Puppies in Paradise | Featuring Anthropologie

This summer I proved you can go home again. The girls and I flew up to my family home in Kentucky where my dad is a cattle farmer. Clean fresh air, space to run around, and plenty of time in the pool was mom's prescription for summer time boredom. Add a litter of puppies to the mix and it was pretty much the perfect recipe for timeless summer memories. 

I grabbed this little number on sale at Anthropologie a few weeks back. Great news, it's still on sale! Catch this great deal in three different colors/prints while supplies last. I was surprised how sexy and flirty it turned out to be. The pictures I had seen online were sweet and feminine, but off the hanger the fabric hugged my curves in all the right ways. Casual enough to dress down and simple enough to style up, I loved the bright color for summer. I suggest ordering a size down.

I grabbed this t-shirt dress for Sienna at a local boutique recently and she adores it. It's super comfy and durable enough for play time. Wear it as a bathing suit cover up or a tunic, this dress is extremely versatile. She love the shoulder cut outs which add a little trendy touch to the classic black. She did a great job pairing it with a yellow accented headband for a pop of color. 

Here's that purse again. A perfect partner to the bold tangerine color of the dress.

Everyone has been asking if we brought a puppy home. No puppies for us. With all our travels it wouldn't be fair to leave the poor guy home all the time. We got our puppy love in for now, maybe next time we visit the farm it will be kittens....

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo - Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Shop the Look Here 

MIA Shoes Mia Gladiator Sandal • $59
HD in Paris Ardmore Dress • Hd In Paris • $79.95
Tory Burch York Small Saffiano-Leather Tote • Tory Burch • $245
FULL TILT Girls T-Shirt Dress • Full Tilt • $18.99
Arrowhead Ring • BaubleBar • $42
TONYMOLY Kiss Lover Lipstick • Urban Outfitters • $12

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

Marineland Dolphin Adventure | Swim With the Dolphins

On the southern stretch of St. Augustine's shoreline lies one of the historic coast's most iconic destinations. Marineland is steeped in nostalgia and cinematic lore, and it's Dolphin Adventures provide an intimate getaway for ocean lovers both young and old to experience the beauty and majesty of one of natures most intelligent creatures. The first Oceanarium to ever be built, I was surprised to learn that Marineland was the first place to both breed and train dolphins. Our family learned all this and more on our recent visit to this legendary destination.  

From Cinema to Conservation 

As the first Oceanarium of it's kind Marineland was originally conceived as an underwater movie studio named Marine Studios where camera men were able to capture revolutionary new footage of elusive marine life on film. It was the first place multiple species were placed in the same tank to coexist together. During our visit we learned that although the concept of Marineland was designed for filming, the purpose ultimately changed to one of education and conservation. For the first time the public saw ocean life up close and had the chance to gain knowledge on how to help protect them in the wild. 

Revenge of the Creature had scenes filmed at Marineland. This was one of several films shot on site. 

Evolving Through Time

Marineland originally opened in the 1930s and experienced a large public following for many decades. As time and technology advanced the programming at Marineland began turning towards a new era in it's existence. During an active hurricane season in the early 2000s, Marineland made the decision to close down temporarily, rebuild it's facility and restart it's dolphin program as one based more upon education and interactive experiences rather than dolphin shows. 

Today visitors can get up close and personal with the 14 Atlantic Bottle Nose dolphins that call Marineland home through a variety of experiences. Our family enjoyed the popular Touch and Feed experience where we got to feed and pet one of the gentle dolphins residing in the 1.3 million gallon facility. Guests could also be seen swimming with the dolphins in a total immersion program (totally envy worthy), as well as touring behind the scenes through historic memorabilia and Marineland's private aquarium collection. 

The Touch and Feed program allows guests to experience a dolphin up close and personal. 

During our visit we were able to connect with one of Marineland's dolphins in a magical moment we will always remember. 

The Future is Bright

The future is bright for Marineland as it's new mission is attracting young and old alike. In addition the Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta's famous downtown aquarium) acquired Marineland in 2011 ensuring future development and a larger network of support. Projects like Neptune park which houses their breeding tank of rare sharks, as well as several sea turtle tanks, will now continue to see future growth as an additional attraction on the grounds. 

After 20 plus years of living in North Florida I can't believe I had never visited Marineland. Our visit to this iconic destination was as eye opening as it was inspiring. We can't wait to return and swim with the dolphins next time!

Until then...

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

Tips:

• Marineland is entirely outdoors. Plan for weather accordingly. It was a warm day when we went and I was grateful we scheduled our activities earlier in the day. 

