I feel like I am always trying new coffee spots, especially during the semester when I need a change of scenery. Sometimes I just do not want to sit at home and study, and I focus better when I get out of the house. I decided to check out three coffee shops in Ventura County: Ragamuffin in Oxnard, Caje in Ventura, and Honey Cup in Oxnard. Even though they are all pretty close to each other, they each have a pretty different vibe.
Ragamuffin, Oxnard
Ragamuffin is located within The Annex at The Collection in Oxnard, and the first thing I noticed was how much seating there is. It feels open and not cramped, which I really liked. Some coffee shops can feel crowded fast, but here there is a ton of space to actually sit and stay for a while.
Another thing I liked is that The Annex has a lot of other food spots inside. So if you go to Ragamuffin for a drink, you can walk across and grab food from somewhere else. That makes it convenient if you are meeting friends or planning to stay longer.
I ordered a vanilla matcha and it was really good. The vanilla did not overpower the matcha, which I liked. It tasted smooth and balanced without being overly sweet. It was simple but still really good and I will for sure be ordering it again.
Caje, Ventura
Caje is honestly one of my favorite coffee shops in Ventura County. The vibe is so cute and since it’s downtown, you can grab your drink then walk around Main Street for a while.
I tried their lavender matcha and I loved it. Lavender can sometimes taste too strong but theirs was balanced well. You can actually taste the lavender without it overpowering the matcha. Out of everything I tried, this one was definitely my favorite.
I also felt like I was able to focus more while studying at Caje. They have seating that is more tucked into a corner, so it feels a little more private. I did not feel as distracted, which is a bit surprising since it is downtown and usually busier.
Another thing that makes Caje stand out is that it is also a cocktail bar so you can go during the day for coffee and go at night for a cute cocktail. I think this makes it stand out from other coffee shops within the area.
Honey Cup, Oxnard
Honey Cup is a smaller coffee shop, so there is not as much seating. It is not really a place you would go to study for hours, but it is still really cute and inviting.
They have good coffee, but the cinnamon roll is what got me. It is honestly one of the best cinnamon rolls I’ve tried. It was soft, flavorful, and not dry at all. When I go back, I will for sure be ordering it again.
Final Thoughts
After going to all three, I realized how much the environment changes the entire experience.
Ragamuffin feels more open and convenient. Caje feels more trendy and has my favorite matcha. Honey Cup feels smaller and more cozy, with the best cinnamon roll.
They are all in Ventura County, but give off different moods depending on what you are looking for that day.
Our car’s value is always a big deal, especially if eventually there will be a time where you want to sell it. Scratches, stains, and damage from the sun can all be solved, but when it’s not, then your car’s value can really drop! Especially here in Ventura County where we have year-round sun, sand from the beach, and dirt from our fields that could really damage a vehicle over time if not maintained. That’s where professional auto detailing comes in. Auto detailing isn’t just just about giving people a clean car, it’s also about protecting your car and keeping its value. With that being said lets jump into the top 5 things a detailer can do to save your car and your wallet!
1.) Paint Protection
Let’s be honest, when we look at a car the paint is almost always the first thing we really look at. When it’s exposed to UV rays all day there can be swirls on it, there can be bird droppings that burn through your paint, and tons of dust and dirt from the agriculture in our city. These things slowly make your car oxidize or even fade. What we do is use things like wax, paint sealants, and ceramic protection. These things are like different layers of shielding for your car. Preventing paint damage monthly saves you from expensive repainting later and just value drops in general.
Lets hear what a dealership used car manager says about this service
“When someone brings in a car for trade in, the first thing we notice is the exterior condition. If the paint is faded or scratched up, the value drops almost right away .”
2.) Interior Work
Cracked dashboards and worn out leather seats are the worst, especially since it’s so easy to avoid. They don’t just show up out of nowhere; it happens from all the heat and neglect. Interior work like conditioning the leather and protecting interior dashes and materials keeps them soft, clean, and will prevent cracks that make your car look 5 years older. “Cars that are maintained regularly almost always bring the strongest offers,” the dealership manager explains.
3.) Wheel Protection
Brake dust builds up super fast every time you drive, and it’s actually corrosive. If you ignore it, it can permanently stain and damage your wheels. A proper wheel cleaning removes all that buildup safely and can protect the finish of them.
4.) Keeping The Engine Clean
In all honesty, unless your car is a show car or has an impressive engine most people will never really think about the engine bay, but dealerships definitely do. A clean engine compartment shows that the owner cared about the vehicle and it also really helps with spotting leaks or problems early before they become expensive repairs. A good detailer will use degreaser to remove all the corrosive gunk that will build up in the engine and will remove all the debris.
5.) Consistency
The key to keeping your cars value is just plain consistency. Regular washes, interior cleanings, and all the things mentioned above really do prevent small issues from turning into big ones. As Jeff Myers, the used car manger, said from our interview “It’s much cheaper to maintain than to hire someone else to restore our inventory.” Detailing once every few years just can’t undo years of neglect and use so the best solution is just to keep it maintained year round.
You might be like most college students, experiencing a specific type of broke that comes in the form of realizing that you have exactly enough money for gas… and maybe laundry. Between classes, textbooks, and trying to have some sort of social life, “fun” starts to feel like a luxury you might not be able to afford.
