As if the 100 degree weather wasn’t obvious enough, it appears (and feels) as though summer has officially arrived. So what’s a college girl to do without her go-to university’s gym on hand? Exercise outside!

Whether you’re completing an internship in NYC or living back at your parents’ place, there is always something active to do outdoors. Growing up and residing in a place that has been a top 10 contender of America’s most fit cities, I have been fortunate enough to dip my feet into many different outdoor workouts.

Check out my list of the best outdoor workouts during the summer and try one for yourself!

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It’s strange, but for some reason spending 45 minutes on the elliptical feels unnatural when the weather starts warming up. It’s like lying in a tanning bed when it’s 80 degrees and sunny outside.

Clearly, I’ve already grown tired of my normal workout routine for the year.

The solution? Exploring outdoor activities that will provide me with a sense of adventure as I tone up. Now you may be wondering, “Hmm, is there really anything fun out there that will burn lots of calories?” I felt the same. But the reality is, YES, YOU ABSOLUTELY CAN! Check out these options below. Read More »

With this being the last week of classes (THANK GOD), I can now spend the time I was spending in the library for more useful things. Like daydreaming about summer time. When it’s 80 degrees and sunny outside my classroom, can you blame me?

But more than summer dresses, sandals and sun tans, with summer comes great opportunities for more bonding time, and more creative bonding time, with the BF.

Looking for something new to do with the boyf?  Here you are my favorite summer time date ideas!

1. Kayaking – I love, love, LOVE kayaking. I love being in the water, but have never been a really strong swimmer so this works out really well for me. You can even take the cuteness up a level and go canoeing. He can row while you read poetry from under your parasol. (Sorry, this is what I think of when I hear of a couple in a canoe). But kayaking really is a cheap activity that’s way more fun to do with a partner than alone.

2. Bike rides – I’m particularly excited about this one because Matt and I just bought bikes and went for our first bike ride last night! You can ride to yogurt shops or snow cone stands or whatever you want for a treat, then pedal your way back home. Or go on a fun adventure off the beaten path (literally). Read More »

It’s strange, but for some reason spending 45 minutes on the elliptical feels unnatural this time of year. It’s like lying in a tanning bed when you it’s 80 degrees and sunny outside.

Clearly I’ve slightly, OK totally, abandoned my usual workout routine.

The solution? Exploring outdoor activities that will provide me with a sense of adventure as I tone up. Now you may be wondering, “Hmm, is there really anything fun out there that will burn lots of calories?” I felt the same. But the reality is, YES, YOU ABSOLUTELY CAN! Check out these options below.  Read More »

Did you know the Olympics start tonight?

I can’t imagine how you would have any idea. It’s not like there has been a billion commercials/news stories/a total media frenzy surrounding the event.

I guess I am sorta excited; lord knows the Summer games are far more exciting than the random ice events (bobsledding? curling?) of the Winter Olympics. I love watching the gymnastics and diving – those people are amazing. Oh, and of course swimming is super exciting, what with Michael Phelps – a fellow Wolverine – dominating the pool.

But the rest is just sorta boring. Why would I care if the U.S. had the best fencers? And who really feels pride in knowing their country can row the fastest? What do the Olympics have to offer that is worth getting out of the pool early to watch?

How about hot guys?

I know, I know; the Olympics are all about strength, agility and lots of hard work. They are about bringing the world together in a little “friendly” competition. They are about finding the world’s best athletes and celebrating them. But, come on, what’s wrong with watching for a little eye candy?

So, I scoured the internet to find the hottest US athletes. Something that I, as an American Woman, can be proud of. If you couldn’t think of a reason to watch the games, I found you 12. Grab some snacks and settle in; you are not gonna want to miss a thing. Read More »

So we are finally in the dog days of summer (which I realized when I went for a run at noon). Some of us are working, going to school, or schlepping around interning. Others are laying by the pool sipping sangria (*jealous*). But, I think we can all agree that a break of any kind is welcome. Especially when that break is a trip to somewhere cool, offbeat and–the best part– cheap. So pack your favorite flip flops, airy sundress and camera and head somewhere, anywhere but here. Might I suggest any of these destinations:

Isla de Vieques, Puerto Rico.

This 21 by 5 mile island is referred to asIsla Nena by residents, loosely translating into “virgin island”. Located only 6 miles off Puerto Rico’s coast, it is a hotbed of natural beauty and tropical activities. You fly onto the island after flying into San Juan, Puerto Rico, so be prepared with a your iPod, a magazine, eye mask or Valium–whatever it takes to get you to board an 8 seater plane to Vieques Airport.

Once you’re on the island, you can stay anywhere ranging from $90 a night B&B’s to luxury hotels, so whether you’re on a typical college budget, or you happen to have a trust fund, there are accomodations for you.

Activities on the island include: hiking, snorkeling and diving, biking, fishing, sightseeing and dining in Bravos de Boston, Vieques’ most fashionable town. However, the highlight of this destination is definitely its Bioluminescent Bay. The bay is filled with phosphorescent microorganisms, that glow in the dark when disturbed. Nighttime charter boats take you on a guided swimming and kayaking trip to the brightest bio bay in the world. If you’re looking for a tropical getaway that won’t break the bank and is off the beaten path, Vieques is it. Read More »