• The facility is wheelchair and stroller friendly. 

• General admission gets you in to see the dolphins and Neptune Park where the sea turtle tanks and shark tanks are housed. More interactive experiences are available at a variety of price points. 
• Children must be over the age of 3 to participate in the touch and feed program.

* Special thanks to Marineland's Terran McGinnis for the hours she spent educating us on Mainland's rich history and present day efforts. 

We were guests of Marineland, however all opinions on the blog are completely my own.
Want to be featured on Amy West Travel? Contact us today at info@amywesttravel.com .
Copyright © 201620162016 Amy West Travel. All rights reserved. Photography by Journey Productions Media.

RISE Gear | An Elevated Packing Solution

If you're like me, you may find yourself stuck in the same ole pattern of unorganized chaos when you pack and unpack your travel bags. Rolling up your clothes to avoid wrinkles and save space is great and travel compartments sure help, but when it comes down to it, wouldn't it be great to pack and unpack just once? To have easy access to everything you need with one zip? I'm smitten with my latest travel find and I think you'll be too. RISE Gear's travel solution is so simple and completely perfect it will have you asking "Why didn't I think of that"? 

The RISE Gear Jumper bag is affordably priced at $99

Easy Come Easy Go

When it comes down to it, we would all like to spend the least amount of time we can packing and unpacking. There are too many other pressing matters to attend to in this life (like that glass of wine calling your name) besides spending hours organizing your bag. RISE Gear's clever design gives you more time to spend doing what you love, whether that be enjoying some much needed leisure time, or jumping right into the adventure that awaits on your next trip. After you initially pack your bag, simply unzip and hang up in your hotel closet or on the back of a door. Off you go, you are finished unpacking. 

Everything Has Its Place

As my mom so lovingly hammered into my head as a youth, "Everything has its place".  Now that I'm an adult, these words are music to my ears. Seriously I think I spend 40% of my life just organizing stuff. Granted, much of that is my kids stuff, but still, I'm thankful I can spend one less minute worrying about where to put stuff. RISE Gear makes it easy for you with this simple guide above, or you can go rogue and do whatever feels right. There is plenty of room for everything you need from shoes and toiletries, to undergarments, shirts, and pants. You can see how I packed my "Jumper" bag here. I mixed it up a little according to my own preferences. The Jumper is designed as a weekender so you can see I was able to fit in a few outfits including nightwear, and work out gear as well as shoes, my makeup bag, and of course, my nook. I also love that they even included a space for your dirty items right below. As the shelves empty out, the bottom fills up. Then you just fold it down and zip it up when it's time for the next leg of your trip. 

Easy Access to All You Need

If you are worried about last minute necessities being easily available, fear no more! I was pleased with the easy access inside the RISE Gear Jumper. Love the concept but wish there was a quicker solution for those who already have luggage they don't want to part with? You're in luck. RISE Gear not only has full size bags and weekenders, they also sell just the shelving inserts so you can transform your favorite bag into a RISE Gear bag. 

I don't know about you, but I'll take all the help I can get turning my next trip into a swifter process. Spend more time doing what you love and less time packing and unpacking. RISE Gear products are affordably priced for the every day traveller giving access to this elevated travel gear to all. 

What's your favorite design? Will you grab a shelving insert for your designer label, or jump right in with one of RISE Gear's intelligent designs? I'd love your feedback in the comments below. 

Until Then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo - Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

* The Jumper Rise Gear bag was gifted to me, however the opinions in this blog are all my own.
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.

Coastal Boho | What I'm Wearing | Featuring Anjolee

It's festival season. That means it's time to strap on your favorite gladiators and slip into something soft and breezy. Whether you're headed to your favorite music fest, or simply a walk on the beach, this look is perfect for hot summer days full of fun in the sun. Easily one of my most complimented looks on the street to date, I think the attraction of this look lies in it's effortless simplicity. 

These gladiators go with just about anything in my summer wardrobe, and this bright yellow handbag makes a statement everywhere it goes. 

I love the peek a boo back on this little number by On the Road, it gives a new meaning to the phrase "party in the back". I found it at local Jacksonville Beach boutique Blush, but I've included a few similar choices below. Shoes and bag can also be found at Blush along with the necklace. 

This Panama Hat is pretty much a staple in my summer line up along with my Versace sunnies and this wrap leather bracelet. I'm sure my new bag will just plenty of air time as well. 

The ideal piece to polish off this chic look are my new studs by Anjolee. Creating custom pieces for every budget Anjolee was formed in the 1960s and became well known for their tennis bracelet designs. I've been searching for the perfect studs to go with my 10 yr anniversary band from the hubby and these couldn't be more perfect. 

