FineLifestyles
santaferealestate.com forbesglobalproperties.com
LETTER PUBLISHER
As summer quickly approaches, Santa Fe and the rest of New Mexico offer endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. While popular activities like fishing, hiking, camping, and biking remain favorites, the region also offers some truly unique experiences worth exploring.
Get outside and soak up the energy of Santa Fe’s vibrant markets and live entertainment. Santa Fe Bandstand (July–August) brings free live music and dancing to the Plaza several nights a week. In July, don’t miss the International Folk Art Market, the largest of its kind in the world, featuring artists from more than 50 countries. And in August, explore the rich cultural heritage of the Santa Fe Indian Market, the oldest and most prestigious Native art market in the U.S.
For an adrenaline-pumping day, try river rafting on the Rio Grande. This full-day adventure begins with a peaceful float through one of the most scenic sections of the canyon, followed by a hot lunch and a thrilling 6-mile ride through action-packed Class 2–3 rapids—perfect for everyone from beginners to seasoned paddlers.
This issue’s cover features Santa Fe Awning, New Mexico’s premier provider of awnings and solar screens. Create your ideal outdoor oasis this summer with their wide selection of shade sails designed to keep your space cool and comfortable. Contact them for a complimentary consultation and learn how to expand your outdoor living area in style.
Alongside our ever-popular Shopping & Business Guide, we’re excited to introduce a new feature: Sweets & Treats. Discover delightful new products from your favorite local retailers— and perhaps find a few new favorites along the way.
For those with a taste for travel, All World Travel takes us on a journey to the Six Senses Douro Valley retreat and spa in Portugal. This luxurious destination is the ultimate sanctuary of wine, wellness, and wonder.
At Fine Lifestyles, our mission is to inform, entertain, and connect you with the very best our vibrant community has to offer. We hope you enjoy this issue and take time to explore the exceptional products, services, and stories within these pages.
Fine Lifestyles
logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Magazines, LLC or the companies it represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation. Return Undeliverables to: 401 E Sanders St. Four Oaks NC 27524
DeAnne Wood FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPHY
Herschel Mair PHOTOGRAPHY
Herschel Mair
Douglas Merriam
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anya Sebastian Wolf Schneider
PUBLISHER & SALES
Mike Puzey mikep@finelifestylessw.com 910.508.3694
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Mike Puzey
Santa Fe Awning Always Has You Covered
Santa Fe Shopping & Business Guide 42
Sweets & Treats
Vida Dental
Something to Smile About
Lensic Gala Save the Date! June 14, 2025 17 SPECIAL FEATURE
29 DINING
22 HEALTH & WELLNESS
Chef’s Favorite Plant-based Dishes 24 ENTERTAINMENT
HOUSE & HOME
Barker Realty Market Digest
ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN
Sleep & Dream Woolly-Woolly!
All World Travel
Six Senses Douro Valley 12 STYLE
Above L-R: Round Copper Pub Table w/Leather Bar Stools; Wood Burls, Mesquite Bench w/Turquoise; Acadia Dining Table w/Leather Chairs, Flourite Bowl
Above L-R: Juan Antonio Handbags; Chocolate Brown Leather Swivel Chairs w/Leather Ottoman
ALL WORLD TRAVEL
When it comes to experiencing the best in travel, it’s all about who you know. Our insider connections allow us to customize your trips with exclusive access and extras, wherever your journeys take you. And we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Albuquerque
BARTON’S BLOOM
Barton’s Bloom Boutique specializes in artisan florals for delivery or pick up, as well as handpicked gifts and greeting cards. For all the heartfelt moments in life. Established in 1962. True Santa Fe.
INDIGO BABY
at Indigo Baby we provide
and
THE COLLECTIVE
Uniquely Santa Fe but highly exotic and unexpectedly unusual. So very far from the typical sterile furniture shopping experience. Truly exceptional!
The Collective 505.278.6705
530 S Guadalupe St. Santa Fe
Luxury Bedding and bedroom accessories available in the finest fabrics and carefully crafted from New Mexican artists as well as Artisans from around the world. Exotic creations combined with stunning colors are what defines our products!
