Los Angeles Travel Magazine 2019 Endless Summer Issue

LA TRAVEL

Inspiring Angelenos to Travel Near and Far

Women to Watch:

ROBIN MCGRAW

Around the World with the "Queen of Fun"

KENDRA WILKINSON

Health & Wellness Escapes

This Season's Hottest Getaways: Brussels, Cabo, La Quinta, Shenandoah and Vina Del Mar

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Join us for an afternoon of celebration as you sip, savor and mingle with SoCal's elite. Enjoy live entertainment, giveaways, insta-worthy activations and interactive installations. This exclusive event invites food and beverage enthusiasts to an afternoon of fun.

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The dessert before dinner.

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Mohea Entertainment was created with the intention of bringing authentic Polynesian entertainment to the rest of the world. With our knowledge and love of our Polynesian cultures, our shows are memorable, exciting, and fun for all! We perform dances from different Polynesian Islands including, Hawaii, Tahiti, Aotearoa, and Samoa.

Our costumes, choreography, and professionalism makes Mohea Entertainment the highlight of any event. Our performers serve as cultural ambassadors, giving our guests a genuine Polynesian cultural experience and memories to keep forever! Our Hula dancers are located in Los Angeles, California, serving all of Greater Los Angeles, Hollywood, and Orange County. Not near Los Angeles?

No problem! Our dancers can come to you! Let us know, and we can make travel arrangements and bring our show to your party, anywhere in the country or the world!

WWW.MOHEAENTERTAINMENT.COM Moheaentertainment@gmail.com @moheaentertainment @MoheaEntertainment

HARD ROCK HOTEL LOS CABOS Welcome to the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos – the epic new addition to Mexico’s hottest vacation destination, complete with 5 pools, 8 restaurants, a bowling alley and more. From tours and dining to the spa and salon, everything is included with our Limitless All-Inclusive program.

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ENDLESS SUMMER 2019

CONTENTS

FEATURES 100 COVER FEATURE

Around the World with the Queen of Fun, Kendra Wilkinson

118 SoCal SPACATIONS 112 THE TOP HEALTH & WELLNESS DESTINATIONS TO VISIT RIGHT NOW 84 TASTE OF THE WORLD: Meet the Chefs

travel 106 celebrity One on One with Robin McGraw

15

REMO FIORONI

Photography & Video WEDDINGS, events, & portraits | FioroniPhotography.com | 510-332-7579

Letter from the Editors'

ENDLESS SUMMER 2019

he infamous, hot summer months are upon us and once again like clockwork the heat waves are hitting Southern California like they do year after year.

Concerts, festivals and sporting events take over the beaches from Santa Monica all the way down to San Diego and the tourists are arriving in droves to get in on the action us locals can sometimes take for granted.

This past quarter was action packed as always, our writers once again set their GPS for adventure, fun and luxury. This past May we hosted our 5th annual Taste of the World which again competed with one of the best overall events in LATM history. The culinary showdown was held at the prestigious Rolling Hills Country Club which set the stage for a classy affair. Southern California's top chefs showcased their talent and with the winner taking the competition by only four votes, the two-time defending champions Trojan Grill Barbecue were finally dethroned. The team at Oak Grill from Fashion Island Hotel secured the title as this year's Taste of the World Champions with Chef Brittany Valles leading the way. A huge congratulations goes out to each chef that competed as all of the dishes were absolutely incredible making it hard to choose a winner as always.

In usual celebration of Internationally themed cuisine and refreshing beverages guests were treated to an array of worldly performances from Scottish Bagpiping, to Salsa, Hawaiian, Irish river-dancing and more!

With a very busy summer schedule, a staycation was on the radar for us in early July. We jumped in the car and headed east to one of the hottest places on earth, the Coachella Valley. A quick trip to the desert took us to the iconic grounds of the La Quinta Resort & Club for a fun filled trip in the hot SoCal sun! Two action packed days gave us exactly what the doctor ordered, sunshine, golf, spa, incredible food and a blast of adventure at the BMW Performance Center close by in Thermal, CA. A trip to the desert was something we hadn't done in a long time and it definitely hit the spot.

Our endless summer cover shoot was as fun as one can imagine with the vivacious personality of Kendra Wilkinson taking center stage for a shoot to remember. Our entire team had a ton of laughs working with the “Queen of Fun” (as we now call her) at the Four Seasons Westlake Village. It is always easier to create stunning photography when working with a beautiful soul like hers.

As always, we look forward to seeing each and every one of you that live in Southern California at one of our many events. Make sure to mark your calendars for November 9th as the 1st annual Mixology Masters will be held at the world class Porsche Irvine. An evening of intoxicating cocktails formulated by Southern California's top mixologists paired with local chefs and exciting entertainment will certainly set the stage for an event you don’t want to miss!

Jennifer & Michael

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TAKE YOUR SUMMER VACATION THIS WINTER. On our award-winning ships in Australia and New Zealand, you’ll enjoy exquisite design, luxurious suites, and distinctive restaurants, with menus crafted by our Michelin-starred chef, realized by a dedicated culinary team, and served seamlessly.

Shore excursions match every interest, from snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef to trekking the soaring peaks of New Zealand, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge to exploring the Sydney Opera House.

Our Down Under vacations take you over the top. celebrity.com | 1-888-283-6879 | Contact your travel advisor

©2019 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.

MEET THE TEAM

Carolyn Ramos

Paula Ramos Designer

Director of Photography

Huey Bui

Ken Alcazar

Robyn Rutherford

Kelly Magyarics

Katie McElveen

Susan Watkins

Rachel Stein

Kelvin Bellamy

Richard Carroll

William Rouse

Dave Wrobel

Danielle Tavia

Taylor Kelly

Peggy Tanous

Design Director

Photographer

Travel Writer

Resident DJ

Travel Writer

Culinary Travel

Lead Stylist

Travel Writer

Travel Writer

Travel Writer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dezirae Elkins Halina Kubalski Chantele Petrocelli Angelo Zaccanelli Brianna Lopez Remo Fioroni

Chris Dunn Gail Moore Vic O'Sullivan Francesca Murray Alex Temblador Urban Nilmander

Katie McCabe Greg Foster Ian Cameron Evangeline Chen Ann Wilson Ben Esque

Associate Photography Director

Travel Writer

Videographer

Travel Writer

Melissa Curtin Vinnie Stevens Yvonne Lao Brittany Julifs John Piekarski 19

EVENT RENTALS

TENTS - TABLES - CHIAVARI CHAIRS LIGHTING - DRAPING - DANCE FLOORS - LOUNGE FURNITURE - STAGING LINENS AND MORE

WWW.BEDAZZLEMYEVENTS.COM 909.263.3533

On the Cover P. 100 Kendra Wilkinson

Photographed by Remo Fioroni @remofioroni

Styled by: Danielle Tavia @danielletavia MUA: Sheila Harris @blondet0urage Hair Stylist: Tiffany Loe @christianmsalon Outfit: Sylwia Romaniuck @sylwiaromaniuckcouture Shot on location at The Four Seasons Westlake 21

http://www.celticirishdanceacademy.com Where Irish Dancers Shine

Don't miss the latest travel news and discoveries from our experts based on travel, dining and fashion throughout Los Angeles and destinations LA residents love to visit.

ON THE SCENE

THE LEAP FOUNDATION’S “LEAP GALA” The gala highlighted co-chairs Dr. Bill Dorfman and Elisabeth Fullerton, featured magician Simon Winthrop and comedian Chris D’Elia, honored Bibop Gresta, the Chairman of Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, as well as Karma International. Celebrities included: Ian Buchanan, Jonathan Bennett, Jason Wahler, Tonya Banks and more!

Co-chairs Dr. Bill Dorfman and Elisabeth Fullerton were proud to present the 2019 LEAP Foundation Gala honoring Chairman of Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, Bibop Gresta, as well as Karma International. The inaugural charity event also featured a lovely seated dinner, a silent and live auction, and world class entertainment from magician Simon Winthrop and comedian Chris D’Elia.

ABOUT THE LEAP FOUNDATION: LEAP is a non-profit organization and global cause dedicated to helping young people worldwide achieve great success through exclusive content and events that you can’t find in a traditional educational system including: LEAP week 2019 at UCLA, an annual leadership and life skills development program (with the next one taking place on the UCLA campus in July 2019), exclusive videos designed to help one with communication, self-image and networking, a downloadable curriculum, inspiring speakers and mentors, in addition to providing the right tools to help one build an action plan for one’s career.

Photo credit: Vivien Best/Getty Images for The LEAP Foundation

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ENDLESS SUMMER 2019

LA TRAVEL

ON THE SCENE

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ON THE SCENE

2019 TASTE OF THE WORLD On May 19th we hosted our fifth annual Taste of the World at the Rolling Hills Country Club, a signature event created to celebrate food, wine and culture inspired

by International travel. Food & Beverage Connoisseurs united as top chefs from Southern California came together in Rolling Hills Estates for a unique and worldly experience. The space was decorated with bright colors by BeDazzle My Events and Mikasa by Stephanie's Linens which set the tone upon arrival for the exciting event.

Guests sampled small bites of creative dishes featured that afternoon and then voted for their favorite at the end of the event in a top chef style battle. For the first time Chef Brittany Valles of Oak Grill at Fashion Island Hotel took the win for "Best Dish". This year a special award was given to Passport Provisions for "Most Creative Dish".

During the afternoon extravaganza guests had the opportunity to partake in a special Around the World Wine Tasting presented by Quintessential Wines which showcased wines from Australia, Spain, Italy and Argentina in the VIP section while Boissett Collection offered numerous wines for the general admission crowd. Celebrity Cruises spoiled guests with a rose and bubbly bar while they entered to win a cruise giveaway. An assortment of local beer from Towne Park Brew was available while Peroni Nastro Azzurro was served to those looking for an international beer option.

Signature non-alcoholic drinks were created just for the event by Seedlip Drinks while Glass Vodka impressed patrons with their ultra premium cocktails. As if that wasn’t enough, specialty mixologists from Platinum Bartenders were on-site showcasing their skills during the event and a stop at the Essentia Water booth was the perfect place to grab a selfie and wash down the delectable bites.

For entertainment guests enjoyed live International performances from Mohea Entertainment, Liz Lira Dance Academy, Bagpiper Ross Naismith, Dance Mania Entertainment and the Celtic Irish Dance Academy. Music by DJ D-dub set the tone throughout the afternoon in between performances. Once party-goers finished sampling all of the decadent dishes My/Mo Mochi was presented in an assortment of flavors from Salted Caramel to Sweet Mango.

Competing Chefs & Restaurants included: Avec Nous, Viceroy Beverly Hills, Costero California Bar + Bistro, Sheraton Gateway Hotel, Fashion Island Hotel, Good Choice Catering, POP Champagne Bar & Restaurant, Passport Provisions, Nixo Patio Lounge, Luxe City Center Hotel, Trojan Grill Barbecue, Oak Grill, Tanners Restaurant, Pasea Hotel & Spa, The Nyotaimori Experience, Rolling Hills Country Club, Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge, Shade Hotel, Roba Noodle, A Taste of Peru, LA Farm Girl, Ooey Gooey Catering, Taste of Senegal, Edible 360, Savory Roads and La Cuillere Gourmet.

Event sponsors included: Alcazark Photography, AMG Media Group, Boissett Collection, Dance Mania Entertainment, Celtic Irish Dance Academy, Glass Vodka, Celebrity Cruises, Events by Robin, BeDazzle My Events, Liz Lira Dance Academy, Mikasa by Stephanie's Linens, My/Mo Mochi, Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Plate-A-Cup by Eco-Eats, Platinum Bartenders, Towne Park Brew, Essentia Water, Quintessential Wines, Ross Naismith, Seedlip Drinks, Yelp LA and LA Weekly.

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ON THE SCENE

AVO Bar & Restaurant 27

ON THE SCENE

A NIGHT IN LUXE

Presented by Porsche Newport Beach On June 29th we hosted our first annual Night in Luxe event at Porsche in Newport Beach, a signature event created to celebrate SoCal's luxury vendors, performers and travel partners. Guests were greeted with bubbly courtesy of NZ Wine Navigator and insta-worthy backdrops from Wonder Wall OC as they entered the dealership. Upon arrival each guest was entered to win an array of prizes including a cruise to the Caribbean courtesy of Celebrity Cruises.

Once inside the crowd enjoyed small bites from local chefs including Tanners at Pasea Hotel & Spa, Oak Grill at Fashion Island Hotel, Fig and Olive & Davio's. Sweet treats were also available thanks to Paderia Bakehouse. A special performance took place where guests witnessed Dueling Pianos by 2Grand Entertainment as they gambled for a good cause with Red Carpet Casino to raise money for Barks of Love Animal Rescue.

During the extravaganza guests had the opportunity to try a specialty cocktail presented by The Natural Mixologist which showcased Cuestion Tequila while Essentia Water kept guests hydrated. Glass Vodka and Peroni Nastro Azzurro provided guests refreshing beverages as they perused the silent auction items available.

International lounge music from DJ D-dub kept patrons entertained throughout the event while Night and Day Productions served glasses of champagne through a specialty "Press for Champagne" activation created by Wonder Wall OC. Touched by Time provided beautiful furnishings for VIP guests to enjoy intimate seating areas.

To end the event in style Peonies & Petals offered each guest a red rose as they departed to thank them for supporting the evening's cause.

Event sponsors included: AMG Media Group, Celebrity Cruises, FC Valet, Kendra Scott, Mellie Bee Events, Glass Vodka, Porsche Newport Beach and Peroni Nastro Azzurro.

Event Photos By: Ken Alcazark/Alcazark Photography Red Carpet Photos By: Angelo Zaccanelli

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ENDLESS SUMMER 2019

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ON THE SCENE

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#FOODTRUCKS of Instagram:

The Best Street Food In The USA If you’re a foodie, you’ll know that street food has become a popular choice for many across the world. With some even getting their own Michelin star, it seems no Instagram profile is complete without a tasty snapshot of these delicious delights.

We found the most liked Instagram posts using #foodtrucks in each area, and have created a list of some of the best food trucks in the US, so you won’t miss out on the top street food these cities have to offer: LOS ANGELES 1. Astro Doughnuts (North American & Desserts) - These tasty treats might as well be from out of space and with over 47,000 followers they’re one of LA’s most popular food trucks. You can try a Maple Bacon doughnut or some of their delicious fried chicken @astrodoughnuts 2. Mad Dumplings (Asian) -This awardwinning dumpling truck serves up the best of Asian Fusion across Orange and Los Angeles counties @maddumplings 3. VCHOS Truck (Latin American & Vegan) Also known as Papusas, this food truck serves up fresh, authentic El Salvadorian cuisine with a Latin American twist. With plenty of gluten-free, vegan and veggie options, there is something to satisfy everyone @vchostruck VEGAN DELIGHTS 1. Word of Mouth Truck (Los Angeles, CA) This 100% plant-based food truck is on a mission to bring veganism to the streets of LA. Enjoy Buffalo Cauliflower or the Word Burger made with a sweet potato and black bean patty.

2. VCHOS Truck (Los Angeles, CA) Salvadoran food is just as tasty as it looks, and VCHOS truck serves the best pupusas in town!

You can try their bean pupusas, or a spinach and cheese option. If you’re fancying something

sweet - maybe try their platano plate, which is caramelised Colombian plantains, mashed beans and Salvi cream (with an option to remove the cream if you’re a vegan).

NEW YORK 1. Island Spice Grill - Popping up all over the city, Island Spice Grill is the best way to get your Caribbean fix without having to leave NYC. This colourful food truck can’t be missed, with over 37,000 followers - you can enjoy everything from shrimp to lobster (just imagine the palm trees and beaches to complete the culinary experience).

2. Uncle Gussy’s - If you want to try some Greek food, Uncle Gussy’s is the food truck for you! Over 10,000 followers enjoy their posts on Instagram. With two brothers running the show, and their mother preparing all the delicious meats and sauces, you can enjoy anything from a gyro pita to authentic pork souvlaki.

3. NYC Mac Truck - Everyone loves mac and cheese and this food truck is dedicated to serving New York City with the best mac and cheese around. With fried mac bites, classic mac and cheese and toppings such as applewood smoked bacon and buffalo chicken, this is comfort food heaven on wheels.

OTHER LOCATIONS IN THE US 1. The Grilled Cheese (Portland, OR) There’s nothing quite like a classic grilled cheese sandwich, and this food truck is dedicated to serving them. With only around 1,000 followers on Instagram, The Grilled Cheese might be Portland’s best-kept secret.

2. CheBogz Filipino (Seattle, WA) - With over 2,500 followers, this family-recipe based food truck serves fresh Filipino food on the streets of Seattle. If you can’t decide between chicken adobo or pork lumpias - their 50/50 option allows you to get both.

3. Four Brothers (Austin, TX) - Want a taste of Venezuela? Well, head down to Austin to try some of Four Brothers’ amazing food. From arepas to empanadas, their Instagram is filled with delicious goodies and there are some great vegan options too.

FOOD TRUCKS OF INSTAGRAM For more information on the best food trucks or to see the full list, visit comparethemarket.com.

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DINING

NEW & NOTEABLE

SoCal Dining Memphis, Costa Mesa

Memphis CafĂŠ rings in summertime with a flavorful new menu crafted by Co-founder and Executive Chef Diego Velasco. Experience the unexpected flare of gourmet southern cuisine paired alongside hand crafted cocktails using a wide range of locally sourced ingredients with international influences. The vibrant new summer inspired menu features an exclusive addition of five new dishes and three craft cocktails each taking your taste buds on a culinary adventure. Start your meal with a refreshing cocktail. Choose the Chai on Fire signature cocktail for a taste of smoky mezcal or dip the Melt Banana for an exciting play on a decadent dessert.

The Fried Washington Oysters offer an interesting twist on a breadless oyster po boy, and the Spice Crusted Striped Bass, served with a scallion-ginger pancake, is reminiscent of chicken and waffles - a southern classic at Memphis CafĂŠ. For dessert, Chef Diego recommends the blackened rib cap steak, a melt in your mouth, savory explosion of smokey flavor to end the night.

