TRAVEL GUIDE: AUSTRALIA

Posted on by rosie

SYDNEY

Where I stayed:

We found an Airbnb in the business district, which was super convenient for getting around. We walked a lot and took the public transport (get an Opal card) when needed.

avocado bruschetta with poached eggs at Manly Wine

Food:

  • The Harrison* (central) – decent happy hour
  • Playfield Cafe* (central) – located in the Rocks, great stop for an epic sandwich if you’re there for the market
  • Grill’d* (Surry Hills) – it’s a healthy fast food chain with amazing zucchini fries, paleo buns, vegetarian/vegan options. highly recommend enjoying with a glass of rosé!
  • Fishbowl* (Bondi) – poké chain. so fresh and their fish are sustainably sourced!
  • Berri Patch* (Bondi) – great smoothies and smoothie bowls!
  • Lil Darlin’* (Darlinghurst) – the best meal I had in Sydney! their salmon is AMAZING. fun drinks, fun vibes! you get $10 off your drink for posting on your IG about them
  • Gelato Messina* (Darlinghurst) – there was a constant line out the door for obvious reasons. it was soooo good! they have vegan options too
  • Verd* (Manly) – think plant based Sweetgreen, they have vegan bulletproof coffee too!
  • Manly Wine* (Manly) – such a cute spot for brunch!
  • Fish Market – highly recommended by multiple people
  • Mug Life – colorful burgers
  • Flower Child Cafe
  • Orchard Street Cafe – shop and cafe with adaptogens, wish I had gone!
  • The Grounds – whimsical vibes
  • Son of a Baker
  • V Lounge
  • Two Sis
  • Henry Lee’s
  • Morning Owl
  • Chimichuri
  • Little Turtle – Thai food
  • Treetop Cafe
  • The Mews Mosman
  • Bondi Health Market (Surry Hills)
  • Al Taglio (Surry Hills) – pizza owned by two young men, highly recommended by a friend
  • Green Dream (Bondi)
  • Icebergs Club (Bondi) – such a great spot for a view and a drink. there’s a dress code!
  • Trio (Bondi) – highly recommended to me, wish I had gone!
  • Paris (Bondi)
  • Preach (Bondi)
  • Bare Naked Bowls – açaí bowl chain
  • Market Street Cafe (Manly) – best coffee
  • Manly Skiff Club (Manly) – food with a great view of the water and boats
  • Four Points (Manly) – local brewery

Activities & Tips:

  • The Rocks Farmers Market on Fridays and Saturdays*
  • Ferry to Manly* – such a cute little beach town
  • Explore Darlinghurst and Surry Hills* – these were my favorite parts of the city
  • North head looking out Manly* – trails and caves
  • Hike Blue Mountains* – gorgeous park, plan to make it a day trip. pack lots of snacks and water!
  • Bus to Bondi Beach* – super busy and touristy but really fun!
  • Eco hopper ferry – like a free tour of Manly to the Quay
  • The Rocks Walking Tour – free
  • If you’re dying to hold koalas, know that you can’t in the city of Sydney. They have a law against it to protect the animals. Plan around this if that’s important to you!
  • If you’re not a huge city person, I wouldn’t recommend staying in central. It’s really busy! If I were to go back, I would stay in Manly (still lots to do, eat, and see) and stay close to the beaches, then ferry into the city.

BRISBANE

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Where I stayed:

I stayed at an Airbnb south of the city, around Southbank. I loved the area! I just took public transport (get a go card) to get around, north of the city, as well as to and from Lone Pine. I loved walking to West End too! Such a fun area and about 2 miles away from where I stayed. Message me if you want details on where I stayed! I had the best host – super kind and welcoming.

snickers smoothie bowl at Cardamom Pod

Food:

  • Miss Bliss Whole Foods* (West End) – so good, went here twice! the bliss bowl without grains and peas, add salmon was my go to order! they also have amazing raw vegan treats, as do many of these places!
  • Paw Paw Cafe* (South) – Asian fusion healthy food. the curry was amazing. vegan/gluten free options available!
  • NoDo Donuts* (Newstead) – awesome brunch spot with the best gluten free donuts. AMAZING. their gluten free and vegan sourdough hot cake was really tasty too
  • Brew Wine Cafe* (central) – speakeasy vibes, vegan/vegetarian options, great spot for a drink
  • The Pantry* (Southbank) – tiny little health food store with fresh produce/deli/juice
  • Whole Health* (West End) – HIGHLY RECOMMEND! I made a stop here a few times to pick up some fun health food items. they have an amazing bulk section with loving earth chocolate bars you can buy for baking too!
  • The Cruelty Free Shop* (West End) – such a cute little vegan/cruelty free shop. mostly food, some clothing, books, etc.
  • Marcia’s* (West End) – sustainably friendly shop with some food in the back. they have really amazing ice cream sandwiches that are vegan, gluten free, and refined sugar free!
  • The Green Grocer* (West End) – little health food shop
  • Cardamom Pod* (Gold Coast) – HIGHLY RECOMMEND. plant based. the most beautiful smoothie bowls ever and they taste amazing
  • Vegerama – vegan
  • Pando Cafe
  • Miss Jones
  • Bare Naked Bowls
  • Mylk + Co – great brekky
  • Sacred Taste Organic Cacao Bar (Gold Coast) – organic, plant based, gluten free, refined sugar free desserts
  • The Nude Sisters (Gold Coast)
  • Bskt Cafe (Gold Coast)

Activities & Tips:

  • West End Markets on the weekends* – search for Davies Park on google maps
  • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary******* – HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! Funny story, I originally had just a 7 hour layover in Brisbane, just enough time to travel to Lone Pine to cuddle the koalas, right? Wrong. We got there and were told that they were no longer doing koala cuddles and photos and to come back in the morning. I decided to cancel my flight to Cairns and stay so I could hold the koalas. Worth it. These animals are really taken care of here and I felt really happy supporting an organization that’s so passionate about animals.
  • Train to Gold Coast* – go south if you want quieter beaches, but I wanted to see the madness since I was making a day trip out of it. I went to Surfer’s Paradise and it was beautiful. Be careful though! I got stung by a jellyfish here!
  • I regret not making time to make it to Byron Bay. Next time, I would definitely rent a car and drive there to see the beaches and amazing healthy foods!

