literally said “ask about our gluten free options” and WOW was it yummy! The inside was small but like a fast paced diner almost. We ended up sharing a table with a couple and their Australian shepherd (some of you probably know we have two Aussies at home!!) and had the best time. It was great conversation with locals and was honestly the highlight of our day. The fish was crispy and delicious and 10/10 recommend eating here if you are visiting! Plus the staff was SO friendly! I can’t say enough good things about this spot!

There were also lots of other shops along the main walkway including the cutest book shop that had so much to choose from. There was also a fun record store that we spent way too much time in! The record store also had things like legos, games, puzzles, it reminded me sort of like a game stop with fewer video games. There were also so many thrift stores that we wandered into. We went to like three or four different ones and I got a couple of cute paintings that now live in my house. I liked being able to get things for the house that weren’t from a gift shop but there is like a history to those items! Other than that there were lots of stores that had souvenirs and gifts that we loved. OH and there was an art fair that was cute to walk through. My best advice would be to just go into places even if you think it might be something you wouldn’t usually stop at.

With only spending about half of a day here, as you can tell we were able to fit so many things in and had a great day! If we had a little bit more time we probably would have ventured out and did some things outside of the city. But that just means we need to visit again for a longer amount of time! I could absolutely see us visiting Scotland again in the near future! Have you been to Scotland? What was your favorite part when you were there? As always, if you have any questions at all, please comment below or send me an email at tarynintotravel@gmail.com and I will get back to you asap!

Much Love, 

Emma

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Gluten Free In New York City

Hi Friends!

www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York

Dustin and I have been to New York City a couple of times together but the last trip we did was the first time I had a gluten allergy so we definitely had to scope out the best food we could find while we were there! New York City had a ton of options to choose from and I wanted to make sure that they were all in one spot for you guys to reference when you need it! There is nothing worse than going to a new city and not knowing what you are going to be able to eat when you have an allergy. I wanted to make sure that I noted all of the restaurants that we went to not just the good spots, because then you know what you are getting yourself into before going there and getting disappointed. Honestly there weren’t really any terrible places that we tried but I will note all of that below in the reviews/what I ordered and that sort of thing!

Where to Eat Gluten Free in New York City:

New York Restaurants

www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York

Don Antonio - I think for anyone visiting New York City, one of the things on your food bucket list is pizza and if you are gluten-free then you might be worried that there won’t be any options for you to have when you are there.. don’t worry I had pizza a few times and Don Antonio was one of them. I ordered a gluten-free pizza quattro formaggi and Dustin ordered a regular pepperoni pizza. We both liked the pizzas and it was actually my favorite pizza that I had while I was there! Originally we were going to go to the restaurant and sit down but we ended up getting it on Door Dash because we were so cold (we visited in February)! 10/10 recommend!

Lilli + Loo - In Orlando, Chinese food that is gluten-free is so hard to find so when we were planning out New York Trip I looked for Chinese food and found this was one of the options that came up and it was near our hotel! We stopped in here the first day that we were in town and I got the pad Thai, it was so yummy! They had a pretty large gluten free menu that had dishes like lo mein, fried rice, noodle dishes, sushi and sashimi and so much more. The pad Thai was good, it just needed a little bit of spice which they gave me to add to the dish! We would definitely go back!

www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York
www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York

Friedman’s Restaurant - This restaurant is basically completely gluten-free and it was SO yummy! They have seven locations but we ate at the location that was in the Theater District. When we were there I had SUCH a hard time choosing what I was going to eat because it all sounded so good. I ended up going with the fried chicken sandwich and it was freakin awesome! So many other things sounded good, the vegetable pot stickers, the B.L.T.A, the Tuna Melt and the Mac n Cheese, so many options I don’t think we could have gone wrong! I also think that other locations had diffferent options because they all have different menus! Defiantly check it out if you are visiting!

