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The Juggling Act

A woman's guide to finding the elusive balance with fitness, food, family, and SELF!

Categories: Travel

Stay in a Castle in the United States

Castles are old, large structures that were used hundreds of years ago in Europe. They were built to be both homes for the nobles that lived there and a fortress to provide protection from enemy invasions. The first ones were built around the tenth century and over the centuries, they grew larger and more sophisticated. Most castles were created using stone which was found in certain areas in Europe, but later in time, bricks were also incorporated in constructing some castles. Most castles were protected by various fortification additions such as a water-filled moat, an iron or thick wood door, and massive stone walls.

photo of neuschwanstein castle
Photo by Виктория on Pexels.com

When you think of a castle most of us think of European countries because you don’t come across them very often in the United States, being as it’s a young country compared to most. Once the masses began immigrating to the US, they didn’t take to building castles.

So this makes castles in the United States so much more unique, rare and exciting! So I went to digging to find any castles on Airbnb that you or I could stay in! Some are expensive while others just rent out rooms and are very affordable! Today I’m sharing 3 awesome examples with you from all over the United States. If you’re curious to find one maybe closer to you, hop on over to Airbnb, they have Castles as one of their main search criteria!

Castle in Ironton, Missouri – Historic Goulding Castle circa 1846

The listing for this amazing castle can be found here:

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/52281265?check_in=2024-10-20&check_out=2024-10-25&guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=0f6fc244-e2c8-4d0d-93c0-395d3b4ba29b

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

This castle was built by TR Goulding in the 1800’s and this majestic property sits on 9 acres of Shepherd Mountain and connects to over 600 acres of hiking and biking trails on Shepherd Mountain. You can enjoy beautiful views and a forest sitting while still being minutes from restaurants and town. The property boasts priceless statuary, a rebuilt grotto, beautiful interior and the most peaceful grounds to enjoy.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

This castle offers 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, perfect for the average family or group traveling.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

I love that in places of this castle they left the original doorways when they evenly updated the plaster, so you can see the bricks and stones door casings!

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

This castle maintains the exterior integrity of the original structure while also leaving unique details throughout. The majority of the home has ample modern updates including a fully functional kitchen and upgraded copper soaking tub!

Smithmore Castle in Spruce Pine, North Carolina

The listing for this amazing castle can be found here:

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/25519456?adults=1&category_tag=Tag%3A8047&children=0&enable_m3_private_room=true&infants=0&pets=0&photo_id=1936146935&search_mode=flex_destinations_search&check_in=2024-09-06&check_out=2024-09-11&source_impression_id=p3_1725653387_P3h4i5xqV5JbO9Vj&previous_page_section_name=1001&federated_search_id=0854281b-9a12-4a4f-8a45-dd5db401be5a

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

If you’re looking to live out your storybook fantasies, look no further than a castle. Spacious rooms, or suites, fit for a king or queen make for a once-in-a-lifetime fairy tale experience. The rooms aren’t just an excuse for owners to stick it to traveling peasants, oops, peasants! Luxurious showers of marble, crown molding, and fabrics make you feel like you’re at home, grand, resplendent, and extraordinary.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

Smithmore Castle, America’s only 5-star Castle hotel which offers an unparalleled blend of historic elegance & luxury. Nestled in Western North Carolina, it boasts breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Eastern Continental Divide. The castle features Suites, Lofts & Rooms. Perfect for events or retreats, Smithmore Castle ensures an unforgettable experience steeped in timeless beauty and sophistication. The Castle is authentic and provides a proper British Victorian experience.

This huge, gorgeous castle offers 8 bedrooms with 14 beds and 8 AND A HALF bathrooms! Wow! Plenty of space to have a huge gathering, holiday party and even weddings!


I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

In 2008, Robert Smith purchased estate with his family and renamed it with his last name and consideration for the property’s “idyllic” surroundings and view of rollings mountains. Eventually, in 2017, Smith opening it for events and listed it various rental sites. By 2019 as guests remarked that they “loved” the property and liked the accommodating staff at the Castle. In 2020 Smith recreated Smithmore Castle to a fully operational hotel with a private restaurant offering high end cuisines. The location offers a private steep drive up English Knob. The 121-acre private mountain estate is found in the ranges of the Blue Ridge Mountains and was called a “perfect place” to establish an atmosphere for thematic weddings and photo shoots. The Castle first attracted a national spotlight after being featured in magazines, television and music videos.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

Smithmore Castle features over 15,000 Sq Ft with many rooms but offers only eight bedrooms for guests to rent. The Castle has caves on the property and offers Cave Tours, a Fire Pit and mountain biking. Cooking classes, Archery Lessons, Cave Tours, Etiquette Classes, Massages, Wine Tastings and more.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

If you’re looking for a truly majestic place to have a wedding in a castle, put this place on your list!

