Staycation

“We travel for romance, we travel for architecture, and we travel to be lost.” – Ray Bradbury

A change of scenery did wonders for my mental health. As we navigate this pandemic, it is hard to acknowledge the damper it put on our ability to travel the world and explore. The restrictions it put on indulging in tasting fresh food, exploring new surroundings, and enjoying the company of our loved ones in an exotic area is frustrating. 

Over the last few months, the only thing many of us have explored is every corner of our houses- including our crowded storage closets, which I have cleaned out 100 times since March. 

A staycation at AC Charlotte City Center was what my husband and I needed in our life. It made us feel excited and refreshed. In the era of social distancing and forced isolation, new scenery, fresh air, and delicious food and drinks were vital.

Beautiful Photo by Brandon Grate

Beautiful Photo by Brandon Grate

A staycation doesn't have to be far from home. During our visit to the AC Hotel Uptown, we indulge in the delicious menu of Nuvole Rooftop Twenty Two, a chic rooftop lounge offering inventive New American fare, house cocktails & sweeping city views. Between fresh lobster rolls, the warm castelveltrano olives, Jamaican jerk chicken tacos, and the delicious handcrafted top-shelf cocktails- for a couple of hours, we forgot about all the chaos in the world. We just truly enjoyed each other's company amongst the beautiful Queen City skyline. 

For those that are nervous about venturing into the world during the pandemic, I loved the stringent cleaning and social distancing standards, and of course, we wore our mask when we weren't stuffing our faces. 

Protect your mental health. I know we have to be careful and social distance, but humans are not designed to exist in complete isolation. We need each other now more than ever. For my couples, working from home, raising kids at home, having spa dates at home, and spending countless hours under the same roof, do not forget to date your spouse even during quarantine. It's hard, but find creative ways to connect. Find ways to keep your relationship fun and fresh. 

Beautiful Photo by Brandon Grate