Thep Thai - We ate here the last day we were in New York City and we had the best time! We were waiting for our flight so we ended up sitting there for about three hours eating and getting drinks. I was drinking the Dawn on Me which was like a mimosa and so good. Dustin was drinking the Hazy Baby which was a bourbon drink with spiced cherry bitters and he really liked them. For food I got the pad Thai and so did Dustin, we both liked it! The appetizer that is in the photo wasn’t gluten free, they were crab rangoons and Dustin said they were really good. We loved this little restaurant and would go back when we are visiting New York City.

www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York
www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York

Schnippers - This restaurant had so many options and a whole gluten free menu! I was so excited to eat here and my food was delicious and didn’t disappoint. I got the gluten-free fried buffalo chicken sandwich and then a side of French fries with cheese sauce to dip them in. I wouldn’t call this restaurant like fast food but it was more of a fast paced place where you order at the counter and then go sit down and wait for your number to be called. I would compare it to like a McAllisters type of place. It was really good and I wish we had this place in Florida!

www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York
www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York

Tolache - This was a Mexican restaurant that we hadn’t planned on eating at but I am so glad we found it. When we were in New York on of our activities was to go see Wicked on broadway at the Gershwin Theater and this restaurant was right next door to the theater. In hindsight we should have made reservations but we were lucky enough to get in on Valentine’s Day! As an appetizer we got the mild guacamole which was yummy and then for my main meal I got the pescado tacos which were made Baja style with spicy jícama slaw and guacamole on corn tortillas… YUM! Dustin got the carne asada tacos with chipotle salsa, onions, cilantro and avocado! We both loved our meals!

Lunetta Pizza - This was the other pizza place that we ordered from and it was okay but it just wasn’t our favorite! We decided to just order one pizza so we ended up getting one gluten-free pepperoni pie as they called it on their website! I would say it was like a 4/10, I don’t even think we didn’t love it because of the crust I just think the sauce wasn’t for us! If you have had this pizza and liked it please tell us what to get next time! I never love bashing on gluten free options because they are so limited but this just wasn’t great!

www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York
www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York

Places that were on our list but didn’t have time for:

www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York
www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York

I wanted to add in a little bonus item for you guys. This New York City trip was Dustin’s Christmas present a couple of years ago and I made him an itinerary for our weekend! It’s not perfect and we didn’t do everything but I wanted to share it with you guys just in case you needed any inspiration for your upcoming New York trip! We just spent a long weekend there and had so much fun, you will find the itinerary below!

www.tarynintotravel.com | New York City Gluten Free Restaurants | GF in NYC | Gluten Free in New York City | GF Restaurants in New York

Like I mentioned before, Dustin and I have been to New York City twice together and then before that once on our own and I feel like we have tried many spots. Eating gluten-free in New York City was a fun challenge and we were pleasantly surprised with the options we had to choose from! If you have any questions at all, please comment below or you can always send me an email at tarynintotravel@gmail.com and I will get back to you as soon as possible!

Much Love, 

Emma

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Review of the New Orleans Aquarium and Insectarium

Discover the Secret Life of Insects at the New Orleans Aquarium and Insectarium!

Experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans with our top recommendations for dining, accommodation, and activities. Don't miss out on the must-see spots in this lively city. Book your trip now!

We spent a good portion of our morning at the New Orleans Aquarium and Insectarium when we were visiting and liked it so much! For one it was a great way to get out of the rain but we also make the aquarium a priority whenever we are visiting a new place. At the New Orleans Aquarium and Insectarium, we were able to learn so much from the captivating world of these tiny creatures. They had interactive exhibits as well as unique species to see for the first time. If you are visiting, get ready to explore and learn about the behaviors and habitats of insects like never before. Below I am sharing more from out visit about the world of aquatic species as well as the insects that are at this one-of-a-kind attraction in New Orleans.

More Details on the New Orleans Aquarium

Inside the New Orleans Aquarium we saw so many species, the Audubon Aquarium is home to over 3,600 animals and 250 species! This aquarium is right next to the Mississippi River which is a whole different perspective going in rather than the Boston Aquarium that we visited so often that is right on the ocean! The Audubon Aquarium has many interactive exhibits that let us get close to so many species. Some of my favorites to see were the African Penguins and the Louisiana white leucistic alligator which was so rare to see! They also had South American Sea Nettles which are a species of jellyfish, Giant Sea Turtles, and Sea Horses, as well as various sharks and stingrays. A fun fact that I thought was pretty cool is that it is in the top 10 of best aquariums in the United States, definitely worth the visit!

