8 Of The Best Happy Hour Spots In LA

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

The top Los Angeles Happy Hour locations make an appearance on the blog this month.

We want to make sure that if we’ve tried out places you guys get the 411 on what to do, where to go, & of course the details on eating and drinking.

Ok, let’s get into it. Here are 8 of our favorite happy hour spots in LA, what we recommend trying off the happy hour menu, and other vital details on what to expect at each place.

Pro tip: When you make a reservation, remember that most places have dress code requirements. No joggers and sweatpants, beachwear, athletic tops and t-shirts, flip flops, or slides.

Mercado

Food: Mexican

Menu: Try the jicama shrimp tacos and margs. Salud!

Happy Hours: Tue-Thu 5-7 pm, Fri-un 4-6 pm

Parking: Valet parking Tue-Sunday ($8), street parking is free after 8 pm

Atmosphere: Casual

Reservations: https://www.cocinasycalaveras.com/mercado-la-reservations

Toca Madera

Food: Mexican Steakhouse

Menu: Their Rosé sangria goes well with manchego truffle fries, and guacamole and plantains for the table!

Happy Hours: 3 pm-6 pm

Parking: No parking close by (Über it, or park further away and walk)

Atmosphere: Warm, upscale

Reservations: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/tocamaderawesthollywood

Robata Jinya

Food: Robatayaki style of Japanese cooking (everything is grilled over an open flame)

Menu: Our favorite: shishito peppers, California hand roll, and Tebasaki (Chicken Wings) with a Sapporo

Happy Hours: 2 pm-6 pm

Parking: Free parking is available

Atmosphere: Casual, and busy

Reservations: https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/robatajinyahollywood

E.P. & L.P.

Food: Southeast Asian and Californian-style flavors

Menu: Burger (cheeseburger or Impossible burger), Calidad Mexican Style Lager

Happy Hours: Monday-Friday, 4 pm -6 pm

Parking: Valet and parking garage available

Atmosphere: Restaurant and rooftop bar, casual and upscale

Reservations: https://resy.com/cities/la/epandlp?date=2023-01-28&seats=2

Belles Beach House

Food: Cocktails and Hawaiin grub

Menu: Prosecco with mochiko chicken nuggets, crispy rock shrimp, and avocado crispy rice

Happy Hours: Mon-Thurs 4 pm – 6 pm

Parking: Multiple parking lots and street parking are available

Atmosphere: Casual, relaxed space with lots of tropical plants

Reservations: https://www.bellesbeachhouse.com/reservations/

La Boheme

Food: American-Mediterranean fare

Menu: Spicy margarita and buffalo cauliflower or chicken wings is our go to

Happy Hours: Thurs-Frids 5 pm – close

Parking: valet parking is available

Atmosphere: Indoor, and outdoor seating, romantic atmosphere, smart casual

Reservations: https://labohemeweho.com/#reservations_open_table

De Buena Planta

Food: Plant-based Mexican food, fine mezcals, and organic margaritas

Menu: Flaquita margarita with guacamole and chips

Happy Hours: Weekdays 4 pm – 10 pm

Parking: Parking lots close by and street parking

Atmosphere: Pop-up created by The Butcher’s Daughter, situated outside in a converted parking lot, twinkling string lights, casual

Reservations: https://resy.com/cities/vnc/de-buena-planta?date=2023-01-28&seats=2

Issima

Food: European-inspired fine dining

Menu: Paloma, and wood fire wild mushroom flatbread, chargrilled shrimp skewers,

Happy Hours: Tues – Friday, 6 pm – 7:30 pm

Parking: Valet or nearby street parking

Atmosphere: Dine poolside, upscale, inspired by luxury beach vacation

Reservations: https://www.issima.la/venue/

The 7 Best Places To Get Vodka Pasta In LA

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

Pasta Talk LA

Best places to get vodka pasta in LA: ospi, Ysabel, Palmeri, Horses, Il Fornaio, Jon n Vinnys, Elephante

