Bear Creek Winery is tucked away in a secret corner of the Ozarks near Branson, Missouri.
This Winery is a gem only true Missourians know about!
If you’re looking for a luxurious and charming rustic escape for the evening, look no further than Bear Creek Winery.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
My Winery Essentials
Growing up in Springfield, I have a pretty good grasp on the best spots in the area.
Living alongside “The Birthplace of Route 66” makes the 417 a total foodie’s heaven on earth, which makes it tricky to choose where to dine with so many great options.
After hearing so much hype about Bear Creek, I just had to check it out myself.
Planning your trip to Branson? Visiting the Big Cedar grounds is a must! I’m obsessed with Cedar Creek Spa.
Or if you’re looking for family fun activities, I love the Titanic Museum and the Dixie Stampede.
Bear Creek Winery – Things to Know
Bear Creek is a Winery, Restaurant, Lodging, and Small Batch Brewery.
You can pick and choose what suits you out of their extensive offerings, opting to stay a whole weekend or just simply enjoy some pizza at their restaurant.
Be sure to check out their website here to get a detailed look at what they offer.
Bear Creek is located in Walnut Shade, Missouri which is about 20 minutes from Branson or Springfield.
The hours do vary, but here are their current hours listed for the season –
Sunday – Thursday 10-6pm *Sunday live music 2-5pm
Friday & Saturday 10-9pm *Live music 2-9pm
Food & Wine Selections
What I didn’t expect to find at Bear Creek, was some insanely delicious pizza!
I ordered the fresh and delicious “Bear Ass Pizza”. The prices are reasonable and the servings are huge.
Wine samples are offered, and you can enjoy a glass of your favorite for $6. My favorite wine is the Hillbilly Persuasion, which is a nice light crisp wine, close to a Chardonnay.
Dinner with a view
What better way to enjoy pizza and live music than sitting on a terrace? Bear Creek has both indoor and outdoor seating to suit everyone’s dining preferences.
The Ozarks are stunning. If you are looking for a rustic getaway in the woods, Branson area has many spectacular lodging options such as Bear Creek, Big Cedar Lodge, or Chateau on the Lake.
Bear Creek is the perfectly charming and rustic getaway for your date night or friend’s outing.
If you plan a trip to Southwest Missouri, consider spending an evening at Bear Creek Winery.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
Researching your trip to Vietnam and find yourself wondering, ‘Is Halong Bay Worth it?” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of the most famous natural wonders of Vietnam. Halong Bay is said to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places on…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Published on Sep 2, 2023 | Last updated Sep 6, 2023
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
by Natalie | Published on May 30, 2020 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Blog
This post is all about photos of Cuba.
Cuba’s vibrant colors are what I remember most about my 7-day journey through this stunning country.
From vintage cars that defy the test of time to the rhythmic moves of salsa dancers, we’ve captured so much in this Cuba photo diary.
By the end of this post about photos of Cuba, I can assure you, that you’ll be planning your Cuban vacation!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Buildings here are like a crayon box on steroids, with every shade imaginable. From pastel pinks to sun-bleached yellows and bold blues. It’s like someone turned the entire city into a work of art.
Havana is a gigantic melting pot of colors and architectural influences from around the world. The styles of buildings that largely make up this city are Colonial, Spanish Baroque, Neoclassicism, and Art Deco.
Some of the architecture in Havana was oh-so colorful and symmetrical, it reminded me of something that would be seen in a Wes Anderson film.
Everyday Struggles for Cubans
Havana’s colors are bright but perhaps it is a distraction for tourists from the everyday struggles of Cubans.
Cuba has undoubtedly had a long history of fighting battles both outside and inside the country.
Most Cubans really struggle to make ends meet as the average monthly wage for a state worker is $20 – $30 ($USD). Many Cubans work constantly, pulling second jobs in the tourist industry working for tips or for private companies.
Old Havana or Vevado?
Havana is divided into two parts; Old Havana and Vevado.
Old Havana is likely what you envision Havana to be – bright colors, cobblestone streets, and those dreamy classic cars. However, with that being said, it’s definitely where all the tourists are. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing!
Vevado is the business district and more urban neighborhood of Havana. Likely, where more authentic Cubans live and spend more of their time. Click here for a more in-depth breakdown by a Cuban of the Havana neighborhoods if you are stuck choosing between the two!