So I decided to test something: Could I spend and entire day exploring Ventura with just $20?
In the words of Sia, “I love cheap thrills.” This challenge felt like the perfect way to find them. The day started as a budgeting experiment but became a reminder that Ventura is uniquely suited for inexpensive fun. We’ve got ocean views that don’t cost a thing, locally owned coffee shops that still feel personal, and small businesses that remember your face.
Preparation: What you actually need
Before setting out, I kept it simple- A $20 bill, a jacket (because Ventura is a bit unpredictable sometimes), a water bottle, and a small packed sandwich to hold me over.
Packing something small ahead of time helps stretch the budget without taking away from the experience. We’re not trying to “go without”, just spending intentionally.
Morning: Donuts, Coffee, Views
First stop – KD Donuts on Telegraph Road. Not only are you getting what I will confidently call the actual best donut in town, but you’re also supporting a family-owned business that has been part of Ventura for nearly 40 years. It’s a win-win, you get an awesome treat, and you can feel good about where your money’s going. An insider tip: If you’re nice, she might throw in a few donut holes. And let me be clear — it is a requirement that you order the apple fritter. It’s massive. You won’t feel cheated once you feel the weight of it in that little paper sleeve. At $1.75, you kinda feel like you’re getting away with highway robbery. As soon as we drove up, the owner smiled and said,
“I haven’t seen you guys in a while. Did you move? How are you? Come back more often.”
That one comment says everything about why local businesses matter. It doesn’t feel like a transaction, it feels like building community. Our total came to $1.89.
Stop #2 – Daylight & Moon cafe on Loma Vista Road. The space is bright and clean, the staff are genuinely friendly, and they actually care about the quality of what they serve, even if it’s just drip coffee (which is what we’re getting). The coffee is strong and punchy which is perfect to pair with our sweet treat. My drip came out to $3.77.
Running total: $5.66
Stop #3 – With coffee and donut in hand, we set out for Cemetery Memorial Park. This might be one of Ventura’s most underrated spots. There’s something about the grass, sunshine, and island views (all completely free might I add). That’s the thing about this challenge: the best parts of the day were free. We sat, talked, took our time, and genuinely enjoyed it.
Afternoon: More Views, Treasure Hunts, Wandering
After our slow morning, it felt right to lean into another one of Ventura’s natural beauties. We headed up to the Botanical Gardens (which are free on Fridays). If you can time your visit right, it’s one of the best free experiences. The trails wind up the hillside with ocean views that will force you to come back at your earliest opportunity. And if it’s not Friday? I recommend Arroyo Verde Park. Still beautiful. Still completely free.
Stop #5 – The $3 thrift challenge. A challenge within a challenge. To keep things interesting, I added a rule: If you’re going to buy something, it has to be under $3, and it HAS to be something you love – not just something cheap. So you either get to walk out proud that you saved your money… or you find a hidden gem that you really treasure. After scanning shelves and digging a little, I found what I’m pretty sure is a shot glass. But for me, I will be using my $2.14 tiny mug to pot a succulent. If you aren’t as successful as me, you still get some great entertainment and to browse with a purpose.
Next was wandering through downtown. We continue the browsing- but window shopping only this time. Downtown is built for strolling, so you won’t feel like you stand out for not buying anything.
Now’s a good time to bring out that jacket. We made our way down to Beach House Tacos along the promenade. Tacos and ocean views are always a winning combination for me, so this felt like the right place to close out the day. The menu has plenty of options, but this is where things got interesting. While we were in line, I mentioned the $20 challenge to another customer. She immediately leaned in and said,
“Order the kids street tacos. I got them for my kid once and they were so good I started ordering them for myself too. It’s the best deal on the menu.”
And she was right. The kids street taco plate was $6, simple, flavorful, and more filling than expected. Add a coke for $4, and dinner came out to $10.78. And best of all, it still felt like a real “going out” meal.
Talking to people, exploring your options, and staying open, will all help you find better ways to spend your money.
We took our tacos further out on the Ventura Pier and sat watching the waves roll in as the sun set. Tacos and ocean air. Not bad for laundry money.
Another great thing about this day was noticing how much Ventura offers when you slow down enough to look for it. Supporting family-owned businesses, talking to strangers, walking instead of rushing, hunting instead of impulse buying. If you’re a VC student who feels like fun is getting too expensive, I’d encourage you to try something like this, maybe not the exact same stops, but your own version. Pick a number, pick a jacket, bring a friend, see what you find. Ventura makes it easier than you think.
As a Ventura College student, I am always on the lookout for the best atmosphere to complete my school work. Instead of using Starbucks as the default option, I explored around my hometown of Camarillo to see what it had to offer. I went ahead and tried their signature coffees, scoped out the environment, examined their customer service, and what each café sets them apart from their competitors. The four locations I visited are Panadería Lucero, Tree Lounge Coffee, Village Cafe, and Café Ficelle. That being said, take a trip with me through Camarillo and let’s unpack what I experienced.
Panadería Lucero
Panadería Lucero is the sister location to Antojitos Lucero, where they offer traditional and a wide range of pan dulce (sweet bread), alongside specialty coffees curated with a Mexican twist. Their other drink offerings include champurrado, café de olla, and aguas frescas. When I initially entered in, I was immediately greeted with the sweet smell of the pastries and “corrido” music to feel like I walked into abuelita’s house. Their staff welcomed my brother and me with a warm greeting, which was a nice first impression.