MELBOURNE

Hosier Lane

Where I stayed:

I stayed in a beautiful apartment I found on Airbnb in the Docklands, where the marina is. 10/10 would recommend! It was so nice getting to walk over to the marina to read my book and watch the sunset. There’s also a free trolley that runs in that area into the city! It’s not a bad walk either! Uber pool is available for really cheap too.

gluten free pancakes, matcha burger, and latte flight at Matcha Mylkbar

Food:

  • Cocobei* (Docklands) – amazing cafe next door to my Airbnb. I literally pulled up a photo they had on their IG and said, “I’d like to order this!” it was something off their menu with modifications. super bright and calming atmosphere. they also offer barista and latte art classes!
  • Aunt Maggie’s* (Fitzroy) – like a little Whole Foods. the best part is all of their raw vegan treats and loco love chocolates at the checkout! AMAZING.
  • Matcha Mylkbar* (St Kilda) – highly recommend!!! plant based brunch spot. the most beautiful food and super tasty too!
  • Combi* (Elwood) – got a coffee here but their smoothies looked amazing
  • Leaf* (Elwood) – little health food store. amazing finds!
  • Manchester Press* (central) – amazing open face bagel toast
  • Laneway Greens* (central) – similar to Sweetgreen
  • Ronnie and the Fabulous Juice* (central) – located at the Queen Victoria market. I got the Charlie Brown smoothie without agave and it was delicious!
  • Little Green – vegan
  • Serotonin Dealer
  • Tall Timber
  • Weirdoughs – plant based baked goods
  • Barry – coffee and food
  • Lune Croissanterie – best croissants in the world
  • Green Cup
  • This Is Life
  • Little Sunflower
  • Elwood Bathers (Elwood)
  • The Turtle (Elwood)
  • Who is Bunker Spreckles (Elwood) – cool surf vibes cafe
  • Foxes Den (Elwood) – healthy take out
  • Plain Sailing (Elwood) – highly recommended by a friend
  • Penta Elsternwick
  • Top Paddock
  • Coin Laundry
  • Left Field
  • Mr. Patterson
  • Gin Palace (central) – a must if you enjoy gin
  • Heartbreaker (central) – cool spot for a drink
  • Madame Brussels (central) – rooftop bar
  • Toff in Town (central) – rooftop bar

Activities & Tips:

  • Queen Victoria Market* – such a fun market with lots to see! great place to get souvenirs
  • Sucker Love Tattoo* – Bobbie is amazing especially if you’re into fine line tattoos!
  • Hosier Lane* – famous spot for legal graffiti
  • Walk Fitzroy* – lots of quirky shops and restaurants
  • Explore Elwood* – tons of cute little shops and cafes
  • Free trolley in and around the city
  • City Gallery – free art museum
  • NGV Australia – free art museum, abstract art
  • Robert Gordon Ceramics – local to Melbourne and he has an outlet shop an hour away from the city
  • Botanical Gardens
  • Flinders Lane – lots of shops
  • Brunswick Street – shops
  • Walk around Crown Casino
  • Crown Fire Show
  • Drive the Great Ocean Road – if I could go back, I’d make time for this!

* = places I’ve been. no * & no note = instagrammable spot I found via word of mouth or on @bestfood IG accounts

Quick tips for solo travel:

  • bring a good book, or two! I finally found and made time to read and it felt amazing
  • download offline mode maps. T-Mobile is my service provider and they offer unlimited international roaming but it’s SLOW
  • bring a little cash. most places accept card but some market vendors only take cash
  • don’t be afraid to ask locals for help! your Airbnb hosts are great resources too. locals love sharing info about their favorite spots and little tips with getting around the city
  • be comfortable with making friends everywhere you go. solo travel can get lonely! I made friends with my servers, random people out and about at pubs, shops, and restaurants, the cabin crews, etc. your confidence will build too!
  • make a list of your priorities and make them happen! make note of their location, how long it would get there from where you’re staying, and when they close. don’t leave without any regrets!
  • bring some American goodies for cabin crew, Airbnb hosts, random people you meet! I packed a ton of chocolate, protein bars, thank you cards, and Seattle pins from home to share!
  • be cautious, mindful, and smart! be aware of your surroundings and say “no” when your gut tells you to in any situation
  • I used tinder as a way to meet locals and have someone to grab coffee with. didn’t have the best experience but I don’t regret doing it either
  • made friends by having a power bank on me. just an idea!

I know this is heaps of information but it was seriously one of the best places I have ever visited. The people are so kind, warm, and welcoming! I never really felt alone even whilst traveling solo. Have fun, be safe, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2018

Posted on by rosie

Let’s just jump right in, shall we?