A full review of the the New Orlean's Aquarium and Insectarium
A full review of the the New Orlean's Aquarium and Insectarium

Details on the Insectarium

I don’t think we had ever been to an Insectarium before this but we enjoyed it and will be adding them to our to-dos when they are available! Walking into the Insectarium was so cool, right away there was so much to look at. They had different beetles, ants, bumblebees, carpenter bees, grasshoppers, cockroaches and so many more. Then in the butterfly house, there was so much to look at, tons of zebra longwing butterflies, monarch butterflies, and more stating that there are over 20 species of butterflies within the butterfly house. They also had giant sphinx moths, Halloween pennant dragonflies, and Florida walkingstick are just a few. Again there are tons of interactive displays and informative signage so that visitors of all ages can learn in a hands-on way more information about these fascinating creatures.

Pricing Details on Both Spots

You can buy tickets online or in person, we bought them in person when we were there but I believe you might save some money if you pre purchase them online. As of right now, in Spring 2024, when you buy them online the ticket for the Aquarium is $30 per person for a non-member and the Insectarium is $30 per person for a non-member. If you purchase them together though the total for both the Aquarium and the Insectarium is $40 per person which is a huge savings. This is the option that we did and I believe it was similar in cost per person when we visited and bought them.

A full review of the the New Orlean's Aquarium and Insectarium
A full review of the the New Orlean's Aquarium and Insectarium
A full review of the the New Orlean's Aquarium and Insectarium
A full review of the the New Orlean's Aquarium and Insectarium

Details on Food & Drinks

After exploring the interactive exhibits, you may find yourself feeling hungry and in need of a break. Luckily, between the Insectarium and the Aquarium, there is a restaurant with a ton of options. The menu has so many New Orleans-style options including a roast beef Po’ Boy, a Gulf Shrimp Salad, Crawfish Etouffee, Gumbo, and then other options like chicken tenders or a delicious-looking turkey sandwich and chips. There are kids’ meals as well and in the cooler were tons of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options to choose from. The indoor seating was nice as it overlooks the Mississippi River, the perfect stop between seeing the aquarium and the insectarium.

Lots to say about the New Orleans Aquarium and Insectarium but honestly such an unexpected find on this trip. So many unique species, and interactive exhibits to explore and learn about these creatures. Whether you love all things animals like me or just need a rainy day activity, the New Orleans Aquarium and Insectarium is one for the bucket list! If you have any questions at all, comment below or send me an email at tarynintotravel@gmail.com and I will get back to you as soon as I can!

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Gluten Free In New Orleans

Hi Friends!

Exploring Gluten-Free Delights in The Big Easy | Gluten-Free New Orleans

There were tons of options when we were in New Orleans for gluten-free options and I wanted to make sure that they were all in one spot for you guys to reference when you need it! I also have a whole blog post for New Orleans Where to Eat, Stay and Play that I will link here for you guys if you want to check that out and get an idea of other things to do while you are in the city! Below are the spots worth sharing!

Where to Eat in New Orleans, Louisiana:

Deanie’s Seafood - This is where we went to dinner the first night we were here pretty much right after we got checked into the hotel. We were so hungry! They didn’t have a huge gluten-free menu but when I saw that they had gluten-free fried seafood I didn’t hesitate. For dinner, I got the fried catfish and a side of sweet potato fries, as you can see from the picture it was SO much freakin food. I feel like I didn’t even scratch the surface of eating everything on my plate. The portion was plenty for two so learn from my mistake! It was so yummy though. Dustin got the Jambalaya and was impressed, we both really liked our meals!

Exploring Gluten-Free Delights in The Big Easy | Gluten-Free New Orleans
Exploring Gluten-Free Delights in The Big Easy | Gluten-Free New Orleans
Experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans with our top recommendations for dining, accommodation, and activities. Don't miss out on the must-see spots in this lively city. Book your trip now!

Bons New Orleans Street Food - This place was so exciting to me that we ate here one day and had gluten-free beignets and then the second day we came back for breakfast and we both got the gluten-free chicken and waffles…. OHHHH my goodness those were killer. I loved the fried chicken so much! A 20/10 on the chicken and waffles, the gluten-free beignets were meh… Like I got them because they were gluten-free but they were pretty dense and had this weird spiced flavor to them, I would call them more like donuts. Dustin said that he liked the ones that were not gluten-free though and he would have those again.

