Category: Hampton Inn

3/26/2025 0 Comments

455) A 500 mile journey: Jacksonville to Key West - travel day 2025

Join me on the road as we drive 500 miles through The Sunshine State.

Today we are driving from Jacksonville, Florida, all the way down to the Southernmost point of the United States in Key West, Florida. It’s a five hundred mile journey, and it’s my favorite drive in all the world.

If you’re new to the channel, welcome to a community of dreamers. Either way, definitely be sure to say hello! And many thanks for joining me for another day on this beautiful planet Earth.
___
Seven Mile Bridge:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhlNrCCg99E&t=2s
Florida Keys Winter 2025:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ISRqEVeLn6hI7xEsoQuHnEh&si=TrJ4evD2b8SvE-oC
Florida Keys:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ISbq6gA_WOggqXp7SDF8WBP&si=cw5E7eIvrs91WV7d
Hampton Inn Key West hotel room tour:
https://www.christinesfloridiandreams.com/christines-dreams---blog/46-key-largo-montego-baby-why-dont-we-go
My experience in the 2020 Key West Half Marathon:
https://www.christinesfloridiandreams.com/christines-dreams---blog/42-question-where-does-the-chicken-cross-the-road
My hotel review - Hampton Inn Key Largo:
https://www.christinesfloridiandreams.com/christines-dreams---blog/46-key-largo-montego-baby-why-dont-we-go
Jacksonville, FL:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7IShaHCmZoxotV080ibgVsIr&si=ssuH6t2wW0Tw_Pz0
St. Augustine, FL:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7IR1_dRr5VSHL0-RVtvKNDSV&si=LYAZwJkkAHImGNUY
Frankfort, IL:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITDeIl5cSsCTrf02tEBQOuH&si=T9zzmUSVixikI8Op
___
Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area:
https://www.miamidade.gov/parksmasterplan/library/MPO_bp_sdgn_southernglades.pdf
Bahia Honda State Park:
https://www.floridastateparks.org/BahiaHonda
Volunteer - Florida State Parks:
https://volunteers.floridastateparks.org/
Friends of Bahia Honda:
https://friendsofbahiahonda.org/
Flagler Railroad:
https://www.floridastateparks.org/learn/flagler-railroad
Enrico’s Pizza:
https://www.enricospizza.com/location/enricos-pizza-key-largo/
Tower of Pizza:
https://www.towerofpizzakeylargo.com/
African Queen:
https://calypsosailing.com/The-African-Queen
Waterside Suites & Marina:
https://www.watersidesuitesandmarina.com/
Florida Keys Sculpture Trail:
https://keysarts.com/artist_connections/new_sculpture_trail_map.pdf
Overseas Highway:
https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/florida-keys-outdoor-nature-adventures/
Florida Keys:
https://www.visitflorida.com/places-to-go/southeast/florida-keys/
The Reach Key West - Curio Collection by Hilton:
https://reachresort.com/
___
This video was filmed on Sunday, January 26, 2025 in The Sunshine State.
Video 579.
#roadtrip #floridakeys #keywest
___

Hey there fellow dreamers! March Before You Feel Like It... If you've got dreams - it's up to YOU to make them come true.

I'm Christine Pieper, and these are my Floridian dreams. I am an artist, writer, and content creator here on YouTube, living my very best life in The Sunshine State. I'm here to give you a push - I want you to have the best day of your life today, then do it all over again tomorrow. These are my dreams, and if you've got dreams - it's up to you to make them come true - and no one else.

I go LIVE and publish videos, from somewhere in The Sunshine State - taking you along on all of my Floridian adventures - and beyond! Join me for walking tours, dining reviews, hotel and beach cottage room tours, adventure hikes, beach walks, sunrises, sunsets, as well as simply soaking in and appreciating the sights and sounds of the world around us. So be sure to SUBSCRIBE and join a community of fellow dreamers so you don’t miss a thing! But either way, please say hello! And let me know - what step are you taking today to pursue all your dreams?

Love you,
Christine

*P.S. Share out this video with anyone you know who wants to go on an adventure!*

How you can directly support the content on this YouTube Channel:
1) Subscribe, Like, & Share this YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@christinepieper
2) Art for sale: http://www.christinesfloridiandreams.com/art-for-sale.html
3) Shop silly and motivational merch: https://christines-floridian-dreams.myspreadshop.com/
4) Children’s Books, Coloring Books, Notebooks:
https://www.christinesfloridiandreams.com/childrens-books.html
5) Bean’s Blog: http://www.christinesfloridiandreams.com
6) Want to know when my next livestream is? My upcoming livestream schedule is always published right here!
https://www.christinesfloridiandreams.com/upcoming-livestream-schedule.html
7) Support the channel via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/christinepieper
8) Support the channel via Venmo: http://venmo.com/u/beansfldreams
___
*Editorial Disclaimer:
All opinions are my very own, and are not the opinions of any paid sponsorship, affiliate/review program, or brand partnership.
___
Welcome to another day on this beautiful planet Earth. Now, let’s go on an adventure together! Subscribe. Like. Share… and Dream.
___

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9/26/2024 0 Comments

334) Pre Hurricane Helene: Street to the Beach - Jacksonville Beach, Florida 9.26.24

Good evening fellow dreamers. Join me for ‘Street to the Beach’ in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Today we are checking out the town of Jacksonville Beach and the beach itself before Hurricane Helene gets bad. We are in the outer bands on the Atlantic Ocean side of the storm.