VIDA DENTAL STUDIO
Experience dentistry the way you’ve always deserved to be treated. Our team will accommodate all your dental concerns, provide personalized treatment plans and give you the smile you’ve always wanted.
2 Calle Medico, Suite #3 Santa Fe
QUINTANA OPTICAL
Santa Fe’s premier family-owned optical shop. In business for 40 years, we carry a great selection of frames from classic inspiration to head-turning high fashion. Known for our excellent service and the latest technology in lenses.
I Cannot speak highly enough of Quintana. Truly a gem of a place.
Robyn M.
To say that Rocky Mountain Roofing Services is good is an understatement. The men who did the work were outstanding. They are fantastic!
Barbara W.
Rocky Mountain Roofing Services
505-717-1925
Santa Fe & Albuquerque
Sleep & Dream features an excellent variety of luxury brands, including Hästens, Vispring, Aireloom, and Posh + Lavish. And no sleep experience would be complete without a full line of luxury accessories. So check out what we have to offer, then come by the store and find out why Sleep & Dream can get you on the path to a great night’s sleep.
Sleep & Dream Luxury Bed Store
505.988.9195
510 W Cordova Rd, Santa Fe
EXPERT ADVICE
JAMES KALLAS JEWELERS
CUSTOM JEWELRY
Custom jewelry starts with an idea for a specific piece. For instance, with an engagement ring, we start out with the shape of the stone. It could be a family stone, or it could be something as specific as a princess cut one-carat diamond. We source stones from several dealers around the country. It’s about choosing the best stone both budget-wise and visually.
From there, we start narrowing down the design field: classical, modern, deco, etc. We try to come up with something that suits the tastes of the customer, usually through a series of hand sketches. Sometimes clients bring in a photo of something they like, or they might model it off another piece of jewelry they admire, like their mother’s ring. Customers also get ideas from finished pieces on display in the store. We tailor the design to the specific tastes of the customer.
The final hand-sketched design gets input into a computer program, Matrix 3D Computer-Aided Design. The 3D rendering program still isn’t that common in the business, but more and more jewelry designers are using the technology to give customers the ability to see their design in different metals and stones for easy comparison, like what a shank in platinum and a setting in green gold might look like, or comparing a sapphire with a diamond. The
whole idea is to give the customer a visual cue of what the finished piece will look like, so there’s very little guessing.
After the 3D rendering, we make a wax model on one of our three in-house wax mills. This gives the customer a final opportunity to hold a 3D version of their piece before it is made. It’s an easy way to check the proportions in person. From there, we cast it, polish it, finish it, and get it on their finger. The entire process takes two to three weeks.
At James Kallas Jewelers, we’re proud to say we do every step of the process in-shop. Most jewelry stores are majority showroom, whereas ours is two-thirds shop. We have a laser welder, an engraving machine, a cleaning station, a lapidary setup, and a casting station, all in-house. We’ve made every kind of jewelry imaginable, and can make anything a person could want. We both create jewelry and repair it. This sets us apart from most other jewelry stores out there. When you come in, you’re likely to speak to someone who is actually going to work on your piece.
There’s nothing worse than ordering a custom piece of jewelry and, when it’s finished, it’s nothing like you envisioned. The steps we take prevent that from ever happening. We show the client the evolution of their jewelry at every stage. Most jewelry stores are simply taking an order to be shipped elsewhere. For truly custom jewelry, we take care of our customers in-house, at every step of the way.
JAMES KALLAS
JAMES KALLAS JEWELERS
505.986.1955
2801 Rodeo Road Ste. B-10, Santa Fe jameskallasjewelersinc.com
El Corazón de Plata is owned and operated by Levi B. Chavez, a New Mexico native and self-taught jewelry designer. Levi takes pride in creating stunning, high-quality, Southwestinspired pieces, all made to order, and one-of-a-kind. Everything is sold and shipped from his studio. Just call to make an appointment!
