Kristen

  • Post-Travel Skincare for When You’re Tired and Just Can’t

    While you’ve been busy traveling, relaxing, and having fun during this vacation season, your skin has faced a bit of a tough time. Exposure to different climates, time zones, pollution, sun, and flights can all wreak havoc on your complexion. Here are some super easy post-travel skincare tips for the ultimate lazy gal (or guy), so you can keep that vacation glow long after you’ve unpacked: 

    ALT Image: Collage of three images: a woman exfoliating, a jar of moisturizer, and bottles of water, representing a post-travel skincare routine for hydration and nourishment.

    1. Rehydrate from the Inside Out

    Long flights, climate changes, and the stress of busy schedules can leave your skin feeling dry and dehydrated. If you’re feeling lazy, do these to hydrate and revive your complexion:

    Drink Water: Start by drinking plenty of water to replenish lost moisture. Aim for at least eight glasses every day.

    Hydrating Foods: Add foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens to your meals. These are high in water content and can help boost your skin’s hydration levels.

    Hydrating Mist: Keep a hydrating facial mist handy to refresh your skin throughout the day. Look for mists with rose water, aloe vera, or hyaluronic acid.

    2. Give Your Skin a Deep Clean

    After a trip, your skin likely has buildup from sunscreen, makeup, sweat, and pollution. A deep cleanse is essential to reset your skin so get up and do it!:

    Double Cleanse: Do a first cleanse to dissolve makeup and sunscreen, then cleanse again to remove any remaining impurities.

    Exfoliate: This is important to reveal fresh, radiant skin and to ensure your skincare products penetrate effectively. Use a mild exfoliant to slough off dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. If you don’t have any exfoliant, use a clay mask. No clay mask either? Gently massage your face with a damp washcloth and cream cleanser. 

    3. Replenish Moisture 

    Your skin may need some extra moisture after the drying effects of travel. Proper moisturizing will work wonders so if you manage to cleanse, take the extra minute and apply some hydration:

    Hydrating Serum: After cleansing and exfoliating, apply a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These ingredients attract moisture to your skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.

    Nourishing Moisturizer: Lock in moisture with a rich, nourishing moisturizer. Look for one that contains ceramides, peptides, or natural oils to strengthen your skin barrier and protect against environmental stressors.

    4. Focus on Brightening

    Travel can leave your skin looking dull and uneven. Bring back your glow with a brightening treatment. If you really can’t with this step, skip it and do it tomorrow. But remember to sneak it in before moisturizing!

    Vitamin C: A vitamin C serum can brighten your complexion and reduce any dark spots or pigmentation caused by sun exposure.

    Eye Cream: Remember to treat your eyes. The delicate skin around your eyes can show fatigue after a trip. Use an eye cream with caffeine or peptides to reduce puffiness and dark circles.

    5. Protect Your Skin Moving Forward

    Once your skin is back on track, it’s important to protect it from future damage:

    Sunscreen: A must, even after your trip. Apply sunscreen with at least an SPF 30 daily to protect your skin from UV damage and prevent premature aging.

    Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your skin looking fresh and radiant.

    Keeping your post-travel skincare routine simple and effective will help maintain your skin’s health and glow. By rehydrating, cleansing, and nourishing your skin, you’ll be able to undo the effects of travel and keep that radiant glow long after your vacation ends. So go ahead, travel beautifully, and know you can revive your skin when you return home. 

    But, if you really just can’t, feel free to book a facial with me 😉

  • Laniwai- A Disney Spa at Aulani: A Review

    This summer flew by, but one experience truly stood out: Laniwai- A Disney Spa at the Aulani Resort in Oahu. My family and I finally experienced Oahu Disney style, joined by seven of my closest friends and their families—25 people total (crazy, right?). It was an unforgettable trip, the kind my kids will talk about for years. Especially since we likely won’t be making a return visit anytime soon!

    Laniwai A Disney Spa sign at the Aulani Resort, displayed next to artwork

    The resort was amazing (obviously), but I’ll be honest- I’m not a die-hard Disney fanatic. I enjoy and appreciate the magic, but my life definitely does not revolve around Disney. That said, a few of my clients, both avid travelers and spa-goers, convinced me that the Laniwai Spa at Aulani is a must-visit, claiming it’s the best spa they’ve ever been to. Even though Aulani had already worked its Disney magic on my wallet (poof, money is gone!) I took their advice—and had no regrets.

