I have a lot of international bucket list items, but here’s a place I’ve been itching to go in the US: Charleston, South Carolina!

Charleston was the perfect blend of historic charm, great coffee, and artistic inspiration during my trip for Layover Conference—the first-ever live artist conference. It was a whirlwind of creative energy, amazing food, and exploring this beautifully preserved Southern city.

Where I stayed

Checked into the Andrew Pinckney Inn, a charming boutique hotel right in the heart of the city. Perfectly located for exploring the cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and all the best coffee shops (because, obviously, I had to try all the things). Conference venue: William Aiken House.

Day 1

After checking in, we had some time to kill before the welcome cocktail hour and took the chance to explore. Here’s what we did:

• Lunch at Church and Union Charleston – A great introduction to the Charleston food scene with a lively atmosphere and delicious bites. The restaurant used to be a church and they kept the original architecture and beautiful stained glass windows!

• Pineapple Fountain & Rainbow Row – No visit to Charleston is complete without seeing these two iconic spots. The pastel-colored houses along Rainbow Row? Chef’s kiss.

• The Spice & Tea Exchange of Charleston – Couldn’t resist stopping by this shop, filled with fragrant spices and unique tea blends. I got rose and lavender flavored sugars! Absolute game changer for my morning coffee.

• City Market – Browsed the famous market filled with local artisans, sweetgrass baskets, and souvenirs.

• Welcome Party at The Greenhouse at Hotel Emeline – Cocktail hour and heavy hors d’oeuvres kicked off the conference. The perfect chance to meet fellow artists and get excited for the days ahead.

• Dinner at TBonz Gill & Grill – A casual, no-frills meal to wrap up the first day with new friends.

Day 2

• Coffee at Emeline – A beautiful spot with cozy, stylish decor with coffee from Clerks Coffee Company inside the hotel before hopping on the CUTEST vintage bus to kick off our first full conference day. Coffee order: lavender flavored chai latte—INCREDIBLE. Spoiler: I drank this the rest of the trip.

• Artist Panel – Kicked off the day with an inspiring panel featuring Stephanie Gaffney, Heather Wolfe, and Chloe Campbell, who shared insights on expanding their businesses beyond live painting—covering topics like team-building, diversifying services, courses, and products.

• Composition & Proportion Workshop by Stephanie Gaffney – A deep dive into composition techniques and balancing proportion in live painting.

• Casual Lunch on the Lawn – A relaxed midday break before heading into more sessions.

• Luxury Market Positioning Panel – A discussion on how to elevate your business in the luxury space, featuring event planner Haley Kelly, operations consultant Laurie Lindsey, and hospitality expert Nelson Billington.

• Dinner at the Venue – More networking, amazing food, and conversations with fellow creatives. We each also got our own sketches by the ever talented Jessica Sebok-Brooks. I’m absolutely obsessed with mine!

• Live Model Fashion Illustrations Workshop by Chloe Campbell – An opportunity to loosen up, gain confidence in line work, and experiment with new mediums while illustrating live models.

Day 3

• Another day another lavender chai latte from Clerks Coffee Company. No regrets.

• Speed, Portraits & Productivity Workshop by Heather Wolfe – Focused on improving speed and efficiency in live painting while capturing portraits with ease.

• Farewell Brunch – A perfect wrap-up to an inspiring and creatively fulfilling conference with new artist friends.

• Rooftop Drinks at the Grand Bohemian Hotel – Sipped cocktails with a great view of the city. The hotel is incredibly beautiful with a quirky twist and even an art gallery inside!

• Dinner at Magnolias – One of the best meals of the trip, featuring refined Southern cuisine.

Day 4

After breakfast at the hotel, I wandered through the shopping district on my way to Kudu Coffee – A final coffee stop before heading out. Great atmosphere and a solid way to close out my Charleston adventure.

Charleston was the perfect city for an art conference. It’s such an adorable city filled with pastel colors, friendly people, and delicious food that spikes my cholesterol levels (again, no regrets for a short trip). Charleston is also packed with creativity, history, and some of the best coffee and cocktails I’ve had in a while.