Ospi

lunch, dinner, coffee & brunch

Mon – Thu 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM | Fri 11:30 AM -10:30 PM |

Sat 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM | Sun 10:30 AM – 9:30 PM

Vodka Pasta: handmade pasta, spicy rigatoni alla vodka, $25

Dessert: cannoli

Atmosphere: Located in West Hollywood, casual dining

Ysabel

Mon – Fri: 6 PM – 2 AM | Weekends: 10 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 2 AM

Weekend Brunch: 10 AM – 2 PM

Vodka Pasta: Hand Cut Rigatoni, tomato vodka sauce, Calabrian chili, basil,$32

for dessert: raspberry pavlova with frozen honey yogurt, macerated raspberries

Atmosphere: Located in West Hollywood, upscale, perfect spot to catch up with friends or romantic date

Palmeri

Vodka Pasta: Homemade “Garganelli” with prosciutto and Vodka, $15

For dessert: Panna Cotta Citris Scented panna Cotta

Atmosphere: Located in Beverly Hills, Italian-inspired eatery

Horses

Vodka Pasta: The vodka pasta is off-the-menu

Dessert: Champagne gelée with jersey cream

Atmosphere: Located in Echo Park, chic bar and restaurant

Il Fornaio

Vodka Pasta: Rigatoni Alla Vodka pasta tubes with bacon, vodka-cream-tomato sauce & grana padano, $19

Dessert: Tiramisu,treviso-style tiramisù with ladyfingers soaked in rum & espresso, layered with mascarpone & topped with a dusting of cocoa powder

Atmosphere: Classic Italian eatery in Beverly Hills, warm and inviting atmosphere, great for date night, family and friend gatherings to celebrate a special occasion

Jon n Vinnys

Vodka Pasta: Spicy fusilli, vodka, basil, parmigiano, $20.75

Dessert: affogato: vanilla soft serve, espresso

Atmosphere: quirky and casual in Culver City

Elephante

Vodka Pasta: Vodka sauce canestri pasta, calabrian chili, basil, parmigiano, $24

Dessert: Chocolate torta salted caramel, whipped mascarpone

Atmosphere: Coastal-inspired, casual dining

Can’t Miss California Music Festivals in 2023

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

As 2022 winds down and Spotify Wrapped reveals just how many times you listened to the same song on repeat (is it too basic to reveal our top two were Taylor Swift and Bad Bunny?), it’s time to think about what you want to listen to (and what events you want to travel to) in 2023. With so many great festivals happening up and down the Golden State, there’s something for every playlist out there. Here’s our top picks for California Festivals next year:

Rolling Loud LA – Inglewood – March 3-5

Rolling Loud is the world’s largest hip hop festival and its lineup for LA this year is stacked: headliners include Travis Scott, Future, and Playboi Carti and there are ton of well known acts as well as up-and-coming artists making appearances. Hip Hop is such a vital part of LA’s culture so being able to enjoy it with fellow fans in LA makes it that much better. If you thinking of heading out for the festival, don’t forget to check out Crewfare’s travel hub, which will get you the best rates on hotel reservations for Rolling Loud LA.

Coachella – Palm Springs – April 14-16 and 21-23

The classic–two weekends in the desert with some of music’s biggest acts. We couldn’t pick the most incredible of Coachella’s past performances so we picked some starting with the letter B: Beyonce, Billie Eilish, Black Pink, the Black Keys. The lineup for 2023 hasn’t been announced yet (though Frank Ocean, who had to cancel last year, will be there), but no matter who’s performing it promises to be an amazing weekend of listening, partying, and making memories with your friends in the sun.

Bottle Rock – Napa Valley – May 26-28

Bottle Rock is Napa Valley’s big music, food, and wine festival. Their lineups skew towards rock and pop, with enough variety to find something for even the most discerning musical palette. Plus you’ll be in one of the most beautiful parts of California enjoying wines from all the different vineyards and food from some of their award winning restaurants. Sounds like a perfect Cali Weekend to us.