What's your favorite summer fashion trend? Share in the comments below. I love to hear from you.

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo- Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com 

Special thanks to Rio Hair Studio for my cut and color.
Special thanks also to Tara Clemons for taking these awesome photos.

Knockout Dress ~ Leafy Luxe White • MUMU • $100
Betsey Johnson FESTIVAL GIRL BELL SLEEVE BOHO DRESS • Betsey Johnson • $148
Umgee USA Boho Pattern Dress • Umgee USA • $70
Tory Burch York Small Saffiano-Leather Tote • Tory Burch • $98–245
Topshop 'Farewell' Gladiator Sandals (Women) • Topshop • $68
Panama hat • $58
Topshop Suede Coin Tassel Necklace • Topshop • $22
Versace 55mm Cat Eye Sunglasses • Versace • $200
FOREVER 21 Tassel Charm Beaded Bracelet Set • Forever 21 • $5.90

Shop the Look Here

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.

American Gator Club | Where I'm Eating

If you are looking for a great place to dine al fresco that will surprise and inspire, head over to the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa and find a seat at the American Gator Club. Situated in the heart of Ponte Vedra Beach, this new outdoor restaurant is Sawgrass Marriott's most recent addition to it's multi million dollar reinvention. The new pool deck invites resort guests and locals alike to enjoy the waterfront view of TPC's stadium course and dine in style under Executive Chef Joe Natoli's tasteful care. If you've had the pleasure of dining at Vernon's, Alice and Pete's Pub, or 619 Ocean View recently you will know that the menu's have all been updated across the board for a more regional cuisine directed towards a modern palate. American Gator Club is no exception, providing a more casual setting to satiate your appetite in addition to affordable price points for tasty treats worthy of fine dining sensibilities. Here's a glimpse into what's in store when you visit. 

On the Menu:
Specialty Cocktails
Gator Punch and White Sangria

Perfectly refreshing after a hot day by the pool, or perhaps conquering the legendary holes on the Stadium course, AGC's specialty cocktail menu will have you swooning. Fresh batches of Gator Punch and White Peach Sangria are crafted daily for thirsty revelers, while fruit, rum, and plenty of bubbly concoctions round out the mixed menu. 

On the Menu:
Chili Glazed Gator Nugget Tacos

It wouldn't be right if the American Gator Club didn't offer gator right? In honor of it's name, and in answer to the regions passion for handhelds, the AGC's menu includes these tasty gator nugget tacos.    Crispy, and perfectly balanced with a combination of sweet and spicy, these gator tacos pack a major crunch and go down fast. Order as your meal, or as an appetizer, in which case you might need to make it two orders because you won't want to share! These are truly crave worthy. 

Dine with a view of TPC's famous Stadium Course

On the Menu:
Chili Lime Shishito Peppers
Buffalo Style St Johns Cauliflower
Brisket Nachos

Far exceeding the average hotel pool deck tiki bar, the American Gator Club features hand crafted drinks, generously portioned sandwiches and handhelds, quality salads, and creative small bites. Cohesive with the reformation of all the restaurants on site, AGC ingredients are driven by locally procured produce and menu selections are inspired by regional fare. You'll find pimento cheese, brisket, and plenty of smokey Southern trademarks utilized in the creation of each dish.

On the Menu:
House Guacamole

On the Menu:
Superfood Salad

I think we can all agree that generally, pool deck restaurants don't exactly excel in the area of salads. Not so at AGC. This super food salad is just one of the exceptional choices on the menu which features plenty of healthy options to balance out the more decadent selections available. 

On the Menu:
The "Swamp Cuban"

Speaking of decadent options, this Swamp Cuban tops the list. Executive Chef Joe Natoli spent 15 years in Miami, becoming well acquainted with the regions staple "Cuban" sandwich. In a clever nod to his past, the Chef reconstructs the classic in this swamp version piled with smokey pulled pork, ham, and house made pimento cheese. A must try! 

An inside look at the Swamp Cuban 

On the Menu:
Swamp Burger
made with Angus Beef 

Breezy outdoor seating, a creative menu, and sense of place all it's own, the American Gator Club is one of my new favorite dining destinations in the North Florida region. Taste and see for yourself how inventive the Chef and his crew are getting when you visit Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa for your next meal. 

Until then...

Enjoy the Journey!

xo - Amy West

www.amywesttravel.com

If you enjoy my blogging on food, fashion, family, fitness, and fabulous destinations then I'd love it if you would share my posts. With your help I'll cover even more territory as we seek out new adventures every day!

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.