Corazón de Plata
This is some of the most beautiful work I’ve ever ordered. All Levi’s work is incredible artistry! Fantastic job and fabulous customer service. –Vera
Hello Sweet Cream is where ice cream meets craftsmanship. With locations in Santa Fe and Eldorado, this small-batch scoop shop is known for bold, rotating flavors—both dairy and nondairy—made using a cold pan method that creates a texture unlike anything else: extra creamy, dense, and unbelievably smooth. Owner and ice cream artisan, Ryan VanderGiesen, reimagines this classic dessert with inventive combinations like Apple Green Chile Crumble and Raspberry Rose with honeycomb. Pints are available to go, but lingering over a cup or cone in the shop is part of the charm. This is ice cream, reimagined.
Sweets Treats
Fairy Hair is sparkly, heat-safe extensions, fused to single strands of hair by the magical fairies of New Mexico Fairy Hair. It lasts weeks to months—even through washing, styling, and coloring— leaving you sparkling with enchantment! Also available for special events, family gatherings, and birthday parties (a great favorite with kids!)
I love these hair sparkles, and they really do last. People ask me about them all the time, even walking down the street! But be warned – they can be quite addictive!’ –Joanna, Santa Fe
A haven for coffee enthusiasts, Wolf & Mermaid offers a range of single origin coffees, roasted weekly on site, in small batches. Imported directly from small farms, flavors vary significantly, as do the specialty lattes. How about a Sunrise Dragon, Zo-Zo-Ccino, or Sunday Waffle? There are also organic, loose leaf teas—black, green and herbal—again with unique blends, like Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and Evergreen Matcha.
To accompany the drinks, check out the selection of freshly baked goods; mouthwatering pastries, croissants, sandwiches, burritos, and muffins, with many gluten-free options. The café has locations in Los Alamos, downtown Santa Fe, and the Santa Fe airport, and also offers catering services. See website for details.
Sweets Treats
Santa Fe Sugaring and Waxing believes in the power of natural beauty and gentle care. Specializing in organic sugaring and waxing, the salon offers a soothing environment where you can relax and rejuvenate. Their gentle sugaring technique is not only effective but also kinder to your skin, providing a more comfortable experience compared to traditional methods.
Santa Fe Sugaring & Waxing
Every ingredient in our food is chosen not only for the highest quality nutrition, but also for how it affects our carbon footprint. That starts with knowing the methods the ranchers and farmers use, and preparing each recipe by hand. Shine Pet Food offers over 40 organic certified products, all pasture-raised, wild-caught, or wild-harvested. Transparency is a cornerstone of our values. Shine is proud to be a certified B Corp. B Corps are leaders in the global movement for an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.
ABarton’s Bloom Boutique FLORAL
By Anya Sebastian
ELEGANCE REDEFINED
fter 22 years on St. Michael’s Drive, Kristin Sargent and Justin Svetnicka, the current owners of Barton’s Flowers, have set up shop in the DeVargas Center, with a new name. “We love it here,” says Kristin. “It’s a more conspicuous location, with a much larger space, enabling us to grow and expand our offerings. That’s why we changed the name to Barton’s Bloom Boutique.”
Both Kristin and Justin are Santa Feans, born and raised, and their commitment to the community runs deep. “We thought long and hard about the kind of things we wanted to include in the new store,” explains Justin. “We wanted to focus on small, independent businesses, making things that are different, not available elsewhere, and would fill a need.”
They have clearly succeeded, expanding their products to include a wide range of distinctive greeting cards for various occasions, candles, magnets, artisan chocolate, hand-painted flower pots, and much more. As Kristin points out, “We try very hard not to sell anything made in China, or that can be found on Amazon.”
Flowers are still the main focus, Barton’s having consistently been voted the number one floral shop in the Reporter’s ‘Best of Santa Fe’ poll. The team of designers, with many years of experience between them, has been with the business long-term, and building and maintaining personal relationships is a top priority. Flowers and plants
are of the highest quality, sourced from environmentally friendly local growers, and arrangements are available for delivery or pick-up six days a week for any occasion. Businesses or households in need of a regular supply of fresh flowers can opt for a weekly or monthly subscription. Barton’s offers unique, one-of-a-kind designer’s choice arrangements, as well as some gorgeous staples. Pre-made arrangements are also available daily for drop-ins at the shop.