Exploring Gluten-Free Delights in The Big Easy | Gluten-Free New Orleans
Exploring Gluten-Free Delights in The Big Easy | Gluten-Free New Orleans
Exploring Gluten-Free Delights in The Big Easy | Gluten-Free New Orleans

The Will and the Way - We actually stopped in here two different times on different days because we liked it so much! I had probably too many of the Saint Luke which was blueberry, basil, and black tea-infused vodka with lime and simple syrup… SO good, I want to recreate it at home! We also loved their Loaded Korean Hot Fries… OH MY GOSH, they were good! They were almost like a poutine style with kimchi, beef bulgogi, gochujang aioli, and peanuts… We had like three servings of these dang fries! 10/10 recommend this bar, it was our favorite!

Thaihey NOLA - After the steamboat ride, we were hungry but really wanted to head back to the hotel to warm up! We stopped at Thaihey and got an order to go. It was so good! For an appetizer we got an order of their chicken poppers which were like chicken nuggets tossed in a spicy green curry sauce, so good. And then we both got the same thing for dinner which was their soft shell crab pad Thai and that was also delicious both dishes were gluten-free and we liked them a lot! We probably could have eaten in the restaurant, it had a really cute vibe to it. We would eat here again!

Bars in New Orleans, Louisiana:

The Saddle Bar - This is the bar that we went to the first night we were here. There weren’t a ton of people in there but it was a Thursday night. Some groups would wander in and out but not consistently busy overall. It was a country bar which wasn’t usually our scene but they had games on some of the tables, beer pong, and a mechanical rooster so there was plenty of entertainment. The bartenders were nice and the drinks were good, we would go back!

The Will and the Way - see above for a more in-depth review but we loved this place!

The Pothole NOLA - I don’t feel like I have a good enough review for this bar. When we were in there we only had one drink, I got a Nutral, and Dustin had a Jack and Coke that he said was awful. The bartender was fine but seemed annoyed that we were there and it was just overall pretty boring. Again, it was the middle of the afternoon but it was a Saturday so I’m not sure, it could be more fun at other times of the day. Keep in mind there were other bars that we stopped into in the middle of the day that were more fun, so it just seemed like the bar was a dud.

Again, New Orleans was such a fun city to visit and it was filled with delicious gluten-free food options! If you have any questions at all, please comment below or send me an email at tarynintotravel@gmail.com and I will get back to you asap!

Much Love, 

Emma

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5 Tips for a Flawless Horseshoe Bend Trip

5 Tips for a Flawless Day 

Ready for an unforgettable day at Horseshoe Bend? We've got the lowdown on how to make it a total blast. Check out these casual but crucial tips for your adventure:

Expert Tips for Visiting Horseshoe Bend - Maximize Your Trip! Discover the top five must-know tips for planning a trip to Horseshoe Bend. Don't miss out on this breathtaking destination - read now and make the most of your visit! #HorseshoeBend #Trav
Expert Tips for Visiting Horseshoe Bend - Maximize Your Trip! Discover the top five must-know tips for planning a trip to Horseshoe Bend. Don't miss out on this breathtaking destination - read now and make the most of your visit! #HorseshoeBend #Trav
Expert Tips for Visiting Horseshoe Bend - Maximize Your Trip! Discover the top five must-know tips for planning a trip to Horseshoe Bend. Don't miss out on this breathtaking destination - read now and make the most of your visit! #HorseshoeBend #Trav

1. Don’t forget your water!

Imagine this: soaking in Horseshoe Bend's beauty with a chilled water bottle in hand. It gets so hot here, remember we are in the desert! There isn’t a place to buy water down at the site and it is so important that you don’t get dehydrated! Make sure to bring plenty of water, and, hey, keep it cool! Nothing beats the heat like a refreshing sip while you take in the jaw-dropping scenery after the small hike down to the bend.

2. Catch the Sunset by getting in at Least an Hour Early!

Sunsets at Horseshoe Bend are pure magic. Want the best seat in the house? Be fashionably early – at least an hour before sunset. Trust us, it's worth it for that picture-perfect view and the ultimate chill vibes. This gives you time to make your way down to the site, grab some photos, and then sit back and wait and get a seat for the sunset.