We ordered the iced dalgona whipped coffee with cookie butter cold foam and an iced café de olla with banana cold foam, conchas (struessel-like and shell- shaped bread), and cuernitos (sugar- dusted croissants). Each drink is made to order, so the flavor combinations are endless to satisfy your preferences. Because this business is family-owned, their staff isn’t the biggest, so our drinks took some time to make, which is understandable.
Iced Dalgona Whipped Coffee with Cookie Butter Cold Foam Iced Café de Olla with Banana Cold Foam
The presentation of our lattes looked like it was made with time and effort, which is justifiable for how much I paid for them. The iced dalgona coffee with cookie butter cold foam did not disappoint and exceeded my expectations for how it would taste. The main takeaway from this drink is how sweet it is, with caramel being the dominating flavor. On top of the foam were Biscoff cookie crumbles. This drink was reminiscent of Werther’s caramel candy in the best way. Moving on, the iced café de olla might not be for everyone due to its earthy, cinnamon-like flavor. Of course, you can add milk to it and soften the spice level. The banana cold foam was the perfect choice to tone down the cinnamon, but they also offer other cold foam flavors if banana isn’t up your thing. Just like the dalgona drink, my café de olla had Nilla wafer cookie crumbles to replicate what I assume tastes like banana pudding. Once stirred with the cold foam to dissipate, both flavors were harmonious and did not clash. They bounced off of each other and pleased my tastebuds.
From taking time to deliberate, a unique quality of this cafe, I conclude that their family- oriented energy you feel radiate once you enter brings a sense of comfort, with reminiscent smells of going to my grandma’s house. The atmosphere transports you into a state of calm, compared to other cafes that have a “hustle and bustle” vibe. Overall, I would return to give my business to Panadería Lucero and spread the word about what they have to offer.
2. Tree Lounge
Located in Old Town of Camarillo, Tree Lounge offers an easy-going cafe setting with lo-fi music to emulate a serene escape. The minute my brother and I entered, we were met with pieces of local artist’s hung and displayed everywhere our eyes could gaze upon. Tree Lounge places an emphasis on highlighting local artists and their art, showcasing thier admirable quality of community pride.. It’s hole- in- the- wall location provides a great option to avoid heavy foot traffic Their hours of operation provide a window of opportunity to step in and be transcended into a “flow state” of productivity.
The barista reassured us to take our time and not rush to order right away, which I see is a common theme I see for these small business- owned cafes. From looking at their specialty drinks, we decided to order the Island Latte and Ube Latte. The price for both were $7.50. Their menu offers crafted lattes, espresso- based drinks, non-espresso, plus a list of milk substitutes and flavorings. Their food offerings include Chef Galo’s award-winning empanadas as well as traditional bakery goods supplied by local bakers in Ventura County. Their focus seems to be placed on the beverages and community camaraderie, as region-based bakeries and artists are featured.
The island latte was described as having a macadamia/coconut base with macadamia milk, which screamed, “I’m taking a walk on the beaches of Oahu.” I admire a latte that isn’t your typical caramel or mocha flavor, so the coconut spoke deeply to me, and I felt seen. Their “quality over quantity” aspect of the menu is definitely a reason I will be returning. The ube latte could be the sister drink to the island latte in terms of how easily you are reminded of being on a tropical getaway. Ube is used in desserts found here, such as offering biscoff brownies, crinkle cookies, and toasted coconut coffee cake. That being said, the ube latte was incredibly delicious and indulgent. Once I tasted it, I kept going back for more. Both the island and ube lattes proved themselves, and their simplicity is enough to satisfy that “afternoon pick me up.”
Island latte
Ube Latte
Our drinks are specialty made, not just a regular chain like MaKenna Koffee, who are more of a Dutch Bros kinda place. The vibes we strive for are to have people come in, feel like family, and choosing to keep coming back.” – Jasmine, Social Media Manager of Tree Lounge, regarding what sets Tree Lounge apart from their competitors
From time to time, Tree Lounge hosts pop-up events that range from featuring art walks, live music and painting events, holiday- themed activities, and are heavily encourage having Camarillo residents participating in local events. There is no doubt how considerate and authentic this business is for measuring success not through sales, but as being an outlet for people to come together and create memories.
They simply host these events and the attendees take over. This makes sense, as their Instagram is filled with event flyers posted one after another, translating into their success as a hosting location. All in all, Tree Lounge would be the ideal spot for a studying, a coffee date or rewarding yourself because “you needed it.”
3. Village Cafe
Residents of the Village Commons are familiar with the Village Cafe and its intimate setting, where they can enjoy homemade, quality meals accompanied by crafted lattes. Here you will find that this small business is owned by a husband and wife, who are committed to serving their customers only the freshest ingredients and leaving behind a family legacy to future generations. Their core values are to create a sense of home and family for anyone who steps in. Inside, you will find roughly five small tables that emulate the feeling of being in mom’s kitchen waiting for dinner to be made. By stressing the importance of family and community, Village Cafe lives up to their promise and creates the right location to spend a few bucks on either a breakfast burrito or a banana coconut matcha.
