15 minute read
TRENDING TALK
Keeping Romance Alive
By Esther C. Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR
ROMANTIC ENCOUNTERS FEEL WONDERFUL AND WE WISH THEY COULD LAST. THESE POWERFUL EMOTIONS ARE INTOXICATING AND MAY INSPIRE UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS FOR A CONTINUING RELATIONSHIP. ALAS, ROMANTIC INTERLUDES KEEP RELATIONSHIPS FRESH AND ALIVE YET ARE NOT THE STUFF OF EVERYDAY LIFE. SUCCESSFUL COUPLES LEARN HOW TO CREATE AND SAVOR ROMANTIC MOMENTS TOGETHER.
“People with common interests are often attracted to each other, however, it is important that each person be respected as a unique and independent individual.”
Romance and affection, the outward expressions of inward feelings, are indispensible aspects of nurturing loving relationships. And, of course, sexual passion and amorous feelings help partners to feel cherished and treasured by each other.
Physical chemistry between two people is real and exciting and cannot be manufactured or ignored. However, feelings are not the primary glue for committed partners. Rather, friendship, trust, and respect provide the foundation for a relationship’s longevity and meaning.
Since romantic moments cannot be sustained indefinitely, here are a few tips to help avoid disappointments and regrets that may jeopardize opportunities for future pleasure.
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MANAGE EXPECTATIONS
People are not static — needs, desires and priorities change over time. Therefore, we need to be realistic about expectations — our own as well as those of our partners. And, be especially mindful of keeping love and passion alive.
CLARIFY COMMUNICATION
If you think that your partner should be able to read your mind about your wishes, needs and wants, understand that this is rarely possible. Trying to do it is hard and is NOT an expression of, or proof of, whether or not someone loves you. Clear communication is vital to establishing trust and safety within a relationship and speaking up is vital. It is important that your words and actions match in order to convey your meaning loud and clear. Lack of open, honest communication can cause stress and distrust.
SHOW RESPECT
People with common interests are often attracted to each other, however, it is important that each person be respected as a unique and independent individual. What matters most is how you treat your partner, regardless of how either of you may feel at a particular moment. In fact, it is often the individual differences that provide the most interest and fun in a relationship.
FAIR FIGHTING
People are imperfect individuals and life can be complicated, as disagreements and problems will arise. It’s not what happens in life that matters so much. Rather, it’s how we handle things and what they mean to us that count. When difficulties and conflicts occur, address them truthfully, and do it sooner rather than later. Communicate clearly and respectfully in order to identify and resolve the right problem and work towards a mutually beneficial outcome.
PRIORITIZE YOUR RELATIONSHIP
Be intentional about treasuring your partner by keeping the lines of communication open and clean. Be sure to show your feelings of affection and regard because actions matter and help to keep romance alive.
ENDURING RELATIONSHIPS
Shed your unrealistic and idealized notions of a perfect relationship — of having a soul mate meet your every need. Genuine connection and partnership thrives when each individual contributes to creating a meaningful, secure and joyful relationship. Because so much of communication is non-verbal, actions and romance are tangible ways of letting your partner know the depth and breadth of your feelings, affection and respect. v
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Carlsbad
The SoCal Local’s Home Away From Home
One of the wonderful aspects about Southern California is that you can live here and still choose a Southland destination to visit on vacation. Most residents have vehicles, so a two-hour drive can transport a family to a resort that can make the trip feel like it’s a million miles away from home. The North San Diego County town of Carlsbad, with its scenic 7-mile coastline and year-round near perfect climate, is a Staycationer’s top choice when considering a drive-to getaway. With attractions like LEGOLAND, Del Mar Racetrack, USS Midway Museum, San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, the Sea Life Aquarium, and the seasonal Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, there is enough amusement to entertain every age group. Selecting the right hotel to call home while visiting is the key to ensuring a visit to Carlsbad is extraordinary both indoors and out. We choose three of our favorites to spotlight.