After this livestream the storm strengthened again from a Category 3 to a Category 4 hurricane before landfall on the Gulf coast. I do hope everyone in the path is safe, well, dry, and my best wishes and love sent your way, always.

Love you,
Christine

Jax Ready:
https://www.jaxready.com/
Uber providing free rides to shelters ahead of Helene:
https://www.flgov.com/2024/09/26/governor-ron-desantis-issues-updates-on-preparedness-efforts-ahead-of-hurricane-helene/

My favorite streamers of the day -
Disney Parks With Love - Janel in the Magic Kingdom today:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0l_U3tBiubI
GooToYou! LIVE in Magic Kingdom this evening and Hurricane Helene Relief fundraiser for the American Red Cross:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k41ktellOVg

This was filmed LIVE on Thursday, September 26, 2024 in Jacksonville Beach, Florida

Video 485.
Livestream 189.

#helene #jacksonvillebeach #florida
___

0 Comments

8/9/2024 0 Comments

307) St. Augustine Beach, Florida: Street to the Beach Walking Tour 8.9.2024

Happy Friday fellow dreamers! Today we are continuing with our ‘Street To The Beach’ series of walking tours - here in the charming coastal town of St. Augustine Beach, Florida. Why do we do Street To The Beach, you may ask? Well, because all of life’s greatest journeys lead to the beach - of course.

Have you ever been to St. Augustine Beach, Florida? Are you planning a trip here to The Sunshine State? Let me know!

But either way, if this is your first time finding my Channel, or you’ve already been on many travels and Floridian adventures with me, definitely be sure to say hello! And I’ll see you somewhere under that beautiful sun.

Love ya,
Christine

P.S. Be sure to share out my YouTube Channel with anyone who wants to go on an adventure!

*Please note the start time for this live stream is approximate due to travel. Keep your notification bell ON if you’d like to catch this stream while LIVE! I will start early if I am able.*

Climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse with me!
https://youtu.be/1_bQFGlUxLo?si=YxixDPYRNm0L_d1L

Did you know I livestream in St. Augustine on a regular basis? Check out my St. Augustine playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p-wevrjHvQ&list=PLa7nooQvf7IR1_dRr5VSHL0-RVtvKNDSV

Recent livestream from downtown Jacksonville’s Brooklyn neighborhood:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPOhGSxbey8&t=193s

Our fabulous evening exploring scenic downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iecq5mWCumU&t=1124s

Jax Beach:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7IQPEtmraXz0KI3AX5JZzdCF&si=ESvHlebbb8rzXPbP

Let’s take a summer road trip together!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITN8kLbt84W9-7tqYXWwRlK&si=hdI_Av0SXPn3y0SN

Florida Endless Summer is here, baby!
https://youtu.be/GQtWeh8zn6g?si=dKGHorMlJbhdFZvX
___
St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier:
https://www.sjcfl.us/fishing-piers/

St. Augustine Beach Farmers Market:
https://www.wednesdaypierfarmersmarket.com/

Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort:
https://www.hilton.com/en/locations/usa/florida/st-augustine/embassy-suites/?WT.mc_id=zlada0ww1es2psh3ggl4advbpp5dkt6multibr7_153663312_1003528&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADOgs3SZHH5-pbr6ZyMI4OEDAkn6t&gclid=CjwKCAjw2dG1BhB4EiwA998cqCZPF8VySDBDGcoVp2EstqH8sdkOk0upRAoFkYHd0AZ12kSaEc2k-BoCfIEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Regency Inn & Suites:
https://www.beachregency.com/

Hilton Garden Inn St. Augustine Beach:
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/uststgi-hilton-garden-inn-st-augustine-beach/

Hampton Inn St. Augustine Beach:
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/sgjbhhx-hampton-st-augustine-beach/

Island Donuts:
http://www.islanddonut.com/

Mr. Weatherman:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9Op3-E0ckI

Ron On The Go:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O15Y9JH6_cI
___

This was filmed LIVE on Friday, August 9, 2024 in St. Augustine Beach, Florida.

Video 461.
Livestream 166.

#walkingtour #staugustinebeach #florida
___

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8/4/2024 0 Comments

304) Jacksonville Beach, Florida - Sunday Street to the Beach Walk 8.4.24

Happy Sunday fellow dreamers! Today we are continuing with our ‘Street To The Beach’ series of walking tours - here in beautiful Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Why do we do Street To The Beach, you may ask? Well, because all of life’s greatest journeys lead to the beach - of course.

Have you ever been to Jacksonville Beach, Florida? Are you planning a trip here to The Sunshine State? Let me know!

But either way, if this is your first time finding my Channel, or you’ve already been on many travels and Floridian adventures with me, definitely be sure to say hello! And I’ll see you somewhere under that beautiful sun.

Love,
Christine

P.S. Be sure to share out my YouTube Channel with anyone who wants to go on an adventure!