3. Windy Vibes: Shades On, Sand Out!

The wind at Horseshoe Bend kicks up the sand, so you may want to throw on some shades. It was so windy when we were there, we would have to turn away from the wind so the sand didn’t hit us in the face. I had my glasses on and that helped a lot but if you don’t wear glasses, definitely opt for some sunglasses!  

4. Hit the Restroom Before You Go- and Grab Some Hand Sanitizer!

When you are down to see the actual site of Horseshoe Bend there are no bathroom stalls and you might be like me and absolutely regret not going before. Before you hit the trail, make a pit stop, they have tons of bath room stalls near the parking lot. Oh, and toss some hand sanitizer in your bag, you’ll thank me later!

5. Pack an Umbrella for Daytime Vibes!

Sunsets are killer, but daytime adventures are no slouch either. If you're planning a daytime visit, throw in an umbrella. It might feel completely unnecessary but when you are hiking down to the bend in the heat with the sun beating on you, the umbrella will give you some relief from that! It's your shade buddy, keeping you cool and honestly can help with the sand and wind combination.

With cold water, a sunset game plan, shady sunglasses, restroom readiness, and a sun-protecting umbrella, you're all set for a trip of nature, laughter, and incredible views and memories!

Much Love,

Emma

XO

Expert Tips for Visiting Horseshoe Bend - Maximize Your Trip! Discover the top five must-know tips for planning a trip to Horseshoe Bend. Don't miss out on this breathtaking destination - read now and make the most of your visit! #HorseshoeBend #Trav
Expert Tips for Visiting Horseshoe Bend - Maximize Your Trip! Discover the top five must-know tips for planning a trip to Horseshoe Bend. Don't miss out on this breathtaking destination - read now and make the most of your visit! #HorseshoeBend #Trav
Expert Tips for Visiting Horseshoe Bend - Maximize Your Trip! Discover the top five must-know tips for planning a trip to Horseshoe Bend. Don't miss out on this breathtaking destination - read now and make the most of your visit! #HorseshoeBend #Trav
Expert Tips for Visiting Horseshoe Bend - Maximize Your Trip! Discover the top five must-know tips for planning a trip to Horseshoe Bend. Don't miss out on this breathtaking destination - read now and make the most of your visit! #HorseshoeBend #Trav

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Uncovering Arizona's Most Delicious Gluten-Free Restaurants!

Gluten-Free in Arizona

"Gluten-free" has definitely become a buzzword in the world of food, with more and more people opting for a gluten-free diet or like in my case, I don’t have a choice and that is how I have to eat. When I first got my allergy I felt like there were almost no options but in the last few years, there are tons more! Finding restaurants on the go or while you are traveling can be a challenge so I wanted to share some of the spots we loved. Fear not, gluten-free friends, Arizona has got you covered. With its stunning landscapes and rich culinary scene, the Grand Canyon State also boasts a wide array of gluten-free restaurants that promise to satisfy your taste buds without compromising your health. Below we'll take a tour of the top gluten-free restaurants in Arizona, so you can enjoy your visit to the fullest {belly}!

Sedona, Arizona

Wildflower (Breakfast): Start your day right with a hearty breakfast at Wildflower. Their menu is filled with mouthwatering morning options. I was so excited to eat here there were quite a few gluten-free options that I was choosing between and ultimately went with the brown sugar oatmeal pancakes and they were delicious. I am usually more of a savory breakfast person and was pleasantly surprised with my choice.

Explore the best gluten-free restaurants in Arizona and indulge in mouth-watering meals. Satisfy your cravings and dine worry-free with our helpful guide. Don't miss out, check it out now!

Coffee Pot Restaurant (Breakfast): Known for its extensive menu and charming atmosphere, Coffee Pot Restaurant is the perfect spot for a hearty breakfast. I loved the little shop that was attached to the restaurant, they had so many cute finds. To eat I just had a classic two eggs, bacon, toast, and breakfast potatoes, there were other gluten-free options but I wasn’t feeling anything else. But everyone else enjoyed their meal as well, Dustin got the biscuits and gravy and he said they were an 8/10. I would for sure go back if we were in Sedona again. Also, for a little tip- parking is limited, we parked across the street at the movie theater but got in right away so don’t let the parking situation steer you away.