    I booked my appointment two weeks before our stay and was pleasantly surprised to find availability on my preferred date. Their booking system was easy, and no deposit was required. I decided on the Wai Lomilomi-Pineapple Whip, a full-body exfoliation, and a massage. This seemed perfect for pampering my skin and muscles after days of pool and ocean adventures (tough life, I know).

    Hallway leading to the entrance of Laniwai featuring relaxing decor and ambient lighting.
    The gorgeous hallway leading to the spa. The spa entrance is on the left.

    First Impressions: Aulani Magic

    Laniwai Spa is tucked away in the Waianae Tower, a part of the resort I hadn’t explored yet since we were staying in the Ewa Tower on the opposite side. The soothing atmosphere immediately struck me as I stepped inside. The soft lighting and beautiful hardwood floors were gorgeous and, as a wannabe interior designer, I couldn’t help but grin from ear to ear. And this was just the hallway leading to the spa—I hadn’t even reached the main event yet!

    The reception area was equally beautiful and thoughtfully designed. The staff was attentive, guiding me to another team member who was holding a bowl filled with stones, each inscribed with a Hawaiian word. I was told to pick one, and I chose “pono”, which means “balance.” She explained that this word would be my focus during my time at the spa. I was then led through a dimly lit hallway to a small pool, where I was instructed to close my eyes, focus on my word, and gently place the stone in the water. This unique ritual truly set the tone for my experience, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the moment (which is why I didn’t take many pictures—sorry!)

    Hallway illuminated with a calming blue light, creating a serene atmosphere.
    Moody blue
    Stone pool at the Laniwai Spa at Aulani Disney Resort, featuring a natural wood wall panel and tranquil atmosphere.
    The stone pool

    Next, I was shown the locker room, restroom, sauna, and steam room—all impeccably clean and well-stocked. My only minor complaint was the lack of hair ties or headbands, as I forgot to bring something to hold my hair back. It did not take away from the experience, but it’s worth noting for future spa-goers.

    The Kula Wai: An Outdoor Hydrotherapy Garden

    Since arriving just over an hour before my appointment, there was plenty of time to enjoy all the amenities. I quickly changed and headed straight to Laniwai’s outdoor hydrotherapy garden- this feature was the unique selling point for me and it was everything I dreamed it would be. The garden is an oasis complete with soaking pools, rainfall showers, and a hot tub with massaging jets. There were two soaking pools each with different temperatures (hot and hotter) and I relaxed in both. Next to the pools, a small waterfall fountain added to the mesmerizing backdrop, but it didn’t distract me from trying everything this place had to offer.

    Lush, green foliage and walkway at Laniwai Spa at Aulani Disney Resort.
    The reflexology path is on the left of this walkway

    Taking the Plunge

    After the soaking pools, it was time for the cold plunge. As a first-time cold plunger, and hater of all things chilly, I appreciated the advice from a team member: plunge in quickly, get out, and then immediately dunk yourself in the warm jet spa. The cold plunge was surprisingly refreshing, but I don’t think I’ll need to do that ever again.

    Next up were the six rain-style showers. Since time was ticking and others were also using the showers, I couldn’t try them all, but I got the gist of it. 

    Then I walked on the reflexology path, designed to massage your feet, but I found it a little painful. To help soothe my minor aches, I decided it was time for a snack so I went to the lounge area

    Lounge at Laniwai Spa, Aulani Disney Resort, with lounge chairs, white privacy curtains, and a view of a serene fountain
    Lounge time

    Sustenance

    I walked into the bright & breezy lounge area where a snack table awaited with oatmeal raisin cookies (the chef’s specialty), coconut macarons, muffins, hot water, and an assortment of tea. There was also a mini fridge with bottled water. Everything was delicious-even the oatmeal raisin cookies!

    The snack table in the lounge area of Laniwai Spa at Aulani Disney resort

    The Treatment: 80 Minutes of Hawaiian Heaven

    After stuffing my face in the lounge, I waited for my therapist in the quiet room. The room had a row of massage chairs and I was lucky to have it all to myself. I settled into one, played around with the settings, and enjoyed my chair massage in silence.  