*Please note the start time for this live stream is approximate due to travel. Keep your notification bell ON if you’d like to catch this stream while LIVE! I will start early if I am able.*

Here’s my recent livestream from downtown Jacksonville’s Brooklyn neighborhood:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPOhGSxbey8&t=193s

Be sure to check out our fabulous evening together exploring downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iecq5mWCumU&t=1124s

Also, check out my Jax Beach playlist, right here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7IQPEtmraXz0KI3AX5JZzdCF&si=ESvHlebbb8rzXPbP

Let’s take a summer road trip together!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITN8kLbt84W9-7tqYXWwRlK&si=hdI_Av0SXPn3y0SN

Florida Endless Summer is here, baby! Protecting your skin from the sun is so important. Check out this video where I rank seven different sunblocks (from worst to best) for 2024:
https://youtu.be/GQtWeh8zn6g?si=dKGHorMlJbhdFZvX
___
Mr. Weatherman:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2b8YS1Iys0M

NOAA/NWS National Hurricane Center:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmjFyCWXar8

Tracking the Tropics from WFLA News Channel 8:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cnJ5lc832qg&t=36s

First Coast News Sunday evening update discussing flooding threat to Jacksonville area:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1EZ0T8BmeM

News4Jax Sunday evening storm track update:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-4JpWL6wKA

Florida Governor declares State of Emergency on 8.1.2024 for Florida ahead of Tropical Storm Debby:
https://www.flgov.com/2024/08/01/memorandum-executive-order-24-156-emergency-management-invest-97l/

https://youtu.be/LWoQyD9vPm4?si=e28nBET-Z0GC7mWh

Florida Governor’s Press Conference on Tropical Storm Debby - Sunday, August 4, 2024:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e94j-Zaabuc

Some very helpful information from Publix regarding hurricane preparedness, supplies, and checklists:
https://www.publix.com/pages/publix-storm-basics
___
This was filmed LIVE on Sunday, August 4, 2024 in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

Video 459.
Livestream 164.

#beachwalk #jacksonvillebeach #florida
___

Thinking of everybody in the storm last night, today, and into tomorrow now as well. This evening as it's continually pouring rain, I think of how much fun we had together yesterday before the storm came through. And after much deep thought, and very serious consideration, I tend to think that Florida Man came out just to put a smile on all of our faces. At least, that's my theory.

Forecast calls for more and more rain tomorrow, so I'm extra glad we're set to have a DIY art project together tomorrow night. I will be drinking iced coffee - with extra ice. So grab your favorite drink and join me Tuesday evening. We'll be sipping, painting, and chatting - together. The stream is up for anyone who needs or wants to chat or simply say hello, and I will be monitoring it as well.

If you missed our Florida Man sighting, the replay is linked in the comments down below.

Stay safe this evening if you are in Debby's path, and I'll see you tomorrow.

Love ya's always,
Christine

#beachwalk #jacksonvillebeach #florida
___

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7/27/2024 0 Comments

299) Jacksonville Beach, Florida - Street To The Beach 7.27.24

Good morning fellow dreamers! Today we are continuing with our ‘Street To The Beach’ series of walking tours - here in beautiful Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Why do we do Street To The Beach, you may ask? Well, because all of life’s greatest journeys lead to the beach - of course.

Have you ever been to Jacksonville Beach, Florida? Are you planning a trip to The Sunshine State? Let me know!

But either way, if this is your first time finding my Channel, or you’ve already been on many travels and Floridian adventures with me, definitely be sure to say hello! And I’ll see you somewhere under that beautiful sun.

Love,
Christine

P.S. Be sure to share out my YouTube Channel with anyone who wants to go on an adventure!

*Please note the start time for this live stream is approximate due to travel. Keep your notification bell ON if you’d like to catch this stream while LIVE! I will start early if I am able.*

Let’s take a summer road trip together!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITN8kLbt84W9-7tqYXWwRlK&si=hdI_Av0SXPn3y0SN

Check out my Florida Keys road trip right here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITqS6m4NvZua2QikT5xH7eg&si=pSZTeHZaGBPt6mXB

Florida Endless Summer is here, baby! Protecting your skin from the sun is so important. Check out this video where I rank seven different sunblocks (from worst to best) for 2024:
https://youtu.be/GQtWeh8zn6g?si=dKGHorMlJbhdFZvX

Hey! Did you know I livestream regularly in Jacksonville Beach, Florida? Here’s my Jax Beach playlist, right here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7IQPEtmraXz0KI3AX5JZzdCF&si=htvB3eAm6dW11NsT

Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier
http://www.thejaxpier.com/

1] Courtyard Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/jaxjv-courtyard-jacksonville-beach-oceanfront/overview/
2] Fairfield Inn & Suites Jacksonville Beach
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/jaxjb-fairfield-inn-and-suites-jacksonville-beach/overview/
3] Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/jaxjbhx-hampton-jacksonville-beach-oceanfront/
4] Margaritaville Beach Hotel - Jacksonville
https://www.margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-hotel-jacksonville-beach
5] Casa Marina Hotel & Restaurant
https://www.casamarinahotel.com/
6] Springhill Suites Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/jaxbs-springhill-suites-jacksonville-beach-oceanfront/overview/
7] Best Western Oceanfront
https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotels-in-jacksonville-beach/best-western-oceanfront/propertyCode.10279.html
8] Four Points By Sheraton Jacksonville Beachfront
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/jaxbf-four-points-jacksonville-beachfront/overview/

This was filmed LIVE on Saturday, July 27, 2024 in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

Video 455.
Livestream 160.

