California, Here I Come

Ever since I was fourteen, I dreamed of going to sunny California. I vividly remember envying Marissa Cooper, star of the fabulous sitcom The OC, and her exciting adventures in California. I wanted to go. I needed to go. I had a California bucket list. And it needed to be completed. Well, this summer it finally happened! After successfully completing the first year of my Masters program, I decided to spoil myself and pay a visit to my dreamland.

Of course, my first stop had to be hiking up the hills (in 4 inch heels, I might add) to the infamous Hollywood sign. The view was absolutely breathtaking. 

I was lucky enough to convince Stephanie (aka Diary of a Debutante) to join me in visiting the infamous Ashley Brooke (my real life cousin and BFF) in sunny LA. In order to satisfy my dangerously intense shopping addiction, Rodeo Drive was the obvious next stop. California wouldn’t be California without their numerous picturesque beaches.

Residing in Ontario, Canada I have a serious lack of beach in my life. California was the perfect opportunity to go beach hopping. We went to Laguna Beach (SO Lauren Conrad), Newport Beach and Malibu beach (pictured above). Beach photo shoots ensued.

Finally, we visited the Pepperdine Campus in Malibu to get a taste of Ashley’s experience at Pepperdine last year. Green. With. Envy. Suddenly it all becomes clear. Transferring to Pepperdine ASAP. We also visited Santa Monica Beach & Pier!

Finally, Stephanie and I had our own private tour of Old Town Pasadena, complimentary of Ryan, Ashley’s (kind of awesome) hubby. Thanks Ryan! The yogini in me emerged in the sunshine!!

Overall, my trip to California was one of the best experiences I’ve had. It gave me a chance to clear my head and re-evaluate my priorities in life. In the end, I was reminded of how blessed I am to have such amazing girlfriends and travel buddies. What is next you ask? Vegas, New York City and Paris!