the biggest little weekend in Reno & Tahoe

The plan was St. Maarten and our group of five was ready for a weekend in the Caribbean.  Unfortunately, the non-rev gods had other plans and last minute, we found ourselves on a flight to Reno, Nevada instead.  We didn't know what to do in Reno and we had no set intentions, but that's the power of spontaneity, right?  Without any preconceived notions or well laid plans, we spent a weekend in the biggest little city in the world.  

Like most tourists, we started our day with a walk around town.  Local food, strong coffee, and a walk through the downtown is pretty standard for getting to know a new city.  Our crew was impressed with the scenery, the bright blue sky, and the just right amount of kitch.  

As one does in Reno, we spent a lot of time in the Casino.  Our home base was The Peppermill Resort & Spa, and I can honestly say, I have never seen anything quite like it!  

Since Lake Tahoe is less than an hour drive from Reno, we decided to leave the bright lights behind us, and spend some time in nature.  We accidentally went the wrong way on the highway for an hour and then had to turn around and drive back, so the 45 minute ride, turned into a 3 hour road trip.  How did we actually survived before GPS, I'll never know!  We were all mesmerized by the beauty and didn't mind the extra time in the car.  After a quick bit to eat at a perfect mountain lodge, we saw the magnificent Lake Tahoe...covered in fog.  

Because we couldn't get enough of The Peppermill, in all it's neon glory, we had dinner back at the hotel, in the under-the-sea spectacular, Oceano.  After all, who doesn't love sushi, in a shady hotel, in the middle of landlocked America?  I have to admit it, the sushi was good, the drinks came in fishbowls, and our group of 20-somethings, couldn't have been happier.  It wasn't the Caribbean, but at least we were at the ocean :)

Love ya, Reno! xoxo

ps. A quick skim of The Peppermill website and I'm sorry to say that the casino and restaurant seem to have lost there neon decor.  RIP my little neon fish friends.