Thirty Things to Do Before I Turn Thirty (Well…Here’s Hoping, Anyway!)

Two weeks ago, I turned 25. Cue the quarter life crisis. I’m supposed to be adulting now, but instead I’m just over here binging Netflix.

Turns out, “halfway to 30” doesn’t mean “existential questions answered.” Shocker. Guess I’m still the clueless human I was at 24.

Alright…so, my twenty-something years are numbered. So, I’m nowhere close to nailing down my purpose—outside of moscato and HIMYM. So, life hasn’t taken the course I once assumed it would. So what?

Age doesn’t have an expiration date, and 30 isn’t even that old. Besides, five whole years stand between me and the Big Three-0. Five years of adventures, opportunities, aspirations and undertakings. Five years to define (and re-define) my goals. Five years to make. it. happen. 

On that note, you obviously know what’s coming:

Drumroll, please…

Phew…that was one monster post. If you stuck it out, thanks for being a trooper! Now, what’s on your “30 Before 30” bucket list? Promise I won’t steal your brilliant ideas—unless I need more inspiration when I turn 40!

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When Wellness Meets Wanderlust…

My latest hashtag obsession is #WellnessWednesday because it’s yet another excuse to bombard Instagram with Nutri Bullet concoctions, farmer’s market finds, quirky kitchen experiments, post-Pure Barre selfies, or other health and fitness snippets.

But here’s another social media trend I’ve recently discovered— #WanderlustWednesday, which fuels my desire to travel while aiming my fangirl energy at those Instafamous globetrotters. Million-dollar question, though: Do I admire their free spirits or hate their guts for jetting off to Dubai on a random workweek? #CantDecide.

Anyway (existential conumdrums aside), since it’s Wednesday, I’ve decided to combine both hashtags into one blog post. After all, with spring break and summer vacations just around the corner, “travel bug” symptoms will reach epidemic proportions. This. Is. Not. A. Drill.

Whether you’ve booked a weekend beach getaway, cross-country road trip or overseas adventure in these upcoming months, don’t let fitness and nutrition goals take a vacay too. So, before the “bon voyage,” add my Three Step Healthy Travel Checklist to your itinerary.

√   Make smart snacks accessible. If you’re driving, pack a cooler with no-mess options like carrots, grapes, almonds or sunflower seeds. If you’re flying, pinpoint a natural foods market near your destination and grab some guilt-free munchies for the hotel room.

√   Keep physical activity on the agenda. Instead of a sightseeing bus tour, enjoy the local landmarks on-foot or rented bikes. Visit a National Park for nature excursions like hiking, kayaking or horseback riding. Even take advantage of your hotel’s fitness amenities.

√   Plan for just-in-case medical care. Unforeseen illnesses or injuries, not only interrupt a trip, but are difficult to seek treatment for when you don’t know the area. In such emergencies, Amino’s “Find a Doctor” service connects you to physicians based on your current location, insurance network and personal needs.

And for even more resources on staying healthy wherever the road takes you, check out these additional suggestions below:

It’s foolproof—Wellness + Wanderlust = WINNING!

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Special thanks to Amino for supplying both the Infographic and “Find a Doctor” referral information featured in this post.

Hippie in the City: 5 Ways to Stay Active While Visiting NYC

In a definitive ranking of things I’m most passionate about, the order goes:

1. New York City
2. Everything Else

Although my first time actually experiencing the city didn’t happen until a couple years ago, I’ve spent my whole life daydreaming about living there (all you native New Yorkers are probably rolling your eyes right now!).

And, full disclosure: I will live there someday. Once I’ve successfully convinced Amy Poehler that we’re second-cousins-once-removed. Meanwhile though, I’ll settle for weekend visits — against my bank account’s better judgement. But, hey…no regrets!

In fact, I just got back from spending Labor Day in New York, and as per usual, New York did not disappoint. I could write an entire novel about my trip, but rather than a gratuitous “I heart NY” recap, let’s give this post a wellness twist. ‘Cause I’m always on the lookout for healthy tidbits, after all.

So, if you’re planning a Big Apple getaway this fall, include my Top 5 Picks for Figure-Friendly Fun in your travel itinerary:

1. Rent a Citi Bike

my cycling-obsessed main squeeze!

Citi Bike central

This cycle-sharing transit system allows you to cruise the Manhattan streets from a two-wheeler vantage point. Simply stop by any docking station (located in various neighborhoods around town), select your payment plan (24-hour or 7-day) from the touchscreen kiosk, pedal away on a Concrete Jungle adventure, then return the bike to another station along your route.  Exercise + Sightseeing = Win-Win Situation.

2. Check out Chelsea Market

this way to pure happiness

so many choices!

Japanese lentil & rice bowl from Takumi Taco

This enclosed food court, flea market and art gallery extravaganza might just be the Meatpacking District’s trendiest attraction. Located inside a brick industrial building, the urban architecture, artsy vibe and tantalizing smells make Chelsea Market a can’t-miss on your NYC agenda. Over 35 restaurant vendors are featured, running the gamut from kale smoothies to imported cheese. I recommend Takumi Taco (a.k.a. Japanese-Mexican-fusion-amazingness).

3. Walk the High Line

amazing views of the Lower West Side

historic freight railway

Hudson River from the High Line

Empire State Building from the High Line

selfie with graffiti!

This above-ground walkway meandering through Manhattan’s West Side is actually a refurbished freight line. Ogle at panoramic spectacles including Lady Liberty, the Hudson River, the Empire State Building and other iconic landmarks. Traipse along old railroad tracks, bursting with seasonal foliage and colorful blooms. Even participate in wellness activities such as Meditation or Tai Chi. Because life’s better over street level!

4. Explore the Parks

the happy couple in Central Park…

…in Bryant Park

…and in Washington Square Park

These next stopping points on your Big Apple checklist offer a unique juxtaposition of nature surrounded by skyline. From iconic Central to shore-lined Battery, the thriving New York park system provides ample space for hiking, cycling, recharging with fresh air and even relaxing in the shade. Whether you’re uptown or downtown, this sprawling metropolis is also a tree-hugger’s playground.

5. Visit a Green Market 

all the veggies!

seasonal…local…delectable

This urban farmer’s market initiative takes place during the entire week, throughout various city-wide districts. My personal preference is visiting the Union Square location on Saturdays. Sample organic herbal teas, stock up on locally-sourced produce and peruse artisan “foodie” finds. It’s a health-conscious flavor tour that both your waistline and taste buds will appreciate.  ‘Nuff said.

Know any other wellness-centric activities worth adding to the list? (Looking at you, New Yorker peeps…) Sound off in the comments section below!