Tweet us your favorite summer hair products @BritandCo!
Tweet us your favorite summer hair products @BritandCo!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
I'm officially ready to emerge from my winter haze and re-acclimate to warmer temps and being outside! First things first though, my hair has been pretty neglected over these dry and dehydrating winter months. In order to get my hair back to it's glossy and healthy normal for summer, I've been using leave-in conditioners to help re-store its shine.
Leave-in conditioners help so much to revitalize your hair and bring back some gloss to it, as well as helping get rid of its dried out state that can occur in winter. I asked some of my favorite hair experts what they think about leave ins: Are they a myth? Or do they really help? So keep reading to see what they say!
What are the benefits of leave-in conditioner?
Photo via Pexels/ Nataliya Vaitkevich
One of the best things leave-in conditioner does for you is moisturize dry or damaged hair. It helps to really lock in the moisture so that it can look healthier as well as preventing your hair from any future damage that it may be exposed to. Hair stylist and expert Marwa Bashir says this about leave-ins, "A leave-in conditioner is one of the most beneficial products for your hair. A leave-in conditioner will protect , moisturize and nourish all hair types. In my arsenal of products the first step for my wavy hair is always a leave-in conditioner, my favorite is SUNCATCHER from R+Co. This product is great to use on damp hair, as well as dry when the hair may feel a bit dehydrated."
Is leave-in conditioner good for your hair?
Photo via Pexels/Yan Krukau
Leave-in conditioner is great for your hair because it has time to really soak into the hair and soothe any dry or brittle ends you may have. It also strengthens any dry ends to allow them to get stronger and prevent them from breaking as easily in the future. It can also prevent your hair from damage via sun, rough sleeping, or heat. Our resident hair expert, Marwa Bashir says, "A leave-in conditioner layered over dry waves or curls can also help revive the shape of the coils or ropey waves." We love to hear that!
Briogeo Don't Despair Hair Treatment
I've been using this hair treatment for about two years now and it has to be one of the BEST things I've done with my hair care routine in a long time. I use a lot of heat from curling irons and blow dryers so my hair has a lot of dryness. I was looking for something that would help with my breakage and dead ends so I could grow out my hair more and this seriously worked like magic. It made my hair feel so hydrated just after two uses and now that I've been using it for so long, I don't think I can go back; it's just that good! Could not recommend this one more! Definitely add to cart.
Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream
With over 800 reviews at Nordstrom, most of which are 4 stars and above, this is one of the most highly-rated leave-in conditioners I've seen. It is certainly well loved with reviews saying things like, "Do yourself a favor and go ahead and order! This stuff is amazing! It adds tons of shine and closure to ends. Cuts out all frizz nicely. My hair feels great...not to mention, the smell is AMAZING! I have extremely thick hair and I literally use a dime size amount. I know it seems expensive up front, but it will last a long time. I’m hooked!!!" Wow that sounds like a stellar product to me!
Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector
This is one of those products I hate because it's so good!!! I used this once and genuinely noticed a big difference in my hair and hated that because of its more expensive price point. But I promise you, it actually does work and IS worth the hype unfortunately. Try it once and you'll see! The difference in your hair is immediate and game-changing. Another product that lives up to the hype!
Oribe Leave-In Detangler
Another amazing Oribe product that I love. This one can be used to help detangle your hair and smoothen it from any clumps to prevent further breakage. It just helps loosens up the hair and moisturizes it leaving it with a silky, smooth finish. This is a great one to use after the shower to give it an extra shine.
Moroccan Oil All-In-One Leave-In
This is a budget friendly option listed at only $14! It also has amazing reviews and is the complete package as an all-in-one item! It helps to detangle your hair, soften any breakage or split ends, and prevent damage from heat. It's also perfect for any and all hair types!
Aveda Nutriplenish Leave-In
Over 2300 stunning reviews?! Sign us up! This product is well-loved for a reason! Another hair product for all hair types but this one helps to protect from heat of up to 450 degrees! That sounds so ideal for me, as someone who frequently uses heat on her hair! I would say this one is perfect for you if you heat-style your hair often.
Curlsmith Weightless Air Dry Cream
Where are my beautiful curly-haired girlies at?! I have the most amazing leave-in conditioner for you that is only $12 and has incredible reviews. This mask is so helpful because it moisturizes your hair while improving your curl texture. We love a dual purpose! This mask is definitely a must for anyone with curly hair!
Since our hair expert Marwa Bashir said that leave-ins even work well on dry hair, we definitely recommend trying it that way to revitalize some of your curls for some extra bounce!