  1. Homesick Candle / price varies. Send your loved one off with a little piece of home! There are a ton of different scents that will make them feel at home.
  2. Amazon Fire Stick / $25. Nothing like Netflix and chill in the hotel room to make ’em feel right at home. I love how compact it is too!
  3. Manduka Travel Yoga Mat / $32. A travel yoga mat is everything your traveler never knew they needed for that morning flow! No one wants to go down to the dodgy hotel gym at 6am to grab a mat.
  4. Hot Logic Food Warmer / $45. This is especially convenient for those who like to pack their own food while on the go, IE: flight attendants and frequent flyers!
  5. Saje Travel Cloud Oil Diffuser / $70. Give the gift of zen with this portable essential oil diffuser! Love that it comes with a convenient travel case too.
  1. Blanquil Weighted Blanket / $169. Weighted blankets are all the rage right now and you can use code “NYC20” for a nice little discount!
  2. Cozy Mock Neck Sweater / $40. Nothing is cozier than a chunky mock neck sweater! My favorite one is from Nordstrom Rack (they have so many in stock right now) by a brand called John & Jenn.
  3. Kikki. K 365 Journal / $43. My absolute favorite journal. It puts me in a super snuggly mood, grabbing this journal with a cup of tea before bed.
  4. Kirkland Slippers / $20. I got one word for ya: DEALZ. I got these slippers for a few of my favorite people (and for myself) this year!
  5. Ceremonial Matcha Bowl Set / $35. My matcha enthusiasts know that making a morning matcha is a peaceful art. It’s more than just tea – it’s a calming and mindful ritual.
  1. Rose Quartz Gua Sha + Lapis Oil Mini / $18 + $24. I started incorporating Gua Sha into my morning routine and I absolutely love it. I apply Herbivore’s Lapis oil prior to using the teardrop tool. My face is so much brighter and smoother afterwards!
  2. Sun Potion Ashwagandha / $43. Ashwagandha is my secret weapon to dealing with life’s daily stressors. I swear by it.
  3. Tru Wild Motion Pre-Workout / $38. This is my favorite all natural pre-workout. The ingredients are amazing and it gives me just the right amount of energy for a killer workout! Use code “KALEWILD15” for a discount!
  4. Mantra Band Grateful Ring / $22. I’m not a bracelet person, so when I saw that Mantra Band started making rings, I was ALL ABOUT IT. This GRATEFUL ring is the perfect reminder to make anyone smile.
  5. Vital Proteins Holiday Sampler Box / $16. Collagen is my favorite holiday gift especially for those who are curious about it but won’t bite the bullet to get it. It has enhanced my skincare, gut health, digestion, and bone and joint health immensely!
  1. Thrive Market Membership / $60. Honestly, I never knew what I was missing out until I signed up for Thrive. Your fellow foodie will save SO much money versus dangerous trips to Whole Foods.
  2. Avocado Necklace / $35. HOW FREAKING CUTE, RIGHT?! Or get them a necklace of their favorite food!
  3. Marble Pastry Board / $22. These boards are gorgeous to photograph with and they also make really nice charcuterie boards!
  4. Instant Pot / $70. My life was forever changed after using my Instant Pot for the first time. Go on and change someone’s life.
  5. Microgreens Starter Kit / $25. These kits are so fun and are incredibly affordable too!
  1. Pasta, Pretty Please Cook Book / $19. Seattle-based Chef Linda Nicholson‘s cook book is everything your fellow foodie needs. Her gorgeous colorful pasta creations are mind blowing and can now be in the kitchen, even if it’s in paper form!
  2. The Dank Crystal / $14. Not only do these candles smell amazing, but they’re named after some special spots in the Seattle area, AND there’s a crystal inside the candle! win/win/win.
  3. Girlfriend Collective Activewear / price varies. This activewear line uses recycled materials to create their clothing. Nothing is more badass than that.
  4. Frankie & Jo’s Ice Cream / $52. If you know, YOU KNOW. And if you don’t, get it for a pal and ask them to share.
  5. Bulletproof Coffee Starter Kit / $35. The perfect gift for your keto (or keto-curious) friend! There’s a kit that comes with their ghee too, which you can find here. 

I genuinely love this time of year. I love gift giving and I LIVE to watch reactions of my loved ones whilst opening their “I-thought-of-you-and-had-to” gifts. But what’s more important than that is the time spent together. The slowness of the holidays, hot chocolate, cheesy Christmas movie marathons, the extra long and tight embraces, making new memories and laughing about old ones. Those are the true gifts. All the love, jingles, and cookies for Santa!

MY MORNING ROUTINE

Posted on by rosie

As a flight attendant, the word “routine” is not really in my vocabulary. Because of that, I’ve had to come up with my daily self love staples that are a complete must in order to feel my best self.

STRETCH AND WORKOUT

My favorite way to start the day is with a good stretch and workout! Lately, I’ve focused on long distance running to train for a half marathon, but I love to incorporate yoga and spinning in between run days for joint support.

MATCHA & BEET LATTE (JET LAG FIXER ELIXIR)

After a solid workout, usually I let my endorphins take me through the day! However, sometimes because of my weird work schedule, I need a little boost. On days like these, I like to have my matcha and beet latte. Matcha green tea gives me the perfect amount of energy and is packed with antioxidants. I started incorporating HumanN Super Beets beet powder into my morning latte for extra support with my training. Beets promote natural energy, stamina, endurance, and heart health, which also makes it perfect to BEET any jet lag!

– 1 teaspoon matcha powder

– 1 scoop HumanN Super Beets powder

– 1 tablespoon coconut butter

– 1 tablespoon brain octane oil, or MCT oil

– 1 teaspoon ashwagandha

Warm up some water until almost boiling. Whisk the matcha powder in the hot water until completely dissolved. Pour the matcha tea into a blender along with the remaining ingredients. Blend for 1-2 minutes.

BREAKFAST

Let’s be real- by this time, it’s pretty much brunch. I love starting the day with a nourishing meal. Whether it’s a smoothie, breakfast bowl, or sweet potato toast, my meals usually contain the following: healthy fats, fiber, greens, and protein. These meals keep me satiated and energized for my day!

As far as the rest of the day, it’s all up in the air! *ba dumch* I could be flying, recipe testing, or taking the day off to spend with my friends, family, or just myself. I find though, that if I stick to my morning routine and take it slow, I’m setting myself up for a good day no matter what I get up to. Hope this helps some of you! All the love.

TRAVEL GUIDE: SOUTH AFRICA

Posted on by rosie

Starting a series that’s way overdue, a travel guide series! I’m starting off with South Africa because I just spent a week in Cape Town and had the time of my life. Here are some things I did, things I ate, and everything in between!

ACCOMMODATION

I stayed in an Airbnb the heart of Cape Town, conveniently located next to a bunch of shops and only minutes away from our favorite restaurants located on Bree Street. I really wanted to stay in a place that felt homey, so I picked out a loft I felt best suited me: large windows for natural lighting overlooking Lion’s Head, a kitchen with everything you could possibly need, and just the right amount of space for my best friend and me.

ACTIVITIES

HIKES

A MUST. Lion’s Head and Table Mountain are both centrally located and were only about $5 USD uber rides to the start of the trail from where we stayed.

  • Lion’s Head took about 2 hours round trip, but prepared to do some major rock climbing towards the top. There are handles and chains for guidance but don’t let those intimidate you! The bigger rocks towards the top are quite slippery as well, so just be very cautious and try to avoid going when it’s wet or when it’s dark out, unless you have the proper equipment for it.

  •  Table Mountain was SO MUCH FUN. It was paved very well and felt completely safe all the way up, but as always, proceed with caution. The steps get steep pretty quick but it’s basically a straight shot all the way up. There are alternative routes as well if you prefer switchbacks. Or, you can also take the cable car up! We decided to hike up, which took about 2 hours, and took the cable car down.

