Roberts
ON THE COVER
Robin and Danny Klaes
By Gittings
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Laurette M. Veres
MANAGING
EDITOR
Karen Balla
DESIGN
Princeton Fernandes
EDITORIAL
Laurette M. Veres
Zenah Al-Naimi
Esmerelda Bustos
Haley Lamb
Warner Roberts
© Copyright 2026-2027
InsideHoustonMagazine.com
InsideHoustonEditor@gmail.com
Spring in Houston has a way of arriving quietly and then, almost overnight, transforming everything. Azaleas burst into color, patios fill with laughter, and the city begins to stretch into longer, lighter days. It’s a season that invites us outside—to travel, to gather, and to savor the small rituals that make life feel beautiful again. That spirit is exactly what inspired this issue.
Feature writer, and Houston Sweetheart Warner Roberts, joins us in celebrating ten remarkable Houstonians whose philanthropic work helps shape the heart of our city. Their generosity and dedication remind us that Houston’s true beauty is found in its people.
We celebrate the sense of renewal through travel, style, and everyday indulgences. For those dreaming of an escape, we take you to the turquoise shores of St. Maarten, where island rhythms and Caribbean breezes create the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. We also explore the magic of Tulum, a destination that continues to captivate travelers with its white-sand beaches, soulful energy, and luxurious retreats that blend seamlessly with nature.
Of course, spring style deserves its own moment. This season, the timeless trench coat takes center stage. Effortlessly chic and endlessly versatile, the trench is the perfect layer for Houston’s unpredictable spring weather—elegant enough for an evening out and practical enough for a breezy afternoon stroll through the city. Our fashion editor Zenah highlights the newest silhouettes, fabrics, and styling ideas that prove this classic piece is anything but ordinary.
And because no spring morning feels complete without a great cup of coffee, we’ve also curated a guide to seasonal coffee selections that are as refreshing as the season itself. Think bright citrus notes, floral hints, and lighter roasts that pair perfectly with slow mornings and sunny patios. Whether you prefer a perfectly pulled espresso or an iced latte enjoyed in the warmth of a Houston morning, these selections are a small luxury worth savoring.
What makes this issue especially meaningful is how it reflects the rhythm of the season—fresh, vibrant, and full of possibility.
As you turn the pages, I hope this issue inspires you to travel somewhere beautiful, refresh your style, and carve out time for the small pleasures that make life richer. After all, spring is not just a season—it’s a feeling.
Warmest regards,
Editor-in-Chief
Laurette
by
Houston’s social set gathered at the dazzling Doc’s Houston Jazz Club for The Social Book’s 21st annual “Houston Treasures” Awards Gala, themed “…and All That Jazz.” Celebrating three decades of publication, The Social Book honored its 2026 class of philanthropists, civic leaders, and changemakers with a four-course dinner, sparkling wines, and lively jazz standards from a 12-piece band. Emerald-and-gold décor, towering floral displays, and heartfelt video tributes set the stage for an unforgettable evening— proving once again that in Houston, generosity and glamour make beautiful music together.
Photos by Joanna Jiang and JH Photography
More than 200 guests gathered at Hotel ZaZa–Museum District for The Health Museum’s Annual Health Heroes Gala, raising a recordbreaking $430,000 to support innovative health education programs. The evening honored Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale, introduced by her father, Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, in a heartfelt tribute to her mental health advocacy. With elegant florals, a spirited live auction, and inspiring stories from student participants, the gala beautifully showcased the Museum’s mission to spark curiosity, advance science education, and build a healthier future for Houston.
Nearly 350 guests gathered for The Women’s Home’s annual Falling for Fashion Luncheon, a stylish afternoon that raised $253,000 to support women rebuilding their lives. Chaired by Lara Bell Milam and Suzanne Stiles, the event blended philanthropy and flair with a runway show featuring Cottage Thrift Shop fashions. Honorees included Elaine Turner and DRW, while a surprise $200,000 gift from Bank of America elevated the celebration. Powerful testimonials and autumn-inspired elegance underscored the organization’s life-changing mission.