Aveda Botanical Intensive Strengthening Mask
If you have intense breakage or pretty frail hair like me then look no further! This mask does an amazing job of strengthening those frail, broken ends on your hair and preventing any further damage from occurring. I love it because I notice my hair get stronger and not have as many broken ends. It's also paraben-free which I love. You just leave it in for a few minutes and voila! Your hair is shiny and luxurious!
Now that your hair is on its way to looking luxurious, try out one of our Easy Hairstyles For Work!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
One detail that the covers of the new books coming in May have in common are shades of pink, blue, and green — perfect summer colors. You'll find your classic rom-com books, but there's also a little devious behavior and a touch of magic to look forward to. But, don't just take my word for it. Let your imagination get lost in our top 11 new books coming in May!
Mistakes We Never Made by Hannah Brown (May 7)
Emma Townsend and Finn Hughes are involved in a classic cat and mouse situationship that's turned incredibly sour. They went from inching their way towards several romantic turning points to deciding they actually don't like each other anymore. One can assume their hearts got tired of being shown that almost doesn't count.
However, they have to put on their adult undies to get through a wedding weekend where everyone's expected to be on their best behavior because of the joyous moment at hand. It sounds too good to be true and the pair quickly realizes it is when the bride-to-be vanishes.
Forced to race against an invisible winding clock, Emma and Finn embark on a momentous journey to figure out if this wedding can actually be saved. Somewhere along the lines, they begin to remember what it was like when their undeniable attraction towards each other led to much more. Maybe a weird wedding mystery is just the thing they needed to prove that it's time to make things official.
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley (May 7)
The Ministry of Time is a the modern time travel book you didn't know you needed to read until now. It shines a light on a young woman — aka the "bridge" — who's new job comes with a hefty salary and more responsibility than she considered. She's meant to help an expat called "1847," or Commander Graham Gore, adjust to living in a modern world when all he remembers is what it was like to live in the 1840s.
The more 1847 adjusts to life around him with other expats and this young woman whose so different than what he's used to, the more the bridge crosses the lines and allows herself to become immersed in his world beyond what her profession calls for.
This isn't without consequences and it's up to the bridge to decide what it really means to live in the future.
The Five Year Lie by Sarina Bowen (May 7)
Ariel Cafferty was head over heels in love with a man she thought she knew until it feels like he ghosted her without an explanation. She thought she was beginning to move on, but a vague text from him (Drew) years later brings back emotions she's tried to forget.
Suddenly Ariel begins to piece together clues that something is seriously wrong. Not only that, she can't shake the feeling that the truth is still being kept from her. In order to possibly save her and her son's life, she'll have to work to understand what happened to Drew and how far the mystery surrounding his disappearance actually goes.
Alternate Endings by Ali Rosen (May 7)
Alternate Endings is one of the new books releasing in May that I immediately connected to because I can relate to some aspects of Beatrice Leal's life. She's a working mother who's as dedicated to her son as she is to her job, but the only difference between us is that she's dealing with a tough divorce. To make it even more complicated, her boss also gets divorced and decides she wants to live in Ireland full-time.
This means she's requiring the team — including Bea — to be there twice a month and this throws a huge monkey wrench in the custody plans she and her ex-husband Lucas have half-heartedly agreed on. Still, Bea loves her job and reluctantly makes the first trip to Ireland where she meets the new CTO at her job — the sexy Jack Sander who ghosted her while they were in high school.
Despite the two decades that have passed since they've seen each other, there's no denying that the two still have electric energy that they acknowledge during one of their trips to Ireland. But as time passes, the lie they keep telling themselves gives way to something more and Bea finds that she may just have to change her approach to everything in life — especially when it comes to love.
The Paradise Problem by Christine Lauren (May 14)
Is it obvious that my favorite new books I've read involve some form of love? Besides this amazing cover that caught my eye, The Paradise Problem offers a completely new approach to being married that I've seen in a book.
Anna Green is impulsive and makes decisions solely so she survive from day to day. It's the main reason she married Liam "West" Weston when she needed a place to stay. It was supposed to be a marriage of convenience between two strangers. So when she doesn't bother looking at the "divorce" papers he had her sign and is surprised to find out they're still married when he visits her years later, Anna's more than flustered.
See, West is set to inherit a large fortune attached to his family's name and has to prove that he's been enjoying married life with his wife Anna. The problem is that they don't really know anything about each other and his family is demanding to see her.