    My therapist greeted me in the quiet room and escorted me to the treatment room, which was as clean and gorgeous as expected. My treatment was the Wai Lomilomi-Pineapple Whip, a pineapple exfoliation followed by Laniwai’s signature Lomilomi massage. First up was the all-over body scrub which had the most intoxicating pineapple scent. Afterward, my therapist stepped out while I rinsed off the scrub in the shower, leaving my skin feeling incredibly smooth. Then came the Lomilomi- the most unique, deeply relaxing, and invigorating massage I’ve ever had. She checked in regularly to make sure the pressure was ok and that I was comfortable during the entire experience. My only complaint was that my 80 minutes would eventually have to end.

    Gift of bath salts from Spa Laniwai at Disney's Aulani Resort

    Final Thoughts: A Must For Spa Lovers

    When it was time to pay, I realized I had forgotten my wallet (fail), but the team member was accommodating and charged it to my hotel room (phew!). Then I was given a surprise treat- a complimentary sample pouch of bath salts labeled “Pono (balance),” my focus word of the day. This was a thoughtful touch, serving as a reminder to keep this intention in mind for the rest of the trip.

    Laniwai- A Disney Spa at Aulani  was an unforgettable experience and I left feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to enjoy the rest of my stay. If you’re not staying at the Aulani resort, you can still book a treatment. My booking confirmation email states, “If you are not staying overnight at the Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, four (4) hours of self-parking is included when you spend $50 or more at Laniwai.” That is plenty of time to enjoy the spa. 

    For those seeking a break from the excitement of Aulani (or parenting), Spa Laniwai provides the perfect balance of tranquility and luxury. It’s a must-visit for anyone needing to unwind and a beautiful way to immerse yourself in the spirit of aloha.

  • Waxing for Travel: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Trip

    Whether you’re beach-bound, exploring a new city, or going on an outdoorsy adventure, feeling confident & comfortable in your skin is key to a great trip. Stay smooth for up to 4 weeks, and save grooming time by scheduling an appointment and waxing before you travel.

    If you’re new to waxing, book a trial wax a few months before your trip to see how your skin reacts. This allows us to address issues like redness or bumps and gauge recovery time. Bonus, your next wax will be easier since the hair will grow in thinner & slower. Ensure at least 4 weeks of growth, or about a quarter-inch in length (think the width of your pinky finger), before your next session.

    Laptop resting on a bed, open to longweekendskin.com, with the page open for scheduling waxing for travel
    Remember to book your appointment!

    The Ideal Waxing Timeline: Plan Ahead 

    Timing is everything when it comes to waxing before travel, especially if you want to ensure your skin is at its best during your trip. Here’s a general guideline to help you schedule your appointment:

    2-3 Days Before Departure: The Sweet Spot

     – The best time to get waxed before a trip is 2-3 days before departure. This gives your skin time to recover. By the time you’re ready to travel, any potential discomfort will have subsided.

    **Remember: avoid using shared swimming facilities after getting waxed. Open pores make you more susceptible to infections, so it’s best to wait at least 24 hours before hopping into pools, hot tubs, and the like. So again, PLAN AHEAD!

    1 Week Before Departure: For Sensitive Skin

     – If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation, schedule your appointment about a week before your trip. This gives your skin extra time to heal so you’re not dealing with any lingering redness when you’re on the go.

    The Day Before: For Last-Minute Planners

      – If you can score a last-minute appointment the day before your trip, be mindful that your skin may be more sensitive, so pack a soothing post-waxing cream or aloe vera gel to calm any irritation. Avoid shared swimming facilities on the day of your wax and the day after to prevent infection. 

    Prep Your Skin

    To ensure the best results from your waxing session, prepare your skin in advance. Before your appointment:

     – Moisturize. Keep your skin hydrated in the days leading up to your wax, but do not apply heavy lotions or oils on the day of your appointment.

    – Gently exfoliate your skin 24-48 hours before your appointment to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs.

    – Avoid sun exposure or tanning at least 24 hours before your waxing session, as sunburned skin can be more sensitive. 

    Post-Wax Care: Keeping Your Skin Smooth During Your Trip

    After your wax, it’s crucial to care for your skin properly. Here’s what to do:

    – Stay Cool: Avoid hot baths & showers, saunas, and direct sun exposure for at least 24 hours after waxing to prevent irritation and heat-induced inflammation.

    – No sweating: Skip the gym, exercise, or anything else that makes you sweat. Excessive sweating can raise the risk of infection or irritation after waxing when pores are open.

    – Pack Smart: Bring along travel-sized post-waxing products, such as soothing creams, aloe vera gel, or Neosporin to help with healing.

