Hello, fabulous! Let me tell you about the time I let go of the clipboard...

Those of you who know me know I am that person when it comes to travel planning. The one with the color-coded Google Doc, the backup reservations, the “just in case” itinerary printed out and also screenshot on my phone. I plan. It’s basically my love language.

So you’d think Valentine’s Day would’ve had me in full spreadsheet mode. But this year, I wasn’t even stressed about it. We’d just gone to Puerto Rico and had Hawai’i on the calendar. The Amalfi Coast was already being whispered about for the fall. I was completely at peace with a nice dinner and a good bottle of wine.

Speed, however, had feelings about it. He really wanted to go away for the weekend. And when someone feels that strongly about something and you don’t, the answer is simple: let them plan it.

I just had one condition: I told him I didn’t want to know any details. I just wanted the glorious bliss that comes with just showing up. He was nervous — he knows I have a certain standard, regardless of budget, because inexpensive does NOT mean cheap — but he was also confident he’d find something that could satisfy both of us.

So I handed him the clipboard, voluntarily with zero conditions, and went about my life.

He really wanted to go somewhere neither of us had been yet and looked at everything — Key West, staying local, a few Caribbean options. And when he found a ferry that went directly to AND from the Bahamas with a package deal at Resorts World Bimini? He was sold!

Readers, I let him cook.

And oh, did he deliver.

But first, a snag…

The afternoon before our trip, Speed told me just enough to pack: we were taking a ferry to Bimini, the Bahamas, and the only requirement was to “bring your swimsuits and your passport.” Which, honestly, is all I needed to hear.

We were both giddy. His mom came through as dog grandma extraordinaire and took the babies. I pulled out every swimsuit I owned because my tan was not going to achieve itself. Passports? Located. Excitement level? Stratospheric.

We were ready. We were packed. We were going to the Bahamas, y’all!

And then, at about 10pm the night before we were supposed to take the ferry from Fort Lauderdale directly to Bimini...

Speed got a cancellation notification.

Did he tell me? No.

I had NO IDEA that while I was happily fantasizing about blue Bahama waters, my #besthusbandever was in full crisis management mode. Sneakily hunting down last-minute flights to Nassau, frantically booking a hotel room in the middle of one of the busiest parts of town, and somehow keeping his face completely normal around me. If you know him, you know this was a FEAT.

Why didn’t he tell me? He didn’t want to get my hopes up in case it didn’t work out. He was protecting the dream while actively rebuilding it from scratch. PAST MIDNIGHT.

This man.

The next morning, we got in the car and left for what I thought was the ferry terminal. The sun was out. The vibes were immaculate. We were heading to the Bahamas and I was already mentally horizontal on a beach somewhere.

I was happy. Speed was happy. The whole car was happy.

We merged onto I-95 heading south toward Fort Lauderdale, music playing, me probably already talking about what I was going to order on the ferry, completely relaxed, completely in my element, completely —

“So... I have to tell you something.”

I looked at him.

“The ferry was cancelled.”

I’m sorry. The ferry was WHAT?!

I will not pretend I handled it with grace. There were at least ten minutes of full Sandra meltdown. The “wait, what do you mean cancelled, what are we doing, where are we going, NASSAU?!” energy was very present and very real. He just let me have it — calm as anything, patiently waiting for me to just breeeeeeathe.

As he calmly explained our new itinerary and patiently answered every rapid fire question with confidence, something clicked. I looked at this man who had spent the last twelve hours fixing everything so I wouldn’t have to feel even one second of panic... and I decided to fully and completely surrender. To just trust him and enjoy the ride. He clearly had it handled.

I’m not gonna lie to you — it was hard. But it was also one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

And then, just like that, we were on a plane. And then we landed. And then we were in the Bahamas… and everything else melted away.

About Bimini

Bimini is not what you expect. It’s small. Like, golf-cart-as-primary-transportation small. And I say that as the highest possible compliment, because there is something deeply, spiritually correct about cruising around a Caribbean island with the wind in your hair and zero traffic to speak of. Speed drove. I sat there looking cute and pointing at things. It was perfect.

Here’s the quick download:

• Population: ~2,300

• Location: ~50 miles east of Miami

• Size: About 7 miles long and 700 feet wide — yes, really

• Made up of: North Bimini, South Bimini, and East Bimini. We stayed in North Bimini.

It’s technically the Bahamas, so yes — you need a valid passport. Don’t let that stop you. The trip from South Florida is 30 min by air, shorter than most people’s commutes.

The vibe is laid back, unhurried and deeply unbothered. It is the physical embodiment of “we’ll get there when we get there” — which, depending on where you are in life, might be exactly what the doctor ordered. It was for me.

Also, I need you to understand something. I have been to Hawaii. Croatia. Mallorca. Puerto Rico. Greece. I live in Florida. I have seen some beautiful water in my day, okay?

Out of all of them, Croatia’s coast still has my whole heart. But Bimini’s beaches are BY FAR the prettiest if you’re looking for that classic, dreamy, sandy-beach-turquoise-water situation. That color is UNREAL.

Standing on the beach staring out at it, I genuinely felt like I was inside a Microsoft screensaver. Standing in it was even more surreal.

And because the island is so tiny, you see that water from both sides as you’re golf-carting down the main road. It just keeps showing up. So gorgeous!