Five Crowns, Corona del Mar Along the charming neighborhood of sunny Corona Del Mar, lies the historic 1965 landmark, Five Crowns. This renowned 5-star dining establishment has been a local favorite since its opening and today continues to draw in crowds both new and old for its timeless charm and ever-changing world-class culinary creations. The restaurant's current menu offered through Lawry's is no exception, with a range of delectable dishes combining home-comfort flavors with the freshest of locally sourced ingredients, together producing a sinful meal so satisfying you'll be savoring every bite.

Dive into the season with mastery dishes prepared to tantalize your taste buds through the dedicated preparations passed down through four generations.

Since 1938 this beloved establishment has been a booming restaurant hub for a memorable night out, offering guests seasonal flavors in a romantic setting just steps away from the beautiful Pacific. From floor to ceiling every square inch of the space has been elegantly designed, with an attention to detail that's first-rate just like its cuisine. Cozy tables and a sunlit Greenhouse invite guests to relax and stay awhile as they indulge in exceptional dishes while the colorful English Garden provides a perfect place to take some photos under the SoCal sun. As you sit down to your table, your anticipation builds as you see gourmet dishes presented to surrounding patrons.

Get ready to begin a culinary journey from Five Crowns award-winning chefs with signature dishes that range from the 30 Age Dry Prime Ribeye to a Stilcheddar Mac N Cheese, which are two recommended selections you won't regret trying.

Featuring a variety of Prime Rib cuts served with Au Jus, Yorkshire Pudding, Organic Whipped Cream Horseradish and your choice of two tasty sides, the menu at this English Cottage solidifies why it's a crowd pleaser all year long.

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The location features Sunday Brunch Specials and Backyard Game Nights offered at the onsite gastropub making this neighborhood gathering spot a place that attracts locals and tourists alike. Their dedicated mixologists have crafted unique refreshments that perfectly compliment equally inventive bar bites and snacks. Start with the Garden Margarita paired with the Avocado Mash, and for those who enjoy fruitier flavors, the Tin City Bramble is a sweet delight you can't go wrong with after a day on the beach. Between the sophisticated ambiance and beautifully presented dishes a visit to this local gem is truly worth every penny.

DINING Flower Child, Newport Beach Flower Child, an established nouveau cuisine restaurant has arrived in the OC bringing the perfect combination of healthy and delicious food to the local dining scene. Recently opening their doors on Macarthur Blvd in Newport Beach, it hasn't taken long to fill this organic establishment thanks to their vivacious attitude and an exciting menu. At Flower Child they make every bite from scratch, always using the top ingredients. From resourcing local farmers to sustainable seafood operations, you will only find the best quality here.

There concept is simple as you enter the restaurant, the line is filled with jovial customers and as you look around you will notice that it is not just the patrons that are smiling ear to ear, it is the entire staff. Whether you are Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo, Keto or just hungry for some good old Californian fusion, you have come to the right place. While Flower Child is sugar-free, dairy-free and gluten-free they are far from flavor-free. Each dish is made with love and this is evident as you watch the team of chefs preparing the food right before your eyes. Dedicated to delivering incredibly healthy yet tasty dishes to your table is 100% their commitment each and every time. The overall vision to is to radiate positively delicious vibes from the moment you enter the premises until long after you leave. Whether you are craving one of their antioxidant enriched salads, wraps, bowls or sandwiches your taste buds are in for a treat.

With gourmet items from the Strawberry Fields Salad which is comprised of Organic Strawberries, Wild Arugula, Romaine, Fennel, Toasted Oats, Dried Mulberry, Coconut, Goat Cheese and topped with a Chia Seed Vinaigrette to the Spicy Coconut Curry Bowl, a combination of Grilled Pineapple, Bell Pepper, Eggplant, Zucchini, Yellow Onion, Thai Herbs and Organic Brown Rice, it is easy to see why people are flocking here with a vengeance. Make sure to order one of their signature lemonades and the Avocado Hummus starter, both items pair well with any entrée and ensure your experience is taken up a notch.

Coin & Candor, Westlake Village There are so many reasons to love this new restaurant at the Four Seasons, but the owner’s story is certainly our favorite. Inspired by David Murdock’s life story, Coin & Candor pays homage to humble beginnings and an early rise to success. In 1943 David Murdock found himself homeless after returning from serving in the United States Army during World War II. Destitute and with only a nickel and a penny in his pocket, Mr. Murdock’s life soon changed after a serendipitous encounter with a Good Samaritan who loaned him $1,200 to purchase a closing coffee shop. It was during this time that Mr. Murdock developed his keen sense for business and passion for hospitality. In a few short months following his ownership, he paid back the loan and generated a small profit of $700 after selling the business.

This was only the beginning of Mr. Murdock’s entrepreneurial success. From there, his ventures included real estate opportunities and he later acquired shares in many multinational companies.

In 1985 Mr. Murdock took over the nearly bankrupt Hawaiian firm Castle & Cooke, which owned pineapple and banana producer Dole Food Company. Mr. Murdock would later develop Castle & Cooke’s real estate portfolio into successful residential and commercial properties and under his leadership, turned Dole Food Company into the world’s largest producer of fruits and vegetables.

Today, Mr. Murdock owns Castle & Cooke, Pacific Clay and he is the Chairman and CEO of Dole Food Company. With a personal interest in health and wellness, he is actively involved in finding cures for chronic illness, advancing nutrition and investing in life expectancy research as the founding and driving principal of California Health & Longevity Institute.

Led by Executive Chef, Jose Fernandez from Barcelona, the food at Coin & Candor is just as special as its concept. Serving breakfast, brunch and dinner the food is meant to be savored. With menu items including the California Avocado served with Santa Barbara Pistachios, Lemon Zest and Seaweed Dust to the Snake River Farms Skirt Steak, the flavors certainly pop with each bite.

Being a Four Seasons, you certainly do not need to worry about getting a good server at Coin & Candor and that five-star service comes through from assisting with a wine recommendation at the beginning of the meal to finishing with a suggested dessert.

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Summer Sips: As if you needed an excuse to toast with tiny umbrellas this summer, we've rounded up a few refreshing libations to satisfy your seasonal beverage fix. Sure, there are those who believe an Arnold Palmer is refreshing and suitable for summer, and they may have a point. But when you're grilling, feasting on fresh seafood, or kicking back on the sand, some combinations of ingredients do quench the thirst better than others. Cool down this summer with one (or all) of these top-rated non-alcoholic cocktail recipes.

Rhubarb Spritz THE INGREDIENTS Grove 42: 2 oz Rhubarb Cordial*: 1/2 oz, Fever Tree Aromatic Tonic: 3 oz Ice: Cubed, Garnish: Rhubarb Ribbon Glass: Wine Glass

METHOD Fill the glass with ice, add all ingredients, top with tonic and stir. *Combine 3 chopped sticks of fresh rhubarb, 8 oz hot water & 1 cup Caster Sugar. Leave to infuse for 2 hours. Filter & refrigerate.

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Mint Cooler THE INGREDIENTS Garden 108: 2 oz, Watermelon Juice: 1 oz, Min-Stem Cordial: 1/2 oz, Fresh Lime: 1/2 oz, 4 Mint Leaves, Fever Tree Soda Water: Top, Ice: Cubed, Glass: Highball, Garnish: Basil Leaf

METHOD Lightly muddle mint leaves, add all ingredients to shaker. Strain over ice, garnish with basil leaf. *Combine 1/2 cup chopped mint stems, 250 ml hot water & 250 ml Caster Sugar. Leave to infuse for 2 hours. Filter & refrigerate.

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Picnic Smash THE INGREDIENTS Spice 94: 2 oz, Pink Grapefruit Juice: 3/4 oz, Strawberry Jam: 3 tsp's, Simple Syrup: 1/2 oz, Basil Leaf: 2, Fever Tree Soda Water: 3 oz, Ice: Cubed, Glass: Jam Jar, Garnish: Basil Leaf

METHOD Jam jar filled with ice. Add ingredients & shaken in jar with lid on, open & garnish with basil leaf.

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ENDLESS SUMMER 2019

LA TRAVEL

A WEEKEND TO UNWIND IN LUXE

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Nestled against the Santa Rosa Mountains the La Quinta Resort & Club has been a desert oasis for the who's who since its inception in the 1920's. A mere 90 minute drive from Orange County and less than 2 hours from Los Angeles, La Quinta Resort & Club is just far away enough to give you the feeling that you have completely left the stress of everyday life without ever getting on a plane.

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was easy, a pace that is slow and eases your soul. Desert colors pop before your eyes; the pink of bougainvillea sprawling across white stonewashed walls while the emerald green grass and the crystal blue skies sparkle and contrast against the red rock mountains in the distance.

After check in and a short drive you arrive to a private casita which will serve as your own secluded getaway for the next few days. The first amenity to take notice as you enter your humble abode is the private pool just steps out your front door. 41 pools on property serve guests well in the blazing heat of the Coachella Valley with temperatures that can reach as high as 120 degrees in the summer months. Grab a cocktail, jump in the pool with family and friends and jumpstart your relaxation as the vacation gods have intended.

Whether visiting for the ultimate golf getaway or just trying to escape the monotony of everyday life you will never find yourself with a dull moment while on property. This 45 acre playground has everything you could ask for at a resort including five championship golf courses, twenty-three tennis courts, forty-one outdoor pools, an award winning spa complete with a state of the art fitness facility which will come in handy when it’s time to burn off all those calories collected at the resort's seven restaurants.

As you pull up to the luxurious property your mind and body become one, the smells and sounds of desert living take over your total wellbeing allowing for pure relaxation and indulgence. A warm breeze welcomes you and as the valet opens your door and you set foot on the grounds you soak in the peaceful view of its natural surroundings as far as the eye can see. The sights remind you of a time before when life

Dining at La Quinta Resort & Club is a highlight of the property as each culinary adventure you embark on is completely different from the next. Start your day by enjoying a substantial breakfast at TWENTY6 where the resort's chefs put an imaginative twist on comfort classics getting your day started off in the right direction.

For lunch there are plenty of options on property depending on your mood, Wallaby's West at the Greg Norman clubhouse, Ernie's at the Nicklaus Clubhouse and the Center Court Cafe all serve up the best Californian cuisine one could ask for. For those that do not want to miss one ounce of pool time opt for a cabana at the main pool and order lunch directly from your lounge chair. With a plethora of fresh options from salads to sandwiches there is something for every poolside palate.

After lunch head over to Plunge the resort's adults only Après Swim Happy Hour where you can enjoy a glass of France's finest bubbly, Veuve Clicquot.

Complementing the world class champagne, Après Swim features a list of desert themed cocktails from the Citrus Oasis to the Cactus Flower and the Desert Rose. Gather with friends or loved ones to watch the infamous Palm Springs sunset drop past the mountains right before your eyes and toast the end of a blissful day.

You can’t go wrong with any of the dining options on property, but if we have to

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choose there are two standouts which have certainly stood the test of time. For a true authentic Mexican experience look no further than the Adobe Grill. Arguably the liveliest restaurant on property people come from near and far to taste the savory bites of Mexico. From the tableside Guacamole to their award-winning Margaritas to the list of over 100 tequilas, it is impossible to make a bad menu choice. It is no wonder this restaurant caters to a packed house every night of the week.

wide range of treatments are offered from mani/pedis, cleansing facials, body scrubs, signature massage treatments as well as reflexology and more. A new addition to the menu, available now through the end of September is the VYBES Calm and Balance CBD Massage. Begin your sensory journey with a flight of three VYBES hemp water concoctions to sample. The 50-minute massage incorporates therapeutic grade CBD oil to deepen mind and body relaxation while alleviating muscle and joint tension.

Another exceptional choice is Morgan's in the Desert, the properties signature dining venue. Morgan's brings the best of the Coachella Valley to its patrons’ day in and day out. By sourcing the region's finest ingredients, chef Camiel Henning will lead you on a culinary journey.

The menu offers the perfect combination of California's finest cuts of meats along with fresh caught seafood. Delicious highlights not to miss include the Dungeness Crab Salad, Roasted Cauliflower with a Chai Curry Spice, May Ranch Short Ribs and the American Wagyu Zabuton Steak. Make sure to kick off the meal with a Clicquot Lemonade and end with the decadent Chocolate Bombe for dessert.

From the witty and talented bartenders, to its swanky ambiance, paired with award-winning menu items, Morgan's in the Desert holds up to its incredulous reputation of being one of the best dining establishments in all of Coachella Valley.

La Quinta Resort & Club has long been in a league of its own when catering to the elite of Hollywood as well as travelers from all over the world. From the 1920's when the first construction began to present day, the exemplary service levels have been maintained, the grounds remain immaculate and guests continue to leave with a smile on their face. From world class golf facilities to a standout spa and a long list of exceptional dining options you are guaranteed a trip of a lifetime when you unwind in luxe at La Quinta Resort & Club.

What would a trip to the desert be without pampering yourself to achieve complete homeostasis? Not a very good vacation if you ask us. The overall feel of the resort is as tranquil as one can imagine so a trip to the spa is a wellness treat you can’t afford to miss. The staff at La Quinta Spa blends the most effective techniques with world class beauty products to provide the ultimate day of beautification, comfort and rejuvenation. A

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DRIFTING INTO THE FAST LANE “Ladies and Gentlemen, Start Your Adrenaline” is a sign you will see as you enter the BMW Performance Driving School in Thermal, CA. Located at the south end of the Coachella Valley the BMW Performance Center has quickly become one of the top facilities in North America. If driving at fast speeds, taking hairpin corners and screeching tires are your thing then a trip here is just what the doctor ordered.

Opening their doors in early 2015, the team at the BMW Performance Center set out to bring high performance BMW's of all types to the public to teach car enthusiasts how to drive their own cars to the maximum of the car’s ability in a safe environment. Several driving experiences are offered at the center whether looking to learn how to master slick, wet conditions or just trying your hand at taking an M4 out for a joy ride, the choice is yours.

Our experience at the Performance Center was as exhilarating as we could have ever imagined. We started off with a safety briefing inside a classroom where we were introduced to two course instructors, both professional race car drivers. This certainly set the mind at ease knowing you are in the hands of overqualified experts. After our briefing we were given our helmets and each of

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us got behind the wheel of four different cars, an M4, M3, one convertible and the X5 SUV. Our instructor set us up for a comfortable and safe ride and off we went to test the limits of each vehicle. Following behind the leader who was talking to us through a CB radio located inside each car we learned the ins and outs of high performance racing.

One by one we ripped around the track and were instructed to “Hit the pedal to the metal!” “Screech those tires, burn that gas up!”

Five laps later all drivers were instructed to pull to the starting line and swap vehicles, thus giving each rider a chance to feel the power and handling of each model. After racing all four models we were told we were now ready for a “Hot Lap”. Not knowing exactly what that was you could say we were all a little intrigued.

Our instructor took us each in his car as he got behind the wheel and showed us how a professional would drive this course and the experience is hard to put into words. Exhilarating is an understatement.

Our instructor was a professional drifter and he took all the corners completely sideways as fast as the car would handle it. It was a ride we will never forget and a few of us had no words when the ride was over just a look of pure amazement as we pondered how we had survived.

Once the first experience was complete, we started feeling like pros and we were ready to race each other during a session of timed laps, this is where the true competition begins! Our instructor briefly showed us how we should take each corner for proper handling and one by one we took the track at maximum speed to compete for the fastest time. As you cross the finish line you see your time up on a monitor and the instructor makes sure to announce who is in the lead to get you even more eager to secure a win. Each driver has five chances to solidify the best time and at the end the winner is announced making for a very fun and competitive experience.

The last experience for the day was to take to the large race track to really feel the maximum speeds of these cars on a full NASCAR style race. The leader starts out like normal and one by one each car is instructed to stay no more than a car length away from the car in front of you to keep the pack together.

After coming into each corner, you’re instructed to find your line and once that wheel is straight, put the pedal to the floor and let that engine roar. With speeds up to 130 mph on the average you can definitely feel the G forces behind the wheel of these performance vehicles giving you the full BMW experience.

To finish the day off we did a final “Hot Lap” with our instructor, this time with a lot more top end speed, white knuckling the entire time. As we walked back to our car after the BMW Performance experience, we suddenly had the urge to see what our own cars could do out on the open road but then we soon remembered that would be illegal. We will just have to wait until next time to fulfill the need for speed as we certainly will be back.

HIPPOS GONE WILD When the Colombian government took control of Pablo Escobar’s 8-square-mile estate at Hacienda Nápoles in 1993, Escobar’s pet hippos were abandoned, left to fend for themselves in the small lake they inhabited on the estate. More than two decades after his death, the hippos, native to Africa, have since escaped into the Antioquian landscape and are settling into small lakes and ponds to thrive, giving scientists a rare chance to study these hippos gone rogue – and creating an interesting new focal point for Colombia's burgeoning tourism industry.

The same rich ecosystem that gives Colombia its remarkable biodiversity of pink river dolphins, monkeys, manatees and more species of birds than any other country in the world has proven to be an ideal environment for the hippos. Unlike in Africa, where hippos must survive severe dry seasons and defend themselves

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from crocodiles and hyenas, Colombia is predator free, enjoys rain year-round, and now has nearly 15 times the number of hippos than when it started.

True Colombia Travel, which specializes in offering fully customized cultural, culinary and environmental tours throughout the rural and urban regions of Colombia, takes travelers on an exclusive wildlife viewing experience as part of their True Adventure tour. Guests can sip gourmet coffee on a boat ride down the Corcorna Sur river, explore hidden caves by lamplight, and search the Magdalena for the chance to see the only wild Colombian hippos in the world.

Before you plan your own hippo-spotting safari, here are five things you should know about these improbable Colombian pachyderms:

THEY’RE GROWING INTO A (REALLY) BIG, HAPPY FAMILY In the 1980s, Escobar decided he wanted to collect illegal wildlife in from various reaches of the globe, in the interest of creating his own exotic menagerie. Through the years, Escobar smuggled big cats, kangaroos, as well as four hippos, to his compound in the Colombian Andes. The four original hippos – one male and three females still occupy the same small lake next to the mansion, though the hacienda’s herd is now approximately six times larger. In fact, those four original hippos have done so well in Colombia that estimates put the total hippo population in the country at around 60 today.

