A Dozen Pieces = 3 Weeks Of Outfits

I rarely take trips that are longer than 10 days to 2 weeks, but I also like to have options when I travel. That can be difficult when you also want to travel light. As you know, if I go solo, I pretty much always pack in a backpack, because I don't like to hold people up trying to wrestle a bag into the overhead. It's entirely doable though, especially when traveling in the summer, spring, or early fall.

Now, the way to really get a lot out of your travel wardrobe is to not pack by day and instead pack a small mix-and-match capsule wardrobe. I did bring along one thing that didn't go with everything, and that was this red Trailblazers shirt I would wear on the plane, but it goes with almost everything else and it's made of a moisture-wicking athletic fabric, so it's perfect for hot weather and repping my city. I always bring along an outer layer and wear it on the plane (you can always take it off if it's too warm, but the plane is often cold), and this athletic jacket is perfect. Let's see how all the tops match (almost) all the bottoms I brought along with:

You can definitely swap out any of thes bottom pieces with something you like more. I enjoy a good pair of jeans with stretch and sneakers for walking all day, but if you prefer a pair of leggings, a longer skirt, or a comfortable pair of sandals, go for it. I almost always choose neutral bottoms and one fun piece that still goes with everything. 

So, I brought a total of 3 bottoms, plus the pair of jeans I was wearing. You don't have to bring that many, but if you're a chronic overpacker, this is definitely not going to feel like enough. In all honesty, it gives you so many options, without being overwhelming. Here we have jeans, my favorite pair of shorts (Columbia), my favorite black joggers (PrAna), and a snap skort (PrAna). I chose this color skort, because I also have a favorite pair of green joggers that I often take on trips and I don't need everything to be black. They have 2 regular pockets, a zip pocket, and a slip pocket on the undershorts. 

One of my packed tops is this fun shadow puppet bunny that I bought at a market in London that has a longer back than the front. My other packed things here is this pair of scalloped ballet flats (Skechers). They don't take up much room, they go with most things, and they're super comfy to walk in all day.

My next top in my  bag is a white linen tank, because it breathes well and can be dressed up or down. I also packed a longer cardigan that can keep me warm, but looks great with dressier items. It's a perfect item to wear to a nice restaurant that might be a little enthusiastic with their air conditioning, as a lot of places in the summer tend to be.

Next up is a basic cropped black tee. It is roomy, without being too long. You can get them in a bunch of colors, and I do have it in others, but black tends to hide dirt, if you happen to spill food or whatever on yourself.

Last, is this high-low split tail tank top. I've had this for forever and I love it. It can be sporty or casual or even dressy, depending on what you pair it with and accessories to add.

Okay, last last is this travel dress I love from PrAna. I have it in both rust and black and wish I had purchased it in a third color before they discontinued it. It has big pockets, it's the perfect length and it's amazingly comfortable. It looks layered, has a split hem on the back of the tank, and gives your body extra air flow when it's really hot out. You can add another layer, like I have, by throwing on a tee over it, making it look like two separate pieces, add the athletic jacket for a sporty look, or the cardigan for date night. 

While we're at it, that cardigan is a great cozy loung piece when you're just hanging around your hotel room. Throw it on over your pjs (these are from H&M and purchased from Poshmark) instead of a robe.

Last year, I bought this new backpack from a local company, Portland Gear, because it is waterproof (benefit if you live in Portland or another rainy place), it has a wide opening, so you can see everything inside and make it easier to pack, and because it came in this new pink color. Love!

All of my clothing fits in a medium packing cube and my underwear, socks, and extra bra will fit in a small one that I also put my travel lighted makeup mirror in for some cushioning. This bag fits everything else I need, too: my toiletry bag, my second pair of shoes, travel hair straightener, backup battery + cord, snacks, laptop, charging cords, a reusable grocery bag, a rain jacket, my reusable water bottle, and my tiny purse with all my everyday essentials in it. You can carry it if you want, but if you're traveling on a very budget airline and are limited to one personal item, then you can consolidate and this full bag still fits under the seat in front of you.