CITY SIGHTSEEING BUS

The city sightseeing bus is hop on hop off double decker bus and is a perfect way to get a tour of the city. We did this on our first full day and had so much fun seeing a glimpse of the city as well as getting to stop at the waterfront. A ticket for a full day is R180 and you and hop on and hop off at different stops the entire day. Just make sure to check the bus schedule online to plan accordingly!

THE WHARF WATERFRONT

The waterfront is a really fun and lively part of Cape Town. A perfect place to get souvenirs with loads of local and handmade vendors. There was also a mall with lots of shopping in case you need to pick up something you forgot to pack. The V&A Food Market is also located at the waterfront and it’s amazing!

THE WINE TRAM

One of my favorite things we did in South Africa! We hopped on a wine tram in Franschhoek which took us from vineyard to vineyard. We paid R220 for a ticket on the train and the tastings at the vineyards cost about $5-$10 USD at each place. Some vineyards didn’t charge a tasting fee if you bought a bottle. They’ll let you know if that’s the case! We caught on uber to and back from where you need to meet to catch the train, which was cheaper than their prearranged charter bus. Bring water and snacks! We hopped on the green line and LOVED it.

BOULDER’S BEACH

Boulder’s Beach is a beautiful beach filled with wild penguins. Definitely recommend checking it out, but just know that it’s very touristy and you will not be able to get too close to the penguins or pet them. There’s a fee to get into the park. We got to Boulder’s Beach and Cape of Good Hope via the City Sightseeing Bus. Another option is to rent a car. We also packed lunches and snacks for our road trip day, which I’d highly recommend doing.

CAPE OF GOOD HOPE

This is where the most southwestern spot of Africa is and it was absolutely stunning and serene. Luckily for us, it was a stop on our City Sightseeing Bus itinerary.

BO KAAP

The strip of bright and colorful houses located in downtown Cape Town is a must see. A really good spot for photos as well!

FOOD

V&A FOOD MARKET

They’ve got everything from poke bowls to local South African cheeses to lamb wraps. You’re bound to find something here! The hard part is deciding WHAT.

HAIL PIZZA

One of the best pizzas I’ve ever had was from Hail Pizza. I got their mushroom pizza add zucchini and eggplant. SO GOOD. On Wednesdays, they have buy one get one free pizzas from 6-8PM and reservations in advance are recommended as they do have limited seating!

KAUAI

The best little spot for breakfast or brunch! I got a smoothie bowl and a mushroom toast here and they were both so delicious.

THREE WISE MONKEYS

THE BEST RAMEN. They also make amazing sushi donuts and baos.

CLARKE’S BAR AND DINING ROOM

We grabbed drinks and a appetizers here. Good ambience and great vibes!

BURGERS & LOBSTERS

Their happy hour is amazing. Buy one get one free on some really unique and handcrafted cocktails.

EASTERN FOOD BAZAAR

We grabbed some curry at a spot behind our Airbnb. It was like a food court made up of about 5 different vendors of Asian and Middle Eastern food. Super delicious, affordable, and the portions were massive – lasted us 3 meals!

WOOLWORTHS FOOD & SPAR

We shopped for foods we could make for breakfast and have for snacks to save some money. Woolworths Food was blocks away from our Airbnb so it was pretty convenient, but if you can, get to Spar! They had a lot of health foods like kombucha, and grain free and sugar free baked goods and protein bars.

OUMEUL BAKERY

Snagged some freshly baked sourdough bread here!

BREE STREET

A strip of amazing restaurants and bars. Hail Mary, Burgers and Lobsters, and Clarke’s are all located on Bree St.

GETTING AROUND

UBER

Uber rides are extremely cheap in Cape Town and there is always a driver just minutes away. Super convenient and saved us from renting a car!

CITY SIGHTSEEING BUS

A really great way of getting around especially if you plan on hopping around the city the entire day. We also utilized their services going to Boulder’s Beach and Cape of Good Hope!

WALKING

Since we stayed downtown, everything was pretty close and in walking distance. However, be cautious walking around after dark. Certain streets can get pretty sketchy. Always walk with a buddy if you can.

TIPS

  • Ask locals for recommendations! I like to do this whenever I travel. My Airbnb host ended up giving us lots of advice on places to go based on our preferences and interests.
  • Find an Airbnb with a washer/dryer so you can pack less clothes.
  • Pack a jacket, leggings, and comfy shoes. The hikes are no joke and I cringed watching people hike in jeans. Don’t do that to yourself! It also gets cold higher up on the mountains.
  • Cook meals at home to save money. It’s fun to go out and have local cuisine, but waking up and having your usual breakfast made at home will not only save you money, but it will also help with your digestion.
  • We were traveling during a drought so we limited our water usage by using hand sanitizer and taking really quick showers.
  • The travel journey is long. From Seattle, you spend about 27 hours in the air. I’d recommend drinking of water at the airport, bringing detox tea and greens tabs with you. For more tips on flying, see this blog post.
  • Flight attendants: I non-reved via Emirates connecting through Dubai there and back. It was super easy and I got a seat on every flight!

I hope if you are considering making a trip to South Africa that this has convinced you to do it. It was such a beautiful place with loads to do and although it was bummed to leave, I feel like spending one week there was the perfect amount of time.

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MARCH FAVORITES (+ COCOKIND DISCOUNT)

Posted on by rosie

I feel like lately I’ve been going through a lot of change. Not necessarily bad by any means (I wrote a blog post all about positive change which you can see here). I decided to go all natural in the skincare and beauty department, which had me cleaning out my entire collection of beauty items to donate to friends and co-workers. I tried new things. I ended up loving them. This is me sharing all of that with you.

Mineral Fusion Pressed Powder in Deep  3

When Whole Foods had a 25% off beauty sale, I decided it was my chance to make a few more changes in my every day makeup routine. At the top of my list was a bronzer! I brought my bronzer with me and searched for something that looked similar in shade – found Mineral Fusion’s Pressed Powder, fell in love with the buttery formula and the rest is history! This product is a great dupe for what I was currently using to contour and I’ve been using it every day since!