So if you are on the lookout for a memorable flower arrangement, a different kind of gift, or just want something to brighten your day, head over to Barton’s Bloom Boutique. Chances are, you won’t leave empty-handed.
Barton’s Bloom Boutique 528 N. Guadalupe St., (DeVargas Center) 505.982.9731 bartonsbloomboutique.com
Something to Smile About From Vida Dental
By Anya Sebastian
Nothing you wear matters more than your smile, which is why the look of your teeth is so very important. Americans reportedly drop almost half a billion dollars a year on over-the-counter teeth whitening products, and the global market is projected to grow to almost thirteen billion by 2032. What most people do not realize, however, is that whitening strips can do more than just bleach away the effects of coffee and cigarettes; they can cause tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and erode the underlying dentin layer beneath tooth enamel, as well as stripping away vital collagen and other proteins. The best way to avoid unwanted side-effects is to get your teeth whitened in a dental office, like Vida Dental Studio, that specializes in such procedures.
There are many significant differences between the ‘one size fits all’ strips, and what the dentist has to offer. “We have better, more effective and longer-lasting products,” points out Dr. Galen Detrik, who works with Dr. Devin Giron at Vida, “and there’s a whole protocol, starting with a thorough cleaning, that determines how effective the treatment is going to be.” He goes on to explain that professional cleaning is essential to remove the plaque and tartar build-up caused by bacteria, as well as surface stains that can be removed by a hygienist. A clean surface enables the whitening agent to penetrate the enamel evenly for optimal and long-lasting results.
Customized trays are then created, guaranteeing a perfect fit that will minimize tooth sensitivity and increase the efficacy of the product by preventing it from being diluted by saliva. As for which product to use, that is determined by a range of variables; the color of the teeth, thickness of the enamel, how deep are the stains. Those are issues that cannot be taken into account by generic products.
VIVASTYLE WHITENING
WHITENING
WHITENING
“The professional lines we use are gels imported from Europe and, unlike over-the-counter strips, they are pure,” says Dr. Detrik, “which means they contain none of the additives, chemicals, or preservatives needed for an extended shelf life. They are shipped on dry ice, and once removed from the fridge, must be used within about 30 minutes.”
As for the results that can be expected, OTC strips are less effective and have to be used every couple of months; professional whitening is noticeably superior, works faster, and typically lasts two to five years, depending on the severity of the stains and condition of the teeth. An extra bonus is that the process also kills the oral bacteria that contributes to bad breath.
Since stained teeth are primarily caused by coffee, tea, and red wine, just living a normal life means that the results are inevitably not going to last forever. Clients are advised to avoid certain foods while using
the trays at home, however, because teeth are more prone to staining during that time. Since the process typically takes two to four weeks to complete, depending on the severity of the stains, giving up your coffee, or glass of wine, is not a long-term sentence.
So if your smile is not something you want to share with the world, you may want to consider booking a consultation with Vida Dental. You have nothing to lose but your inhibitions.
Vida Dental Studio 2 Calle Medico, Suite 3 505.587.1965 vidadentalsf.com
GUM GUARD
KOR WHITENING
SANTA FE PARTY RENTALS
Carlos Ortega worked for Santa Fe Party Rentals for ten years, before he and his wife, Nohemi, took over the business in 2022. Since then, they have significantly expanded the services the company has to offer, making it a one-stop shop that caters for gatherings of all sizes, from less than 20 to as many as 600 people. Their goal is to help people make their special occasions unforgettable, so they can just relax and enjoy themselves.
Not surprisingly, perhaps, in view of New Mexico’s many beautiful locations, weddings are their most requested events. In addition to offering a wide selection of tables, table settings, flatware, glassware, candelabras, vases and catering equipment for clients to choose from, they can provide flooring, stages, and sound systems. If necessary, Carlos can also recommend a list of trusted caterers and entertainers they have worked with in the past. Santa Fe Party Rentals offers setup and breakdown services anywhere in the state, and can even handle weddings in Colorado as well.