We stayed near Old Havana and I am pretty happy with our decision. Vevado is rather far and spread out and I don’t think we would have gotten the experience we envisioned Havana to be.
The Famous Restaurant in Havana – La Guarida!
I LOVED getting to experience dining at La Guarida.
La Guarida is one of the most famous restaurants in all of Havana. It is known for a filming location in a classic film, Strawberry and Chocolate.
Making reservations weeks in advance is highly recommended. You can check out my full restaurant review of La Guarida, here.
La Guarida Restaurant Havana
Spend an evening watching the incredible Tropicana show
Tropicana is a classic Cuban MUST! The Tropicana is a world-famous cabaret show dating back to the late 30s.
Some of the tricks performed are jaw-dropping, and it’s an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to dress up! The recommended dress code is “casual elegance,” meaning women shouldn’t wear shorts and men should wear long pants and a collared shirt.
After you’ve spent some time exploring the city, consider booking an Airbnb experience to go beyond Havana.
We booked an Airbnb experience that took us on a day trip to stunning Viñales.
The tour was so lovely; we enjoyed the few hour’s journeys in a classic car, horseback riding in the valley, and learned how to make Cuban cigars.
VINALES
Vinales is a slice of paradise tucked away in the Cuban countryside.
Immerse yourself in the land of horses, lush greenery, and tobacco farms.
Why you should book an Airbnb experience
Your money will go to supporting the Cuban people directly, rather than to a hotel or tourist agency (that are often run by the communist government!)
This rule doesn’t just apply to Cuba, it’s just like shopping locally.
Your money goes directly to the people, rather than larger corporations. Also, it is way more of an authentic experience.
This tour was so much fun, that we were completely exhausted when we returned to Havana. Luckily, our next destination in Cuba was a relaxing oceanfront town called Cojimar.
COJIMAR
Cojimar is a small fishing village on the Cuban coast. Filled with colorful boats bobbing in the harbor and salty sea breezes that instantly put you at ease, Cojimar is the perfect place to relax.
If this hidden gem sounds familiar, it’s because it is where Hemingway once lived and was inspired to write, Old Man and the Sea.
This sleepy ocean-front town is located just a 15-minute drive from Havana’s old town.
It’s a total change of pace from bustling Havana, and we were ready for somewhere a bit more low-key.
We stayed in an incredible Airbnb that was right on the water. It was way cheaper and more modern than any of the BNBs located in the city center of Havana.
Honestly, there is not much to do in Cojimar aside from visiting Hemngway’s house.
Unless you are setting it as your home base for your Havana trip, I would only spend two days here max. We filled our time by taking a taxi to Santa Maria Beach, which I highly recommend!
A few more photos of Havana.
It’s too beautiful of a city not to capture every corner of it.
Thanks for reading! I hope these 41 photos of Cuba will convince you to plan a trip of a lifetime.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
Researching your trip to Vietnam and find yourself wondering, ‘Is Halong Bay Worth it?” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of the most famous natural wonders of Vietnam. Halong Bay is said to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places on…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Published on Sep 2, 2023 | Last updated Sep 6, 2023
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
Nicknamed “The City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford is truly the most magical fairytale-like city in all of England.
There is so much to love about this city, but I’ll keep it short and let the photos give it justice! Oxford is so unique because it is rich with history, and it’s booming with college students. It’s a beautiful city that is young at heart, yet has an old soul.
“Every city has a sex and an age which have nothing to do with demography. Rome is feminine. So is Odessa. London is a teenager, an urchin, and in this hasn’t changed since the time of Dickens. Paris, I believe, is a man in his twenties in love with an older woman.”
– John Berger
I’m reminded of this quote often when I think of Oxford. While I couldn’t give an exact profile of Oxford in that sense, you can’t help but notice this city has a distinct personality as you meander through the narrow alleyways and whimsical architecture.
Here are some photos to give you a glimpse into Oxford, the Fairytale City of England.
The Radcliffe Camera
The rad cam is one of the most famous landmarks in all of Oxford. It was constructed in 1737 and serves as a library to students of the University of Oxford.
My favorite thing to do in Oxford, is to simply just walk around the streets admiring all the beautiful architecture.