Castle in Putnam Valley, New York a lake

The listing for this amazing castle can be found here:

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/774642029245839568?adults=1&category_tag=Tag%3A8047&children=0&enable_m3_private_room=true&infants=0&pets=0&photo_id=1539642524&search_mode=flex_destinations_search&check_in=2024-09-15&check_out=2024-09-20&source_impression_id=p3_1725653406_P3mjcaghhpaUstdL&previous_page_section_name=1001&federated_search_id=0854281b-9a12-4a4f-8a45-dd5db401be5a

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

Far from requiring knights or ladies-in-waiting to fetch your slippers, guests at Castle resorts will enjoy an array of services. Here, you’re required to bring your own pet, cook and light your own fire, make your own bed, and you can even do your own cleaning. Bring your “court members” in for a photo opportunity at one of the majestic castles! All of the castles will provide a magical backdrop for your personal or group photographs. Have your picture taken in everyday clothing to share with friends and family. A picture in the castle gardens with your pet or dressed for your wedding in our Tudor village is sure to be treasured.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

This small but lovely castle offers 4 bedrooms and one a half bathrooms, a very doable and fully functional size!

This custom home probably isn’t what comes to mind when you think of a castle. In fact, the whole property measures 1,664 square feet! Still, there are those castle-like flourishes like gargoyles and crenelated walls.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

Experience a serene retreat at our “Castle by the Lake” where you can book the entire home. Nestled by a tranquil lake, this home offers ample space and luxurious amenities to ensure a memorable stay for your group. Enjoy the expansive outdoor areas, multiple living spaces, and a fully equipped kitchen perfect for large gatherings.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

I really love the mixture of wood in abundance but it isn’t too overwhelming. The white walls really balance out the entire property and the decor has pops of color, flowers painted on walls and so many windows allowing in just the right amount of light!

I do not own these images, they are from Airbnb.

I hope you’ll check out one of these awesome castles or another great one in the US! Or better yet, if you’ve got a dream castle to explore in Europe, comment below and let us know which ones you’re dreaming about that we should check out!

Thank you for taking the time to check out this article! If you loved it I hope you will subscribe to my blog as I love to share gardening content, recipes and other helpful articles!

If you’d like to read my personal story, you can find it here!

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Xoxo,
Elizabeth Richey
About the Author: Elizabeth Richey, living and thriving in rural Arkansas, Aquarian and iced coffee enthusiast. When she’s not writing, gardening, playing with her chocolate lab Maple or sharing videos on YouTube (Elizabeth’s Many Adventures) you can find her enjoying time with her family or traveling somewhere new! Most of the time she’s dreaming of being kicked back in her hammock in her cottage garden listening to the birds sing. 

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Categories: Travel

Best Vacation Rentals for a Couples Weekend in New Orleans

If you’re looking to have a nice couples weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana then you must read on for some of the best vacation rentals online! As someone who has visited NOLA before and is always eager to return, I’ve researched which rental listings are in prime locations and have what you really need to have the best time! For the purpose of this article we’re planning a kid-free, couples-only weekend get away and so each location is specifically functional for couples only (aka, no room to sleep the kids).

cars parked on the roadside near city buildings
Photo by KEN COOPER on Pexels.com

*All photos below are from Airbnb.com and are not mine

French Quarter Balcony overlooking Bourbon street

Location is Top Priority when visiting NOLA because you want to be in or as close to downtown as possible because there is so much walkability to the town!

You can find this listing here! This adorable place is an upstairs unit in the French Quarter which means it’s close to everything! The decor is adorable, mixing traditional with modern and colorful! The wood floors look original and beams on the ceiling are a nice touch!

This unit is one bed, one bath with a full kitchen! So if you don’t want to eat out every meal or want to be able to put together some meals, you have just enough space to do so here! The door in the kitchen opens up to the balcony that looks down into a private courtyard area!

The room is just stunning with two queen beds (so technically it sleeps 4) and with doors that walk out to the balcony! The old fireplace isn’t functional but the mantle and surround are gorgeous details in this room! I especially love the ceiling moldings!

If you’ve never been to NOLA, these court yards are very specific to the style of architecture common here. A lot of homes in the downtown area have their own private courtyard or multiple units surround a shared courtyard. It’s a great gathering space where you’re bound to make new friends on vacation! And that bathroom was gorgeously renovated, just stunning!

Modern House 6 Blocks to Audubon Park & Zoo

A few good reasons to be close to downtown other than bars and restaurants is that there are a lot of museums, walking tours and fun things to do! You can literally walk your entire weekend there and never run out of things to do, especially with a rental listing like this one!

You can find this listing here! This adorable shot gun style house is less than 800 square feet and not very wide but full of adorable details! It was decorated by a local Interior Designer and I feel like you can tell, everything just flows together nicely! This one bed one bath house has great walkability and plenty of room to sprawl out during your vacation!

