Meet Mary Farah | Travel Writer & Social Media Marketing Manager

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mary Farah and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mary, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Just like we’re born left or right-handed, I feel the same is true for whether we cling towards the arts or not. For me, I was writing short stories and creating plays for my stuffed animals at a very young age. I’m definitely not a science or math person and recall dreading science days in kindergarten but going crazy when we had a puppet show or storytime. These early memories certainly molded me into the creative individual I am today. For me, nothing is more magical than when I’ve written an article on a great trip I’ve been on, or when I’m able to help a client succeed in their marketing/online goals.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
While there’s certainly plenty of travel bloggers and journalists, I’d like to think I’ve created an authentic voice. I’m gluten-free due to allergy as well as being a Type One Diabetic. Knowing first hand that these labels can make you feel different or restricted, I’ve been fortunate to write my own narrative and set out to show others that they can travel and live life to its fullest. All while reporting on the best gluten-free dishes in a new city.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Being a California native, Huell Howser is one of my biggest inspirations. The Golden State offers such a vast range of opportunities and experiences that there’s literally something for everyone. I’d start us out in LA and hit up Rockwell Table and Stage and Dresden in Los Feliz, catch a gig at Hollywood Bowl and spend a day in Pasadena at the Huntington Library and food hopping along Colorado Boulevard. Being gluten-free and loving vegan cuisine, we’d dine at True Food Kitchen and Sage Bistro. We’d then head up the coast for some day-tripping in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. While there, we’d keep busy along Santa Barbara’s State Street and visit their botanic gardens and rose garden at the mission. Up in SLO, no visit is complete without foodie stops at Mint+Craft and the Big Sky Cafe, as well as Apple Farm and ice cream at Dr. Bernstein’s. Cambria and Cayucos off of Highway One are secret gems that I love to introduce friends to. Ideal for pit stops and lunch/dinner. Next up, we’d stay in San Mateo County and explore Palo Alto, Half Moon Bay, and Burlingame. All quaint towns loaded with adorable boutiques and more delicious food. Finally, we’d head to Mount Shasta and McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, one of my most favorite places.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m forever in debt to IFWTWA, the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association. This group of extremely accomplished travel, food, and wine journalists plucked a young punk writer and took a chance on her membership application. I’m currently on their Executive Board of Directors, Editorial, and Conference Committee.

Website: www.alongcomesmaryblog.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alongcomesmary26/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/maryfarquhar
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alongcomesmary26/