With no other choice, West convinces Anna to keep up the married act and prays she'll be able to impress his family. However, he begins to realize that maybe he's had it wrong all along. Maybe he's supposed to fall in love with this feisty, art-loving, impulsive woman that's stealing his heart. Maybe he's supposed to protect hers.
Lovers and Liars by Amanda Eyre Ward (May 14)
The Peacock sisters aren't as close as they used to be and they have time and a lot of heartache to blame for that. Of course, there's always the roles they played in the fallout of their familial relationship.
Sylvie Peacock finds herself facing marriage again after being widowed and she thinks it might be time to move on. Cleo Peacock is the successful sister who can do no wrong and has the cushy lifestyle to prove it. So when her sister Sylvie falls for the charming Simon Rampling, her criminal defense intuition starts ringing. And Emma Peacock? Well, she's hiding secrets that's turned her into a woman who lets silence lead her. At the center of the sisters is their less than stellar mother who's domineering presence makes it clear these sisters have cowered in her presence for far too long.
One weekend will change everything for the Peacock family and nothing will be the same. — good or bad.
The Honey Witch by Sydney J. Shields (May 14)
Marigold Claude is ever popular with the many men who want to court her, but she couldn't care less. Her freedom lies in the nature and she gladly revels in it. Things seem to get even better when her grandmother feels she's worthy to become a Honey Witch. But, she can never fall in love.
Deciding she's okay with this rule, she carries on merrily until she meets Lottie Burke, someone who doesn't think magic exists. Intending to prove Lottie wrong, Marigold starts doing things out that feel out of character for her. Soon, something must darker presents itself and Marigold finds that she may have to break multiple rules just to save what she cares about.
One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware (May 21)
Lyla is experiencing one bad situation after the another. From research that's gone awry to a relationship that's gotten off track, she feels like she's almost at the end of her rope. Suddenly it seems like her prayers are answered when she and Nico are given a chance to be on the TV show One Perfect Couple to win a grand prize that could help them out financially.
They're pit against four other couples and being to sense that something is horribly wrong when disaster strikes the minute they set foot on the deserted island where they're meant to compete. One Perfect Couple becomes more than a reality show and involves whether people can actually survive or not.
Goddess of the River by Vaishnavi Patel (May 21)
Ganga went from being a carefree goddess of the river to a mortal after she failed to control the godlings near her. With no other choice, she decides to become a queen after marrying King Shantanu so she can prove that she's worth of being a goddess again. While she is granted freedom, she can't bring the son she bore in her human form with her.
Once Prince Devavrata gets older and decides he doesn't want to take his father's place, he finds himself on a journey that puts him lock and step with his mother Ganga.
Swiped by L.M. Chilton (May 21)
What would you do if all of your dates from Tinder, Hinge, or Bumble ended up dead after you'd last seen them? Swiped helps Gwen Turner answer that very question when she's thrown into the wildest predicament of her life.
First thing's first — she's in a terrible rut and can't figure out how to put the pieces of her life back together again. She feels hopeless in the romantic department and has to contend with the fact that maybe leaving a great job to serve coffee might not have been the smartest decision.
So, she decides to download a dating app and goes on a series of dates that leave her more confused than ever. To make matters worse, they begin to turn up dead after she's been the last person to go on a date with them. This doesn't bode well with the police and she soon finds herself being carefully watched.
The more frequently things begin to happen, the more Gwen rushes to figure out who the date killer is. As she gets closer to finding out the truth, she'll find that she also has to contend with a dark secret that she thought no one else knew about.
I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue (May 21)
Not to be confused with Dolly Parton's "Jolene," I Hope This Finds You Well's main character of the same name finds herself in a work bind when HR sentences her to "sensitivity training." Her crime? Being exposed for sharing her negative opinions about co-workers. Restricted from certain interactions, Jolene decides to do whatever it takes to get through her training period.
So when an IT plunder allows her to see what everyone else has been privately talking about, Jolene feels conflicted about whether to report them or not. She even discovers that potential layoffs are about to affect her job so she does everything she can to make sure her role is secured.
Soon she'll have to decide what's more important: her job or the truth.
Which of the best new books coming in May are you looking forward to reading? Be sure to check out our storefront for even more reading recs!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
Lead images via Amazon
Shopping for your fave beauty products doesn't have to hurt your wallet, but it can be hard to weed out the best beauty deals that allow you to get more bang for your buck. That's exactly why we're here, bestie! We've scouredAmazon and got some juicy details from our exclusive sources to bring you this week's list of the absolute best beauty deals.