THEY’RE GIVING SCIENTISTS A CHANCE TO “TIME TRAVEL” South America has lost dozens of giant herbivores in the last 20,000 years, so the presence of hippos in Colombia is letting researchers get a sense of a period thousands of years ago, when massive plant-eating creatures like mammoths, mastodons and giant sloths roamed the Americas. When these “ecological ghosts” went extinct, grasslands and savannahs turned to forests. The hippo project represents a rare opportunity for scientists to see what effects these large animals might have had on ancient ecosystems.

THEY’RE DANGEROUS, YET LOVABLE While hippos are known to be highly territorial and famously aggressive, no serious injuries or deaths have occurred in Colombia.

The only significant controversy around the animals came back in 2009, a couple years after the first reports of the mysterious creatures began coming in from farmers in Antioquia, when the Colombian military shot and killed a rogue male hippo. The incident led to immense international public outcry as the species is classified as vulnerable to extinction. The bad press quickly put an end to any plans of a hippo cull in Antioquia, but many experts remain concerned about the ever-growing population.

THESE HIPPOS ARE MAKING THEMSELVES RIGHT AT HOME Hippos are highly territorial animals and the original male, El Viejo, which translates to “Old Man,” has claimed the original lake at Hacienda Nápoles as his own territory. As a result, when the other male hippos reach adulthood, El Viejo chases them out of the family pond, forcing them out into the Magdalena valley’s many rivers, taking them hundreds of miles into the Colombian countryside in search of mates. In response, the Colombian government has been working to control the growing population by castrating the males, which is no easy task – hippos are notoriously challenging to anesthetize and equally as challenging to operate on due to their thick skin and high fat content.

NO ONE IS SURE WHAT TO DO WITH THE HIPPOS NOW The presence of a large and potentially dangerous species in a new environment raises a number of serious safety and environmental questions. Yet, the unprecedented emergence of such a large and compelling foreign species represents an exciting opportunity for conservation studies, as well as exotic wildlife viewing in the country.

Whatever ends up happening with these resilient “river horses,” it just goes to show that Colombia – with its acres of undiscovered forests, innovative cities and blossoming permaculture practices – is always full of surprises.

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VINA DEL Mar-velous

By Katie McElveen

It’s nearly 6pm in Vina del Mar, Chile, and while I should be getting ready to meet friends for drinks, I can’t pull myself away from my balcony at the Sheraton Miramar hotel and the sunset that’s erupting over the cobalt Pacific in a startling blaze of red, yellow and pink.

Though that deep blue Pacific can be chilly, Vina del Mar’s beaches are beautiful, perfect curves of golden sand fronting dramatic rock formations and those glorious sunsets. The city is a stunner, too. Vina del Mar is often called the Garden City, and it’s easy to see why: flowers tumble from baskets placed atop streetlights, down hillside embankments and across beautifully planted beds. There’s even the Flower Clock, a massive working watch face made entirely from flowers.

Vina del Mar’s most famous park is Quinta Vergara. Filled with busts of famous Chileans and beautiful plantings, it surrounds Palacio Vergara, which was once home to the

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city’s founding family, the Vergaras. Damaged during an earthquake, the palacio, and the fine arts museum it houses, are both, unfortunately, closed indefinitely. But the rambling park is still pristine.

Extending North/South for more than 2,600 miles—from Polar to Equatorial--Chile has one of the most diverse climates on earth. Founded in 1937, the Fonck Museum of Archaeology and Natural History details it all with dioramas showcasing country’s varied plants and animals; a whole floor devoted to otherworldly insects; art, jewelry and furnishings created by ancient residents of this part of the world and a collection of important artifacts from Easter Island. An ancient monolithic figure—or moai--brought over from Easter Island in the 1950’s towers over the entrance. The museum shop has a small collection of locally-made crafts; across the street, at Faba, you can find excellent pieces of jewelry crafted from Lapis Lazuli, a cobalt-colored stone mined throughout Chile.

Since dinner in Chile doesn’t begin until at least 9pm, consider a late lunch, as I did, on the sunny patio at Divino Pecado just off the palm-studded Plaza Colombia. I started with a tart pisco sour before moving on to plump machas— local pink razor clams--broiled with gruyere and a bit of white wine. Beyond fish like house-smoked salmon, the restaurant serves a variety of fresh pasta dishes. For dinner, I headed to Chez Gerard, which serves beautifully-plated ceviche sprinkled with giant roasted corn kernels as well as salads, grilled dishes and lots of homemade pastas. It’s located across from Acapulco Beach.

Edgier and hillier, neighboring Valparaiso is a UNESCO World Heritage city that was also a favorite of Chilean poet, diplomat and Nobel Prize recipient Pablo Neruda.

Perched atop Cerro Bellavista, a high hill overlooking Valparaiso Bay, La Sebastiana, one of Pablo Neruda’s three homes in Chile, is lovingly eccentric. Brightly colored inside and out, the five-level house is a curio of Neruda’s collections; an audio tour led me through the narrow hallways and warren of rooms using Neruda’s many objects—a stuffed bird, a carousel horse, a 17th-century map of the world featuring a

misspelling of “Chili”—to tell the story of a Nobel-winning poet who went on to serve as a diplomat. After a visit, I explored the painted streets of Valparaiso, where schools of fish and tilted skylines decorate buildings, doorways have been transformed into magical entries and cat’s eyes gaze down onto the scene. Stairways, often decorated with paint or tile, are everywhere and lead to funky galleries, hole-in-the-wall restaurants and tea houses, which are just now beginning to share the spotlight with Chile’s small but growing coffee culture. They’re worth a visit: some local tea houses, like Color Café, not only craft their own blends but are often happy to formulate a custom cup. And the coffee is pretty good, too.

Valparaiso’s hottest restaurant is Tres Peces, a fish-only restaurant occupying an early 19th-century building in the Cerro Conception neighborhood. Open since mid-2018, the restaurant serves sustainable species caught by local fishermen; the menu, which changes each day, ranges from simple dishes like abalone with mayonnaise to local tuna steamed and scented with Asian spices and served alongside jasmine rice and seaweed salad. Don’t skip the bread, piping hot pan amasado meant to be slathered with butter or oil then dabbed with spicy pebre that resembles pico de gallo and starts nearly every meal in Chile.

Quirky funiculars from the late 19th century are a fun way to tame Valparaiso’s city’s steep hills, but I preferred the staircases, which offered views of neighborhood herb and vegetable gardens, pop-up artist markets, playgrounds and more glorious street art.

Where to Stay Resembling the stern of a giant ship and set right on the beach, the Sheraton Miramar was built in the 1940’s and was the region’s first luxury hotel. It’s been renovated many times (you can still see the original rock-lined swimming pool, which was fed by the ocean); today it’s a luxurious full-service resort sporting two pools (one inside and the other jutting out over the ocean), several restaurants, a kid’s club, a large, well-equipped gym and a spa with a soaking tub facing the ocean. Each of the resort’s 142 rooms are surprisingly spacious and have balconies overlooking the Pacific. It’s also popular with celebrities in town for the International Song Festival, a fiveday event that takes place each February and fills the city with top acts from all over the world.

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5 Road Trip

Destinations to Visit this SEASON

By Katie McCabe Living in SoCal comes with so many great perks - year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, beautiful beaches, a diverse food scene, and an abundance of nearby destinations that are perfect for any road trip adventure. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend getaway or an extended stay, I've got you covered with five incredible destinations that are an easy, and scenic, jaunt from Los Angeles.

YOSEMITE If you have yet to visit Yosemite, it's time! Regarded as one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, Yosemite is filled with one incredible attraction after the next. Walk amongst giant sequoias, feel the powerful spray of Vernal Falls, stand in awe of breathtaking viewpoints, and if you're feeling up to the challenge, hike the mighty Half Dome. Yosemite has enough activities to keep you busy for weeks! You might need more than one road trip to see all that this beauty has to offer.

Distance from L.A. - 300 miles / 5 hours

ZION Located in Southwest Utah, Zion National Park is the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies. Relaxation is possible here, however, this park wants to be experienced to the fullest. Hikes such as The Narrows and Angel's Landing offer thrill-seekers a one-of-a-kind experience, while activities like rock climbing and canyoneering can be extremely rewarding.

Distance from L.A. - 500 miles / 7 hours

SEDONA Surrounded by impressive red rock formations and fragrant pine forests, Sedona is certainly the jewel of Arizona. This serene town attracts its fair share of spiritual seekers, artists, and vacationers. Known to have healing energy, Sedona is the perfect place to visit to feel inspired, recharged, and uplifted.

Distance from L.A. - 500 miles / 7 hours

BIG SUR Ralph Waldo Emerson once said "It's not the destination, it's the journey." Those words certainly ring true whenever Big Sur comes to mind. This captivating journey will take you along one of California's most picturesque routes. Filled with rugged coastline, winding roads, and an abundance of natural wonders, you'll definitely want to stop every five minutes for a photo op. A few sights not to miss -- Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and Carmel.

Distance from L.A. - 300 miles / 5 hours

SOLVANG Only two hours north of Los Angeles is the adorable town of Solvang. Visitors wander around admiring Danish-style architecture, sampling local wines, and eating way too many pastries. "California's Denmark" (a very fitting nickname) may be small but it sure does offer a lot. Those looking for a more unique experience can feed an ostrich, visit a miniature horse farm, or explore a vintage motorcycle museum.

Distance from L.A. - 125 miles / 2 hours

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live and invest Overseas Finding a country or area where things are cheap isn’t necessarily about saving money.

It’s about going somewhere your money will go further. A destination that your budget will allow for a higher standard of living. A place where the cost of living is less than the United States but offers similar services and amenities, offering the type of life you've been dreaming about but never thought you could afford.

The following places offer a quality of life similar to or even higher than in the U.S. Living overseas is an adventure, a chance to experience a different culture, try new things, and gather enriching experiences. If you are looking to do this while living a higher standard of life and maybe even increasing your bank balance, then one of the following locations may be the perfect fit for your new beginning.

Lisbon portugal One of Lisbon’s many claims to fame is having arguably the best climate in Europe. The city benefits from more hours of sunshine than most of Europe’s other major cities.

When things get too hot, you can rely on the cooling properties of the Atlantic sea breeze.

Temperatures fall during the winter but still remain mild.

Lisbon has yellow-sand beaches close to its city center, enabling you to take full advantage of the warm weather. Unlike the beaches you sometimes find near to big cities, these are clean and the water isn’t polluted. It’s no surprise Portugal has one of the highest concentrations of blue-flag beaches in the world.

The capital has become more expensive over the past couple of years, but you can still find bargain living… if you know where to look.

Real estate prices in Lisbon are forecasted to continue rising. Investors from across the world believe now is the time to buy property here.

Living in Lisbon means you will never run out of things to do. There are restaurants to discover down every quiet street. And it isn’t just Portuguese food, Lisbon has a range of cuisines. As you would expect from a coastal town, it has delicious, fresh seafood. The country’s historic ties with India have led to some excellent curry houses and Goan food.

For those with a sweet tooth, pasteis de nata are legendary. These custard-filled pastries are native to the city and perfect with a coffee.

This city has a thriving cultural scene with opera houses and theaters. If you prefer live music you can find venues across the city.

Keep an eye out for Fado, a Portuguese version of the blues. Lisbon’s other attractions include a fine aquarium, shopping, and a range of quirky bars.

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Abruzzo italy One of Italy’s most undervalued regions but one of its most scenic. The countryside is wilder and more rugged than other parts of Italy—which has kept people away in the past. But with the expat lifestyle becoming more mainstream every year, more people are starting to take notice of underpopulated Abruzzo… especially those looking for authentic and unspoiled Italy.

Abruzzo has the twin attractions of towering mountains and yellow-sand beaches. It’s possible to ski in the morning and go for a swim in the afternoon. Much of the region is designated as a National Park… perfect for outdoorsy types and hikers.

Abruzzo will suit expats looking to live a relaxed life at a slower pace. It’s a great place to grow fruit—and vegetables.

You can easily become self-sufficient or at least grow enough seasonal produce to considerably lower your food bill.

Speaking of food, the region has a wide range of excellent produce. This includes fresh seafood as well as the usual meats, cheeses, pastas, and breads you expect in Italy. The local wines make a perfect accompaniment.

Abruzzo has an international airport close to Pescara and Rome is a straightforward drive away, boasting even more options for flying. Public transport is reliable and punctual, you can easily and comfortably take coach trips across the region and even to further afield.

Cali colombia Colombia’s third-largest city is the home of Salsa music and bargain real estate. Cali is a city for its inhabitants, rather than for tourists. Life here is never dull, something is always going on. Although, those who are looking for famous attractions will be disappointed.

To enjoy Cali you need to do as the locals do and enjoy the lifestyle in this salsa-mad city. You won’t be stuck for new places to eat… you can find fresh seafood and excellent steaks.

Although the Colombian economy is booming, the strong dollar means your money will go a long way in this city.

Santo Domingo dominican republic Santo Domingo, the oldest European city anywhere in the Americas, is up-and-coming—benefiting from the investments made by both the government and private sector in the Dominican Republic.

For a long time, the country was under French rule and their architectural influence remains… something unusual for Caribbean Islands.

This haven is one of the last places you can find true value in the Caribbean. Beachfront property is cheap, with many financing deals available. These properties can be rented out and deliver a decent, reliable return. Plus, real estate values are expected to rise in the coming years. An investment in property can also get you on the road to a Dominican Republic residency, which is quick and easy to obtain.

Santo Domingo has a thriving restaurant scene and plenty of live music venues playing the local merengue music until the early hours. The country has some of the best beaches in the world, where you can enjoy sailing, surfing, and windsurfing—all popular here. Plus, the Dominican Republic is among the world’s premier kitesurfing destinations. If you prefer a more leisurely trip to the beach there are plenty of sheltered beaches perfect for swimming and paddling.

Placencia belize

Cali was a sleepy town for many years but burst into the public consciousness in the late 90s… not in a good way—it was a hotbed for drug trafficking. Thankfully, those days are in the past and Cali is rebuilding and looking to the future. As with every city, there are areas to avoid, but safety isn’t a big issue overall.

Placencia is a relatively undiscovered part of Belize—hence the cheap real estate. But things are changing… fast. Five-star accommodation is springing up, along with restaurants, bars, and all other amenities. In short, everything you would expect from a top Caribbean resort.

Cali has a modern, well-planned infrastructure and public transport system. Integrated into the existing network are wide-ranging and inexpensive buses and cable cars. The best living is to be found in west Cali. This area has many of the best neighborhoods and a wide range of prices… meaning many cheap apartments.

Seeing its potential, investors are starting to buy property across Placencia. Infrastructure has been improved and the roads to and from the village are now as manageable as you will find in Belize. That doesn’t mean you won’t find numerous potholes and bumps, but you can safely get to your destination.

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Da Nang vietnam Construction is underway on an international airport close to this eco-destination, which will provide a boost to tourist numbers and local property prices. If you are thinking of establishing a business, consider catering to these new tourists.

With the barrier reef a short distance out to sea, Placencia is popular with scuba divers and snorkelers. There is a dazzling array of different fish species swimming in the crystal-clear waters, many unique to Belize.

Inland, you have the tropical jungles. As with everywhere in Belize, they are home to a diverse range of different rare and endangered species. Maya ruins and temples lie hidden in the deep vegetation, making for spectacular hiking and day trips. If you are thinking of renting out your property for part of the year, these are strong selling points.

Durango City mexico Durango, in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, is a quiet town with well-preserved architecture. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself with a sense of déjà vu walking around town. It’s best known for the number of western movies filmed here. Durango isn’t well-known to expats, which allows you to experience authentic Mexican life… and authentic Mexican prices.

Mostly a university town, the place has an energetic, positive feel to it. There’s an excellent American school providing private education and serves as a place to meet fellow expats.

Durango is a clean city, without the debris and litter that you find elsewhere in Mexico. As a result, the cobbled streets and well-preserved colonial buildings are shown in their best light.

Like Colombia, Mexico continues to get negative write-ups in the press. There are frequent travel warnings and horror stories reported on the news networks. Remember, there are bad areas everywhere and the United States has some of the worst in the world. If you aren’t involved in drug trafficking, you will be as safe in Mexico as at home in the States. You can easily find out which areas you should avoid by speaking with locals or basic research online.

Da Nang is a popular tourist town with fast-growing infrastructure and an international airport. There are a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the region as well as miles of beautiful beaches. In addition to being a popular tourist town, Da Nang is a thriving business region and still growing fast.

Daily living costs in Vietnam are low enough that most expats eat out for at least two meals a day. Many simply never cook, partly because of the quality of Vietnamese food. The street food is delicious, fresh, and there’s a seemingly endless variety.

Vietnam real estate took off in 2015, when the government made it easier for foreigners to own property. Although it’s still not possible for foreigners to own real estate outright, you can buy on a 50-year lease and retain the usual rights.

Contact a reputable local lawyer to help you get through the bureaucracy which can be difficult to navigate.

Owning property in Vietnam doesn’t entitle you to a visa, which is one drawback. The maximum stay permitted is 90 days, so you will need to budget for frequent trips to the border for a new tourist visa.

Chiang Mai thailand There are any number of towns where you can live cheaply in Thailand. Chiang Mai is a favorite, due to its relaxed pace of life and excellent infrastructure.

Chiang Mai, not as cheap as the internet may have you believe, is one of the more upscale places to live in Thailand. The standard of living is high but you can live well on a social security check. The city has a more relaxed feel to it than other big cities in the country—even the traffic seems less manic. The city is also safer, pickpockets are rare, and lots of the drunken crime you see in other Thai cities is absent.

This is a modern, international city with top-quality hospitals, international schools, restaurants, and shopping.

You can find almost anything in Chiang Mai, even imported goods are inexpensive here. The local markets are the best places to buy everything you need… from food to electronics, clothes, and shoes.

There is a strong expat community made up of people from all over the world. Many of these are digital nomads who take advantage of the cheap, high-speed internet. The many hospitals and schools provide the city with a young, educated workforce and give the impression of a city on the way up.