Cocokind Skincare Golden Elixir

Can I get an amen for multipurpose products? As a flight attendant, I find it so convenient to pack things that have multiple uses. This  golden elixir roll-on is not only travel friendly, but it’s most definitely my new favorite travel buddy. I like to rub a little bit of the elixir on my fingertips and massage it into the ends of my hair. I also love keeping it close while flying because my all of the moisture gets sucked from my skin and it’s painful! Starting today until April 6, you can save 30% off your purchase over $50 using discount code “kaleintheclouds” at the checkout!

Digestive Enzymes, Triphala, Probiotics, Apple Cider Vinegar

GUT THANGS. Recently, I’ve been dealing with some hardcore gut issues. Constantly bloated because I’m trying to work a lot to save up. My gut is not having it! I started introducing the following things into my daily routine: digestive enzymes, triphala, probiotics, and  2 tbsp apple cider vinegar in 4-6 oz. water. I swear by these four things because I’ve noticed SUCH a difference in how I feel when I wake up and after getting off a flight!

Vital Proteins Matcha Collagen

I’ve been obsessed with VP’s Matcha Collagen ALL MONTH. Call me lazy, but there’s something so nice about having two things I use already mixed in one. Plus, it tastes great! I have a matcha latte every morning, even when I’m traveling! I make it using a glass jar and a small whisk, which you can get a tutorial for on my Instagram story highlights.

Carrot Cake Smoothie Recipe

This Carrot Cake Smoothie recipe I developed has got to be my favorite smoothie recipe I’ve ever made. It’s loaded with goods like you wouldn’t believe. Best part? It actually tastes like carrot cake! You can get the recipe here.

Chaia DC Tacos

The best eatery discovery of the month, or dare I say, YEAR?! I’m not kidding. This place blew my mind and I am already daydreaming of my next visit. Located in Georgetown DC, Chaia offers plant based farm to table style tacos that will make your tastebuds dance.

Outdoor Voices

It’s official. I am actually so obsessed with OV. Ever since I spotted a very chic athleisurely dressed gal on my flight (she seriously looked so cool, I wanted to be her friend), asked her where she got her leggings, and she raved about OV, I’ve been pining over everything on their website. Finally, I bit the bullet and placed an order for a few pieces that I now would genuinely say I would save them (and Delaney) first if my house were burning down. They are the comfiest, most flattering (dat booty!) pair of leggings I’ve ever purchased and I will never go back!

Moore Than Rocks

Located just 15 minutes away from mi casa is a crystal shop called Moore Than Rocks. I visited it twice last month and both times were so spiritual and self-fulfilling. The second time I went, I took some of my best friends and we all found gems, had a cleansing ceremony, and gave them homes. I am so happy to be learning about these gifts from our earth and to have them enhance my life and meditation practice.

When Strangers Meet by Kio Stark

I did so much reading in the month of March and one book that really stood out to me is a book called When Strangers Meet by Kio Stark. Stark discusses the art of meeting someone new and how meeting new people can enhance your life. As someone who’s passionate in solo traveling, I feel like everyone needs to read this book. The beauty of crossing paths with someone who you’ll learn later was destiny, is such a beautiful thing.

Love season 3

I was putting off watching this season of Love (a Netflix series) because I heard it was the last season, but damn. IT IS SO GOOD. If you are into romantic comedies with a lot of realness and quirk, this one’s for you.

Music Favorites

I’ve been making monthly playlists for a little while now and decided I want to start sharing them with you! Here is a link to my March playlist (Marching to the Beat of My Own Drum) on Spotify.

And that’s a wrap! What did you babes love last month?!

FLIGHT ATTENDANT FAQ

Posted on by rosie

Since starting Kale in the Clouds, I’ve received so many messages about my job. I absolutely love being a flight attendant, but it’s not always sunshine and rainbows. I am getting REAL with you with this Q+A and I hope that this can help you in some way! Feel free to comment or DM me on my Instagram account if you have more follow up questions. I’d be so happy to answer them for you!

How did you become a flight attendant?

Everything happened super fast! I submitted an application online after my friend told me about it. Within a week or so, I scheduled a phone interview. Immediately after the phone interview, I received an e-mail to schedule an in person interview. The in person interview was none like any other interview I’ve ever been to. I showed up along with 60 other applicants. There were 3 interviews that day and as the day went on, the numbers of applicants went down. At the end of the day, about 15 of us were hired!

How long have you been doing this?

I’ve been flying for 3 years.

Do you fly international routes?

With my airline, I’ve worked flights to Canada and Mexico. We also fly to Costa Rica!

How many days do you fly a week?

Because of my flexible schedule, I can fly as often or as little as I want. I don’t have a “typical” schedule because some months I work A LOT whereas some other months, I have travel plans so I’ll work less!

What’s it like being a flight attendant?

It’s amazing, crazy, tiring, fulfilling, busy, and testing. As tired as I get and as much as it can wear my immune system down, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. The opportunities are endless with this job and the flexibility in schedule it allows is incredible too!

Do you have a makeup for tattoo cover that you’d recommend?

I use Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover to cover my tattoos when I’m working.

Do you get to pick where you’re based?

When you first start, they ask you for a preference. This doesn’t guarantee your first base of choice. Depending on your preferred base, you may need to wait awhile before you are able to get in. Luckily, I got Seattle after just one month of flying!

How much notice do you get before you fly?

When you’re on reserve, you may get a 2 hour call out but usually  you find out before then when they need you. Now that I am a line holder, I get to put my own schedule together and I’m able to decide a month in advance what trips I want to work.

Even on reserve, are you able to find a healthy work/life balance or are you chained to waiting for a phone call?

Oh, reserve life! I was definitely chained to my phone for the first 6 months – just super paranoid about missing a phone call. Then, I was able to transition to going to the gym with my phone volume on high as I waited for a call. I do want to touch on balancing my social life though because that was HARD. Being on the go so often, it’s hard to watch your friends at home hangout without you. I learned that I had to be really proactive about reaching out to people and making sure they knew I was home instead of sitting on my bum and being butt hurt seeing them hangout without me on Instagram. Also, SLEEP. Sleep whenever you get a chance! You’ll learn that it’s actually so important and easily neglected when you first start flying.

Does your airline give you a stipend when you stay somewhere in between flights?