How To Get There

There are four ways to get to Bimini for those of us without a private yacht (for now):

1. Ferry — Balearia ferry from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. Scenic! Potentially cancelled! (Ask me how I know.)

2. Fly direct — American Airlines (AA) from Miami International Airport (MIA). About 30 minutes in the air. This is the move.

3. Seaplane — Tropic Ocean Airways. On my list for next time.

4. Cruise ship — If Bimini is a port stop on your itinerary.

How We Got There

The day we landed in Bimini was the day of the very first inaugural American Airlines direct flight from MIA to Bimini. We had literally just missed it by one day and were actually standing in the Bimini airport when that historic flight landed.

Which means if you’re reading this and planning your trip, that flight exists for you in a way it simply did not exist for us. We’re a little jealous.

Because that flight wasn’t an option when the ferry cancelled, Speed had to book us from MIA to Nassau, and then a second flight from Nassau to Bimini the next morning — which meant a hotel night in Nassau we hadn’t planned for.

Was I mad about it? Uh, no…

Speed chose the British Colonial Nassau and I need you to know it was gorgeous. I forgot I wasn’t supposed to be there. We had dinner at their bar restaurant called Woodes Rogers Tavern right on the property — good food, great live music, and since it sits right on the beach, we ended up taking a little walk and settling into chaise lounges for conversation under the stars. Much needed unplanned magic.

Our taxi driver from the airport to the hotel was so awesome that we asked for his number on the spot and had him pick us up the next morning for our flight out to Bimini.

Nassau was a detour, but a pretty great one. We felt like we were on vacation, which was the most important thing.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

If you’re flying, you’ll land at Bimini Airport in South Bimini. Here’s what you do: exit the terminal, turn left toward the parking lot, and follow the crowd. A van taxi will take you to a water taxi for about $5 per person. The water taxi to North Bimini takes less than 5 minutes and costs $3 per person. From there, a quick taxi ride gets you to your accommodation.

I know what you’re thinking. That’s a lot of steps. It sounds like a whole thing. It is not a whole thing. From exiting the airport to arriving on North Bimini is about 15-20 minutes total and it is surprisingly seamless. Just follow the crowd and trust the process.

Pro tip: The moment you step off the water taxi on North Bimini, someone will try to rent you a golf cart. Smile, decline, and keep walking. You will get a significantly better rate negotiating on your own. I’ll tell you exactly how further down. 😉

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Where We Stayed

We stayed at Resorts World Bimini and genuinely loved it. I’m typically a boutique hotel or private villa kinda girl, but this place won me over completely.

• The room: Spacious, comfortable, great balcony with a fantastic view. My one and only con: the bathroom has a glass door that’s open at the top and bottom, so if you require true privacy for your... moments of solitude... you’ll want to strategize. You’ve been warned.

• The pools: Where the resort really shines. There’s a lagoon pool with a swim-up pool bar, an adults only rooftop pool, and the Beach Club with a family pool, an adults only pool, AND beach access. This alone made it worth it.

• The service: Genuinely wonderful. Warm, above and beyond, and deeply human. One night, Speed slept through dinner so he had to hunt some down at about 9pm. Luckily, The Tides, one of the restaurants was still open and hooked him up. The lady helping him gave him flowers to give me so the meal would feel more special (and he’d stay out of trouble!). I mean. Come on.

• The lobby bar/coffee station: Makes Starbucks drinks on-site. I had the best Caramel Frappuccino I’ve had in years and I’m not even sorry about it. Such a great perk.

Next time: Now that we know the lay of the land, next time we’d love to rent a villa or vacation rental and just buy a day pass to the Beach Club. We also heard great things about Katt’s Kottages right across from Radio Beach — that’s on the list. But I’ll be honest… if Resorts World had another amazing deal, we’d happily pack a bag in two seconds flat.

Pro tip: Book direct with Resorts World for your first trip, especially if you’re planning to take the ferry. When ours cancelled, they handled everything — and offered us two extra nights at $99/night. Our weekend getaway became a 5-night vacation. Speed scored MAJOR points.

Getting Around the Island

Your options: walk, taxi, or golf cart. The resort has a free tram to Fisherman’s Village and the Beach Club. Taxis are roughly $5 per person per ride.

Golf carts are the way to explore, but negotiate. We were immediately quoted $100/day plus fees after getting out of the water taxi from the airport, which we declined. Politely.

The next day we walked to Fisherman’s Village, found a huge golf cart lot full of locals renting them out, and got ours for $60/day, cash. No fees, no fuel charges. The secret? We showed him we only had $60 in our wallet. Negotiation is an art form, friends.

I was a golf cart passenger princess for most of the trip, but one afternoon I drove it back to the resort myself and I felt like an absolute rock star…can’t you tell?!

Pro tip: The island is flat and walkable, but the Beach Club is about a 20-minute walk from the resort in the heat. We did it once and it was fine, but the free tram exists for a reason. Use it, especially mid-day. Your knees will thank you.

The Food Situation (Honest Review)

I’ll be real with you because that’s what we do here: the food was hit or miss. It was my only real con, but a notable one. Here’s the full breakdown so you can eat better than we did.

THE HITS

Beach 360 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — My absolute favorite and I’m furious we didn’t eat here until our last day. Mahi mahi sandwich, incredible fries, right next to the Beach Club with that ridiculous ocean view. Go here first.

