by Heidi Reid | Aug 29, 2023 | Buzz, September 2023
The journey of 4,000-plus miles begins with this extra step.
Passports are no longer the gold standard for that European vacation you bucket listed. Starting early 2024, jet-setting Americans will lose one of the 184 visa-free destinations worldwide as the EU launches its European Travel Information and Authorization System regulations, requiring all U.S. passport holders to receive approval before entering.
For those who already have plans in the works for a European summer next year, don’t panic. The application doesn’t include the usual stress and strain of a normal visa application—just a quick online form with approval delivered by mail. Travel authorization will be granted to most applicants within an hour, about a third of the time a trip to a government-run establishment usually requires (looking at you, DMV).
Once approved, travelers are authorized for multiple trips across the pond over the course of three years, or until their passport expires. Note, the amount of time visitors can stay in Europe isn’t changing. After 90 days, you don’t have to go home—but you can’t stay there. A different visa is required for
longer trips.
While the extra step may cause some stress ahead of your European vacation, keep in mind the application process is not unlike the Electronic System for Travel Authorization program, required for any visitors headed to the U.S. The goal of both systems is to track visitors heading in and out and ensure a safer travel environment.
And, ultimately, what’s a few more minutes of your time for a highly anticipated cross-continental pond jump?! Pack your bags! etias.com
- COST: 7 euro (about $8 USD)
- WHEN: Early 2024, with a 180-day grace period after the program begins
- WHERE: etias.com
- WHO: All U.S. travelers, regardless of age
- WHAT YOU’LL NEED
A valid passport, your current address, citizenship status, sex, preferred gender, dual citizenship status, date of birth, final destination member state, educational and occupational background
- REQUIRED FOR: Flying to any of the 27 countries in the Schengen Area
by Heidi Reid | Aug 29, 2023 | Do, September 2023
Where to wine and dine outside Raleigh this September
Nikos
DURHAM
No passport? No problem. Take your senses on a trip to Greece via a visit to Giorgios Bakatsias’ 16th restaurant (!). Located in Brightleaf Square, the reimagined spot—originally owned by Bakatsias 20+ years ago as Nikos Greek Taverna—operates with a mission of taking “friends to strangers.” Seasoned chef Douglas Rodriguez dishes out an array of classic Grecian fare with a twist centered around fresh seafood—from octopus carpaccio and branzino to mint ravioli, Greek meatballs and saffron rice pudding. Pro tip: Order a specialty cocktail (we rec one with the artistic ice!) to go with your meal, best enjoyed out on the gorg patio. Opa! nikosdurham.com
The Albatross
CARY
The grass is always greener at the newest sip spot in town! Swing by for a drink at this new Downtown Cary bar—raising the par by bringing the golf course to you. Find virtual golf simulators and a stock of equipment fit for both aspiring pros and those simply looking to shoot the wind. And after working up an appetite, fuel up on hot dogs and oodles of other eats without having to make the trek back to the tee shop. Fore! thealbatrossnc.com
Bee Sweet Creamery
APEX
Calling all soft-serve lovers! This newly opened Apex creamery is all the buzz. From the creators of Mama Bird’s Ice Cream, the sweet new experience serves up scoops of the nostalgic dairy dessert. … And whether you’re in the mood for classic chocolate or vanilla, or care to sample one of the imaginative weekly flavors (think coffee and salted caramel), the welcoming environment and inspiring mission are sure to make you melt. Bonus: Sprinkles are always a free-bee! beesweetcreamery.com
Smashed Burgers & Cocktail
HOLLY SPRINGS
Smashed it! At this new smashburger joint, you’ll find every flair imaginable on the classic burger—from a Vietnamese banh mi smashburger to a patty smothered in mac and cheese (um, say no more). Wash it all down with a passion fruit margarita or pineapple Aperol daiquiri at the fully stocked bar, or pop a squat out on one of the two (!) patios. P.S. Don’t sleep on brunch either! Cheesin’ yet? smashednc.com
LaDiDa Wine Bar & Bottle Shop
CLAYTON
Hey, syrah sisters and malbec masters! Whether you’re looking to wine down with a glass or two (or three, no judgment) with your pals or would rather hunker down at home with a bottle and a rom-com, this modern yet cozy bottle shop in Downtown Clayton has ya covered. With a seemingly limitless selection of vinos, in addition to local brews, ciders and vermouth—plus live events and deals every weekend (mimosas, please!)—this homey bar has a plethora of options worth uncorking. ladidanc.com
by Heidi Reid | Aug 29, 2023 | September 2023, Stuff
Your favorite ’90s trends are back and better than ever.