Some of the local events the company has supported include the Taos Art Museum Gala, Santa Fe Tradfest, Izanami’s Annual Wine vs. Sake Challenge, and various Santa Fe Museum events. Carlos also has considerable experience with corporate gatherings, graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, setups for film crews, and other occasions of special significance. So whether you are hosting a small private party, or celebrating a full-scale, luxury wedding, Santa Fe Rentals has what it takes to make it a day to remember.
Santa Fe Party Rentals 1006 Cordova Pl, Santa Fe 505-986-1200 santafepartyrentals.com
BOOK REVIEW
By Wolf Schneider
THE SWEET BLUE DISTANCE
A FEMALE-DRIVEN HISTORIC WESTERN SAGA
The Santa Fe Plaza and its narrow surrounding streets will never seem the same if you read The Sweet Blue Distance, a potent novel of historical fiction by international bestselling author Sara Donati. It centers on Carrie Ballentyne, a midwife who relocates to Santa Fe in 1857. Traveling from the East Coast to the New Mexico Territory at that time is an arduous journey: it requires weeks by train, ship, wagon caravan, and finally horseback. In Pecos, Carrie notices her first adobe buildings: “They were all the same faded, uneven peach color, with rounded corners and flat roofs. All the doors and windows stood open; she saw no window glass at all, but shutters painted in strong blues and yellows and reds.”
When she arrives in Santa Fe, there are unexpected complications with the job she was hired to do for the town’s physician, who himself is ailing although he won’t admit it. Carrie has secrets of her own that make her determined to build a life for herself here. Seeking out Eli, the guide she relied on during her journey west, she grows closer to him while establishing her own allies among the local merchants and territorial government.
Most of the action takes place around the Plaza, where these early residents settled. There’s no running water in the homes, but a sky full of stars. The outdoor market offers baskets of blackberries, tomatoes, herbs, and sugared pine nuts. An unadorned long, low building on the Plaza is the seat of the territorial government, next to a U.S. Post Office with barred windows. At night the town is quiet, with Carrie hearing how, “Someone walked past the house; a burro brayed. Finally church bells counted out the hour: ten in the evening.” At over 700 pages, this satisfying frontier saga is propelled by one woman’s insistence on a meaningful life.
Author Sara Donati Photo credit: W.D. Green
Joseph’s Culinary Pub
505.982.1272
428 Agua Fria St. Santa Fe
Chef Joseph Wrede’s Ratatouille
I was drawn to create my own version of this classic French dish, because the familiarity of the name inspired me to present it in a way that’s original, delicious and exceeds expectations. So I added fennel, kale, shallots and leeks, to the basic ingredients of eggplant, tomato, zucchini and squash. The vegetables are charred, to expose the natural sugars that burn and caramelize the exterior edges of the zucchini and squash, resulting in a depth of flavor and a complex texture.
It’s now a staple on the menu, because it’s popular with everyone, not just vegetarians.
Chef Eduardo Rodriguez’s Vegetarian House Special
I created this in response to customers’ requests for a vegetarian dish. It consists of vegetables from local farms, including heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, mushrooms and eggplant. It has quinoa, queso fresco, and a pumpkin seed dressing as well. It’s a popular dish, which can also be made vegan by leaving out the cheese.
JOSEPH’S CULINARY PUB Where Veggies Get the Respect They Deserve
By Anya Sebastian • Photos by Douglas Merriam
Summer is just around the corner, and that means an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables to choose from. However, vegetables rarely come to mind when people think of entrées; they are most often considered an afterthought, rather than a main dish. And in spite of the fact that plant-based dishes are becoming increasingly popular, vegetarians typically have low expectations when checking out restaurant menus.
One sterling exception is Joseph’s Culinary Pub, whose owner/ executive chef—and 2025 James Beard award nominee—Joseph Wrede,, makes a point of featuring vegetarian dishes on his menu year-round. He admits to having always had a culinary love affair with vegetables, and is inspired to put together his own original creations, combining flavors, textures and ingredients in his own unique way. “The possibilities really are endless,” he says.
Joseph’s plant-based entrées are created in one of two ways: either his own interpretation of a familiar dish, like ratatouille or enchilada; or a completely original, made-from-scratch invention, like ‘Local Mushroom Sauté, with Gochujang Glaze, Scallions and Cilantro.’ That one is an appetizer, and a unique taste, for sure!