I Love RNB – Long Beach – May 27

This music festival makes it easy to remember why you love R&B, with Ashanti and Ja Rule at top billing and tons of other amazing R&B artists performing as well. The venue for RNB is the Queen Mary, in Long Beach, which is a super cool spot right on the water. California vibes and good times. Check out the Crewfare travel hub to get the best rates at a nearby hotel.

Outside Lands – San Francisco – August 11-13

Outside Lands provides three days of amazing musical acts, cool art, great food, wine, beer, and cannabis–pretty much everything you think of when you think of San Francisco. It’s also got the perfect San Francisco venue, Golden Gate Park, right in the heart of SF. Outside Lands has a reputation as the festival all the locals go to, which makes its hometown vibe even more appealing. Don’t be surprised by the cold nights, even in August!

Can’t Miss Miami Events In February

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

In most parts of the country, February is kind of the worst. Sure, there’s Valentine’s day, which is nice and all, but that’s a very fleeting bright spot in a month otherwise defined by darkness, slush, and the distinct ebbing of Holiday Spirits and New Year Energy. In Miami, though, the weather is warm without being hot, the sun is out, and the beaches are open. Here’s our picks for the best Miami events to check out this February and escape the winter doldrums!

SOBE Wine and Food Festival – Feb 23-26, 2023

For fans of good food and wine (or just fans of the Food Network), the SOBE Wine and Food Festival is pretty much a dream come true. With dozens of events ranging from a headlining Burger Bash with Emeril Lagasse to intimate dinners created by Michelin starred chefs to Masterclasses and neighborhood food tours, the SOBE WFF has something for everyone. Crewfare is excited to be partnering with SOBE WFF to bring you the best rates for hotels near Miami Beach. Bring your appetite!

Ground Up Music Festival – Feb 3-5, 2023

Music aficionados who want to branch out their playlists will certainly enjoy a weekend at the Ground Up Music Festival, happening February 3-5. It’s hard to pin down the exact type of music playing at the Ground Up Music Festival–it’s headlined, as usual, by Snarky Puppy, a Grammy-winning jazz ensemble. But it also features pop and blues-inspired artists, as well as acts from around the globe. This year Ground Up will host three days and nights of performances at the outdoor Miami Beach Bandshell in North Beach.

We Belong Here – Feb 25-26, 2023

If what you need in February is to dance all night (and day), then We Belong Here, happening on Virginia Key Beach February 25-26, is for you. Featuring a 360* dance floor and 3 hour sets from acts like Kaskade Redux and Lane 8, We Belong Here turns Virginia Key Beach (an Island just 10 minutes out from Miami’s Financial District) into a “pop up beach club”. Check out We Belong Here’s travel hub to get a feel for where you could stay to enjoy a weekend in Miami.

Coconut Grove Art Festival – Feb 18-20, 2023

The Coconut Grove Art Festival is an almost 60-year-old tradition in Miami. This homegrown weekend showcases hundreds of artists. You can view juried prizes and purchase original artwork that you can add to your budding collection. It’s in a great location, overlooking Biscayne Bay, and you can check out cooking demonstrations and live music in addition to the beautiful art.

Miami International Boat Show – Feb 15-19, 2023

If you’re a boat lover, the Miami Boat Show, happening February 15-19 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, is the place you want to be. While there are tons of options for boat buyers to test drive and check out the latest models and types of boats, all those same options are available for people who just like to be out on the water on occasion. The boat show includes an indoor portion at the Convention Center and an outdoor portion on the docks, so you’ll get plenty of time enjoying the best of Miami’s sun and water. This is another event partnering with Crewfare so make sure you check out our travel hub when you’re booking!