#walkingtour #jacksonvillebeach #florida

___

0 Comments

7/23/2024 0 Comments

297) Chattanooga, Tennessee - Evening in Downtown Chattanooga LIVE 7.23.24

Good evening from beautiful downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee! Tonight we will be exploring the historic downtown area of Chattanooga together. There’s a lot to see in this lovely and vibrant city, and I’m excited to be checking it out with y’all today. So let’s get out there and see this happening town.

Have you ever been to Chattanooga, Tennessee? Are you planning a future road trip with stops in Chattanooga? Let me know!

But either way, if this is your first time finding my Channel, or you’ve already been on many travels and Floridian adventures with me, definitely be sure to say hello! And I’ll see you somewhere under that beautiful sun.

Love,
Christine

P.S. Be sure to share out my YouTube Channel with anyone who wants to go on an adventure!

*Please note the start time for this live stream is approximate due to travel. Keep your notification bell ON if you’d like to catch this stream while LIVE! I will start early if I am able.*

Let’s take a summer road trip together!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITN8kLbt84W9-7tqYXWwRlK&si=hdI_Av0SXPn3y0SN

Check out my Florida Keys road trip right here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7ITqS6m4NvZua2QikT5xH7eg&si=pSZTeHZaGBPt6mXB

Florida Endless Summer is here, baby! Protecting your skin from the sun is so important. Check out this video where I rank seven different sunblocks (from worst to best) for 2024:
https://youtu.be/GQtWeh8zn6g?si=dKGHorMlJbhdFZvX

Hey! Did you know I livestream regularly in downtown Jacksonville, Florida? Check out my Jax, FL playlist right here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa7nooQvf7IShaHCmZoxotV080ibgVsIr&si=s-K8gLmE9Ib2grNM

Visit Chattanooga:
https://www.visitchattanooga.com/

Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge:
https://www.visitchattanooga.com/listing/walnut-street-pedestrian-bridge/2485/
https://statebystatetravel.com/chattanooga-walking-bridge/

This was filmed LIVE on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Video 453.
Livestream 158.

#walkingtour #chattanooga #tennessee

___

0 Comments

6/26/2024 0 Comments

278) Vilano Beach, Florida - Walking Tour! 6.26.24

Hey There Fellow Dreamers! And a very Happy Stitch 626 Day to all! Today we are searching for happiness!

Thanks so much for joining me LIVE in the charming coastal village of Vilano Beach, Florida. On this hot and inviting summer morning, we are taking a lovely walking tour through downtown Vilano Beach, checking out all the sites and sounds of the beach, as well as the streets. So grab your morning cup of joe - hot or iced - and let’s go do this.

Some of the locations we’ll be checking out include the beach, some area hotels, restaurants and coffee shops, the beautiful nature boardwalk, as well as the Vilano Beach Fishing Pier.

I do hope you enjoy exploring Vilano Beach with me today! Let me know what you think. Do you love Vilano Beach as much as I do? Have you been to Vilano Beach, or are you planning a trip here? I’d love to know. Drop me a chat or comment down below if you’re on the replay.

And I’ll see you in the next one… somewhere under that beautiful sun.

Love you,
Christine

P.S. Be sure to share out my YouTube Channel with anyone who wants to go on an adventure!

Vilano Beach Pavilion:
https://www.sjcfl.us/beach-services/beach-pavilions/
The Saint Augustine Beach House:
https://www.sabhonline.com/
OceanView Lodge:
https://www.oceanviewlodgeus.com/
Hampton Inn & Suites St. Augustine - Vilano Beach:
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/sgjvbhx-hampton-suites-st-augustine-vilano-beach/
Holiday Inn Express St. Augustine - Vilano Beach:
https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/st-augustine/ustst/hoteldetail
Hyatt Place St. Augustine / Vilano Beach:
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/florida/hyatt-place-st-augustine-vilano-beach/jaxza?src=adm_sem_crp_chico_crp_ppc_NAM-UnitedStates-FL-StAugustine-HP-JAXZA_google_Evergreen2022_e_hyatt%20place%20st.%20augustine%20vilano%20beach&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw1emzBhB8EiwAHwZZxV8SCT3sOM4zzXN39Ms2ZdhH70MADnZBY19EpCe7y-xotIsVR7E8aBoCzHAQAvD_BwE
Magic Beach Motel:
https://www.magicbeachmotel.com/?sjrncid=GA_21025654949&sjrnaid=GA_690975358044&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw1emzBhB8EiwAHwZZxS9fgaykkvggK5lNZWF4I449t7ra39y4ENeRpixYEhZJqONaSqTpNRoCYvMQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Vilano Town Center:
https://www.sjcfl.us/special-projects/vilano-beach-town-center/
Vilano Coffee Shop:
https://vilanocoffeeshop.com/
Vilano Beach Nature Boardwalk:
https://www.historiccoastculture.com/venue/vilano-beach-nature-boardwalk/
Vilano Grill 180:
https://180vilanogrill.com/
Beaches At Vilano:
https://beachesatvilano.com/
Beaches Water Tours:
https://beacheswatertours.com/book-now
Vilano Beach Fishing Pier:
https://www.visitstaugustine.com/thing-to-do/vilano-beach-pier-pavilion
Bluebird of Happiness Statue:
https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/bluebird-of-happiness-statue

This video was filmed LIVE on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 in Vilano Beach, Florida.