Joe’s Conch Shack ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — A must. Conch ceviche, conch fritters, piña colada in hand. The drinks take forever because you order food and drinks at two separate registers and the bartender is not in a hurry. Island time is real, y’all.

Nate’s Bakery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — SO good. Cinnamon bread and guava & cream cheese bread. The guava one was insane and they give you a giant loaf. We shared some with our golf cart guy because he was awesome and we like to reward great customer service, even if it’s just with food.

Beach shacks on Radio Beach — Look, they probably wouldn’t pass a health inspection in Florida. But the food was tasty, the bar was right there, and the vibe was everything. Go with the flow or pack a beach picnic. Either way, you win.

The Tides (hotel) — The Valentine’s four-course special was a letdown, BUT they did hook Speed up one night after he slept the afternoon away and had to hunt down dinner. Not only was the food incredible, but they included flowers for him to give me to get him completely out of trouble. So this one’s a 50/50 and I’d try it again.

THE MISSES

Edith’s Pizza — The taxi driver recommended the fried chicken. Bless his heart. It came smothered in ketchup and tasted like grocery store frozen chicken. The views are gorgeous though, so grab a drink and enjoy those. And maybe order a pizza instead.

Hemingway’s (resort) — Burger came out room temperature. Pasta was fine but forgettable. Service was great, but I couldn’t overcome the meh. If everything else is closed though, it’s eat here or starve. You choose.

My 3 Daughters — Generous portions, but a little bland. Conch fritters were decent, just not Joe’s level. Pretty view from the dining room, though.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The most important thing I can tell you about food in Bimini is that most restaurants close by 5pm because they cater to the cruise ships. Google will lie to you and say they’re open until 7. They are not. Be in your seat by 4pm or you’re eating at the resort. We learned this the hard way. Now you don’t have to.

Next time: I’d hit up Brennen’s Grill, Stuart Conch Salad Stand, and Bimini Hideaway.

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Things To Do

We were only planning on being in Bimini from Friday to Sunday, but our trip was extended by two nights, which meant we had a lot more time. Had we known this was going to be the case, we’d have planned at least two activities with one being on the water.

The perfect set-up would’ve been: one beach day, one pool day, one boat day, one sightseeing day. As it was, this is what we ended up doing … which was fabulous and I’m not complaining.

• Pools: We lived in them. The resort’s swim-up bar pool, the rooftop pool, and the Beach Club pools were all glorious. But fair warning: on days when cruise ships docked, the Beach Club got super busy. We’d check in, assess the situation, and immediately pivot to a different pool or Radio Beach instead. Check the cruise ship schedule and you’ll be good.

• Dolphin House Museum: Do not skip this. It’s $20/person and completely worth it. The founder, Sir Ashley Saunders, is a published author and local legend who built the entire house himself over decades — covered floor to ceiling in dolphin mosaic art and found objects. He gives you a personal introduction and answers every question. It’s weird and wonderful and totally unique. We saw a few other groups while we were there but the tour flows so you never feel crowded.

• Shipwreck of the Gallant Lady: On the southernmost tip of the island, past the cemetery, down a dirt road — and worth every bump to get there. The Gallant Lady was a Belizean freighter that ran aground during Hurricane Mitch in 1997 and has been rusting dramatically against the rocks ever since. The day we went, the waves crashing against the wreck were cinematic. We stayed to watch the sunset from the jeep and it was spectacular. Add this to your list and bring your camera.

• Fisherman’s Village: Small but charming and a five minute walk from the resort. A few boutiques, an ice cream shop, a restaurant bar, and a little market for snacks. Good for a slow morning wander. You can also walk along the harbor to get some beautiful water views.

• Radio Beach: Bring $40 cash to Radio Beach for two loungers and an umbrella set up right in the sand. Worth every penny, and you’re supporting local families directly.

Next time: Swim with dolphins, food tour, feed the stingrays and sharks, jet skiing, snorkeling, and the Bimini Biological Field Station shark lab tour (1.5 hours — apparently incredible)

Taking the ferry back

We were told to get to the tram that takes you to the ship by 4pm, to check in and be ready to sail at 6pm. So that’s what we did. You’re allowed a carry-on bag and a personal item (that’s what we had), with the option to pay for additional luggage.

During check-in, we upgraded to premium seats which got us a dedicated area, a little snack situation, and enough space to actually move around like humans. And I will say — the ferry has amenities: a food and bar concession, a duty free shop, an outdoor balcony for fresh air, and charging ports.

Here’s a look inside the ferry (not my video but short & sweet).

But I’ll be real with you. As great and easy as it was, I prefer to take a flight next time. Here’s my logic:

The ferry transit takes about 2 hours plus you need to arrive at least 2 hours early for international customs (unless you want to wait in a really long line) and leave 30 minutes on the back end for domestic customs. That’s 4.5 hours total, if there are no delays.

AA’s direct flight is 30 minutes. Even with airport check-in, the math just makes sense to take the AA flight. Cost wise, it’s a wash.

Also consider that there’s only one scheduled ferry a day and they don’t sail daily. So if a ferry cancels, you have to either wait until the next one or book last minute flights. If last minute cancellations are not your thing and budget predictability matters to you (me), just book the flight from the jump and sleep easy. But if your schedule is flexible and you want to walk around a lot, then the ferry is a fun option.