I think the olive green on the kitchen cabinets was a unique choice but ended up being very fitting and it goes really well! I think it pairs really nicely with the orange/brown leather couch in the living room!

This small house has a half bath as well as a full bath!

The bedroom is at the back of the house with double doors out to a covered patio area!

The cobblestone patio is private and shaded!

Magazine Street Park-View Suite w/ Private Porch!

Next and last on our list is this adorable little suite within walking distance to everything! Located right on Magazine Street with nice parking to the side and a cozy porch for hanging out!

You can find this listing here! I love the blue colors they chose for the accent of those home, as it goes really well with the white trim and wood accents throughout.

Unlike the other rentals on this list, this one is more like a hotel as it’s all in one room primarily! There is no full kitchen but it does offer a mini fridge, microwave, coffee pot and some dishes. If you’re looking to spend most of your time out exploring and enjoying all the fine foods all around you, this will be a PERFECT weekend get away spot!

The bathroom is nicely upgraded with honeycomb tile and a good sized shower!

This place really feels like an upgraded hotel room but the front porch and proximity to everything offers you that homey feeling! This would be my top pick for my next weekend trip down!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this article and if so why not give me a follow or subscribe, as I’m always sharing more about great places to eat, Airbnb recommendations, traveling, health tips, recipes and more! Thanks for the read!

If you’d like to read my personal story, you can find it here!

xoxo,

Elizabeth Richey

About the Author: Elizabeth Richey, living and thriving in rural Arkansas, Aquarian and iced coffee enthusiast. When she’s not writing, gardening, playing with her chocolate lab Maple or sharing videos on YouTube (Elizabeth’s Many Adventures) you can find her enjoying time with her family or traveling somewhere new! Most of the time she’s dreaming of being kicked back in her hammock in her cottage garden listening to the birds sing. 

Categories: Food

The 5 Best Places to eat in Little Rock, Arkansas

Whether you’re looking to try something new local to you or you’re just passing through on a road trip and you want a good foodie experience, then you’ve got to check out the 5 best places to eat in Little Rock, Arkansas!

photo of woman eating food
Photo by Lucas Bordignon on Pexels.com

As a local and native to Arkansas but someone who lives a couple of hours from Little Rock, I sometimes travel down there JUST for a good foodie experience. We love food and having new experiences, trying new cuisines, checking out new spots, etc. 

So I’ve compiled a list of the top 5 rated restaurants in Little Rock based on Google and I hope you’ll check them out! If you’ve ever eaten at any of these, comment below and let us all know which is your favorite and why!

I’m sharing these is no specific order so make sure you pin this article to save it for later and you get by all 5, especially if you’re local!

Layla’s Gyro

9501 N Rodney Parham Rd #7, Little Rock, AR 72227

Open Sundays 11 AM–4:30 PM and 11 AM–8:15 PM the rest of the week.

Check out their website here!

Images from Google Reviews

If you’re looking for an authentic Greek experience that offers not only superb food but also a welcome feeling from the staff like you’re family, then you’ve got to try Layla’s! Locals call it a hole in the wall place as the exterior and the interior decor are not fancy but the food is what will have you bragging and coming back for more!

Images from Google Reviews

With a 4.7 out of 5 star rating on Google and over 1,400 reviews…they can’t be wrong!

Image from Google Reviews

El Sur Street Food Co

1214 Main St, Little Rock, AR 72202

Sundays 11 AM–3 PM, closed Tuesdays and 11 AM–9 PM the rest of the week. 

Check out their website here!

Where Central Arkansas meets Honduras and Latin America! 

El Sur Street Food Co Website

Image from ElSurStreetfoodCo.com

Man, if you’re looking for Latin American flavors AND a great vibe, stop by this place!

Image from Google Reviews

This business was formed by a few guys who wanted to offer Honduran and Latin American food to Arkansas and share their love of this food with the locals! They’ve done a great job setting up a winning vibe in their shop down on Main Street! It’s easy to see why this shop makes the 5 best places to eat in Little Rock, Arkansas!

Images from Google Reviews

With a 4.8 out of 5 star review, it’s easy to see why this place tops the list. You can tell they’re using fresh, local and seasonal ingredients in their recipes. They are garnishing with fresh herbs and including flowers in their mixed drinks! The Sangria is highly recommended and they even have a back room with ping pong tables and other games!

Images from Google Reviews

You can order online and they have vegan options! Parking in this area downtown is easy so that makes it convenient too! Their menu online has pictures of MOST of the food items and I really love that when I’m researching new places to try, especially if I’m not local to the area or have never been there! Stop by and give these guys a try!