Video 435.
Livestream 140.

#vilanobeachpier #vilanobeach #florida

___

'Bluebird of Happiness' 2024. 6x8 watercolor on cold press watercolor paper.

0 Comments

6/25/2024 0 Comments

277) The Magic Beach Motel in Vilano Beach, Florida

Hey There Fellow Dreamers! Guess what?

Tomorrow, I’ll be taking you LIVE to Vilano Beach, Florida.

If you didn’t catch my last Vilano Beach livestream definitely go check it out. We certainly did some exploring that day! And I showed you the walking distance to the beach from six of the downtown area hotels, including:

1- The Saint Augustine Beach House
2- OceanView Lodge
3- Hampton Inn & Suites Vilano Beach - St. Augustine
4- Holiday Inn Express St. Augustine - Vilano Beach
5- Hyatt Place St. Augustine
6- Magic Beach Motel

And it’s that last hotel on the list - the Magic Beach Motel - which was the image for my thumbnail - that really caught my eye. The Magic Beach Motel was built back in 1951, and it’s so full of color and loaded with tropical charm. I painted a 6x8 inch watercolor of the old building because I was so fascinated with this one remaining retro-style hotel in town, sitting there surrounded by newer and larger style buildings throughout the rest of the little village.

Did you know the Magic Beach Motel was the set for a late 90’s television series? Called ‘Safe Harbor’- the story was set in the fictional town of Magic Beach, Florida!

I’d love to know your thoughts on older, seemingly outdated motels and hotels, vs. newer, larger hotel style accommodations when traveling. While newer facilities can offer every comfort of home when staying overnight on the road, or on a week long beach vacation, it’s also sad to see these older buildings being demolished one by one.

I do hope this little motel makes it in the face of progress. And I hope it remains a tiny little slice of retro beach life. If one ever wondered what life was like, and what going to the beach was like in the 1950’s, I look to this little building to imagine.

Maybe it was the exact same as going to the beach now? Sand pails, flip flops, sunblock, and umbrellas. Coolers and drinks. Beach bags, books to read, and chairs to sit on. Sandy feet on the return trip. All seemingly the same as today… just minus a smartphone, of course.

Maybe it was all the same, but maybe life was all a bit more carefree than everything is now. Who knows? But, maybe there was some magic involved as well.

Love you,
Christine

P.S. We’ll see you tomorrow in Vilano Beach - I love that little beach town so very much.

#vilanobeach #staugustine #florida

___

0 Comments

4/7/2024 0 Comments

227) Sunrise LIVE: Key West, Florida! Wake Up The Sun With Me in the Florida Keys! Hampton Inn exterior

Good Morning Fellow Dreamers!! Wake Up The Sun With Me!

Sunrise in Key West is at 7:13am today.

See you for the golden hour!

Love you,
Christine

This was filmed LIVE on Saturday, April 6, 2024 in Key West, Florida.

Video 349.
Livestream 102.

#sunrise #keywest #hamptoninn
___

All you need…

Is the keys.

Hey There Fellow Dreamers!!

Thanks for joining me this morning for a magnificently perfect Key West sunrise. We also briefly looked at the exterior grounds of the hotel and took a quick and tiny glance at the resort pool area while it was completely empty and the water was completely still. I did find out after the livestream that the pool gates do unlock and open at 8am for entry.

I love the golden hour, and just before that time as well. The third photo in this post is from our second floor balcony view at exactly 6:19am this morning from the Hampton Inn Key West. What a sight to see when the curtains are pulled open!

So if you didn’t catch the sunrise LIVE, the replay is linked in the comments down below.

Plans are set for the remainder of the day, and I will see you bright and early tomorrow morning for a LIVE walking tour of the historic downtown district on the dreamy island of Key West, baby!

Love you,
Christine

P.S. It has been recommended to me that I need to seek out and find a quite unique sandal shop in the historic district. They make all their completely custom sandals here on site (and only right here) in downtown Key West. Made to order - say no more, I have my mission for the day.

#sunrise #hamptoninn #keywest

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4/6/2024 0 Comments

226) Fabulous Pet Friendly Hotel In Key West Florida! Hampton Inn 2 Queen Bed Room Tour, Amenities, View!

Good Evening Fellow Dreamers!!

Join me for a non-alcoholic cocktail (mine’s a Pina Colada) LIVE in Key West, Florida, baby! I will be providing a detailed room tour of our accommodations in Key West, as well as listing all the amenities included with our stay.

The 4:45 pm scheduled start time for this live stream is approximate. I may go LIVE either before or after this time, depending upon many factors with my travels. So please have your notifications ON if you would like to catch this stream while LIVE!

Love you,
Christine

This was filmed LIVE on Friday, April 5, 2024 in Key West, Florida.