    – Exfoliate Gently: Wait a few days after your wax, but continue to exfoliate every few days while traveling to prevent ingrown hairs, especially if you’re in a warm, humid climate.

    Planning and scheduling a wax before travel is easy. Follow these tips to keep your skin smooth and ready for any adventure. So go ahead, book that appointment, and travel beautifully!

  • Sip Your Way to Radiant Skin

    Nothing is better than kicking back, relaxing, and treating yourself to well-deserved self-care.  As you unwind, why not enjoy some drinks that help your skin glow and enhance your natural radiance? Hydration is key to maintaining that radiant complexion, and with the right drinks, you can nourish your skin from the inside out. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying a quiet morning on the patio, or just savoring some downtime, these drinks will help you achieve that coveted glow and make your skin feel as rejuvenated as you do.

    A refreshing green tea pomegranate drink for glowing skin served in a glass on a wooden table.
    •  

    Green Tea Pomegranate Punch

    Green tea is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, while pomegranate juice is packed with vitamins that promote healthy skin.

    Ingredients:

    – 1 cup brewed green tea, cooled
    – ½ cup pomegranate juice
    – 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
    – 1 lemon, juiced
    – Fresh pomegranate seeds for garnish
    – Mint leaves for garnish
    – Ice cubes
     
    Instructions:
    1. In a glass, mix the green tea, pomegranate juice, lemon juice, and honey.
    2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
    3. Stir well and garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and mint leaves.

    Serves: 2

    1. Cucumber Mint Refresher

    Cucumber is hydrating and rich in silica, which is great for skin health, while mint helps with digestion and gives a refreshing flavor.

    Ingredients:

    – ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
    – 10 fresh mint leaves
    – 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    – 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
    – 8 oz. sparkling water
    – Ice cubes
     
    Instructions:
    1. Muddle cucumber slices and mint leaves in a glass.
    2. Add lemon juice and honey, then stir well.
    3. Fill the glass with ice and top with sparkling water.
    4. Garnish with a cucumber slice and a sprig of mint.

    Serves: 1

    A cool cucumber mint drink for glowing skin served in a glass, garnished with fresh mint leaves and cucumber slices
    A nourishing, vibrant tropical watermelon cooler skin drink served in a glass, infused with watermelon and mint leaves
    1. Tropical Watermelon Cooler

    Watermelon is loaded with vitamin C, essential for collagen production, while coconut water hydrates.

    Ingredients:

    – 12 mint leaves
    – ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
    – 1 lime, juiced
    – ½ cup coconut water
    – ½ cup watermelon juice
    – ½ cup sparkling water
    – Small scoop of ice
     

    Instructions:

    1. Prepare 2 pint-size glasses with ice. 
    2. Muddle the 12 mint leaves, cucumbers, and ice in a large metal shaker.
    3. Add the lime juice, coconut water, and watermelon juice.
    4. Cover tightly and shake for 30 seconds. 
    5. Strain into prepared glasses and top each glass with sparkling water.  
    Serves: 2

    Enjoy these healthy delights and feel great about every sip. Here’s to making every day feel like a long weekend! Cheers!

  • New to Santa Clara? Another Guide for Newcomers

    Hello, newbie, and welcome to Santa Clara, California! Since growing up nearby in San Jose, I’ve been able to enjoy Santa Clara my whole life. Now that I’ve been working for several years at this adorable location on Franklin Street, I’ve learned there’s so much more to Santa Clara than Great America, Mercado, and Levi’s Stadium. Here are some of my faves:

    A mural of Santa Clara in big letters with a picture of Mission Santa Clara de Asís

    Eats:

    DONUTS: STAN’S DONUT SHOP

    2628 Homestead Road

    Cash only! If glazed donuts are your favorite, get there sooner rather than later because they do sell out. Don’t worry though, the other donut flavors are delicious too!

     

    FILIPINO: TOPPINGS TREE

    1171 Homestead Road #150

    My go-to when I’m craving Filipino food. Dad’s cooking is still the best, but this is a close second!

     

    PIZZA: SENIORES PIZZA

    940 Monroe Street

    The best place to grab a slice or a whole pizza pie. I love the local sports vibe here. They have other locations up the Peninsula, but this one is my favorite. 

