Don't Sleep On My City

Every now and then a Boss Babe has to recharge her batteries. What better way than taking astaycation in my hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. Now, I know what you may be thinking - “Morgan, you travel to so many places - why Cincinnati?” To that I say, “Why not!” Cincinnati, especially downtown has so many amazing businesses, hotels, restaurants and more that you will feel you are on a getaway. 

What about staying safe? Absolutely! You can be responsible, safe and still go have a great time in the city. A lot of Downtown restaurants, businesses and hotels are ready for their customers with updated safety precautions. Also, a lot of these businesses would love to have the support, especially after a crazy year we all had. 

We all have different meanings of what a “staycation” is, but to me a “staycation” involves staying at a chic hotel, pampering myself, treating myself to a little luxury shopping and of course eating a great meal - solo. Yes, decided to leave my dog child Ralph with his Grandparents this time around. I needed to enjoy some ‘me time”. I personally recommend all these places below where I stayed, play’d, pampered and indulged at below:

My Stay: ​Renaissance Hotel

This hotel is nestled in the heart of downtown on 4th street. The hotel itself is beautiful, it reminded me of a modern Art Deco. The room was very spacious, clean and perfect for my single oasis. The Renaissance offers an array of amenities such as a fitness center, pool - but I took the time just to enjoy finishing up some writing, watching tv and enjoying the big plush bed all to myself :) 

I felt very safe as there were hand sanitizers and safety precautions throughout the hotel – even the remote was sanitized. Honestly, this is the best way to social distance because you’re in a complete clean room by yourself. 

To book your stay at the Renaissance or check it out for more details click here: 

Where I Played: Saks Fifth Avenue ​

If you know me, then you know - I love everything about Saks Fifth Avenue. My earlier memory is going to Saks as a little girl with my mother and falling in love with all the beautiful shoes, bags and clothing. When I arrived at Saks I was greeted by one of my favorite associate friends, Guy who pulled me into a private shopping room so I could have some extra one-on-one attention looking at the newest arrivals. Even if I am just window shopping, I still love the experience and service I get at Saks. They are always patient and attentive to my needs - even if I don’t make a purchase. 

I also enjoyed checking out the beauty section and seeing what the latest Spring/Summer trends are - after all, it’s what I do - right? :)

Make sure you pay Saks a visit, even if it’s just to check out the latest styles/fashions or beauty products. 

Treat Yo Self: ​Umber 86

Umber 86 is a black owned business located Downtown on Walnut Street. It is an eclectic wax bar curated and dedicated to your healing and rejuvenation through body wax & vinyl. How cool is that!? 
I decided I needed a quick underarm wax; the service was very fast and friendly. The ambiance was nothing like I have seen before from a “wax bar” it definitely felt like I was in another place for my “staycation.” They have other full services ranging from pretty much anything you can think of to get waxed for both women and men.

Make sure you support this woman owned/black owned business in downtown by booking a wax appointment here:
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Treat Yo Self: Face it Spa/Lioresurgical ​

I paid a visit to one of the best kept secrets in downtown Cincinnati, Face It Spa owned by Giovanni Finocchiaro. It is a chic – urban spa bringing beauty to Downtown Cincinnati. If you follow me, you know I LOVE my skincare and getting facials regularly. The goal is to be pampered and I knew Face It Spa would not disappoint. I got a customized facial that I wanted to help with my hyper-pigmentation, glow and just to keep me looking youthful. Gio’s spa is so cute and intimate and allows you to get the right one-on-one pampering that you need. Check him out here

Dr. Gina joined Face It Spa with her newly opened Medspa, Lioresurgical.  After my facial I decided to get a little refresher on my Botox - win/win! She also specializes in other services to keep your skin looking tight and right! 
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If you want to keep your skin glowing, make sure you book a customized facial with Gio here:
If you’re interested in wrinkle relaxers, fillers and other Medspa services make sure you check out Dr. Gina here: 

What I Ate: ​Nada

This is my all-time FAVORITE Cincinnati restaurants. Every time I step inside, I feel I am transported to another country. The ambiance and décor is so chic, upbeat and fun – it’s the perfect place for me to end my “staycation” night and treat myself to an amazing meal all to myself. 

Here is the rundown on what I ate:

Queso:
This four-cheese devil is so addicting! It’s creamy and just the perfect bit of spice. I love putting my queso on anything I order from Nada – it’s that good!

O.G. Guacamole:
Now, my mama makes a pretty great guac, but Nada is my second favorite. The name and pictures explain it all. If you are a guac fan, this is for you!

Peruvian Chicken
This beer can roasted chicken is two words: DA BOMB. Oh my goodness, words can’t even describe how juicy and satisfying this chicken is. Now you can get a whole chicken or half order – I really think I could eat a whole all by myself – but kept it cute. It comes with fries aka “papas fritas” and two amazing sauces to dip everything in. It’s a must try!

Nadarita 
Got to have something to wash all this good food down with right!? Me and the Nadarita have been besties for years. Unlike most margaritas – the nadarita is very smooth. I will warn you; you’ll forget there is alcohol – so pace yourself and call an Uber ☺

To get your nada on’ make sure you book a reservation, even though not needed - but I would recommend, here:

There is something for everyone in this wonderful city! It may not look like mine, but you can find your new favorite things to do at CincinnatiExperience.com. So, get your mask on and get your Cincy on! (And tell em, Morgan sent you :))