Allan Gardens Conservatory

I recently spent a cold January afternoon in Allan Gardens with my good friend Lauren, who has finally returned home from her travels in Oceania. The Conservatory's lush foliage and exotic greens make it a perfect place to seek refuge during Toronto's long winter months.

Allan Gardens Conservatory
19 Horticultural Avenue
Toronto, ON
M5A 2P2

Siesta Key, Florida

I've been vacationing in Siesta Key, Florida for as long as I can remember. A barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, Siesta Key is a funky little beach town on the Gulf of Mexico. My family loves it here, and for good reason: Siesta Key is warm year-round, a convenient 2.5-hour direct flight from Toronto, and the beach was rated the best in North America in 2015 (the sand is 99% pure quartz!). 

This Christmas, we forewent our usual holiday traditions to spend some quality family time in Siesta Key. After such a busy year, I am so grateful I had the opportunity to enjoy a week with no responsibilities. I read three great books (and exceeded my Goodreads Reading Challenge!); enjoyed memorable meals at Captain Curt’s, Clayton’s, and a Taste of Germany; explored Siesta Key Village and Downtown Sarasota; and successfully avoided my computer for the majority of my stay. All in all, a great way to spend the holidays. Happy New Year everyone!