From skincare goods to makeup and hair care to bath time, we've got the scoop. Scroll to shop our go-to's! Here's a peek at some amazing beauty deals on Amazon this week.
Hair Care
Wavytalk Hair Dryer with Diffuser
Just when you thought the sleek, minimalistic design of this hair dryer was the best part about it, you'll be impressed to learn that it has an exceptionally powerful airflow that cuts your total drying time in half!
Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set
If you prefer to forego heated hairstyles, but still wanna flaunt some cute curls, try out these affordable silk heatless curlers. You can leave them in overnight or just for a few hours to reveal smooth, damage-free curls!
Revlon One Step Volumizer PLUS 2.0 Hair Dryer and Hot Air Brush
Revlon named this drying brush 'One Step' for a reason! With this single hair tool, you can dry and style all at once. It pushes through a constant stream of hot air to get the job done.
Kitsch Castor Oil Shampoo Bar for Hair Growth
This earth-friendly shampoo bar is great for at-home showers and traveling. Its solid formula eliminates any need for plastic bottles and will be a lot more mess-free inside your carry-on.
Jovs IPL Painless Hair Removal Tool
This tool delivers medical-grade hair removal right at home. It does boast a stronger energy level than most other hair removal tools on the market, but skin irritation isn't a concern since it's equipped with a stronger cooling system to help you avoid any burns or uncomfiness.
Hot Tools Pro Artist Black Gold Evolve Ionic Salon Hair Flat Iron
Available on Amazon for an entire 51% off, this pro-grade flat iron is a total step-up from your current hair tool. It's fitted with ceramic-titanium plates on the interior, and rounded barrels on the exterior that can be used to create seamless curls!
The Knot Dr. for Conair Wet and Dry Hair Brush
I hope it's not just me who thinks this, but paying anything upwards of $20 for a hairbrush feels criminal. And the fact that hairbrushes require frequent replacement just makes it worse. That's why I'm all about this deal. Save on this wet-to-dry hairbrush now!
Revlon One Step Root Booster Round Brush Dryer and Hair Styler
With a smaller barrel size than the first Revlon One Step tool I listed, this heated hair styler might be better suited for shorter haircuts and people with bangs. If your 'do requires a tighter curl or wave, this pick is for you!
Skincare
COSRX Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence
You've likely been bombarded with this skincare pick by now, but it's completely worth the viral hype! This snail mucin serum reduces dullness and soothes dry skin, which is much needed after a long winter.
grace & stella Illuminating Eye Masks
These cooling eye masks help de-puff the under-eye area with ease. They're easy and effective for combatting dark circles with regular use, and you get 6 pairs for around $15!
Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand
This viral skincare wand feels like pure luxury! With red light technology, warming properties, and a facial massage setting, the Solawave reportedly helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, blemishes, puffiness, and dark circles in just a few minutes a day.
Moon Juice Acid Potion AHA and BHA Liquid Exfoliator
This is my favorite exfoliator I've ever tried, and I use it multiple times weekly because it's just such a treat. Not too harsh, but not too light, either. Formulated with AHA and BHA exfoliants, this liquid acts like a chemical exfoliator / toner for buffing away dry, dead skin. You'll only use a dime-sized amount each time to reveal cleaner skin, meaning this big ol' bottle is gonna last you for a loooong time.
TruSkin Vitamin C Face Serum
This vitamin C serum is also equipped with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E that increase its efficacy towards dark spots, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. It's formulated to be extra-gentle on the skin, so it's light enough for every day use. This is gonna be a huge game-changer in your skincare routine, bestie!
Neutrogena Sunscreen Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 70
Sunscreen is a must as the sun starts to peek out more and more. This lightweight one from Neutrogena is perfect for lathering up the face and body, so it's a good tube to throw in your purse for spring and summer excursions – just in case you need to reapply your SPF. It's formulated to be sheer, too, so no white cast here, babes!
Bliss Disappearing Act Niacinamide Serum
This pore-minimizing and skin barrier-strengthening serum from Bliss is so good. Since it's meant to blur your pores, it makes for a great primer before you put on base makeup. The brand has a few other formulas that tackle different skin concerns like dryness, dullness, and renewal.
Covergirl Facial Mist with Rose Water and Vitamin C
A floral facial spray will never not feel like a treat for your skin, and this rosewater one from Covergirl also mists with a dash of vitamin C to hydrate and improve your skin's texture.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
This pick from Bioderma is a #1 best-seller on Amazon. With over 40,000 5-star ratings, users love it because it's super effective at both removing makeup and cleansing the skin in one easy step!
innisfree Cherry Blossom Dewy Glow Face Moisturizer
As opposed to a traditional face cream, this jelly cream from innisfree feels sheer and light on the face, all while soaking into the skin to provide exceptional hydration. The adorable packaging and sweet scent of cherry blossom makes this skincare deal all the better!