More than 500 guests gathered at Hilton Americas–Houston as IM Houston unveiled “A Brand New Day” at its 2025 Tapestry Gala, raising an impressive $650,000. The evening celebrated unity, renewal, and the organization’s reimagined future under new President and CEO Sheroo Mukhtiar. With interfaith blessings from local children, stirring performances by Christina Wells, and recognition of community leaders, the event beautifully reflected IM Houston’s mission—bringing diverse faiths together in service, compassion, and hope for a stronger, more connected city.
An intimate evening in River Oaks welcomed guests from Houston Entrepreneur Organization for a rare fireside chat with George DeMontrond III inside one of his stunning private residences. Over cocktails and light bites from Culinaire Catering, the respected business leader shared candid reflections on entrepreneurship, resilience, and community impact. The relaxed gathering offered meaningful conversation, insider insight, and an elegant glimpse into leaving a legacy in Houston.
Red heart-shaped balloons floated toward the ceiling, champagne sparkled in crystal flutes, and guests arrived in dazzling shades of pink and crimson for the 15th Annual Houston Sweetheart Tea, benefiting The Mission of Yahweh. Hosted at Saks Fifth Avenue, the beloved tradition once again proved that philanthropy is most powerful when paired with friendship and gratitude.
What began as a simple, heartfelt gesture among friends has blossomed into one of Houston’s most charming charitable gatherings. Founders Anne Carl, Deborah Duncan, Sylvia Forsythe, Kim Moody, Warner Roberts and Alicia Smith originally envisioned the tea as a way to say thank you to those who give so generously to the community. Fifteen years later, that spirit of appreciation continues to define the event.
Nearly 100 guests embraced the invitation’s request for “Sweetheart Attire,” donning playful prints of hearts and florals in romantic hues. The atmosphere was joyful yet purposeful — a celebration grounded in meaningful impact.
Warner Roberts welcomed attendees before introducing Heidi Turney, Vice President and General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue, who shared her pride in the store’s long-standing support of the event. The program then turned to Deborah Duncan, cohost and longtime advocate, who offered a moving overview of The Mission of Yahweh’s work. As Duncan explained, the organization is a unique refuge in Houston, providing food, clothing and shelter to homeless women and children while also committing to rehabilitation and long-term self-sufficiency.
The highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the 2026 Houston Sweethearts, each honored for an extraordinary record of service and community leadership. This year’s celebrated honorees included Farida Abjani; Debbie and Roger Clemens; Caroline Esses; Brittney Herbert Franklin; Jordan Seff; and Michelle Verbois Wasaff.
Fifteen years in, the Houston Sweetheart Tea remains a testament to the power of women gathering not only to celebrate one another, but to uplift those in need. With hearts aligned and generosity flowing, this milestone year was both a reflection of impact achieved and a promise of meaningful work still to come.
Norris Centers marked its 35th anniversary with a festive celebration filled with culinary delights. Guests enjoyed chef-curated bites, wine and cheese pairings, craft beer tastings, and a sweet-and-salty station. The lively evening reflected the venue’s legacy of hospitality, bringing friends and supporters together to toast three-and-a-half decades of success.
Nearly 100 supporters gathered at Park House to toast the launch of Breakthrough T1D’s Promise Ball, themed “A Night in Black & White.” Hosted by Chairs Alexandra and Richard Bruskoff, the chic evening featured lush florals, a signature spicy margarita dubbed “The Cure,” and gourmet bites. Guests left with personalized leather keepsakes while learning about the gala at Hilton Americas–Houston, which will honor philanthropic families and champion groundbreaking type 1 diabetes research.
CHAIRS
April 11, 2026, 6:30 p.m.
HILTON AMERICAS-HOUSTON
Ballroom of the Americas
Alexandra & Rich Bruskoff
HONOREES
The Judy & Bob Morgan Family
The Amy & Tim Haskell Family
FUND A CURE FAMILY
Elizabeth & James Elder
MEREDITH AND FIELDING COCKE VISIONARY AWARD
Linda Brown
Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) is the leading global organization funding Type1 diabetes (T1D) research. Our strength lies in our exclusive focus and singular influence on the world wide effort to end T1D. We are improving lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat T1D and its complications.
For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.breakthrought1d.org/greaterhoustontx/events/breakthrough-t1dhouston-promise-ball-2026/
By Zenah Al-Naimi
Finally, the frost of winter has melted into the milder breezes of spring causing fashion’s spotlight to turn its focus to outerwear that doesn’t just keep you warm but also shows practicality in the way you dress. You intentionally choose a coat that makes a statement
but will also keep you dry and warm in the rainy and often chilly spring air. That statement for decades has always belonged to the trench coat, a blend of classic, structured silhouettes and functionality that define how to dress for this transitional season we call spring.