The only way I’m back on the ferry is if there’s a significant discount involved. But am I glad I did it once? Absolutely. And I will do the seaplane eventually.

What To Pack

Not much. You’re going to a tiny island and will probably be rocking your swimsuit the entire time. Less is more here.

• Lightweight, colorful everything — This is not the place for neutrals. Wear the color! Be the postcard! Great brands to try: Spartina 449, Farm Rio, Diarrablu, Cup She (I love their one-piece bathing suits), and Avarra. Pro tip: hit up thrift stores or reseller markets like Poshmark and Ebay to score high-end resort wear at a fraction of the price.

• A good coverup or two — You’ll go from beach to golf cart to lunch to pool without changing…make it cute! This, this and this are beautiful and can double as dresses for lunch or a casual dinner by the water.

• A lightweight beach tote: I use a Rifle Paper Company tote bag that isn’t sold anymore but here are similar options: this, this, and this. Just make sure whatever tote you bring can fold it up so it doesn’t take much room in your luggage.

• Cash — So many things (beach umbrellas, golf cart rentals, local food shacks) are cash only or cash preferred. Bring more than you think you need and you’ll probably need a little more. There’s an ATM in the resort lobby.

• Reef-safe sunscreen — The water is too beautiful to mess with. Protect it.

• Comfortable sandals you can actually walk in — You will be on your feet more than you think. This is not the place for the cute-but-deadly pair. You can’t go wrong with Olukai, Sanuk (my fave sandal brand EVER!), Reef, and Oka-B (which are like Crocs but cuter).

• A light layer for the ferry or plane — The AC situation can be aggressive. Bring your favorite scarf, light blanket or sweater — your choice — but bring something.

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The Final Verdict

8/10. I’d go back in a heartbeat. It’s the perfect 3-4 night trip — enough time for a boat day, a beach club day, a town-and-beach day, and one full day of doing absolutely nothing and feeling zero guilt about it.

But more than the beaches — and those beaches are unreal — what I’m taking home from this trip is something I didn’t expect to need so badly:

The reminder that I don’t always have to be the one holding the plan.

Speed took care of everything. Every detail, every reservation, every midnight pivot when the ferry became a flight. He just... handled it. And I got to be present. Fully, completely, un-spreadsheet-edly present. On a golf cart. In the most impossible blue water. With my person.

There’s a version of me that would have white-knuckled the whole trip — cataloguing every hiccup, mentally rewriting the itinerary, staying one step ahead of the fun instead of actually in it. Although I try not to be, I’ve been that person.

But this time I let go. And it turns out, when you trust the right person with the clipboard... you get Bimini.

That’s the real souvenir. 💖

You just read about a trip where I surrendered the planning to Speed and it somehow became the best Valentine’s Day trip of my life. You know what made the difference? It wasn’t the hotel. It wasn’t the water — although that water was unreal. It was the moment I stopped white-knuckling the plan and actually let myself be there.

Easier said than done. I know. Which is why I made you something.

Leave This At Home is this month’s Popstar Kit — twelve printable permission slips for the woman who plans everything, controls everything, and somehow still can’t fully enjoy anything. Each permission slip covers something we've been quietly denying ourselves — the right to let the plan fall apart, to put the phone down, eat the bread, spend the money, and get in the car without knowing where you’re going.

You print them. You sign them. You mean them.

Some of them are going to make you laugh. Some of them are going to hit you somewhere you weren't expecting. One of them — and I won't tell you which one — might make you cry a little. In the good way. The way that feels like permission you've been waiting a really long time for someone to give you. Consider this me giving it to you.

And then you go live your life like the fabulous woman you already are.

It’s waiting for you in the Printables library. Not a Popstar yet? Become a Popstar and get instant access. Your first permission slip is to stop waiting.

Have you ever let someone else take the wheel — literally or figuratively — and been totally surprised by where you landed? I want to hear everything. Hit reply or leave a comment and tell me all about it! ☀️

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Loved this? Share the love! Hit the heart, restack it, or send it to the friend who needs a Bimini in her life — or just a reminder that she doesn’t always have to be the one holding the clipboard. 😉

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Hello, fabulous!

This week we’re headed to one of America’s oldest cities with cobblestone streets, haunted mansions, pirate lore, and now…millions of twinkling lights.

Back in October, we celebrated our 22nd anniversary with a long weekend in St. Augustine. We stayed in the sweetest little Airbnb right on St George Street, which meant we could wander all the historic alleyways to our heart’s delight. The city felt vibrant, walkable, and deliciously spooky in all the best ways.

But now that December has arrived, I kinda wish I were back under the palm trees, walking along the bayfront with a warm drink, watching the entire city sparkle for the Nights of Lights festival. So grab your hot cocoa and fluffiest throw - we’re heading back to St. Augustine, dreamy-holiday-edition style.

P.S. Sometimes, your email provider likes to play hide and seek with my newsletters by cutting them off. To catch all the juicy bits, read it in the browser or in the app!

