We did it. We packed up our lives in Miami, tucked everything away into storage, and hit the road in our dream car with just our suitcases, a sense of adventure, and each other. For a little over two weeks, we lived on the road, jumping from city to city up and down the eastern coast of the United States, making memories, and soaking in the magic of each stop. Here’s a peek into our whirlwind journey: The MegBert Roadtrip.
Stop 1: Broward County, FL
Just after a full day of moving our belongings into two storage units, we officially left Miami-Dade behind and made our way to Broward County, where we stayed with Albert’s grandmother for a night. It was comforting to begin our road trip with family—and I got to eat at Naked Farmer, my favorite farm-to-table fast casual spot. Their seasonal ingredients and simple, nourishing meals hit the spot every time. Fun fact: I eat a family sized grass fed steak on my own. They have so many amazing side dishes and do not use any seed oils whatsoever. It was a special and memorable time.
Stop 2: Orlando, FL
Early in the morning, we made our way to the Southwest Ranches Farmers Market to get goodies for the road. While there, I got the chance to say hi (and goodbye) to my people at the farmers market, including my friends at Domaselo, Haute Coffee, as well as the SWR Farmers Market. From there, we made our way to Orlando, FL.
We spent two nights in Disney staying in a 3-bedroom treehouse villa at the Saratoga Springs Resort, where we met up with Albert’s mom, stepdad, siblings, and cousins. Our first night was unforgettable—watching the Final Four game with the University of Florida pulling off a big win that took them to the NCAA Finals! Gator pride was alive and well.
The next day was Disney VIP style. For those wondering—a Disney World VIP Tour is a true bucket-list experience. You’re paired with a private guide who picks you up, walks you straight to the front of every line, and custom-curates your day. No waiting, no stress—just pure Disney magic. We park-hopped, rode all the classics, and didn’t even break a sweat. Worth. Every. Penny.
Stop 3: Gainesville, FL – Gator Country
The next morning, we made our way to Gainesville, FL. We stayed at the beautiful Hotel Eleo at the University of Florida, where we had a spacious suite overlooking campus. Albert took me on a tour of his college stomping grounds, sharing memories and showing me where his old club used to be—so cool seeing him light up reminiscing about that time.
We also explored the Catholic Community on campus, which is alive and well – Gator Catholics is a real thing, and we had the opportunity to have adoration (it was packed) in the St Augustine church on campus prior to the big game that evening.
That night, we watched the NCAA Finals with Nicole, my sister in law, and yes—the Gators won! It was UNBELIEVABLE the way they won – such a close game where they were neck and neck the entire time. Albert and Nicole ran to campus to celebrate while I stayed back (I wasn’t feeling 100%), but the energy was electric even from the hotel room.
It was pretty amazing that in the 12 years Albert and I have been together, he has been to my alma mater Villanova multiple times, but I had never been to UF… and the first time we went together was the night they won the NCAA National Championship! I will never forget it.
Stop 4: Madison, GA
The following morning, we got on the road to go to Madison, GA, which is about an hour and a half outside of Atlanta (and found a Buc-ee’s along the way which is an absolute must see).
We stayed at The Farmhouse Inn for 2 nights, nestled on a charming farm where I got to feed goats, horses, and chickens. Each morning, we had farm-fresh eggs, and without Wi-Fi, we experienced a semi-unplugged little reset. Peaceful. Slow. Soulful. The town is absolutely stunning and historic, and they value organic food.
Stop 5: Atlanta, GA
Atlanta was all about friends who are family and familiarity. It felt so much like home. We stayed with my dear friend Sarah at her beautiful home and made our rounds at all our favorite ATL spots—Bones steakhouse, Sarah’s private membership club, tried a new Persian restaurant called Delbar, and the Peachtree Saturday Farmers Market, which was UNREAL.
My haul from the farmers market included the most incredible biltong I’ve ever had, raw milk, bone broth, ghee, eggs, organic pasta, sourdough bread and English muffins, and Georgia peach jams.
I also had the opportunity to meet up with a friend from college whom I hadn’t seen in over a decade, and meet a new friend who I have been friends with online for years. This stop felt like a warm hug.
Stop 6: Greenville, SC
We were in Greenville for just an hour, but it was enough to squeeze in a quick visit with family just outside the city. A short and sweet stop that reminded us how special it is to see familiar faces along the way.
Stop 7: Charlotte/Ballantyne, NC
We had a VERY BRIEF stay at The Ballantyne Hotel, a luxurious property just outside Charlotte. The area is known for its peaceful, upscale vibe—perfectly manicured neighborhoods, great food, and a relaxed Southern charm that made us want to stay longer. We ordered steak bowls from this place called Flower Child. Given we were just passing through, we didn’t get to explore much.
Stop 8: Richmond, VA
Richmond was a quick one—three hours, a few calls taken from a cute local coffee shop, and a short stroll through the historic area. We didn’t stay long, but it gave us a taste of the city’s rich charm and deep American roots as we made our way to Washington DC.
Stop 9: Washington, D.C.
We spent 2 nights at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington D.C., where we were upgraded to a stunning suite—and it was everything. I was having a tough time emotionally due to some work and life things, but Albert stepped in and made it better with warm hugs, loving words, and the best room service of my life on the first evening we were there.
We had the time in the morning to take a long walk on the National Mall and view the Rothko exhibit at the National Gallery of Art. We also caught the tailend of the cherry blossom season and it was beautiful.
The second evening we were there, we met up with my DEAR friend from college and her husband for dinner at The Occidental. It was an incredible meal filled with great memories.
D.C. gave us a little rest and a whole lot of love, which I definitely needed.
Stop 10: New York, NY
We ended our road trip in New York, spending Holy Week with my parents and Ceili. It was the perfect full-circle moment—family, tradition, great meals, and quality time together before embarking on the next chapter.
Now, after quite an adventure of a road trip, off to the United Arab Emirates we go—ready for what’s next. The MegBert Roadtrip will forever be one of those things we look back on with fond memories: a little chaotic, a lot meaningful, and beautifully ours.
