ABOUT ME
I was born and raised in the north suburbs of Chicago. I transferred to USF from a Chicago school after my sophomore year of college. After spending my first birthday on the beach (I’m a December baby), I knew there was no turning back.
I have always enjoyed visiting new places, but I think it was a trip to Greece with my husband when I realized I wanted to really start exploring places even further, learning about other cultures, languages, and customs.
A friend I went to high school with noticed all my travel photos on social media, reached out, and suggested I get into doing this for a living. I took her advice and haven’t looked back.
MY LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
For a luxury getaway in Tampa Bay, I like Opal Sands Resort & Spa and the new Opal Sol Resort. The design and layout of the hotel really help the beach and resort flow together seamlessly.
For a staycation, my favorite spot is Longboat Key, hands down. It’s here, but it’s not here — YKWIM? The beaches are perfect with soft, powder-like sand, and the new St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is a beautiful addition.
My favorite “hidden gem” spot in Tampa Bay is The Sail Plaza. It’s one of my favorite places to grab a drink and people-watch.
For a casual lunch or business meal, my favorite spot is Sweetgreen, and my go-to order is the Hot Honey Chicken Bowl.
When visitors are in town, Columbia for dinner is a must, and I’m ordering 1905 salads and a pitcher of mojitos!
I’m not a big breakfast person, but I will take an energy drink from Storm or a smoothie from BARE Blends any day.
If I were designing a family day out in Tampa, we’d probably ride bikes to Hyde Park, grab lunch at Forbici, dessert at The Hyppo, followed by a little shopping.
My favorite spot to experience art or culture in the Tampa Bay area is the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts. It’s a fun, unique experience each year. I also enjoy The Dalí Museum and the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre for live music.
For a workout, you’ll see me at Life Time or JETSET Pilates most days of the week, but I also enjoy biking on the Riverwalk when spending time outdoors.
For an evening out on the town, Hotel Bar is my favorite spot for drinks. The rooftop at the Edition is usually a fun vibe for a night out with friends.
When I’m not working, I enjoy Pilates, dinners with my girlfriends and hanging out at home with my family.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.