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©2019 IMPORTED IMPORTED BY BIRRA PERONI INTERNAZIONALE, WASHINGTON, DC • BEER ©2019

SoCal Airport Update

MAJOR SERVICE EXPANSION CONTINUES AT ONTARIO INTERNATIONAL

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The rapid expansion of commercial air service at Ontario International Airport (ONT) continues with the inauguration of United Airlines nonstop flights serving Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

ONT now reaches 21 domestic and international destinations with nonstop service.

United’s new flight is scheduled to arrive from IAH at 10:55 p.m. (PDT), with return service to Houston departing at 11:45 p.m. United already provides daily nonstop service to San Francisco and Denver from Terminal 2 at ONT, the nation’s fastest-growing airport.

“We firmly believe that by providing the exceptional customer service that airlines and air travelers have come to expect from world-class airports, Ontario Airport will be an excellent choice for travel to or from Southern California,” said Mark Thorpe, chief executive officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority. “The additional flights by some of our longest-committed airline partners reaffirm that ONT is indeed a viable aviation gateway for the region.”

The air service development wave began at ONT in April with the start of Delta Air Lines’ daily, non-stop service to its Atlanta hub. A second roundtrip will be added soon. Southwest Airlines will also add new daily service to San Francisco with four flights a day Monday through Friday, three flights on Saturday and two on Sunday.

Southwest, which operates from Terminal 4, will also add to its current service to Denver with a mid-morning departure Monday through Friday.

Summer travel through ONT is forecast to increase by nearly 14% this summer, more than four times the expected increase nationally. More than 1.6 million air travelers are expected to arrive and depart ONT between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States, according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport with nonstop commercial jet service to 21 major airports in the U.S., Mexico and Taiwan, and connecting service to many domestic and international destinations. There is an average of 73 daily departures offered by nine air carriers.

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ocated between Heathrow and Gatwick Airport lies a secret countryside gem hidden in the Surrey Hills known as Beaverbrook.

A country estate named after press Baron Lord Beaverbrook, a friend of the late Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill.

I truly never knew what the fuss was all about when people spoke of the English Countryside, until the morning I woke up at Beaverbrook. I had to pinch myself. Out of the 18 elegantly styled rooms by Susie Atkinsom, which were named after famous visitors, I had the pleasure of staying in the Ian Fleming studio suite. The room was decorated with elements from the author’s most famous literary works. Silhouettes of women and images from the introductory scenes of James Bond all framed on English wallpaper along with a staple piece, a very large James Bond photograph hanging over an epic bathtub. All the makings of a bond film within one suite.

as my therapist, Kate, who surveyed my personal preferences in order to learn focus points that needed extra attention, applied the perfect level of pressure. After a quick selection of essential oil cultivated locally, I was transported into a state of bliss. In that moment all your woes and travel body aches disappear. It is just you, your spirit, and a magical and loving therapist, who performs her Reiki energy healing towards the end of the massage. In the end, I was in a meditative state full of gratitude and basking under the magnificent light of yet, another glass stained window. Never has my vessel of a body been treated with so much love and delicate attention and for that I will always be grateful.

Immediately walking out onto the picturesque private terrace you can feel the crisp fresh morning air while admiring the rolling Surrey hills. The gardens lined with English lavender and rose bushes, the hedges pristine. I felt humbled and in complete peace whilst listening to the local birds chirping. It was the perfect setting; one I could sit and view all day, but breakfast and the spa were calling my name.

A quick jaunt down the winding spiraled staircase takes you down to the Dining Room complete with beautiful and charming English decor, large windows and expansive green country views. Lucky for this California girl, Avocado Toast was on the menu. Sipping my breakfast tea and listening to Brazilian Jazz music in the background brought my morning breakfast experience to life.

Surrounded by 470 acres of rolling hills and perfectly manicured luscious gardens sits The Coach House Spa, a relaxation haven where one could easily while the day away. You will be absolutely mesmerized by the extraordinary bright and bold stain-glass windowed ceilings, designed

by British Artist, Brian Clarke. The artistic floral designs inspired by the local flora captures natural sunlight beautifully enhancing every room. As you walk under the beauty of the vibrant colors towards your treatment room, you will hear the sound of water lightly cascading down the steps.

Out of all the offerings on the menu, their Holistic Massage is a beautiful blend of East meets West.

The massage itself started with a tender foot bath

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Post-treatment, a trip to the relaxation area is the perfect place to continue the relaxation. Allow yourself to melt into the plush sofas, reflect and soak in the beautiful mind/body journey you just landed back from. Should you have worked up an appetite, the deli is a wonderful place to have a healthy salad, green smoothie or celebratory glass of champagne.

The Coach House has an enchanting store stocked with independent British jewelers, designer wear and spa brands. Majority of the products sold are hand-made, using recyclable materials.

What I love about Beaverbrook as a whole is how much importance is placed on environmental sustainability, sourcing everything locally from flowers and food, to artists and designers.

Next time I am in England, it is safe to say you will find me back at Beaverbrook indulging in the peaceful and elegant English countryside.

Getting There: Start your luxurious getaway in Upper-Class with a seat from LAX to LON via Virgin Atlantic.

Upper Class cabins offer roomy leather seats that double as sumptuous flat beds, ensuring you arrive refreshed and ready for anything.

Settle in with a cozy throw and entertainment tablet, recline and relax with a glass of bubbly as you start your journey to Great Britain.

The airline goes above and beyond with the in-flight menus. The items include local favorites

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from tea and biscuits to decadent main dishes and snacks galore. Guests can also enjoy a rotating selection of beverages and an elevated wine program to kick off their trip.

For those cost conscious travelers opt to treat yourself to the Premium Cabin.

You will be thankful for those extra few inches of space. Start your trip with a glass of bubbly as you board and peruse the numerous amount of entertainment options in front of you. With a Premium seat you will have a choice of three main courses, served in chinaware with proper cutlery and a premium linen napkin. Indulge in that after dinner drink or second glass of champagne, we won't judge!

To book your direct flight to London from Los Angeles visit virginatlantic.com.

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EUROSTAR TO BELGIUM My journey started at the St. Pancras International Station in London, as I climbed aboard Eurostar, the only high speed train that directly links the UK to France, Belgium, and the Netherlands through the Channel Tunnel, I couldn't help but feel lucky for making the train in the first place. Because I had opted for a ticket in Business class I was able to show up at the last minute to catch the train and unlike other trips there was no one to give me dirty looks because I had arrived late, or in my world right on time.

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"...Brussels would not be complete without a stop at this hotspot which serves over 2000 types of beer."

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combined to create a serene and tranquil residential feel during your stay. Amenities include king size or twin beds, a Nespresso coffee machine, a walk-in shower, a smart HD TV and a wireless sound system.

Just minutes after arrival I was already in an Uber and off to check-in to my hotel, the Pillows Grand Hotel Place Rouppe. A quick ten minute drive dropped me in front of a neoclassical building that blended with its surroundings. Upon entering the lobby of the newly refurbished property you are welcomed by the staff at the Living-Resto & Winebar, the dining establishment onsite. There is no front desk I realize quickly as a staff member guides me to a table at the restaurant and offers me an arrival drink. She sits down with me to briefly go over my reservation before heading up to my room. The check-in process is smooth and takes just a few minutes to complete.

After unwinding a bit in my plush king size bed I decided it was time to hit the town and see what this city was all about. It had been over ten years since my last visit and I knew things had changed. With a craving for Mexican food, it was Cinco de Mayo after all, and a recommendation from the staff it was off to check out Los Tacos.

Complete with a mariachi singer, tequila shots and fajitas this place did not disapoint. We had such a great time we ended up meeting two locals that decided to become our tour guides for the evening. They took us to a handful of sites including the infamous Manneken Pis, a famous bronze sculpture of a little boy urinating. The locals sure have an interesting way of paying tribute to their sense of humor. The current statue is a replica which dates from 1965 while the original is kept in the Museum of the City of Brussels.

nce on board, I found my seat, stored my luggage above and took out my laptop. I had planned to get a few hours of writing in but as I sat back and relaxed in the comfortable seats a server strolled by and handed me a glass of champagne. After champs and a delicious lunch I had arrived in the centre of Brussels.

The trip time was roughly under two hours in total which went by quicker than I had imagined it would.

The property offers an ideal location to immerse yourself in the pulse of the city which is why I had chosen it as my homebase to explore everything Brussels has to showcase. Just a few steps away from the city’s best sights, local entertainment scene complete with bars, restaurants, theatres and galleries, you can pretty much walk everywhere and certainly do not need a car.

The rooms are modern and simple with all the comfort and amentities one could need. Each of their 43 rooms unveil spacious windows, fine linens, original artworks and a dash of contemporary design all

After explaining the point of this structure we were told there is another statue of a girl and it is situated perfectly next door to one of the best beer bars in Brussels, Delirium CafĂŠ. If you enjoy a brewski or two then a trip to Brussels would not be complete without a stop at this hotspot which serves over 2000 types of beer. Delirium CafĂŠ holds the Guinness World Record for the most beers offered with 2004 which was obtained in 2004. Here beer enthusiasts can choose from the Trappists, famous Belgian Abbay, strong brown beers, fruits or lighter from Belgium and the world. For those looking to try something new they offer unusual beers like chocolate, banana, with walnut Coco, spices, hot pepper, gingerbread and even gluten free beers.

The night ended with a gaze upon the Jeanneke Pis, a modern fountain and statue depicting a little girl with her hair in pigtails. This particular status, as if being shamed is unfortunately situated hidden at the dead end of an alley.

As we said goodbye to our newfound friends we know had reason to return to the city. There is so much to see and do in the city and with our own personal tour guides offering to show us around the next time we pay a visit it makes the decision to return that much easier!

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SWITZERLAND

You are a Breath of Fresh Air

Driving along the gorgeous backdrop of Lake Geneva, winding through quaint villages that look straight out of a fairytale and then ending your journey at one of the most stunning properties you will ever lay eyes on has got to make you question if this is real life or just a dream. Le Mirador Resort & Spa is quite frankly Switzerland's best kept secret.

Before we discuss the current beauty of this iconic landmark let’s take a look back over the past 115 64

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years to fully appreciate and follow the historical timeline that has brought it to where it is today.

Built as a medical center in 1904, the property has a rich past. After surviving WWII, being sold three different times in 1950,1962 and 1970, the location was finally renamed L'Hotel Le Mirador by American entrepreneur, Joseph Segel. Segel had fallen in love with the hotel and surrounding region while

visiting Switzerland with his wife and decided to take action, making it his new home.

After implementing major improvements annually to the hotel, Le Mirador became quite the popular destination for international business and gained tremendous traction in the global travel world over the next twenty years. Segel went on to sell Le Mirador in 1990 to a Japanese company and after spending the next three years continuously vacationing there, in 1993 he decided to buy it back. Two years later in 1995 Le Mirador had gained so much success that it was accepted as a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

The hotel went on to be sold two more times, once in 1998 and again recently in 2016. Today Le Mirador stands as one of the most luxurious retreats in all of Switzerland with its unique ability to reach higher levels of quality year after year. Its spectacular location is the obvious draw for most travelers. Before even setting foot inside your room guests enter the lobby and take in the magical sights of Lake Geneva just below. During check-in guests enjoy a bird's eye view

of the pristine bluish green waters below with snowcapped mountains everywhere the eye can see. Located at the heart of the vineyards of the Lavaux Region, Le Mirador is truly an oasis that needs to be visited to be fully appreciated as it offers a breath of fresh air you didn’t know you needed.

There is an overwhelming feeling of peace and serenity when you are gazing out at the view of the Swiss Alps, the Rhone Valley and the entire Swiss Riviera. There truly is not many locations that can cleanse your soul like Mont Pèlerin and its surrounding landscapes.

Although it would be easy to talk about the surrounding landscapes and views from Le Mirador Resort & Spa, the hotel itself is nothing less than spectacular. With over fifty years of fine tuning they got it right. Their incredulous level of Swiss hospitality provided throughout the resort is a top reason guests keep coming back. The hotel consists of both contemporary and traditional rooms and suites including 45 new junior suites with spacious private terraces that offer incredible views of the surrounding natural beauty. All rooms come with all the luxuries you would expect from a fivestar resort paired with the comforts of your own home.

The property offers exquisite culinary journeys at both Le Patio for Swiss

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fusion cuisine as well as Hinata, the newest addition Japanese restaurant. Each signature dining establishment offers a menu filled with authentic dishes that change with the season. From an award-winning list of Swiss cheeses to their local selection of wines they literally pull from their front yard like the Olivier Ducret, Vigneron-encaveur La Confrary Chardonne the dining program is top notch.

After delving into the delicious menus there are plenty of ways to burn off those calories on property, whether you are in the mood for an invigorating workout at the fitness center or want to take a plunge in the resort's dome covered pool, there is

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something for everyone. One of the main draws to the resort is the world-famous Givenchy Spa where more than 40 different treatments are offered. There is nothing better than a day of pampering while you gaze out over the stunning landscapes as far as the eye can see.

Le Mirador Resort & Spa offers a one of kind experience and a dose of serenity that can take your breath away with every sunrise and sunset. Fine wines, world class spa treatments, decadent international and local cuisine all done with the highest standard of service, it truly is hard to beat this destination.

ROSS NAISMITH

Professional Bagpiper, Teacher, Reed-maker & Judge A true professional bagpiper servicing San Diego, Los Angeles, and all areas in-between.

W: bagpiperross.com P : (619) 206-9728 E : ross.r.naismith@gmail.com

6 TRIPS TO BROADEN YOUR MIND Now that school’s out for summer, enroll the whole family in a crash course on nature and wildlife with Natural Habitat Adventures

Summer vacation may mean “no more pencils and no more books,” but it can also be a great opportunity for the whole family to learn something new together. Natural Habitat Adventures, the world leader in eco-friendly wildlife-focused expeditions around the globe, offers nature-centric trips designed to get explorers of all ages trading their tablets and phones for GoPros and binoculars.

From sailing “Darwin’s Laboratory” in the Galapagos on a private ship to taking moonlit treks through the jungles of Costa Rica, Nat Hab’s family adventure trips are designed around conservation, curiosity and quality time – all disguised as a vacation.

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Expand your family’s horizons with these summer experiences:

1 GO EXPLORING IN "DARWINS LABORATORY"

Come face-to-face with an outstanding array of wildlife, including sea lions, marine iguanas and giant tortoises. Made famous by evolutionary theorist Charles Darwin, the Galapagos archipelago is the very best place for young explorers to learn about evolution, natural selection and how animals adapt to micro-environments.

Sail aboard the National Geographic Islander, a family-friendly ship with a specialty research- and adventure-focused kids’ program on board. Record wildlife sightings in your field notebook, listen for underwater life via the ship’s hydrophone and stretch out in special family cabins designed to sleep up to three. Off-ship, don a wetsuit for snorkeling, paddleboarding and Zodiac adventures with your naturalist Expedition Leader, where you can come mask-to-nose with penguins, turtles and seals.

2 SEEK OUT LIONS AFTER SUNSET IN THE MAASAI MARA

Make conservation the centre of the conversation featuring the Maasai Mara’s charismatic creatures whose futures may be at risk. Learn about poaching and pachyderm rescue during a visit to the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and make friends in high places at the Giraffe Center before heading along the Great Rift Valley into open grasslands. Stretch out in an unfenced luxury tented camp set in the middle of a Maasai Mara private conservancy, and go for guided walks under a sprawling blue sky while keeping your eyes peeled for zebras, hippos and elephants. Later, as evening falls, head out on a sunset game drive in search of lions and other predators to discover life on the plains after dark.

Beauty & Essex Photography: Warren Jagger

4 SAFARI CLOSER TO HOME IN YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure without leaving the continent.

Learn how this North American ecosystem works, understanding the importance of ecological balance between predators and prey, and follow naturalist Expedition Leaders into lesser-known areas of the park where bison, bighorn sheep, bears and wolves live largely undisturbed by tourist crowds. See the secret lives of Lamar Valley wolves using a high-powered spotting scope and talk fire ecology—how nature recovers from the ravages of wildfires—with your guide. In an extraordinary natural setting selected for conservation by President Teddy Roosevelt in 1872, guests can engage in enlightening conversations about how hunting along Yellowstone’s perimeter affects the ecosystem inside the park, and why competing political interests threaten the park’s apex predators even to this day.

Beauty & Essex Photography: Warren Jagger

5 SCOUT FOR SLOTHS ON HORSEBACK

With its neon-billed toucans, jungle-fringed rivers, mist-cloaked cloud forests and towering volcanoes, Costa Rica is like something out of a child’s imagination. Encounter geothermal phenomena and extraordinary tropical wildlife in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Join scientists and conservationists at ecological research centers for some interactive exploration of the country’s rain forest ecosystem and discover how cacao beans are transformed into tasty treats with chocolate-making lessons. Soar above the forest canopy on a zip line, search for sloths while on horseback, brave a nighttime bat walk at the 850-acre Tirimbina Rainforest Center and take in the views at the Arenal Observatory Lodge, adjacent to the country’s most famous volcano.

Beauty & Essex Photography: Warren Jagger

3 JOURNEY TO PERU'S 6 DOG SLED ACROSS LOST INCAN EMPIRE

Immerse your family in the emerald-colored jungles and incredible ancient ruins of the Peruvian Andes. Witness amazing feats of centuries-old civil and hydraulic engineering and learn about Incan astronomy and architecture while exploring the Sacred Valley between Cusco and Machu Picchu. Meet with local Quechua people in Pisac and learn about advocacy conservation projects from the students of Tikapata School. Stay in private stone casitas along the Urubamba River, and experience 15th-century life in Machu Picchu with tales from your private Peruvian guide. Later, compare ancient civilizations with natural Amazonian marvels in the world’s largest tropical forest basin, where kids will take riverboat tours in search of pink river dolphins, or go ashore to scout for the scarlet and green-winged macaws, howler monkeys and leaf-cutter ants that call the Amazon home.