How To Save For Event Travel in 2023

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

Are you getting excited for all the fun events that are coming up in 2023? Whether you’re looking to party on the slopes, wine and dine by the beach, or mine some crypto, there are so many cool festivals, concerts and conferences coming up. It can be very hard to choose, and more importantly, it can be really hard to afford. Even once you’ve gotten tickets to a festival, you still need to get there, get around, feed yourself, and find a way to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. So what can you do now to make space in your budget for some fun adventures in 2023? We have some ideas.

Psst–before you do any of these things, make sure you know where your money goes! Budgeting tips only work if you already have a budget. You can use an app like Mint or, if you’re a spreadsheet nerd, import all your credit card charges and bills into a spreadsheet and get to sorting. Even though getting to see Wilco in Iceland can feel essential, you’ve got to make sure you’ve got your main bills–rent, food, car, etc.–accounted for first.

Many small tickets or one big event ticket?

Money for traveling to events and festivals probably comes out of some sort of “fun stuff” or “entertainment” category in your budget, so think about how you want to spend that money. For example, you could spend your fun stuff money in small amounts over time–let’s say several small concerts close to home–OR you could buy a weekend pass to a festival like Rolling Loud where you can see lots of your favorite artists in one go.

Split travel costs with friends

Any event you want to go to will be even more enjoyable if you share it with your friends. You’ll also then be able to share things like: hotel rooms, taxi rides, meals, and more. If you get enough of a crowd together, you might even be able to investigate group rates (or, if you book through Crewfare, you can skip that step since they’ve already found the best group rates for any event you’re attending).

Economize now to spend later

It can be hard in the moment to decide whether or not any one individual purchase–a night out with friends, a third latte, a new jacket–is worth your money. But if you do your math ahead of time, you’ll be surprised how much money you can move out of one budget category into another. Propose a potluck night at home with friends instead of a dinner out at a fancy restaurant. If you skip your daily latte for a whole month, you’ll find yourself close to enough money for a plane ticket at the end of that month. Remind yourself that an outfit you already own (or one you’ve thrifted!) will look just as cute as a new one in the photos you take at Dreamville.

Become a travel-hacker

Travel hacking is a way of smartly taking advantage of hotel, airline, and credit card rewards programs to “earn” upgrades and freebies when you are traveling. Definitely check in on your own finances before you get started (i.e. if you have a lot of credit card debt you’re already dealing with, this probably isn’t your best bet for you). Here’s a beginners guide to travel hacking, if you think this might be a good fit for you.

Fund your event travel with a side hustle

Side hustles aren’t for everyone, but if there’s a skill that you have, a craft you enjoy, or an activity you’re known for doing, see if you can convert that into a few paying gigs. Love dogs? See if there are any pet-sitting opportunities near you. Knit hats? See if there are any buyers on Etsy. Take good photos? See if there are any couples or families looking to do a photo shoot. Put all your proceeds into your travel fund and you don’t have to feel bad about any of your spending on event expenses.

Crewfare Travel Tips: Carry-on Packing

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

When you’re traveling to a festival, it can feel like you need to prepare for every possibility–what if it rains? What if I lose my hoody? What will look best in the photos? Before you know it you’ve stuffed your entire closet into an enormous duffel which you are then stuck waiting for at baggage claim and then hauling around a new city. It’s exhausting and not worth it. Don’t worry, we’ve put together some tips for getting everything you need into one airline approved carry-on.

Check the weather ahead of time

You might be traveling from a warm spot to a colder climate or vice versa, so check the weather at your destination to see what you’ll need. Desert festivals don’t usually require rain gear, but an accurate forecast might say otherwise. Save yourself guesswork by packing for the predicted weather.

Do some sole-searching

Shoes take up a ton of space in luggage, so cut down on how many pairs you have to bring. Sadly this means that your most distinctive shoes that only go with one outfit should be left at home in favor of a (still cute) pair that goes with all your clothing. Wear your biggest shoes when you travel–that way you’ll have more space in your suitcase for actual clothing and smaller shoes like flip flops. Pro-tip–stuff socks or other small items inside packed shoes to help them keep their shape without wasting space.

