I live for the thrill of discovery made possible by travel. Whether it’s finding a favorite new bistro in a familiar city like Paris or browsing antique shops in Cashiers, North Carolina, I find endless inspiration, joy, and creative renewal every time I set out for adventure. And, while I’ll always advocate for solo travel for its way of forcing immersion and greater awareness, over the past year, my favorite excursions have been with my longest-serving travel companion, my mom. While traveling with Pam is not without some stress (she hates airports), and I (evidently) drive too fast on French backroads, overall, we are compatible travel partners, both loving slow travel focused on lots of walking, conversing with locals, and flexible (or no) itineraries. Oh, and plenty of coffee and food breaks.
It had been over a decade since we’d visited High Hampton. A beloved retreat for so many Birmingham families, we were excited to spend a brisk weekend in February discovering the culinary delights and natural beauty of Jackson County and experiencing the relaxed luxury of High Hampton, which underwent a stunning and well-documented renovation completed in 2021.
We opted to stay in the generously proportioned two-bedroom, two-bathroom Mayapple Cottage, conveniently located steps from the Inn. With a cozy living room, fireplace, and my own soaking tub, it would have been entirely possible not to leave the cottage, much less the resort. The mix of antiques and cheery textiles blend harmoniously with the quirks of the old architecture–an interior recipe that immediately settles and comforts weary travelers.
The food and beverage scene did not disappoint. With an ever-changing menu, incredibly gracious staff, and the most endearing and knowledgeable sommelier I’ve ever encountered, our meals at High Hampton were the highlight of the trip. Opting for the wine pairing had me buzzily taking notes on esoteric varietals, and, as wine often does, it led to conversations around travel, international relations, and languages.
Between hiking the grounds and exploring some of the new construction at High Hampton, we made our way into the quaint town of Cashiers. What a delight to happen upon Josephine’s Emporium, the outpost of Josephine McDonough, my Antiques at the Garden friend and exceptionally knowledgeable dealer of antique French pochoirs, maps, and botanical prints. Within the rambling shop are a handful of antique dealers and exhibits by local artists. We left having discovered new artists and new friends–the absolute joy of travel.
Additional weekend highlights were daily lattes at Buck’s Coffee, a local brew at Whiteside Brewing Company, dinner at The Orchard, and pizza at Slabtown. Always on the hunt for art of all mediums, we were delighted to visit Mountain Mist Gallery. Painter David Berger and his wife Julie, a painter and jeweler, have curated an excellent gallery with works echoing the natural surroundings of Jackson County. We left with plenty of earthy-hued Butterfield Pottery for ourselves and family members.
After a quick jaunt into Highlands and more mountain gazing, it was time to drive back to Birmingham–refreshed, relaxed, and with memories of time spent with mom, unburdened by the distractions of everyday life.
Summer in Paris
The Hotel du Sentier is a newer hotel in the very central 2nd arrondissement of Paris. As someone who has lived and worked in Paris and is very familiar with the city, I can say unequivocally that this was the friendliest service I’ve experienced in this favorite city of mine. Rooms were spacious and serene, owing to the location adjacent to a pedestrian mall. Locals congregate daily at the hotel’s outdoor bistro tables…it’s a very Parisian scene.
We enjoy the sun on Cairo Square, with its trees (soap trees) and public benches, and we observe the world going by while drinking a glass of natural wine. Sleeping in because breakfast is served at any time--how decadent, how French.
Strolling aimlessly through St. Germaine, buying taxidermy at Deyrolle, and discovering a new shop of women-created artisanal products, Rue de Commerce.