At the heart of this iconic outerwear is a fun and trendy twist to an already classic silhouette: the cropped trench coat. A freshly updated take on a timeless piece that has dominated runways and the hearts of fashionistas alike. This season’s outerwear staples are no exception, and we are going to tell how to spot them, style them and what to look for in choosing your stylish outerwear for spring.
First of all, the cropped trench coat is not a new concept, but it has emerged as the must wear coat for spring according to fashion blogs like Vogue Arabia and Elle. Remember, we are trying to be practical with our outerwear, so if you live in certain parts of Texas where the spring temperatures get as low as Southern California temperatures on a warm day, then it probably doesn’t serve you to have a full-length coat. You might enjoy the practicality and functionality of the cropped trench, while still being stylish. This waist- grazing trench style still exudes the timeless elegance of traditional trenches but with a fun and youthful twist. It is also lighter, sportier and easier to wear with everyday outfits like a cropped white tee, jeans and sneakers.
While keeping the structured silhouette of the classic trench, this style also works very well with your favorite knit sweater. A bright colored knit makes this outfit lean more to the spring side than a winter look. It’s a look that feels classic yet with the times and season, blending functionality and fashion that reflects the seasons vibe of ease and freshness.
Spring coats are not all hyper focused on the classics not the ultra-elegant. If you are like me, more times than not, you are rocking your favorite athleisure wear, a cute matching set from NIKE but still athleisure none the less. Sometimes juxtaposition in an outfit is what makes it fashionable, but athleisure wear and a trench coat is not one of those moments. Instead opt for a windbreaker or a sport inspired shell coat with a funnel neck or zip up fronts, stylish but still very casual. Pair seamlessly with a pair of sneakers and your favorite athleisure set for an elevated sporty look.
While cropped trenches play with proportion, structured, big bold shapes play with the drama of spring layering and fashion in general. Think exaggerated shoulders, sharp and unexpected contrast and color blocks. These defined frames that remind us of the 80’s without being too nostalgic. Power shoulders are considered this year’s style statement for fashion lovers looking to go bigger and bolder for spring. Think oversized shoulder pads, crisp tailoring and sculptural coats that will become the topic of conversation in every room you walk into.
WEATHER READY YET STYLISH
You don’t have to choose between staying warm and dry through April showers and looking stylish. This year’s trend is more focused on the functionality of the coat than it is on whether it was seen on the runway. So, if you are thinking you must scour the internet to find the perfect trench- think again. Lightweight waterproof parkas are also on the trend list this year, mixing performance and fabrics with stylish details.
There is no point in wearing something that will not withstand the spring rain but will turn heads at your local shopping center. The key to this year’s trend is that your outerwear is capable of both.
If all else fails and you can’t let go of your reliable puffer that has served you well throughout the years, focus your sights on the colors you wear. Spring’s palette is one that is very dynamic. Soft pastels, especially pastel blues and buttery yellows lend a helping hand in achieving that springtime brightness that contrasts sharply with winter’s darker and duller tones.
Keep out your neutrals though, warm beiges, camel of course and toned-down earth tones such as Terracotta or Sage green. Easy to match with other colors these colors alone expand the pairing styling selection of your wardrobe. This blend of fresh and classic tones ensures that whether wearing a cropped trench, structured coat or a sporty shell jacket that the coat remains a wardrobe staple rather than a specific season staple.
Photos by Zenah Al-Naimi
HOW TO WEAR THE SPRING 2026 COAT TREND
So, remember when styling yourself this season consider a fresh and modern take on the classic and elegant trench coat, style with jeans and loafers for a polished and elegant look. You can still dress sporty and have a stylish outerwear that matches if you go for something with a relaxed and tailored silhouette. Elevate a basic outerwear with an outfit that is interesting in color and vibrant to exude that spring energy. Whether you prefer breezy pastels, structural drama or strictly functional pieces, outerwear this spring is all about functionality with personality. Both statements and reliable, Spring fashion is all about emerging out with confidence.
