A Tennessee Twofer

Stops in Nashville and Memphis

Hi friends!

After my epic stop in Asheville, it was time to start heading west (and also catch up on my rest!). My next stop was the Country Music Capital of the World, Nashville, TN. I’ve driven through Nashville plenty of times with my family when we would drive to Florida but had never visited as an adult.

My first stop was at the iconic Bluebird Cafe for my niece, Avery. When I told her that I was stopping by Nashville her first question was “Aunt Meg, are you going to the Bluebird Cafe? That’s where Taylor Swift played!” So I couldn’t let my Swiftie-loving girl down. Even though I got there way before they opened, I STILL didn’t get in for open mic night. Ugh, fail. But I think Aves still got a kick out of the quick video I sent her from her requested location.

Next was heading down to Broadway, home of the honkey tonks. I stopped by Tootsies Orchid Lounge, Acme Feed & Seed, Friends in Low Places (Garth Brooks’ bar) and Rippy’s. It was cool to see but I think if you go you need to really, really, really like country music and really, really, really like to get shitfaced. I like country music but I don’t love it. And getting shitfaced…well, I still had to work that week. So there’s that.

Speaking of, I did discover the art of working at bars! Usually, coffee shops are my jam but I was able to get some work done at YeeHaw Brewing Company / White Duck Taco Shop and Hopsmith Nashville. Both were awesome spots and workday-approved.

Overall, I’ve got to admit, I didn’t love Nashville and think it’s overhyped. I think it’s got an identity conflict — it wants to be old school and original country but also new and trendy. Can’t make up its mind. And it was LOUD everywhere from the construction to the coffee houses. I didn’t hate Nashville but I didn’t love it either. But nonetheless, I’m glad I stopped and found this out for myself! The whole point of traveling right?

Next up was an overnight stop in Memphis. Admittedly, I really misjudged the Home of the Blues. I hadn’t heard great things and almost drove past it. Honestly, I wish I would have spent one less day in Nashville and one more in Memphis. First off, the people in Memphis were SO nice! I stayed downtown at the Hu Hotel, which had an incredible rooftop bar that overlooked the Mighty Mississippi. The sunset was gorgeous and rivaled the ones in Florida (almost!).

The next day, I had some work meetings in the morning but luckily had a late checkout. Before I left town, I knew I had to check out the iconic Beale Street. It did NOT disappoint! Beale Street was so authentic and just had an awesome vibe to it. I would have loved to stop in some of the clubs when the live music was going but unfortunately, I had to move on. But I would definitely visit Memphis again, even just for a day or two.

So far, the travels have been pretty smooth! My car is hanging in there like the badass she is. I’m getting more into a groove of working, driving, and exploring — even if it means taking meetings at a gas station parking lot or a random Subway (thank God for my cell hotspot!). That’s the beauty of being a digital nomad / remote worker — I just need my laptop, internet, and a power outlet and the world is my oyster. :)

Next up is the Natural State of Arkansas!

Love and light,
MW