From Silicon Valley to NOVA: A Journey of Exploration and Discovery

In 2014, we left Silicon Valley, leaving behind family and familiarity for an exciting new opportunity in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Living in Northern Virginia (NOVA) offered us the unique advantage of being within close proximity to several neighboring states, making weekend explorations both convenient and irresistible. Over the course of three unforgettable years, we embarked on countless adventures, discovering the beauty and diversity of the East Coast.

From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the serene shores of the Outer Banks, each destination left a lasting impression. We wandered through the iconic landscapes of Central Park, soaked up the sun at Myrtle Beach, and hiked the scenic trails of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cape Henlopen State Park introduced us to Delaware’s stunning coastline, while Baltimore’s rich history and vibrant harbor provided endless charm. We also explored the cultural heartbeat of Washington, D.C., and ventured into the rolling hills of Pennsylvania and the rugged beauty of West Virginia.

Every trip added to our appreciation of the East Coast’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture. These experiences not only broadened our horizons but also created cherished memories that will stay with us forever.

Manhattan Central Park, New York

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware

Blue Ridge Mountain, Virginia

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Comments

Long Weekend Escape to South Carolina

Before the sun had even begun to rise on Thursday morning, we packed our bags, loaded the car, and hit the road—determined to get ahead of the Washington Metropolitan Area’s notorious rush hour. An hour later, the city's chaos faded in our rearview mirror, replaced by the open road stretching ahead. With every passing mile, we left behind the relentless hustle and slipped into the promise of a slower, more scenic adventure in South Carolina.

We’ll Always Have Morocco

Day 6: Into the Heart of the Kasbahs — From Dunes to Dramatic Gorges We rose before dawn, the desert still wrapped in silence and stars. The air was crisp, the sky a canvas of deep indigo slowly giving way to shades of gold and rose. As we climbed back onto our camels, the only sounds were the soft crunch of sand beneath padded feet and the gentle whisper of wind over the dunes. At the crest of a ridge, we paused—and there it was: sunrise over the Sahara . It wasn’t just beautiful; it was soul-stirring. The dunes blushed with morning light, shifting from bronze to fiery orange. Shadows danced. Time stood still. It felt as though the desert was breathing with us—alive with something ancient and eternal. We returned to camp for a traditional Berber breakfast: warm bread, honey, fresh dates, and mint tea that tasted like sunshine in a glass. After breakfast, we bid farewell to our camels, our hosts, and the magical slice of Morocco that had taken root in our hearts. Back in our 4x4s,...

From Savannah to Sea: Our Tanzanian & Zanzibar Journey

Day 12 (July 15) – Dolphins, Dhows & Kendwa Beach In the morning, Michelle and Tristan set out with Captain Barnaba to snorkel and chase dolphins, laughing as the pods surfaced and darted around the boat. The rest of us walked toward Kendwa Beach, when a sudden tropical downpour swept through—here one moment, gone the next. At Kendwa, Kaitlin had her hair braided while we browsed beachside stalls run by women selling colorful beaded bracelets and necklaces. Later, we returned to Kilindi, where the afternoon slowed into lazy hours by the pool. As the sun began to sink, we boarded a traditional wooden dhow and sailed into the horizon, the sky melting into shades of gold and rose. Dinner was on the beach—fresh lobster, toes in the sand, waves rolling in the dark. At midnight, our private transfer arrived to take us to Zanzibar Airport, the journey’s end quietly unfolding under the island stars. Day 4 (July 8) – From Tarangire to the Crater’s Edge We left Tarangire behind this morning,...

Hobo Lolo

Search This Blog