This post includes affiliate links. Thank you for supporting Sandrapop! 💖

Hottie Tea Toddy

St. Augustine isn’t just beautiful - it’s the oldest continuously lived-in city in the U.S., founded by the Spanish in 1565. So when the holidays hit and the city lights up, it doesn’t just sparkle - it glows with centuries of charm. Millions of white lights drape over ancient stone walls, sway from palm trees, and shimmer across cobblestone streets like something out of a storybook. Every corner holds a secret or a love letter from another time. So of course that calls for something special and warm in your hands: a drink that feels like a hug, a little history, and a lot of holiday magic all at once.

Enter the Hottie Tea Toddy from local favorite St. Augustine Distillery: a cozy twist on the classic hot toddy that feels like a holiday exhale. It starts with steeped tea, melted honey, fresh lemon, and their Florida Straight Bourbon. Simple, warm, and just herbal enough to feel special, especially when the city’s twinkling and the Florida “cold front” has everyone suddenly reaching for sweaters.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tea bag of your choice

• 1 TBSP (¾ oz) St. Augustine Bourbon Barrel Rested Honey

• 1.5 oz Florida Straight Bourbon

• ¼ cup lemon juice

• 8 oz boiling water

DIRECTIONS

1. Boil water for your tea. As water is boiling, cover the bottom of a large mug with honey.

2. Place your tea bag in the mug and add boiling water. Cover mug, and allow to steep.

3. Uncover, add lemon juice and bourbon, and stir. Enjoy hot.

Dark & Stormy

For another fun St. Augustine-inspired sip, I have to share this one from fellow Substacker . She’s been mixing up cocktails for her Cocktail Solstice Countdown series (they are yummy!), and when I saw this recipe I immediately thought: yesssss - this belongs in a St. Augustine issue, especially with all the pirate vibes. She graciously let me include it here for you. It’s called Dark & Stormy, and it’s so good.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Dark Rum

• ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice

• 5-6 oz Ginger Beer

• Garnish: Lime Wheel

DIRECTIONS

1. Add the above ingredients in order in a highball glass with ice…

2. Gently Stir

3. Garnish

Collage is this tiny restaurant on the north end of the strip, and I found it through Google Reviews that were almost too glowing to trust. Turns out they were spot on. It was one of the most memorable meals we’ve ever had, and celebrating our anniversary there made it even sweeter.

The restaurant is small - about 15 tables - with humble décor that feels intimate and romantic, and the service was incredible. Every dish was stunning, delicious, and full of little unexpected touches that made it feel like we’d stumbled onto a secret. It’s not one of the places blasted on all the “Top 5” lists , which made the discovery of this hidden gem even better because if more people knew about it, it would be.

We started with Escargot and the Scallop Saltimbocca (scallops wrapped in prosciutto and sage). They brought complimentary grilled garlic, a fun change from bread and butter, then Speed had the Collage Surf and Turf (tenderloin + Maine lobster tail) while I had the Homemade Lobster Ravioli. We finished with our go-to crème brûlée (and forgot the photo, of course!). Total mouthgasm worthy and one of our Top 5 meals EVER. It was a magical little spot! We left full, happy, and a little bit proud we found it.

Talk about colorful! The historic Casa Monica Resort & Spa feels like you stepped into a Spanish-Moorish dream. Arched doorways, velvet textures, and just enough moody glam to make you believe you own 14 caftans and a crystal decanter set. Next time we’re in St. Augustine, we’re definitely staying here. We did have lunch at the hotel restaurant, Cordova Coastal Chophouse, and the ambiance was incredible.

Since it’s that most wonderful time of the year, I have to mention the annual St. Augustine Night of Lights! It’s an annual event during the holidays when the city’s historic downtown is dressed up in millions of tiny white lights draped over the old buildings, palm trees, and downtown streets from Nov 15, 2025 through Jan 11, 2026.

I love the idea of strolling the historic streets while everything glows with millions of tiny white lights, grabbing something warm to drink, and just wandering with no agenda. St. George Street, the Plaza, and the Bayfront are built for that kind of night. Here’s a great Night of Lights drone tour for your viewing pleasure:

🗓 St. Augustine Food + Wine Festival | May 6–10, 2026

Mark your calendars, friends, because this is one of those “okay, we’re definitely going” events. St. Augustine’s wine scene blends historic charm with modern flavor: think cozy tasting rooms, local wines with Floridian flair, and plenty of spots where you can sip a glass al fresco while watching the lights dance over the cobblestone streets.

If you love good food, good wine, and the idea of sipping something fabulous while wandering around a beautiful historic setting (because I totally do), put this on your list. I’ve been eyeing this festival for the tastings alone, and it’s officially on my must-do lineup. Sharing it here in case you want to plan a little trip too. This feels like the kind of weekend you come home from happy and well-fed.

More info → staugustinefoodandwinefestival.com

Ghost Tour

You can’t visit St. Augustine without doing at least one ghost tour. It’s practically a rite of passage. I’ll admit, I’m not really into spooky stuff either, but we found a low-scare, high-fun option that totally worked for us: the Riding with the Ghosts a Golf Cart Ghost Tour in St Augustine at 9:15 pm.

It was the perfect length (just long enough to get into it, not long enough to regret it), the guide was funny and full of historical gems, and seeing the city lit up at night made the whole experience feel more magical than macabre. A great way to end the day…and zero jump scares.