Video 348.
Livestream 101.

#hamptoninn #hilton #keywest

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Accommodation Information:
Hampton Inn Key West

Located at:
3755 South Roosevelt Boulevard
Key West, Florida 33040

For more information on booking the Hampton Inn Key West, visit their website at:
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/eywkkhx-hampton-key-west/

I will be discussing our specific room type and amenities as well as the hotel features, amenities, pool, food and beverage options, and location, as well as location in terms of distance from the Key West Airport, Duval Street and the Southernmost Point.

I am also happy to answer any questions you may have about our hotel room! And if you are watching on the replay, definitely drop me your question or comment down below - I read every comment and am happy to respond to the best of my ability.
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4/3/2024 0 Comments

224) 1st Street Jacksonville Beach: Walking Distance Between All Oceanfront Hotels And Downtown Jax Beach

Hey There Fellow Dreamers!!

Join me this spring morning for a walking tour of the closest street to the ocean in beautiful downtown Jacksonville Beach, Florida! Today we are walking down the length of 1st Street, specifically in the downtown area of Jax Beach. We’re heading North to South, and will be measuring specifically the walking distance between all the oceanfront hotels and the city center as we walk.

Here’s a list of the hotels we will be walking past on this route:
1- Courtyard By Marriott Jacksonville Beach Oceanfront
2- Fairfield Inn & Suites Jacksonville Beach
3- Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach/Oceanfront
4- Margaritaville Beach Hotel - Jacksonville
5- Casa Marina Hotel And Restaurant
6- Springhill Suites By Marriott Jacksonville Beach/Oceanfront
7- Best Western Oceanfront
8- Four Points By Sheraton Jacksonville Beachfront

Please note that for purposes of this walking tour I am showcasing only the hotels positioned immediately upon 1st Street today, and this listing of accommodations is accurate only as of this recording. Do keep in mind if you are currently searching for places to stay in Jax Beach that there are many other hotels just outside of this land area (one example being The Element) starting just a couple blocks inland. But for today we’re focusing only on the oceanfront strip of hotels downtown. I would be more than happy to show some other hotels in another video if you are interested.

I do believe that if you are coming to Jacksonville Beach for the very first time and are unfamiliar with the land area and pedestrian friendly locations, this walking tour may be very beneficial to you to help you gauge what is walkable to you or not. This video may help you determine if you want to keep the car at the hotel and walk, call an Uber, or even Beach Buggy, to get to where you want to be. And you’ll also see the public parking lots available, for free and to pay to park, all up and down 1st Street, if you do decide to drive. But either way, knowing the true walking distance from hotels, shops, and restaurants will be to your advantage, especially if you may be visiting here in the hotter months, when you are potentially dealing with excessive summer heat, and the element of downpouring summer rain.

And as an added bonus, there is something very much brand new along this route that I will be showing you as we walk, and I’m personally very excited for this addition to the downtown area!

Please do let me know if you enjoyed this walking tour, and if you found it beneficial in some manner, either for purposes of trip planning… or maybe just to see what Jacksonville Beach is like in the downtown area.

See you in the next one!

Love you,
Christine

This was filmed LIVE on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.
Video 345.
Livestream 99.

#jaxbeach #florida #jacksonvillebeach
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12/24/2023 0 Comments

187) A Cloudy, Windy Christmas Eve Stroll in Jacksonville Beach, Florida! Merry Vlogmas 2023 Day 24

Hey Holiday Dreamers!!

Merry Christmas Eve to one and all! Thank you for sharing in this very special day with me, and thank you for walking on the beach with me during this gloomy and blustery late afternoon.

This day truly is my absolute favorite day of the year. There is so much hope in this day. Hope in the anticipation of what tomorrow brings to us. And it is my sincere hope that by sharing in the joys of the holiday season with each other here, that some hope is spread further, to touch those whose hearts ache, and may be lonely, and may be extra sad. It has been my goal of doing Vlogmas this year - Christmas 2023 - that I may spread some laughter to someone who needs a laugh, and to fill your spirit with Holiday Cheer. And mostly, so that you can then, in turn, send out these, indeed, magical holiday experiences we are having with each other. To share them with others, and pass along good tidings out into the world. Let laughter and Good Cheer abound this Holiday, this Christmas, and into this New Year 2024. We all have our part to play to help make this world a better place. And each one of us can spread some goodness, and brighten up a dark path. No one has to go it alone in the dark. We are all here, and we can help each other along the route.

Merry Christmas Eve. I love you,

Christine

This was filmed LIVE on Sunday, December 24, 2023 in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. (Right by the shipwreck situated in front of the Jax Beach Hampton Inn).

Video 234.
Livestream 64.

#vlogmas #jaxbeach #christmaseve
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12/5/2023 0 Comments

168) St. Nicholas came to our hotel room! Hampton Inn 1 Bedroom Room Tour Amelia Island Vlogmas 2023

Hey Holiday Dreamers!! Let’s take a room tour of our one bedroom hotel suite, corner room, at the Hampton Inn located in Fernandina Beach, Florida! We’re here for a two night stay to visit a family member who is in town. I hope you enjoy me showing you around the room, and P.S. - there's a fireplace in our included!