Although their coffee menu is quite condensed to only a handful of lattes, matcha, chai, and hot chocolate, that did not stop us from testing out what they had to offer. I had ordered an iced banana bread latte, and my brother Jakob went for an iced brown butter pecan chai latte. We received our drinks in a timely manner, delivered personally by their in- house barista, all while being thanked for our patience.
The banana flavor was strong enough to be present and not tooth-achingly sweet. With a light in-house made cold foam dusted with cinnamon, it tasted like a banana bread loaf fresh out of the oven. I went ahead and mixed the coffee and foam to blend the flavors more seamlessly, which was the cherry on top. The cold foam had an airy and cool whip- like consistency that didn’t combat the coffee at all. The price for this drink, was $8, and I was more than happy to oblige at that price point.
Banana Latte with Cold Foam Brown Butter Pecan Chai Latte
However, as Jakob began sipping the iced brown butter pecan chai, his face formed a frown. These were his notes about his beverage, “I wish there was more ice to make it a true iced drink, so that would’ve been nice… The presentation was bleak and nothing special about it, not even cold foam, but maybe that’s our bad for not ordering it? Either way, I feel like who ever made my drink wanted to just get the order over with and onto the next.” Typically, chai lattes are simply the tea concentrate and whatever milk of choice. But with the banana bread latte, it seemed as if more effort was put into that one and the chai latte got “crumbs” in terms of crafting it. Jakob didn’t finish even half because he felt the price he paid didn’t match what he received.
Village Cafe may be best to visit as soon as their doors open to beat the 11am rush on weekends, ensuring you receive quality service and products without the tiredness from their minimal staff. Personally, I will come back earlier in the day and try a different round of drinks to find the right one to be my “go-to” for when I’m in the area.
4. Café Ficelle
Café Ficelle comes out on top as far as being a well-run business, as seen in their other locations in Ventura and Thousand Oaks. They have established themselves in the niche aesthetic of bringing European- inspired delicacies to Camarillo. It is more than simply a café, since they’re classified as a “boulangerie” and “patisserie.” The term “boulangerie” is French for describing a bakery that specializes in making and selling bread in- house. When I walked through the doors with my boyfriend, Dominic, our eyes were immediately drawn to the pastries and loaves of bread for sale. The warm smell of dough and fresh-baked breakfast items felt exactly how Sunday morning does on a warm summer day.
To preface, Café Ficelle is more of a breakfast/brunch restaurant, so the setting inside isn’t as intimate as the other places in Camarillo. Regardless, the drinks we chose to try were an iced vanilla matcha latte and an iced white mocha latte. The employee who took my order seemed not have the best morning due to her lack of attention in asking me and Dominic if we needed more time or any questions about the menu. I perceived her demeanor as not wanting to be at work that morning, which translated into her poor customer service.
As I took my first sip of the matcha latte, I tasted clumps of matcha powder which is a dead giveaway that it wasn’t properly whisked or sifted before pouring hot water. There was an adequate amount of ice, but it made the matcha taste bitter even with the almond milk and a hint of vanilla flavoring. For this matcha latte, I paid was $7, and I am confident to say it will not be repurchased in the future and that I can find better- tasting matcha elsewhere in Ventura County.
Iced Matcha Latte
As Dominic tried his white mocha latte, he sarcastically said, “WOW! Starbucks can make a better version of whatever this is.” When I asked him what he meant by this, his response was “Starbucks makes theirs sweeter, so the price I pay is fine by me, and I like knowing what I’m getting based on their consistent recipe.”
Iced White Chocolate Mocha Latte
Touching on how this café is a traditional restaurant, I wouldn’t classify it as a place to study quietly. Since there are families with children, young adolescents, and older adults coming in to get served breakfast and/or brunch, getting work done here would’t be the best choice. There are too many distractions of people coming in and out, employees delivering food, and the typical environment of restaurant chatter. Café Ficelle would be a great option for a breakfast outing, meeting up with an old friend, making ordinary mornings seem special.
~ Café Ranking ~
First up, we have Tree Lounge in Old Town. From the minute I arrived until I left, I was satisfied with what I ordered, the vibes I picked up, and most importantly, how I felt welcomed with open arms to take up space.
In second place comes Panadería Lucero and its admirable quality of being a Latino family run business. To see a business, such as Panadería Lucero, functioning and thriving in Camarillo fills me with pride in where I come from and our hardworking people.
In third, we have the Village Cafe serving as a safe choice for receiving quality drinks due to how serious their in- house barista takes their craft. I would suggest perusing their Instagram, finding what drinks speak to you, and visiting before 11am to receive consistently made drinks.
Café Ficelle comes last because how I was not pleased with either of the drinks, the prices I paid, or lack of customer service. Their performance has potential, but being a well- established business with multiple locations in Ventura County did not meet my expectations.
Overall, take my reviews into consideration and what to look out for, but I recommend visiting yourself to make an assessment based on your own experience. Besides the criteria I used to rank each place, I also noted the overarching experience being young college student trying to find her little corner of this world for peace and quiet. The hunt for the perfect study spot continues!
Known as “the happiest place on Earth”, Disneyland is a highly sought out destination for many due to its incredible attractions. Offering tasty unique food and drink options, character meet ups, rides/coasters, shows, and more! Between all of that, high prices, long wait times, and the large crowds it can get a bit overwhelming at times. However, no need to fret I’ll be going over some of my favorite recommendations and tips that I’ve learned as someone who has a magic key (annual pass) and has been going frequently for a few years. So let’s dive in!