This backpack looks bigger than it actually is, mostly because it's wider than other backpacks I take, but it's easy to carry, has just enough pockets for everything and also has top handles and one of the front to help you pull it out of a car trunk, the overhead, and from under the seat. It also has little feet, so it sets upright when you're trying to pack and unpack it. When I posted about it on IG during my last trip, a friend said he and his wife saw it and purchased one for each of them for their next big trip. 

This is the standard size, but it also comes in a compact size for those who don't need to bring as much, use it as a commuter bag, or don't travel with a giant laptop like I do. This is the only bag I'll be taking on my next trip, which will be short, but it'll have enough room to bring back things that I may buy, too.

Anyway, I wanted to show you this great bag, but also how you can create 21 different outfits with not that many pieces, so you can wear an entirely unique outfit every day of your trip for 3 weeks or less, in case you care about looking different every day in pictures. I have traveled with much less and haven't felt limited by what I've brought. In fact, I'll have a much smaller selection on this next trip to Las Vegas, and we'll be looking at that soon.

What's your biggest packing struggle?

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Budget "Europe" for Summer

Europe is really hot this summer. It's one of the best values this year for travelers, but what if you can't afford a trip to Europe? Maybe it's absolutely not in your budget or maybe you have another trip coming up or maybe you're afraid to leave the country right now. In fact, several of my non-binary and trans friends have said they aren't leaving the U.S., due to fear that they will be hassled at security or barred from returning, because the political climate at the moment is horrifying if you don't conform to traditional gender norms.

There are precautions you can take when it comes to updating your passport and dealing with TSA, but that doesn't mean you want to put yourself in a situation that might be traumatizing, so let's get on with places you can go instead of actual Europe, that still feel like you're in Europe. No passport required!

Anchorage, Alaska is a short drive from a twin of the Norwegian Fjords

I spent part of my childhood in Alaska, and I can tell you how otherworldly it feels in parts. You can take glacier tours, spend so much time outside that you don't have to even see the city for most of your trip, and even take a tram to the top of a mountain. Some free things to do in Anchorage: The Ulu Factory to see how knives are made, Alaska Public Lands Information Center, and the Elmendorf State Fish Hatchery.

Aspen, Colorado has big Swiss Alps energy

Colorado is beautiful, and even Denver feels different than a lot of other big cities I've been in. In Aspen, head to Independence Pass at the Continental Divide for gorgeous pictures. If you need a break from hiking pristine trails, go explore Independence Ghost Town, Ute Cemetery, and Aspen Art Museum.

Calistoga, California brings a spa town of Czech Republic to you

With hot springs, mud baths, and vineyards added to actual castles, this Napa Valley town kind of has it all. Maybe with a bit of a higher price tag than a Czech vacation, but much cheaper airfare, so it probably evens out. When you aren't relaxing and luxuriating, you can visit the Petrified Forest, peruse the Oxbow Public Market, V Marketplace, and Napa Farmers Market, and check out the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum. You can get the Summer In the Vineyards Passport for big savings and feel a bit more like you've left the country.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts has Cornwall, England vibes

You can stroll the countryside and enjoy a meal in a lovely pub, but you can also harvest your own oysters and savor one of the most beautiful sunsets. Truro Vineyards gives free tours of the winery and distillery, see flowers for free at Spohr Gardens and Cape Cod Lavender Farm, and go ona free guided towur of the French Cable Station Museum.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California bears a strong resemblance to rural France and Germany

Fall in love with the storybook architecture that took hold in the 1920's and never left this little town. You also have the Carmel Boardwalk, the Scenic Road Walkway, and the Jones & Terwilliger Galleries. Do some boutique shopping at Carmel Plaza or The Barnyard.