Mushrooms are sourced from a local farm in Albuquerque, and come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, with exotic names like Black Pearl, Lion’s Mane, Pioppino, Blue Oyster, and Chestnut. These are gourmet mushrooms— many with proven medicinal benefits—that look and taste very different from the standard varieties found in most grocery stores. They can also be cultivated year-round.
The restaurant’s summer menu also features several vegetable-based spreads in its list of appetizers. They include eggplant, carrot, basil, tomato, and variations of hummus and baba ganoush, all served with glutenfree crackers. The fresh produce comes from local farms because, as Joseph points out, “Locally grown lettuce, greens and vegetables taste better and are more nutritious. I also like to support local businesses, and build long-lasting relationships.”
In case you are wondering if Joseph actually prefers vegetables to meat, his duck and local lamb dishes are among the things he is most well-known for, not to mention his famous duck fat fries. He even makes his own, uniquely delicious, duck-fat caramel ice-cream.
But wait—there’s more! Entrées always include a ‘Fish of the Day’ special as well, which is invariably a ‘Joseph’s original’ creation. These dishes are so exceptional that customers have been known to come in two or three times a week, just to sample the latest offering
So whether you and your companions are in the mood for meat, fish, or plants, you can be sure that Joseph’s Culinary Pub has you covered.
Joseph’s Culinary Pub
428 Agua Fria St., Santa Fe 505.982.1272 josephsofsantafe.com
SUNDAY BRUNCH IS BACK!
Stop by Sundays from 11am to 2:30pm and spend a relaxing afternoon enjoying your favorite beverage and something to eat from our new Sunday brunch menu.
Choose from a variety of tasty breakfast items like poached eggs on English Muffins, Huevos Rancheros with blue corn tortillas. Ilsses Mascorpoine cheese stuffed French toast with fresh berries is delightful.
Also on the menu is a wonderful Reuben sandwich with corned beef, a 6oz Grilled Bistro steak and eggs and our popular crab cakes. Our 5oz Tortilla Burger with mozzarella cheese and grilled Atlantic Salmon with Calabacitas Risotto round out the entrees!
Our outdoor patio is open and waiting for you!
ZACATLÁN
INVITES YOU
To Discover Mexican Dishes You Have Never Heard of!
By Anya Sebastian
Things are on the move at Zacatlán, both in the awardwinning, family-owned restaurant itself, and on the menu. A new addition to the seating arrangement is a completely remodeled patio section, with an attractive, casual interior and brightly colored, Mexican dining chairs. “I wanted it to feel like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home,” says owner/executive chef, Eduardo Rodriguez, “and since it’s now covered and enclosed, with big windows, the patio space can be used comfortably year-round.”
Following the traditional, end-of-year frenzy, Eduardo took a trip to Mexico City in January, to seek inspiration for creating new dishes. The mouthwatering results can now be found listed on his updated, seasonally influenced menu. They include elk chops; large white Mexican shrimp, with aioli made with hierba santa (sacred leaf) instead of basil; black garlic mashed potatoes; and mole de platano (crispy plantain rolls stuffed with chorizo, mole and pork.)
Desserts have not been forgotten either. In addition to housemade ice-cream and sorbets, there is now Eduardo’s original cornbread cake, gluten-free, with chocolate mousse and a side of eggnog sauce. Be sure to leave room for that!
If you’re a fan of margaritas, then do yourself a favor and check out Eduardo’s mezcalita, a secret recipe made with mezcal instead of tequila, with a base of blackberry and citrus. Accompanied by slices of fresh orange and lime, and cubes of black ice, it is served in a hand-made, black clay bowl, and is truly a memorable experience. There is also a more traditional, hibiscus-based version, that comes in a regular glass.
So if you’re in the mood to take your taste buds on a new culinary adventure, head over to Zacatlán. Chances are, your first visit won’t be your last.
Zacatlán
317 Aztec St. Santa Fe
505.780.5174 zacatlanrestaurant.com
Fe County Residential Market Report
Woolly-Woolly!
Hot! ▶ Itchy! ▶ Is it really? ▶ Is it always?