     

    Client Recommendations:

     

    DESSERT: PORTUGUESE TASTY DESSERT

    1085 El Camino Real

    “C” says to try the cinnamon bread, egg tarts, and the malassadas. I’m glad I listened- everything was delicious. It’s a cozy little spot where everything is made with love.

     

    INDIAN:

    THE YELLOW CHILI3555 Monroe Street #80

    JACKS AUTHENTIC INDIAN & MODERN VIBE- 3333 Coronado Place

    I have yet to try these restaurants, but “P” loves these two.

     

    halohalo
    Savoring Halo Halo, a delicious Filipino dessert, with my girls in front of Toppings Tree.

    Drinks:

    BREWERY: TAPLANDS

    1171 Homestead Road

    Fun, casual place with small bites and good beer.

     

    BOBA/COFFEE: JIAREN CAFE

    1171 Homestead Road Suite 140B

    Cute, community-focused shop with delicious drinks. Check out their website for classes & events.

     

    COFFEE: VOYAGER CRAFT COFFEE

    -1171 Homestead Road Suite140B

    -3985 Stevens Creek Boulevard

    Locally made craft coffee with a vibe. Four locations in the South Bay, and two are in Santa Clara. Lucky us!

     

    COFFEE: WHATCOFFEE & BAKERY

    1002 Monroe Street

    The newest coffee spot in the neighborhood has arrived! Modern vibe with tasty treats.

    Leisurely Strolls:

    CENTRAL PARK

    909 Kiely Boulevard

    Take a walk through lush greenery, relax by the pond, and enjoy a picnic! There’s also a swim center (seasonal), a community center, a Magical Bridge children’s playground, a library, and several community events held here throughout the year. Check the city website for details.

     

    SANTA CLARA FARMER’S MARKET

    950 Jackson Street

    Held every Saturday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., this small farmer’s market has everything you’ll need. It showcases an array of seasonal produce, artisanal goods, flowers, and gourmet treats. Bonus: it’s across the street from me at Long Weekend Waxing & Skincare so feel free to park nearby and say Hi!

     

    SANTA CLARA UNIVERSITY

    500 El Camino Real

    Not too far from the farmer’s market is the historic campus of Santa Clara University. Admire the Mission-style buildings, stroll through the courtyards, and soak in the intellectual vibe of this prestigious institution. Don’t miss the iconic Mission Santa Clara de Asís, a beloved landmark with a rich heritage dating back to the 18th century. It’s open to the public daily from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., but remember that it is an active church. Please be respectful.

     

    SELF-GUIDED HOME TOUR

    Before scoring this adorable location on Franklin Street, I had no idea Santa Clara had so many historic homes. When I have some downtime, I’ll walk around and admire these beauties. From Queen-Annes, craftsman styles, cottages, colonial revivals, and more, there’s something for all you architecture fans. 

     

    SAN TOMAS AQUINO CREEK TRAIL

    Trailhead at Everett N. “Eddie” Souza Park to Baylands Park Trail

    Whether you’re out for a brisk walk, a jog, or a bike ride, this multi-use trail offers an easy and quick escape from the hustle & bustle of everyday life.

     

     

    Pausing to admire the blooms at this stunning Eastlake-style home on Washington Street.

    I’ve only begun exploring this beautiful city, so if you have any suggestions, please let me know! I’ll be sharing my favorites from neighboring cities in an upcoming post. Thanks for reading, and as always, travel beautifully!

  • New to San Jose? A Newcomers Guide

    Welcome to San Jose, newbie! It’s a beautiful area with tons to do, but fair warning—it’s big and spread out, so get ready to rack up some serious miles. Weekday traffic can be challenging, with congestion often starting as early as 7 a.m. for northbound travelers and switching southbound around 3 p.m., typically lasting until about 6 p.m. or later. Fun times. So, plan your activities with traffic in mind to make the most of your day and avoid road rage

     

    Welcome to San Jose mural

    Luckily, this giant city is bursting with restaurants, bars, dessert spots, and much more. You can Google many popular places to see and eat, but this blog will highlight some of my favorite, perhaps lesser-known, hidden gems and farmers’ markets (who doesn’t love a good farmers’ market?). Now, here are my recommendations separated by neighborhood:

    JAPANTOWN:

    One of three remaining authentic Japantowns in the U.S., it offers cute shops and delicious Japanese and Hawaiian food. Check hours, as many places are closed on Mondays.