Plan your outfits and look for versatile layers

Instead of packing “options” decide ahead of time what you want to wear and only bring those items. And let’s be real: at a three day festival, you can’t wear the same thing every day. But there might be parts of your outfits that can be reused. A cool vest or jacket won’t get too sweaty and can be worn on the plane as easily as to a venue a few days in a row.

Budget to buy some things on arrival

Often the source of over-packing is fear–what if I lose my sunglasses? What if someone spills a drink on me and I can’t do laundry? What if there’s a hot tub at the hotel and I want to take a dip? So instead of packing like a boy scout–prepared for all possibilities–prepare yourself mentally to solve problems after you arrive. Unexpected rainstorm? Buy a cheap poncho at a drugstore. Colder than you expected? Dash into the nearest clothing store and buy a sweatshirt. Better yet, get some festival merch–functional and commemorative.

Travel-size isn’t just for toiletries

Definitely start with travel-size toiletries–easier for packing, easier for going through the security line at the airport. But keep in mind that certain clothing types pack better than others. Puffer jackets can be squished down way smaller than wool coats. Black leggings can be a good base for any outfit but take up less space than a pair of jeans. Using packing cubes or even gallon size ziploc bags for all your different categories–tops, bottoms, electronics, etc.–keeps your suitcase compressed and organized. No huffing and puffing as you attempt to zip it shut.

Crewfare Survival Guide to Rolling Loud LA

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

Hip Hop fans are eagerly waiting to find out the full lineup for Rolling Loud LA, happening March 3-5, 2023 in Inglewood. If previous Rolling Louds are any indication, it’s going to be some of the biggest names in Hip Hop, as well as exciting up-and-coming rappers and Hip Hop artists. Though you can’t yet plan your set list, you can get started on planning your weekend. Here’s our top tips for making the most of the world’s biggest Hip Hop festival.

Pack your purse or bag wisely

Rolling Loud only allows clear bags and backpacks that are smaller than 12” x 6” X 12”. You can get away with a small clutch (less than 6.5”x 4.5”), but everything else is a no-go. You don’t want to be surprised by this at the entrance! Make sure you have an appropriate bag and pack it carefully. Familiarize yourself with Rolling Loud’s bag policy, including items that are and are not allowed (pro tip: ditch the aerosol sunscreen, bring chapsticks and eye drops unopened). If you don’t yet own a clear backpack, you can get a Rolling Loud branded one ahead of time.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

When the bench is as deep as it is at Rolling Loud, you don’t want to miss a thing. That means you need to pace yourself–don’t drink too much too fast, remember to eat, and remember to drink water! A spring day in LA is basically perfect weather, and with all the excitement of being at such an amazing show it’s easy to forget how tired your body is getting. One thing you can bring into Rolling Loud is a clear (empty) Camelbak, so you can easily keep it full and keep your body going for the entire festival.

Learn about parking at Hollywood Park

If you’re planning on driving to SoFi stadium for Rolling Loud, first of all, make sure you have a sober driver lined up. Then, make a parking plan. You can purchase parking passes ahead of time in one of SoFi stadium’s lots using Parkwhiz. Another alternative is to look for a secure garage near a Metro station and take the C Line to Hawthorne/Lennox Station. From there you can get a shuttle service to SoFi stadium. If you’ve ever sat in a parking lot traffic jam at the end of a long day, you can understand why a metro ride might feel like a better option.

Bring portable chargers!

Remember how we said you should pack your bag wisely? Well extra battery life for your phone is something that you should definitely bring with you. Bring your spare chargers so you don’t have to face the dread of trying to find your friend without a phone in a crowd of multiple thousands.

