A Day on the First Coast | 3 Things to do in Amelia Island and Fernandina

One of the things I love about living on the First Coast is the plethora of adventures that await us right outside our back door. From the river to the beaches there are ample things to do, places to shop, and great food to taste. Should we decide to escape the boundaries of the city there is St. Augustine just South, and Amelia Island and Fernandina just North. Tourists flock to St. Augustine every year, but Fernandina and Amelia remain a bit less congested.

Like St. Augustine, Amelia Island and Fernandina are full of history and charm, and of course that classic Southern hospitality you would expect of the region. My family recently spent the weekend there on a little mini babymoon staycation. You've heard about our stay, now learn more about what we did, and where we ate. 

What to do: 

Ft. Clinch

Admission: $6 parking $2 per person entry into Ft
Over 1,400 acre state park
Civil War Era Fort
Historic Reenactments 

Right on the water

Great for exploring with the kids

Affordable

Miles of Hiking and camping 

Amelia River Cruises

Admission: Average $22-28 for adults, $16 for children
Sunset Adult BYOB Cruises

Family Cruises

Tour the river and intercostal around Amelia Island and Cumberland Island

Pass Ft. Clinch

Pass Dolphins and wild horses

Learn more about the history of the First Coast and the families who influenced it

Where to Eat:

On the Menu:
Mayport Shrimp and Rice

Gilbert's Underground Kitchen

Average Entree: $13
Celebrity (From Top Chef Season 7) Chef Kenny Gilbert's newest creation

Soulful food with a creative edge

Line out the door goodness

Tasty brunch (make reservations)

Finger licking good BBQ
Home cooked food that doesn't feel heavy 

A restaurant that is also a think tank for top chefs visiting the area

Tons of regional inspiration and down-home goodness delivered with an elevated finesse and terrific sense of place

On the Menu:
Fried Green Tomato Sliders with Pimento Cheese
Housemade Potato Salad and Pickled Radishes

On the Menu:
Sweet Potato Turnover 

Have you experienced the charms of Fernandina and Amelia Island? What are your favorite spots to frequent? I'd love to hear about your travels in the comments section.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Watch me discuss my favorite Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach destinations on News 4 Jax Morning Show.

Part 1

Part 2

 

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Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Mama Fierce | Outfit Post | Body Con Dress

Just because you're a mom doesn't mean you can't be fierce. A lesson I learned from my first introduction into motherhood five years ago. In fact I've found that being a mom has brought out the more assertive side of my personality. Pregnancy is a perfect opportunity to rock the curves God blessed you with. That's one of the reasons I love body con maternity dresses. They're what I call "Bumptastic"!

Bump Ahead

One of the things I love about pregnancy is that it's the one time in your life you can feel good about sticking your gut out. In fact the belly is pretty much on demand. Everywhere you go folks want to see what you have to show off. 

Ruched Tank Maternity Dress • Isabella Oliver • $101–155
Jules & Jim Women's Maternity Cowl Neck Dress with Side Shirring • Jules & Jim • $22.01–30
Steve Madden Mayven Heel - Black • Steve Madden • $67.50
Giuseppe Zanotti Black Suede Sandal w/Studs • Giuseppe Zanotti • $1,250

Don't be afraid to try new things. These flash tattoos are a must have accessory for the summer. This was the first time I tried them but found they drew a lot of questions from people I knew and tons of compliments. Not only are they a built in accessory you won't forget to put on, they last a long time. These stayed on a whole week before I was forced to scrub them off. 

Flash Tattoos Josephine Tattoo Set • Flash Tattoos • $15.40
Kenneth Jay Lane Dangling Bar Earrings • Kenneth Jay Lane • $60
Paul Smith Palmer Sunglasses Wine All Eyewear • Paul Smith • $270
Jessica Mcclintock Metal Mesh Ombre Clutch • Jessica McClintock • $48
Pavé Chevron Ring - Gold • $29

You Glow Girl

Sure pregnancy does lead to that maternal glow, however I give more credit to my fav skincare Image Skincare. My favorites are The Max and the Ormedic products. Not only are they packed full of quality ingredients, they are free of harsh chemicals and preservatives. That's something mama can be proud to use. A little bronzer adds that much coveted sparkle while a bold lip brings the drama.  