The Pantry Eateries

They’re so loved they have two locations in Little Rock, named “West” and “Crest” so check their website for addresses and hours for each. They also offer slightly different menus.

You can check out their website here!

Photos from Google Reviews and littlerockpantry.com

The Pantry Eateries offer Czech and German classics as well as delightful appetizers, burgers, salads, and flatbreads.

littlerockpantry.com

The Crest location in Little Rock is in an old home so the atmosphere is very pleasant and homey! You can have a meal on the front porch or the side deck offers ample room for outdoor dining for up to 20-ish.

 

Photos from Google Reviews

With a google review rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, it’s easy to see why this delicious European cuisine has locals raving! From the hefty meat platter served on a cutting board to the whimsical deviled eggs, you get a unique experience and menu here. 

Photos from Google Reviews

One patron described the food as “elevated comfort food” while also mentioning to be prepared to not find parking super close due to how the area is setup. There is dining upstairs also and navigating the residential/old staircase with a lot of people can be troublesome. In general though they felt the food and service made up for those minor inconveniences. 

Photos from littlerockpantry.com

The service is phenomenal and the drink selection is outstanding.

One Hungry Possum, Google Local Guide.

No wonder this one made the list for 5 best places to eat in Little Rock, Arkansas, I’d go just for the deviled eggs honestly!

Ciao Baci

605 Beechwood St #3846, Little Rock, AR 72205

Closed Sundays, open 4–10:30 PM every other day of the week.

Check their website for full menu and other info here!

Images from Google Reviews

Nestled in the beautiful Hillcrest neighborhood in Little Rock, Arkansas, Ciao Baci has been proudly elevating dining, drinking, and relaxing since its inception in 2001.

 ciaobacilr.com

Images from Google Reviews

I must admit I’m a sucker for a restaurant in an old home! Throw some good food and candle light in an old bungalow and buddy I’m there! Sign me up for that! It just creates a whole vibe that puts you in the MOOD to try something new and different, slow down and enjoy the experience. It elevates “going out to eat” and turns it into having a slow, present moment with whoever you’re with to focus on food and socializing, something we really don’t do enough in our culture while Europeans nail it!

Images from Google Reviews

From flat breads, empanadas or Lamb Gyro, gorgonzola cheese to lavender lemonade this place offers a wide range of interesting foods you won’t find just anywhere in Little Rock! Their rave reviews state everything tastes so fresh and the general atmosphere and servers are very welcoming and cozy!

Images from Google Reviews

They offer a nightly “Chef’s Tasting Menu” which is a 5 course meal and the spontaneity of that sounds really fun and interesting! If you’ve had that please comment below, I’m dying to know how it was! #foodenvy

The Faded Rose

1619 Rebsamen Park Rd, Little Rock, AR 72202

Open 11 AM–9 PM daily but stays open to 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Cajun & Creole-influenced seafood, steaks & more dished up in a roadhouse-style venue with a patio.

The Faded Rose

You can check out their website here!

Images from Google Reviews and http://thefadedrose.com/

Opened in 1982 by a New Orleans local couple and still ran by them today, over 30 years later, in the same location! So from seafood boils to po boys, they’ve got your Creole cravings covered!

Images from Google Reviews and http://thefadedrose.com/

Everyone raves that the creole dishes are authentic creole and I’m sure that tickles the owners heart being as it has always been his mission to bring some good Creole to Arkansas!

Images from Google Reviews and http://thefadedrose.com/

For me I can’t wait to try the shrimp and grits, apparently it is as good as it looks and for that alone I’d make a trip down there! The Faded Rose here I come! I’m glad The Faded Rose made it on the top 5 places to eat in Little Rock, Arkansas LIST so now we all know about them!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this article and if so why not give me a follow or subscribe, as I’m always sharing more about great places to eat, Airbnb recommendations, traveling, health tips, recipes and more! Thanks for the read!

If you’d like to read my personal story, you can find it here!

xoxo,

Elizabeth Richey

About the Author: Elizabeth Richey, living and thriving in rural Arkansas, Aquarian and iced coffee enthusiast. When she’s not writing, gardening, playing with her chocolate lab Maple or sharing videos on YouTube (Elizabeth’s Many Adventures) you can find her enjoying time with her family or traveling somewhere new! Most of the time she’s dreaming of being kicked back in her hammock in her cottage garden listening to the birds sing. 

Photo of Author =)

Hi there! I'm a 38 year old mom who is constantly striving to find the balance between physical fitness, health, enjoying good food, quality time with my family and remembering to also take care of my self and inner happiness! I'm here to share tips from the good days when I'm able to strike that elusive balance!

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Castles are old, large structures that were used hundreds of years ago in Europe. They were built to be both homes for the nobles that lived there and a fortress to provide protection from enemy invasions. The first ones were built around the tenth century and over the centuries, they grew larger and more sophisticated. […]

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