Samantha Shammas, Author

A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.

You may have seen in my bio and other places that I’m from DC, but I’m also a Canadian citizen! 🇨🇦 So hello to yearly trips up north.

If you enjoy NYC like I do, you will absolutely LOVE Toronto. And if you find NYC overwhelming, you’ll still love Toronto because it’s basically the less populated, cleaner, nicer sister of New York. Toronto is Canada’s biggest city and ultimate cultural melting pot. It’s got world-class museums, amazing food, and hockey obsession levels that are off the charts. Whether you're exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, skating in the winter, or sipping a double-double from Tim Hortons, Toronto knows how to keep things interesting—and the easy-to-use metro system makes getting around a breeze!

A few favorite places

• Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – One of Canada’s top museums, and right now, it’s extra fancy thanks to the Christian Dior exhibit. If you love fashion, history, or just really pretty dresses, don’t miss it. Plus, the museum itself is a work of art, with its striking mix of classic and modern architecture.

• The Miniature Museum of Toronto – A hidden gem! This place is packed with incredibly detailed tiny worlds, from historic homes to fantasy scenes. If you love intricate craftsmanship, this is a must-see.

• Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada – Located right next to the CN Tower, this aquarium is surprisingly massive. Walking through the underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and stingrays? 10/10 experience.

• Hockey Hall of Fame – Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan or just here for the vibes, this place is peak Canadian. You can see the Stanley Cup, test your goalie skills, and learn about some of hockey’s greatest legends.

• Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) – One of the best art museums in North America. Whether you’re into classic European paintings, Indigenous art, or contemporary masterpieces, the AGO delivers. Plus, the Frank Gehry-designed spiral staircase is an attraction in itself.

Food points

Toronto has a million delicious restaurants, but there are a couple things that are just simply Canadian:

1. Tim Hortons. Grab a double-double (coffee with two creams, two sugars) and a box of Timbits (donut holes, my fav) to snack on while exploring the city. It’s a Canadian rite of passage.

2. Poutine. It originally came from Quebec, but you’ll find it all over Canada! There’s been numerous adaptations over the years, but the original is french fries, gravy, and cheddar cheese curds all together in a bowl. DELICIOUS.

If visiting in the winter

Toronto transforms into a skater’s paradise. Top rinks include:

• Nathan Phillips Square – Skating in front of the famous Toronto sign? Iconic.

• Harbourfront Centre – A scenic rink right by the lake.

• The Bentway – A unique skating trail underneath the Gardiner Expressway (because why not?).

Extras

A couple things I experienced for the first time that aren’t specifically Canadian activities:

1. Indoor skydiving. It takes place in a vertical wind tunnel, where powerful fans create a cushion of air strong enough to keep you floating mid-air. It’s a bit of a strange experience as the wind is insanely strong, but it’s fun and should definitely be tried at least once!

2. Sensory deprivision tank. It’s a dark, soundproof pod filled with body-temperature water and tons of Epsom salt, making you float effortlessly—like a human cork. The goal? To eliminate all external distractions (sight, sound, touch) and let your mind totally relax. I absolutely LOVED it. Since the water matches your body temperature, you start to lose the sensation of where your body ends and the water begins. It’s like being in a dreamy, weightless state, where your mind can completely unwind. 10/10 recommend.

Toronto is vibrant, diverse, and full of surprises. Whether you’re geeking out over dinosaurs at the ROM, marveling at tiny masterpieces, or eating your way through Kensington Market, Toronto has something for everyone—and with its convenient metro system, getting from one adventure to the next is effortless.

Samantha Shammas, Author

A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.

California is one of those places that just has it all—beaches, mountains, amazing food, and endless things to do. Whether you’re in San Diego soaking up the sun or exploring the bustling streets of Los Angeles, you’ll find a little bit of everything. Plus, if you want to visit both, it’s an easy 3 hour train ride from one to the other!

