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McAfee Knob, Virginia. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

McAfee Knob: The Appalachian trail most photographed spot

Written by Caro on May 21, 2021. Posted in North America, United States. 2 Comments on McAfee Knob: The Appalachian trail most photographed spot

The McAfee Knob hike offers a 270-degree panorama view that will be imprinted in your mind forever.

One day after scrolling through my favorite social media platform, I stumbled upon these breathtaking pictures of McAfee Knob; I immediately decided to add it to my bucket list hikes – which lately is becoming longer and longer. McAfee Knob is undoubtably the most photographed spot along the Appalachian Trail and when you reach the top of the summit it’s easy to see why.

The top of McAfee Knob provides a 270-degree panorama view of the Catawba Valley and North Mountain to the west, Tinker Cliffs to the north and the Roanoke Valley to the east. The view is absolutely stunning all around; the blue hued mountains endlessly flowing into the horizon will leave you breathless as you take in the immensity of the landscape.

McAfee Knob is part of Virginia’s famous Triple Crown of memorable hikes along the Appalachian mountains and is rounded out by the Dragon’s Tooth Trail and Tinker Cliffs. We haven’t hiked these two trails yet, but they are already on our list for the fall. McAfee Knob is located on the Catawba Mountain which has an elevation of almost 3200 feet. It’s a moderate to difficult hike which has become really popular in the last couple of years, drawing large crowds from different parts of the U.S.

Our itinerary

We drove from Washington DC to Roanoke in the late afternoon, as the drive is approximately 3:30 hours, and stayed the night at the Hampton Inn Roanoke-Hollins hotel. While Roanoke is a gorgeous city, we wanted to wake up early the next morning to do the hike and this hotel was a short 15-minute drive from McAfee Knob. We had read that the hike can get really crowded in the day and parking is very limited; we decided to wake up around 6:30 am to make sure we could get good pictures.

Important information about parking

Remember, space in the parking lot is limited at the trailhead and you are not allowed to park along Route 311 – we saw lots of police cars write ticket and others towed. You will need to cross Route 311 to start the trail. Even at 7:00 am the parking lot was almost full, so I highly recommend that if you are hiking this trail you go early in the morning. Going early has an added benefit of enjoying peace and quiet during the hike.

Trust me, you will want to avoid having to wait for a long time until a spot becomes available. Alternatively, if you have been waiting for a long time, consider hiking other nearby trails – there are plenty!

Tip: Many hikers go early to McAfee Knob to catch the amazing sunrise at the summit.

The trail

The trail is approximately 8.8 miles return trip, and not that difficult. However, there are some areas with elevation during the trip so be prepared for a good sweat. For the return, we took the old fire road (approximately 1.4 miles from the knob) which cuts the hiking time, and is a significantly easier trail (very much a beginner level). It will take you approximately 4 hours to complete the hike – this obviously depends on your fitness level and how much time you want to spend taking in the scenery once you reach the top.

McAfee Knob

The view from the top is absolutely stunning so spend some time taking in the majestic landscape all around. People are really courteous, and they will give you time to get to the knob and take pictures. Don’t rush down. Honestly, these images speak for themselves, and any attempt at describing this natural wonder would be completely lacking.

What to bring

This is a moderate to difficult hike so come prepared. We recommend you bring:

Hiking shoes: Bring comfortable hiking shoes because there’s nothing worse than getting blisters or painful feet in the middle of a hike. We recommend Salomon Men’s Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoes – which provides lightweight cushioning and stability along with an aggressive grip. This is the women version: Salomon Women’s Speedcross 4 Cs Trail Running Shoe.

Water: Bring a bottle of water to quench your thirst during the hike. We recommend the Brita Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle, as it’s lightweight and will keep your water cool.

Sunscreen: Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen; on the summit there are trees, but not a lot of shade. I recommend Supergoop! SPF 40.

Hat: I recommend The North Face Washed Norm Hat to protect you from the sun.

Dress in layers: When we hiked McAfee Knob it was quite cold in the early morning but as we started the hike up, the trek had us feeling warm. Make sure you dress in layers so you can adjust to the temperature and you don’t feel too cold or too warm.