Park Hyatt Aviara
AN ELEGANT RESORT SET ON MORE THAN 200 LUSH ACRES, PARK HYATT AVIARA IS A FORBES FIVESTAR AND AAA FIVE DIAMOND RESORT LOCATED ADJACENT TO THE BATIQUITOS LAGOON. THE PROPERTY UNDERWENT AN EXTENSIVE $50+ MILLION RENOVATION IN 2020 AND EVERYTHING THE EYE CAN SEE IS STYLISH AND CHIC.
By Monique Reidy
The entrance to the hotel’s expansive lobby is a hint of the luxury to follow; a wood and crystal lighting fixture hangs overhead, carved hardwood and marble flooring lays underfoot, and a straight glance ahead reveals a grand opening to the majestic outdoor space. There is plenty of midcentury modern furniture in natural woods and coastal-toned fabrics throughout the resort, inviting guests to sit, relax, and take in the beachy vibe.
There are 327 guestrooms, including 43 suites and each include patios and balconies. In room, guests enjoy sumptuous pillow-top beds, complimentary internet access, 55” flat-panel TVs with premium channels, a refrigerator, Bose stereo, premium Le Labo bath toiletries and plush robes.
The pet-friendly Park Hyatt Aviara includes a family pool with cabanas, a water park and a two-story slide, and an adult pool with private cabanas. Aviara Spa
offers wellness treatments that include an array of massage and skincare services using natural, organic ingredients. The 15,000 square-foot space features 20 treatment rooms, including a couples’ suite with a fireplace, saunas, steam rooms, a jacuzzi, a semi-private pool, and Swiss shower. There is a 24hour fitness center with state-ofthe-art equipment, and six tennis courts with an instructional program for those who prefer to burn their calories outdoors.
Golf enthusiasts love Park Hyatt Aviara because the property features a Topgolf Swing Suite on the lobby level. This immersive experience offers friendly competition to an array of multisport games presented on a large digital screen. The resort is also home to the LPGA Kia Classic professional golf tournament, which takes place on Southern California’s only coastal designed Arnold Palmer signature golf course, Aviara Golf Club.
When it’s time to refuel after all that activity, there are a variety of eateries on site to satisfy most any craving:
•PONTO LAGO, Park Aviara’s signature fine dining spot, is open for breakfast and dinner and offers spectacular ocean views with every meal. This Baja-California inspired menu features dishes like the Quail, Capucin Oyster Flambé, Chistorra Sausage, and daily chef specials. H
•PACIFIC POINT LOBBY BAR is centrally located on the lobby level and features indoor and terrace seating. It’s the perfect spot to grab a casual bite and sip a magical cocktail while enjoying sweeping views of the ocean and the property’s outdoor gardens.
•WATER’S EDGE is the poolside bar that offers handcrafted cocktails, along with beautiful coastal views, swaying palm trees and the surrounding rolling hills.
•EMBER & RYE opened in March 2021 and is the new signature restaurant created in collaboration with Chef Richard Blais and the Aviara Golf Club. Blais, the winner of Top Chef All-Stars Season 8, created an exquisite menu that features dishes like Pork Belly Char Siu, Arctic Char Flambadou, Oysters & Pearls, and Sherry Glazed Mushrooms with black truffle butter. Ember & Rye is located along the award-winning golf course, offering striking views both inside and out. The contemporary decor offers a clubhouse experience with a bold color palette with brass and black accents throughout.
•AVIARA MARKET is located on the lobby level and serves freshly made pastries, coffee, sandwiches, and snacks.
•INROOM DINING is offered 24hours daily.
As a premier luxury resort, Park Hyatt Aviara offers so many events and activities it can be described as a city unto itself. While the property is a perfect escape for families and couples, it is also ideal for a girls’ weekend away, an unforgettable wedding and a superb honeymoon experience. H
PARK HYATT AVIARA 7100 Aviara Resort Drive Carlsbad, CA 92011 (760) 448-1234 www.parkhyattaviara.com
The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa
By Janine Goldberg
FROM THE MOMENT YOU TURN INTO THE PERFECTLY LANDSCAPED ENTRANCE TO WHEN YOU STEP INTO THE GRAND LOBBY, GUESTS KNOW THEY ARE ESCAPING TO A LUXURIOUS RETREAT. FROM STAYCATIONS TO CORPORATE RETREATS AND WEDDINGS, THE PETFRIENDLY WESTIN HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. DESPITE THE SIZE OF THE PROPERTY, THE WELL DESIGNED LAYOUT LEAVES YOU FEELING LIKE YOU ARE IN A MUCH MORE INTIMATE ENVI RONMENT. IF YOU WANT TO KEEP YOUR CAR PARKED, THE COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE TAKES GUESTS ANYWHERE WITHIN A 5MILE RADIUS.