Mario Badescu Moisturizing Lip Balm Set
This set gets you a trio of extremely nourishing lip balms formulated with a thicker consistency for longer wear and deeper hydration. If you can't go a day without lip balm, this beauty deal is the perfect chance to stock up!
Neutrogena Beach Defense Water-Resistant Face & Body SPF 70 Sunscreen
You just can't skip the SPF for any upcoming beach or pool days! This SPF 70 one is designed to be water-resistant, so you can do all the swimming and splashing you please before reapplying every hour or so.
Hustle Butter Tattoo Aftercare Travel-Size Tattoo Balm
Since spring and summer call for you to show more skin, this tattoo care balm might just become your secret weapon in making your body art pop. You can use it past tats, too, as it's superiorly hydrating and nourishing on the skin.
Nails
Orange Tip Press-On Almond Nails
Gotta love an at-home mani that only takes a few steps! With these electric orange press-ons, your nails will transform in just a few minutes.
NYK1 Super Strong Nail Glue For Nail Tips, Acrylic Nails and Press On Nails
If you are a big press-on nail girly, having a strong nail glue is important for applying and reapplying. This one from NYK1 brushes on, so it's very easy and mess-free to use, and the wear will last you days upon days.
OPI Nail Lacquer in Blinded by the Ring Light
Spring nail colors are in full swing, so make sure you snag some pastel-y nail polish on sale like this pick from OPI!
Sunuv UV Light for Nails
If you've completely moved past the nail salon into fully-fledged at-home manis, this UV LED light is a must for curing and setting your hard work! There aren't any buttons on this tool, but it instead has a motion sensor that prompts the light to turn on. Furthermore, it emits non-ultraviolet light that is safe for your skin and eyes!
Gaoy Icy Jelly 6-Piece Gel Nail Polish Set
Neutral nails just got a makeover with this beauty deal! With the jelly-like formula, you're able to layer this gel nail polish to create a customized color look.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Moonlit Top Coat
For a bit more sparkle, this multicolored glitter top coat brings some fun to your basic solid polish.
Makeup
Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara
This Covergirl mascara is insane! Plus, the fact that it's made without parabens, sulfates, talc, or mineral oil is amazing. The fully-vegan formulation also boasts a mix of argan and marula oils for nourishment to your lashes.
Wonderskin Wonder Blading Peel Off Lip Stain
This viral lip stain is on a beauty deal, which means you have to see what the hype is about! This peel-off lip stain goes on dark, but then reveals a perfectly even, saturated lip color underneath. It's truly the best-kept secret to long-lasting makeup looks.
Grande Cosmetics Brow Lamination Gel
Laminated brows are still so in right now, and this clear brow gel will help you achieve the look in no time. A little goes a long way with this product, which means it's an investment worth making for months worth of sleek, slicked-back brows.
The Face Shop Fruta Veil Glow Blush
This adorable glowy blush will give you the spring flush of your dreams! It's made with fine, sparkling particles that emit a very illuminated look.
Versed Mood Lighting Luminizing Glow Drops
In the same vein of looking glowy AF, these skin drops from Versed are the perfect one-stop-shop to shining! Just a few drops will give your face, neck, and collarbones a lively effect, perfect for donning this spring and summer as it starts to warm up.
Hydrating Moisturizing Lip Glow Oil
A seemingly dupe of one of the most popular lip oils on the market, this chunky tube is amazing at hydrating and plumping the lips, all while providing a subtle pink sheen. It comes in a few other fun shades / flavors, too, like green apple and aloe!
NYX Ultimate Paradise Shock Eyeshadow Palette
Make those beautiful eyes pop by using this versatile shadow palette from NYX! It has a good array of brights and neutrals that'll serve you past the spring and summer seasons.
Shop even more beauty deals on our Amazon storefront!
Images via Amazon.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
We're thrilled to kick off our new Jetset Journeys series, where we turn the best U.S. cities to explore this year into our own personal playgrounds. This is not just a travel guide but a way to spark your creativity and your wanderlust for weekend and week-long travel. Pack your bags , join us here every week, and get jetsetty this summer.