Natural Bridge

If you are driving from Washington DC or a nearby city, stop by the Natural Bridge on your way back – it’s a quick pit stop at a national park, and you can get a bite to eat at one of the nearby local restaurants. The Natural Bridge is a huge and breathtaking rock bridge with a pacific river cutting through.

This is another one of those parks where words will not do it any justice, and once you see it in person it’s an image you’ll never forget. There is an area with chairs on the other side of the bridge in case you want to sit to take in this natural beauty. This pit stop will take you approximately 30 minutes to complete as the bridge is really close to the entrance.

Location: From I-81, take exit 175 or 180A to U.S. 11 and follow signs to the park.

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Georgetown, Washington DC. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela Georgetown, Washington DC. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

The best things to do in Georgetown, DC

Written by Caro on May 19, 2021. Posted in North America, United States. 4 Comments on The best things to do in Georgetown, DC

Check out this blog for the best things to do in Georgetown, DC – a classic neighborhood of Washington.

Georgetown is among the oldest neighborhoods in Washington DC; it’s iconic stature makes the neighborhood a classic location in the city. With its historic charm, cobblestone and tree-lined streets, and gorgeous federalist houses that capture the imagination, this neighborhood offers a perfect setting for a great DC style weekend.

In DC, weekends are sacred, and locals flock to Georgetown to get brunch, dinner or enjoy the nightlife. Needless to say, during the weekend, this neighborhood gets really busy, but that shouldn’t stop you from soaking up the experience. Georgetown offers a bit of everything for everyone: plenty of high end design and clothing stores if you want to shop; fancy and iconic restaurants to grab a bite to eat; and lots of parks to exercise or relax with friends.

In a way, Georgetown is a neighborhood of contrasts. You can find tiny houses – which seem more appropriate for dolls than for humans – next to million-dollar mansions. You can be in the midst of tranquility and only hear the birds chirping or find yourself strolling down the noisy bustling M street. You have students from Georgetown University packing the local bars, or millionaire lobbyists from Capitol Hill dining at some of the city’s best restaurants. The Georgetown experience is different for every visitor, but it is the most beloved neighborhood for Washingtonians.

Featured tours

Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss when visiting Georgetown:

Visit the Old Stone House

The Old Stone House is a rare example of pre-revolutionary American architecture. Built in 1766, it is the oldest standing building in Washington, DC. The house, originally built by Christopher Layman, a local cabinetmaker, was used both as a residence and shop until it was purchased by the U.S. Government in 1953.

The house is small, and it’s a quick visit. However, the best part is the quiet gardens – surprising as they are right off busy M Street. Here you will find people enjoying a book and passing time as well as friendly dogs playing with each other. The Old Stone House is located at 3051 M Street in Georgetown. It’s open daily and the closest metro stop is Foggy Bottom. Admission is free.

Tip: Georgetown does not have a metro stop – you either have to get off at Rosslyn and walk across the Key Bridge, or get off at Foggy Bottom, the first stop in DC. Both are equidistant from Georgetown but offer different photo opportunities.

Stroll along the C&O Canal

The canal in Georgetown, Washington DC. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Only a few blocks away from bustling M street, the C&O canal offers a perfect spot to walk or bike and enjoy the tranquility that emanates from this canal. The C&O canal is among my personal favorite photo spots in Georgetown, and in spring and fall the pictures are breathtaking. As you walk alongside the canal, you’ll have easy access to many great restaurants (everything from classic French to our favorite Pizza to mind blowing sushi) to ease through the weekend afternoon.

The canal has been undergoing repairs for the last couple of years in order to restore it back to the glory years when boats would lazily sail through; but it’s still possible to take wonderful photos.

Climb up the Exorcist steps

This is the iconic Georgetown experience that is a must do regardless if you are a first-time visitor or longtime resident. At the corner of 36th and Prospect streets, you will find the 75 terrifying steps featured in the movie The Exorcist where Father Karras tumbles down to his death. No matter when you go, and please save yourself the nightmares and go during the day, you will be very creeped out. These stairs have their own personality, and become terrifying during Halloween. Despite the devil possessed history, locals love to go up and down these stairs to break a sweat so thankfully you will not be by yourself!

