I just got back from a few days in Philadelphia at a medical education conference. I stayed at the Rittenhouse Hotel, and I felt like a princess there.
The best part of the trip came at the very end. I was lucky enough to grab a standby seat on a completely full flight, and since my family wasn't expecting me until midnight, I surprised them and joined them for dinner.
Then my husband surprised me back. He had taken care of the kids all week while feeling under the weather, and he kept it a secret so I wouldn't feel guilty about being away. Initially, I felt guilty. Then I felt blessed to have a partner who thought of everyone else more than himself.
Below is everything I loved about the trip, from where I stayed to where I ate, plus two new podcast episodes and this week's favorites, so you can borrow it all for your next one.
Travel lighter, come home calmer
It starts with the bag. My favorite is my Heys Puffer Travel Tote. It has tons of storage and is super light, so I can pack a laptop, snacks and more, and it never feels heavy.
Before you pack anything, look at what is actually on your schedule each day and pack for that list alone. Choosing one color palette helps too. With two neutrals and one accent color, every top works with every bottom. My six-piece work wardrobe is built exactly that way.
Once you arrive, give small things a home. Keep chargers in one pouch and toiletries in one kit, and put them in the same spot in every hotel room. For conference days, bring a light layer for cold ballrooms, a water bottle, a snack and a portable charger.
And when you get home, keep the first morning back light if you can, so the energy from the trip doesn't disappear into your inbox.
My Philadelphia guide
Where I stayed
The Rittenhouse Hotel was gorgeous. There is a beautiful library attached to the bar, and the staff were so helpful and sweet. The rooms were beautiful and spacious and very luxurious, and turndown service came with a dark chocolate and slippers!
Night one: Thai, gelato, and an Italian market
My first night, I had dinner at Smile Cafe with my neighbor and friend who is in medical school there. It's a Thai BYOB in Rittenhouse, so bring a bottle. Afterward we grabbed gelato and a cappuccino at Gran Caffè L'Aquila. It was so nice to have a local to share the best gems of the city.
Gran Caffè L'Aquila's market has all my favorite Italian treats, like Mulino Bianco cookies. Right next door, Di Bruno Bros. is a more extensive Italian market. It feels like being back in Italy in a neighborhood grocery. ❤️
Night two: Greek with colleagues
The second night, I went to Estia with my colleagues from the meeting. It's high end, delicious Greek food. I ordered a Godfather, my favorite find from my trip to Italy last year. The recipe is below.
Night three: karaoke
Our last night, we went to Yakitori Boy for karaoke. Such a fun experience!
Mornings and snacks
Every morning started with a latte and a pastry at Madis Coffee Roasters, and Insomnia Cookies was my snack later in the day.
Make it at home: The Godfather
Stir 2 oz blended Scotch and about 3/4 oz amaretto with ice. Add 2 drops of bitters if you like. Strain over one large ice cube in a chilled rocks glass, then twist an orange peel over the top.
The coach's view
We talk a lot about making room for what matters. A trip like this only happens because someone else holds things down at home.
For high achievers, guilt is often the price of stepping away, but it doesn't have to be. Accepting help is part of making room, and so is letting yourself enjoy the trip once you're on it.
This week's question: Who makes room for you, and when did you last tell them?
New this week: two podcast episodes
HuMed with David Spiro, MD
Allergist Dr. Lauren Fine: "Stop Asking for Permission"
47 min. Video and audio.
Listen on Apple Watch on YouTubeSouth Florida Leaders with Brian Fay
Stop Following the "Shoulds": Career Pivots, Coaching and Leadership
29 min.
Listen on AppleThis week's favorites
01 · The research
The Power of "Thank You" for Couples
A University of Illinois study found that couples who feel appreciated by their partner report more satisfying, more stable relationships, even under stress.
Read the article02 · The re-entry
How to Ease Back Into Work After Time Away
Practical steps for your first days back, from previewing your inbox to choosing what can wait.
Read the article03 · Pack
How to Pack the Perfect Carry-On for Business Travel
A plan-first approach and a capsule built on neutrals, from TripIt.
Read the article04 · Dress
How to Pack a Business Travel Capsule Wardrobe
One palette, wrinkle-friendly fabrics, fewer pieces. From BCD Travel.
Read the article05 · Explore
The Rittenhouse Guide to Rittenhouse Square
Art, shopping and dining steps from the hotel.
Read the guideTravel picks
My favorite bag
Heys Puffer Travel Tote
Under 2 lbs, a padded pocket for a 15.6" laptop, nine interior pockets, and it fits as a personal item.
Shop itThe travel picks are affiliate links. I may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
If you are making room for something bigger than a trip, your first coaching session is free.