Tip: The best cold brew is served at the Dockingbay in Galaxy’s Edge
Fave Foods:
Disneyland
Jolly Holiday Cafe
Jolly Holiday has great dining options, they have sandwiches, soups, salads, and pastries. My go to is the beef birria grilled cheese sandwich. Very flavorful and a decent sized portion. They also offer seasonal options. Around the holidays they have a turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce that’s definitely a must have.
Hungry Bear has a great menu selection offering barbecue, burgers, chicken tenders, and tons of delicious desserts. If you’re a barbecue fan you’ll definitely want to check it out! I love to try their seasonal funnel cakes so if you ever see one available make sure not to miss out on it!
The boardwalk dining for Lamplight Lounge is the perfect stop for shareable appetizers, and a delicious drinks. My all time favorite is the “Spotlight” barbacoa nachos. I personally am not a seafood fan but I’ve heard amazing reviews about the lobster nachos as well. Besides the amazing food and drinks it has a beautiful view as it sits on the pier by the ferris wheel. To get seated you just walk up and join their virtual walk up list. Definitely worth the visit!
Cocina Cucamonga is located in San Fransokyo Square, and serves Mexican cuisine. Most of their food is incredible, the only item I’m not a fan of is the street corn. My go to order is the quesabirria tacos. If I’m feeling extra hungry I’ll add on a side of cilantro lime rice, and of course wash it down with an horchata. Seriously too good to pass up on!
Most dining options allow for mobile ordering so check ahead to schedule orders for asap or a later time!
*Tip: Do NOT eat at Galactic Grill at Disneyland I’ve tried it a few times and every time has been disappointing. Save your money and go literally anywhere else!*
Best Drinks (alcohol)
Tip: You can mobile order your drink ahead of time just like food. Just be sure to have a valid ID, 2 drinks per 1 ID can be given!
Disneyland
Oga’s Cantina- must join waitlist before hand or make reservation, for those who are under 21 no problem there’s no age restriction to enter! Make Reservation
The Fuzzy Ton-Ton (my go to)
California Adventureland
The Brewery X Baja Blast (Made with alcohol)
Hollywood Lounge
Shmoozies
Award Weiners (get the Brewery X Baja Blast)
Lamplight Lounge (get the Dole whip shots)
Pym Testing Lab (get the R&D Martini)
The one on the left is Litmus Lemonade (contains alcohol) which tastes just like the Starbucks Strawberry Açaí Refresher, and the one on the right is the R&D Martini which tastes like an espresso martini (this one is my new favorite)
Navigating the Lightening Lane:
The Lightening Lane isn’t perfect and can be confusing so this is my advice on using it as someone who doesn’t like to wait!
Plan ahead which rides are a priority for you. If you’re park hopping the pass applies to both parks, and you are able to book slots every 2 hours.
Popular rides will run out of slots earlier in the day. I constantly see rides like Guardians of the Galaxy, Space Mountain, and Indiana Jones only offering slots for 11pm by 3pm. So, for popular rides like those I’d advise you book them earlier in the day to ensure a slot.
There are two rides that are excluded from the pass and are available for separate purchasing. These rides are Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland, and Radiator Springs Racers at California Adventure. Each ride is available to buy a separate pass for $20 each.
-If you don’t feel like spending an extra $20 I’d advise using the single rider line for Radiator Springs Racers, since you can wait the entire time with your party and just ride separately.
Tip: Hit Radiator Springs in the night for the best views, the whole area gets lit up and is stunning
-Rise of the resistance doesn’t do single riders so your best alternative would be to either go right when the park opens or right before the ride closes. Do note though that this ride closes by 10pm even when the park closes at 12am.
As everyone knows rides do break down here and there and will close for maintenance, in the event that the ride you booked the pass for is not operating during your time slot you’ll be given a unique pass. A cast member will scan it and you’ll see a single use multi-use experience will pop up. You’ll be able to use this at any ride that accepts lightening lane. (Some people will use this as a hack if they know a ride will be down most likely all day in order to use the pass on a ride that doesn’t offer a slot for a long time)
You can only book each ride one time. Although you get new bookings every 2 hours, you cannot repeat a ride using lightening lane. So, if the wait time for a ride is relatively short I’d recommend waiting to use it until it gets busier.
Lastly, use the tip board where you schedule slots to keep up with wait times and in between slots fit in rides with shorter wait times to maximize your experience.
Ride Hacks
On Big Thunder Mountain try to maintain eye contact with the goat while going through the bend as it’s said to make it feel faster.
The Matterhorn ride has two tracks; the left side and right side. The left side is more aggressive, while the right is more gentle. So, if you like thrill take the left, and if you like a more mellow experience go right.
The Winnie the Pooh and Storybook ride offer a special experience to the first riders everyday. If you’re the first in line to either ride you get to sign a book. Personally, I’m not usually there that early, but for my morning people you may want to consider it as it’s a unique experience!
The Monsters Inc ride at California Adventure sometimes offers their own version of the single rider line and is referred to as a buddy pass. Buddy pass is applicable to parties of 2 and 1, and the entrance is through the exit. Just make sure to ask a cast member to see if they’re offering it that day.