A getaway is always a good idea, especially when you can do it with your best friends. Traveling with friends is a fantastic way to bond, create memories, and explore new destinations together. Seeking adventure, relaxation, culture, or nightlife? We've got you. These U.S. cities offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable trip no matter what your travel goals. Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday, upcoming nuptials, or an annual gathering of remote friends, look no further than these cities in the U.S.
New York City
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In the words of Taylor Swift, “It's been waitin' for you!” New York City is a destination for the arts, nightlife, shopping and foodies, so there is an abundance of options for you and your crew to do, see and eat. Book a hotel, there is no shortage of them — but the PUBLIC Hotel, The Standard, High Line or Moxy NYC Chelsea are great ones — and hit the ground running.
Photo: Cynthia Ortega Espinosa
Frolic in Central Park, wander the Metropolitan Museum of Art, cycle along the Hudson River Greenway or window shop on Fifth Avenue. Theater fans will want to see what shows are playing on Broadway or queue for Marie’s Crisis, where you can belt out showtunes in the West Village.
Photo: Pastis
While in an empire state of mind, you’ll obviously want to wine and dine. The Nines, The Happiest Hour, The Blond, Oscar Wilde, the Broken Shaker and Nubeluz are among spots that should be on your list for drinks, along with the seasonal bar Grand Banks, which is a summer must. Satisfy your stomach with meals at Emilio's Ballato, Café Chelsea and Pastis, or if you need a quick bite, then a slice of Joe's Pizza or taco from Los Tacos No. 1 are just the ticket.
Photo: Jeffrey Czum
Depending on what time of year you’re planning to visit New York, you can check out different markets like the Bryant Park Winter Village during the holidays, or Smorgasburg during the warmer months. No matter the season, the Big Apple is ripe and waiting for you to take a bite out of it with your BFFs!
Miami-Ft. Lauderdale
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Sunshine and good times await in South Florida. Apart from the obvious beaches and clubs, the cultural melting pot offers an arts and diverse food scene. But for visitors looking to soak up rays and read while listening to the waves, the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach and The Goodtime Hotel are both within walking distance to North Beach and South Beach, respectively.
Photo: EAST Miami
Of course, the nightlife isn't limited to just Miami Beach. Book a room at EAST Miami, home to Sugar rooftop, where you’ll be in the center of bustling Brickell near hot spots like Sexy Fish and Gekkō. Or stay in Coconut Grove at the Mayfair House Hotel & Garden, which is close to a variety of shops, restaurants and bars, including Regatta Grove.
Photo: Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
Regardless of where you decide to rest your head at night, no BFF trip to Miami should be complete without a visit to Wynwood and Design District. Visit the galleries and snap pictures for the ‘gram in Wynwood and don’t forget to swing by Fireman Derek's Bake Shop for a sweet treat, before heading to Design District for shopping and later dinner at Mandolin Aegean Bistro — a Greek restaurant that’ll have you feeling like you’re in Mamma Mia!.
Photo: Little Hen
If brunch is on the itinerary, look no further than the Little Hen in Midtown Miami. With its Instagram-worthy decor, drinks and dishes, it’s one of the cutest spots to brunch at. Just note, you’ll want to make a reservation and adhere to the restaurant's “smart chic dress code.”
Photo by Irasema McAllister
While in the area, you can mosey on over to Lagniappe, a jazz club and wine garden that has live music every night.
Phoenix, AZ
Photo: Mike Glezos
If wellness or adventure is your journey, then Phoenix is the destination. Gather your spa-loving, adventurous or golf-playing crew and travel to the urban oasis in the Sonoran Desert.
Seeking an escape to nature? Go hiking at Pinnacle Peak Park, Papago Park, Usery Mountain Regional Park or Camelback Mountain. There’s also horseback riding in the Sonoran Desert. Cave Creek Trail Rides, established in 1999, offers guided trail rides, giving you a “true western experience!”
Photo:Tierra Luna Spa at Arizona Biltmore Resort
After being outdoors, retreat inside and unwind with a spa treatment. There are a number of spa resorts in the area, including the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Arizona Biltmore Resort, Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia and the Royal Palms Resort and Spa, to name a few.
Golf buddies in Phoenix will find multiple courses to practice their swings. The city owns and operates five 18-hole championship courses and three nine-hole courses. Pending when you’re in town, fairway fans can try to score tickets to tournaments like the PGA TOUR Champions' Charles Schwab Cup Championship, or the PGA TOUR’s WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Scottsdale.