Hotel is paid for and with my airline, you do get a stipend!

What’s your typical work day like?

I get to the airport, check in on my work device, go through security, and check in with the gate agents. When I get on the plane, I put my stuff away and start checking to make sure all of the emergency equipment is good to go. When all of the flight attendants are on board, we introduce ourselves and brief our positions and typically the Captain will come introduce himself and tell us more details about the flight. Boarding happens pretty quickly after that, and before you know it, we’re off! Duties on the plane are different depending on which position you’re working.

How do you deal with jet lag and different time zones?

Jet lag is so real. 3 years in and it still doesn’t get much easier! I try to stay in the pacific time zone no matter where I am because my layovers usually aren’t very long. This means going to bed SUPER early when I fly east coast routes so I can get up earlier for that 7am EST departure.

How do you stay calm and continue to do your job when it’s turbulent?

I feel super lucky because turbulence doesn’t bother me. With that said, it’s easy for me to stay calm. However, when it gets to a point where we’re in the middle of service and it gets too bumpy, I usually go with my gut and speak up to other crew members. For the most part, we’ll be on the same page and pause service if it gets too bumpy. Safety first!

What is your brand of skillet that you travel with?

Nesco and I got it on Amazon!

What is your brand of lunch cooler?

It’s a Strongbag and I highly recommend it!

What kind of food can I pack? What can’t I pack?

You can pack so many good eats when you’re traveling! Salads, macro bowls, burritos, fries, roasted veggies, a sandwich, you name it! Just be cautious about packing salad dressing, guac, yogurt, premade oats, nut butters, anything with a cream or liquid consistency is a possible no-no depending on how strict TSA at your airport is.

Any tips for a traveler trying to stay healthy on the go?

  • ask your flight attendant for hot lemon water! it will help aid your digestion while flying
  • you can get free salad dressing past security at any restaurant in the airport
  • pack your own food and snacks because eats at the airport can get spendy
  • bring your daily vitamins and supplements with you! try to maintain consistency when you’re traveling
  • bring a reusable water with you and fill it up every time you see a water fountain or coffeeshop at the airport
  • pack greens tabs with you! these are the ones I use and love
  • other goodies to consider packing: collagen peptides sticks, apple cider vinegar shots, nut butter packs, matcha collagen travel packs
  • great on the go snacks: fruit, Perfect Bars, Simple Mills crackers, veggies and hummus, popcorn, dried fruit, nuts, bliss balls, protein bars, dark chocolate (I love Honey Mamas and Eating Evolved coconut butter cups)
  • pack some workout bands for at home pilates/barre in your hotel room

Pros:

  • having such a flexible schedule
  • the travel benefits
  • meeting the most amazing people of all different backgrounds
  • going to work in a good mood because I genuinely love what I do
  • LOVING WHAT I DO
  • getting to see so much of the world
  • the amount of money you save on gas
  • free parking at the airport
  • getting to help others when they’re nervous to fly
  • getting to make someone’s day (traveling is stressful! sometimes all someone needs is an extra glass of OJ and to know everything will be okay.)
  • free therapy sessions via the jump seat
  • getting paid to travel
  • getting to pack over 3 oz. liquids when traveling
  • so much me time
  • getting to stay in boujee hotels
  • getting so much vitamin D when it’s raining/snowing at home

Cons:

  • stomach/digestion issues (I take probiotics, triphala, and digestive enzymes to aid my gut)
  • lack of sleep/short layovers
  • the feeling of not having a grasp of life balance
  • lack of social life with friends and family at home when you start flying
  • schedules/routine goes out the door when you start reserve
  • when food goes bad because you don’t have a fridge in the hotel

3 Comments

TURMER-KICK TUNA SALAD RECIPE

Posted on by rosie

You’ve probably heard turmeric this, turmeric that, but what exactly is it and why do we love it so much? Turmeric comes from a root (you can find it at your local grocery store!). This herb is pretty much like magic, but backed by science. Many studies have shown that turmeric has been found to:

  • act as an antioxidant
  • be anti-inflammatory
  • aid digestion
  • boost memory
  • lift your mood
  • prevent heart problems, diabetes, and cancer

Needless to say, I like to try and sneak turmeric in EVERYTHING. By everything, I mean roasted veggies, salad dressings, cookies, tea, chicken and fish marinades, you get the idea. I am also a lover of golden milk lattes! But this recipe is one I wanted to share because 1. I have yet to see one like it and 2. IT’S FREAKING DELICIOUS. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Here’s what you need:

  • 1 can of tuna
  • 2 TBSP shredded carrots
  • 2 TBSP minced red onion
  • 1 TBSP avocado oil mayonnaise (I use Primal Kitchen Foods)
  • 1/2 finely chopped dill pickle
  • 1 TSP turmeric
  • 1 TSP paprika
  • 1/2 TSP cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 TSP tarragon
  • 1/4 TSP crushed red pepper
  • 1/4 TSP cumin
  • black pepper
  • pink salt to taste

Feel free to add more avocado oil mayonnaise as you go to achieve your ideal consistency. Subbing mayonnaise for mashed avocado is also pretty tasty! You can also sub veggies around to your liking, but I found these veggies create the perfect taste and texture! I love flexible recipes though and I encourage that you change things up until you love it. Thanks for tuna-ing in and I hope you have a fantuna-stic day!

DEAR ANXIOUS FLYER,

Posted on by rosie

It’s that time of year again. You’ve got your flights booked, your bags packed, and you know you should be excited to head home and to see your family, but sometimes that’s not always the case. If you think you’re weird for being an anxious flyer, you’re not. You are not alone. It’s a fear that is more common than I realized before I became a flight attendant. As someone who thrives off of taking care of others, I genuinely enjoy helping people stay relaxed and have a more enjoyable flying experience. It’s not always easy and every person is different. I try my best to be very understanding and compassionate. But because I know I can’t personally help every single person out there, I thought writing this post could help guide you in the right direction. Please also feel free to pass it onto any friends, family members, or anyone you know who is afraid of flying or has anxiety over flying.