THE ARCTIC TUNDRA

No time for a summer excursion? Surprise the kids with a mid-term getaway to the planet’s “living laboratory” when it comes to climate change in the North. The Arctic tundra around Churchill, Manitoba is one of nature’s last great frontiers—for now. Learn about its delicate ecosystem and the impact of a warming world, where naturalist Expedition Leaders lead a family-focused adventure that’s all about pairing environmental awe with conservation awareness. Helicopter over frozen Hudson Bay in search of polar bears, race through the boreal forest on an authentic sled dog ride, and climb aboard Nat Hab’s special Polar Rover, a monster-sized truck specially designed for up-close wildlife observation—look for caribou and Arctic fox. In evenings, take in the stunning night sky—and if you’re lucky, the northern lights.

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Shenandoah Surprise

By Kelly Magyarics, DWS

A tranquil inn, creative cuisine and world-class wines await in this region that’s a pleasant drive from Washington, D.C. Get away for a weekend (or longer) in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley.

Retreating to a bed and breakfast in the country may in itself bring on a sense of calm inner peace, but The Inn at Vaucluse Spring (vauclusespring.com) takes it one step further. Located in Stephens City about a twenty-minute drive from Winchester and situated on a property bearing its namesake spring, the inn is also a place where you can attend morning mindfulness classes and occasional weekend-long mindfulness programs. Co-owner Tiffany Niide (who owns and operates the inn with her husband Derrick), is a former physician who’s practiced mindfulness in her personal life for years; a few years ago she hung up her stethoscope, the two moved from Hawaii to Virginia and the former doctor now focuses on giving guests a relaxing stay and (if they choose) a little stress relief. Its Manor House was built in 1785 by a Revolutionary War captain, and painstakingly restored in 1997. Today the house has two dining rooms, two sitting rooms, a fireplace and a porch with rocking chairs that are just begging for you to kick back with at the end of the day with a companion, a cheese plate and a bottle of wine. If you

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are feeling social, book one of the six rooms in that Manor House (the Jones Room has a queen-sized four-poster bed, two remote-controlled gas fireplaces and two-person Jacuzzi-tub shower, while the Strother Room has morning sunrise views.) Need a little more privacy? The rustic chic Cabin by the Pond is a converted tobacco barn with antique pine construction and exposed log walls and beams, the Mill House Studio is situated near the spring and the spacious Gallery overlooks the pool.

Mornings here begin with coffee or tea and a three-course breakfast prepared by Derrick; gingerbread scones or lemon-raspberry coffin cake might be followed by seasonal fruit topped with garden mint and an egg roulade filled with corn and basil and topped with yellow tomato coulis, or a fluffy rolled omelet with crispy prosciutto.

Wineries dot this entire region, which will definitely put you in the mood to swirl, sniff and sip, so on the drive to the inn stop at Linden Vineyards (lindenvineyards.com) in Linden. Owner and winemaker Jim Law is a legend in the Virginia wine industry and his offerings are unbelievably well-made. Taste through his portfolio including mineraldriven, ageworthy, complex yet fresh Hardscrabble Chardonnay and his refined Rosé, a blend of several Bordeaux grapes. In Upperville, Slater

Run Vineyards (slaterrun.com) has a brand new facility with a handsome tasting room and lots of outdoor space. Winemaker Katell Griaud hails from Southwest France and is able to lend French restraint to showy New World grapes. The winery’s entire lineup is memorable, especially two semi-sparklers made in the pét-nat style and a cabernet franc tinged with red plum and strawberry.

Continue piquing your palate at the intimate, low lit Crush Wine Bar (thecrushwinebar.com) in Winchester, where you can sink into a plush sofa and peruse a wine list which runs 110 options deep and is presented on an iPad that categorizes them several different ways. (Trust us, it’s incredibly addictive to browse.) General manager Tom Donegan has a list of readymade flights of four one-ounce pours to whet your whistle like red blends and sparkling wines; if you are feeling more confident about what you want, order a DIY flight (yes, there are Virginia wines on the menu). All pours are meant to work

with shareable small plates like seasoned sauteed mushrooms, roasted bone marrow, candied Pacific Northwest salmon and foie gras toast.

For a nightcap, pop into Half Note Bar at the George Washington Grand Hotel in downtown Winchester for a Grapefruit Martini, Sazerac or just a few fingers of Bourbon.

On Friday and Saturday nights you may want to linger longer as there is live music.

And for some retail therapy, that area abounds with cute shops and boutiques. Shop at Abija Blue for global artisan wares, Blue Plate Books for out of print titles, Flavor Pourfection for flavored olive oils and vinegars and Simply Charming for handbags and accessories. The town also has a two-block long pedestrian mall.

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Escape by River:

From New York to Michigan, These 3 Water Inspired Getaways Offer Something Different

By Maria Coder

KAYAK TO AN ABANDONED CASTLE EXPERIENCE Guests at the Caldwell House Bed and Breakfast in Salisbury Mills, New York, can now kayak around Pollepel Island and catch an up close view of Bannerman’s Castle this summer. The bed and breakfast is offering a kayak getaway, in connection with Storm King Adventure Tours. The “castle” was built in the early1900s and used to store an inventory of surplus military equipment.

The kayak experience includes: • 2-nights stay at the Caldwell House Bed and Breakfast • Admission for two to the 3-hour kayak tour to Pollepel Island • Complimentary three course gourmet breakfasts • Complimentary parking and WiFi This package is subject to availability between now and October 6, 2019 and is weather dependent. The kayak tour lasts 3 hours and costs $70 per person. Advance reservations required.

The Caldwell House Bed and Breakfast is a multi-award winning member of the prestigious Select Registry and Diamond Collection

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groups of Inns. The B&B is one of the top 25 bed and breakfasts across the country, according to the most recent yearly list by BedandBreakfast.com. It also was recently inducted into TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame for earning a Certificate of Excellence for five consecutive years. Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley– close to the United States Military Academy at West Point, the Storm King Arts Center, Brotherhood Winery (and many of the Shawangunk Wine Trail Wineries), and the Woodbury Premium Outlet Mall. Some of the Hudson Valley’s most beautiful hiking/biking trails are within easy driving distance. Built in 1802, this historic inn is full of many original features, antiques and original paintings, as well as modern amenities. Each guest room includes its own private full bath (several with Jacuzzi tub for two), smart TVs with Netflix/Hulu, free Wi-Fi Internet access, individual room temperature controls, and more. Many of the rooms have gas fireplaces.

STAND UP PADDLE BOARD EXPERIENCE Exercise meets date “night” on the new Stand Up Paddle Board getaway offers at The Hotel Saugatuck in Saugatuck, Michigan. It’s often said that couples that play together, stay together.

Now couples can stay two nights and play amid a glorious sunrise (or daybreak) along the breathtaking Kalamazoo River. You’ll want to pack your bathing suit and your sense of adventure as the big outdoors awaits.

The Stand Up Paddle Board experience includes: • 2-night stay at The Hotel Saugatuck • 2-hour Stand Up Paddle Board rentals for two people • Complimentary next-day breakfast-in-bed • Complimentary Wireless Internet • Complimentary parking at Huron House The Stand Up Paddle Board getaway starts at $748 plus tax; costs vary by room and length of stay; package available July through August, though is subject to weather and availability.

Advance reservations required.

The Hotel Saugatuck is an 18-room luxury bed and breakfast with stunning views of Lake Kalamazoo, offering modern amenities, mere blocks from the vintage reminiscent small-town of Saugatuck and minutes from Douglas. Built in 1865, The Hotel Saugatuck, formerly the Twin Gables Inn, is the only original mill in the area still standing from the busy lumbering era. It is now comprised of a dozen rooms in the historic hotel and three duplex cottages, each with two guestrooms.

All rooms feature king sized beds, private bathrooms, Jason Hydrotherapy Tubs with Micro-silk Technology, in-room breakfast, in-room dessert, fireplaces, and individual climate control.

KAYAK FOR TWO EXPERIENCE Sometimes the quickest way for couples to get a new rhythm together is to try a new activity.

This summer, the Huron House Bed and Breakfast in Oscoda, Michigan, is offering guests the opportunity to reconnect along a romantic tandem kayak ride along the beautiful AuSable River. The tandem kayak experience is self-guided and spans 2-hours, leaving couples plenty of time to talk, laugh, and take in the scenery. Tandem kayaks (or double kayaks) are designed like small boats and fit two people who get to co-paddle. The person seated in the back generally mimics the person in the front – making the kayaks a great exercise in teamwork and communication.

TANDEM KAYAK EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: • 2-night stay at the Huron House Bed and Breakfast • 2-hour tandem kayak rental • Complimentary next-day breakfast-in-bed • Complimentary Wireless Internet • Complimentary parking at Huron House Located on the beach of Lake Huron between Tawas and Oscoda, the Huron House is an award-winning 14 room luxury Bed and Breakfast lakefront destination with stunning Lake Huron views and direct beach access.

Huron House features King beds, private decks, fireplaces, personal hot tubs and Jacuzzi tubs, and daily breakfast delivered to guestrooms. Privacy and individual attention define the Huron House experience.

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Crusing

THE CENTRAL COAST

When visiting California, people tend to choose the three big cities, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego but there are so many amazing places that can get forgotten.

Recently, I decided we should take a family trip up to the Central Coast and tour all of the exciting destinations and activities it has to offer. Just a 3.5-hour comfortable drive from Orange County our first stop landed us in Pismo Beach. This quaint beach town offers beautiful sand dunes and a sand buggy ride in the dunes is certainly a must. We found a company Sunbuggy Fun Rentals that rents everything from quads, RZR’s, desert racers, dune buggies and more.

By Peggy Tanous- Real Life with a Housewife Photo Courtesy of Hearst Castle CA Parks

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Photo Courtesy of Hearst Castle CA Parks

Oceano Dunes is the only California State Park where vehicles can be driven on the beach. There are roughly 5.5 miles of beach and dunes open for cruising, it can be like touring Mars with hill after hill of sand to conquer.

After a few hours of getting dirty in the sand, we continued on our journey. Our next stop through the Central Coast was to one of the areas 250 wineries, Cass Vineyards and Winery located southeast of Paso Robles. This 145- acre vineyard specializes in Rhone varietals and was among the first vineyard in California to be planted entirely in ENTAV certified French clones.

We enjoyed a delicious lunch on the veranda with beautiful oaks surrounding our table. The restaurant itself is farm to table and their variety of meats are smoked on property. The BBQ Smoked Chicken Salad was decadent and paired perfectly with their crisp white wines and worldclass reds. Cass will be opening Geneseo Bed and Breakfast Inn this coming October, offering its guests a unique place to stay and enjoy wine country right amongst the oak trees and vineyards.

Heading north we made it to our next stop in Cambria. We booked a suite at the Cambria Pines Lodge only 9 miles from our final destination of Hearst Castle. This

lodge is situated on 25 acres of world-class gardens and Monterey Pines. Each room is like your own individual cabin with a fireplace in both the living and bedroom.

There is also an outdoor heated pool and hot tub ensuring ample relaxation is always within reach. Take a stroll through the lawn areas with secluded pathways, rustic wooden benches, formal hedges and beautiful fountains.

Our final stop on this Central Coast tour was to see the most popular and spectacular monument in the area, Hearst Castle. William Randolph Hearst, best known for publishing the largest chain of newspapers in the late 19th century, began building Hearst Castle in 1919. This was his favorite childhood spot where he spent most of his summers. He hired the first licensed woman architect out of San Francisco, Julia Morgan, to design and build his hilltop castle. This collaboration lasted from 1919 until 1947. In 1958, the castle became part of the Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument. The first buildings constructed were three cottages that housed family and guests.

Then in 1922 Casa Grande was started and this became the main house for Hearst and the cottages became for guest visits only. Casa Grande contains 115 rooms on 4 floors, including 38 bedrooms, 42 bathrooms, 14 sitting rooms, 2 libraries, a billiard room, kitchen and a movie theater.

The house resembles a cathedral due to its twin towers inspired by the church of Santa Maria la Mayor in Ronda, Spain.

In total there are four major buildings, a tennis court, two pools and lush gardens.

The tennis courts sit atop the indoor Roman pool that is 81 feet long and 10 feet deep. This pool design consists of more than a million Murano glass tiles.

The outdoor pool, Neptune’s Pool, is a sight for sore eyes. Named after the Roman God of the Sea, this pool is 104 feet long and 10 feet deep. The Roman columns and various statues throughout make it truly breathtaking. Morgan designed this Mediterranean revival estate and filled it with art and antiques from Hearst’s private vast collection. He had the largest art collection ever assembled by a single individual. Today the Castle is admired daily by people fascinated with its beauty and the stories of Hearst and his famous guests.

The Central Coast of California is a land of beauty everywhere you look. From dramatic ocean views, vast sand dunes, beautiful wineries, abundance of rolling hills, sleepy beach towns with great seafood and the extraordinary Hearst Castle, it is a must see with no shortage of activities to engage in.

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10 Things to do in Cabo San Lucas T

he variety of activities in Cabo San Lucas lets each traveler personalize their vacation to make their dreams of paradise come true. While you could spend a lifetime exploring the tip of the Baja Peninsula, adding in some of these top things to do in Cabo San Lucas will show you the amazing diversity and nature of the land. Once you're here, the amount of activities in Cabo San Lucas can be overwhelming, which is why taking time to sit back and plan out your trip with these select Cabo tours will help you make the most of your next vacay.

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GET TO KNOW CABO One of the most important things to do in Los Cabos is to get to know the city. Being familiar with the city will put you at ease as you enjoy the unique activities in Cabo San Lucas and navigate your way through town. If you have any questions during your stay, the locals and staff at your resort love sharing their knowledge about Cabo with visitors.

VISIT THE ARCH The Land's End arch is the most iconic point for the city, making an excursion here one of the top things to do. The jagged rock formation rises fiercely from the water, marking the spot where the land meets the sea. It's strength and age are inspiring, so relax on the beach and enjoy the view.

WHALE WATCHING Animals' migratory patterns are one of nature's many wonders, and looking for whales from your resort balcony or a Cabo tours boat is one of the many fun things to do during the early months of the year when they travel to the warm waters to mate and give birth.

EXPLORE THE BEACHES While some of the most popular Cabo resorts are located along the sandy shores of Medano Beach, exploring nearby beaches is one of the best things to do in Los Cabos. Each beach offers special activities, like wading in shallow waters, snorkeling through tropical reefs, and relaxing in tranquil seclusion.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY In Cabo, the party doesn't stop when the sun goes down. Throughout the city, there's a variety nightlife options to suit every visitor's idea of fun things to do on a night out. Whether you know where you're going or simply head to downtown, you're sure to find plenty of parties and things to do in Los Cabos until the sun comes up.

EXPLORE THE MARINA From shopping to dining, the Cabo Marina is the place to be. As yachts from around the world come and go, you can stroll through the luxury of the marina. One of the top things to do in is shopping, and there's no better place than the malls and boutiques surrounding the marina. Some of the city's tastiest and most elegant restaurants are also located here, the perfect ending to a day of shopping and exploring.

TAKE A DESERT TOUR Some of the most thrilling Cabo tours take you out of the city and into the desert to ride camels, send sand flying on an ATV, and hike through canyons. These desert tours show you the other side of Cabo, filled with its own wonders and treasures.

SPLASH IN THE WATER One of the many fun things to do for the whole family in Cabo is to visit the water parks. Racing your kids down water slides or relaxing in the shade with your spouse are some of the best activities at the parks.

HUNT FOR TREASURE While these treasures aren't buried, shopping for souvenirs is one of the necessary activities so that you'll always have a tangible reminder of your epic vacation.

TREAT YOURSELF AT AN AWARD-WINNING SPA While these treasures aren't buried, shopping for souvenirs is one of the necessary activities so that you'll always have a tangible reminder of your epic vacation.

SAVORING SPAIN & FRANCE ON SEADREAM II By: Richard Carroll Photos: Halina Kubalski

"AN ARTIST’S DREAM, THE PASTEL, SUN-BLEACHED, TILE-ROOFED, THREE-STORY, SHUTTERED BUILDINGS WITH SHIMMERING WINDOWS THAT EMERGE LIKE ALLPERVADING EYES, ARE SNUGLY CONNECTED WALLTO-WALL..."

Slipping into the small port of Palamos, Spain on SeaDream II, a classic style yacht hosting a grand total of 62 guests, is an experience expressing the heart and spirit of small boat cruising. After a short overnight sail from Barcelona along the meandering Mediterranean coast, the cruisers have an historic Spanish town, population 18,000, all to themselves. It’s as refreshing as a huge breath of fresh sea air not to have the town swamped with 3,000-plus cruisers as often happens when the hefty mega ships call on a destination.

The historic port of Palamos reaches back to 1279 and is noted for harboring one of the last remaining fishing fleets along this section of the Mediterranean. The town is reached via stone steps leading up to panoramic views of the small boat harbor, a splendid Fishing Museum, and narrow streets just wide enough for horse and carriage. A car squeezing though on the cobble stones would seem as out of place here as someone hiking the ancient Palamos wine routes wearing Jimmy Choo heels.

The bells of the Gothic-style, 1428, Santa Maria del Mar church are ringing on this rainy morning as residents with dogs on leash are out and about, greeting the gaggle of visitors with a smile and nod.

With umbrellas flopping, they pop into La Fleca, a popular bakery for coffee, an Ensaimadas or two, a chat with friends, and perhaps later a Sunday dinner at La Menta, a Michelin Star Restaurant.

The five-day wine-themed cruise from Barcelona to Nice with winemakers aboard, frequent wine tastings, and private excursions to wineries, is an experience to embrace. SeaDream, family-owned, with two identical yachts and enough honors to fill a stateroom, calls on ports large vessels are unable to access and allows time for her passengers to enjoy the culture and cuisine of each. Long lines do not exist ashore or aboard, and in their place the Norwegian

owners have taken service and cuisine to a new level which even Queen Elizabeth of England might approve.

Hosting a maximum of 112 guests and 95 crew members, SeaDream’s cabins come with Belgian bed linens, available Thai-certified massage therapists, open bar 24-7, and gratuities included in the fare. Bon vivants will surely enjoy Executive Chef Jorg Lehmann, one of the paramount chefs afloat whose abundant talent is obvious after the first meal. Lehmann, who as a child was enamored with the bouquet of kitchen creativity, has worked for Four Seasons, Crystal Cruises and Seabourn, among others. Cooking on SeaDream, Lehmann offers an extensive menu of plant-based Vegan and Organic cuisine, the only menu of its kind on the high seas, along with spirited award-winning creations and an all-encompassing wine list to savor.

