The SavvyBostonian

TRAVEL

Rannahotell Review: Staying at Pärnu’s Historic Beachfront Hotel in Winter

When most people think of Estonia, Tallinn usually steals the spotlight.

For me, however, my first visit to Estonia took me somewhere completely different: the charming seaside town of Pärnu.

I visited in late February while attending an invite-only conference held at the historic Rannahotell (hotels.com, booking.com, expedia). Although I didn’t have the chance to explore Pärnu as extensively as I would have liked, spending several days at one of Estonia’s most iconic hotels gave me a wonderful introduction to the country and plenty of reasons to come back.

If you’re considering staying at Rannahotell, here’s what my experience was like.

TRAVEL

5 Days in Taormina, Sicily: What to See, Eat & Do

Taormina was my first taste of Sicily, and what a dangerously charming introduction it was.

Perched above the Ionian Sea, with Mount Etna in the distance, Taormina is one of those places that feels almost too cinematic to be real. There are winding lanes, dramatic sea views, pistachio everything, aperitivo moments that feel stolen from a movie, and enough stairs to remind you that “vacation walking” is still cardio.

I spent five days in Taormina, staying at the Grand Hotel San Pietro, exploring the historic center, visiting the Ancient Theatre, walking down to Isola Bella, eating my body weight in pizza, pasta, granita and cannoli, and taking a food and wine tour through town. I also took a lovely day trip to visit the historic town of Castiglione di Sicilia, plus several Mt. Etna wineries, which was a fabulous way to spend the day.

Here’s what I loved, what I would do differently, and what I’d recommend if you’re planning a trip to Taormina.

RECIPES

Healthy Shrimp Stir-Fry with Quinoa (Easy 20 Minute Recipe)

This healthy shrimp stir-fry with quinoa is an easy 20-minute recipe that’s high in protein, packed with vegetables, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

I started making this recipe without really thinking about it, and now it’s become part of my regular rotation. It usually happens on a day when I want something healthy but still satisfying, I don’t feel like overcomplicating dinner, and I want it to come together quickly. I started making this after picking up one of those Marks & Spencer stir-fry veggie packs, and it just worked. It felt light, flavorful, and actually filling in a way that a lot of “healthy” meals are not.

What I love most about this shrimp stir-fry is how easy it is to adapt. If I already have quinoa cooked, it comes together in about 15 minutes. If not, it is still simple enough to make on a weeknight without feeling like a project.

LONDON, TRAVEL

Free Things to Do in London: A Scenic Walking Route Through 11 Iconic Landmarks

London is one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. It is also one of the easiest cities to explore on foot.

If you are looking for free things to do in London that combine history, architecture, nature, and iconic landmarks, this self-guided walking route is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the city.

This scenic walk begins in Hyde Park and winds its way through royal parks, historic parade grounds, and along the River Thames, finishing at Tower Bridge. It covers some of London’s most famous landmarks while also revealing quieter, more reflective corners of the city.

Lace up your walking shoes. This is a long one, and it is absolutely worth it.

BEAUTY, FAB FINDS

5 Clean Skincare Products I Use Every Morning (Yuka Approved)

I love skincare. I always have.

I love the ritual of it, the science behind it, the way great skin makes you feel confident before you have even applied a stitch of makeup. I love knowing that what I am putting on my face is not only effective, but thoughtfully formulated.

Over the past year, I have become far more ingredient-conscious. I run everything through the Yuka app. I read labels. I care about clinical backing. I want products that help me age gracefully, protect my skin barrier, and genuinely improve texture and tone over time.

Because I do not gatekeep and I firmly believe sharing is caring, today I am walking you through the five products I use every single morning.

My nighttime routine is different. This one is designed for radiance, hydration, protection, and creating a smooth, healthy base that pairs beautifully with makeup.

Here is exactly what I use and why.

Older Posts