The beautifully decorated lobby offers plenty of seating areas, a working station with computers and printers and a Market Place to grab your morning coffee and all-day snacks and beverages. Just outside the lobby is a California inspired outdoor living area with more than seven luxurious conversational areas, many with a glass enclosed fire pit – great place to catch up with friends or colleagues over a glass of wine.
The Westin’s guest room offerings range from spacious suites with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean to thoughtfully appointed guest rooms - each giving guests a personalized experience. All rooms have the signature Westin Heavenly Bed, large work desk, free Wi-Fi, coffee maker, LG LCD TVs and more. With views of the Carlsbad coastline, guests can rejuvenate in their room before heading out for the evening. It is worth noting that the Grand View building offers all coastal facing views. Because the guest
“THE WESTIN’S GUEST ROOM OFFERINGS RANGE FROM SPACIOUS SUITES WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE PACIFIC OCEAN TO THOUGHTFULLY APPOINTED GUEST ROOMS EACH GIVING GUESTS A PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE.“
rooms are located away from the main gathering areas of the property, they offer a feeling of tranquility. Guests can choose the Go Green option to receive a daily $20 resort credit to go toward amenities. There is Contactless Checkout, complimentary beach chair rental, complimentary beach towel rental, one-hour bike rental, access to the Business Center and free WiFi.
Located close to the lobby is the Oceania Swimming Pool and hot tub area, primed with plenty of lounge chairs for your choosing. The pool area also offers an outdoor pool table and ping pong table. If you bring the little ones, guests can take a short walk up to the Westin’s connecting sister property Sheraton, where they can enjoy the Sheraton’s pool and waterslide at no additional cost.
Want to keep the New Year fitness regime going? The Westin’s Fitness Center is open 24 hours and includes a Peloton bike and the iconic TRX Suspension trainer and New Balance Landing Gear. If you want to be outside, the hotel’s running map will give you plenty of choices. Time for a little R&R? You can enjoy the Ocean Pearl Spa for a massage, facial, body treatment and more. Currently closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Whether it’s an intimate gathering or large celebration, weddings are a big attraction to this pristine location. Be sure to check out the Terrace and adjacent Atrium ballroom when you’re ready to tie the knot. The Terrace offers incredible ocean views, a beautiful outside water feature and plenty of space for guests to mill around. There are other outdoor wedding options on site, including the Ocean Blue Lawn and the Pacific Lawn; where guests can take in the views of rolling lawns and open-air enjoyment. Additionally, there are several ballroom choices to satisfy every bride and groom.
The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa has 75,000 square feet of event space and because of the meeting rooms, they accommodate several groups of corporate retreats at one time. With an ample assortment of breakout rooms and conference space, it is an ideal location for the meetings of the minds. For small gatherings, the rooftop at the Grand View building offers the highest viewpoint in the entire resort.
Conveniently located within walking distance to the Westin, the Crossings at Carlsbad brings many visitors to the hotel. Guests can rent bikes or hit the links at this destination.
Food: 20/TWENTY is located off the lobby and offers an upscale dining experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The food is globally inspired and locally sourced here in SoCal. The dining room is bright and sophisticated and offers an offers an expansive terrace as well. The most popular dinner dishes include the lobster risotto, free range chicken, diver scallops, truffle mac n’ cheese, crispy brussels sprouts and steak options.