By Warner Roberts
This is an article that I love writing, but I must say it is not an easy one. There are so many beautiful people in our city of 2.305 million doing beautiful things for others. It is always a daunting task to select so few. This is my nineteenth year to present this article for our previous magazine, H Texas and for current Inside Houston. Also, this article appears for the fourth year on Scott Evans’ socialbook.com.
I define beauty as the ability to spread joy, lift spirits, encourage and inspire; and this beauty is measured by service to others. With that definition in mind, we present 10 Most Beautiful Couples and Individuals who are not only physically captivating, but they make our city more beautiful through their generosity of spirit, compassion, creativity, and dedication to service. My mother and yours had their own definition of beauty: “Beauty is as Beauty Does!”
Maria Moncada Alaoui is the Porsche Vice President for Sonic Automotive. She is dedicated to giving back to the community with an emphasis on helping children. For the eighteenth year, she has served on the board of Houston Children’s Charity, and for the past twelve years, her former employer, BMW, and current employer, Porsche, have donated a brand-new vehicle for the annual gala auction. Alaoui serves on the advisory council of Altus Global Network and on the board of KnowAutism Foundation. Previously, she served on the board of The Latino Learning Center and supports Bo’s Place, The Lupus Foundation, Houston Food Bank and Houston Texans Foundation. Alaoui credits her husband, Omar, with being her strongest supporter and source of encouragement, along with her amazing stepson, Joseph.
Photo by Dave Rossman
Fady Armanious has loved fashion since he was a young boy. Now, as creative director of the luxury women’s boutique, Tootsies, he attends fashion shows in New York, Paris and Milan to bring the latest fashions back to his faithful Houston clients. Armanious’ life partner is Bill Baldwin, broker and owner of Boulevard Realty, one of Houston’s premier Heights real estate firms. Together, they recently co-chaired the annual Lyndon B. Johnson Moral Courage Award Dinner for Holocaust Museum Houston. When co-chairing the Ballet Opening Night Dinner Onstage, they broke all previous records. The second-floor Health & Wellness Lobby of the Montrose Clinic is named in Armanious’ honor. Baldwin was named “2025 Realtor of the Year” by HAR. He is a board member for numerous nonprofit organizations. The couple cherishes their role as proud fathers to son, Richard and daughter, Ginger.
Photo by Jacob Power
Debbie and Roger Clemens have dedicated much of their lives to helping others. They founded their organization in 1992 through golf tournaments and silent auctions to support causes close to their hearts, with a special emphasis on underprivileged, at-risk and special-needs children. Baseball icon Clemens, one of the most successful power pitchers in Major League Baseball, won seven “Cy Young Awards.” He is the only pitcher in MLB history to record more than 350 wins and strike out more than 4500 batters. In addition to her philanthropic work, Debbie Clemens is a golfer and entrepreneur. Her creative work, putting crystals on denim, became a huge trend. Spending time with their four sons, Kody, Koby, Kacy and Kory, is their first priority. They also love making in-person visits to offer encouragement to those in need.
Shelby Hodge, society and lifestyle editor of PaperCity magazine and its online site, has chronicled the movements of Houston’s philanthropic community since 1991. Throughout her journalistic journey, Hodge has consistently elevated and enhanced the coverage of charitable organizations in the city. “Shelby raises the awareness of Houston cultural arts organizations, medical institutions, charitable organizations and educational causes simply by telling their story,” said former mayor Annise Parker when honoring Hodge on “Shelby Hodge Day.” AIDS Foundation Houston named the “Shelby Hodge Vision Award” in her honor. She describes her husband, architect Shafik Rifaat, as “the perfect dinner partner and party escort. Without his loving and generous support, I would never have lasted so many years in this very busy job.”
Gittings
Robin and Danny Klaes agree that their highest priority in life has been to be good parents to their three adult children. Also, they are committed to supporting worthy causes. Robin is a former President of the Board of Trustees of Star of Hope and chaired the Trees of Hope Gala, co-chaired Vita Living Houston, chaired Nutcracker Market, Judy’s Mission, Easter Seals Greater Houston, SEARCH, and Avondale House. She is an Advisory Board member for Miller Outdoor Theater. She is a Board Member of American Cancer Society Greater Houston and has co-chaired the last two Cattle Baron’s Balls. In addition to supporting Robin in her projects, Danny is dedicated to supporting his children’s schools, Episcopal High School and River Oaks Baptist School, as well as serving in leadership roles for the Men of Distinction Luncheon. He is CFO of the family-owned holding company.