San Diego

San Diego is laid-back, effortlessly cool, and an absolute paradise for anyone who loves great food, coffee, and ocean views.

• Mexican Food Heaven – Being so close to the border, San Diego has some of the most authentic Mexican food in the U.S.. From street tacos to California burritos (yes, the ones with fries inside!), you’ll want to eat your way through the city.

• Better Buzz Coffee – Hands down, the best coffee ever. Their "Best Drink Ever" (yes, that’s the actual name) is a smooth, creamy vanilla latte that is dangerously addictive.

• La Jolla Hikes – If you’re looking for a mix of gorgeous ocean views and an epic workout, La Jolla has some killer hiking trails.

• PowerHaus Pizza – The perfect post-hike meal—this spot serves healthy, delicious pizza packed with fresh, local ingredients.

• Beaches & Sunsets – San Diego’s beaches are next-level beautiful, and the sunsets here? Unreal. Whether you’re at Pacific Beach, Coronado, or Sunset Cliffs, the golden hour glow is absolutely magical.

Los Angeles

LA is big, chaotic, and full of surprises—but that’s what makes it so fun.

• Santa Monica: My Favorite Spot – Out of everywhere in LA, Santa Monica is the vibe. The pier, the beach, the relaxed atmosphere—it’s just one of those places you never get tired of.

• Contemporary Art Museum (MOCA) – I got to see the Infinity Room, and it was an experience like no other. If you love modern and immersive art, this is a must.

• Dim Sum in Chinatown – LA’s Chinatown is an absolute gem, and grabbing dim sum here is a full-on experience. The dumplings? 10/10.

• Griffith Observatory – One of the best views in the city. Whether you’re here to see the stars through a telescope or just take in the skyline, it’s absolutely worth the visit.

• Hollywood Walk of Fame – Okay, it’s a little touristy, but you gotta do it at least once. Walk along the famous stars, snap some pics, and soak up the Hollywood magic.

• LA Zoo – If you love animals, the Los Angeles Zoo is a great way to spend a day. They have amazing exhibits and conservation programs, making it more than just your average zoo experience.

California is everything you’ve ever imagined and more—a place where you can hike by the ocean in the morning, eat world-class food in the afternoon, and chase city lights at night. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or just an excuse to drink really good coffee by the beach, San Diego and LA are places you’ll want to come back to again and again.

Samantha Shammas, Author

A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.

The coast of southern Spain or the state of Georgia? Based on photos only I wouldn’t be able to tell the difference!

Sea Island, Georgia is a relaxing, upscale getaway with stunning beaches, world-class golf, and Southern hospitality. Tucked along the Golden Isles, this private island offers a perfect mix of adventure and laid-back luxury—whether you’re here for the ocean views, outdoor activities, or just an excuse to sip cocktails by the water. Even the buildings themselves are works of art with plenty of terraces, fountains, ponds, and gardens.

Resort Activities

• Sea Island Beach Club – This is the heart of the island, where you can lounge in a private cabana, float in on of the many pools, or stroll the pristine beaches.

• Falconry, Shooting, & Horseback Riding – Where else can you learn to fly a falcon, shoot sporting clays, and ride horses on the beach all in one day?

• Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Explore the calm, marshy waters and keep an eye out for dolphins and seabirds.

• Fishing & Boating – Whether it’s a deep-sea fishing adventure or a sunset cruise, the waters around Sea Island are made for exploring.

• Golf at the Sea Island Resort – This place is legendary for golfers, with courses that host PGA events and some of the most stunning coastal views.

• Tennis & Pickleball – The courts here are top-notch, and if you’re new to pickleball, this is a great place to try it!

The Spa

If you’re looking for pure relaxation, book a massage or facial and unwind in this beautiful, tranquil retreat. If you’re looking for just a spot to relax and unwind, there’s a private garden in the back! Feel free to walk amongst the facilities, which have beautiful coy ponds, fountains, and gardens. This is also where you’d find the gym, which was a paradise for a gym rat like me!

The Food

Can confirm, everything was delicious and the service was top notch!