Catalina Island, California can feel like Greece or the Amalfi Coast

I haven't been to Catalina Island since I was a kid and it's probably time for another visit. It always felt like a different world there. Take a ferry the 20 miles to the island with its crystal waters and rocky shoreline. It's easily walkable and even has its own fish fine art gallery called Afishonados Gallery.

Grand Marais, Minnesota transports you to lakeside villages of Sweden

Sweden is made up of islands and Grand Marais embodies that feel. Get your fill of seafood, go on a waterfall tour, and browse in Drury Lane Books. If you love hiking, there's so much to do, plus kayaking, bike riding, and even searching for agates at Five Mile Beach.

Leavenworth, Washington is a copy of a little German village

When we first moved to the Portland area, my family took a road trip up to Washington to see Leavenworth on the off-season. It was very cute, but we were the only people staying in our hotel. Leavenworth gets really busy during the fall, especially for Oktoberfest. You can enjoy activities all year round at Front Street Park, go hiking, fishing, or visit one of the wineries or breweries there.

Mendocino, California mirrors the dramatic coasts of England and Ireland

This walkable village overlooks the Pacific Ocean with breathtaking sea cliffs. It is home to Point Cabrillo Light Station State Park, which has free admission, the home of the city's founder, Ford House Visitor Center & Museum, which also has free entry, and Patterson's Irish Pub.

Montauk, New York puts you in a Denmark beach town 

If you enjoy surfing, or just like to watch surfing, Montauk is much like Klitmøller. There's also Shadmoor State Park, Lake Montauk, several attractive beaches, and dunes to walk along. Gosman's Dock is a collection of shops and restaurants and you can get culture at Second House Museum.

Santa Barbara, California does a good imitation of Madrid, Spain

Spanish settlers came to Santa Barbara in the 1700s and brought their architecture with them. Learn the history and take in these gorgeous buildings on a walking tour. Pack a picnic and watch the sunset and enjoy the roses at A.C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden, take a drive through Lompoc Flower Fields (meant to be enjoyed from your car), view 100 varieties of orchids at Santa Barbara Orchid Estate, or delight all your senses at Clairmont Lavender Farm. Other freebies include taking your photo at Chromatic Gate, visiting El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, and a self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour.

Solvang, California is a dupe for Denmark

Founded by Danish immigrants in 1911, the Danes built a mini Denmark here in the middle of California. The restuarant that opened that same year, Bit O' Denmark, still stands and serves up delicious, traditional food. Look for windmills, eat Danish pastries, and find a troll. Save money by visiting the free (donations accepted) Elverhøj Museum of History & Art, the Old Mission Santa Ines, and Hans Christian Andersen Park.

Sonoma County in California is your substitute for Provence, France

The lavender fields bloom in Sonoma summer, just like in Provence. If you've spent the bulk of your budget on a place to stay, don't worry, you can indulge in free wine tastings with the Sonoma County Vineyard Adventures, visit a local farm, take a self-guided tour of a garden like Luther Burbank Home & Gardens, or go hiking in the redwoods.

Temecula, California gives you the experience of Tuscany, Italy

With dozens of vineyards along the rolling hills, you'll have a hard time convincing yourself you're not in Tuscany. Europa Villag Wineries & Resort was designed to keep you in that state or mind. It has 3 tasting rooms, each modeled after Spain, Italy, and France. Once you're ready to explore the rest of the region, you can do so on a budget with free activities like Sugarplum Zoo, Temecula Valley Museum, Old Town Temecula Farmer's Market, where you can pick up some fresh fruits to feed to the ducks at Temecula Duck Pond & Park.

As you can see, you could take a California road trip and hit a lot of "Europe" in one go. In fact, this sounds like an amazing idea for a future trip to me. But even if you can only just choose one or two destinations, you can stil enjoy tricking yourself into feeling like you aren't in the U.S. for a bit.