Rope Drop Hacks
Most people who rope drop will go to the right side of the park first, so do the opposite and go left for less crowds at Disneyland
If you rope drop at California Adventure start at Pixar Pier, and knock out all of those rides
Thank you for reading, and I hope these help you with your next Disney day! If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out 🙂
Concerts are literally some of the best experiences you can have but sometimes, they’re not perfect. There’s a good side and a bad side to concert culture, and if you’re planning to go to your first show, you should probably know both.
The Good Stuff
First off, concerts are just a great experience, especially if you go with the right people. The second the lights go out and the artist steps on stage, it’s like the whole place explodes. You’re surrounded by people who love the same music you do, and even if some of the people around you cannot sing you still appreciate every minute of it. Everyone’s singing, dancing, screaming , it’s pure happiness.
Another awesome thing is the connection. Sometimes the artist will stop mid-show and just talk to the crowd, telling stories or saying how much they love their fans. It’s super personal and makes you feel like you’re seen, even if you’re in the nosebleeds with binoculars.
Plus, the memories you make at concerts are unmatched. Even if you lose your voice and your legs hurt the next day, you’ll always remember the night you screamed your heart out with a stadium full of people.
The Bad
Concerts can also be rough.First of all, the crowds. If you don’t like being squished between sweaty strangers, you might have a bad time. People will shove you, step on you, and some won’t even say sorry. Especially in general admission (aka standing areas),it’s like survival of the fittest in there, especially for me standing at 5”3, I see people shorter then me around and I wonder how they are feeling.
Also, getting tickets is a whole nightmare. You think you’re gonna be fine, but then Ticketmaster decides to put you at 30,000 in the queue . And IF you somehow manage to get a ticket, it costs so much money.
Finally, there’s always the risk of bad crowd behavior. Some people don’t know how to act, they push, they fight, they throw stuff on stage. It can turn what should be a fun night into a stressful one if people don’t respect each other.
Final Thoughts
Even with all the downsides, concerts are still SO worth it. Yeah, you might get shoved around and spend too much money, but the feeling of seeing your favorite artist live is just unbeatable. You’ll laugh, maybe cry, probably lose your voice, but most importantly, you’ll leave with memories you’ll never forget.
This past week I went to Fairfax and Melrose in LA just to visit a few stores that I enjoy going to when I’m out there. Melrose and Fairfax or streets in Los Angeles, that are known to have many fashion retailer stores on the streets whether its secondhand designer, buy, sell, trade stores, independent fashion companies, or just designer retailers. Wherever you go on Melrose and Fairfax you are bound to find something new and unique whether it’s a food place, record shop, or even a clothing store.
1. Brain Dead Studios
if you enjoy high-quality fabrics and unique designs, then you might want to go check out Brain Dead Studios. They are located on Fairfax and their shop is very unique. Not only is it a showroom for their product but it also has a theater in the building where they hold movie nights. You can visit their website to see what movies they are going to be showing how much tickets cost. With having the movie theater in the same building, they also own their own concession stand where customers can buy drinks, food, and Eivan shirts that are specifically designed for Brain Dead Studio’s movie theater. In addition to the movie theater, they also have their own café outside in the back of the building. Brain Dead Studios is a store that has more to offer than just clothes.
2. Heaven by Marc Jacobs
Heaven by Marc Jacobs is a very unique and store that I always enjoy visiting. They have such unique designs when it comes to their jewelry. Their clothes are very eye catching and their other accessories such as their bags are so pretty. I personally love going to this store not only for their products but also to see the other brands they carry. Instead of only selling their products they also sell different brand’s items as well. One of my favorite smaller brands that they carry is Gen 2. Gen 2 is ran by one of the employees who works at Heaven by Marc Jacobs. During my visit, I got to talk to Julia and Shannon, who are employees at the store. I asked them a few questions such as what made them want to work at Heaven. Julia replied, “ I had previous experience in high retail in the environment seemed pretty laid-back. I also really like the customers in the type of customers that come in. I like that the store attracts a more younger crowd.” Shannon said, “ I used to come to the store a lot when I first moved here and I wanted to work somewhere that was more fun and also somewhere I actually want to be at. I came in one day and asked if they were hiring. It was just the right place right time.” I also asked which item in the store is their personal favorite item. Julia responded, “ A few of my favorite items in the store right now is our D squared vintage hat and the Heaven camo dress. It’s funny because when I first started here, I wanted that camo dress so bad that after I started, I ended up getting that as my first purchase.” Shannon said, “ My favorite item in the store are the brown Margaret boots. I really like those boots because they kind of remind me more of a cowboy style. I wanted them so bad when I was living in Texas.” I enjoyed talking to the employees every time I come in because they’re so friendly and helpful when it comes to finding the right pieces to buy.
3. 2nd Street
2nd Street is a store that buys from people who come in and sell their clothes and either offers them a percentage back in trade or cash. 2nd Street specializes in streetwear, high end designer brands, and vintage. The store has an item for everybody, whether a person is looking for something cheap and up to trend or a little on the pricier side for higher name brand items. I enjoyed looking through their vintage section because they have a good variety of different T-shirts, hats, outerwear, and jeans for a decent price. I’ve seen their other sections such as their designated racks for their higher and items, like Balenciaga and they have a great variety that’s not priced too bad. You could find items from all over at 2nd Street. Pieces from the last two stores I talked about will sometimes pop up here. This is a great store to go to when you’re looking for something that you don’t know what that something is yet because you can get lost in the items this store has curated.