Other attractions we enjoyed

• Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth

• Medieval Torture Museum (this was gross so don’t take little ones)

• Walk down Martin Luther King Avenue (Lincolnville)

• Villa Zorayda Museum

To me, St. Augustine style feels like soft gothic meets coastal sparkle - equal parts historic charm and seaside ease. Think black florals, flowy dresses, glowy skin lit by lantern light, and metallic flats that can handle cobblestones. It’s one of those cities where you might pass a centuries-old mansion on your way to a cute beach café, so your outfit kind of needs to live in both worlds: romantic, a little mysterious, but still breezy and walkable.

Here’s my own little collection of holiday sparkle…pieces I love that totally channel the St. Augustine vibe.

1. Replica “By the Fireplace”

2. Mac Duggal High-Neck Gathered Tulle Midi-Dress

3. Bobbies Tara Low-heeled Sandals

4. Zara Beaded Handbag

5. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk

6. Lucite Petal Leverback Earring - Black Beetle

Thanks for joining me on this dreamy holiday edition of Daytrips! This was so much fun to put together. I may not be in St. Augustine right now, but writing this helped me relive the magic from my anniversary trip AND from the kind of December I want to create: slow, sparkly, and full of moments that feel like a Hallmark movie.

If you enjoyed this little getaway, give it a like, leave a comment, or send it to a friend who needs a cozy escape.

See you next time under the twinkle lights!

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💌 From Sandra’s Desk

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Let’s Discuss

Been to St. Augustine? Or have a holiday town that lives rent-free in your heart? I’m always looking for dreamy destinations to feature. Tell me in the comments or reply to this note. I read every single one. 💖

It was my #besthusbandever, aka Speed, who kept pushing for a vow renewal—he’s had this dream for years of seeing me as a bride, walking down the aisle in a beautiful white dress. Last year in October, we finally did it. Although a month late, here’s a look back to our amazing day, pro tips included. Plus we have to share our 8 million photos with SOMEONE. We hope you love it as much as we did! 💖

P.S. This one’s a bit too long for email, so be sure to open it in the app or your web browser to catch all the details!

Why Now?

Back in 2003, we were in the middle of a military move, driving across the country with barely two nickels to rub together, and thought, "You know what? Let’s make this trip REALLY memorable." So, we rolled into Las Vegas with nothing but a couple of suitcases, a dream, and our first Pomeranian baby, Cisco, riding shotgun.

Already engaged, we figured, “Why not get married here and knock out the base housing paperwork while we’re at it?” Makes total sense, right!?

We woke up early, got our marriage license in hand, and decided on the most romantic option: the drive-thru window at "A Special Memory Wedding Chapel." Because who has time to get out of the car when you’ve got a road trip to finish? Cisco even served as our witness in the backseat.

We handed over $50, said “I do,” and sped off to California like we were checking off a grocery list. In less than 24 hours, we went from engaged to married—and it was the wildest, quickest wedding you’ve ever heard of!

To be fair, we DID plan for a big wedding a year later, but—surprise! Max was on the way, and that plan quickly turned into “we’ll do it later.” Of course, “later” turned into years of military moves, raising a baby, helping out family, buying homes, and managing life. You know, all those little distractions that make time fly. Totally understandable, but...

Then my brother passed away last year and everything changed. It hit us like a ton of bricks: life doesn’t wait. That realization was both heart-wrenching and eye-opening. I’d always imagined my two brothers by my side, walking me down the aisle, but we’d let too much time pass, and that once-in-a-lifetime moment was gone.

That’s when we knew—no more waiting. We’d already had a trip to Santorini, Greece in the works, so we hired a wedding planner, threw our wallet at her, and somehow pulled off the most epic, gorgeous day of our lives in just under two months. The views were unreal, the day was pure magic, and every little detail came together perfectly. It was everything we’d dreamed of and more!

The full story — the photos, the vows, the moment Speed saw me for the first time — is exclusively for my Headliners. You show up for me in the biggest way, so this one's just for you. 💍

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🥳 Happy Wednesday!

This week, we’re pretending we’ve jetted off to Paris—oui oui, mon ami! Inspired by my visits to the City of Light with friends and family, as well as the upcoming Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, I’m bringing some of that Parisian magic right here to Sandrapop!

Grab your comfiest PJs, let your hair down (or throw it up in a messy bun—no judgment here!), and let’s get ready to add a splash of French fancy to our chill night in. Who’s ready for some cheeky fun à la Parisienne? 🇫🇷

Can you think of a more classic Parisian cocktail than the French 75? Neither can I! It's like a party in a glass that dates back to World War I, and trust me, it packs a punch as powerful as its namesake, the fierce French 75mm field gun.

A perfect mix of sophistication and fun, it blends gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar, and champagne in a sparkling glass of joy that might just have you saying, “Oh là là!” Zest up your evening with this chic little number toast to fabulous nights with the recipe below.

RECIPE:

• 1.5 oz gin

• 1 tsp sugar or simple syrup

• Juice of half a lemon

Shake over ice and strain into a glass filled with cracked ice. Top with Champagne… à votre santé! 🥂

If you love oysters and caviar, then you’re in luck! In Paris, my girlfriends and I made last-minute reservations at La Maison du Caviar, a surprisingly sophisticated spot in the 8th arrondissement right off the Champs-Élysées. This cozy little place is a caviar lover’s dream, specializing in all sorts of mouthgasmic yumminess.

