For spring break this year, I decided not to venture too far off from good ‘ol USC. Instead, I chose to take advantage of the amazing food and fun we have in Southern California.

First up, I took a stroll around Irvine. South Coast Plaza is an amazing mall and it’s so close to the Segerstrom Center for the Arts (SCFTA)! I wrote a review about SCFTA on Yelp, because I’m in love with their selection of artists, broadways, ballets and symphonies every season. In the past I’ve been to SCFTA to see the American Ballet Theater, Bolshoi Ballet, Kirov Ballet and the Pacific Symphony in concert… and I hope to see many more!

My view of the Kirov Ballet (taking a bow after performing Giselle)

My aunt visited me over the break and I took her to my favorite Lebanese restaurant, Cafe Matinee. It’s a cozy little mom-and-pop restaurant in Lake Forest and they have the best kabobs/skewers!! If you happen by there and see people with bright red drinks, it’s Rose Juice! My friend and I were curious our first time there, so we ordered some. It smelled lovely, but felt like drinking perfume to me! It’s supposedly very healthy, so it doesn’t hurt to try it… it just might be your cup of tea.

I didn’t go salsa dancing at all, because my sprained ankle is still in recovery. I was able to head to the coast several times though, once to check out Laguna Beach and another time to go fishing.

The rising sun @ Dana Wharf

Dana Wharf has sportfishing and whale watching facilities. It was my first time fishing and it was one heck of an adventure. My friend Andy and I caught rock fish while others caught bass, cod, and halibut. That was definitely one of the highlights of my week.

Tons of birds (and seals!) flocking the bait supply dock

Overall I had a nice, relaxing spring break that took me to a mental place far from the hustle and bustle of classes, midterms and dance rehearsals. It was a nice change. I do have two midterms this week, so I’m kicking it into high gear ASAP! Wish me luck.

I hope everyone has a fantastic spring break of their own!