Photo: Virtu Honest Craft
All the activity and, hey, even relaxation can make you work up an appetite. Satiate it at James Beard Award-winning Virtu Honest Craft, The Arrogant Butcher, Different Pointe of View and Vincent on Camelback.
Dallas-Ft. Worth
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They say everything is bigger in Texas, so get ready for some Texas-sized fun. Between the shopping and the restaurants, there are plenty of reasons for you and your pals to pack your bags and flock to the Lone Star State. The Fairmont Dallas and the Thompson Dallas hotels are both in the heart of downtown, close to the Dallas Museum of Art for art lovers, and near the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza for the history buffs.
Photo: Elizabeth Chambers’ BIRD Bakery
South of downtown you and your crew can explore the Bishop Arts District, an “eclectic neighborhood” with restaurants and shops. You can also engage in retail therapy at the Galleria Dallas and Highland Park Village, both of which are premier shopping destinations.The latter is also home to Elizabeth Chambers’ BIRD Bakery, a must for anyone with a sweet tooth–be sure to order a “southern red velvet” cupcake!
Photo: Sundown at Granada
Craving something savory? Head on over to Las Palmas Tex-Mex for Mexican cuisine, Pecan Lodge for BBQ or the farm-to-table restaurant Sundown at Granada. End your nights at the cozy cocktail bar Parliament or drop by the Midnight Rambler, a cocktail lounge inside of the Joule Hotel.
In need of a little R&R? You and your pals can splurge on a stay at Bowie House in Fort Worth. The luxury hotel is described as an “imaginative and bold urban retreat, where cowboys and cattle once roamed.” Indulge in self-care at the hotel’s full service spa, said to be inspired by the outdoors, or book one of the available experiences.
So, saddle up and plan your trip to Texas.
San Francisco
Photo: Juan Salamanca:
Turn your California dreaming into a reality! From nature to tech and a slew of attractions, the Bay Area has plenty to offer you and your BFFs, especially those who know and love Full House.
The InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco is a historic hotel in the neighborhood of Nob Hill. Renting a car will make it easier to get around and check out sites like the Golden Gate Bridge, the "Painted Ladies" at Alamo Square (channel the Tanners, anyone?), Chinatown and Twin Peaks. Given the city’s proximity to wine country, you can also road trip to Napa for a day to visit wineries and enjoy a meal at the charming Acacia House.
Photo by Mylo Kaye
Back in SF, you and your friends can pay a visit to the famous Fisherman's Wharf, where you’ll find Ghirardelli Square and PIER 39. Take a ferry to Alcatraz (the tour is actually fascinating) or Sausalito for waterside lunch at Bar Bocce, where you can join other guests in a game of bocce while you wait for your delicious pizzas and salads.
Grab your besties for a coastal hike along Land's End Trail for breathtaking views of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. Start at the old Cliff House and spot the famous Sutro Baths and end at the Palace of Legion of Honor. Or, reserve your spot at Muir Woods for an amazing hike through the redwoods.
Photo: b. patisserie
Grab breakfast or lunch at the James Beard Award-winning b. patisserie, or one of the best rooftop bars in the city Kaiyo for Peruvian bites.
Photo: Kaiyo
The San Francisco Playhouse is a great night out to the theatre with pals, or Cobb's Comedy Club for big laughs. With friends by your side, you’re sure to feel golden in the Golden State.
Main photo: Photo by KoolShooters
Follow along for all your travel needs with our Flights of Fancy series and Jetset Journeys series.
At this point in my life, I have what could be considered an encyclopedic knowledge ofGilmore Girls. I can discuss plot points, TV moments, and The Battle Of Rory's Boyfriends to academic extents — but there is always more to talk about! If you've also got Gilmore Girls on the brain, then keep scrolling for some of your top Gilmore Girls questions, answered.
Why is season 7 of Gilmore Girls so different?
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Gilmore Girls season 7 has a different tone to the rest of the show for one simple reason: creators and writers Dan & Amy Sherman-Palladino weren't involved in the production of the show. They were so heavily involved in previous seasons that it makes sense their absence would be felt!
What happens at the end of Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life?
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After we said goodbye to Rory, Lorelai, and the rest of Stars Hollow, Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life allowed us to see all our favorite characters again — and then shocked us with its final four words. In a full circle moment, the show ends with Lorelai and Rory sitting on the steps of the town gazebo with their coffees before Rory asks, "Mom?" "Yeah," Lorelai says. "I'm pregnant."
Is there going to be a season 2 of Gilmore Girls: A Year in a Life?