Know where and when you’re meeting your friends

Speaking of the dread of finding friends without a phone…make a plan for when and how you’re going to meet up with your crew at various points in the festival. Things happen, especially if you have that one friend that insists on running away from the crew. So pick a visible location inside or outside of the venue where you and your friends can plan to meet up when it’s time to go home.

Dress Right

Like we said, March in LA is kind of perfect weather–low seventies and sunny. But if you’re not from LA, be warned that those nights can get chilly! If you’re dancing in a crowd you’ll be burning up, but once you stop you’ll cool off real fast. Layer up so you can strip down or bulk up as needed throughout the day and night.

Find the right place to stay in LA

Crewfare has teamed up with Rolling Loud to bring you a great selection of hotels. These hotel deals are available whether you are traveling to Rolling Loud alone or with a huge crew of people. Future you, happy and exhausted from a full day at Rolling Loud, will definitely appreciate that you chose a great spot to rest your head.

Love,

The Crew

Five Can’t-Miss European Festivals in 2023

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

Traveling to festivals, as you know, is tons of fun. You get to be around some of your best friends, meet new people who share the same interests as you, and have a great time making memories that will last a lifetime. This year, add “international travel” to that checklist. Traveling abroad to festivals adds another layer of awesomeness. You get to expand your horizons, see sights and places you’ve never been before, and generally experience things that are new to you–new foods, new cultures, new people. Check out our top European Festivals in 2023.

Wilco Festival in Reykjavik, Iceland – April 3-7, 2023

Wilco has been performing together for over two decades, putting out twelve studio albums that feature their own distinctive brand of rock’n’roll. Whether you identify with their “dad-rock” reputation or not, there’s no denying that their catalog is impressive and they put on a hell of a live show. The Wilco Residency in Iceland is the perfect excuse to go see some living legends perform and then explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world. There’s geysers, natural hot springs, stunning hikes, and a great nightlife scene (required when nights last as long as they do in Iceland). And Crewfare can help you find the perfect place to stay with all your friends!

Croatia Yacht Week – July 23-30, 2023

Croatia is known for its beautiful, pebbled beaches, scenic towns tucked into coves, and the crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming. So what better way to explore the “Pearl of the Adriatic” than by boat? During Croatia Yacht Week, happening this summer during the last week of July, you and your friends can charter a yacht (or find a berth to share) and then spend the week relaxing while your captain takes care of the rest. Each day you’ll travel from port to port, explore Croatia’s historic towns, stop to eat and swim, and then meet up with the other participating yachts for float parties, discos, and more.

Mad Cool Festival in Madrid – July 2023

Since 2016, Mad Cool Festival has featured rock, indie and pop music acts. 2022 featured major names like Metallica, Imagine Dragons, Florence and the Machine, Jack White, and more. Although the dates and headliners are still TBD we know some things will remain the same: venue in sunny Madrid, late Spanish nights, where opening acts don’t even take the stage until the 6pm, and collaborations with local artists, photographers, and fashionistas. In other words, a perfect Spanish holiday.

Oktoberfest in Germany – Sep 16 – Oct 3, 2023

Each year in Germany, Oktoberfest–a celebration of beer and Bavarian culture–is held at the largest fairground in Munich, the Theresienwiese. Oktoberfest dates back over two hundred years and is known for its fun, friendly atmosphere. In between rounds of beer you can explore the rides, sample delicious German food, and listen to live music. Sport the traditional Dirndls or Lederhosen while sharing a round of pints with friends old and new in one of the many beer tents.

Wherever you head this year, don’t forget to check out Crewfare for the best hotel rates, festival tips, travel solutions, and more.

Best Winter Events on the Slopes

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

Too many people approach winter like a bear: they hole up under as many blankets as possible and simply wait it out. Effective, but boring. Winter doesn’t merely have to be endured. There’s so many fun things to do and places to go. That’s why we thought we’d round up some of our favorite winter events happening all over the world this year.