Image Skincare Prevention+ Daily Hydrating Moisturizer SPF 30 • $27.16
Image Skincare Ormedic Bio Peptide Creme 2 oz • $33.98
Image Ormedic Balancing Facial Cleanser, 6 oz. • $24.46
Image Skincare The Max Stem Cell Creme, 1.7 Ounce • $56.94
Clinique High Impact Lip Colour • Clinique • $16
Chubby liner in bambi • Topshop • $12
Beach Sexy Instant Bronzing Shimmer Powder • Beach Sexy • $24

Lovely Locks 






Give your hair smooth shine and textured waves with these fabulous new products you can now find at Anthropologie.

Sachajuan Hair Ocean Mist Hawaiian Blue One Size Fragrance • Sachajuan • $31
Free Your Mane Hair Oil Pink S Fragrance • Anthropologie • $15–30

At 32 weeks there are just a few more maternity looks to come. I look forward to sharing more of my growing bump and very soon the lovely little lady preparing to make her debut.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Check out my earrings and ring from my subscription to Rocks Box. My readers are welcome to use special code amywesttravelxoxo for your first months's subscription free. It's a great way to try out new accessories to either purchase, or send back for a fresh look.

Special thanks to:

Photography- Aimee Dodds
Hair Cut and Color - Rio Hair Studio
Preggo Fitness- Momentum Fitness & Health Studios

Shop the Look

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Best Babymoons | Amy West on The Chat

If you are an expecting couple, or know someone expecting you may have heard of a Babymoon. What exactly is a "Babymoon"? It's the last big hurrah before baby comes. It's a chance for the expecting couple to escape and spend some dedicated time focused on each other. Bringing a baby into this world is a gift. One that changes life as you know it. I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate and prepare than to escape the every day norm and find each other anew amidst eye opening experiences. Recently I revealed my Top 10 picks for 10Best.com and visited The Chat talk show to discuss the top 5. Catch the highlights here. 

1. Coconut Bay, St. Lucia

All inclusive resort. 

Adult only wing available or family wing available.

The resort is full of excitement, or head off site for one of their amazing excursions around St. Lucia. 

2. Scrub Island Resort, British Virgin Islands

Marina and Spa

World Class food

Vacation Rental Style accommodations including full kitchens

Snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding

Sailing school, and boat charters available

3. Sea Ranch Lodge, Sonoma California

Located on the Pacific Coast not too far from wine country

Remote and tranquil

Miles of hiking available

Relaxing Massage 

Whale Watching

Great food

4. The Shores Resort and Spa, Daytona Beach

The only AAA four diamond rated resort in Central Florida

Newly remodeled, a shining jewel in Daytona Beach

Signature S'mores on the beach

Plenty to do around including shopping, museums, and the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse

5. Salamander Resort, Middleburg Virginia

30 min from DC

In the heart of Virginia Horse and Wine Country

Great shopping in the area

Amazing Spa

Highly praised fare

To learn more about the Top 10 read my full story here 

read my full story here

Take away: Whether near or far, look for destinations that create a unique experience and have a strong sense of place. Many great destinations feature packages just for Babymooners so make sure to check out their packages section. You may score credits for the spa and restaurants at the same rate you would book anyway. 

Tip: If you plan on getting prenatal massage check ahead and make sure they have therapists certified in prenatal massage and request what their policy is. Many spas will not work on women until they have reached their second trimester. 

Have you been on a Babymoon? If so share your experience in the comments below!

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West 

www.amywesttravel.com 

Watch me discuss Best Babymoons on The Chat

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

The Shores Resort and Spa Family Escape to Daytona Beach

Instead of one big babymoon before this little one arrives, we opted for a bit of a babymoon tour. After spending a night at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort, a few weeks later we headed over to Daytona Beach for an experience at The Shores Resort and Spa ( also featured in my 10Best Best Babymoon story). Our oceanfront room gave us a perfect view of the sparkling coastline during the day and the gorgeous full moon at night. 

What a view! The water is nice too:) 

Stylishly Up to Date

After undergoing a six month property wide update, The Shores is welcoming guests to enjoy the only AAA four diamond rated resort in the region. Everywhere you look new touches make the resort shine from the transition from double to queen beds, to new furniture indoors and out. I particularly loved the addition of 14 Cabana Suites offering a private outdoor space poolside. Our room featured plush bedding and a private balcony with a birds eye view of the Daytona Beach coastline 

Munchkin particularly liked the towel animals, previously only seen on a cruise we took. 

The Shores poolscape includes tiki bar, private cabanas, corn hole, and ocean front fire pits. 

Daytona Beach is a drive on beach. It's amazing how many giant trucks you can fit on one beach. 

Tasty Delights

On the menu:
Breakfast Buffet

Guest's will enjoy oceanfront dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at The Shores' signature restaurant Azure. Before we headed off for a day full of fun in Daytona we indulged on the breakfast buffet which is complimentary for preschoolers. Everything from chocolate chip pancakes to a delightful yogurt and fruit bar packed the buffet ensuring each individuals tastes were met. 