Jo Ann Petersen is a native Houstonian and a former Registered Nurse and Certified Public Accountant. As an RN, she worked in Methodist Hospital’s Neurological Intensive Care Unit. Since retiring as a CPA with PriceWaterhouse, she has devoted herself to charitable endeavors. In 1990, Petersen founded Trees of Hope benefiting Star of Hope, where she served as President, Treasurer and Advisory Board member. With Covenant House, she served as Treasurer, President, Board Member and Gala Chair for three years. As a member of VICTORY, she served as President, Treasurer and co-chair of the Holiday Shopping Card. She co-chaired the Boys and Girls Harbor event and the Gaston LeNotre Gala. She currently serves on the BRASS Board of Directors.
Denman Moody is one of the most renowned wine writers and lecturers in the country. He started writing about wine in 1978 with a newsletter, Moody’s Wine Review. He has published between 300 and 400 articles on wine in magazines worldwide. In 2012, he published his first book, The Advanced Oenophile, defining “oenophile” as a wine connoisseur and lover. He has shared his knowledge and expertise at numerous charitable events, including wine auctions and wine seminars. Many of these events entail creating food and wine pairings, which he and his wife, Marijo, say are the most fun of all.
Vicki Rizzo and daughter, Mauri Oliver, are the proud owners of More Than You Can Imagine, an upscale designer resale, consignment and accessories boutique. (Think Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton.) Rizzo’s love of fashion came naturally as her grandmother had a successful dress shop in Rosenberg. In high school, while working for a speech pathologist, Oliver determined she wanted to help children. Today, in addition to her fashion career, she is a speech-language pathologist, and her practice covers Apraxia, Articulation and Phonological Process Disorders, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Speech Therapy and other issues. This mother-daughter duo is totally committed to giving back by supporting many charities, from chairing events, to hosting events in the store and providing auction items.
After retiring from a 13-year career in Oil and Gas Operations, Jordan Seff has been devoting her time to her husband, Dylan, and her three young daughters and offering development and fundraising support to many non-profit organizations. She is on the executive boards of Houston Ballet, Houston Zoo, Crime Stoppers of Houston and the Nick Finnegan Counseling Center. She has chaired or co-chaired events for Crime Stoppers of Houston, CanCare, March of Dimes and Houston Zoo. Next year, she will co-chair Houston Ballet Ball and Bear/CPS.
Heidi Turney, Vice President and General Manager for Saks Fifth Avenue has fully immersed herself in the philanthropic community. Her leadership has advanced causes such as Houston Symphony, Houston Ballet, Latin Women’s Initiative, Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation, American Cancer Society, the Asia Society, IWrite, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center and Citizens for Animal Protection. She serves as a Trailblazer with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and is chairing the KnowAutism Gala in April. Also, she has supported the Italian Culture Center, Mission of Yahweh, Texas Children’s Hospital, Women of Substance, Crohn’s and Colitis and others. Turney loves spending time with her two children and husband, Barry.
By Haley Lamb
Walking into The Kennedy immediately sets the tone for an elevated yet intimate dining experience—equally suited for a stylish night out or a leisurely lunch in the city. Arriving early in the evening, the atmosphere felt warm, relaxed, and welcoming, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the space. It’s also an ideal setting for hosting gatherings or private events, thanks to its thoughtful layout and inviting ambiance.
We began the evening on the rooftop with cocktails just as the sun was beginning to set. The rooftop lounge offers a beautiful backdrop for conversation, with a mix of plush couches and tables that make it easy to relax with friends or enjoy a full meal. As dusk fell, the soft lighting transformed the space into a cozy retreat—perfect for lingering over drinks and good company.
Downstairs, the main bar continues the sophisticated aesthetic. One detail that immediately stood out was the seating: the bar stools are upholstered in a rich, plush fabric that feels both luxurious and comfortable. It’s a small design touch that contributes to the venue’s polished yet approachable feel.