These are just three stores that I mentioned you can find on Melrose and Fairfax. There are so many other shops out there that I could talk about, but I really enjoy going to these three. I have picked up pieces from these stores that caught my eye and I’ve gone to events at these stores and enjoyed myself during that time.
If you would like to see my last experience, going to these stores feel free to click here to watch my review of these stores.
As a college student, I find that I spend a lot of time sitting down; whether it’s in front of my computer or in class, I don’t really give my body the movement it requires on a daily basis. I enjoy scrolling and watching countless hours of media on my phone as much as the next person. Recently I realized the negative impact all of this lack of movement was having on me both mentally and physically, so I decided to act. I conducted some research on various hiking trails in Ventura County, and I’ve been tackling them one by one, feeling incredibly motivated as each week passes by. The moment I reach the highest point of elevation in a trail truly feels liberating, and the scenery is unlike anything else. The fresh breeze is genuinely the best de-stress tool out there. As we enter the last month of this spring semester and stress levels increase with final projects, assignment due dates, and exams, I thought of sharing some of these hiking trails with everyone in hopes that someone finds it beneficial.
I currently own zero hiking equipment. I’ve used my Hoka running shoes up until now because they’re incredibly lightweight and comfortable (not an ad), except for the previous two falls in which those features didn’t help much. But in all seriousness, for my future safety, I will be purchasing some highly recommended slip-resistant hiking shoes. Now I’m not saying everyone should purchase some quality shoes because that comes down to individual opinion; I’m simply sharing my experiences.
Preparation Suggestions:
While indulging in some vitamin D brought to you by the sunny California weather, it’s crucial to take sun-protective measures seriously. Apply your sunscreen, wear a hat, and protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses. Personally, I try to embark on these trails in the mornings to avoid the midday heat. I highly encourage everyone to carry water at all times to avoid heat exhaustion. Preparation is the key to enjoying the outdoors.
Remember to respect the park rangers and the signs; please do not litter. In simple words, respect nature at all times.
Now let’s get to these hiking recommendations! PSA: These trails are not arranged in any order of difficulty.
Mugu Peak
Located:Pt. Mugu State Park (off the PCH)
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 2.0 miles
Time to Complete:2 hrs. approx.
Pet Friendly: No
Trail Route Type: Out & Back, or you can take this 0.8-mile longer loop trail.
2. Ray Miller Backbone Trail
Located:Pt. Mugu State Park (off the PCH)
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5.4 miles
Time to Complete:2 hrs. 40 min. approx.
Pet Friendly: No
Trail Route Type: Out & Back
3. Arroyo Verde Trail
Located:Arroyo Verde Park in Ventura
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.3 miles
Time to Complete: 1 hr. approx.
Pet Friendly: Dogs on a leash
Trail Route Type: Loop
4. Paradise Falls
Located:Wildwood Regional Park in Thousand Oaks
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.1 miles
Time to Complete:1 hr. 50 min. approx.
Pet Friendly: Yes. Dogs must be on a leash.
Trail Route Type: Loop
5. The 102 Trail and Price Family Loop
Located:Harmon Canyon Preserve in Ventura
(Offers many paths, but some aren’t currently accessible; this one is!)
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.3 miles
Time to Complete:2 hrs. approx.
Pet Friendly: Yes. Dogs must be on a leash; they’re not allowed past the 1.8-mile mark.
Trail Route Type: Loop
Overall, whether I’m out there by myself or with others, hiking truly gets rid of every ounce of anxiety and stress in my body. There are numerous trails out there to embark on rather than simply sit around and worry about what can go wrong. I hope this article has sparked some interest in you; don’t be afraid to take some time to create some memorable outdoor moments.
Any hiking trail recommendations are welcomed. Thank you!
This beloved family-owned taco shack has been delighting the community of Ventura County with its mouthwatering food since the year 2000! Snapper Jack’s is joyfully celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. They proudly offer a delightful blend of Mexican and seafood dishes at their three fantastic locations in Ventura, Camarillo, and Thousand Oaks. With an exciting array of items on their menu, plus special offerings from time to time, and nine different savory salsas to elevate any dish, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Among the nine salsas, their Secret Shack Sauce and Yolandas stand out as the fan favorites!
Legendary Salsa Bar
I had the wonderful opportunity to meet with Cinthya, the incredible store manager at the Ventura location. She embarked on her journey with Snapper Jacks at just 19 years old back in 2016, starting at their original location in Ventura. Later that same year, she transitioned to the dearly missed Downtown Ventura location to lend a hand, showcasing her dedication. Cinthya truly enjoys the vibrant environment, appreciating how Snapper Jacks genuinely cares for and values its employees. The company offers great growth opportunities, promoting employees from assistant manager to a possible store manager. Snapper Jacks has flourished within the community by hosting fundraisers and providing support and donations in various ways. Even during COVID, they continued to serve the community through DoorDash and online orders. Cinthya describes the atmosphere as beachy, infused with 60’s and 70’s surfing and skating vibes. She values bravery, outgoing personalities, charisma, and teamwork in potential new employees, taking her time to get to know them and ensuring they prioritize customer service. From her perspective, the best-selling item is the Jacks Combo, featuring a choice of any two tacos (grilled or battered fish, chicken, steak, or potato) accompanied by rice and beans. For newcomers, Cinthya is the go-to person for recommendations, providing informative answers to any questions. Her favorite menu item is the Cancun burrito, which she describes as “like fireworks in your mouth, bursting with flavors and a perfect mix of seafood and Mexican food.” The Cancun burrito includes sautéed shrimp, real crab, rice, jack cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, and avocado slices. When I asked her to encapsulate Snapper Jacks in a single sentence, she joyfully replied, “Overall welcoming, warm, and eye-catching.”