     

    SUSHI: Sushi Maru- 262 Jackson Street

    HAWAIIAN: Hukilau- 230 Jackson Street

    POKE: Santo Market- 245 E Taylor Street

    MEXICAN: La Corona Taqueria – 601 N 4th Street

    MOCHI & SHAVE ICE: Shuei-Do Manju Shop- 217 Jackson Street

    SHAVE ICE: Pau Hana Shave Ice- 248 Jackson Street

    KARAOKE: 7 Bamboo Lounge- 162 Jackson Street

     

    FARMERS’ MARKET:

    Sundays 8 a.m.-Noon until October (check the website)

    Gordon Biersch Brewery-357 E. Taylor Street

    A vibrant street view of Japantown featuring the Japantown logo and the Nikkei Lantern, perfect for exploring if you're new to San Jose.
    Jackson & 5th Street in Japantown

    DOWNTOWN:

    Downtown San Jose is a lively urban hub with cultural attractions, diverse dining, vibrant nightlife, and a mix of tech innovation and historic charm.

     

    EATS & ENTERTAINMENT: San Pedro Square- 87 N San Pedro Street

    OAXACAN STYLE MEXICAN: Mezcal Restaurant- 25 W San Fernando Street

    SANDWICHES: Freshly Baked Eatery- 152 N 3rd Street # 101

    KOREAN: Danbi- 1092 N First Street

    BAR: Rec Room- 1 E San Fernando Street

    THE ALAMEDA: 

    This area features historic homes, tree-lined streets, and local boutique shops.

     

    MEXICAN: Luna Mexican Kitchen- 1495 The Alameda

    WINERY: J.Lohr Winery- 1000 Lenzen Avenue

    BOOKSTORE: Recycle Bookstore- 1066 The Alameda

     

    Mural of a shark by illustrator, Nychos, for the San Jose Sharks on display in the Whole Foods parking lot on the Alameda.
    San Jose Sharks mural at the Whole Foods Parking Lot in The Alameda

    THE ROSE GARDEN

    The Rose Garden neighborhood is a picturesque area known for its early 20th-century homes and the iconic Municipal Rose Garden.

     

    GARDEN: Municipal Rose Garden- 1649 Naglee Avenue

    MUSEUM: Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum- 1660 Park Avenue

    *BREAKFAST: The Breakfast Club at Midtown- 1432 W San Carlos Street #80

    *MIDDLE EASTERN: Falafel’s Drive In- 2301 Stevens Creek Boulevard

    *Just right outside the Rose Garden neighborhood

     

    FARMERS’ MARKET:

    Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Year-round

    577 Dana Street

    WEST SAN JOSE:

    Home to the famous Winchester Mystery House and two mega shopping hubs, Santana Row & Westfield Valley Fair, this area is always buzzing.

     

    BBQ: South Winchester BBQ- 1362 S Winchester Boulevard

    UDON: Udon Mugizu- 1072 Saratoga Avenue

    JAPANESE MARKET: Mitsuwa Marketplace- 675 Saratoga Avenue

    ICE CREAM: Smitten Ice Cream- 3055 Olin Avenue #1055

     

    Client Recommendation:

    CONTEMPORARY INDIAN: Fitoor- 377 Santana Row #1140

     

    FARMERS’ MARKETS:

    Santana Row Wednesdays, 4 p.m.- 8 p.m. from May to September  

    Between Olin Ave & Olsen Dr., Santana Row   

       

    *Saratoga- Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Year-round

    West Valley, Parking Lot 3 Fruitvale Ave & Career Way, Saratoga, CA 95070

     

    *Campbell- Sundays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Year-round

    Along E. Campbell Ave., between Central Ave and 3rd Street

     

    *These are technically not in San Jose, but they’re both nearby and worth a visit, so I didn’t want to leave them out.

     

    A colorful mural featuring the many landmarks of the Willow Glen neighborhood.
    Last mural pic, I promise

    WILLOW GLEN:

    Tree-lined streets, historic homes, and the lively main street, Lincoln Avenue, offer a small-town, family-friendly feel in the middle of San Jose.