The décor throughout The Kennedy is visually striking, layered with rich textures and elegant design elements that make the space both stylish and highly photogenic. Equally impressive is the staff, whose warm hospitality elevates the experience from the moment you arrive. From the friendly greeting at the door to the attentive service at the bar, every interaction felt genuine. The bartenders were knowledgeable and approachable, helping create a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Valet parking is another thoughtful convenience. In a city where parking can often be a challenge, having valet available makes arriving—and hosting events—much easier for guests.
The cocktails were a highlight of the evening. Favorites included the Elderflower Garden, Lavender French, and the Rose Water & Hibiscus Spritz—each beautifully crafted and refreshing. We ended the night with a slice of New York cheesecake, the perfect sweet finish to a memorable visit.
After such a wonderful experience, The Kennedy has quickly earned a spot on our list of go-to Houston destinations.
By Esmeralda Bustos
By late March, the shift is unmistakable.
Mornings arrive warmer, patio tables fill earlier, and the instinct to order something iced replaces the comfort of winter’s heavier lattes. In Pasadena and throughout the Houston area, spring does not ease in quietly, it brightens everything, including what’s in your cup.
Seasonal coffee is less about novelty and more about refinement. As temperatures rise, drinks trend lighter in sweetness, softer in texture, and brighter in flavor. Thick caramel sauces and overly rich combinations give way to florals, citrus accents, and natural sweeteners that complement rather than conceal the espresso. Spring, in other words, tastes balanced.
Florals often lead the way. Lavender, when used thoughtfully, adds aromatic depth without overwhelming the palate. Paired with honey in an iced latte, it becomes delicate rather than perfumed making it subtle enough for daily drinking, but distinctive enough to feel seasonal. Honey itself is essential for spring. It sweetens with warmth instead of weight, blending seamlessly into both coffee and tea while allowing the drink’s structure to remain intact.
Citrus offers another welcome shift. A hint of orange layered into a mocha brightens chocolate’s richness, drawing out the espresso’s natural fruit notes. Even the classic London Fog, traditionally Earl Grey tea with steamed milk and vanilla, feels renewed when served over ice with a touch of lavender. The bergamot’s citrus undertones meet floral notes effortlessly, creating something that feels tailored to longer days and warmer air.
Matcha, too, earns its place this time of year. Its grassy, earthy profile mirrors the season’s sense of renewal. Lightly sweetened with vanilla and poured over ice, it delivers steady energy without heaviness. For those seeking something even more refreshing, iced green tea with lemon and honey offers crisp clarity, bright, clean, and built for Southeast Texas afternoons.
Cold brew remains a reliable staple as spring leans toward summer. The difference now is restraint. A splash of cream instead of heavy foam. A measured touch of sweetness rather than excess. Drinks feel intentional, composed, and suited for open doors and sunlit interiors.
For readers looking to refresh their order, consider these easy requests at your local café:
An iced honey lavender latte
An iced mocha with a hint of orange
An iced lavender London Fog
Iced green tea with guava, passionfruit and coconut
A blackberry, white chocolate latte
None require complicated ingredients. All reflect the season’s subtle shift toward brightness.
Spring coffee in Houston is not about reinvention. It is about nuance, small adjustments that make familiar drinks feel entirely new. As Houston settles into its sunlit months, the flavors in your cup can follow suit: cooler, lighter, and quietly in bloom.
By Laurette M. Veres
St. Maarten has always known how to welcome travelers—with warm breezes, turquoise water, and a distinctly cosmopolitan soul. But now, arrival is smoother than ever. As part of the island’s ongoing reconstruction, visitors are greeted by a fully renovated airport and a new state-of-the-art automated border control system, beginning with a simple digital entry form at entry.sx. It’s a fitting first impression for an island that blends ease with elegance.
Home base for your escape: the JW Marriott St. Maarten, a polished yet relaxed oceanfront retreat. After check-in and a moment to unwind, dinner at Liguria introduces the island’s Mediterranean flair—bright citrus, fresh seafood, and a wine list that feels effortlessly European. It’s the kind of meal that gently nudges you into island time.
The next morning begins with breakfast at a local institution. Zee Best Restaurant, beloved for more than 40 years, serves classic French crepes, fluffy pancakes, and hearty omelets that fuel the day ahead. Culture follows cuisine at WeCulture, where you learn about Carnival parades and costumes. Try on a headpiece for a great photo opportunity.