This may sound creepy, but when you get into the suburbs it is so fun to look at the windows of the houses, people here are really clever with their window displays.
The churches are beautiful!
“The Oxford Bridge of Sighs”
Another iconic landmark of Oxford! The official name is the Hertford Bridge, but due to it’s resemblance of the Venetian Bridge of Sighs, the name evolved.
Getting a rooftop view of the city is a must.
My favorite view of the city is from the top of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, where you can get a stunning 360 view of the city, the Radcliffe Camera, and All Souls College.
This charming cinema was my favorite place to catch a movie. I wish more theaters where I live in the US were as cute as this!
Did you know Oxford is actually a real fairytale city in England? Can you visualize what classic tale resembles the photos below?
The scenic grounds of the University of Oxford colleges.
The college courtyards are absolutely stunning and are often times open to the public between certain hours! Pictured below are the famous grounds of Christ Church.
Oxford is a timeless city that takes you back in history. The cobblestone streets, blooming flowers, and ornate architecture are just a few of the things that make Oxford seem like a city from a fairytale.
After all, the classic fairy tale Alice in Wonderland was written in Oxford!
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
Researching your trip to Vietnam and find yourself wondering, ‘Is Halong Bay Worth it?” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of the most famous natural wonders of Vietnam. Halong Bay is said to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places on…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Published on Sep 2, 2023 | Last updated Sep 6, 2023
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
by Natalie | Published on Apr 23, 2020 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Blog
Do you have a deep passion for travel but find yourself unable to embark on journeys? Here are a few imaginative ways to channel your wanderlust and express your affection for exploring, all within the confines of your own home.
If you’re travel-obsessed but are unable to travel. here are a few ways you can cure your “travel bug.”
Explore the world, at home.
1. Dive into your box of travel treasures
Does anyone else have a chest full of travel trinkets? Mine is stuffed full of everything from postcards, ticket stubs, or just little knick-knacks I’ve found along the way. This is the perfect time to go through it! I honestly had no idea what was in mine, until I took the time to really go through it. You may be surprised at some of the things you find, and the memories associated with them.
This ripped piece of paper doesn’t look like much, but it is one of my favorite travel souvenirs, and it was free! I found this piece of paper on the streets of a lovely little town in Cuba. I don’t know why I picked it up, or really why I even kept it but it’s one of my favorites.
2. Learn or perfect a hobby
Learning a hobby like photography, videography, or (travel) blogging are amazing hobbies to help you complement your love for travel.
3. Read that Travel-Inspired Coffee Table Book
We all have that travel-inspired coffee table we impulsively bought but haven’t read. Now is the perfect time to read it!
4. Catalog your travel photos.
Consider buying a hard drive to store all of your travel pictures. If you don’t have many photos, a flash drive will work as well. Once you have your storage device, create folders for each of your destinations. This has helped me massively in terms of organization and may put you at ease to know where exactly your pictures are.
5. Start a scrapbook or print book of your travel photos
Scrapbooking has always been something I enjoy. There is just such satisfaction in having all of your memories collected in one place. It’s also a fun thing to look back on with your friends and family. If you don’t have the patience for scrapbooking, organize a travel print book on Shutterfly.
6. Learn a new recipe from your favorite destination
My kitchen may not look like Thailand, but it can smell like it! Trying making goulash from Hungary, scones from England, or a Greek salad from Greece. Traveling has definitely expanded my imagination in the kitchen. Trying new international cuisine has kept me connected with learning about other cultures even I’m not traveling.
7. Read a book about a journey
If you are missing traveling, this book will take you all around the world and show you how you can grow by exploring. The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho is the perfect read for a time like this.
8. Explore somewhere new
Throw a dart on a map or dive into wanderlust Pinterest and discover a new destination you’ve never thought to travel to.
9. Start a journal
I’ve kept a journal since I was twelve! Writing is really therapeutic for me, and a great time capsule for my thoughts for certain milestones in life. Pictures are what you want people to see, but writing is how you really feel. Keep up with your journal on your next adventure to remember your travels.
