Yes, I am falling

Even though summer is my one true love, I can’t deny the beauty of fall. Autumn’s palette is undeniably cozy, which makes all my favorite fall festivities even more enjoyable. But the best part of partaking in these activities is my company - my closest friends and family. It truly is the season to be grateful.

First (and most important), plan your weekends wisely - with Airbnb! Getaways cost money, but they don’t have to be expensive. With Airbnb, in a few clicks (desktop or mobile app) you can book a place for wherever and whenever you’d like. a home for you on Airbnb.

Here are a couple tips for renting through the site:
-Book in advance! It’s when you’ll get the best deals. However, there are usually places for last minute trips.
-Add your ID to your profile to save time while booking.
-Use the filters to find exactly what you’re looking for. I always check “entire home,” because I like my privacy. You can also put in your price range as well.
-Read the reviews! I try to book places that have either a Super Host or a lot of 5 star reviews.
-Check the cancellation policies. If there’s a chance you might cancel, you probably shouldn’t book a place with a strict policy.

So many good dreams on this comfy king, located in Riverhead, Long Island.

I have stayed in Airbnb homes while traveling around the states as well as abroad. Hosts have always been communicative and friendly and their homes welcoming. Living like a local is one of my favorite parts of traveling.

My favorite FAVORITE part of fall: Wine Tasting. I’m Italian, so obviously I love wine. But there’s something about admiring the changing leaves while sipping a flight. Long Island Wine Country is the perfect place to spend a weekend away. And don’t just stop at one, vineyards are all over the place so it’s easy to hop from winery to winery.

Top of my Long Island Wine Country list: Paumanok Vineyards.

Paumanok Vineyards is one of my tops. Of course the wine is delicious, but the place itself is absolutely gorgeous. The rustic views are breathtaking, and you can take yourself on a tour around the grounds with a glass in hand.

Paumanok Vineyards, so picturesque. Take yourself on a tour, with a glass of wine in hand, around the grounds and grapes.

Sparkling Pointe Winery, where you can get all the sparkling wines and paired chocolates you want.

Jamesport Vineyards is one of the oldest wineries and (I think) has some of the best wines in Long Island!

Wine tasting costs anywhere from $10-$30, plus more if you’d like a glass of your favorite sip. You decide how much you want to spend (and drink)!

What is fall without apple picking?! Exactly, nothing. It’s a must-do for the season. Long Island is full of orchards.

Love me a good macintosh. Thanks to Linvilla Orchards.

You pay per pound at most orchards. Figure out how much you need to make that apple pie and get picking!

Pumpkins and beer and pumpkin beer! I love me a good Oktoberfest. And lucky for us, there are festivals all over the city during autumn. And there’s so much to do - music, food & drink, pumpkin patches, crafts for kids, corn mazes. There’s something for the whole family.

Give me a pumpkin beer, and I’ll be happy. The Queens Botanical Garden has lots to offer, including their Harvest Fest.

This Harvest Fest was completely free at Queens Botanical Garden. Beer, pumpkins, and food are available for purchase.

Growing up in Pennsylvania had its perks - like Ott’s Exotic Plants. A short 15 minute drive away from my parents, Ott’s is the perfect place to spend an autumn day. Which is why I head back every year to visit.

There is a lot to explore at Ott’s:
-a greenhouse of exotic plants, complete with a waterfall and koi pond
-outdoor and indoor home decor store
-Mountain of Mums

The biggest attraction, and my personal favorite, is the Mountain of Mums, with a cool cave through the mountain and up to the top. There’s a beautiful view of the surrounding area and mums that cover the mountain and reach up to the sky.

Another bonus: there are a bunch of cute kitties running around the grounds. Can’t say no to those cuddles!

Ott’s is a free attraction to roam. Flowers, plants, and decor are for purchase, if you’re so inclined.