Lunch at Babacool Beach Club in Simpson Bay—a scene-stealing spot where loungers, music, dining, and the island’s only beach club pool converge. The afternoon drifts by in true Caribbean fashion: unhurried and sundrenched. Dinner at Big Fish delivers a stylish blend of South Beach energy and island flavors, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.
Because St. Maarten’s central location makes island-hopping irresistible, a ferry ride with Aquamania carries you across the water to St. Barth’s. One of the most glamorous of the French West Indies, spend a luxurious day here. In Gustavia, luxury boutiques, historic streets, and superyachts create a postcard-perfect morning before heading to GypSea Beach Club in St. Jean.
Here, boho chic meets barefoot indulgence. Lunch is an exclusive tasting menu of barbecue-kissed dishes—roasted, smoked, grilled, and braised—served steps from the sea. Be sure to check out the villas, located just steps from the beach. The afternoon slips away between dips in the water and tropical cocktails before returning to St. Maarten.
After a leisurely breakfast, the JW Marriott spa delivers deep relaxation with indulgent massage treatments. Trade serenity for spice at a Creole culinary class. Roll up your sleeves to prepare a four-course menu alongside a signature Caribbean cocktail. It’s hands-on, flavorful, and wonderfully social.
Later, Philipsburg beckons. The island’s capital buzzes with color—pandemic-era murals brighten the streets, duty-free shops tempt passersby, and the boardwalk hums with local life.
At Emilio’s, set in a 17th-century stone estate, history and hospitality share the table. Beneath twinkling lights and towering trees, the island bids us goodbye with one last, elegant meal.
St. Maarten feels less like a destination and more like a mood. As you check out and head back to the airport, it’s clear this island delivers more than just beautiful beaches. It offers culture, cuisine, connection, and the kind of effortless sophistication that lingers long after the tan fades.
By Laurette M. Veres
In Tulum, wellness feels woven into the landscape—the rhythm of the waves, the warmth of the Caribbean air, the hush of palm fronds swaying overhead. At Secrets Tulum, the spa experience captures that natural serenity and elevates it into something transformative. Designed as a tranquil sanctuary, the spa is not simply an amenity; it is a destination in itself.
From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere shifts. Soft lighting, earthy textures, and the subtle scent of essential oils create an immediate sense of calm. The design blends modern luxury with organic elements—stone, wood, and water features—mirroring the surrounding Riviera Maya. It feels inti-
mate and restorative, a space intentionally crafted for disconnection from the outside world.
The spa’s hydrotherapy circuit is a highlight and an experience worth savoring slowly. Guests begin in the sauna, allowing gentle heat to relax muscles and quiet the mind. The warmth prepares the body for the next stages: an ice shower, a soothing massage pool with therapeutic jets, followed by alternating hot and cold plunges designed to stimulate
circulation and awaken the senses. Each transition feels purposeful, guiding the body through release and renewal. By the end of the circuit, tension dissolves, replaced by a deep, lingering calm.
Treatment rooms are private cocoons of comfort. Plush massage tables, soft linens, and ambient music create the perfect setting for customized therapies. Signature massages incorporate flowing techniques that ease stress and restore balance, while aromatherapy enhances the sensory experience. Skilled therapists intuitively tailor pressure and focus areas, ensuring each session feels personal rather than routine.
Facial treatments offer equal indulgence. Using high-quality products infused with nourishing botanicals, estheticians deliver radiant results while maintaining a soothing, unhurried pace. The combination of expert touch and tranquil surroundings leaves skin glowing and spirits lifted.
Beyond individual treatments, the spa encourages lingering. Relaxation lounges provide quiet spaces to sip herbal tea and simply be still. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite in natural light, reinforcing the connection to Tulum’s lush environment. Time seems suspended here; there is no rush, no agenda—only restoration.
What distinguishes the spa at Secrets Tulum is its seamless blend of luxury and mindfulness. Service is attentive yet unobtrusive, allowing guests to feel cared for without disruption. Every detail—from chilled towels to thoughtfully timed transitions between hydrotherapy stages—reflects a commitment to comfort.
In a destination known for its bohemian charm and coastal beauty, this spa stands out as a refined retreat. It offers more than relaxation; it delivers renewal. Whether beginning a vacation with intention or closing it in peaceful reflection, a visit to the spa at Secrets Tulum becomes the defining moment of the stay—a sanctuary where body and mind find harmony beside the sea.