TELL SOMEONE

I know it’s scary to be vulnerable, but please try your best to work up the courage to tell your neighbor or at least one flight attendant about your anxiety or fear of flying. I promise we will try our best to help you any way we can. Whenever I’ve had anxious flyers who made it known that they were nervous about taking off, I would make it a point to check in with him/her throughout the flight. I pay special attention to passengers who need it, whether that be providing a glass of water after takeoff or offering casual conversation as a distraction.

TRY MEDITATION

Meditation has been known to help relieve stress and anxiety for years. It’s no different on the plane! I would highly suggest that as soon as you get settled in your seat, immediately putting on your headphones and closing your eyes. Whether you use an app (Headspace is a great one) or simply play nature sounds or music, start meditating. I find that a lot of anxiety around traveling can stem from the madness of the airport, not just flying alone. As soon as you’re able to clear your mind and shake off the stress of TSA and running to your gate, just breathe, relax, and be present. This would also help immensely prior to taking off, which could be a scary feeling for nervous flyers.

COME PREPARED

I know those little seats on the plane don’t allow a ton of room for activities, BUT I would highly recommend packing a book you’ve been excited to read, your iPad or laptop for movies, your phone with a playlist of your favorite or new songs, etc. The airline I work for offers free movies and TV shows on all mobile devices, which is pretty amazing! But just in case the flight you’re on doesn’t offer those amenities, just make sure you have something to do! Other cool things I’ve seen people do on the plane: knitting, cross stitching, coloring, card games. Not recommended: yoga in the galley.

BRING COMFORT ITEMS

Whether it’s your favorite blanket or a picture of your dog. Bring a piece of home with you that will make you feel cozy and comforted. We sometimes underestimate the power of comfort items! As you might know, essential oils are all the rage right now but for great reason! There are some scents that have been known to help us relax: lavender, rose, chamomile, frankincense, ylang ylang, and bergamot are all great options! I just purchased a peppermint one last week (’cause ’tis the season) and personally, I find that it really relaxes me, if you want to give that a try too!

KEEP A TIMER

This might help for some people and might not for others, but keeping a timer is worth a shot! Personally, I like to know how much time is left in the flight. From a flight attendant’s perspective, it’s a gage for when we need to go out with our inflight service. From a passenger’s perspective, it’s comforting to know that landing is just another episode of Spongebob away.

WRITE A LETTER or MAKE A LIST

What are you traveling for? Who are you visiting? What are you looking forward to? Write a letter to who you’re visiting and tell them how excited you are to see them. OR alternatively, make a list of all the things you’re excited to see, do, and eat! Keeping a positive mindset will not only help distract you from your current surroundings, but our minds are so incredibly powerful. Who knows if the excitement for your travels will take over your fear of flying! Fingers crossed!

So dear anxious flyer, I really hope this post helps you in some way. A handful of people messaged me on Instagram (further proof you’re not alone) asking about this topic specifically, so I figured it might help to share this with you. Happy Holidays and safe travels to you and yours! Xo

5 Comments

SUGAR DETOX RECAP (+ RECIPES!)

Posted on by rosie

I just wanted to check in with you guys and share my experience doing a 7-day sugar detox (for the first time!) inspired by Rachael’s Good Eats. After reading her blog post on the 7-day sugar detox, I decided to give it a shot. How bad could it be right? As some of you may know, I’ve fallen into the trap of many cleanses in the past. My last cleanse was regrettably a juice cleanse and it was a bit of a disaster. However after educating myself so much more, I decided this sugar detox would be a great reset for me. The idea of maintaining your blood sugar levels is something that should be a part of your daily life – I learned this after reading Body Love by Kelly Leveque (highly recommend read). I find that avoiding sugars in the morning (replacing with healthy fats and protein instead), helps me stay energized, satisfied, and keeps me from crashing. IE: instead of having a bowl of fruit for breakfast, I’d have avocado toast or a Fab 4 Smoothie (Kelly’s Leveque’s signature swear by shake – contains protein, fat, greens, and fiber).

So since I don’t have a ton of sugar on the regs, this detox wasn’t extremely difficult for me. However, I STILL struggled every now and then but more so in social settings. It also tested my will power  when I got packages in the mail with new treats to try out from incredibly generous and wonderful companies. Confession: I actually slipped my first day because I totally forgot I was even doing the detox until I was reading the amount of sugar was in each serving. Yikes!

WHAT WORKED

Out of sight, out of mind! I found that my cravings would go away if I just avoided the sugary aisles at the grocery store. This was extremely hard though with all the holiday baking posts on Instagram. Although I will say it did get easier as the week went on!

The benefits? Personally, I experienced no crash and I didn’t have craving. This also meant less snacking! My grapefruit tasted like candy and that in itself was pretty incredible.

WHAT HELPED

Here are some quick tips if you’re looking to try a sugar detox:

  • Using pomegranate seeds in salads – just a little sprinkle but it was so satisfying!
  • Berries in oats/smoothies. They’re not as sweet as bananas and  I actually prefer the tartness in berries over bananas.
  • Bulletproof chocolate with nut butter. I craved chocolate more than I craved anything else! This is sugar detox friendly and did the trick.
  • Eating small portions of fruit and then seeing if my body wanted more before investing in the entire piece. I did this with grapefruit especially and at most, I had half at a time.
  • Cacao and cinnamon everything! For all of my chocolate lovers, it will help so much.
  • Bulletproof matcha/coffee. I prefer my coffee black anyway so by adding some brain octane and healthy fats into my morning drink, I start my day off on a good start. I tried to avoid having fruit first thing in the morning because I didn’t want it to make me feel like I needed more.
  • Lee From America’s coconut fat balls! SO DELISH.
  • Again, out of sight out of mind! If there’s a plate of cookies in front of you, move it or walk away. Don’t let it taunt you!

RECIPES

Here are some quick recipes that became staples this week! Honestly, they have become combinations of things that I enjoy and prefer them over sugary alternatives.