Tip: A block away from the top of the stairs is another Georgetown institution – The Tombs. This classic bar has a history almost as long as the university and is a frequent watering hole for students and Washingtonians alike.

Explore the waterfront

Georgetown’s waterfront offers activities for different tastes. You can leisurely stroll the riverside, engage in some boating or enjoy the nightlife this legendary spot has to offer. If going up and down The Exorcist stairs wasn’t enough for you, you can rent either a kayak, canoe or paddleboat right at the waterfront to navigate the placid waters of the Potomac. You’ll find many locals who tie up yachts on sunny days to relax (and party) the weekend away.

The waterfront is perfect to take some pictures of the Kennedy Center, the DC skyline with the infamous Watergate, and the Potomac river. If you prefer eating than exercising, there are quite a few options to replenish energy after a few hours strolling along the charming streets of Georgetown. In summer, and whenever the weather is moderately nice, patio seating is available so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery while eating or having a few beers.

Tip: This is a great spot to get lost in relaxation, you’ll have plenty of amazing restaurants all along the waterfront, and classic Georgetown bars that are always open. Check out Tony & Joes for an afternoon drink.

Get lost in the neighborhood’s colorful streets

Georgetown, Washington DC. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

One of my favorite things to do while I am in Georgetown is to stroll along its quaint streets and admire the colorful houses. Each house has its own personality and style, ranging from color to façade to size (there are a couple which are haunted!). Some are tiny and look almost like fairy tale houses and others evoke the US colonial grandeur.

The famous chef/author Julia Child taught cooking lessons while living at 2706 Olive Street in the 1950s and even John F. Kennedy lived in at 3307 N Street while he was running for president. Georgetown’s houses are full of wonder and secrets, you’ll never know what bit of history you will uncover as you walk down the cobbled streets.

Visit Georgetown University

Georgetown University. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution of higher learning in the United States. You will immediately be walking in the footsteps of countless generations of students, some who are as famous as ex-presidents and actors or sports legends, but each step will uniquely be yours as the university has plenty to explore. Frankly, this is one of the most iconic places in Georgetown and is usually featured alongside the monuments in any movie with Washington DC as its setting.

Stop by Healy Hall, one of the centerpieces of the University. With its Romanesque architecture, Healy Hall will definitely impress you. Take some time to stroll through campus, sit under one of the countless trees and read a book by one of the university’s alumni.

Dumbarton Oaks

Located in one of the historic sections of Georgetown, Dumbarton Oaks is one of the neighborhood’s crown jewels. It was formally the home of Robert and Mildred Bliss, two Washingtonian philanthropists and art collectors.

Currently, the residence is open to the public as a museum, which houses one of the world’s premier collections of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art. In fact, each of the galleries that house the collection are themselves works of art – tapestries and paintings which adorn the Renaissance inspired Music Room, or the stunningly bright Pre-Columbian Gallery, are just a few that come to mind. You will not only have the chance to view ancient art, but the museum hosts a variety of innovative special exhibitions throughout the year.

What is an absolute can’t miss is the garden, which was designed by renowned landscape gardener Beatrix Farrand, and is a true oasis within Washington DC. Comprised of sixteen acres (!!!) you will be welcomed by terraced gardens and magnificent vistas, orchards and kitchen gardens. Within this massive garden, you can truly get lost in a labyrinth of beautiful meadows and wooded pathways.

Ocean City pier. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela Ocean City pier. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

What to do in Ocean City, MD

Written by Caro on April 29, 2021. Posted in North America, United States. 4 Comments on What to do in Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, Maryland, is more than just another one of those beach towns that dots the Delmarva peninsula. With 10 miles of beach, a boardwalk that’s been around since 1902, and wild horses, this is a town you cannot miss when visiting the eastern shore.

