Blog — Blonde Voyage Nashville

Paris | From Monks to Modern Mixology: The Fascinating Story of Chartreuse

When it comes to travel, are you the type of person who plans every detail of a trip down to the minute, or do you prefer to improvise and see where the road may take you? Over the last few years, I’ve learned that travel can be such a personal experience, and how we approach it often says a lot about our personalities. Whether you’re into color-coded itineraries or you thrive on last-minute adventures, there’s no right or wrong way to explore. During my last few adventures, I’ve made a loose itinerary- securing those restaurant reservations or tickets to a must-see museum exhibition, but if it’s a town I’m becoming acquainted with, I like to leave ample time to explore and wander off the beaten path. After all, you never know who you will meet or what you may stumble upon.

ParisCatherine CourtneyDecember 12, 2024Chartreuse, ParisComment

Paris | Behind the Seams: A Journey Through La Galerie Dior

Paris is home to over 130 museums, offering a wealth of cultural, artistic, historical, and scientific treasures. It also means that it can be quite a daunting task to determine which ones to visit during your travels. From grand art museums like the Louvre to historical landmarks like the Palais Garnier, Paris truly has something for everyone. With so many incredible offerings in Paris, La Galerie Dior stands out as a must-visit for anyone who loves fashion, design, or the artistry behind luxury. Unlike traditional museums, La Galerie Dior is a celebration of one brand’s enduring legacy and its revolutionary impact on the world of style. It’s more than just a museum or display of clothing; you’re immersed in Dior’s creative mind/world, including his sketches and the most breathtaking displays of haute couture this girl has ever seen.

ParisCatherine CourtneyNovember 27, 2024La Galerie DiorComment

Paris | Three Parisian Stores Every Traveler Must Visit

Known as the “City of Light,” Paris has a magical blend of history, art, food, and culture that makes it unforgettable. For many, it’s the romance of strolling along the Seine, seeing the Eiffel Tower light up at night, or enjoying a leisurely coffee at a sidewalk café.

ParisCatherine CourtneyNovember 18, 2024Louise Carmen, E. DEHILLERIN, Marin MontagutComment

Nashville | Gold's Deli- A New Go To Hot Spot For Sandwich Lovers

I don’t know about y’all, but there’s just something about a good sandwich. From grilled cheese, open-faced sandwiches, breakfast sandwiches, or even the ever-so-popular submarine, I love them all. When I saw the post about Gold’s Deli on the Foodies of Nashville page, I immediately added it to my weekend itinerary. < And if you aren't following Foodies of Nashville- check it out!>

NashvilleCatherine CourtneyNovember 6, 2024Gold's Deli, ColumbiaComment

Where Fashion Meets Flavor: Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton

Visiting Paris feels like stepping into a dream, with its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and rich history and architecture that captivates at every turn. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, the city’s allure unfolds in the little details: quaint flower shops, the bouquinistes near the Seine, and the wafting scent of fresh pastries from local patisseries. It’s impossible to resist stopping for a cappuccino or taking photos of the Eiffel Tower. In fact, I caught myself wondering how I could relocate from Nashville to Paris. After all, my company does have an office here!

ParisCatherine CourtneyNovember 2, 2024Louis Vuitton, Maxime Frederic, LV Dream, LVMHComment

A Weekend In Edinburgh: The Best Places to Eat, Drink, and Explore

Over the last few months, I’ve been pondering what the term “vacation” means to me. I am someone who loves to make the most of every single trip, the type of person who treats every moment as an opportunity to explore. For me, I am not the friend you call if you want to lay on a beach for five consecutive days and sip cocktails. While that may sound ideal for some, I am the friend you call if you want to dive into each destination, like it’s your only chance to be there. Squeezing in an early walk to a local attraction, visiting local markets, trying every restaurant and bar you can…For me, it’s about experiencing as much as possible.

Nashville | The Wait is Over- Maíz De La Vida Is Now Open In The Gulch

Over the last couple of months, I’ve decided I have two work personalities: the one who hits snooze at least two times before crawling out of bed and heading into the office and the one who will wake up at any ungodly time in the middle of the night, without hesitation might I add, to catch a flight for a work trip. The past two months have been a little chaotic, and frankly, I’ve spent more time commuting back and forth to BNA than I have in my bed- a good problem to have on occasion.

NashvilleCatherine CourtneyOctober 22, 2024Maíz De La Vida, Chef Julio Hernandez, Gulch dining, Mexican FoodComment

Mexico City | From Taquerias To Fine Dining: Where To Eat In Mexico City

Mexico City is best described as a culinary wonderland that should be at the top of every food enthusiast's bucket list.

This vibrant metropolis offers an unparalleled gastronomic adventure, blending ancient Aztec traditions with modern innovations.

From sizzling street tacos to world-renowned fine dining establishments pushing culinary boundaries, the city caters to every palate and budget.

Mexico City | Savor The Flavors Of Mexico At Pujol: An Unforgettable Dining Experience

Admittedly, no sweeter words exist than "Can I see your passport and boarding pass?"

But for me, coming in at a close section is "Ma'am, your reservation is confirmed."

Mexico City | The Insider's Guide To Shopping In Mexico City

Is it me, or are you absolutely baffled by your friends and colleagues who don't take all their PTO? I realize there are numerous factors at play here. Meanwhile, I am doing the absolute most over here, tracking my vacation in an Excel spreadsheet and maximizing my time by combining it with long weekends and holidays.