Portland Coffee Tour 2025 - Part 6

June has been a great month to get out of the house and go hang at a coffee shop. You know I love a cool coffee shop vibe, almost as much as I love a great cup of coffee. Portland knows how to brew beans and turn them into something magical and I really found some of those special places this month. 

If you enjoy a good cup of coffee, brewed in a chill environment, read on for some shops to hit up if you come to Portland (we're in the top 10 cities for inclusivity for LGBTQ+ travelers, in the top 20 cities that are best for visiting for 4th of July, and our airport is awesome) or if you live here and are looking for a new spot.

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Chilita's Coffee

There are so many coffee shops in bookshops, but this one is actually in the lobby of the Tigard Public Library. I wasn't expecting it, since nowhere does it say that it's not on the street, but I wasn't upset by it. This shop serves up basic espresso drinks - I got a vanilla latte - and breakfast sandwiches. They don't look like much, but they are simple and delicious. The seating here was so chill that I hung out to do some work for longer than I absolutely needed to. 

The lobby is really bright and open, with tall ceilings and two entire walls of windows. There's also an art installation hanging from the ceiling. It's welcoming and comfortable. You can pick up reserved books via their book lockers or you can finish your drink and go peruse the library. This shop also serves puffle waffles with ice cream, danishes, yogurt, and lunch sandwiches, so you're set for whatever time of day you visit.

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Baristopia

I have been meaning to go to this little self-contained neighborhood for a while. They are apartments on top and the street in the middle has retail and restaurants on the bottom floor with (limited) parking. There's even a dental office here, so you almost don't have to leave if you live there. Baristopia has a gorgeous Instagram and I was excited to have a little bit of time to nip over there and try out their coffee.

They have your standard espresso drinks and then a handful of specialty drinks that all sound amazing. I asked the barista for her recommendation and she Sweet Europe Latte, which is a tiramisu base with Irish cream and sprinkles of cocoa powder on top. It sounds like a lot, but it really all complemented each other and was an awesome mix. I also chose a pistachio rose croissant. They're made by a local bakery called Nuvrei. The croissant is really pink and the pistachio filling was just enough and a pretty green. They top them with big pink sugar crystals. 

The shop itself is Asian owned and brought their roasting style from Shanghai. While there, the owner was experimenting with different flavor combos, so I know how they got this drink that I was currently drinking. It has the popular clean white and wood interior, but with a hint of cabin cozy with a large seating area surrounding a fireplace. If you time it right, you can get a quick, light breakfast here and then walk down the block and eat lunch at one of the interesting restaurants there, like the Asian chicken wings taproom.

Battle Grounds Gaming Cafe

I've been working really hard on growing the community around the nonprofit I am on the board of and we have started holding what we call magical meet and greets, where we get current and potential volunteers to come meet us and play some games and chat and ask us any questions they have. Our last one was held at a gaming shop called Battle Grounds, where you can play D&D and other TTRPGs and also eat and drink while there. The cafe has a lot of delicious espresso drinks and a big selection of pastries (some of which might also come from Nuvrei) from Farina Bakery and bagels from Spielman's. There's even meat and cheese platters. 

Now, I didn't view this as a regular coffee tour stop, because I was mostly there in another capacity, but the drinks were delicious. I had two. I had a regular vanilla latte and then their campfire smores latte. I also picked up the Everything Galette, which was a super buttery pastry with cream cheese and everything bagel seasoning. Everyone who stopped at the coffee bar and came in to meet us was very complimentary of what they got.

Next month I'll be out of town for a good portion of it, so I'm already jumping on my July visits early. One is a different location that I reviewed quite a few years ago and one is a totally new coffee lounge altogether, so stay tuned for those and another shop I have yet to decide on. If you follow me on Instagram, you'll see short reviews of those already, plus new places (to me) I'll be drinking at in Vegas and in the Tacoma, Washington area.

Tell me your favorite coffee shops from wherever you are or wherever you've traveled.