Let’s look at the facts and the truly wonderful properties of this natural fiber. First, is it true that wool is always hot? Wool has a thermal factor of helping you to stay warm in the winter, but yet in the summer it has ventilating properties to help you stay cool. It does this for the living sheep, goats, alpaca, and camels… all of which are current sources for wool. Who doesn’t need a haircut every once in a while?
The benefits of sleeping on, under or ensconced in wool is that it helps you to sleep in a temperature neutral environment. It also is a very supportive fiber in that it doesn’t migrate thus allowing the wool to keep working for the sleeper, maintaining a balanced sleeping temperature all night long.
Second, let’s consider the “itchy factor”. This is mainly caused by the lanolin also called wool wax that is in all wool or the coarseness of the wool hair. Other things that are considered for fine wool are the age of the animal, the environmental conditions it lives in and its healthiness. The finer wools such as Cashmere and Mohair from goats, Merino wool from sheep and Alpaca are considered exquisite and generally will not irritate your skin to cause itching.
We also have found brands that utilize regionally treasured wool. For instance, Vispring and Harrison Spinks from the United Kingdom use Shetland wool, Devonshire wool, Yorkshire-Dales wool and Herdwick wool. These locally sourced wools add to the comfort, distinction and uniqueness of their luxury beds.
Another solution to help you enjoy and benefit from the wonderful properties of wool and to avoid contact with your skin is to have a natural barrier between you and the wool. Cotton is usually a great choice although other natural fibers such as linen, bamboo or silk are other options. These fiber additions can be utilized in your bedding choices for mattress or pillow protectors and sheet sets.
Finally, the truth is that wool is a temperature neutral material that helps you to sleep comfortably and knowing that finer wools take away the “itchies” will help you to sleep better at night and if you are sleeping better and longer, the next day will be great!
We invite you to “…experience the rest!” as our slogan says because we showcase a variety of wool fibers at Sleep & Dream in our beds as well as toppers, pillows, comforters, blankets and mattress protectors. These are all things that utilize this wonderful fiber to help you sleep better.
510 West Cordova Rd. Santa Fe 505-988-9195
SHARON SCOTT, Owner SLEEP & DREAM
HIGH END NATIVE AMERICAN JEWELRY
ANTIQUE BAROQUE FURNITURE, LATIN AMERICAN RELIGIOUS ART, MIGUEL MARINEZ
FLAVORS OF BURGUNDY WINE CRUISE
April 16-23, 2026 | 7-night cruise from Dijon to Lyon
Embark on a journey that caters to discerning tastes and highlights the decadent French flavors throughout the Burgundy region. Enjoy wine tastings in beautiful destinations such as Seurre, Tournus, Mâcon and Lyon. Absorb the breathtaking scenery of elegant vineyards and historic sites as you sail along the Saône River. Savor exquisite regional cuisine and delightful treats on board and in the wonderful ports you visit.
MAGNA ON THE DANUBE
September 6-13, 2026 | 7-night cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen
Indulge your passion for awe-inspiring architecture, timeless music, breathtaking landscapes and culinary delights. Apricot brandy and chocolate tasting in Dürnstein and an exclusive wine festival in Spitz are a few of the epicurean experiences you’ll indulge in. Vienna, home to a treasure trove of Baroque splendors, including its grand Schönbrunn Palace, gives you a glimpse into bygone grandeur; while Budapest and Bratislava offer a vibrant mix of east and west.
Whatever the Weather
Santa Fe Awning Has You Covered
by Anya Sebastian
Agreat way to extend your living space during the heat of the summer months is by installing shade sails. These wonderfully versatile outdoor accessories can create shade anywhere you want, either directly attached to a wall or building, or set up in an outdoor space, secured by metal poles. Santa Fe Awning will come to your home or business for a complimentary consultation, assess the situation, and discuss the best ways to satisfy your needs.
Made to order, sails can be manufactured in any size or shape; regular, irregular, geometric or freestyle, and there are 22 beautiful colors to choose from. Multiple shades, in different shapes and color combinations, can be selected for the area, to be covered.