Open the ski-season at Rise Ski Festival in France – December 10-17, 2022

Ring in the beginning of ski season at Rise Ski Festival, taking place on Europe’s largest skiiable glacier, Les Deux Alpes, in France. This week-long event includes plenty of snow time, yes, but also boasts a ton of musicians, parties, food and wine (this is France, after all). Seasoned shredders will recognize that the Alps are one of the most beautiful places to enjoy the sport. And if you’re a mountain novice, maybe this is your year to learn while taking in truly breathtaking views.

Enjoy some quirky Aspen traditions at Wintersköl – Jan 12-15, 2023

If you like beautiful mountains and fresh, cold air, but don’t need the excuse of skiing or snowboarding to enjoy it, then we definitely recommend Winterskol. Winterskol seeks to celebrate the unique culture of Aspen with events ranging from a soup-making competition among local restaurants to a snow sculpture park. It caps off with a torchlight parade and fireworks on Aspen Mountain.

Watch movies and spot celebrities at Sundance – January 26-29, 2023

The 2023 Sundance Film Festival is taking place from Jan 19 – Jan 29, though what’s considered the Sundance “weekend” will be from the 26-29. Park City is one of the prettiest places to be in winter–sort of like being inside a little snow globe. But enjoying the scenery is just what you do in between movie screenings, panels, and parties. Where else will you get to watch future Oscar winning films, hear from creators and actors, and rub elbows with A-list stars. Try to find a place to stay with a hot tub so you can enjoy the cold winter nights!

Catch the X Games in Aspen, CO – Jan 27-29, 2023

X Games Aspen 2023 is free to attend. You read that right, it’s free to go and watch dozens of the world’s top winter athletes compete in skiing and snowboarding competitions. Whether you like watching slopestyle, slalom, jumps, or half-pipes, the X-games are the original source for some of our favorite winter Olympic sports. Aspen has a great nightlife scene as well, with free shuttle buses keeping you warm as you barhop.

Rock out at Rock the Pistes in France – March 12-18, 2023

Rock the Pistes is an annual music festival featuring live performances from international pop and rock musicians right on the ski slopes of the French and Swiss Alps. In addition to the main performances, there are additional “apres-ski” concerts across the Portes du Soleil Resorts, in both France and Switzerland. Happening in mid-March, this festival is one of the best ways to enjoy winter while celebrating the return of spring.

Party on and off the slopes at Snowboxx Ski Music Festival in France – March 18-25, 2023

If you want to keep the party going after Rock the Pistes, you can always hop over to Avoriaz, France for an extra week of skiing, raving, and exploring at Snowboxx Ski Music Festival. The resort where it’s held is walkable/skiable so you can focus on enjoying world-class slopes, french food, igloo parties, and amazing performances all night.

Rave at the top of the world at Tomorrowland Winter in France – March 18-24, 2023

Tomorrowland hosts a series of music festivals across Europe. Tomorrowland Winter, happening at the top of the Alpe d’Huez, promises an unforgettable experience surrounded by natural beauty. You’ll be able to dance to EDM, check out the otherworldly costumes and get to know your fellow festival-goers who promise to become tomorrow’s best friends.

Laugh it off at Altitude Comedy Festival in Austria – April 3-7, 2023

At altitude, everyone seems funny, including the many up-and-coming comedians performing over the course of a week in Mayrhofen, Austria. The comedy shows at night are the perfect entertainment after a full day of skiing, snowboarding, or just exploring the Mayrhofen glacier that provides a unique setting for laughter and winter fun.

Dance through Winter’s End at Snowbombing in Austria – April 10-15, 2023

Snowbombing is one of the original ski resort festivals, held at the Mayrhofen ski resort in Austria. You can alternately relax, party, ski, and enjoy time with your friends making memories while enjoying the classic Austrian ski culture (BYO Leiderhosen).