Of course, is it even a ladies brunch without champagne!? We were lucky—it was early afternoon and we had the whole place to ourselves. In the busy heart of Paris, that’s practically unheard of! We initially debated between La Maison du Caviar and Caviar Kaspia, another restaurant specializing in caviar, which I plan to hit up on my next trip to Paris with the hubs (we’re only 2 hours away by train—perfect for a romantic weekend getaway!).

Bonus: If oysters and caviar don't tickle your fancy (totally get it!), you might want to dive into David Lebovitz's Newsletter instead. I've been a fan of his blog for ages, so it was a cool surprise to see him thriving here too! As a professional cook and pastry chef based in Paris, he shares not only mouthwatering recipes but also snippets of his everyday life in the City of Light. Check it out for a taste of Parisian culinary adventures!

Who else has daydreamed about ditching it all and living it up in a Parisian pied-à-terre?! If I ever make that bold leap to live out my Paris dreams, let's be real, my pad wouldn’t hold a candle to the swanky digs of Marie Daage, the queen of tabletop design. Her decor is drool-worthy, but it's her unstoppable energy and passion for her craft that really steal the show. She’s so spirited and enthusiastic, it makes you want to dive into her world—or at least steal a few design tips! Here’s to hoping I’ve got half her verve and flair when I’m rocking her age. What do you think—shall we start hunting for our fantasy French flats?

Bonus: Anna Kloots, author of “My Own Magic” and an American living in Paris, has the most feminine, gorgeous Parisian apartment I’ve ever seen!

• Guilty pleasure “Emily in Paris” will be back for Season 4! Do you think Emily and Gabriel will get together after last season’s mega cliffhanger!?

• Paris Fashion Week is coming up soon, from 18-23 June 2024! Are you into that sort of thing? I would love to go one day with my friends Shammara and Gia because they’re into fashion and they would make it super fun! If you’ve gone, did you like it?

• Only 72 days until the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics! Which sports are on your must-watch list? I'm all about Swimming, Diving, and Gymnastics, but this year my husband snagged four tickets to the Women’s Football semi-final in July. Can't wait to see the action live! What about you? What events are you looking forward to?

• For you Swiftie fans (yes, midlifers love Taylor too!), you already know that Taylor Swift was in Paris on her Eras Tour. She stayed at Hôtel De Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel that cost her $21,000 a night. Nbd (gulp). What would you do with $21,000?!

• You love chess? I know nothing about chess but apparently Paris is hosting the Live Final Of the 2024 Speed Chess Championship. There’s a prize pool of $175,000 - wow. Maybe I should learn…

Oh, Parisian women and their fashion—how do they do it? Stroll through any Paris street, and you'll swear the sidewalks are runways. Seriously, they could throw on an old trench coat, wrap a ratty scarf around their neck, and somehow look like they stepped out of a luxury fashion ad. It’s not just the clothes but their cool, breezy confidence. From effortlessly chic ballet flats to that perfectly tousled hair, they always look stunning. Here are some fashionable French midlife women that are slaying the game.

I have a girl crush on Eva Green, ever since I saw her in “300: Rise of an Empire”.

Marion Cotillard is just so gorgeous and looks good in anything. If you haven’t seen “A Good Year”, watch it this weekend. So good! She’s also a staunch environmentalist and a spokesperson for Greenpeace.

Assa Traore is an activist against police violence ever since her little brother was found dead in a Paris police station in 2016. She’s organized demonstrations of up to 80,000 and was declared Time Magazine’s Guardian of the Year in 2020.

Taking inspiration from these women, here are some of the things that I love which make me think of Parisian style:

1. Nars Lipstick Red Lizard

2. Rouje Rahima Dreass Short Printed Stretch Linen Dress

3. KJ Beckett Dents Paris Fingerless Leather Driving Gloves - Yellow

4. Carre de Paris EPERON D'OR HERMES SCARF BY HENRI D'ORIGNY 90 CM SILK TWILL RED COL.

5. L’Ecurie Paris Barbara - Material Acetate Black

6. Carel Paris NERI Yellow upcycled naplack leather slingback pumps

ICYMI:

Big hugs and a heartfelt thank you for reading! I’m pumped to keep bringing you all the fun and creativity straight to your inbox each week. Putting these newsletters together is so much fun, and I hope you’re loving them just as much.

Don’t forget to show some love—like the post, leave your thoughts in the comments, and share this newsletter with your nearest and dearest. Your support is what helps Sandrapop flourish, inviting more awesome folks like you into our cozy Sandrapop family. 💕

Thanks again for spending time with me! Wishing you a stellar week ahead,

Sandra

P.S. Your feedback lights up my day! Drop me a line by replying to this email with your ideas, feedback, or anything you’d love to see next. Let's keep the magic alive!

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Hello, fabulous!

Today's we’re enjoying the glitz and glam of Palm Beach, inspired by my serious addiction to Kristen Wiig's “Palm Royale” on AppleTV (a total must-watch!) and my memories of growing up Lake Worth, where I was practically neighbors with the elite on "Billionaire Row."

But before you start picturing me sipping champagne in a penthouse suite, let me burst that bubble - my wallet was more motel coupon than mansion key. Sad, I know. Nonetheless, those gorg bougainvillea-draped mansions along the turquoise beach always left me in awe. To this day, anytime I visit home, I take a drive down A1A and soak in the all Palm Beach vibes.