Market Place is located in the Westin lobby and is open 24 hours, serving snacks and Starbucks. A Grab & Go is located at the Sheraton and is open 7a.m.-9p.m., offering a variety of snacks, meals and drinks. 7 MILE KITCHEN, also located at the Sheraton, offers wood-fired pizzas, salads and more. There’s heated outdoor seating so guests can dine outside year round. H
THE WESTIN CARLSBAD RESORT & SPA 5480 Grand Pacific Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 827-2800 www.westincarlsbad.com
The Cassara Carlsbad
IF YOU’RE BRINGING THE FAMILY TO EXPLORE THE AREA, THE CASSARA CARLSBAD IS A MUSTSTAY HOTEL. THE PETFRIENDLY PROPERTY IS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED OFF HIGHWAY 5, FOOTSTEPS FROM LEGOLAND. IN FACT, YOU CAN SEE LEGOLAND FROM THE HOTEL’S MANY OUTDOOR VISTAS. THERE IS ALSO A COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE TO THE THEME PARK, LOCAL BEACHES, THE CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLET STORES AND MORE. ADDITIONALLY, THE CASSARA’S 12ACRE PROPERTY RESTS JUST ABOVE THE FAMED CARLSBAD FLOWER FIELDS AND MANY OF THE ROOMS DIRECTLY OVERLOOK THE GORGEOUS BLOOMS. DURING GROWING SEASON, THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VIEWS IN CARLSBAD’S 7MILE BEACH STRETCH. NEARBY CARLSBAD STRAWBERRY COMPANY HOSTS MANY FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENTS DURING THE YEAR AS WELL.
By Janine Goldberg
When you walk into The Cassara’s lobby your eyes are immediately drawn up to the massive, vaulted ceilings and Mediterranean tiled walls. With ample seating areas, guests can play mahjong, read in a hanging chair or visit with friends on the comfortable sofas and chairs. The inviting lobby bar also offers a main focal point in case you want to relax before heading to your room or after coming back from a day of exploring Carlsbad.
All the rooms at The Cassara have a quintessential California vibe and offer down comforters, plush pillows, ample lighting, power ports, 42-inch televisions with access to Showtime, Netflix, and movie channels, Keurig station, mini refrigerator, work desk, premium bath amenities, and Wi-Fi. Depending on the size of your party guests can choose from a Traditional Room, Premium Room or three choices of Suites. The Suites offer plenty of space to accommodate a family,
with extra bedrooms, televisions and living quarters. To help ensure guests a good night’s sleep, quiet hours are enforced from 10p.m.-7a.m.
There are two resort-sized pools, one designated as a “Quiet Pool” with lap lanes for those wanting to get in a workout. The Family Pool offers the opportunity for the younger guests to dive in and toys are also provided for the kids. Outdoor areas surrounding the pools offer fire pits and comfortable seating. The property sells s’more ingredients so guests can enjoy the popular late-night snack. A fitness center is also located on the property.
If your visit requires you to conduct business, The Cassara offers event space with panoramic views. There are several conference rooms to choose from on the property as well. The intimate outdoor wedding site continues to be a favorite of local guests due to the views and top-notch service.
On-Site food options focus around The Cassara Kitchen and Bar (located in the lobby) which offers dine in or Grab & Go options. Their Mediterraneaninspired bites with a SoCal twist, are primarily
sourced from regional and local ingredients. They also offer craft cocktails and a wine list, so guests won’t leave thirsty. There is also a marketplace off the lobby in case you forgot an essential item or want to purchase a snack or drink. Room service is currently unavailable.
Karl Strauss Brewery & Restaurant shares a parking lot with The Cassara, making it very convenient for hotel guests to enjoy a delicious meal. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this pet and kidfriendly restaurant offers 17 handcrafted beers on tap. Many of their micro-beers have been voted “Best in San Diego” for seven consecutive years. If you don’t have time to enjoy the outdoor patio or lively indoor dining space, food and drink can travel with you back to your room. Karl Strauss is a favorite with the locals. v
THE CASSARA CARLSBAD 5805 Armada Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008 (833) 447-9195 www.thecassaracarlsbad.com
“Outdoor areas surrounding the pools offer fire pits and comfortable seating. The property sells s’more ingredients so guests can enjoy the popular late-night snack.”