Thanks for reading! I hope this post has helped you come up with ideas on how you can cure your “travel bug” in the comfort of your own home. I’d love to read in the comments below what you’ve been doing at home to feed your wanderlust.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
Researching your trip to Vietnam and find yourself wondering, ‘Is Halong Bay Worth it?” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of the most famous natural wonders of Vietnam. Halong Bay is said to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places on…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Published on Sep 2, 2023 | Last updated Sep 6, 2023
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
Morocco offers the bliss of the Sahara, the bustle of the city, and the calmness of the sea. If you need convincing on why you need to take a trip to Morocco, look no further. Here are some pictures of Morocco to inspire you to book a trip to this stunning country.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
My Morocco Essentials
Don’t Forget Your FREE Marrakech Printable
Here’s your free Marrakech printable to take with you on your Morocco trip so you don’t miss a thing.
Jemaa el-Fna square. The square offers a taste of the very essence of Moroccan culture. You can expect to enjoy fresh smoothies while you walk to the beat of drums as charmed snakes dance around you. Jemaa el-Fna Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Marrakech
2. The Sahara Desert
One of the most stunning natural sites in the world. Endless stretches of golden sand dunes, sculpted by the wind into graceful curves, create a seemingly unreal and enchanting view.
Sahara Desert
3. Essaouira
Essaouira is a sleepy fishing town that’s in the Western region of Morocco. Consider taking a short two-hour taxi ride from Marrakech. I recommend spending two days here, this charming town deserves more than just a day trip.
Essaouira
4. Tinghir
Tinghir, Morocco, offers a captivating journey into the heart of Berber culture. Immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of this ancient indigenous community.
Berber Home – Sahara Desert Tour
5. Aït Benhaddou
Take a walk through the ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aït Benhaddou. This stunning ancient fortified village is nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Made entirely of clay and straw, you’ll marvel at these intricate buildings.
Aït Benhaddou
Did You Know Going is My Secret to Scoring Insanely Cheap Flights?
6. Camel Trekking in the Sahara
Feel like a true desert nomad on a 3-day Merzouga Desert tour. This gentle giant took great care of me as we trekked through the golden dunes.
The Sahara Desert
7. Tuk-tuks in Marrakech
Tuktuks in Marrakech add a vibrant and lively touch to the bustling cityscape. Offering a thrilling and authentic local experience, tuk-tuks allow travelers to soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of Marrakech’s vibrant markets and historic landmarks.
Marrakesh
8. Fishing Port of Essaouira
The fishing port of Essaouira is filled with colorful gems throughout the market. This picturesque and bustling hub is where the sea and the city unite in harmony.
beautiful pictures of Morocco
9. Explore Dades Valley
Dades Valley is comprised of rugged gorges carved out by the Dadès River in Morocco. Here. you will observe different types of Moroccan lifestyles vastly different from city life.
Dades Valley
10. Camels in the Sahara
With their iconic humped backs, the camels of the Sahara gracefully traverse the vast dunes, effortlessly blending into the mesmerizing landscape.
Camel Squad in the Sahara
11. Selfies in the Sahara
No visit to the Sahara is complete without a dramatic desert selfie! The stunning sand dunes make for the perfect backdrop.
12. Learn about the beautiful Berber carpets.
Berber people are indigenous communities that live across Northern Africa. Berbers have their own language and are made up of different races and nationalities.
Berber Home – Sahara Desert Tour
13. Ancient landscapes
All across Morocco, you will get a glimpse of unique ancient landscapes like Aït Benhaddou. How can you not feel like Indiana Jones when you come across views like this?!
Aït Benhaddou
14. Adventure to the top of Aït Benhaddou
Get up close to the clay-made architectural wonders of Aït Benhaddou.
Aït Benhaddou
15. Capture the blue boats of Essaouira
The enchanting town of Essaouira is filled with colorful wooden boats that sway gently on the waves, while fishermen expertly mend their nets, creating a gorgeous scene of maritime activity.
Essaouira
I hope these beautiful pictures of Morocco inspire you to visit this breathtaking country.
Morocco’s beauty is a captivating fusion of landscapes that will leave any traveler in awe. From the majestic Atlas Mountains topped with snow to the golden sands of the Sahara Desert, the country’s natural scenery is breathtakingly diverse.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
Researching your trip to Vietnam and find yourself wondering, ‘Is Halong Bay Worth it?” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of the most famous natural wonders of Vietnam. Halong Bay is said to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places on…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Published on Sep 2, 2023 | Last updated Sep 6, 2023
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