Image via Netflix
While there hasn't been an official confirmation for Gilmore Girls: A Year in a Life season 2, fans and cast members alike are hoping we'll return to Stars Hollow again. "If that came up again, I love that character so much and I love Amy," Lauren Graham tells Collider. "I will work with her, any time. It would just be a matter of responsibility to the fans and what we could give them that's deserving of their devotion."
Where can I rewatch Gilmore Girls?
Image via Netflix
You can stream Gilmore Girls on Netflix now. That means you can rewatch the show from the comfort of your own home (or bed), which is perfect!
Who did Lorelai Gilmore end up with?
Image via Robert Voets/Netflix
After years of feeling torn between Rory's father Christopher and her best friend Luke, Lorelai ended Gilmore Girls in a relationship with Luke. But if you ask me, the most important relationship is the one between Lorelai and Rory, which is still going strong by the end of the series!
What happened to Emily Gilmore?
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While Emily Gilmore seems a little intimidating at the beginning of the series, she definitely has a heart of gold. When A Year In The Life opens, we learn her husband Richard has passed away, and Emily balances healing from her grief while also exploring the independence she's never had before.
Where can I buy Gilmore Girls gifts?
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Whether you're hunting for a white cable knit sweater like Rory's iconic pullover or you're headed to the bookstore to try her reading list for yourself, you can find Gilmore Girls gifts everywhere from the Hallmark store to Amazon.
Where is the Gilmore Girls cast now?
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The cast of Gilmore Girls has been busy since the show wrapped! You can see Chad Michael Murray and Scott Patterson on Sullivan's Crossing, while Lauren Graham recently published Have I Told You This Already? Alexis Bledel is in talks to star in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 3, while Milo Ventimiglia just got married! I love seeing this cast thrive.
Why is Gilmore Girls season 5 controversial?
Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix
If there's one Gilmore Girls season that's gone down in infamy, it's Gilmore Girls season 5. There are a few (very controversial) reasons it strikes a cord with fans, including but not limited to, Rory dating a recently divorced Deanafter their affair in season 4, stealing a yacht with Logan, and deciding to drop out of Yale. This sounds like a quarter-life crisis if I've ever seen one.
Who is the father of Rory's baby?
Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix
Gilmore Girlsleft us on a huge cliffhanger when Rory Gilmore revealed she was pregnant, and thanks to costume supervisor Valerie Campbell, we know that the father of Rory's baby is her college boyfriend Logan Huntzberger.
Where is Stars Hollow located in real life?
Featured image via Taryn Elliott/Pexels.
You can visit Stars Hollow IRL by taking a trip to Washington, Connecticut. The town made Amy Sherman-Palladino feel so at home that she used it as inspo for Gilmore Girls!
Does Lane Kim have a baby?
Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix
Yes, Lane ends up having twins by the end of Gilmore Girls. Amy Sherman-Palladino actually revealed this was a plot point she didn't like from Gilmore Girls season 7. "I would’ve preferred that Lane not have kids, only because it would’ve given us more options," she tells TV Line. "The one thing you couldn’t do with Lane and Zack is have them be sh—tty parents. So them having kids sort of dictated them still living in Stars Hollow. It changed things ever so slightly. They’re still rock and rollers. They’re still the cool parents."
Did Paris Geller attend Harvard?
Image via Neil Jacobs/Netflix
No, Paris Geller did not get into Harvard, which is a plot point that still divides fans. After all, Paris was brilliant, why wouldn't she have gotten in?! Paris and Rory both went to Yale, and actually ended up rooming together.
What happened to Rory Gilmore?
Image via Saeed Adyani/Netflix
By the time we see Rory Gilmore in Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life, she's become a freelance journalist who travels around the world for work. After some encouragement from Jess, Rory also ends up writing a book about her life with Lorelai, titled Gilmore Girls.
Who was Rory Gilmore's best boyfriend?
Image via Netflix
This is the age-old question that will divide Gilmore Girls fans for the rest of time!! While everyone has a different answer (Logan! Jess! Dean! Actually..who picks Dean?), Matt Czuchry himself recently revealed that he thinks there's NO right answer. “I think [all three of Rory Gilmore's boyfriends have] strengths and weaknesses, like we all do,” he says on The Talk. “And I think that the fun of the show is that you’ve got these characters who are flawed and had these great pieces and everybody debates who’s best for Rory because they feel different about their strengths and weaknesses that might match up.”
What's your favorite season of Gilmore Girls? I'm a tried and true season 3 fan (because of Jess, of course), but I will always rewatch the pilot before I watch anything else. Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture news!
Lead image via WB/The CW