Good Catch Weekend

Generous helpings of fresh seafood dished out for guests. 

Our visit was timed perfectly, as it coincided with The Shore's inaugural Good Catch Seafood Festival. Food demonstrations, book signings, and one spectacular Seafood Boil made the weekend even more exciting. Even though I've lived in Florida since I was a girl this was my first seafood boil. Generous portions were dished out including crab, shrimp, sausage, and more. Live music filled the air on the pool deck as guests dined al fresco oceanside. 

Here's looking at you kid

Signature S'mores

Oceanside Signature S'mores

A trip to The Shores wouldn't be complete without a taste of their signature S'mores by the sea. Reclining near their oceanside fire pits we enjoyed conversing with other vacationers as we roasted our tasty treats. 

The perfect ending to a day by the pool and sea. 

Special Moments

Stolen kisses

From start to finish The Shores Resort and Spa is more than a destination, it's an experience. Special moments are yours to capture as you escape the stressors of your every day routine, and slip into a moment all your own. Come together, and find your fun at The Shores in Daytona Beach.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

Fashion Cravings | Outfit Post | Featuring Anthropologie

Now that I'm nearly eight months pregnant folks, I get a lot of the typical pregnant lady questions. "How far along are you?" "When are you due?" "Having a Boy or Girl?" And let's not leave out, "Any special cravings?" With my first daughter I craved spicy and tart foods like salsa and key lime pie. Pretty fitting since munchkin is quite the fiery spirit. With this baby girl, I've been craving more creamy and sweet foods like mashed potatoes, tarimisu, and after this shoot... the delicious Dulce de Leche Milkshake from Corner Taco in 5 Points. But what about fashion cravings? Read on to find out more about what I look for when I shop for maternity wear including these must have pieces from Anthropologie. 

 

Fashion Cravings

1. Quality

When it comes to maternity wear, don't skimp on quality just because it's for short term wear. You don't want to purchase pieces just to have them fall apart. Pay attention to how the designs are made and washing instructions. Function is as important as aesthetics and you'll find both with quality pieces. Just one of the reasons I love Anthropologie. 

2. Long Term Wearability

Is it possible to purchase items that will transition from maternity back into day to day post pregnancy? Sure. Look for fabrics featuring less structure and that collapse against the body. These pieces can be belted or worn loose with layers for long term use. This tunic for instance is not a maternity design but works both during and after pregnancy. 

3. Flattering Lines

Look for prints that flatter your figure and draw the eye towards your feature attraction (that baby bump). Also designs cut on the bias will hug your figure in a more attractive way. 

4. Pieces That Pop & Classic Fail Me Nots 

I like to blend my wardrobe with versatile pieces compiled classic items such as black dress pants, timeless white shirts, and seasonal layers like leggings and denim with pieces that pop like a bold statement necklace or colorful maxi. 

5. Cute Factor 

Look there is plenty to keep you feeling awkward, large, and unattractive during pregnancy. Don't settle for anything less than feeling bold and beautiful in the items you choose to purchase, that really goes for anytime, not just when expecting. 

6. Deals and Steals

Just because you need a few new items, doesn't mean you have to break the bank to stock up. Whether pregnant or not pay attention to store sale cycles. Holidays, are a great time to stock up as they usually feature great sales and further reduction on clearance items. Shop smart and look for deals and steals. A little creativity can go a long way.

Tell me what your favorite fashion cravings are in the comments or shoot me a line at info@amywesttravel.com

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Photography by Aimee Dodds

Hair Color and Cut by Rio Hair Studio

Style Suggestions

Bordeaux Jersey Swing Tunic • Bordeaux • $58

Oh baby by motherhood secret fit belly convertible pants - maternity • Oh Baby • $35

Jill Schwartz Tiered Tassel Pendant Necklace • Anthropologie • $19.95

Blu Bijoux Gold Crystal Pyramid Stud Earrings • Blu Bijoux • $24

Pavé Spear Ring - Rose Gold • $34

Zinnia Split Ring • $39

Bamboo Strappy Metallic Flat Jelly Sandals • Bamboo • $17.99

Fergalicious Sizzle T-Strap Flat Thong Sandals • Fergalicious • $34.99

Femme Couture Glossy Prime Wear Long Lasting Lip Creme Blushing Red • Sally Beauty • $7.99

Cream blush in head over heels • Topshop • $12

Shop the Look

Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .

Copyright © Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.