Shade sails are not intended to be permanent structures. They are intended for use only from May through October, because they not only block 95 per cent of the sun’s UV rays, but can also withstand New Mexico’s fierce springtime winds. “We use a reinforced, commercial grade, mesh fabric, that does a wonderful job,” explains owner Sara Maul. “Unfortunately, many of the fabrics out there just aren’t up to the challenge.” Sails are taken down in the fall, to be stored until the following year, because they are not equipped to deal with snow and ice.
Other benefits of shade sails are that they shield furniture from damage that can be caused by harmful rays of the sun, and having a cooler home can reduce energy costs as well. They are also really easy to clean. For surface cleaning, they just need to be sprayed with a garden hose, and if stains need to be removed, a little dish soap and warm water will do the trick. The fabric comes with a 10-year warranty, but products typically last for at least 20, if properly cared for.
Depending on your situation, and need for sun and/or wind blocking for your home or business, Santa Fe Awning has a number of other options available as well. There are wind and sun screens, patio covers, window awnings, and even skylight covers that cool the home up to 15 degrees, while still allowing natural sunlight to enter. These can be left on year-round, or removed in the winter to allow the sun’s warmth into your home.
Santa Fe Awning takes pride in the products they design, manufacture and install, and the company fully services the entire state of New Mexico. Family-owned since 1994, the company has
contributed well over 5,000 screens to the New Mexico market, and many more are in use all over the country.
So if the desert sun, or those pesky New Mexico winds, are causing you problems in your home or place of business, call the experts at Santa Fe Awning and invite them to come out and take a look. The consultation is free and you can be sure that, whatever the problem, they will be able to find the perfect solution. Those summer months are only going to get hotter, after all!
Santa Fe Awning 2954 Rodeo Park Dr W 505.474.6460 – Santa Fe
SantaFeAwning.com
505.243.9089 – Albuquerque AlbuquerqueAwning.com
SIX SENSES DOURO VALLEY
A Sanctuary of Wine, Wellness, and Wonder
Nestled in Portugal’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley, Six Senses is a rare fusion of 19th-century grandeur and modern sustainability. Just 125 kilometers from Oporto International Airport, this enchanting retreat and spa rests on 19 acres of lush landscape, offering an immersive experience that intertwines nature, heritage, and wellness.
The resort is built around a lovingly restored manor house, exuding timeless charm complemented by sleek, contemporary interiors. With 71 guest accommodations ranging from Quinta Rooms and Suites to exclusive Pool Villas, every space is crafted to reflect local authenticity while ensuring utmost comfort. Vineyard Suites feature private gardens and hot tubs, while Valley Rooms occupy a restored wine lodge complete with a fireplace, lounge, and terraced gardens.
Culinary experiences at Six Senses are rooted in the region’s bounty. The Vale de Abraão restaurant offers a trio of atmospheres, from the interactive Open Kitchen to the romantic Dining Room and sun-kissed terrace, where seasonal, locally sourced menus reign supreme. The Wine Library & terrace provides a relaxed setting for wine tastings and tapas, while the Summer Garden Barbecue and Pool Bar bring vibrant flavors to outdoor dining.
AERIAL VIEW VALLEY GARDEN SUITE
Wellness is at the heart of the experience. The expansive 2,200-square-meter Six Senses Spa provides a serene haven with a comprehensive menu of treatments, wellness programs, and daily yoga sessions. Guests are invited to connect with nature and themselves through unique activities like tile-painting workshops, tree climbing, and vineyard strolls.
Adventure Runs in the Family
The surrounding valley, famed as the world’s oldest demarcated wine region, offers a golden landscape for exploration. Guests can embark on curated excursions to prehistoric sites, riverside villages, historic castles, and renowned wineries. River cruises, electric bike tours, and barefoot grape stomping in the fall provide immersive ways to engage with the land and its traditions.
Six Senses Douro Valley also champions sustainability through its Earth Lab, a showcase of the resort’s environmental initiatives.
A blend of elegance and eco-luxury, Six Senses Douro Valley is more than a destination; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the senses, and discover the soulful rhythm of the Douro. For more information call:
VINEYARD_GARDEN SUITE
OPEN KITCHEN
WINE LIBRARY
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