On a moody sea baring its teeth with choppy waves and swirling white caps, the yacht is unable to tender guests into Collioure, France, but quickly a sense of discovery is aroused when SeaDream sails to nearby Port Vendres harbor, accessible only by small or midsized vessels. An artist’s dream, the pastel, sun-bleached, tile-roofed, three-story, shuttered buildings with shimmering windows that emerge like all-pervading eyes, are snugly connected wall-to-wall, and make a stunning backdrop to the tall-masted sail boats, yachts, and hard-working fishing vessels that fill the harbor and underline the ancient maritime tradition of the town.

Transportation is quickly arranged from Port Vendres back to Collioure, a town only 15 miles from the Spanish border with a population of 3,079. Residents of Collioure enjoy the cultures of two countries, displaying pride and respect for the universal history they share with Barcelona and their Catalonia cousins on the other side of the border. The Mediterranean/Gothic Notre Dame Des Anges Church, 1684, has a belfry dating to the Middle Ages that was a lighthouse and an important warning tower for approaching pirates and other bad guys, while standing high above Collioure, the Fortress Miradou also built during the Middle Ages, seems lost in time.

Back on board, a Winemakers’ Dinner is hosted by personable Alfredo Candela, his wife Maria Dolores, and their family-owned, fourth generation, Barahonda Spanish Winery featuring the thickskinned black Monastrell (Mourvedre) grape. Thought to have originated in Spain, the Monastrell and other Barahonda vintages were some of the finest red wines on the voyage.

Another Winemakers’ Dinner was hosted by Patrick Leflaive from the Olivier Leflaive Winery; Patrick’s Burgundian history 81

runs back to Claude Leflaive in 1777. Both dinners were highlighted by Chef Lehmann’s resourcefulness; smiling, he said, “Everything is made on board including ice cream. The bakers work throughout the night, and I have ten guys cooking plus me with a total of 17 in the kitchen, and an incredible eight different nationalities. I realize the importance of wine pairing with cuisine, which is great fun and essential, too” The sea still snarling, SeaDream docks in Marseille’s Old Port near the Oasis of the Seas, a ship hosting some 6,000 passengers.

It seems SeaDream II could fit into one of the Oasis’ dining rooms with room to spare.

A SeaDream Yachting Land Adventure takes guests to the estate-like Chateau Gassier tucked away in the foothills of Mount Saint Victoire near Aix-en-Provence, and a tasting of Rose and white vintages that are certified organic, dry-farmed, and hand-picked. A short drive brings cruisers to tree-lined Aixen-Provence, a busy, vibrant city home to all the international fashion houses, enough restaurants to feed the French Navy, and 35,000 students with all the passion, energy, and enthusiasm of a life to live.

showcasing a gorgeous harbor along with numerous fashion houses including Hermes, Chanel, Givenchy, Dior, Louis Vuitton, in addition to some of the finest hotels in this part of France.

vibrant cuisine of Villa Belrose were a fitting farewell to France, while the bubbles in the champagne served aboard the yacht mimic the sparkle and zest of a five-day sail with SeaDream II.

An afternoon visit to the stunning 40-room Villa Belrose, a Small Luxury Hotel affiliate, on a hillside tucked amongst million dollar homes for a bite of lunch gives a peek at Saint-Tropez hospitality. Prepared by Executive Chef Pietro Volonte, a Michelin Star honoree, lunch is served on a patio with unobstructed views of Saint Tropez harbor and Sainte-Maxime. The setting and the fresh

SEADREAM Update The two twin yachts will be joined September 18, 2021 by a third vessel, the 220 passenger Innovation with all outside cabins, one-toone passenger to crew ratio, and ports of call in 49 countries on all seven continents.

Saint-Tropez, the final port of call before embarkation in Nice, opens to a world of French luxury. A collection of priceless yachts and sail boats are the central focus of a town

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The 2019

Taste of the WORLD Photograpy by Ken Alcazar

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Yet another smashing success for the fifth annual Taste of the World put on by our amazing team this past May. The event was held at Rolling Hills Country Club, LA's newest jewel in Palos Verdes.

Rolling Hills Country Club is the South Bay’s only memberowned private country club, perched upon the rolling hills of the Palos Verdes Peninsula with expansive skyline views of the Los Angeles Basin and San Gabriel Mountains. The sophisticated grand entrance welcomed guests into a decadent world of luxury from the moment they arrived, with the highlight; a greeting all the way from Scotland. Professional Bagpiper Ross Naismith set the tone for an afternoon of cultural immersion as the chefs prepared for the ultimate culinary face-off.

see the competition had grown and they had their work cut out for them if they wanted to pull off another big win.

The day started off with a bang as guests enjoyed savory beverages from Glass Vodka, Seedlip Drinks, Towne Park Brew and Peroni Nastro Azzurro as well as an around the world wine tasting with Quintessential Wines and the Boissett Collection. Essentia Water kept guests hydrated and My/Mo Mochi satisfied everyone's sweet tooth with their refreshing flavors.

With belly’s full and votes tallied the time had come to announce the winner and to many peoples delight Chef Brittany Valles from Oak Grill at Fashion Island Hotel took the title to become the 2019 Champion!

Guests were challenged to try all the delectable items and then cast their vote at the end. The decision to choose their favorite overall dish was a tough one and the crowd waited in anticipation to see if their favorite became the winner. Throughout the event lively performances were put on by Celtic Irish Dance Academy, the Liz Lira Dance Academy, Mohea Entertainment and Dance Mania which perfectly tied into the cultural theme of the event!

From Latin to Tahitian guests were up off their feet watching and enthralled during each set.

New for 2019 was the addition of an award for “Most Creative Dish” which was handpicked by the Editors and presented to Leslie O’Guinn of Passport Provisions for her Curry Caramel Corn and Chili & Cheese Stuffed Naan.

With everyone’s palates cleansed the chefs were poised and ready to showcase their talents as the lines started to form. All in all, there were over 30 dishes to sample ranging from Ahi Tacos and Ceviche At the end of the day an amazing time was had by all, the perfect to a variety of delicious Paellas! The defending champion Trojan combination of food, drink and fun.

Grill Barbecue returned again this year again with their winning dish (their infamous New Orleans style Barbecue) but as they could

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Meet the Winner As executive chef at Oak Grill, Brittany Valles oversees the seasonal menus served at breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is responsible for creating the shareable bites menu enjoyed at Aqua Lounge, a chic and vibrant night-time gathering spot.

She is a strong proponent of using locally produced ingredients and whenever possible, utilizes the whole plant or animal for her dishes, which feature bold, bright flavors.

Prior to working at Oak Grill and Aqua Lounge, she served as chef de cuisine for seven years at now-closed ink.well by Michael Voltaggio in West Hollywood, Calif. Chef Voltaggio 86

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remains a cooking and personal mentor to Valles, along with her early teacher Chef Cole Dickenson, who recognized her potential when she worked with him at Wolfgang Puck Catering at the beginning of her culinary career. Valles gained a prestigious nomination for Star Chefs’ Rising Star Chef in 2017 and was the “Sandwich Queen” in an episode on munchies on Chef ’s Night Out. She earned an Associate of Arts degree from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Los Angeles, Pasadena campus in 2010.

We sat down with this years winner to pick her brain and delve a little more into just what and who inspires her, where her culinary journey has taken her and where you can find her enjoying SoCal when she's not at work.

her farm to the table is unmatched and unique. She also shows incredible strength and work ethic.

She is a true role model for young chefs and women everywhere.

LATM: What was it like to work with Chef Voltaggio?

BV: Working with Michael was life-changing as I was exposed to the best training in both cooking and managing a restaurant. He helped develop my creative process and gave me confidence in my own voice. He was supportive, a great teacher, caring and always valued my work. I am forever grateful to Michael as I am the chef I am today because of him.

LATM: What inspires you in the kitchen and when was the exact moment you decided to become a chef?

BV: I’ve been cooking in the kitchen since a young age when my grandpa and I would make our own jams and sell them under the label GB Jam Company. I was proud of our jams and had a feeling of accomplishment when we’d finish the packaging. I always loved our family gatherings which centered around food.

Today, my family continues to inspire me, as well as cookbooks and attending farmers markets and talking to the farmers about what’s in season and learning about random ingredients.

LATM: Tell us your favorite restaurants in SoCal, where do you frequent when you are not working?

BV: I frequent Huntington Ramen and Jans in downtown Huntington Beach as I live nearby. And I enjoy Cucina Enoteca and Blue Gold.

LATM: Which destinations or journeys have inspired you on the culinary forefront?

BV: I’m inspired by other chefs and do my best to travel to certain destinations to dine in admired restaurants, including Atelier Crenn and Coi in San Francisco, Somni in LA, Meadowood in Napa and Jung Sik in New York. Each of these dining establishments have inspired me creatively and professionally.

LATM: Which celebrity chef do you follow and why?

BV: Chef Dominique Crenn because this past year she became the first female chef in America to earn three Michelin Stars and her culinary journey is so motivating. The care and cerebral thought process that goes from 87

WINNER OF MOST CREATIVE DISH

LESLIE O'GUINN, Passport Provisions

Passionate. Traveler. Chef. Entrepreneur.

About the Chef: Chef Leslie O'Guinn has combined her love for the garden, travel, and caring for others into an impressive 20-year career.

After studying abroad at the University of London and eating her way through Europe, Leslie returned to the kitchen as the executive chef of The Back Abbey in the Claremont Village. Her six year tenure produced two new restaurants and one very personal cookbook. “Easy Eats & Tipsy Treats” was the launching pad for the next chapter and her pursuit of culinary entrepreneurship. O’Guinn spent the next three years in a working mentorship by two of her idols, renowned Chefs Susan Feniger and Kajsa Alger at their Hollywood restaurants Blue Window and Mud Hen Tavern. It was in this tutelage that she cultivated a keen eye for recipe development and the ability to manage multi-faceted and aggressive special events programming.

Today, O'Guinn shares her love for vegetable-dominant meal planning to a few lucky people, including the legendary entertainer Queen Latifah, while simultaneously working special events and recipe development for Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird and Vibiana fame.

Chef O'Guinn also is the curator and founder of Passport Provisions, a line of globally inspired snacks she launched in 2018. The global flavors pay homage to Chef O’Guinn’s love for travel and highlight her favorite cities with flavors like; Munich Munch, Bourbon Street, and Camden Town Curry Caramel. Passport Provisions can currently be found in specialty shops, bars, breweries, and theaters in the greater Los Angeles area. @passportprovisions www.passportprovisions.com

BEN DIAZ

Nixo Patio Lounge About the Chef: Chef Ben Diaz is the Executive Chef of Nixo Patio Lounge at the Luxe City Center Hotel Chef Ben is a graduate of the prestigious California School of Culinary Arts and a coveted freelance chef who loves to push the boundaries of cuisine and create beautifully stunning works of art. He has been inducted into the Les Amis d’Escoffier Society, Cambridge Who’s Who of Culinary Professionals, and World Master Chefs Society.

Ben is an accomplished entrepreneur and rising star on the national culinary stage. He has appeared on major television networks, such as the Food Network’s Chef Wanted and Cutthroat Kitchen. He recently won the Cooking Channel’s Farmers Market Flip and was voted fan favorite in Culinary Fight Club’s “Blended Burger Battle.”

Ben holds six certifications, including Certified Hospitality Department Trainer and Certified Food and Beverage Executive, and he regularly works alongside the world’s top chefs as a member of the ACF Chefs de Cuisine Association of Los Angeles. Ben is currently serving a second term as the chapter’s apprenticeship chair. luxecitycenter.com

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CHEF NICHOLAS LONCAR Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills About the Chef: A native of Pennsylvania, Chef Nicholas Loncar got his start in the restaurant industry as a teenager when he assumed his first job as a short order cook at The Dobbin House Tavern, located in a pre-Civil War home in Gettysburg. After receiving his first taste of the industry, Nicholas decided to pursue cooking professionally and attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s Academy of Culinary Arts.

From there, Nicholas quickly immersed himself in numerous highvolume hotel kitchens, beginning with Palm Beach’s historical icon, The Breakers. After just over a year at the property, he relocated to California.

There, he continued his career in hotel restaurants, finessing his skills in the kitchens of highly-regarded four and five-star properties including Santa Barbara’s Four Seasons Resort, Ritz Carlton Laguna Beach, Pasadena’s Langham Hotel and Waldorf Astoria La Quinta.

After working as sous chef at both the Ritz Carlton at LA Live and Century City’s Intercontinental Hotel, Nicholas joined the team at Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills in May of 2018 as chef de cuisine. In this role, Nicholas helps oversee operations at Avec Nous, the property’s full-service restaurant as well as the lounge and pool areas, in-room dining and banquets.

In the kitchen, he merges predominantly French cooking techniques while marrying the cuisine with Spanish and Californian influences.

While remaining true to the city’s relaxed ethos, Nicholas presents guests with a French American bistro-style menu that puts a modern take on classic cuisine. Nicholas lives in Burbank with his wife of 13 years and their two children. While he appreciates the ways in which Los Angeles is a melting pot of culinary culture, he values time unwinding outside of the city which allows him the opportunity to recharge and draw new inspiration. viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

CHEF EDWARD KORAYNIE Ooey Gooey Catering About the Chef: As a young child Edward Koraynie would sit in the kitchen with his grandma watching and helping. It was these fond memories that inspired Ed to become a chef. After attending Morehouse College Ed was lost and confused, he turned to cooking to find guidance. Drawing on his warm memories of cooking with his grandma as a young child he realized cooking for people was his true passion. To follow this dream he attended culinary school in New York, NY at The French Culinary Institute.

After completing his culinary program, he started his career working at Sea Grill in Rockefeller Center followed by Quantity Meats in Midtown. After his time spent working at some of NYC’s top restaurants, he craved greater freedom to create custom recipes and menus. This is what led him to become a Private Chef. Ed worked for various celebrity clients over 7 years from coast to coast. After his time as a Private Chef, Ed wanted to explore the world of catering.

He worked from the bottom up to learn all aspects of the business so he can eventually open a catering company of his own.

In July 2018 Edward Koryanie did just that and launched Ooey Gooey Catering. The mission of Ooey Gooey Catering is to provide

fresh and flavorful menus perfectly customized for each client. Ooey Gooey’s events to date have included weddings, Private Dinner Parties, Corporate Events, and Production Catering. His vision for the company is to continue to grow while providing clients with outstanding customer service and fabulous cuisine that elevates their mood and excites their taste buds. No matter how big this company gets quality of service cannot diminish and that is his pledge to his clients and his staff. ooeygooeycatering.com 89

CHEF GUILLAUME SABBADIN La Cuillère Gourmet

About the Chef: Chef Guillaume Sabbadin is an authentic French-born chef who has always been passionate about the art of food and French Patisserie. His culinary career began more than 23 years ago at the age of 15, Sabbadin decided to earn a degree in Culinary Arts by placing himself under the direction of some of Europe’s top chefs, Dominic Toulousy at Toulouse Lautrec, where he trained in the domains of food and patisserie and later on to complete his masters studies at Lycée Professional de Blagnac, France in an intensive mentorship with one of the best chefs in France. Upon graduation, he worked as a Chef de Partie at the reanimated restaurant “ Le Jardins de L’opera hotel, Michelin** from 1995-1999, where he had the opportunity to supervise more than 100 cooks and oversee daily operations of a food and beverage department. In addition, he spearheaded the hotel’s apprenticeship program, inspiring dozens of young cooks as he helped them hone their skills and harness their creative talents. His next post was at restaurant Folie Gastronomie, Michelin ** as an Executive Sous Chef, where he collaborated with Executive Chef to create fine dining French selections, coordinate all food and beverage orders for the restaurant and catering services. At the year of 2001, Sabbadin relocated to Los Angeles, CA, in order to bring his talents and explore the new American culture.

He became the Executive chef of Figaro cafe in Los Angeles, a role which he was continuing to delight guests with his refined, contemporary French cuisine, where he quickly became an indispensable asset to the restaurant, bringing his exquisite palate and creativity to everything he touched.

His next stop was at Crustacean Beverly Hills where he had the pleasure to work alongside the Chef and Owner Helene Ann, where he learned the principles of Vietnamese French fusion cuisine. With a drive to keep growing Sabbadin chose to prove himself once again as the Executive Chef at Maggie’s Santa Barbara, where he crafted menus and set the scenes at this French- American restaurant.

Sabbadin credits his success to surrounding himself with talented people with a passion for food which helped him fine-tune his techniques. While training and experience have been important in shaping Sabbadin’s culinary talents, even more, significant is the passion he finds in the kitchen.

"Being a chef takes passion and a drive to excel," he explains. Now you’ll find him offering his full-time service, talent, and experience to his own catering company La Cuillere Gourmet. lacuilleregourmet.com

CHEF JIN HEO Roba Noodle

About the Chef: Chef Jin has over 10 years of culinary experience in the Japanese fine dining restaurants and was named one of the best chefs in America

by Best Chefs America. Working in California for his entire chef career, he has expertise in creating Asian inspired but very California style cuisine. He is keen on making each and every menu item his very own. He started his new culinary journey as owner-chef at Roba Noodle which opened in March 2019. He enjoys meeting and getting to know many customers who love his food and always pushes himself to constantly improve the quality of food and service.

Roba Noodle offers flavorful robata skewers and udon noodles dressed in a variety of housemade sauces including Beef Kombu, Miso, and Mentaiko.

