It is with mixed emotions that I write this blog post today. In early 2016, I am moving to California with my boyfriend who is starting a new job. I am taking my gluten-free consulting business bi-coastal and will continue to be a strong celiac advocate for our community no matter where I live.
I love New York City so much which makes it so hard to leave. I have always lived within 90 miles of the city and I really never imagined living anywhere else. But life throws you a curve ball sometimes and this one has actually been in the works for about 10 months now. With a new year, the approaching winter, and the excitement of trying something new, the timing was right for this move to California.
As for my New York City posts, they will continue! I will be back and forth between CA and NY because my family still lives in New York. Also, I want to keep up my New York City guides and will always be happy to give you my top NYC tips.
In typical Gluten-Free Globetrotter style, I am researching an epic road trip with gluten-free stops all along the way. This is something I’ve always wanted to do but it is rare you get this chance to drive across the United States. We didn’t want to pass up this opportunity! I would love your input for our cross-country adventure. We are on a bit of a limited timeline so we might only be stopping for a meal or a night. Please leave any tips below in the comments.
Here are the cities we are hoping to pass through:
- Arlington, VA/Washington DC (this will be a family visit stop)
- Nashville, TN
- Memphis, TN
- Little Rock, AR
- Amarillos, TX
- Albuquerque, NM
- Flagstaff, AZ
- Las Vegas, NV and the Hoover Dam (I think I am most excited about this stop!!!)
- Santa Cruz, CA
Our final stop will be somewhere around Santa Cruz or San Jose, CA. I would LOVE all of your recommendations for the central west coast of California! I am going to eat my way up and down the coast.
Be sure to follow me on social media during my trip! I will post posting my Gluten-Free Globetrotter photos on Instagram and tweeting along the way.
Sounds like quite an adventure you’re embarking on, both the journey and the destination! I’m sure all kinds of unexpected opportunities will open up to you. Very best of luck and I look forward to seeing updates. I love a road trip!
Hey Erin! Let me help welcome you to California!! I live in the East San Francisco Bay Area. Danville. GF is not a given here. You will have to be careful. Places SAY they understand, but……….. L.A. is different. Everyone is GF, but its a fad diet. Just be careful.
Thank you so much for your tip. I will keep that in mind. I also find that GF is quite a trend here in NYC so I have my list of questions to ask a restaurant!
So sorry to hear you are leaving NYC, and yet so happy for you as you embark on a new adventure while continuing your advocacy, support, and growing business. Congratulations and best wishes.
Thank you so much Marianne! Please keep in touch via social media.
Well, if you change your travel line a tad and instead go though my hometown of Louisville, KY, I can direct you to some surprising finds there! Now I’m in the Seattle area and we have lots to choose from too, but not exactly on the way….
Thanks Kristen. I don’t think we will go through Kentucky on this trip but maybe another time!
Wow Erin, that’s a big move! Congrats on the next step on your journey, and I hope to connect with you once you are settled on the West coast. Happy holidays! –Cece
Thanks Cece! It will definitely be a big change but a fun way to start 2016.
Erin – if you can snag a Catbird Seat res in Nashville…go! Husk is also outstanding. Rendezvous and Central BBQ in Memphis!
Thanks Jenna!! We aren’t sure how long we will be in each city (a few hours to overnight) but I love having suggestions. Are all good with gluten-free? Thanks!
You will be a success no matter where you go! California is lucky to have you! Wish you were coming through Houston! Best wishes, sweet friend!
Thank you so much Kimberly! This is going to be a big change for this New Yorker, but quite the adventure. I will honk when I hit Texas. 🙂