NO FRUIT PROTEIN SHAKE

  • 2 scoops collagen peptides (I used Vital Proteins)
  • steamed purple sweet potato
  • Trader Joes frozen kombocha squash
  • spinach
  • 2 tbsp flax meal
  • 1 tbsp cacao powder (I used Navitas Organics)
  • 2 tsp açaí powder (I used Sari Foods Company)
  • 1 tsp ashwaghandam (I used Maju Superfoods)
  • topped with Lee from America’s coconut fat ball, bee pollen, and cinnamon

QUICK POST WORKOUT SHAKE

  • 2 scoops collagen peptides
  • 2 tbsp cacao powder
  • 2 tbsp flax meal
  • 2 tsp cinnamon

OVERNIGHT OATS

  • 1/4 cup rolled oats (I used Bob’s Red Mill)
  • 1 scoop collagen peptides
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1 tbsp cacao powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Lee from America’s fat ball
  • sprinkle of blackberries
  • water

Final verdict? YES. DO IT. I am already excited to do this again in January. I felt so good after the week was through and although I thought I’d be so excited to have sugar again… I didn’t. I woke up the next morning and made my Bulletproof matcha and added one scoop of Terra Origin’s Greens Superfoods in mint and it was SO SWEET. I couldn’t believe it. My taste buds were totally in heaven. Also wanted to note, before I started the detox I wanted to bake EVERY treat on my IG feed, but now I don’t have much of a desire to. Part of that is due to laziness but I just don’t have that crazy desire to anymore.

Have you guys tried a sugar detox? I know it’s not for everyone but I’d love to know what you think!

3 Comments

GIFT GUIDE FOR EVERY SPICE IN YOUR LIFE

Posted on by rosie

The holidays are just around the corner and what better time to create a gift guide than now with all the hot deals going on? Here are some of my favorites for every spice in your life.

SPORTY SPICE

  1. adidas by Stella McCartney Yoga Bag ($110) // This collection is insanely gorgeous and one of the best things you could get someone is something they might hesitate splurging on. Save $20 using coupon code “SCORE”
  2. Healthy Human Life Stainless Steel Bottle 32 oz ($34.99) // These bottles are such amazing quality and I take mine everywhere with me. And I love that there’s every color under the sun! Use coupon code “STOCKUP” for 20% your purchase.
  3. The Balance Collection Textured Roller ($21.97) // I just recently got one of these and it changed my life! The textures on the foam roller gives you a more intense massage than your standard foam roller. You can find this baby at Nordstrom Rack and save some moolah!

HEALTHY SPICE

  1. Bulletproof Brain Octane ($23.50) // Just one of those things you aren’t sure about but would secretly squeal over if found under the tree. I once was skeptical but this stuff is amazing. And now, you can save 20% off sitewide!
  2. Pearl Butter ($19.99) // These adaptogenic butters are not only great for you, but you can also release your inner Jackson Pollock using them too! I’ve seen some pretty sick creations on Instagram and am dying to get my hands on them myself! Use coupon code “GRATEFUL” for free shipping or my friend’s code “ANDAPINCHOFLOVE” for 20% off!
  3. Sun Potion Adaptogens from ($25.57) // These adaptogenic powders will give your smoothies, coffees, matcha lattes, etc. an extra UMF. A little pricey (but worth it) so it’s always exciting to receive! My favorites are ashwaghanda, cordyceps, reishi, and chaga! And guess what? They’re currently all on sale!

GIRLY SPICE

  1. Cocokind Holiday Basics Beauty Set ($49.99) // Gift sets make for the perfect gift come holiday season because you end up saving so much on these bundles. Cocokind is a brand I discovered via some of my favorite bloggers and since using their products, I’ve never looked back. Their products are all organic and natural. And you guessed it. The gift sets are all on sale!
  2. Glossier Cloud Paint Quad ($55) // Glossier has been a cult favorite in the online beauty community for a little while now and with reason! I love that they believe in skincare before anything else. I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about these Cloud Paints, helping you achieve that natural blush all while being hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, paraben free, fragrance free, and cruelty free. Currently 20% off and free shipping sitewide!
  3. Julep Beauty Box ($39.98 for two months) // Fun fact: I used to work at Julep! I always loved the concept behind subscription boxes and Julep is unique in that you have the option of logging into your account and picking out your goodies every month. I’ve always loved that about Julep because how many times have you received a subscription box and gave away half of it? With Julep’s monthly Maven box, your girly spice can pick out what she wants! No sale, but seriously so cool.

JETSETTIN’ SPICE

  1. Fresh Nourishing Naturals Lip Duo ($25) // As a flight attendant, I especially know first hand how drying traveling can be. Your jet setter will appreciate you so much for this. Valued at $36, this is a steal!
  2. ClassPass (starting at $50) // I’ve been eyeing ClassPass for quite some time! I absolutely love the concept and get this – your traveling pal will get to drop into any classes offered in the system in ANY city with no extra charge! How cool is that?
  3. Amazing Grass Effervescent ($47.94 for a pack of 6) // I discovered these at the checkout stand at Whole Foods and it’s now one of my holy grail items. In just one tablet, you’ve got one serving of fruits and veggies. So convenient to just pop into your water bottle and get those nutrients in, especially when it’s not as easy to when you’re on the go. I love the berry flavor and plan on restocking with this sale they’ve got going! Currently on sale for 40% off plus free shipping using code “FRIDAY40”. Comes out to $4 a tube versus $10 at Whole Foods!

MAMA SPICE

  1. Groupon // I had my bestie in mind writing this. She’s going to be a new mom pretty soon and the first thing I thought of? MANIS AND PEDIS. Anything to make her feel special and give her a little break, even if it’s just an hour to herself. Purchase your vouchers on Groupon to save tons of money this holiday season.
  2. Sun Basket (starting at $80) // Takeout for new parents has got to be the best invention ever, but Sun Basket makes it easy to stay healthy while still cutting a lot of the time. They offer diet-friendly subscriptions whether you’re a vegetarian or paleo, there’s something for everybody. The best part is, these meals take only 30 minutes to make! Any new parent would appreciate this so much. Use code “BALANCED” for $35 off your purchase, courtesy of The Balanced Blonde!
  3. Everly Grey During & After Maternity Sleepwear Set (on sale from $67.38) // HOW CUTE IS THIS?! I don’t think there are truly any words for how precious (and maybe cheesy but whatevs) it is to see mama bear matching with her cub. These sets are currently on sale at Nordstrom.

I absolutely love shopping for my friends and family, especially this time of year. Hope this gift guide helps you in some way, even if it’s just planting an idea in your head with fun subscription boxes or introducing you to some of my favorite brands! Til next time, loves.