Fashion is totally buggin’ this fall. Find influencers and runway models alike throwing it back 30 years and donning silky satin dresses, Mary Jane stompers and oversize flowers (we see you, Chanel). To boot, a slew of celebrity style icons (see: Kate Moss, Claudia Schiffer, Julia Roberts and other leading ladies of the ’90s) are even rocking ’fits better than the sitcom TV reboots (!). Whether you lived through the decade or wished you did, the ’90s revolutionized fashion—and, clearly, continues to have an impact on styles today. Here, we delve into the trends making a comeback and where to find them.
Tiny Sunglasses
This style’s so bright we gotta wear shades! Summon your inner Rachel Green by parking your specs on the very end of your nose with a dark-hued outfit to match. Slay!
Shop the Trend: Warby Parker, North Hills
Floral Bucket Hat
Floral and funky? It’s no fashion flop. Missy Elliott has always had supa dupa fly fashion, but her iconic bucket hat is likely her most popular accessory to revive.
Shop the Trend: Edge of Urge
Wide-Leg Jeans
Calling all skinny-jeans wearers! This just in: Trendy jeans are only getting wider (sorry ’bout it). Commit to the ’90s look by grabbing a pair a bit too long and pairing with chunky kicks—you’ll be totally trippin’ in the best way.
Shop the Trend: Uniquities
Satin Slip Dress
It’s giving Cher a la Clueless. This light and easy dress can be glammed up with heels, or channel street-style swagger with a pair of sneaks. We love the versatility!
Shop the Trend: Voda Boutique
Platform Mary Janes
Take your style to new heights—literally—via chunky platform heels. Level up your look even further by pairing with fun tights for work or a night out, or wear over frilly crew socks for that kitschy Full House look.
Shop the trend: Voda Boutique
Checkered Claw Clip
Effortless updo? Check! This claw clip was made for making a statement without the hassle and hairspray. So fresh, so fly!
Shop the trend: Edge of Urge
Flare Capri Pants
Add some, ahem, “flare” to your ’fit and pair these capris with a formfitting tee and a pair of platform flip-flops—Sarah Jessica Parker would be beyond proud. Bonus: Flares are a must-have transitional piece as the weather gets cooler.
Shop the Trend: C.T. Weekends
Flower Choker
Everyone from Kendall Jenner to Matilda Djerf to Harry Styles is hopping on this whimsical trend feat. chokers flaunting every size of flower—from petite blossoms to enormous blooms. The bigger the flower, the bigger the statement!
Shop the Trend: Urban Outfitters
Fanny Packs
The pack is back! This hip trend is making quirky cute again… but this time with a twist. Wear the OG “fanny pack” diagonally around your body for ultimate convenience—and to avoid looking like a child.
Shop the trend: Deco
Biker Shorts
No, you don’t need to be a biker to wear biker shorts. The trend—originally made famous by forever fashion muse Princess Diana—is just as appropriate for lounging in an oversize sweater as it is paired with a blazer. Lady Di approved!
Shop the Trend: Athleta
by Heidi Reid | Aug 29, 2023 | September 2023, Stuff
Head into fall with a new ’fit, home decor or comedy album obsession.
Trade traditional fashion for funky pieces and beat the bell-bottoms blues with bold attire from Beatniks—aka the brainchild of Raleighite/fashion guru Luke Suggs—dropping its curated street-style selects in Raleigh Iron Works this fall. @beatniksshop
Idyllic venue no longer a figment. Enter Sassool Cafe’s FigMint Farms, serving a serene, intimate Apex setting perf for parties, photoshoots and beyond via reno’d shelter, two walkable pine forests, a fishing pond and dock, picnic tables, and a mint garden, natch—with Sassool catering upon request. @sassoolcafe
Feather your nest with flair. … Vintage home decor store The Fab Foo has moved to a new home on Wade Avenue. Find colorful interior adornments, midcentury modern furnishings and other fresh finds. How fab! @thefabfoo
Be the conversation piece via statement jewelry from Uli Amsterdam and meet eponymous textile accessory pioneer Uli Rapp at C.T. Weekends’ trunk show Sept. 22. @ulirapp; @ctweekends
Look good, feel good. Bringin’ healing vibes to DTR is fitness recovery center ReFit Therapy touting taking care of your beautiful bod—whether you’re a bodybuilder, marathon runner, stay-at-home mom or anyone in between. @refittherapy
Life’s too short to wear boring clothes—or clothes that don’t fit. Dress to impress in custom garb (e.g., suits, skirts) courtesy of Limatus Bespoke, bowing in City Market this fall. @limatusbespoke
by Heidi Reid | Aug 29, 2023 | Do, September 2023
Take a load off in Travelers Rest, South Carolina
Take a cue from the Foo Fighters and “rest now” in this charming little town serving up ample activities, restaurants and bars for those looking to escape the city for a weekend. Named for its natural amenities and proximity to a roster of rewarding outdoor recreation areas, Travelers Rest touts an artsy vibe, historic charisma, and a hospitable and friendly atmosphere. Beyond the many beautiful outdoor attractions, plenty of leisurely choices abound for those looking to kick back and relax.