Rotaba skewer options include a selection of meat, seafood and vegetables such as Prime Ribeye, Chilean Seabass, Chicken, Brussel Sprouts, and Shishito peppers. Enjoy chef inspired noodles and skewers, with high-quality ingredients and casual dining atmosphere. robanoodle.com

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CHEF COLLIN SMELSER Costero California Bar + Bistro About the Chef: Executive Chef Collin Smelser is a consummate culinary professional with more than a decade of upscale hotel dining experience who not only creates the restaurant’s seasonally changing menu yet also leads the kitchen at Costero. From the prestigious New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier, Vermont, to Executive Chef at the Lodge & Spa at Cordillera in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Chef Smelser joined Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles soon after leading the kitchen as the luxurious Chase Park Plaza in Downtown St. Louis, Missouri. Chef Smelser’s wide repertoire of cooking infuses casual fare with skillful technique and focuses on Southern Californian cuisine.

Every day he's in the kitchen, a new, stunning dish is created. marriott.com

CHEF ROGER NAVAS-BALLADARES AND PAUL A. STONE Savory Roads About the Chef: Chef Roger Navas-Balladares is a native of Leon, Nicaragua where he grew up surrounded by people who loved food. He started experimenting in the kitchen at the early age of seven. When his family moved to Los Angeles, California due to the Nicaraguan Civil War, he was introduced to a variety of international influences. With friends and neighbors from all over the world, he learned to appreciate and prepare food from all corners of the globe.

Roger is a graduate of UC Berkeley with a B.A. in Latin American studies. During his studies at Berkeley, he fell in love with Iberian cuisine and continued to expand his international repertoire. He obtained his Culinary Degree from Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena California with Top Honors. Roger is also a Flamenco aficionado, and you will always catch the sounds of a Spanish Guitar in his kitchen. Roger has appeared cooking in several TV shows in Spain and the USA. Paul A. Stone is a native of Oklahoma. He has lived extensively in the Southern and Western United States including Arizona, Florida, Tennessee, and California. His family is big on Southern American Cuisine and enjoys eating real "home style" cooking.

Paul loves Spanish, Japanese food, Mexican and good old Southern Home Cooking. He is by far infatuated with Iberico Ham and loves to discover new places around town, and is not afraid to try things at least once. Savory Roads Catering & Personal Chef Services. savoryroads.com

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CHEF KHADIJAH DIOP A Taste of Senegal

About the Chef: Brought up on the rich flavors of southern soul food cooking and having mastered the traditions of Senegalese culinary arts, owner and lead chef Khadijah Diop unites the two worlds with an assorted selection of tantalizing favorites from both regions, introducing new flavor-notes to every palate seeking to explore the vast richness of the African Diaspora.

Since 2013, A Taste of Senegal has specialized in catering unforgettably delicious cuisine traditional American Soul Food as well as traditional West African cuisine and beverages. A Taste of Senegal invites you on a journey of re-connecting and re-routing the American soul food experience to a traditional West African one. atasteofsenegal.com/ catering

EXECUTIVE CHEF JOHNNY DE VIVO Rolling Hills Country Club

About the Chef: His culinary career started at his family’s restaurant, Scaldoni’s, in St. George, Utah. After about two years he moved to Las Vegas where he worked at the Bellagio at two different restaurants, Picasso’s and Le Circe, both having received Michelin Awards. After his time there he moved to Alize on top of the Palms Casino and quickly climbed his way to Executive Sous Chef.

After relocating to Monterey he became the Executive Chef for two of Monterey County’s top restaurants, Casanova & La Bicyclette. As his kids got older, he decided to take a step back and relocated the family to the South Bay and helped to open the Rolling Hills Country Club where he works to this day. rollinghillscc.com

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EXECUTIVE CHEF AARON ROBBINS

Shade Hotel Redondo Beach / Sea Level Restaurant and Lounge About the Chef: Chef Robbins brings over 15 years of fine dining and culinary experience to Sea Level Restaurant and Lounge, located on the grounds of the Shade Hotel Redondo Beach.

Born in Santa Monica and raised in Eugene, Oregon, Aaron fell in love with the culinary arts while in high school. Upon graduation, it was the vibrant culinary scene and quintessential coastal vibe that brought him back to Los Angeles to pursue culinary arts and establish his place in the profession.

Throughout his career, Aaron has served as sous chef at celebrated California based restaurants including Parkway Grill in Pasadena and O Bar Restaurant in Orange. Most recently he served as Director of Culinary for the Culinary Lab, a Los Angeles based restaurant group that operates Hinoki & The Bird and RosalinĂŠ. He has worked with distinguished chefs such as Greg Hozinsky and David Tarran and has developed his signature style of balancing unique flavor profiles, textures, and artistic plating presentations. His preference for simple and robust flavors infused with an Asian influence that will elevate the menu concept of California Coastal Cuisine with a twist at Sea Level Restaurant and Lounge.

When Aaron is not developing culinary creations in the kitchen, he can be found spending time with his wife and young daughter or expressing his creative abilities in the art of sculpting. As a lover of everything related to the ocean, including the best in fresh and quality seafood, Aaron also raises live coral.

In his role as Executive Chef at Sea Level Restaurant and Lounge at Shade Redondo Beach, his vision is to execute a California Coastal Cuisine menu that is aligned with the luxury and contemporary style of the Shade brand and aims to provide guests a memorable and elevated culinary experience. rb.shadehotel.com/dine

CHEF LUIS VERGARA Edible360.com About the Chef: Passion to create is the motor and success of his company Edible360 which was established in 2010.

For 20 years Chef Luis and his team have been dedicated to creating innovative, contemporary and visually attractive ways to exhibit Desserts, Fruit, Appetizers, Ice Sculptures and more. edible360.com

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PRABEEN PRATHAPAN Tanner's Restaurant at Pasea Hotel & Spa

About the Chef: Chef Prathapan brings over 15 years of culinary creativity and experience in the luxury hospitality industry to Paséa Hotel and & Spa. Chef Prathapan will not only manage the food and beverage operations across the Huntington Beach resort but will also lead the culinary teams from each of the property’s concepts, including Tanner’s Restaurant and Blend Café.

Prior to joining Paséa’s culinary team, Chef Prathapan served as the executive sous chef at the Montage Laguna Beach, a Forbes Five-Star hotel, where he was responsible for overseeing daily culinary operations. Prathapan also honed his craft as chef de cuisine at the Mandarin Oriental in Las Vegas, where he oversaw its on-property restaurant MOzen Bistro and in-room dining. There, he was challenged with curating inventive experiences to acquire high volume business from residential guests.

Having spent his early years in Mumbai, India, Prathapan earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Hotel and Hospitality Administration in 2004 from the Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology in Trivandrum. This led him to gain experience across the Taj Hotels portfolio, such as management trainee at the Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi and sous chef at the Taj Fisherman’s Cove in Chennai, India. While in India, he was able to master an abundance of regional cuisines, which prepared him for the opening of Taj Boston. His simple, yet well-executed techniques incorporate fresh, seasonal, local and sustainable ingredients, resulting in a clean flavor profile. Prathapan has a passion not just for the culinary aspect but also nutrition and has been researching its impact on the human body. tannershb.com

CHEF KELVIN BELLAMY Good Choice Catering

About the Chef: As he continues to grow his Celebrity Clients as a Personal Chef and Catering Company Kelvin is also working to finish the first of a series of Cook Books.

Chef Kelvin is also developing his own line of Signature Sauces to enable his dedicated fans to bring his style of Caribbean American Fusion and it’s tasty flavors into their homes.

Competing in a variety of competitions in the world of culinary arts, his very first job in the food world started before he even graduated high school. As he continued to sharpen his skills he worked for various prestigious companies where he was able to cook for some of the biggest events and most well-known celebrities in the world.

Now having his own company he doesn’t plan on slowing down. From catering for all occasions to teaching those who want to cook like the professionals do, he is one top chef to watch. goodchoicecatering.com

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PITMASTER PORTIA MITCHELL Trojan Grill Barbecue

About the Chef: Pitmaster Portia is a former Women's basketball player at the University of Southern California, and in high school, the nationally ranked Narbonne Gauchos.

She has always had a great love for food since an early age.

Raised in a family of women, Portia grew up watching and learning traditional southern cooking from her aunts, mother, and sisters in the kitchen. She developed this into her own style and created some pretty delicious smoked meats.

Trojan Grill BBQ was the last two years defending Taste of the World Champions and for very good reason. Their variety of succulent smoked meats are so incredibly tasting it is a challenge to even put it into words. Portia and her team of BBQ Pittmasters put 100% passion and dedication to their trade each and every time an order is placed! trojangrillbarbecue.com

KARLA NAVARROACOSTA LA Farm Girl Catering About the Chef: Chef and party planner Karla runs her own backyard farm in Frogtown with her many varieties of chickens, ducks and animals. A former chef at LA favorite, Porto's Bakery, Karla picks up all kinds of techniques (like her Korean potato salad soaking methods and Middle Eastern barbecuing), cooking organically, no recipes despite her cooking school training. Karla and Doan began working together when they collaborated on Karla's wedding at their favorite avocado farm. Karla specializes in her gorgeous grazing tables. lafarmgirlcatering.com

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CHEF MARK SCHARAGA

Nyotaimori Experience About the Chef: Started in January 2005, by Chef MJ Scharaga, the Nyotaimori Experience began offering naked sushi parties that created an interest in the service beyond a single city.

Today we offer nyotaimori aka naked sushi service to most major cities (some smaller ones) have over 400 events in 22 different states worked with ABCTV, Vice.com, Buzzfeed, Playboy and many other organizations. What truly sets us apart is our skill to create amazing world class sushi using only the finest quality ingredients. Chef Scharaga has been featured for the art of nyotaimori and also received recognition for his culinary talent over the years as a chef.

Today, when people truly want the food for their events to standout, the Nyotaimori Experience, is the catering service to turn to. The goal is nothing less than exceptional. Special event services include Bachelor Party, Bachelorette Party, Oscars Party, Grammy Award Party, Emmy Award Party, Cast Party, VIP Event, Wrap Party, Birthday, Anniversary, Yacht Party, and anything else where you truly want to leave an amazing impression on your guests. nyotaimoriexperience.com

CHEF MARIA GOMEZ

A Taste of Peru About the Chef: A Taste of Peru Baking & Catering was founded in 1996 with the vision of bringing the flavor, authenticity and Peruvian Culture to the USA. Take a trip with us to Peru. Come and learn about the food, culture and country. Let us share our love of Peruvian Food and Culture with you. atperu.org

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BEVERAGE PARTNERS CELEBRITY CRUISES

GLASS VODKA

BOISSETT COLLECTION

PERONI NASTRO AZZURRO

SEEDLIP DRINKS

QUINTESSENTIAL WINES

ESSENTIA WATER

TOWNE PARK BREW

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The Entertainment: BAGPIPER, ROSS NAISMITH

MOHEA ENTERTAINMENT

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CELTIC IRISH DANCE ACADEMY

DANCE MANIA ENTERTAINMENT

LIZ LIRA DANCE ACADEMY

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KENDRA WILKINSON

By Jennifer Dunn Photography by Remo Fioroni

THE QUEEN OF FUN IS BACK TO RECLAIM HER CROWN From growing up in San Diego to current resident of Los Angeles County, this reality star is getting ready to jump back in the lime light. When she’s not making everyone in the room laugh you can find her hiking the San Fernando Valley and trying different workouts with friends. She is all about finding balance and reinventing herself, opening up her mind and letting the universe send her in the right direction.

She loves to travel with her kids and jumps at the opportunity to show them new destinations whenever possible!

Recently we sat down with the LA native at the Four Seasons Westlake to pick her brain on all her crazy travel experiences, including an unforgettable trip to China and Thailand with her son that became one of the best trips she has ever been on.

For a sneak peek behind the scenes and to hear all about her trip to Thailand visit latravelmagazine.com.

HER LOOK:

Styled by: Danielle Tavia @danielletavia Hair Stylist: Tiffany Loe @christianmsalon MUA: Sheila Harris @blondt0urage Top: Blanka the Label Skirt: Anee Shoes: Just Fab Shot on location at the Four Seasons Westlake

"Being a public person, it’s important for me to find peace and have a level of privacy so being in my home in my own bed, cooking my own food and drinking my favorite wine is my perfect place to get away from it all."

-Kendra Wilkinson

HER LOOK:

Styled by: Danielle Tavia @danielletavia Hair Stylist: Tiffany Loe @christianmsalon MUA: Sheila Harris @blondt0urage Top: DanielleTavia Pants: Sylwia Romaniuck Couture Shoes: Shoe Dazzle

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"Right now my main focus in my career is learning. I LOVE being on tv and the entertainment world but opening my mind to new things is where I’m at right now. Just having fun exploring the new right now."

-Kendra Wilkinson

HER LOOK:

Styled by: Danielle Tavia @danielletavia Hair Stylist: Tiffany Loe @christianmsalon MUA: Sheila Harris @blondt0urage Pant Suit: The Trend Haus Shoes: Shoe Dazzle

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"Before my grandma passed away one of the last things she said was she regretted not going to Australia when she had the chance. If I had the chance I’d go with her today."

-Kendra Wilkinson

HER LOOK:

Styled by: Danielle Tavia @danielletavia Hair Stylist: Tiffany Loe @christianmsalon MUA: Sheila Harris @blondt0urage Dress: Sylwia Romaniuck Shoes: Shoe Dazzle Hair Pins: Jewel By Badgely Mischka

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LIZ LIRA DANCE ACADEMY

Liz Lira Dance Academy promotes the institution of Latin Dance worldwide while teaching a bolder, more passionate level of expression through music. The Liz Lira Dance Academy entity strives to further the awareness of Salsa and Latin culture. LLDA is one of the world's most unique dance companies focusing on the Liz Lira Method of dance.

Liz Lira Dance Academy opens its door to dancers with a passion for the art. The Academy provides dancers who have never trained or performed with the opportunity to be part of a company, work with elite professionals, travel, compete, and be part of a unique experience.

T: (818) 929-5472 LIZLIRA.COM

ROBIN MCGRAW

An Indisputable Achiever By: Richard Carroll

With a radiant passion for life, and enough bubbling energy to share with all of Southern California, Robin McGraw, her green eyes shining, discusses her life in detail, no holds barred, pretension a mysterious unknown, her memories of distasteful and desirable times alike placed on the table to be shared. These memories convey an enormous, ongoing love for Georgia, her late mother, who was a powerful motivation for her two New York Times best selling books. The first, Inside My Heart: Choosing to Live with Passion and Purpose, captures the essence of this intriguing and multi-layered woman with a heart the size of a sparkling star.

Her booming Revelation skin care headquarters in West Hollywood looks more like a flamboyant art gallery, meticulously decorated by Robin, with a gleaming wall display that reads, “There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise.”

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Married in 1976 to television personality Phil McGraw known as Dr. Phil, and with two high-achieving sons, Robin, 67, has moved from the bottom rung in life, growing up in near poverty and experiencing domestic violence first hand, to a far higher place where she uses her now powerful voice to reach out to the world.

With eyes blazing and her words and thoughts tumbling over one another in an articulate sprint, she passionately explained, “My father was a pitiful alcoholic and gambler, gambling away money we didn’t have, and I was always wondering each night if and when he was going to come home. It was a very uncertain life in all aspects. But the smile on my mother’s face, always honest and sincere, made me feel that everything was going to be okay.

She cared for everyone but herself and with five children to care for, a non-functioning and useless alcoholic husband, she passed at

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age 58 with undiagnosed heart disease. She had never been to the doctor. She was 5’ 3” but, to me, ten feet tall.”

In 2013 Robin launched her charitable foundation, “When Georgia Smiled” to help victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault live healthy, safe, and joy-filled lives. In 2016, “When Georgia Smiled” joined hands with the Dr. Phil Foundation and the two formed a powerful non-profit force for good. Robin’s Georgia Revelation Line along with other products has a motivational quote under each lid, “It’s never too late to put yourself first.”

“Take care of yourself so you can take care of those you love.”

“My life is not just skin care,” she said, “I have a platform here. I see myself as a full-time advocate for women working down every aisle to put themselves first. I can speak to women about sexual assault and domestic violence,

which can be verbal, too, and unnoticed to many, and it’s not their fault. ‘Who will believe what happened to me?’ and then the overpowering feeling of guilt caused by an ugly assault. It can be hidden and it’s everywhere on all levels of economic life. Women have an intuition; just listen to it. My mother told me, ‘You’re going to have the life you deserve.’ That applies to everyone. If you take care of yourself first, you can move through life in a helpful and giving way.”

Robin stands solidly behind her values and is an active philanthropist, humanitarian, and avid public speaker featured numerous times on the Oprah Winfrey show, The Doctors, Entertainment Tonight, The Today Show, Dr. Phil, among a host of others. She is also the National Celebrity Spokesperson for the Girl Scouts of the USA. Her awards, which she didn’t bother to mention, could cover a large wall, floor to ceiling, but she is very proud of her life saving “GO” button.

“If someone feels they’re in a dangerous abusive situation,” she said, talking enthusiastically with her hands, “they can press the “GO” button on their phone which will record the conversation, and transmit a message to safe contacts and 911, too, that someone needs assistance.

It’s an incredible tool and absolutely can save lives.” Her “GO” button can be found in the ASPIRE News app, both in English and Spanish, and was designed to help those involved in domestic abuse to find shelters. Much to Robin’s credit the app, with more than a half million downloads and counting, was recognized by the National Health Collaborative on Violence and Abuse as one of the paramount two apps most successful in the struggle to end domestic violence.

Traveling Yacht Style “It all started with a gift from Oprah,” she smiled, “A Christmas note read ‘My gift to you. Pick any yacht for a 10-day sail.’ I was shocked! I had never been on a private yacht. I’m not a water person, don’t love the water, don’t get in the sun, not a swimmer,” and broadly smiling, “a tendency to get seasick. It was an incredible 10day Mediterranean cruise! I loved every minute and it was the beginning of our yearly family yacht travel schedule.”

For some 25 years Robin, husband Phil, and extended family, have been sailing the Mediterranean yacht-style, though last year it was just the two of them. They arrange diverse itineraries and ports of call depending upon their flight schedule, and work with various Chefs, and a Captain, occasionally repeating favored destinations such as Monaco, Paris, Saint Tropez and others. Robin remarked that she works with the Chef organizing the daily menu selections, and that life during their time at sea is a dream.