So let your hair down, put on your comfiest pajamas, and let’s dive right into the lavish fun!

🎉 Come on in!

Consider this your royal welcome. Here's what's in store for you: a welcome cocktail fit for the queen you are, a mouthwatering appetizer that's as delicious as it is aesthetic, and some home inspo tailored to the theme of the week. So, let's raise a glass and indulge in the royal treatment!

When in Palm Beach, where the social scene is hotter than the sand in July, going for a light, sophisticated cocktail isn't just savvy—it's practically a survival tactic. Find recipes for light and refreshing cocktails you can sip while you're lounging by the pool that will keep you cool, classy and a little bit sassy in “The Cocktail Chameleon” by Mark Addison. My pick? The Palm Beach Manhattan, obvi. And if you're itching for a cocktail fix while waiting for this gem of a book to arrive, you can quench your thirst with Mark’s collection right here.

For after dinner drinks, try The Grasshopper, the drink Maxine (Kristin Wigg’s character in “Palm Royale”) can’t be seen without. Originally created by Tujague’s Restaurant in 1918, it has crème de Cacao, crème de Menthe and heavy whipping cream…dessert in a cup!

Are you even a real Palm Beach hostess if you haven't whipped up these yummy little Palm Beach Cheese Puffs? As one of the most quintessential Palm Beach appetizers, this tasty treat never fails to impress. Packed with parmesan cheese, the recipe is straightforward... but oh-so-delicious! Feel free to mix it up by adding herbs, jalapeños, or chives for a personalized touch. Get creative and explore to find your perfect flavor combination!

🌟 Bonus: You can find a recipe card for my version of these little bites of heaven in the Downloads section.

Ok, real talk. If I hit the jackpot, this is the mansion I'd buy in two seconds flat. It's got everything you'd expect from a Palm Beach palace: Mediterranean flair, bougainvillea and blue-and-white decor galore, endless gallery hallways, a dreamy outdoor courtyard, top-tier opulence, lush tropical landscaping, waterfront perks, and seamless indoor-outdoor vibes. Honestly, the only thing that’s missing is ME.

Here are two beautiful coffee table books in my library that I turn to anytime I need some “Billionaire Row” decor inspo!

Bonus tour: Check out Aerin Lauder’s ridiculously beautiful Palm Beach home here.

👩🏻‍🤝‍👩🏿👩🏽‍🤝‍👩🏼 It’s girl talk time!

We’re going to shoot the breeze while we kick back and get comfy. Here's what you can expect: juicy news, a roundup of my favorite finds and wishlist items, and a fun poll to help me get to know you better - all tied to the theme of the week. So grab a blanket and let’s get talking!

You may be disappointed to find out that “Palm Royale” wasn’t actually filmed in Palm Beach. It was mostly filmed in California, but they did a damn good job getting the details just right, so I was personally cool with it. Want to learn more about how they did it? Read about it here in Conde Nast Traveler.

FUN FACT: The creator of “Palm Royale”, Abe Sylvia, was inspired by famed social photographer, Slim Aarons. I’ve been itching to get a few books about his photography for years, like this one and this one.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Bobbi Brown recently moved to the Palm Beach area and opened up a Jones Beauty store in North East Palm Beach. Seems like everyone is moving to Florida these days! Read about it here in Palm Beach Illustrated. If you’re a fan like me, you may also want to check out her Substack, where she reveals all her lifestyle and beauty secrets: .

FUN FACT: I really want to try the Jones Beauty Miracle Balm but can’t decide on which color. When the brand first launched, I ordered a ton of products but ended up getting a refund due to extended shipping delays. Customer service was great, tho, so maybe I’m ready to try again? Have you tried any of her products? What’s the scoop??

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made a grand appearance in Wellington for a polo charity event, all while juggling their Netflix show on the world of polo. And where did they rest their royal heads? None other than the luxurious Four Seasons Palm Beach. What a life. Seriously, can I be a princess please!? Despite facing their fair share of challenges, they've emerged stronger than ever and I love it. They’re super cute together and I’m here for all the goodness that flows their way. Good for them!

Word on the street is that the Palm Beach look is now the preferred anti-quiet luxury aesthetic. If so, you can score major style cred with any of these Farm Rio dresses. Not quite budget for us non-socialites, but remember, that’s not what Palm Beach is all about. Plus, a dress is, like, a WHOLE outfit.

You can’t rock a Palm Beach fashion vibe without the right accessories. Here are some I’m loving right now. My heart is telling me yes, but my wallet… my wallet is telling me noooooooooo… 😭

One last thing: Check out this essay about the Palm Beach Bitch by from the . She says, “Beachy, bitchy but surprisingly wholesome, the Palm Beach Bitch employs the very best of Coastal Grandmother and Euro Summer vibes, but with an upscale Floridian flair.” Bulls-eye.

ICYMI:

💖 Before you go…

A big hug and thank you for reading! I promise to continue bringing more fun and inspo to your inbox each week. Tbh, these newsletters are hella fun to put together so I hope you are enjoying them as much as I am.

Also, please don't forget to like the post, leave a comment, and share the newsletter with the people you love. This will help Sandrapop grow so we can welcome more fantastic humans like you to Sandrapop. 💕

Thanks again for hanging out with me! I hope you have a kickass week! 💖

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Let’s Discuss:

What else would you like to see in this travel series?