Secret Garden Cafe (Lunch & Dinner): This charming spot offers a delectable menu inspired by the freshest local ingredients. Dine amidst lush gardens for a truly magical experience. To eat I got the Secret Caesar Salad and a cup of the Signature Southwestern Corn Chowder- they were both really good! I also recommend getting the Prickly Pear Lemonade (and if you’re feeling crazy add vodka, it was so so so good)!

Oak Creek Brewery & Grill (Lunch & Dinner): Craft beer lovers, rejoice! Oak Creek Brewery not only serves up fantastic brews but also delicious food with scenic outdoor seating. We ate here for dinner one night while staying in Sedoana and it was such a fun time!

Hideaway House (Dinner): Perched on a hill, Hideaway House offers breathtaking views of the red rocks. Enjoy Italian-inspired dishes and sunset vistas that will take your breath away. They had a good selection of gluten-free options and everyone with us who isn’t gluten-free loved their meals! As an appetizer Dustin and I split the Avocado Roasted Tomato Crostini which they made gluten-free for me! Dustin got the gluten-free Margherita pizza and I got the gluten-free Chicken Pesto Pomodoro! We split both and were happy with each item that we got. They also had great drinks here, I just had a glass of red wine but my mom had the blueberry smash and Dustin got the Bourbon Peach Smash, which we all loved!

Explore the best gluten-free restaurants in Arizona and indulge in mouth-watering meals. Satisfy your cravings and dine worry-free with our helpful guide. Don't miss out, check it out now!
Explore the best gluten-free restaurants in Arizona and indulge in mouth-watering meals. Satisfy your cravings and dine worry-free with our helpful guide. Don't miss out, check it out now!

Cameron, Arizona

Explore the best gluten-free restaurants in Arizona and indulge in mouth-watering meals. Satisfy your cravings and dine worry-free with our helpful guide. Don't miss out, check it out now!

Cameron Trading Post - (Lunch) This spot was advertised on a billboard at the perfect time because we were hungry and it was only a few miles up the road in front of us. They had tons of gluten-free options and the infamous Navajo Taco which was a taco on fry bread with all of the toppings (my parents split this)! I had something called the Gunslinger which was a hot ham and cheese but it had diced green chilis on it as well and it was Chefs Kiss SO GOOD. I have even recreated that sandwich here at home because I loved it so much. I would 100% recommend stopping here for a meal if it is in your path to your destination! I should also say that it was connected to a huge store with art, souvenirs, snacks, and lots to look at while you stretch your legs.

Gilbert/Mesa Area

Explore the best gluten-free restaurants in Arizona and indulge in mouth-watering meals. Satisfy your cravings and dine worry-free with our helpful guide. Don't miss out, check it out now!

Salt, Tacos & Tequila - (Lunch and Dinner) We ate here when we were in Gilbert and they have a really cool atmosphere. We stopped for a quick lunch so I didn’t get a margarita, but I should have, there were so many good options on the menu. We all shared an appetizer we got a delicious corn dip but when I went back to look at the menu online, I couldn’t find it. If it is on the menu when you go, grab it! I got the mix-and-match taquitos on the appetizer menu for my main course but very filling for lunch. It was two shredded beef and 2 shredded chicken taquitos with chipotle cream, avocado salsa, and queso… YUM!

Queen Creek Area

Queen Creek Olive Mill - (Lunch and Dinner) This place was so cool, we didn’t know what to expect but it was like a shopping experience where you could buy cheeses, wines, olive oils, etc. but there was also a place to grab food and gelato and hang out. I liked the vibe of this place. When I was there they were also advertising for date night classes for pizza-making, wine tastings, and different festivals. I would say that I very confidently had the best gluten-free cauliflower crust pizza that I have ever had, I don’t say that often and will usually turn my nose up at a cauliflower crust if I am being honest. I was very pleasantly surprised, I recommend the Margherita but was also eyeing the San Tan while we were in line. A lot was going on in the best way possible and if I was a local, I would go there often!

Page, Arizona

El Tapatio - (Lunch and Dinner) We are here in Page, AZ, and I wouldn’t recommend this place at all, I got so sick after eating here. I won’t give too many details but I was unwell, I think it was a gluten thing because no one else at dinner who was with us got sick but nobody really enjoyed their food. If you are curious I got the nachos and it was almost like a soup rather than nachos and it wasn’t cheese that was making it soupy- it was the juice from the beans. Not a great experience!