I hope you are having a fabulous December and Holiday Season! It is my sincere hope that I can bring a little bit of silliness, laughter, Good Tidings and Joy to you during this festive and hectic time of year. I am doing Vlogmas each day December 1st through 25th, so - please share out my content with anyone you know in your life that you feel could use a little bit of Christmas Magic sent their way! I want you to know that you are special and loved. And, if you are feeling even a small amount of loneliness during this month, know that you are not alone in this world. I love you.

Christine

For further information on the Hampton Inn in Fernandina Beach, Florida, check out their website below:
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/aishshx-hampton-suites-amelia-island-historic-harbor-front/

The Hampton Inn on Amelia Island is located at:
19 South 2nd Street
Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034

This was filmed LIVE on Wednesday, December 5, 2023 in downtown Fernandina Beach, Florida on Amelia Island.

Livestream number 45.

#vlogmas #hamptoninn #ameliaisland
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2/2/2020 0 Comments

#46) Key Largo, Montego, Baby Why Don’t We Go?

I have always, always loved that song. The first time I stepped foot on Key Largo, I had that gosh darn song stuck in my head long after my short visit had concluded.

So why don’t we go to Key Largo, y’all?

Take my hand and right there we’ll be.

During my recent travels driving on down to the Florida Keys, we were lucky enough to have one, single, solitary, quick night to spend on the small island mentioned in that classic Beach Boys song.

I had been once in the past - to Key Largo - not Kokomo. However, my visit was merely for a short lunch break on our drive down toward that last Key on the map. You could say that my visit to Key Largo was a “If-You-Blink-You-Miss-It” type of visit.

So I obviously didn't have much time at all on the island to speak of… But during that short experience a few years back, Key Largo was so very intriguing enough to me that I knew we needed to come back. And I knew I wanted at least an overnight on the island.

I thought… If I couldn't stay forever, I’d at least need that.

So, we booked one night at the Hampton Inn Key Largo. Located at 102400 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037. Its location is right in the middle of it all; in the middle of everything that is Key Largo. If merely because Key Largo is so small that, to me, anywhere in Key Largo is everywhere in Key Largo.

We reserved a standard king with a balcony and pool view. Our total cost was zero dollars for this stay, as we used Hilton Honors points for the entire cost, taxes, all associated fees, etc.

And let me just say, if you are not a Hilton Honors member, and you love to travel, go get yourself a Hilton Honors Membership - pronto. Like - you know, stop reading this. And go sign up my dears.

Why? You may ask me…

For the simple reason that a completely free membership will bring things into your life like the example I just named above… A free night stay in Key Largo. No darn, yucky, gunchy, stringy, strings attached. Yep, it’s that easy.

And I NEVER pay for memberships that provide rewards. I believe in making my own money work FOR me, not the other way around. Once I’ve already earned the money, why do I need to spend it again to get the benefit of something. It’s kinda like how Suzy Orman taught me a very long time ago… You know. Like on a cold winter's day back in 1987, and the snow was falling, and I had to walk uphill to school both ways… with no buses even running then... she said to me,

“Don’t pay for memberships, my dear child.”

Well, scratch that. She might not have told me that personally. Actually, she might have never even said those exact words... But in my mind she did, and in my mind she taught me that. In my head I hear her voice when it comes to spending. Because she helped teach me about responsible finances, spending, and saving too. And I do think of Suzy Orman every time I think of memberships.

So folks, you see… Why pay to have your money work for you? When you can work your money yourself?

Here’s an example: I have the Disney Visa. But I don’t have the Platinum-Gold-Shiny-Heavy-Carved-Straight-From-A-Diamond-Mine-Disney-Visa that costs $50.00 a year plus. I have the free version. And all I have to do is swipe it and my money works for me on both ends.

And as I now tend to travel outside of the Disney gated kingdoms more so than within, I also have Hilton Honors, because it’s free as well. And just by swiping at the grocer each week, and for clothes and gas etc. etc. my money paid out is earning me stays. Stays that are easy to book, without blackouts and fine print that you would need a magnifying glass and a law degree to interpret. Get Hilton Honors, and honor yourself with vacations. Or any free hotel reward program - there are quite a few to choose from.

So there you have it. Swipe and earn, my friends. Swipe and earn.

Our room was just perfect for a Hampton Inn stay. I’m a huge fan of Hamptons all around and have been to countless of their locations.

I suppose I’d say that while I’ve never been to THE Hamptons, I’ve been to plenty of OTHER Hamptons.

I actually couldn’t count my stays in Hampton Inns if my life depended on it. But let’s just say that this hotel room was as nice as all the rest of those ‘other’ Hamptons or even more so. I’m kinda biased because of the view we had:

The room was clean. The bathroom was spacious. There were lots of towels and toiletries. But mostly there were the cups. The famous moustache cups.

Dear Hampton Inn:

Would you please make note to never discontinue your moustache cups? I love them. I need them in my life. They make me smile.

Thank you kindly,
Christine Pieper

I chose the plantains and water snack at check in - instead of Coke and cookies, for healthier snacking while traveling.

Making healthy decisions every day includes when I travel.

Nice shutters with lighting behind delicately lit the room. And there was an extra comfy chair in the corner, as well as a desk to work upon. For all that work one has to do while on vacation in Key Largo, you know.