To boot, the “Gateway to the Foothills” is only a short 20-minute drive from Greenville, making it all the more attractive to those who crave a little more activity on their vacay. So whether it’s your final destination or just a stop along the way, Travelers Rest offers multiple ways to take a load off—and will surely have you traveling back for more. Here, your restful itinerary for SC’s “Coolest Small Town.”
DO
Swamp Rabbit Trail
Hop (or bike!) down this 22-mile “bunny” trail that traverses the Reedy River and passes through several parks and former railroad corridors to connect Travelers Rest with Greenville. Cycologists in the mood for a rougher ride can hit one of the natural surface trails for some bumps and jumps, while more easygoing roamers can find pit stops, refreshments, snacks and shopping just off the path. Hoppy trails, indeed! greenvillesc.gov
Table Rock State Park
Between its two lakes (totaling 100+ acres!), extensive trail system and spectacular vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this SC state park brings a lot to the, well, table. Rough it in a tent on one of the 94 campsites, or stick to glamping in one of the furnished, heated and air-conditioned cabins. Just be sure to take a quick dip in crystal-clear Pinnacle Lake—and do go chasing waterfalls on the Carrick Creek Loop. southcarolinaparks.com
Travelers Rest Farmers Market
Greenville County’s largest open-air market is a vibe. Come to stock your reusable tote bags with local fruits and veggies, artisan breads, meats, flowers, and other goodies. Stay for the live tunes, cooking demos, gardening classes, free yoga and more. #TheMoreYouGrow travelersrestfarmersmarket.com
EAT
Pink Mama’s Ice Cream
I scream, you scream, we all scream for a chilly treat just a hop away from the Swamp Rabbit Trail! The vibrant pink-hued parlor will be the cherry on top of your hike or bike ride. Stay cool with a classic sundae or get funky with flavors like Lavender White Chocolate and Pink Motherload. Pro tip: Opt for a legendary original waffle cone, baked fresh daily. pinkmamasicecream.com
Farmhouse Tacos
It doesn’t have to be Tuesday to grab some grub at this Tex-Mex restaurant featuring handcrafted fare “made with love”—and with locally sourced ingredients, natch. And since shopping is cardio, its downtown digs make the casual eatery the perf pit stop for fuel—aka a marg and some chips and dip after a day spent shopping around Main Street. farmhousetacos.com
Topsoil Kitchen & Market
For those with a taste for top-notch dining, look no further than this farm-to-table bistro highlighting almost-too-pretty-to-eat creations cooked up by 2020 James Beard semifinalist chef Adam Cooke. Inspired by ingredients from local farmers and vendors (NTM the resto’s own nearby 16-acre farm), the rotating menu serves up selects for all, including vegan and gluten-free. topsoilrestaurant.com
DRINK
Tandem Crêperie & Coffeehouse
Cut the crepe and chow down on this French delicacy paired with a delicious and ethically sourced hot cuppa—or a handcrafted soda, kombucha or freshly squeezed OJ—for brunch at this cozy coffeehouse. You’ll relish in both the modern, intimate farmhouse atmosphere, as well as the quick eats—think sweet and savory crepes (obv), granola, and waffles. Bon appétit! tandemcc.com
Swamp Rabbit Brewery & Taproom
In the mood for some hops? “Good people, good beer” found. This local stop will have you jumping for joy with its laid-back atmosphere, wide variety of brews on tap and enticing events (think music bingo, trivia and food trucks). theswamprabbitbrewery.com
Whistle Stop at the American Cafe
All aboard this diner at the former Travelers Rest whistle stop—where “the past is always present.” The locomotive-inspired interior features themed antiques, including a jukebox and an electric train that chugs around the ceiling (!). And don’t sleep on the Southern specialties—from catfish to shrimp and grits to fried green tomatoes. whistlestopattheamericancafe.com
STAY
The Forestry House
Branch out via this outdoor enthusiast’s home away from home. Perched in the trees of SC (we’re talking literally in the trees), this Airbnb treehouse boasts two patios, a fire pit and an outdoor shower, all backdropped with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Although only minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown, this canopy cabin is completely secluded on the 16-acre property. Don’t forget to wave hello to resident bear Billy! airbnb.com
Hotel Domestique
Catch some Z’s—and some wheelies—at world-renowned cyclist and Tour de France winner George Hincapie’s hotel haven. Inspired by his travels across the pond, the worldly yet cozy boutique inn touts elevated European hospitality, fare, adventure and rest. And hit the town on two wheels via the inn’s bike rental, mountain biking and cycling guide ops. hoteldomestique.com
The Station
Stationed just steps away from the Swamp Rabbit Trail, these modern and spacious cottages are perfect for travelers seeking hotel amenities-meets-private home vibe. Whether you’re in need of a day on the trail or a drink on the patio, these personal sanctuaries deliver. compohotels.com