This was a lot of information but I didn’t want to do separate blog posts for each restaurant so I stuck with putting it all into one spot for you guys to check out if you are in Arizona. I think out of all of these spots my favorite place was the Queen Olive Creek Mill, I would love to have something like that near us in Orlando!

Much Love, 

Emma

XO

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Antelope Canyon with Ken’s Tours

Antelope Canyon with Ken’s Tours 

So this one is for the books.  If you have been thinking about seeing Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona- DO IT NOW. The lighting and photographs you are able to get from this natural wonder are surreal. 

For those of you who don't know, slot canyons are narrow sandstone canyons made over thousands of years by the wind, water, and sand. You see pictures of this all over socials and I promise you it did not disappoint. 

www.tarynintotravel.com | Get an unforgettable experience at Antelope Canyon Arizona with Ken's Tours. Discover iconic canyons and ancient rock formations with professional guides, and explore some

Dustin and I had been wanting to go to Page, Arizona for a while, so we finally did!

Where to stay in Page, Arizona:

We stayed at the Wingate by Wyndham Page Lake Powell and I 10/10 recommend staying there! It was comfortable, the staff was amazing, and I’m a sucker for a complimentary breakfast. The hotel is located just a short drive from the entrance to Antelope Canyon, this hotel provided us with the perfect home base to explore. The rooms were not only spacious and clean but also well-equipped to meet all our needs. 

www.tarynintotravel.com | Get an unforgettable experience at Antelope Canyon Arizona with Ken's Tours. Discover iconic canyons and ancient rock formations with professional guides, and explore some
www.tarynintotravel.com | Get an unforgettable experience at Antelope Canyon Arizona with Ken's Tours. Discover iconic canyons and ancient rock formations with professional guides, and explore some

Tour Guide Review for Page Arizona:

Although there are TONS of Antelope Canyon tours, we decided to go with Ken's Tours based on all the reviews. (PS tour guides are required to see Antelope Canyon because it is on a reserve.) 

Our tour guide, Janelle, was truly amazing. She not only led us through the winding sandstone passages but also shared an abundance of knowledge about the canyon's history, geology, and culture. Janelle was patient and eagerly answered all our questions, ensuring we left the canyon with a profound appreciation for its beauty.

The lighting at Antelope Canyon is a dream come true for photos. Janelle helped us identify the best spots for capturing some of our favorite travel pictures we have ever taken. The way the light hits the winding sandstone formations makes you feel like you are on an Alien planet. 

www.tarynintotravel.com | Get an unforgettable experience at Antelope Canyon Arizona with Ken's Tours. Discover iconic canyons and ancient rock formations with professional guides, and explore some
www.tarynintotravel.com | Get an unforgettable experience at Antelope Canyon Arizona with Ken's Tours. Discover iconic canyons and ancient rock formations with professional guides, and explore some

So here are some reminders for you!

The Best time to see Antelope Canyon:

Timing matters! When planning your visit, consider booking the 9:30 a.m. slot. The lighting is best in the early morning and you have to consider the weather. The temperature was perfect and stayed comfortable right until the end of the tour.

What to Bring on your tour:

You're only allowed to bring water and your phone or camera. So don’t spend time packing for a day out. 

Antelope Canyon Difficulty:

In terms of difficulty, we'd rate the Antelope Canyon tour as a 2-3 out of 10, (with 10 being the most challenging).  While there are a few narrow passages and some rocks to navigate, it's generally an easy and accessible journey. You don't need to be a seasoned hiker to appreciate the beauty of this place.

Pricing of Ken’s Tour of Antelope Canyon: 

The Antelope Canyon tour costs $55 per person, and it's worth every single penny. The memories, the photographs, and the sense of wonder you'll take away from this extraordinary place are truly priceless.

www.tarynintotravel.com | Get an unforgettable experience at Antelope Canyon Arizona with Ken's Tours. Discover iconic canyons and ancient rock formations with professional guides, and explore some
www.tarynintotravel.com | Get an unforgettable experience at Antelope Canyon Arizona with Ken's Tours. Discover iconic canyons and ancient rock formations with professional guides, and explore some

All in all, I highly recommend taking a weekend trip here. The sights are beautiful and you won’t want to miss out. 

Much Love, 

Emma

XO

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