Abroad in Your Inbox Vol. 44

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HOLA FROM PUERTO RICO!

It’s my first time to the island and I’m already making plans to come back because there is SO much to see and explore. I’m here on a short work trip with a fellow gal pal and travel advisor scoping out some hotels for our respective travel agencies which means LOTS of time touring and experiencing resorts for clients.

And while I do love a luxurious lounging by the pool trip at some of the islands best resorts - Puerto Rico also has SO much to offer visitors that I feel 4 days here was not enough time. From the natural wonder that is their Bioluminescent Bay and the El Yunque National Forest to the wild horses that run around Vieques island and the colorful buildings that bring Old San Juan to life. Puerto Rico is truly a destination that deserves at least a week if you want to truly dive into its beauty.

GETTING HERE: Puerto Rico is SO easy to get to from Chicago (just about a 4 hour direct flight) and the entire COVID entry process was honestly the most seamless experience I’ve had since traveling during COVID. Plus it’s nice that you don’t have to test on return like you will in other Caribbean destinations. About 80% of the island is vaccinated and they take masking & COVID protocols VERY seriously (you’re asked for your vaccine card at hotels, bars & restaurants).

I’ll be putting a destination guide together but until then here’s some recs to hold you over:

  • For a blissfully relaxing stay where your days are filled with massages, long walks in nature, lounging by the pool or reading a book beachside - you have to check out the luxe St. Regis Bahia Beach

  • If you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere, pool parties and one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico & you want to be closer to Old San Juan - look at the Fairmont El San Juan

  • For a mind blowingly delicious, elevated Puerto Rican meal you HAVE to snag a reservation at Jose Enrique. This was easily my favorite meal of the entire trip and the chef has done a phenomenal job of showcasing the islands classic dishes.

  • Be sure to walk around Old San Juan because the colorful buildings are STUNNING - pop into La Factoria for some of the best cocktails on the island.

More to come, but if it wasn’t before, put Puerto Rico on your must visit list - especially in January and February (the weather has been PERFECTION in the 80s every day)

IF YOU’RE NEW HERE, HEY!!! Abroad in Your Inbox is a weekly collection of news articles, blog posts, products, podcasts, videos & anything else that’s on the interwebs that will help you navigate this new era of travel, reignite your wanderlust, help you plan a future trip & hopefully leave you with a little smile.

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THE LATEST

I’M HOSTING A LIVE CLOSET SALE WITH AT ONE BOUTIQUE TUESDAY 2/1 AT 5:30 P.M. CST

I haven’t hosted a sale since September (GASP!) & I’m ready to CLEAR SH*T OUT! There will be a mix of winter and spring/summer pieces and some shoes and accessories. Everything will be fixed prices and sizes xs-m, 4-8, 27-28, a few size 9 shoes. A portion of the proceeds will be going to charity & I’m thinking the first hour will be DEEP discounts ;)

If you want to shop, all you have to do is click here to register!

IN TRAVEL

  1. While I’d like to believe that winter is coming to a close…that’s just wishful thinking and the realities of snow mixed with flights can sometime be quite the headache… here’s how aircraft deal with the dangers of snow and ice

  2. Major events that have been canceled over the past two years are BACK (Coachella & Mardi Gras anyone?!) But what will these massive events look like in a COVID world.

  3. Airports Are Creating Inclusive Quiet Spaces Where All Travelers Can Find Calm

  4. What to Know If You Need to Renew Your U.S. Passport Right Now

  5. Omicron update: When will international travel return? A country-by-country guide to coronavirus recovery

WHAT I PACKED

  1. THE BEACH BAGS I LOVE - I bought this bag last summer and while this specific style is no longer in stock, I LOVE the design and the quality. They’re well made and perfect for throwing in all your beach necessities.

  2. MY FANCY FEATHER SLIDES - If you’re looking for some party shoes these are certainly it (plus they’re pretty comfy)

  3. EVERYTHING FARM RIO - If I had to pick one brand to wear for the rest of my life it would be Farm Rio (they plant a tree in the amazon for every purchase). I rented this dress from Rent the Runway and it’s the PERFECT tropical vacay dress (PS my code for Rent the Runway is RTRALLEP it gets you 50% off two months before the end of the month. I also packed this cutie which just so happens to be on sale ;)

  4. PS HERE’S ALL THE THINGS I NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT

HAPPY ENDING

Here’s the reel that inspired The Trip Whisperer to post her very first reel (co-starring & co-produced by yours truly hahaha)

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Adventure Awaits!

xx Allecat

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