     

    BREWERY: Hapa’s Brewery- 460 Lincoln Avenue #90

    DESSERT: Mariette’s Chocolates- 1268 Lincoln Avenue

    HALAL CUISINE: Halal Amigos- 1100 Lincoln Avenue

    ROOFTOP DINING: Copita- 1098 Lincoln Avenue

    SANDWICHES & RAVIOLI: Bertucelli’s La Villa- 1319 Lincoln Avenue

    HOME GOODS: Saguaro Home- 1314 Lincoln Avenue #1a

     

    FARMERS’ MARKET:

    Saturdays, 9.a.m.-1 p.m. Year-round

    Willow Glen Elementary- 1425 Lincoln Avenue

     

     

    Nem nướng cuốn (grilled pork roll) from Cơm Tấm Thiên Hương
    Delicious Phở Dặc Biệt (meaning "special, with everything") also from Cơm Tấm Thiên Hương

     

     

    LITTLE SAIGON & SPRING BROOK:

    Little Saigon is rich in Vietnamese culture, offering a variety of authentic restaurants, shops, and markets.

     

    VIETNAMESE SANDWICHES: Duc Huong- 1020 Story Road # C

    DESSERT: CA Bakehouse- 979 Story Road Unit 7066

    RICE PLATES & MORE: Cơm Tấm Thiên Hương- 909 Story Road Unit 100

    PHO (Vietnamese soup): Pho 90 Degrees- 999 Story Road Unit #9090

    VIET MUSEUM: Inside History San Jose- Pacific Hotel Building, 1650 Senter Road

     

    GLASS ART/GLASS BLOWING:

    Bay Area Glass Institute (BAGI)

    Inside History San Jose- 635 Phelan Avenue

    BERRYESSA/ALUM ROCK

    Berryessa is located in northern San Jose, between Milpitas, CA, and the Alum Rock neighborhood. Alum Rock is known for its rugged hills, natural beauty, and expansive Alum Rock Park.

     

    CAJUN SEAFOOD: The Kickin Crab- 2675 Cropley Avenue

    BAKERY: Peter’s Bakery- 3108 Alum Rock Avenue

    PHO: Pho Tick Tock Restaurant- 399 N Capitol Avenue

     

    Client Recommendations:

    HAWAIIAN: Olioli Hawaiian BBQ- 1657 N Capitol Avenue

    BREAKFAST: A Bite of Wyoming- 2227 Alum Rock Avenue

    KOREAN: Big Spoon Korean Bistro- 255 N. White Road #102

    SUSHI: Sushi Pro- 1078 E Brokaw Road

     

    FARMERS’ MARKETS:  

    Alum Rock Village: Sundays, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Year-round

    James Lick High School 23 N. White Road

     

    Berryessa Farmer’s Market: Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1p.m. until November 16, 2024

    Piedmont Middle School 945 Piedmont Road

     

    Cafe 86 in Evergreen Village Square

    EVERGREEN:

    With rolling hills, lush greenery, and sweeping Silicon Valley views, Evergreen is a go-to spot for families and professionals.

     

    BREAKFAST: Evergreen Inn & Pub- 3273 S. White Road

    SUSHI: Trifecta- 5665 Silver Creek Valley Road

    DESSERT: Cafe 86- 4055 Evergreen Village Square

    ROLLER SKATING: Aloha Fun Center- 2190 Eastridge Loop #1402

    WATERPARK (seasonal): Calibunga- 2333 S. White Road

     

    FARMERS’ MARKET:

    Wednesdays & Sundays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Year-round

    4055 Evergreen Village Square San Jose, CA

     

     

    Ube Coffee at Pour Decisions in South San Jose
    The signature Ube Coffee at Pour Decisions

    SOUTH SAN JOSE:

    South San Jose has suburban appeal, diverse neighborhoods, and a friendly, community-focused vibe.

     

    BREAKFAST: Southern Kitchen- 3378 Monterey Road

    SUSHI: Cha Cha Sushi- 547 W Capitol Expressway

    CRAFT COFFEE & BEER: Pour Decisions- 5700 Village Oaks Drive #20

    DRIVE-IN MOVIES: West Wind Capitol Drive-In 3630 Hillcap Avenue

     

    Client Recommendations:

    THAI: Oros Thai- 6177 Santa Teresa Boulevard

    SUSHI: Kampai Sushi & Grill- 171 Branham Lane #3

     

    FARMERS’ MARKET:

    Kaiser Permanente San Jose 

    Tuesdays, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Year-round, 250 International Circle

    That’s all for now! San Jose is huge, and even after living here forever, I still haven’t tried everything. If you have any suggestions, I’d love to hear them. Thanks for reading, and as always, travel beautifully!