“The gift was special,” Robin explained. “Our friendship extends back to Phillip’s first appearance on Oprah’s show, but people fail to realize what a fine person Oprah is. Oprah has a big heart and does so much good for so many people in need. Much of her good work quietly happens and goes unnoticed. She is honest and true and the best friend anyone could ever have. I was blessed to meet her and honored to be invited on her show.”

Enormous enthusiasm shining along with a timeless smile, Robin McGraw, wife, mother, grandmother, and compassionate spirit remarked, “I was determined to never marry an alcoholic or gambler, and I didn’t.” Hand in hand with Phil, Robin is moving forward and upward with absolute zest, and with another sail on the Mediterranean on the horizon.

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SouthAmerica.travel, the ultimate travel planning service specializing in trips to South America, is encouraging travelers to unplug and digitally detox from the stresses at work and set out to explore "a whole new world." According to a 2018 Nielsen study, adults in the US spend more than 11-hours each day looking at their phones, computer screens or a TV rather than reading a book or going for a walk. While glued to a screen, the world feels as if it disappears and people tend to lose focus and productivity, while stress and anxiety levels increase.

Now travelers can escape these everyday life stresses and set out to discover the Amazon Rainforest to unplug. From visiting a monkey jungle and alligator spotting to piranha fishing, examples of select handcrafted tours of the Amazon where travelers can disconnect include:

Tucano Amazon Cruise Tour:

Rio, Ouro Preto and Brazil Amazon Tour:

As featured in National Geographic Traveler Magazine, the Tucano Amazon Cruise is a great way for travelers to fully explore lesser-known parts of the Amazon Rainforest and River. In addition to exploration, the Tucano Amazon Cruise offers guests a chance to fully unplug due to its remote location, far away from any cell-phone tower. The motor yacht will stop at one of the world's largest river island systems and a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, the Anavilhanas Archipelago. While here, guests will partake in a nocturnal safari to spot Caymans (the Amazon's crocodiles), observe the dark waters of Igapó and go on a mid-morning walk in the Terra Firme rainforest. From there, travelers will make their way to the Xiborena Peninsula and eventually arrive to the "Encontro das Aguas," which is where two of the world's largest rivers, Rio Negro and Amazon River, meet.

Upon arrival in Manaus, travelers will be escorted by boat along the Rio Negro – the largest left tributary of the Amazon River and the largest blackwater river in the world – to their hotel, Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge. Here, travelers are in for a treat as guests have a wide selection of "unplugging' options to choose from, including a guided nature walk through the jungle, a swim with river dolphins, fishing, canoeing, treeclimbing, a visit to the neighboring caboclo villages – assembly of a few houses inhabited by Caboclos, who are detribalized Amerindians mixed with people of European ancestry - as well as a boat ride to spot caiman and small alligators. Alongside travel to the Brazilian Amazon, guests will have a chance to explore the historical downtown of Rio de Janeiro and the colonial town of Ouro Preto.

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Brazil Amazon & Salvador Bahia Tour: During the Amazon Rainforest experience, lodgers will stay overnight at the Juma Amazon Lodge – accessible by boat, the lodge is located on the Rio Juma and features 19 intimate bungalows built on stilts, resting at treetop level – where guests will participate in activities such as hiking and picnicking in the jungle, Caiman spotting, interacting with pink dolphins, bird watching, and piranha fishing, among other fun experiences. In addition to staying in the Amazon, guests will visit other cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Salvador da Bahia and its old historic center, Pelourinho.

Machu Picchu & The Amazon Jungle Tour: The Peruvian Amazon will be explored by guests while they stay at Posada Amazonas in the Peruvian Amazon. Here, guests will wake up, have breakfast and visit a parrot clay lick where they will interact with dozens of red and green macaws, large parrots and yellow-crowned Amazons. Afterward travelers will head to a small parakeet clay lick where they will witness Blue Headed and Orange-Cheeked Parrots, Cobalt-winged parakeets and the rare Rock Parakeet. Along with a visit to the Peruvian Amazon, guests will also explore Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

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The Hottest Wellness Destinations to Visit This Season The world is moving at lightning fast speed and keeping up doesn't generally include taking a moment to breathe. It is no surprise wellness tourism is on the rise and this season people are once again turning to well-being destinations for a chance to escape, unplug, reset and start anew. Here are the top 4 health and wellness destinations to ensure you return from your next vacay feeling renewed and ready to take on the world:

Koh Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, lies in the Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus. It's known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and dense, mountainous rainforest, plus luxury resorts and posh spas. The island has everything one could need for a wellness getaway including healthy restaurants, yoga studios, wellness retreats, a wide variety of spas, in-villa massages, and even conservation projects so you can dive in and give back to the local community during the trip.

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Kauai, Hawaii The unique wellness services on the island of Kauai include spa resorts, health clubs, day-spas and more all paired perfectly with serene surroundings.

Here you will find rejuvenating treatments that are uniquely Hawaiian and a local culture that is laid back and encourages you to slow down and relax.

Succumb to the rhythmic strokes of a lomilomi massage, add heated pohaku (stones) to relieve sore muscles or renew your skin with a facial using local ingredients to stimulate and increase circulation.

Pamper yourself with wraps, scrubs and hydrotherapy in an unforgettable tropical setting and while away the days from sunrise to sunset.

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india Discover true wellness at some of India’s finest health and wellness retreats where you can relax, rejuvenate, detox and energize the body, mind and soul. Using the time-tested principles of Ayurveda and Yoga a visit will provide you with much relief from your hectic, mundane lifestyle and restore your inner balance.

By combining traditional herbal massages, saatvic meals, Yoga and Pranayama, a wellness holiday can be a life changing experience for many. So whether you are looking for an inner cleanse or destress program or simply to practice Yoga in serene surroundings some of the best health and wellness retreats take place in cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Goa, Bangalore and more cities across India. Wellness and medical tourism in India is just not limited to these cities. The country has a history in the field of wellness and health as it is home to the world’s two oldest, safest, and most effective health and wellness traditions, Ayurveda and Yoga. There are numbers of destinations in India that are important for wellness tourism for both domestic as well as international tourists and they are indeed some of the finest in the country.

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sedona, az Sedona is a true oasis, a wellness-seeker's paradise in the middle of the Arizona desert, where travelers will find resorts and spas, canyons and red rock formations. Bell Rock and Oak Creek Canyon are great hiking spots, and the dramatic architecture of the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a religious experience in itself. In Arizona’s enticingly named Valley of the Sun, Sedona has a clutch of high-end destination spas that draw travelers from both coasts. Sedona is a magical destination, from enchanting Red Rocks to mystical vortexes, adrenaline-pumping off-road adventures to peaceful backcountry hikes, it truly has something for everyone.

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SoCal SPACATIONS

MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH The perfect setting for a girlfriends getaway, couples retreat or "it's all about me" time, Montage Laguna Beach. For a worldclass spa day the resort welcomes you with a soothing scent upon entering the lobby while relaxing surroundings provide the perfect environment to reconnect with your significant other or yourself. The backdrop of the gorgeous summer sunset accentuates the 20,000 square foot full-service spa with exclusive treatments, award-winning products and comprehensive fitness offerings.

The resort recently introduced a new spa menu which highlights three facials from Swiss-produced Valmont, known for its scientific approach to beauty. Also, on the new menu are HydraFacial and Sapphire Oxylight Facial. The 90-minute HydraFacial is a refining treatment that thoroughly cleanses and removes dead skin via Hydra-dermabrasion and a gentle peel while extracting impurities and infusing intensive antioxidants and hydration. Your skin will leave glowing with no discomfort or downtime.

After a day at Spa Montage you will want to spend more time and continue to bask in relaxation. A recent renovation is a great excuse to turn a spa day in to a spacation. The guestrooms and suites have all been renewed, from the furnishings to the color palate, and thoughtfully curated to meld modern and traditional elements to combine unmatched luxury with Southern California beach style. The design extends to the bathroom with polished marble floors, glistening chrome accents and elegant new vanities. New high-tech room amenities include streamingloaded 55" and 65" Samsung 4K televisions to name a few.

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OCEAN CREST SPA AT CAPE REY Discover your intentions as you surrender to a relaxing Red Algae Body Scrub which was designed specially for Visit Carlsbad’s Colors of Carlsbad campaign. For this campaign, Visit Carlsbad, partnered with Pantone Color Institute and Fohr, to create the 2019 Colors of Travel Study, which identified trending colors used in inspirational travel photos across social media. The study revealed one of this year’s trending Colors of Travel to be PANTONE 16-1522 Rose Dawn, a dusted pink hue which is the inspiration behind the Red Algae Body Scrub. The treatment’s earthy pink color comes from the active blend of thyme, juniper, and tea tree. This treatment is gently crafted to remove impurities, minimize enlarged pores and create a better complexion.

Benefits of the treatment include removal of impurities and minimization of enlarged pores, creating a visibly refined complexion. Combining gentle massage techniques with a light scrub this treatment is sure to leave you in a state of bliss. Post treatment sit back and take in the stillness and sink into a deeper state of relaxation with every passing minute.

Once your treatment has ended, make your way to the outdoor pool or steam room. Opt for a cabana by the pool to continue relaxing while you sip on a glass of coconut water or order a light lunch from Chandler's Restaurant.

There is something for everyone with items ranging from salads to sandwiches, desserts and more.

Cape Rey is a destination all in itself.

When you take a daycation or staycation here, be prepared for the property to bring you back to life utilizing the regenerative powers of water, warmth and personalized service.

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Style Guide We've got a few tips on how to make vacation (or even daycation) styling easy.

LA VIE BOHEME YOGA YOGA MATS Often times after summer, we fall out of the fitness mentality and into the warm comforts of autumnal bliss. We forget to move, and the idea of body awareness, movement and getting into shape goes out the window!Let La Vie Boheme Yoga keep you motivated and stylish. The fashionable fitness line will be sure to turn heads in and out of class! The Fiji Yoga Mat represents "Earth" as part of the Elements Collection; named after the beautiful greenery of tropical Fiji. Featuring different foliage designs of island plants brings a deep relaxing appeal of island life to you on your mat. $80 laviebohemeyoga.com

EPARÉ DOUBLE WALL CHAMPAGNE GLASS A design that is practical and visually appealing makes this an exciting product for any home, restaurant or café. This champagne glass stylishly eliminates condensation and creates a rounded rim for comfortable drinking. Crafted from strong borosilicate, makes these glasses thinner, lighter, scratch and break resistant, as well as a dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe. $17.95 epare.com

CAPRESSO ICED TEA MAKER Custom brew a refreshing pitcher of iced tea at the touch of a button with the Capresso Iced Tea Maker. Add your favorite loose tea or tea bags to the reusable filter.

Removable water tank can be filled directly at the sink for convenience.

Fill the glass pitcher with ice to the ice level marking on the pitcher prior to brewing. You can also add fresh or frozen fruit before or after brewing for a refreshing tea blend. Adjust the brew strength with the slide on the front of the machine, for stronger tasting tea slide lever to the right. Serve iced tea directly from the pitcher that can also be stored in the refrigerator after brewing. A recipe book with 18 delicious recipes is included. $59.99 capresso.com

LUCYD LOUD GLASSES These glasses do more than just make you look cool. These streamlined optical bluetooth glasses are available in 10 eye-catching styles. Take phone calls, listen to music and more all through the new Lucyd LOUD Glasses. Your Summer Shades Just Went High Tech! What’s sleek, high tech, and has the power to shield your eyes from the sun while taking calls handsfree? It’s Lucyd LOUD--the first pair of Bluetooth-enabled sunglasses that give you the power to play without being a slave to your phone. These next level shades let you remotely chat, listen to music, and activate voice commands using bone conduction technology, an intuitive touchpad, and a handy built-in mic.

Unlike earbuds, you can listen to your phone calls, podcasts, and playlists while still being able to hear your environment. Plus, you’ll never have to deal with untangling cords or trying to keep uncomfortable buds in place.Choose from specialized lenses like Polarized, Blue Light Blocking, and more or get them filled with your own prescription. Prices start at $99 for polarized, UV-blocking sunglass and $134 for a prescription. lucyd.co

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HOT HOTELS

This Season's Hot Hotels

the dixon london, uk

This long-standing London Boutique hotel dating from 1905, originally served as the Tower Bridge Magistrates Court and is now making its name as a world-class hotel for in capturing the best of SE1, a local favorite known as a cultural postcode for creative entertainment and local art.

Named after John Dixon Butler, this charming property offers a wide range of tourism activities just steps outside the lobby doors with a variety of in-house amenities and excellent dining options that will leave you craving a cozy night in. With an authentic combination of preserving its historical roots as a courthouse, police station and even a jailhouse the unique stay has added a touch of modern design, becoming a timeless destination that is superior to all the rest.

Contemporary dĂŠcor marks every square inch of this 5-star hotel as guests enter a vibrant atmosphere upon entering the lobby entrance. A whimsical chandelier lights up the wooden walled-lobby as its friendly staff escorts guests to their room. From stepping into your spacious suite notice avant-garde imagery decorating elegantly designed spaces with top-of-the-line accommodations including a Feather King-Sized Bed, 24-Hour Room service, and a view overlooking stunning London that is genuinely insta-worthy! As you walk down your room hall notice the impressive marble bathroom with comfortable furnishings that allow guests to enjoy a first-rate spa-like experience just steps from leaving their bed. A private wet bar invites travelers to a toast for a vacation abroad while a private lounge area sits across a luxury bathroom providing an ideal spot for an afternoon read.

Whether you are looking for an elegant dining spot or a happening social hour, the hotel's two premier venues offer a plethora of signature cocktails and culinary bites that highlight the best of British fare. Grab breakfast, lunch or dinner at Provisioners, a contemporary eatery that combines classic menu options with fresh flavors that pay homage to local ingredients native to Europe. Located just blocks away from London Bridge, this trendy restaurant's atmosphere features elements of a designer's studio with bright colored furnishings and one-of-akind artwork. From home comfort favorites to seasonal menu options, every item is equally authentic in taste and presentation. After dinner head over to CourtRoom Bar, an old Magistrates courtroom that now offers a wide selection of revered spirits and sparkling sips. Take a seat at the marble bar, the former location of the judge's bench with original wood paneling that decorates the back wall. The gathering spot is filled with historical touches like mugshots of the criminals that came to pay justice with enthusiatic mixologists that will happily prepare your refreshment behind the bar, steps away from the courtroom's original jail cells.

The Dixon Hotel encompasses everything one would desire of a charming boutique in the heart of the city. From its stylish interiors to its colorful history, guests will marvel at its vibrant ambiance. Pour a cup of coffee, and get ready to explore some of the most awe-inspiring attractions of London, a distinctive area that has Winchester Palace, Shakespeare's Globe and Tooley street just around the corner.

urbanica the meridian hotel

Hot Hotels

miami beach, fl

Visionary Hoteliers Diego Colmenero and Charlie Porchetto two Argentinians born in Buenos Aires began their careers in the real estate business in their home country focusing on office and multifamily construction until one day the hotel bug bit. In 2005 they started construction on their first hotel in Argentina and the creation of Urbanica The Hotels had begun.

In 2016 their first project in the Miami Beach area was completed as they unveiled the opening of The Meridian Hotel. With their impeccable service and South American charm, they quickly rose to the top of the Trip Advisor ratings before too long; it was evident that The Meridian was here to stay. This affordable boutique hideaway with a mid-century design was making serious waves in the South Beach hotel scene in a relatively short amount of time.

Tourists from all over flocked to check out what all the hype was about, and it was quite simple to see the secret to their success.

Tucked away on a tree-lined avenue in South Beach's residential SoFi neighborhood this historic art-deco building has everything you could want for the ultimate Miami Beach stopover. The theme of less is more plays quite the contrary as the less done with perfection is what sets them apart from other big chain hotels. Offering one of a kind of service where everyone knows your name, the bartender memorizing your cocktail after only one encounter and the meticulously customized turn down service will make you want to extend your stay.

It's small plunge pool and lobby cafe are meeting places where savvy travelers gather together to not only discuss world travels but also the little hidden gems they have found while gallivanting throughout the streets of Miami Beach. The hotel makes the most of its limited service concept with the stylish Food Marchand serving up tasty treats by local purveyors including Panther Coffee and Zak the Baker, the owners of the hotel Diego and Charlie firmly believe in involving neighborhood businesses whenever possible. This concept of bringing in community businesses that have already put their time in to expand local brands should not come as a surprise if you know anyone from Argentina, family is first and the theme of spreading the love is a top priority.

The hotel is located 10-minutes to the beach which as you can imagine is quite the adventure walking the streets of South Beach with all the swanky bars, restaurants and shops that line the busy streets. If you are in a hurry to get to the beach or just want to get a bit more exercise you can borrow one of the hotel's complimentary beach cruisers that are available at the concierge desk.

Location, service, style and character all come together perfectly with all 71 nonsmoking rooms offering guests all the comforts of home yet with the feeling of a 5-star hotel. With only a small amount of rooms inclusive of immeasurable personality, grace and style it is not hard to see why Urbanica The Meridian Hotel is the talk of the town.

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Travel the World

HOT HOTELS

From Montenegro to Portugal discover your inner explorer with these travel spots we suggest you add to your bucket list ASAP.

Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

Cueva de Los Verdes in Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain

The Big Buddha Temple Koh Samui, Thailand LA TRAVEL 126 ENDLESS SUMMER 2016

Auckland, New Zealand

Silence Bay Sestri Levante, Italy

The Twelve Apostles Victoria, Australia

Lagos, Portugal

"Life is Beautiful for Those Who Take the Risk to Love and Take the Adventure to Enjoy Life" -Debasish Mridha

PUCHASE TICKETS AT LATRAVELMAGAZINE.COM/TOW

Retreat to the countryside. And let your senses wander.

Since 1923, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe has embraced the elegant country relaxation that Rancho Santa Fe was founded upon. Unwind in splendor with our luxurious accommodations and enhanced grounds. We welcome you to savor celebrity chef Casey Thompson’s new and innovative menu at our signature restaurant, Morada. Discover the serenity of The Spa at The Inn and experience a restoration and revival of The Inn’s warm and welcoming spirit with all your senses.

Come visit us at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, a Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa.

5951 Linea del Cielo, R ancho Santa Fe, CA theinnatrsf.com

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