So it is no surprise that I was home less than three weeks before repacking my suitcase and traveling south to Mexico City.

Mexico CityCatherine CourtneySeptember 9, 2024Numen Design, Mooni, Colima 112, Irene Bufffa, Xinu PerfumesComment

Portland | 24 Hours In Portland? These Are The Places To Visit

After spending two full days in Willamette Valley, it was time to head to downtown Portland for a little change of scenery. For those unfamiliar with Portland, it’s a vibrant area with a mix of attractions. For my book lovers, pay a visit to the largest independent bookstore in the world, Powell’s City of Books. Not only does it span an entire city block, but it has an extensive collection of new and used books. It’s an easy place to lose track of time. For my art enthusiasts, check out The Portland Art Museum, the oldest museum in the Pacific Northwest. It boasts an incredible collection of Native American artifacts, contemporary art, and some incredible rotating exhibitions. In fact, I am kicking myself for not making time to see the Monet to Matisse: French Moderns exhibit. If you don’t have time to spend at the museum, Portland is known for its vibrant public art scene. The downtown area is dotted with murals and sculptures, making it fun to explore on foot

PortlandCatherine CourtneyAugust 28, 2024Lilia Comedor, Négotiant, Battle Creek Cellars, Jojo, Cafe RowanComment

Your Guide To Wine Tasting In Willamette Valley

When Alaska Airlines added a nonstop flight between Nashville and Portland, it took less than a week to make it out of the group chat and planning to commence. While I’ve had the opportunity to explore Napa and the English countryside, Willamette Valley is one place that has been on my bucket list for quite some time.

Nashville's Newest Treasure | Butterlamp Bread And Beverage

Nashville has a vibrant and diverse dining scene that has gained significant attention in recent years. It seems like a new restaurant or bar is opening weekly, making it hard for this girl to keep up. As I've been combing through restaurant listicles and articles about some of my favorite long-time establishments shuttering, there was one place I've been keeping an eye on: Butterlamp Bread and Beverage. I was bursting with anticipation when I saw a wine bar and bread house opening in East Nashville. After all, those are two of my favorite food groups- Do you really need anything more?

NashvilleCatherine CourtneyAugust 16, 2024East Nashville, Wine Bar, Butterlamp Bread and Beverage, ButterlampComment

Boston | Your Guide To The Ultimate Weekend In Boston

Warm weather and longer days make it the perfect time to travel and explore a new city. If you're like me, I often realize there are always more places to visit than I have time. If you want to stay state-side this summer, I have the perfect place to visit: Boston, Massachusetts.

London | For the Culture & Cocktail Connoisseur

If you are traveling to London, I am about to let you in on one of the best-kept secrets in the city. But only because I adore my readers.

Nestled among the hustle and bustle of Piccadilly lies one of the city's most charming and elegant spots, Maison Assouline.

LondonCatherine CourtneyJune 9, 2024Swans Bar, Maison AssoulineComment

London | All Aboard The Cheese Barge- Where You Are Guaranteed A Gouda Day!

Are you looking for a fun and unique experience in London? Look no further than The Cheese Barge, London’s only floating restaurant dedicated to cheese.

Appealing to cheese lovers and food enthusiasts alike, here are a few reasons The Cheese Barge must be on your next London Itinerary.

LondonCatherine CourtneyMay 22, 2024The Cheese Barge, London, PaddingtonComment

Thailand | Love Should Never Be Mild- Dinner at Ms. Maria & Mr Singh

My culinary journey at Gaggan Anand left me in a state of euphoria for hours after my meal ended. It was the dopamine hit that kept on giving the entire time I was in Thailand. So much so that I was plotting my return visit, but this time, I wanted to check out his upstairs restaurant, Ms. Maria & Mr Singh.

Thailand | What It's Like To Eat At Gaggan Anand, One Of The World's 50 Best Restaurants

If you were to ask me what was on my 2024 vision board, you’d see images of London, Portugal, more images of London ( yes, I am obsessed), vineyards, and Mexico City, but definitely not Thailand.

I mean, not even close.

Hear me out. Travel is all about personal preference. I tend to seek out locations that have beautiful landscapes and a variety of cultural attractions, and, of course, there’s usually no shortage of incredible bars and restaurants.

ThailandCatherine CourtneyApril 23, 2024Gaggan Anand, World's 50 Best Restaurants, Michelin Guide, Michelin StarComment

Thailand | Come With Me As I Spend An Afternoon With The Elephants

It’s hard to believe that it’s already March. To be honest, I didn’t think we would ever crawl our way out of the black hole that is known as January. Spring is right around the corner, and I think it’s safe to say that there’s nothing better than warmer temperatures, watching the plants and trees bloom, having the birds chirp, and, of course, the longer days.

ThailandCatherine CourtneyMarch 1, 2024Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Pattaya, ElephantsComment

Nashville | Visiting Nashville? This Is One Place You Don't Want To Miss...

Nashville, Tennessee, is one of the top tourist destinations in the country, and for a good reason. While we may be known for our Honky Tonks and Hot Chicken, Music City has so much more to offer.

Take from a Nashville native.

From culinary adventures to outdoorsy exploration ( And no, I am not talking about wandering up and down Broadway) and our world-renowned music scene, Nashville really does have it all.