I’ve been spending summers since my childhood in Ocean City, skating the boardwalk, surfing or my go to activity – relaxing on the beach. I can still remember walking with my dad a few times to get soft serve ice cream during the salty summer nights, waking up early to race to the beach with my friends with towels tied around our neck as capes to not miss a minute of fun, or discovering the rollercoaster effects of teenage summer love. Even today, my wife and I go every summer weekend and have built our own memories ready to tell our children.

Ocean City has a deep history within my heart, full of idyllic summers. In fact, it etches a permanent place in each person’s soul who steps on its sandy shores.

What to do in Ocean City

Ocean City pier. Credit: Carolina Valenzuela

Boardwalk:

The Boardwalk is literally the town foundation – built in 1902, the wooden boards were hand-laid around the original town, now called Downtown OC. This is a classic wooden boardwalk which has been featured in both the Travel Channel and Nat Geo, calling it one of the country’s best as it leads down to the town’s most popular beach.

Whether you want to stroll, skate or bike down the boardwalk there is a ton to do. Dotted with great restaurants, snack joints, and bars it is a perfect spot to freshen up while not skipping the beach. You can eat what Ocean City is famous for – crab cakes, fried chicken, Thrasher’s fries and pit beef – but also eat Eastern Shore traditions like world class saltwater taffy and classic ice cream parlors (Dumser’s and Dolle’s).

It’s also the place where you come to have fun. The boardwalk has some great carnival rides, the original carousel from the turn of the century, and most importantly it’s the hub of the city’s nightlife. You can feel the energy on the boardwalk impact everyone on a summer night.

This is the most “instagramable” location where you can catch the sunrise under the pier and the neon lights of the Ferris wheel dazzle in the night sky.

Tip: Don’t skip the funnel cake when you are at the boardwalk, it’s a must have classic of Americana.

Beach:

This is the star of the show and you will not be disappointed. Personally, I treat a beach day like an office day – I get there at 9 and stay till 6 relaxing and soaking up some rays. There are few places in the world that evoke such strong feelings for me and hitting the beach does just that. I tend to plan my summer trips around beaches, and Ocean City is definitely one of those places where I never miss a summer.

Ocean City has 10 miles of public beaches, some are less crowed than others – the Boardwalk beaches are packed and rowdy, while the beaches by the state line are more family oriented. There is plenty to do – surf, swim, play ball or just relax and do nothing but enjoy the moment. However, the coolest beach is a short drive away – Assateague Island, where wild horses roam free.

Assateague Island:

Wild horses will not drag you away from this national park situated just minutes from your beach rental. When you arrive you’ll be welcomed by miles of sandy beaches, sunbathing horses and crashing waves – this park literally changes every day due its proximity to the ocean, so no two visits are exactly the same. This park is wild, from the beaches to the flora and fauna, with little resources for the weekender – you will need to bring everything for the day, including food and beach gear. However, the park also offers lots of outdoor activities if you want to get on the move and explore.

This is the best place in OC to take once in a life-time photos, and the sunrise/sunsets make the experience even more memorable. Personally, I like to go early in the morning to catch the horses playing in the water before the crowds arrive. This pristine beach will also provide some shots that are worthy of framing on your wall to remember your trip. Make sure your iPhone is fully charged or pack a car charger in case your battery starts to run low.

Tip: You will need to pay an entrance fee, but if you plan to come to the island more than once get a season pass, it pays for itself very quickly. Check out the park fees here.

Nightlife:

To me the holy trinity of nightlife in OC is Seacrets, Mackys and Fager’s Island, all located within a 10 block span (about 5-10 minutes walking) on the bay side. Fager’s is a great place to get some killer food, watch the sunset with the 1812 overture blasting out of speakers and dance the night away to a DJ spinning tunes or 90’s cover band.

Seacrets is an institution in OC and while lines can get long it’s worth the wait. The entire bar/club is a massive beach bar, where you can have drinks on floating tables in the water while reggae beats saturate the air. Frankly, I love this place, and you can go any time of day. In fact, the day time beach party is very different from the chill islands vibes in the evening. Mackys is a low key version of Seacrets, where you can get a cold beer and play classic drinking games on their intimate beach every hot summer night.