• The Georgian Room – The resort’s fine dining gem, offering elevated Southern cuisine in a gorgeous, candlelit setting.

• River Bar & Lounge – A casual spot with waterfront views, fresh seafood, and craft cocktails.

• Southern Tide – An open-air, beachside restaurant serving up shrimp & grits, fresh fish tacos, and coastal classics.

• Colt & Alison – If you’re staying at The Lodge, this is the spot for a perfect steak dinner with an oceanfront view.

Why I was there

Sea Island is no stranger to events. My client hired me and fellow illustrator Elena Fay to sketch for their company retreat! We flew into Jacksonville, Florida and rented a car to drive up. The evening we were working was a beautiful night starting with cocktails on the terrace. Guests signed up for their sketches (many with their partners!) and enjoyed a special dinner alongside the beach while me and Elena sketched throughout the night. It was an all white party so we were able to zip through them a little bit faster. The next day the event organizers put them in acrylic frames and delivered each sketch to the guests’ rooms! Everyone absolutely loved them and it was the perfect gift to go with the weekend.

Still to this day one of my favorite sketch events. If you’re looking for a sketch artist to come to your destination event, I got you! Click here to learn more and fill out the inquiry form.

Samantha Shammas, Author

A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.

After high school, I had a lot of friends enter the military (that’s what happens when you grow up in the DC area) and many of those friends got stationed in amazing places. And if a friend of mine moves to a cool place you best believe I’m coming to visit. One of those places? Hawaii!

Hawaii might technically be part of the United States, but since they only became in a state in the 1950s, it’s still very much rooted in Polynesian history. Even the airport has announcements in both Hawaiian and English. In 2014, I was lucky enough to have 2 good friends stationed at Pearl Harbor and I absolutely loved spending time with them on the island of Honolulu.

Honolulu is the perfect mix of tropical paradise and city vibes. Whether you’re here to soak up the sun, dive into Hawaiian history, or eat your weight in poke bowls, Oahu’s capital has it all; from legendary beaches to historic sites and epic hikes.

Here’s what we did:

• Pearl Harbor National Memorial – A must-visit for history buffs and honestly one of the best museums I’ve ever been to! The USS Arizona Memorial is a moving tribute to those who lost their lives in the 1941 attack, and the museum does an amazing job of bringing history to life. The main part of the museum is actually built in the middle of the water, over one of the fallen ships, with a glass bottom so you can still see the wreckage of the ship. You actually have to take a boat out there. Tip: Go early or book ahead—this place fills up fast!

• Hike Diamond Head – If you’re up for a short but steep hike, Diamond Head offers insane panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific. It’s a 45-minute climb, but the sunrise views are totally worth it.

• Waikiki Beach – The most famous beach in Hawaii, and for good reason. The waves here are perfect for beginner surfers, and the golden sand is ideal for lounging. Sure, it’s touristy, but it’s a classic Honolulu experience you can’t skip!

• North Shore – If you want less crowds and bigger waves, head to North Shore Oahu. It’s world-famous for surfing, and spots like Sunset Beach and Banzai Pipeline are where pros take on monster waves. Even if you’re not surfing, the vibe here is chill and breathtakingly beautiful.

Eat all the food!

Honolulu has some seriously amazing food. A few must-tries:

• Poke Bowls – Fresh, flavorful, and packed with tuna, salmon, or octopus. This was my first time trying poke and I’ve been hooked! Since I visited back in 2014, poke hadn’t made it’s way to the mainland yet so when it did a couple years later I was SO READY.

• Loco Moco – A Hawaiian comfort food classic: rice, a burger patty, fried egg, and gravy.

• Shave Ice – Think of it as the ultimate tropical dessert, best enjoyed at Matsumoto’s on the North Shore.

In all my years of traveling to different beaches, I still haven’t tried surfing yet. Unfortunately, since I visited Hawaii in the month of February, the waves were too intense for surfing so we’ll have to put it on the bucket list for next time!

Samantha Shammas, Author

A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.