And speaking of work, our Shetland Sheepdog was along for the journey. And prior to our arrival at this hotel, she had been working hard all day in the fields, rounding up the sheep of her namesake. So when we got to our room she was a very tired little doggie.

*Fine print = PET FRIENDLY!!

Yes, the Hampton Inn Key Largo is currently pet friendly. I say that with some real and serious fine print though. Always double check when making your reservation if you are bringing a pet along. Because with lots of those hotel stays in all brands of hotels, it has been my experience that pet policies change quite regularly.

It’s almost as if like… um, one day hotels are pet friendly and one day they are not. And then one day they are again, and one day they are not. Like - pet policies change as often as hotels change out the bedding. And that is not a good thing either way you slice it.

So I highly recommend always double-checking the pet policy before you travel. Even if it means picking up a cell phone and doing the actual manual labor of typing the hotel phone number into your phone and calling that hotel. Speak with someone at the front desk. Verify they accept pets. End phone call. Or get an email from the establishment confirming prior to travel. End of manual labor.

So the good news was that this hotel was pet friendly from booking through the end of our stay. But if you’d like to stay here, I do highly recommend a quick phone call to confirm while booking. Things change quickly in the hotel business. Very quickly.

A four paw doggie approved view.

So like I said, after our Shetland Sheepdog was done rounding up all those countless sheep throughout the day, she was very happy to be snuggled inside a hotel room that welcomed her species at their establishment, and she promptly fell right asleep looking out the big window, gazing toward that vast Key landscape. I’d say she had a diligent and good night's sleep that night. As good of a rest as we humans did, in fact.

The beds were very comfy. The Hampton’s of Hampton Inn are not cutting any corners and cheapening up the bedding, at all, and it is much appreciated and noticed by frequent travelers. The blankets are thick, I’m not too cold because they actually give you more than a thin sheet and something that is supposed to resemble a blanket. And the bed is soft. And I’m very partial about my own bed so I say that with extreme pickiness in mind and as a great compliment to the hotel.

The room was quiet. We were on the second floor balcony brought up by elevator, with a view the stuff dreams are made of. Needless to say, our little fluffy creature had a great time, and so did we.

Sneaky Sheltie.

Free breakfast of croissants and muffins and fruit and coffee the next morning before checkout. Tiki bar out back. And yes, my first very real, in Mother Nature, sighting of a manatee out the back door beach area of the hotel.

Steps from my room, manatees were just hanging around. I honestly thought seeing that was one of those lifetime experiences I will always cherish. As an animal lover, and lover of animals living out their lives in their natural habitat and not behind chains and fences and walls and tanks if at all possible, it was very special for me to see these magical creatures just doing what they do…. chillin out... in the Keys. Floating on by. A way of life so innocent and special and cherished, and I was very blessed to meet them.

A Dog’s Friend.

After rounding up the sheep.

So, overall our stay was fabulous. Even if I was paying the rack rate, I would definitely stay here again. I absolutely and 100% highly recommend the Hampton Inn Key Largo.

Whether you’re on your way to Montego, and just stopping in to say Hey along the way. Onward to Key West for more fun in the sun. Or making your entire vacation on the island of Key Largo itself. Definitely consider this hotel. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

So we swiped away
Till we got away.

We got there fast.
And then we took it slow.

I watched my tropical drink melting in my hands
As my furry baby barked at manatees while sitting in the sand.

Then we put out to sea, as we perfected our chemistry.
We said goodbye. With a great big sigh.
We headed on down to the Southernmost Point
And checked into our next cool joint.
Baby, why don't we go?~

Our new friend - chilling out in the water.

Have you been to Key Largo? Have you been to an island named in a song? I’d love to know - let me know in the comments down below:

Check out more of my Floridian Dreams right here:
13] 2 Pro’s & 2 Cons About My 2 Night Stay ~ In Celebration, FL
18] Sea & Sky Jax Weekend ~ Fun In The Florida Sun, Sea, Sky & Sand
22] Saturday On San Pablo Island
24] In Real Life ~ My First To A Southern Living Idea House
42] Where Does The Chicken Cross The Road?
44] Nothing Finer Than Coffee In The Keys ~ The Coffee Plantation Cafe

Author:

Christine Pieper is an Artist and Lifestyle Blogger, living, writing, and painting in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, with her hubby and eight year old puppy. She made a major life change in 2017 by uprooting and moving from Illinois to the Sunshine State, and has been living her best life in Florida since - detailing all her many and varied adventures living and traveling the Deep South to share with you. Her mission is to help you live YOUR best life - by getting out there, going for it, and making that big change you always dreamed of. Christine will inspire you to get over yourself, show up for yourself, and get out of your own way. The only one stopping you - is YOU.

To catch all of Christine’s Floridian Dreams, sign up your email below now.

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187) A Cloudy, Windy Christmas Eve Stroll in Jacksonville Beach, Florida! Merry Vlogmas 2023 Day 24

168) St. Nicholas came to our hotel room! Hampton Inn 1 Bedroom Room Tour Amelia Island Vlogmas 2023

#46) Key Largo, Montego, Baby Why Don’t We Go?

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