Chill out at Zermatt Unplugged in Switzerland – April 11-15, 2023

Zermatt Unplugged is a great festival for music lovers who want to hear a variety of musicians while taking in the iconic view of the Matterhorn in Switzerland. These acoustic performances create an intimate atmosphere amongst the classic Swiss Chalets and rugged mountains. The great part of festivals like Zermatt Unplugged is that you get to experience both the festival and the culture around it. Don’t forget to eat some fondue!

Wherever you head this winter, we hope you’ll be able to bring your crew along with you! All of these events are great places to meet up with friends and make some new memories together.

6 Of The Best Vacation Dining Spots In NYC

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2025 by Mikayla Allen

Picking a place to eat in NYC can be about as overwhelming as going to a grocery store when you’re hungry.

There are so many options!! But we don’t mess around.

The key to having a great NYC eating experience is to keep things spontaneous but also have some spots picked out.

We like to plan and knock out some of NYC’s best dining spots in the smartest way possible. The goal is to hit the most amazing places with the best atmosphere while we’re here.

So we’re sharing our action plan to get the best food experience. Here are 6 places we have an insane desire to go BACK and eat at again.

*keep reading to get our tips on how to score a table at Lilia which is known for being hard to get a table
**pair these food experiences with your {insert tickets for festival plug} itinerary to get the best NY experience

We love NY!!! You have to try (in no particular order):

For Your Next Brunch:

Fabrique Bakery

Neighborhood: Meatpacking District Type: Swedish global chain bakery

Type: Swedish global chain bakery

Think cinnamon buns, ham and cheese croissants, sourdough bread, and bistro seating.

Do yourself a favor and get the CARDAMOM BUN and let us know if you ever find one better in the world.

The place is so much fun! It’s small with a minimalist look, and white tile and glass interior.

And you won’t need a reservation.

Good Thanks

Neighborhood: Lower East Side
Type: Australian cafe/bakery with brunch staples

LOTS OF HEALTHY OPTIONS (avocado toast, smoothies with collagen). Casual atmosphere, no reservations needed.

Best Damn Dinner Options:

Lilia

Neighborhood: Brooklyn Type: Haute Italian

Type: Haute Italian

ONE OF OUR FAVORITE PASTA PLACES.

The service, ambience, food…A plus. Missy Robin’s is the chef & she just kills it in every way possible.

This is a total special occasion spot, their interior is chic, classic casual. Seriously go!!! It’s the best.

There is also Lilia cafe which is open during the day for brunch.

+ Here’s one major tip. If your goal is to eat here, the best way to snag a table is either to call between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m 718-576-3095 and to set a Notify on resy.com ahead of time. I would add that yes they do accept walk-ins to eat at the bar.

Misi

Neighborhood: Williamsburg Type: Simple Italian Cooking

Type: Simple Italian Cooking

This is Missy Robin’s second location. THEIR PASTAS ARE DIE. They also have the most delicious homemade gelato.

Think clean, white dining room with a view of the Williamsburg Bridge.
+To book a table, use the same tips we recommend for booking at Lilia and call.

Rubirosa

Neighborhood: Nolita
Type: Italian, American classics

HAS THE BEST BUTTER RAVIOLI (AND OBVIOUSLY THE TIE-DYE PIZZA) in the city, in our opinion.

Super casual. Book ahead of time and be prepared for bustling crowds. That or order food to your hotel if you’re looking for a quieter experience.

La Mercerie

Neighbourhood: Soho
Type: Old School French cooking

Their crepes are life changing. THEIR CROISSANTS ARE JUST HEAVEN.

Plus (somewhat of a love story here…): their chef, Marie-Aude Rose married to another chef Daniel Rose, open up restaurants together. This is one of them.

It’s an all-day-cafe (brunch, lunch, and dinner) located inside an upscale artisan furniture shop. Bonus, you can try out all crafted dinnerware and then buy after should you fall in love.