Snapper Jacks is brimming with hardworking staff who bring positivity and dedication to their roles. The kitchen team arrives bright and early each morning to craft everything fresh from scratch, ensuring quality and flavor. Complementing them is a wonderful group of devoted cashiers and managers, all eager to serve the community. Their warm, caring, and attentive nature creates a friendly atmosphere, always greeting customers with a bright smile. Snapper Jacks has recently introduced delicious Chile Relleno items, and I highly recommend heading over to give these delightful dishes a try!
Nestor is a senior manager thriving at all three locations of Snapper Jacks, a company he absolutely loves being part of, thanks to their fantastic flexibility with his schedule. He proudly joined the team through his father, who was a chef for Snapper Jacks, and since 2011, he has witnessed remarkable growth over the years. The working environment radiates warmth and camaraderie, with everyone collaborating joyfully. Nestor has seen Snapper Jacks blossom within the community, understanding that this vibrant spirit is the heart and soul of the business. It’s uplifting to watch people come and go, sharing their delightful stories of frequent visits over generations and recounting how Snapper Jacks has been their treasured first stop in town. New customers often walk in, excited for their first adventure and eagerly seeking recommendations. Nestor happily suggests the nachos with chicken and also recommends the Mahi tacos, filled with cabbage, cheese, and Shack sauce, while they’re still available. His personal favorite is the scrumptious Chicken Caesar burrito, packed with chicken, caesar, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and tortilla strips. When asked to describe Snapper Jacks in one sentence, he beamed, “Very welcoming, a great place for some delicious food!”
I had the fantastic opportunity of speaking with Jarrid, the general manager of Snapper Jacks, who has been a beloved part of the Snapper Jacks family since 2000, just three months after the opening. He truly enjoys working for Jack and Laura, as they are incredibly gracious and appreciative of their entire team. Across all their locations, there’s a joyful commitment to maintaining the original vibe and environment. With the lively 60’s music, charming decor, vintage Schwinn bicycles, classic longboards, and nostalgic surf movies from the 50’s and 60’s, guests can feel that they’re stepping into a space where the timeless surfer spirit thrives. Snapper Jacks has joyfully expanded through Ventura County, opening a location in Camarillo in 2006, followed by another vibrant spot in Thousand Oaks in 2011. Laura’s philosophy centers on the power of word-of-mouth, allowing Snapper Jacks to flourish through the loyalty of delighted customers. If a visitor truly enjoys their experience, they’re eager to share it with others. Described as a “great family atmosphere with excellent service and delicious food at a reasonable price,” Snapper Jacks offers a delightful fusion of Mexican American flavors, famous for its amazing fish tacos.
They are the best places to go eat, drink and relax. I went to each small business and tried their food, desserts and drinks. Wow, everything that I tried was so good and yummy. Those places you can hang out with friends or family having a good time chatting and eating.
ToppersPizza
Toppers pizza is only in Ventura County, CA. Their pizza is the best. They have a lunch special. Their lunch special is from 11a.m. to 3:00p.m. You can get pizza or half sandwich with two toppings and a small salad bar. Their salad bar has good vegetables and dressing. I went to Toppers Pizza and had their lunch special. Both of their pizza and salad were scrumptious. It’s a place to enjoy with family and friends or have a party.
CaféFicelle
Café Ficelle makes their pastries and bread fresh every day. They have the best croissants. It is family owned, it is only in Ventura County in Ventura and Camarillo. Café Ficelle is a French establishment. Café Ficelle is my favorite. I love their almond croissants. They are soft and fresh. They sale different croissants, muffins, and breads. They also sell breakfast and sandwiches and drinks, too. Everything looks so appetizing.
Gobble Up Boba & Dessert
Gobble Up Boba & Dessert they sell mochi donuts and mozzarella potato corn dogs, smoothies and tea drinks. I went to Gobble Up & Dessert I ordered matcha strawberry latte and iced Thai tea they were so good. Also, I ordered mochi donuts, they were soft. Both tea drinks and mochi donuts were so delicious. They sell different flavors of mochi donuts. I love their mochi donuts. It’s a nice relaxing place to hang out.
One Zo Boba
One Zo Boba Opened up about a week ago. It is in Ventura, CA. They sale tea lattes, fruit teas and smoothies. I love it that they use real fruit for their smoothies and fruit teas. I tried their strawberry green tea, iced Thai tea and Oz black tea latte. All the teas were so good. I love their drinks. Their place is cute. They have a rabbit painting on their wall, also flowers on the table.
Go check out all the small businesses. I know you will love them. They are the best places to go eat and enjoy. Have a great time trying them out!
VC Social 