There are plenty of other places to enjoy the night, but make sure you check out places near the boardwalk like Fish Tales, the bars on the Marina, and De Lazy Lizard – all of these are great open air bars playing the latest hits of the summer. For those who want a laid back country vibe, check out Cowboy Coast, an entire block of different clubs where you can catch a live show where Nashville’s rising stars will make an appearance each summer.

Other fun stuff:

Ocean City offers lots of outdoor activities where you can spend the day on the water – take sightseeing water tours via catamarans, or if you want to be on your own you can rent kayaks and jet skis to take on the bay. And it’s hard not to mention the best thing to do on the beach – surfing! This is one of the best spots in the mid-Atlantic for waves.

Of course, you don’t need to be on the water to have fun. Ocean City has renowned golf courses if you want to hit the links, or you can stop by Ocean Downs Casino to try your luck!

Where and what to eat

Crabs and crab cakes: Maryland’s most iconic dishes, the bushel of crabs or jumbo lump crab cakes can be found pretty much anywhere in OC.

I personally love the crab cakes at Fager’s Island and Crab Cake Factory, but for crabs served on yesterday’s newspaper and a can of Natty Bo, I go out of my way to West Ocean City’s Crabs to Go. If you don’t want to drive out of the main strip, go to On the Bay Seafood but go early because the lines are long and the supplies are limited.

Seafood/Sushi: Obviously, seafood is everywhere you look and there is LOTS of competition. Check out Hooked and Tailchasers as they source their products from the local area and are sea-to-table restaurants. For a more casual vibe where you can enjoy after dinner drinks and fun, go to Ropewalk or Fishtales. The best place, hands down is Waterman’s in West OC as it doubles as a seafood market and eatery. For Sushi, ignore all the other spots and go straight to OC Wasabi. Show up on an empty stomach and gorge.

Pizza: Grotto’s Pizza is the only name you need to remember. I used to travel 30 minutes out of OC to Rehoboth to get a slice and now they have two locations in the city, one on the Boardwalk and the other on the Northside.

Tip: The best fried chicken is at one of the best seafood restaurants/markets in the city. Stop by Waterman’s in West OC and get a bucket or two of the best chicken you’ll eat. You can also get some killer no frills BBQ a few minutes away at Smoker’s BBQ Pit on route 611.

Where to stay in Ocean City

Ocean City offers lodging choices to fit everyone’s needs and style. You can stay at top of the line hotels with literally steps to the beach or a private marina by the bay, rent a beach bungalow, or you can even get off the grid and stay on one of the many campgrounds located around OC. With so many different choices available, here are three hotels that are conveniently located.

Commander Hotel & Suites is directly located on the Ocean City boardwalk just steps from the beach. You’ll be a short walk from the most popular part of the boardwalk, surrounded by restaurants and a lively nightlife. Originally opened in 1930, this hotel has evolved throughout its history – once hosting clambakes on the beach and the best dinner theater experience in town – to become on of the city’s top resorts. The location can’t be beat; the hotel is an Eastern Shore classic with lots of space (fitting up to 6 people in some rooms) and two pools – indoor and outdoor.

The Coconut Malorie: When this hotel opened it was the first real luxury hotel in OC, decorated with a stunning British colonial motif. It welcomed you with a massive marble lobby and each floor painted in a Matisse style featuring wildlife of the former colonies, but the coolest part was the library located in the top of the hotel’s tower. Today, the hotel has gone through recent renovations, keeping up with current trends, but still holds that glamorous mystique. With a host of amenities to enjoy, you can still go to the library and enjoy stunning views of the bay.

Princess Royale Oceanfront Resort, the furthest from downtown but by far the largest and most family-oriented hotel this feels more like a resort than typical lodging. Located right on the beach it also conveniently houses a massive 4 story atrium with an indoor pool and bar where you can sip a few cocktails during your break from the sun. It’s perfect for families, as kids will love all the features the atrium offers. The hotel also offers some of the largest accommodations in OC giving you privacy and a kitchenette if you feel inclined to cook. It also includes an ultra-exclusive club-level accommodation where guests enjoy a full-service dedicated team, private ocean front lounge and lots of high-class offers.