Want to skip town for a little? Here’s how you can for cheap. | Photo via Flickr
Want to visit Europe on a budget? Check out these tickets for less than $500, and get away for a long weekend at the end of January.
Note: These trips are all from Friday, Jan. 23 to Tuesday, Jan. 27. Prices will vary depending on the dates you select.
Madrid
With a couple of options for this trip, you can get a one-stop flight to Madrid for $489. On the way out, the flight has a layover at Charlotte Douglas International Airport and then stops at John F. Kennedy International Airport on the way back.
Dublin
Let’s go have a real Guinness. Snag these tickets to Dublin, Ireland, for just $452. This specific flight has one stop on the way out at John F. Kennedy International Airport and two on the way back at Toronto Pearson International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
A perfume boutique with an emphasis on unique scents is opening in Old Town Alexandria on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at 5:30 p.m. Arielle Shoshana will then have its official grand opening on Saturday, Jan. 24 from 3-6 p.m. Cocktails and mocktails will be available to sip on while you find your new scent. (ALXnow)
Coming Soon
Makers Union and Milk & Honey Southern Inspired Kitchen are opening at the East Gate Marketplace in the South Riding area. This follows the news of the closings of Social House and Velocity Wings in the shopping center. (The Burn)
Shop
We have Etsy at home. A new jewelry store is opening in Ballston Quarter that will highlight female Etsy sellers. Dov & Company will sell items like earrings, rings, and necklaces. (ARLnow)
Eat
The team behind Magnolia’s at the Mill in Purcellville is opening a new spot called Maggie’s Corner Cafe. This new cafe will open at 713 East Main St., the location previously occupied by Le Petit Loulou. Stay tuned for an opening date. (The Burn)
Pets
Look at this sweet pup. The 2026 TSA Canine Calendar features a dog from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Meet Rosh, a German Shorthaired Pointer, who’s featured for the month of December.
Mailbag
A big thank you to Lydia E., Joseph N., Helen B., and Jenessa C. for participating in my recent interactive Wrap and sending a snail emoji. I always appreciate our readers engaging with the newsletter and taking the time to reach out.
Finance
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The first round of the NFL playoffs takes place this weekend, with six Wild Card games on the schedule. Whoever you’re rooting for, NOVA’s sports bars are the best places to soak in the atmosphere and see who makes it one step closer to Super Bowl LX.
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